Restrictions On Non-Essential Travel Into Canada Have Now Been Extended Until 2021

This doesn't include travel from the U.S., though!
Managing Editor, Canada

As COVID-19 cases continue to climb, the federal government has extended Canada's restrictions on non-essential travel until early 2021.

In a notice shared on Sunday, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Bill Blair and Health Minister Patty Hajdu confirmed that restrictions on international travellers would be extended until January 2021.

This means visitors who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents will not be allowed to enter the country if their purpose of travel is deemed non-essential.

The government statement also reiterated that the Canada-U.S. border will remain closed to discretionary travel until at least December 21, 2020.

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These emergency orders were originally introduced back in March, during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada.

The rules prohibited the majority of foreign nationals from entering the country for discretionary purposes, although there are a number of exceptions.

Like the Canada-U.S. border restrictions, the international travel ban continues to be extended and updated.

This comes as the new rules for incoming travellers kicked-off last Saturday, with huge fines for anybody who flouts the conditions.

Restrictions continue to be extended as Canada’s COVID-19 case-count continues to climb. In the last month alone, the number of active cases has more than doubled.

*This article's cover image is for illustrative purposes only.

  • Managing Editor

    Helena Hanson (she/her) is the Managing Editor of Canada for Narcity and MTL Blog, where she brings her expertise in dreamy, aspirational travel journalism to life. A first-class graduate of Cardiff University's School of Journalism, Helena has a passion for inspiring readers to discover the magic in their own backyards. Originally from the U.K., Helena has spent years uncovering hidden gems and must-see destinations across countries like Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Indonesia, Japan, and more. Having lived in both Canada and Australia, she's become a seasoned expert in off-the-beaten-path adventures and bucket-list experiences that don't break the bank. Whether she's writing about things to do in Ottawa, Montreal, or her favourite spot—Disney World—Helena hopes to leave readers dreaming of their next adventure.

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