Maple News reports that Canada is extending its international travel restrictions for non-U.S. arrivals until at least February 21, 2021, as part of continued efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19. The extension was officially announced by Public Safety Minister Bill Blair, underscoring the Canadian government’s commitment to safeguarding public health while preserving essential international trade.
“Our government will never hesitate to take strong action to protect Canadians while maintaining vital trade relationships,” Blair stated via social media. This announcement follows an earlier extension of similar restrictions at the Canada-U.S. border, which has been closed to non-essential travel since March 2020.
The current measures prohibit most discretionary or non-essential travel into the country, though Canadian citizens and permanent residents are still permitted to return. Additionally, exemptions remain in place for immediate and extended family members, among others, allowing them entry under specific conditions.
To enhance safety protocols, all international air travelers aged five or older are required to present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test completed within 72 hours prior to departure for Canada. This requirement has been enforced since January 7, 2021, and remains mandatory regardless of the traveler’s citizenship or visa status.
Importantly, a negative test result does not exempt travelers from a mandatory 14-day quarantine. Each traveler must present a quarantine plan upon arrival, detailing their isolation arrangements. Canadian authorities take quarantine compliance seriously, with possible penalties including fines and imprisonment for violations.
In addition, use of the ArriveCAN app is mandatory for all incoming travelers. The app supports daily health reporting, facilitates contact tracing, and ensures that quarantine compliance data can be easily shared with provincial and territorial health officials.
As the global pandemic persists, Canada continues to adapt its border policies in response to public health risks. International students, foreign workers, and immigration hopefuls are advised to monitor updates and assess eligibility under current exemptions.
Maple News will continue to provide accurate and up-to-date information for those navigating Canadian immigration and travel regulations during the pandemic.