PM agrees to lift pandemic border measures, source says

Masking requirement on planes and trains still to be discussed by cabinet.

canada travel restrictions lifted

Social Sharing

The federal government has decided to drop the vaccination requirement for people entering Canada, end random COVID-19 testing at airports and make the use of the ArriveCan app optional by the end of this month, a senior government source told CBC News.

Earlier this week, sources told CBC that Ottawa was leaning toward ending the measures but a final decision hadn't been made because it was awaiting the approval of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

The current COVID-19 Emergency Order-in-Council relating to border measures was set to expire on Sept. 30. The government had the option of extending the measures. The government is expected to make an official announcement on Monday, the source said.

The official spoke to CBC on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to speak publicly on the matter.

The government has yet to decide if they will end the current masking requirements for passengers on planes and trains. That topic will be debated in cabinet later on Thursday.

  • The end of random border testing can't come soon enough for many travellers
  • Border cities 'left behind' from pandemic recovery, say leaders seeking end to restrictions

Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino wouldn't confirm that a decision had been made when speaking with reporters on Thursday evening. He said the government would follow the advice of public health experts.

On Tuesday, a  group of MPs and border-city mayors published an open letter to Trudeau and U.S. President Joe Biden asking them to end the "unnecessary" rules at the border, which they say would allow border communities to recover economically from the pandemic.

"When COVID-19 was at its peak and border measures were effective at slowing transmission rates, we did our part to keep Canadians and Americans safe," the letter states. "Now, we have been left behind in the recovery effort as both countries have largely returned to normal daily life."

Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati, one of those who signed the letter, said he was grateful for the government's decision but called it "long overdue."

"I would like to see a grand re-opening of Canada event, with a massive ribbon cutting," Diodati said in a statement to CBC.

A man in a suit jacket looks off camera.

A number of travellers and tourism operators have been calling for an end to the pandemic measures, especially random testing .

The Tourism Industry Association of Canada said it was "heartened" by the news but added the government should still lift the masking requirement for air travellers.

"We have been unequivocal in calling on the federal government to lift all remaining COVID-19 restrictions on travel," a statement from the organization said.

A spokesperson for the Frontier Duty Free Association, which represents dozens of private duty-free stores across the country, said the association was "thrilled" to learn the restrictions would be lifted.

"We can now get on the long road to recovery and we are very much looking forward to it after these very difficult times," the statement said.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

canada travel restrictions lifted

CBC Journalist

Darren Major is a senior writer for CBC's Parliamentary Bureau. He can be reached via email at [email protected].

With files from Philip Ling

Related Stories

Add some “good” to your morning and evening.

Your weekly guide to what you need to know about federal politics and the minority Liberal government. Get the latest news and sharp analysis delivered to your inbox every Sunday morning.

Watch CBS News

Canada to remove all COVID-19 restrictions for travelers

By Emily Mae Czachor

September 27, 2022 / 11:45 AM EDT / CBS News

Canada will lift all remaining COVID-19 restrictions for international and domestic travelers starting Oct. 1, officials announced this week. 

The regulatory changes come 2 1/2 years after Canada, like many other countries, first implemented requirements for people entering the country and traveling within it by public transport. Its policies included mask mandates, random testing and vaccination requirements, and were some of the strictest in the world. 

While Canada has loosened some COVID-19 requirements for entry into the country since the pandemic began, a number of others have remained in place for both air and rail travelers. Those will formally end on Saturday, the Public Health Agency of Canada said in a news release , which noted that the upcoming shift includes the removal of all entry restrictions, in addition to testing, quarantine and isolation requirements for anyone arriving in Canada, regardless of citizenship status.

This means that travelers will no longer have to submit mandatory health information through  ArriveCAN  in order to enter the country, the health agency said. Travelers will not be required to provide proof of vaccination or undergo COVID-19 testing prior to or upon arrival, and Canada's previous policies for quarantine, isolation and symptom monitoring of travelers will be lifted as well. 

Update: Effective October 1st, we’re removing COVID-19 border and travel measures. We’ll continue to follow the latest available science and do whatever is necessary to protect your health. Stay protected by keeping your vaccinations up to date. More here: https://t.co/F8q1lb8yGF — Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) September 26, 2022

Similar restrictions will be lifted for Canadian cruises, although health officials said that certain guidelines will remain in place to protect passengers and crew members. Ongoing restrictions for cruise travel will be in line with U.S. policies , according to the agency's announcement.

The upcoming changes to Canada's COVID-19 rules also apply to mask mandates, which will no longer be in effect for people traveling on planes or trains. However, health officials said that continuing to wear face masks on both forms of transportation is still "strongly recommended" and people should refrain from traveling entirely if they have symptoms of COVID-19.

