Maple News reports that Canada has introduced a series of updated travel measures to control the spread of the Omicron COVID-19 variant. These changes, which affect both foreign nationals and Canadian citizens, are aimed at minimizing the risk of new infections entering the country.
Effective immediately, foreign nationals who have visited any of the following ten African nations within the previous 14 days are barred from entering Canada: Botswana, Egypt, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. This temporary travel ban is part of a broader effort to mitigate the threat posed by the Omicron variant, which was first identified in southern Africa.
Canadian citizens and permanent residents returning from these restricted countries are still allowed to enter Canada, but under strict conditions. They must secure a negative COVID-19 test from a third country—not from the country they departed—before boarding a flight to Canada. However, as a temporary exception, testing is currently permitted in South Africa.
These restrictions will remain in place until at least January 31, 2022, under an official Order in Council. These government orders are reviewed regularly based on public health data and emerging information.
In addition to country-specific bans, Canada has reinstated mandatory on-arrival testing and quarantine measures for all international travellers, excluding those arriving directly from the United States. Regardless of vaccination status, travellers entering Canada must take a PCR test upon arrival and quarantine at home until a negative result is received.
Transport Minister Omar Alghabra emphasized the government’s continued commitment to protecting public health and shared visual guidelines outlining the new entry requirements. These measures are in addition to the existing requirement for a negative COVID-19 molecular test taken within 72 hours prior to travel.
Before making travel plans, the government encourages all travellers to use an online screening tool to determine their eligibility to enter Canada. It’s important to remember that this tool does not guarantee entry—final decisions rest with Canadian border agents.
Regardless of exemption or vaccination status, incoming travellers must still have a 14-day quarantine plan in place. Border officials may require them to isolate, particularly if they develop symptoms or test positive upon arrival.
Maple News will continue to monitor changes to Canada’s international travel policies as public health conditions evolve.