Justin Trudeau Is Urging Canadians To Cancel Their Upcoming Vacations Abroad

He says new restrictions could be implemented with no notice.
Managing Editor, Canada

The prime minister is urging Canadians to avoid all non-essential trips abroad right now, as he says Canada’s travel rules are subject to change with no notice at all.

During a press conference on Tuesday, January 19, he warned that taking vacations overseas is just too risky right now.

Editor's Choice: 9 Photos Of Melania Trump That Are A Sneak Peek Into Her Life Before Being First Lady

Speaking in French, per CTV News, Trudeau urged anyone who has booked a trip abroad to consider cancelling it ASAP.

He explained that going on vacation was not worth contracting COVID-19 or potentially getting stuck outside Canada and being unable to return home.

The PM confirmed that the federal government was monitoring new COVID-19 virus variants in different countries, like the U.K. and Brazil, and would be willing to impose new restrictions without any notice at all.

This would be in addition to Canada’s existing travel rules, which now require all incoming air passengers to provide a negative COVID-19 test prior to boarding.

The mandatory two-week quarantine period that all incoming travellers must adhere to also still applies.

While there is no outright travel ban in place, the federal government and public health officials continue to urge Canadians to avoid discretionary travel.

  • 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.

Canada Pension Plan payments for January 2026 go out soon and rates just increased

A little extra money is coming your way this month. 💰

The CRA has announced a bunch of changes that could impact your 2025 tax return

From updated tax rates to new credits & deductions, here's what's new for 2025. 📝

Zellers plans to open new stores across Canada and here's what the locations could be like

The iconic Canadian retailer is focusing on affordability and nostalgia!

Canada's spring forecast is out and says the weather will still be snowy in these places

Most of the country will get cooler-than-normal temperatures this spring. 👀

CSIS is hiring post-secondary students for these jobs that pay up to $34 an hour

You can work in finance, HR, engineering, communications, IT or other areas.

The best employers in Canada for 2026 were ranked and Ontario companies made the list

So many universities and local governments are top employers this year!

Canada's best employers for 2026 were revealed and these are the top companies to work for

Well-known employers like Microsoft, RBC, Costco, Apple, and Rogers made the ranking.

Ontario's spring forecast calls for snow and cooler temperatures in parts of the province

If you've been waiting for warm weather, you'll have to wait a bit longer!