Canadian health officials explained that the government's decision to end travel restrictions was informed by the country's high vaccination rates and lower incidences of hospitalizations and deaths due to COVID-19.

"Thanks largely to Canadians who have rolled up their sleeves to get vaccinated, we have reached the point where we can safely lift the sanitary measures at the border," said Canadian Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos in a statement included with the health agency's announcement. "However, we expect COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses will continue to circulate over the cold months, so I encourage everyone to stay up-to-date with their COVID-19 vaccination, including booster doses and exercise individual public health measures."

Emily Mae Czachor is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com. She covers breaking news, often focusing on crime and extreme weather. Emily Mae has previously written for outlets including the Los Angeles Times, BuzzFeed and Newsweek.

More from CBS News

Why does Canada have so many wildfires?

Flash floods in northern Afghanistan killed more than 300 people, U.N. says

Putin appoints Shoigu as secretary of Russia's national security council

EGOT Winner Jennifer Hudson talks new season of talk show

We've detected unusual activity from your computer network

To continue, please click the box below to let us know you're not a robot.

Why did this happen?

Please make sure your browser supports JavaScript and cookies and that you are not blocking them from loading. For more information you can review our Terms of Service and Cookie Policy .

For inquiries related to this message please contact our support team and provide the reference ID below.

  • Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Canada Letter

A Border Reopening, at Least One Way, and Some Travel Tips

Canada said this week that most restrictions on fully vaccinated American travelers will be lifted in early August. But the U.S. extended its border closure.

Ian Austen

By Ian Austen

Shortly after the rate of vaccinated people in Canada surpassed the rate in the United States, it was announced that the Canadian border would open next month for all fully vaccinated Americans, not just those with an essential reason to travel.

canada travel restrictions lifted

But as they say in ads, conditions still apply. There will still be testing requirements, as my colleague Vjosa Isai reported this week , but the federal government is dropping the 14-day quarantine requirement, which made it impossible for many Americans to visit family members in Canada . It will also drop the mandate for mandatory airport hotel stay for air travelers.

[ Read: Canada will reopen its border with the U.S. ]

For now, at least, the United States isn’t reciprocating: Its land borders with Canada and Mexico will remain closed until at least Aug. 21. (Though a never fully explained loophole that enables Canadians to enter for any reason, including sunny winter holidays, remains in effect. The restrictions also do not apply to truck drivers, railway crews or ship crews.)

[Read: The U.S. reaffirms its land border restrictions as Canada relaxes its own. ]

Along with all of this, the Toronto Blue Jays have been allowed to end their exile in the United States, James Wagner reports. And for Canada’s beleaguered tourism industry, there’s now hope that Americans fed up with hanging around their houses since March of last year will pick Canada as the destination for their first escape.

In The Times’ Frugal Traveler column, Elaine Glusac makes the case to Americans that a hop up to Canada can enable them to tour the world with much less jet lag or from the comfort of their family car.

[Read: See the World, in Canada ]

Unless you’re a relative newcomer to Canada, you’ll likely know most of the destinations mentioned in her article, such as Quebec City. It clearly wasn’t intended for Canadians, but you may want to forward it to friends or family who live outside of the country.

And before I take a break, I’m going to offer a little travel tip. The relaxation of restrictions means that some of you may find yourself, like I did while on assignment a month ago, driving the Trans-Canada Highway in southern Alberta. When you reach Medicine Hat, there is, of course, no missing the world’s tallest teepee. But this time I ventured further into town to visit the museum and art studio at the former Medalta Potteries factory.

Before Canada signed its first trade agreement with the United States in the 1980s, it was generally the case that factories in the east, particularly in Ontario and Quebec, manufactured most products consumed by Western Canada, which in turn, shipped agricultural products and natural resources the other direction.

But when it came to ceramics, Medicine Hat was the exception. It still calls itself The Gas City after its abundant natural resource. And Mike Onieu, the executive director of The Friends of Medalta Society, which runs the Medalta museum, told me that the combination of abundant natural gas, access to water and clay nearby in southern Saskatchewan meant that Medicine Hat was once home to several pottery factories. The largest of them, Medalta and Hycroft China, shipped not only to Canada but around the world.

If you don’t have a piece of Medalta pottery somewhere in your house, the chances are good that you’ve seen examples at garage sales.

“It was meat and potatoes,” Mr. Onieu said. “Today we try to make everything look very important, but this was just basic stuff.”

