Canada Still Has A 'Global Travel Advisory' In Place & Here's Exactly What That Means

Since March 2020, there have been so many changes to Canada’s travel restrictions, including a recently-updated advisory for non-essential travel outside of the country.

Back in December the federal government officially changed Canada’s international travel advisory to "Level 3," which means that Canadians should "avoid non-essential travel."

When this type of advisory is put into place, the feds say it means that "your safety and security could be at risk."

The update is in response to the Omicron variant, which has been designated a variant of concern by the World Health Organization.

The feds say that, as a result of Omicron, many international governments have implemented stricter travel restrictions and therefore "international transportation options may be limited."

"As a result, you may have difficulty returning to Canada, or may have to remain abroad for an indeterminate period," the government advisory warns.

It adds that local authorities could suddenly impose travel measures and update movement restrictions, like lockdowns, at any moment.

"In some countries, you may have limited access to timely and appropriate health care should you become ill," the notice reads.

The same advisory remained in effect throughout most of 2021, before it was lifted by officials in October.

While the advisory provides a clear recommendation from the government, it is guidance rather than a set rule.

This means Canadians and residents are permitted to leave the country if they want to — regardless of their reason why — as long as they follow public health recommendations in place at their departure location and destination.

The government says, "The decision to travel is yours alone. The Travel Advice and Advisories provide recommendations about safety and security conditions in destinations around the world to help you to make informed decisions."

It's worth noting that a number of countries around the world have put non-essential travel bans in place, which would prevent travellers from visiting for discretionary purposes, regardless of the rules at their departure point.

The feds urge anybody who does decide to travel to keep a watchful eye on Canada's travel regulations — which continue to be subject to change — and recommend consulting a health care professional "preferably at least 6 weeks before you travel."

As of December 21, Canada's travel rules are changing again to include updated COVID-19 testing requirements for those taking short trips outside of the country.

This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.