COVID-19: Travel restrictions and exemptions

April 7, 2020 – Do you know about the newly imposed travel restrictions and associated exemptions applicable to foreign nationals?

Due to the current global situation, the federal government announced a series of restrictions affecting travellers who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

On March 26, an Order in Council has been made, restricting non-essential cross border traveling for foreign nationals. This order, initially in effect until June 30, 2020, has been extended until July 31, 2020.*

Certain exemptions are applicable to, for example:

• Immediate family member of a Canadian citizen or of a permanent;
• Holder of a valid work permit or a study permit;
• Person whose work permit application was approved, but who has not yet been issued the permit;
• Individual who will provide an essential service while in Canada or will work in a critical industry.

However, a 14-day isolation period upon arrival in Canada is mandatory for everyone entering the country, except individuals who provide essential services and truck drivers regularly crossing the border. An advisory was also issued against all non-essential travel outside of Canada until further notice.

We strongly recommend seeking legal advice before traveling to Canada to avoid any issues at the border. If you have any questions about these measures, we invite you to communicate with our immigration team.

* Article updated on June 30, 2020