It wasn’t all plates and bowls, however. Medicine Hat’s factories once churned out ashtrays shaped like cowboy hats or tiny maps of Alberta, water reservoirs for chickens and decorative plates used as rodeo prizes.

(My wife informs me that I may be the only person on earth who never independently figured out that the Medalta name is a contraction and combination of Medicine Hat and “Alta,” the old postal abbreviation for Alberta.)

Efforts to turn the Medalta plant into a museum stretch back to at least the 1970s and its building is part of a large complex of former industrial buildings that now form a clay district. What finally opened in 2002 was a professionally designed and curated museum, gallery and ceramic arts facility.

Its spaces include a restored beehive kiln, named for its shape, lined with crocks, most sized by the gallon, and water coolers once made there.

Medalta and Hycroft production have also resumed using the original molds and tools, if on a much smaller scale and with modern kilns.

There were only 45 minutes left before closing when I arrived. And that wasn’t nearly enough time to take in the informative and often amusing exhibits.

One bit of advice if you do decide to make Medalta your break from the Trans-Canada. Its location is somewhat obscure depending on where you exit the highway. I made a mistake by following the city’s direction signs to the museum rather than entering the address into my phone’s navigation app. Not only were the signs sometimes difficult to spot, they take you on a roundabout tour, which admittedly was actually scenic, rather than directly to the site.

While I’m off, the newsletter will be in the able hands of Vjosa Isai, who recently became our news assistant in Canada.

Trans Canada

Writer Alanna Mitchell and photographer Alana Paterson tell the story of the Northern Lights Wildlife Shelter, near Smithers, British Columbia. It’s the only place in the Western Hemisphere that raises orphan grizzly bears until they are mature enough to be released back to the wild.

After becoming frustrated by the lack of action by federal government to resettle Afghans who worked for Canada in Afghanistan, a group of Canadian military veterans used their own money, time and connections to get them into safer parts of Afghanistan. An update: on Friday, the government finally announced a plan.

The continued wildfires led British Columbia to declare a state of emergency this week.

Hope Muir, who was recently named as the next artistic director of the National Ballet of Canada, spoke with Roslyn Sulcas about her vision for diversity, accessibility and transparency in dance.

SUMMER GAME TIME

Connect the dots to unveil the hidden picture in Vertex . All of The Times’s games can be found here.

A native of Windsor, Ontario, Ian Austen was educated in Toronto, lives in Ottawa and has reported about Canada for The New York Times for the past 16 years. Follow him on Twitter at @ianrausten.

How are we doing? We’re eager to have your thoughts about this newsletter and events in Canada in general. Please send them to [email protected] .

Like this email? Forward it to your friends, and let them know they can sign up here .

A native of Windsor, Ontario, Ian Austen was educated in Toronto and currently lives in Ottawa. He has reported for The Times about Canada for more than a decade. More about Ian Austen

  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

Travel advice and advisories by destination

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

The Government of Canada’s official source of travel information and advice, the Travel Advice and Advisories help you to make informed decisions and travel safely while you are outside Canada. Check the page for your destination often, because safety and security conditions may change. See Travel Advice and Advisories – FAQ for more information.

Where are you going?

Take normal security precautions

Exercise a high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Travel advice from other countries

Travel advice is also provided by the governments of Australia , New Zealand , the United Kingdom and the United States .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

canada travel restrictions lifted

Canada's COVID-19 travel restrictions: What changed on June 20 and what stays in place

Amid mounting pressure on the Canadian government to address long delays and wait times at airports, federal ministers have announced further easing of some COVID-19 travel restrictions.

But while the feds are lifting vaccine requirements for some travellers, other health measures at the border remain in place. Here's a guide to the current COVID-19 rules around travel as well as what's changing.

VACCINE MANDATES

As of June 20 , domestic and international outbound travellers no longer have to provide proof of vaccination when travelling within and to Canada by plane or train. However, vaccination against COVID-19 is still required for passengers and crew members on cruise ships.

  • Newsletter sign-up: Get The COVID-19 Brief sent to your inbox

Foreign nationals coming to Canada are still required to be vaccinated unless they meet one of the criteria for exemption.

If you're travelling internationally, be sure to check the COVID-19 travel rules for your destination. While Transport Canada has lifted its vaccine mandate, countries including the United States and Australia still require foreign tourists to present proof of vaccination.

TESTING, QUARANTINING FOR UNVACCINATED TRAVELLERS

Unvaccinated Canadian citizens and permanent residents returning to Canada are still subject to quarantine and testing requirements.

