Maple News reports that Canada is officially lifting its travel ban on 10 African countries, effective December 18 at 11:59 p.m., as announced by Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos on December 17. The policy shift arrives just three weeks after the ban was initially introduced to curb the spread of the Omicron variant of COVID-19.
The travel restrictions were originally implemented on November 26, targeting seven countries in southern Africa. Within days, the list expanded to include South Africa, Mozambique, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Eswatini, Namibia, Nigeria, Malawi, and Egypt. The policy was initially set to remain in place until January 31, 2022.
According to the Canadian government, the original decision stemmed from a spike in COVID-19 positive cases linked to travellers from those regions. However, widespread criticism quickly followed, particularly from African leaders, public health experts, and international organizations, who denounced the focus on Africa despite Omicron’s presence in over 40 other countries at the time.
The policy sparked global outrage, with critics dubbing it a form of “travel apartheid.” The World Health Organization’s Director-General called the bans disappointing, and health policy advocates within Canada urged the federal government to pivot toward a more equitable, science-based response.
Further complicating travel, Canada required travellers from those African nations—if allowed to enter—to first obtain a negative COVID-19 test from a third country. This requirement, unique among G7 nations, was described by many as burdensome and nearly impossible to comply with. While this rule was temporarily suspended for South Africa, its broader implementation faced mounting legal and ethical scrutiny.
Acknowledging the growing concerns and limited effectiveness of the travel restrictions, Canada also announced the reintroduction of mandatory pre-arrival COVID-19 testing for all international travellers, regardless of which country they are arriving from. Starting December 21, even fully vaccinated Canadians returning from short trips abroad will need to present a negative test before re-entry.
Canadian public health officials themselves expressed skepticism about the continued necessity of the ban. When questioned in mid-December, one of Canada’s top doctors admitted there was “no clear rationale” for the maintained restrictions, while another urged the federal government to reassess its approach.
This policy reversal marks a significant turning point in Canada’s international COVID-19 strategy. While many have welcomed the move, advocates stress the importance of global vaccine equity and evidence-based border control measures as Canada continues to adapt to the evolving pandemic landscape.