Maple News reports that the Canadian government has granted a special exemption to allow National Hockey League (NHL) teams to travel across the U.S.-Canada border for the final two rounds of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The decision, announced by Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino, comes under a “national interest” exemption that modifies some of the country’s pandemic-related travel restrictions.
Under the exemption, NHL teams may move between Canada and the United States using private aircraft only. Players and essential team personnel entering Canada from the U.S. will be required to undergo extensive health protocols, including pre-departure and on-arrival COVID-19 tests, as well as daily testing during their stay.
To minimize public contact, NHL players and staff will be housed in a modified quarantine ‘bubble’—restricted to team hotels and arenas. They are prohibited from using public facilities and must avoid interaction with the general population.
This measure enables U.S.-based teams to enter Canada and vice versa, permitting the semi-finals and finals of the Stanley Cup to proceed with in-person, cross-border competition. The modified rules were approved following consultations with health authorities at all levels of government.
The exemption becomes especially timely as Canadian teams approach the final rounds. If the Montreal Canadiens win against the Winnipeg Jets on June 7, they will advance as the sole Canadian team in the semi-finals, necessitating cross-border play.
This is not the first such exemption Canada has granted the NHL. In December 2020, players and staff were allowed to return to Canada for training camp with reduced quarantine requirements, also justified on national interest grounds.
The announcement comes amid growing speculation that Canada may begin easing broader travel restrictions with the United States. Ottawa’s current ban on non-essential U.S. travel is set to expire on June 21. Discussions are ongoing about a phased reopening of the border, and American lawmakers are actively pushing for rapid changes.
While public safety remains the federal government’s top priority, the NHL exemption reflects Canada’s willingness to accommodate major international events under strict health and safety conditions.