If you're an unvaccinated traveller returning to Canada, you're required to provide proof of a negative molecular test, such as a PCR test taken within 72 hours of your scheduled flight or land entry into Canada. Unvaccinated travellers can also show proof of a negative antigen test taken the previous day, but the test has to be either administered or observed by a pharmacy, lab, health-care entity or telehealth service.

Unvaccinated travellers will also be subject to a COVID-19 test on arrival. The test may be done on-site at an airport or travellers may be given a test kit to complete at home.

Upon arrival, unvaccinated travellers must also quarantine for 14 days and take another COVID-19 test on day 8 of quarantine.

RANDOM COVID-19 TESTING

Transport Canada has temporarily suspended mandatory random COVID-19 testing for incoming international travellers at airports until June 30.

Unvaccinated travellers are still subject to on-site arrival testing. But starting July 1, all testing, including for unvaccinated travellers, will be performed off-site.

While the U.S. dropped the in-flight mask mandate in April, face masks are still mandatory aboard all flights and interprovincial trains in Canada.

ARRIVECAN APP

The Canadian government will continue to require inbound travellers to enter their health information, quarantine plan and proof of vaccination through the ArriveCAN app . Using the app is mandatory, regardless of citizenship, and it must be completed within 72 hours of your scheduled flight or arrival at a land border.

If you don't have a smartphone, you can use the web browser version of ArriveCAN to enter your location.

CTVNews.ca Top Stories

canada travel restrictions lifted

Air quality alerts issued as wildfire smoke spreads east from Western Canada

Wildfires have led Environment Canada to issue air quality advisories for parts of B.C., Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories, as forecasters warn the smoke could drift farther east.

Steal a car, lose your driver's licence under new Ontario proposal

Repeat car thieves may face lengthy licence bans under proposed changes to Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act.

Ellen DeGeneres addresses the 'hurtful' end of her talk show in new stand-up set

Ellen DeGeneres is reflecting on how her talk show came to an end in her newest Netflix special, 'Ellen's Last Stand ... Up Tour.'

When you have a moment's notice to evacuate, what do you take?

Knowing what to have at home, or take with you for an evacuation, can be useful and even life-saving.

LIVE UPDATES | Star witness returning to the stand for more testimony at Trump's at hush money trial

Donald Trump’s fixer-turned-foe returns to the witness stand Tuesday for a bruising round of questioning from the former president’s lawyers.

B.C. brings in law on name changes on day that child killer's new identity revealed

The BC NDP have tabled legislation aimed at stopping people who have committed certain heinous acts from changing their names.

Regulated area for invasive box tree moth expanded to parts of the Maritimes

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has added much of the Maritimes to a regulated area for an invasive species.

Risks of handcuffing someone facedown long known; people die when police training fails to keep up

For decades, police across the United States have been warned that the common tactic of handcuffing someone facedown could turn deadly if officers pin them on the ground with too much pressure or for too long.

A healthy lifestyle can mitigate genetic risk for early death by 62%, study suggests

Even if your genetics put you at greater risk for early death, a healthy lifestyle could help you significantly combat it, according to a new study.

canada travel restrictions lifted

Wildfire burning near Fort Nelson, B.C., continues to rapidly grow

The wildfire burning near Fort Nelson continues to grow rapidly.

canada travel restrictions lifted

Sex assault case of former Canada world junior hockey players back in court today

The sexual assault case of five former members of Canada's world junior hockey team is due back in a London, Ont., court today.

Trial of Winnipeg serial killer expected to hear testimony from DNA expert

The Winnipeg trial of admitted serial killer Jeremy Skibicki is expected to continue today with testimony from a DNA expert.

McGill University encampment: judge expected to deliver injunction decision Tuesday

Pro-Palestinian protesters at McGill University have become 'occupiers' living in a fortified and barricaded mini-village, a lawyer for the Montreal school argued on Monday as he asked for an injunction to dismantle the more than two-week-old encampment on its downtown campus.

Curbing domestic violence takes staff, and there aren't enough, says N.L. director

As Newfoundland and Labrador's justice minister exchanges letters with his federal counterpart about legal reforms that would curb intimate partner violence, the head of a women's centre in the province says what's needed is much simpler: money.

canada travel restrictions lifted

3 men charged in Whitey Bulger's 2018 prison killing have plea deals, prosecutors say

Three men charged in the 2018 prison killing of notorious Boston gangster James 'Whitey' Bulger have reached plea deals with prosecutors, according to court papers filed Monday.

Israeli airstrikes kill 40 people overnight at two locations in central Gaza, hospitals say

Hospitals in central Gaza have reported that 40 people were killed in two Israeli airstrikes overnight within a few hundred meters of each other.

