Effective Wednesday, March 18th, the Prime Minister has announced entry to Canada will be barred for all travelers who are not Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or Americans. This extraordinary new measure is being introduced to stop the spread of COVID-19. Exceptions to the travel ban include the following:
Immediate family members of permanent residents and citizens; U.S. citizens (for the time being); Air crew, diplomats, and those providing “essential services” [it has not yet been made clear who will qualify under this exemption]
Pursuant to the government announcement, the travel ban will take effect on March 18, 2020 – pending official confirmation of the time. Accordingly, we recommend entering Canada by March 17, 2020, subject to all usual requirements. If you are eligible for re-entry, it is recommended you return to Canada as soon as possible.
In addition, no one who is displaying symptoms associated with COVID-19 will be permitted to board a flight to Canada regardless of citizenship or legal status. Air operators will be required to complete a basic health assessment of every passenger based on guidelines from the Public Health Agency of Canada.
If you are currently in Canada, we advise against all non-essential travel outside of the country. Please note that all foreign nationals in Canada must maintain valid temporary status.
An official written policy has not yet published; we are in contact with government officials and will advise as soon as more information is available.
Due to the exceptional and fluid circumstances arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, information will be updated as soon as possible. We direct you to government resources for a fulsome and up-to-date account of the current situation.
