Canada is extending travel restrictions on incoming foreign travellers for another month as coronavirus continues to pose a threat to public safety.
Travel restrictions are now being extended until September 30. This is Canada’s third time extending the travel restrictions that were originally put in place from March 18 until June 30. The federal government has been reviewing the coronavirus situation month-by-month and adjusting travel policies accordingly.
In addition, the mandatory quarantine order that was in effect since March has also been extended. Exempt travellers will have to carry out a self-isolation period of 14 days if they are allowed into Canada.
Who can come to Canada?
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) the following groups of people are exempt from travel restrictions:
- Canadian citizens;
- Permanent residents;
- Some people who have been approved for Canadian permanent residence;
- Some temporary foreign workers;
- Some international students; and
- Immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents (spouses or common-law partners, dependent children, dependent children of dependent children, parent or step-parent, guardian or tutor).
- The full list of exempt individuals is available here.
Canada is still accepting immigrants
Canada continues to welcome immigrants who support the labour market and aid in economic recovery. This past month Canada created a pathway to permanent residence for asylum-seekers working in healthcare.
IRCC also introduced a temporary policy where people on visitor status who had Canadian job offers could apply for a work permit without having to leave the country.
Immigration programs are also continuing to be active, inviting immigration candidates to take the next steps towards permanent residence.