Mississippi governor signs law restricting transgender people's use of bathrooms and locker rooms

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves has signed a new law regulating transgender people's use of bathrooms, locker rooms and dormitories in public education buildings, making Mississippi at least the 12th state to restrict transgender students from using facilities that align with their gender identity.

Georgian parliament approves divisive 'foreign influence' bill that sparked weeks of mass protests

The Georgian parliament on Tuesday approved in the third and final reading a divisive bill that sparked weeks of mass protests, with critics seeing it as a threat to democratic freedoms and the country's aspirations to join the European Union.

Mainstream EU parties hope immigration pact will deprive far right of votes

European Union nations endorsed sweeping reforms to the bloc’s failed asylum system on Tuesday as campaigning for Europe-wide elections next month gathers pace, with migration expected to be an important issue.

canada travel restrictions lifted

Philippines seeking Canada's help to avoid 'great power rivalry' between China, U.S.

The foreign minister of the Philippines wants closer business and military ties with Canada, saying the two countries can help maintain the post-war order in the Indo-Pacific by maintaining peaceful relations with both the U.S. and China.

Canada should address AI's impact on worker rights, privacy: parliamentary report

Artificial intelligence will have an impact on the Canadian labour force, a parliamentary committee recently heard, and MPs are suggesting ways the federal government can better prepare.

Criminal trial of 'Freedom Convoy' organizer Pat King begins with not guilty plea

As his criminal trial got underway Monday, 'Freedom Convoy' organizer Pat King pleaded not guilty to a list of nine charges related to the major protest that paralyzed downtown Ottawa in 2022.

canada travel restrictions lifted

'A significant increase:' Lice removal companies say they are seeing a surge in infestations

After nearly 15 years in business, Shawnda Walker said the past 12 months has been the busiest year yet for her North York head lice removal company.

Sunchips, Munchies recalled by Frito Lay Canada for possible salmonella contamination

Frito Lay Canada is recalling two of its most popular snacks due to a possible risk of salmonella contamination.

canada travel restrictions lifted

China, U.S. envoys will hold first top-level dialogue on artificial intelligence in Geneva

High-level envoys from the United States and China are set to meet in Geneva on Tuesday for talks about artificial intelligence.

OpenAI unveils newest AI model, GPT-4o

OpenAI on Monday announced its latest artificial intelligence large language model that it says will be easier and more intuitive to use.

Trudeau points to fire fight, says Meta news ban degrades safety as it makes billions

Justin Trudeau says Meta is making billions off people, but taking no responsibility for the well-being of communities they profit from.

Entertainment

canada travel restrictions lifted

Here's the lineup for the Canada Day Evening Show in Ottawa

Maestro Fresh Wes, Metric, Neon Dreams, Sara Dufour and Willows will perform on Canada Day in Ottawa.

No, a best-selling American writing duo didn't pen a Galen Weston romance novel

You would be forgiven for thinking Christina Lauren's latest romance novel stars a hunky reimagining of Loblaw chairman Galen G. Weston.

canada travel restrictions lifted

B.C. man fighting for refund after finding someone living at Whistler vacation rental

Edwin Mostered spent thousands of dollars booking a vacation home in Whistler, B.C., for a group skiing trip earlier this year – or so he thought.

Mortgage companies could intensify the next recession, U.S. officials warn

U.S. officials worry the next recession could be intensified by a cascading series of failures in the mortgage industry caused by crashing home prices, frozen financial markets and soaring delinquencies.

Construction on CN Rail hub in GTA can continue — for now: judge

The Federal Court of Appeal says work on a massive rail-and-truck hub in the Greater Toronto Area can go ahead — for the time being, as the future of the facility remains in limbo.

canada travel restrictions lifted

At Westminster dog show, a display of dogs and devotion

The 148th Westminster show kicked off Saturday, and Monday marked the start of the traditional judging that leads to the best in show prize, to be awarded Tuesday night.

If your soil's no good or you don't have any, grow your garden plants in straw bales

f you’d like to install a raised bed but don’t have the resources to build one, you can achieve the same effect by growing your plants in straw bales. It’s also a great option for those with poor soil or who don’t have a patch of dirt to call their own.

opinion | How to use your credit card as a powerful wealth-building tool

Irresponsibly using a credit card can land you in financial trouble, but personal finance columnist Christopher Liew says when used properly, it can be a powerful wealth-building tool that can help grow your credit profile and create new opportunities.

Avs forward Valeri Nichushkin suspended at least six months

Colorado Avalanche forward Valeri Nichushkin was suspended for at least six months without pay and placed in Stage 3 of the league's player assistance program.

