Maple News reports that Canada is extending its ban on non-essential international travel until at least January 21, 2021, as the country continues its efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19. The decision, announced by Public Safety Minister Bill Blair, aligns Canada’s non-U.S. travel restrictions with the anticipated extension of restrictions for U.S. travellers, which are currently in effect until December 21.
Under these continued measures, foreign nationals entering Canada for reasons such as tourism, recreation, or leisure will be turned away at the border. The government has emphasized that its priority is preserving public health while allowing for essential travel and trade.
Exemptions remain in place for several groups, including Canadian citizens (and dual citizens), permanent residents, approved permanent residence applicants, some temporary foreign workers, international students, protected persons, and immediate or extended family members of Canadian citizens. Compassionate exemptions also apply to individuals travelling for urgent personal reasons, such as visiting critically ill relatives, providing medical support, or attending funerals.
Canada first implemented these border restrictions on March 18, 2020. Since then, they have been reviewed and extended monthly. In recent months, the government has expanded exemptions to include some international students and extended family members, reflecting a more nuanced approach based on public health data and evolving circumstances.
Additionally, the federal government is creating a framework to allow high-performance amateur sports organizations to request permission to host international single sport events. Applications must demonstrate strong regional government support and detailed health and safety plans.
Travellers entering Canada under compassionate grounds may apply for a limited quarantine exemption, allowing them to visit loved ones or attend significant life events with certain protocols in place, subject to approval.
As pandemic response strategies evolve, Canada continues to strike a balance between public safety and maintaining essential movement. More updates are expected in the coming weeks as officials monitor the global health situation.