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COVID vaccine in Alberta: who qualifies this season

Alberta's free COVID-19 vaccine is for specific groups this season, not everyone. Here's who qualifies, how soon you can book after your last dose, and what happens if you're not on the list.

By Wessam Sakr, BScPharm, RPh

Last updated

Starting October 19, 2026, provincially funded COVID-19 vaccines are available in Alberta to certain groups. Booking opened October 5. For most people, you can book once it's been at least 3 months since your last COVID-19 dose.

Everything below comes from the Government of Alberta's respiratory virus season page, read on November 3, 2026. Programs change, so check it if you're reading this much later.

Who gets the COVID vaccine free in Alberta

Albertans 65 and older, and anyone 6 months and older who is:

  • Living in long-term care

    Or another congregate living setting.

  • Living with an underlying medical condition

    Including immune-compromising conditions.

  • Experiencing houselessness

    Listed alongside underlying medical conditions.

  • Pregnant

    Pregnant people are on this season's list.

  • First Nations, Inuit or Métis

    No matter where they live.

  • A health care worker or care provider

    In facilities and community settings.

  • A teacher eligible under the Back to School Act

    Ask your employer if you're not sure you qualify.

Where to get it

Age 12 and older
A community pharmacy is encouragedMany pharmacies take walk-ins. You can also book through Primary Care Alberta or call Health Link at 811.
Children 6 months to 11 years
Public health or community health centreOnly mRNA vaccines are available for eligible children under 12.
Not eligible, 12 and older
You can buy it at participating community pharmacies
Non-mRNA option
Limited Nuvaxovid for eligible people 12 and olderIt expires in December. Ask your provider about availability.

What about the flu shot and RSV?

The influenza vaccine is free for all Albertans 6 months and older. Albertans 5 and older can get it at participating community pharmacies.

If you're 70 or older, or in another eligible group, and haven't had an RSV vaccine before, it's free too, and you only need one dose. Our RSV vaccine page has the details.

Common questions

Is the COVID vaccine free in Alberta in 2026?

For eligible groups, yes: Albertans 65 and older, and people 6 months and older in long-term care, with underlying medical conditions, who are pregnant, First Nations, Inuit or Métis, health care workers, eligible teachers, or experiencing houselessness.

Can I get a COVID vaccine if I'm not eligible?

If you're 12 or older, you can buy it at participating community pharmacies.

How long after my last dose can I book?

For most people, at least 3 months after your last COVID-19 vaccine dose.

Where can I get a COVID vaccine near me in Calgary?

For ages 12 and older, at a community pharmacy such as Edgemont Family Pharmacy in NW Calgary. Children under 12 go to public health.

What this relates to