Skinner under scrutiny as Oilers search for spark against Canucks

Stuart Skinner, the Oilers' starting goalie all season and for each of their eight post-season games this year, allowed all four goals scored against his team Sunday night, some of them arguably his fault.

canada travel restrictions lifted

Amazon's self-driving robotaxi unit Zoox under investigation by U.S. after 2 rear-end crashes

Amazon's self-driving robotaxi unit is being investigated by the U.S. government's highway safety agency after two of its vehicles braked suddenly and were rear-ended by motorcyclists.

Small, well-built Chinese EV called the Seagull poses a big threat to the U.S. auto industry

A tiny, low-priced electric car called the Seagull has American automakers and politicians trembling.

Local Spotlight

canada travel restrictions lifted

Thieves caught on camera stealing pet chicken from North Vancouver backyard

A $200 reward is being offered by a North Vancouver family for the safe return of their beloved chicken, Snowflake.

Adopted daughter in the Netherlands reunited with sister in Montreal and mother in Colombia, 40 years later

Two daughters and a mother were reunited online 40 years later thanks to a DNA kit and a Zoom connection despite living on three separate continents and speaking different languages.

'Reimagining Mother's Day': Toronto woman creates Motherless Day event after losing mom

Mother's Day can be a difficult occasion for those who have lost or are estranged from their mom.

Chris Hadfield inspires youth musical in Sudbury

YES Theatre Young Company opened its acclaimed kids’ show, One Small Step, at Sudbury Theatre Centre on Saturday.

Ottawa pizzeria places among top 20 deep-dish pizzas in the world at international competition

An Ottawa pizzeria is being recognized as one of the top 20 deep-dish pizzas in the world.

From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field

A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.

Wilfrid Laurier football player drafted despite only playing 27 games in his entire life

A Listowel, Ont. man, drafted by the Hamilton Tigercats last week, is also getting looks from the NFL, despite only playing 27 games of football in his life.

Federal government bans watercraft from Manitoba lake popular with tourists

The threat of zebra mussels has prompted the federal government to temporarily ban watercraft from a Manitoba lake popular with tourists.

Toronto-area dessert shop featured by Keith Lee forced to move after zoning complaint

A small Ajax dessert shop that recently received a glowing review from celebrity food critic Keith Lee is being forced to move after a zoning complaint was made following the social media influencer’s visit last month.

'We'll look after you': Locals feeding, housing Fort Nelson evacuees

With thousands evacuating Fort Nelson due to a wildfire encroaching on the town, nearby communities are opening their doors to those who’ve had their lives turned upside down in a matter of moments.

GARDINER GRIDLOCK | 'It's just been a nightmare': Gardiner restrictions are Toronto's traffic tipping point

In the first of a three-part series on Gardiner Gridlock, CTV Toronto examines the impact that the three-year cut to capacity on the downtown expressway is having on commuters – and their outcry.

canada travel restrictions lifted

Teen stabbed behind northwest Calgary high school, rushed to hospital with serious arm injury

A teenage boy was stabbed late Monday afternoon near John G. Diefenbaker High School in Calgary's northwest.

WestJet introduces year-round service from Calgary to Tokyo

Calgarians can now fly to the land of the rising sun any time of the year after WestJet introduced year-round service to the destination.

Man seriously injured in crash near Okotoks dies in hospital

A man who was seriously injured in a crash near Okotoks almost two weeks ago has died.

canada travel restrictions lifted

Child dies after being struck by a school bus in Rockland, Ont.

An 11-year-old child has died after being struck by a school bus while bicycling in Rockland, Ont., according to police.

Israeli flag-raising ceremony in Ottawa will be private affair

The Israeli flag is flying at Ottawa City Hall today to mark the country's national day, with plans to hold a private ceremony to mark Israel's Independence Day. There is a significant police presence at City Hall, including security barriers outside the main doors.

6 Ottawa restaurants ranked among Canada's 100 best

Six Ottawa restaurants are on the list of Canada's 100 Best Restaurants. The annual list of Canada's 100 Best Restaurants was released Monday evening, with Montreal wine bar Mon Lapin named the top restaurant for the second straight year.

canada travel restrictions lifted

Montreal businesses apologize after video shows man throw water on sleeping homeless person

Two Montreal businesses are apologizing after a video circulating on social media showed a man throwing water on a homeless person sleeping outside of a Chinatown storefront.

New modular ER opening at Lakeshore General Hospital

The Lakeshore General Hospital in Montreal's West Island announced it will be opening a temporary emergency room while major renovations get underway.

canada travel restrictions lifted

Man's death in fight ruled homicide after autopsy

The death of a man in a central Edmonton fight is being investigated as a homicide.

