“I get that the COVID rules need to adapt to what's happening on the ground, but man, they change often. It’s tough to find up-to-date, reliable information on what's allowed and what's not."
– Hugo, Vancouver, BC
The coronavirus outbreak has dramatically impacted so much about our lives. We’re here to help with answers to common legal questions on public health restrictions, travel, vaccines, masks, work, home, money, consumer, wills, business, and courts.
Updated May 9, 2022 at 9 am PT. We're updating this page regularly as developments unfold.
Public health restrictions
What restrictions are in place right now?
What’s the latest with restaurants and bars?
Are gyms open again? What about sports?
What about my kids’ activities?
Can I go to my place of worship?
Travel
Can I travel within BC?
Can I travel between provinces?
How does travel into Canada work?
Vaccines
What’s the latest with the vaccine card requirement?
Can my employer say I have to get a vaccine in order to work?
Several people I work with aren’t vaccinated. Can I insist on being able to work remotely?
How do I get a vaccine card?
I don’t have a smartphone. How can I access the vaccine card?
Masks
Do I still have to wear a mask?
Work
“After being laid off when the pandemic first hit, I’m happy to be getting a full pay cheque again. But it still doesn’t feel like my workplace is safe. Is there anything I can do if I feel uncomfortable?"
– Joseph, Victoria, BC
Can I take time off work to get the COVID-19 vaccine?
Can I refuse to work during the pandemic?
Does a workplace need to have a COVID-19 safety plan?
Can my employer just tell me not to come in?
But, will I get paid?
Am I eligible for financial aid?
I was told my layoff was just temporary. Is that allowed?
My workplace cut my salary in half. Can they do this?
I’m feeling ill. Can I take time off work and keep my job?
Will I get paid when I take a sick day?
I’m self-employed, but now I’m sick and can’t work at all. What are my options?
Will my job be there when I get back?
Can my employer ask me if I have COVID-19?
Home
"My landlord sold their condo, and I was supposed to move out at the end of next month. But now, I’m self-isolating with a bad cough. I don’t think it’s responsible for me to move right now. I’m not sure who I can even get to help me move. I’m in a real bind here."
– Priya, Richmond, BC
I won’t be able to make my next rent. Now what?
Can I still get evicted?
Do I have to tell my landlord if I’ve tested positive for COVID-19?
What if I can’t make my mortgage payments?
What are we doing for the most vulnerable members in our community?
Money
“This pandemic made my work situation precarious. And money is tight now. With groceries, rent, loan payments, and so many other pressures, it’s hard for me to prioritize what to pay first."
– Morgan, Vancouver, BC
I’ve heard it’s possible to defer some bills?
I may have to withdraw money on my credit card. What do I need to know?
Is there relief to help low-income people?
What about supports for students, and student loans?
What are the deadlines for income tax during this time?
Do I have to report recovery benefits when I’m doing my taxes?
Consumer
“I got a call from the 'Canada Health Authority' telling me I tested positive for COVID-19. They followed up with a text message saying I was eligible for government benefits. They asked for my social insurance number and personal health number, to 'confirm my identity', as well as my credit card, to process my benefit payments. It sounded so official, but it must have been a scam. I've never been tested for COVID-19."
– Jasper, Golden, BC
I’ve heard there are scams related to COVID-19. Is this true?
I was supposed to take a flight, but may have to cancel or postpone. What are my rights?
If I can’t sign a contract in person, what are my options?
Wills
“With the pandemic scare still vivid, writing a will has moved from my should-do list to a top priority. I'm a childcare worker. When you’re caring for little ones — you hold them, you feed them — it’s impossible to practise physical distancing. I’m proud to do my part. But going to work has been a risk to my health and my family’s, so I’m not taking any more chances when it comes to my final wishes.”
– Priya, North Vancouver, BC
I don’t want to meet with anyone in person right now. Can I still prepare a will?
I’m a frontline healthcare worker. What should I consider when writing up my will?
Can I still apply for a grant of probate or administration right now?
If I don’t want to meet with anyone in person right now, can I still prepare a power of attorney?
I heard it’s a good idea to have a representation agreement. What are my options for making one while social distancing?
Business
“I run a small print shop over in East Vancouver. I’ve had to lay off a few employees. I’m still open, but just barely keeping the lights on. One of my biggest clients owes me a bunch of money, but now says they won’t pay me this month."
– Sydney, Vancouver, BC
I’ve heard there’s government help available for business owners?
I’m a small business owner. A client has refused to pay me, using coronavirus as their reason. Can they do this?
Courts
“I’m confused as to whether in my court case I have extra time to file a claim or counterclaim."
– Rae, Coquitlam, BC