Maple News reports that Canada will maintain its current restrictions on non-essential travel from the United States until at least December 21, 2020. The federal government confirmed the extension of the U.S.-Canada land border closure through a new Order in Council. The decision, announced by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Public Safety Minister Bill Blair, continues the travel limitations first implemented in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The extension prohibits American tourists, cross-border shoppers, and leisure travelers from entering Canada. Only individuals with exempt status or essential reasons for travel are permitted entry, and virtually all approved travelers must adhere to a mandatory 14-day quarantine upon arrival.
Those exempt from the restrictions include Canadian citizens, permanent residents, immediate family members, approved permanent residents traveling from the U.S., and valid work permit holders. Canada has also made some allowances for extended family members—such as grandparents, siblings, and long-term partners—so long as they commit to staying at least 15 days and meet entry criteria.
International students attending Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) with government-approved COVID-19 readiness plans are also allowed to enter. Earlier this month, the federal government published a guide to assist these students in preparing for travel during the pandemic.
In humanitarian cases, travelers may come to Canada for compassionate reasons, such as attending a funeral, caring for a critically ill relative, or visiting a loved one nearing end of life. These individuals may also apply for limited quarantine exemptions under special circumstances.
Certain provinces, including Alberta, are piloting programs to reduce quarantine periods by offering COVID-19 tests at the border. However, travelers still need an approved quarantine plan to enter, and final entry decisions rest with Canadian Border Services officers.
According to the Canada Border Services Agency, land travel into Canada dropped by 80% between November 9 and 15 compared to the same time last year. This significant decline is largely due to the reduction of non-commercial travel.
The government continues to prioritize public health guidance in making border decisions, and any future changes will depend on the pandemic’s evolving situation in both countries.