Wanted (desperately): Secondary scoring by Oilers forwards

Can a National Hockey League coach play his top forwards half the game?

Alberta to investigate police crackdown on pro-Palestinian campus protests

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says her government will ask the province’s police watchdog to investigate how officers forcibly cleared out two pro-Palestinian protests on university campuses.

canada travel restrictions lifted

TLC cancels Moncton concert after tour members, including lead singer, fall ill

TLC fans looking forward to their concert in Moncton, N.B., on Tuesday will be disappointed to find out that the show has been cancelled due to illness.

Halifax restaurant named one of the best in Canada

A Halifax restaurant has been named as one of the best in the country.

canada travel restrictions lifted

'Never seen a fire move like this': Dry conditions cause significant spread of Manitoba wildfire

Fire crews are continuing to battle a significant blaze in Manitoba’s north that has prompted evacuations.

These three Winnipeg restaurants have been named as some of Canada's best

A trio of Winnipeg restaurants have been named as some of the best in the country.

canada travel restrictions lifted

Saskatchewan Party MLAs barred from Regina Pride parade over school pronoun law

Organizers for Regina's Pride parade have barred legislature members of the governing Saskatchewan Party from participating in the event in June.

Regina police investigating fatal collision on 7th Avenue

The Regina Police Service (RPS) is asking drivers and pedestrians to avoid 7th Avenue between Retallack Street and Cameron Street as an investigation is underway.

'I was in shock': Sask. homeowner finds a porcupine stowaway in her garage

In a growing city it’s no surprise when suburban residents come across wild animals around their yards, but one Saskatoon homeowner in Kensington started poking around for answers when she spotted a quilled critter hanging out in her garage.

canada travel restrictions lifted

Kitchener city council votes to give THEMUSEUM $300K to stay open

Kitchener city councillors voted in favour of giving THEMUSEUM $300,000 to avoid being forced to close.

A dozen people displaced, $150K in damage after Cambridge apartment fire

Red Cross is helping 12 people who were displaced following an apartment fire in Cambridge.

University of Waterloo students and community members set up Gaza encampment

A group of University of Waterloo students and community members have established an encampment on campus to protest the war in Gaza.

canada travel restrictions lifted

Looming fall election puts pressure on province to end dispute with teachers, professor says

The end of the school year and a looming fall election are putting additional pressure on the province to strike a deal with Saskatchewan teachers, according to two political scientists.

The driver of a dump truck in a serious crash on Circle Drive has died, police say

Saskatoon police say the driver of a dump truck heavily damaged in a crash on Circle Drive on Friday died in hospital.

Northern Ontario

North bay police looking for third suspect in business break-in.

With two suspects in custody, North Bay police are asking the public for help in identifying a third accused of breaking into a downtown business.

Western University researchers unlock potential 'cure' for ALS

New research out of London, Ont.'s Western University is shedding light on a potential cure for ALS, with the goal of conducting human clinical trials within the next five years.

Councillors pull no punches during discussion about their salaries and workload

Councillors offered an unvarnished glimpse into what it’s like to represent their constituents at city hall during a meeting of the Governance Working Group (GWG). The deputy mayor said rather than part-time or full-time his job is 'all the time.'

London police request public’s assistance in arson investigation

Days after a vehicle was set on fire in a south London neighbourhood, London police are requesting the public’s assistance in identifying a suspicious vehicle seen in the area shortly before the vehicle was found on fire.

canada travel restrictions lifted

Residents in Simcoe County faced with toonie-sized hail after heavy storm

Simcoe County was under a severe thunderstorm warning with the potential for strong winds up to 90 kilometres per hour, toonie-sized hail, and heavy downpours on Monday.

Mother of 2 killed in Innisfil crash

Young mother was killed in a two-vehicle crash in Innisfil Saturday morning.

New facility aims to make Muskoka housing more affordable

A new facility officially unveiled in Gravenhurst aims to significantly reduce the ongoing housing affordability crisis.

canada travel restrictions lifted

Summerlike weather in store for Windsor, Ont. Tuesday

It’s only spring, but Tuesday’s forecast in Windsor will be feeling summerlike with a daytime high in the mid 20s.

Rally held at Detroit-Windsor Tunnel

Canada Border Services Agency employees held a rally at the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel.

Unanimous support for downtown Windsor by council

After a marathon, six-hour meeting on the Downtown Windsor Revitalization Plan, council and the mayor voted in favour of increasing taxes to support the core.

Vancouver Island

canada travel restrictions lifted

Open burning bans coming to coastal B.C. as wildfire activity increases

Most open burning will be banned in coastal B.C. ahead of the May long weekend.

Next 48 hours will be 'extremely challenging' for B.C. wildfire crews near Fort Nelson: officials

A wildfire burning dangerously close to Fort Nelson, B.C., has grown to more than 50 square kilometres, and officials are warning that the blaze's behaviour is expected to become more volatile over the next 48 hours.

canada travel restrictions lifted

'Altercation' in Penticton leaves 1 dead: RCMP

One person is dead after a fight in Penticton early Sunday morning, according to authorities.

Suspect fled in 2-door Fiat after convenience store robbery, Merritt RCMP say

A suspect is at large after robbing a convenience store at gunpoint in Merritt, B.C., Friday, according to local police.

Kamloops RCMP issue public warning about 2 men allegedly at centre of 'organized crime conflict'

After four targeted shootings in four days, Mounties in Kamloops are taking the unusual step of warning the public about two men they believe are likely to be targeted in future violent incidents.

canada travel restrictions lifted

Lethbridge charities see decline in number of volunteers

Some Lethbridge charities are having a hard time staffing volunteers, saying the number of people willing to donate their time to non-profits over the years has decreased.

Medicine Hat, Alta., police arrest local man in child luring case

Thousands of messages were sent between a teenage girl in the U.S. and an Alberta man posing as a young boy, a police investigation has revealed.

Southern Alberta farmers optimistic after recent rainfall

After a dry winter, southern Alberta farmers were expecting it to be another tough growing season.

Sault Ste. Marie

canada travel restrictions lifted

Violent weekend in Sault Ste. Marie includes multiple shootings

Ontario’s police watchdog has been called in after multiple shootings in Sault Ste. Marie took place last weekend.

Police say Sault suspect slashed 45 tires, started garage fire

A 40-year-old man from Sault Ste. Marie has been charged with arson and mischief following several incidents beginning April 14.

GTA man charged in major drug bust in northwestern Ontario

A 22-year-old man from the Greater Toronto Area is facing drug trafficking charges after police in northwestern Ontario seized $700,000 in drugs during raid.

canada travel restrictions lifted

'Irate male' assaulted Newfoundland officers with block of cheese, police say

Police in Newfoundland say patrol officers were assaulted Thursday by a "very irate male" wielding a block of cheese.

Whooping cough outbreak declared in Newfoundland

Health officials say there is an outbreak of whooping cough in eastern Newfoundland.

Trucker's body found in trailer in Newfoundland after failed police search in Ontario

Ontario Provincial Police are facing tough questions about their search for a missing Newfoundland trucker whose rig was found two weeks ago in Ontario, then sent back to Newfoundland, where his body was found Monday in the trailer.

Shopping Trends

The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop.  Read about us.

Editor's Picks

13 blackout curtains for anyone who needs complete darkness to fall asleep, 17 backyard decor and furniture pieces you need before summer arrives, 20 affordable amazon beauty and skincare products you'll probably repurchase over and over again, 15 of the best towels you can get online, 14 essential puppy products for new dog owners, this key box could prevent your car from being stolen, 18 brilliant birthday gifts for the person on your list who is impossible to shop for, 15 birthday gifts that prove good things come in small packages, 15 brilliant gift add-ons that cost less than $15, 14 of the best gentle cleansers for people with sensitive skin, 14 of the best cream and liquid bronzers you can get online right now, if you're on the hunt for a volumizing mascara, here are 12 that reviewers are loving right now, health & fitness, if you're training for your first marathon, here are the pairs of shoes seasoned runners swear by, 14 of the best products for people who get migraines and headaches constantly, if you like green tea, you need at least one of these matcha powders in your pantry, stay connected.

canada travel restrictions lifted

Language selection

  • Français fr

Latest border and travel measures

This news release may not reflect the current border and travel measures. Check COVID-19: Travel, testing and borders for the latest requirements to enter Canada.

Important notice

Note that information and resources on the coronavirus (COVID-19) are available on Canada.ca. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html

Government of Canada introduces further restrictions on international travel

From: Transport Canada

News release

The Government of Canada continues to take unprecedented action to protect the health and safety of Canadians by introducing measures to prevent further introduction and transmission of COVID-19 and new variants of the virus into Canada.

January 29, 2021                    Ottawa             Government of Canada

Today, the Government of Canada announced new rules on international travel, in addition to the multi-layered approach on COVID-19 already in place. The government and Canada’s airlines have agreed to suspend all flights to and from Mexico and Caribbean countries until April 30, 2021. This will be in effect as of January 31, 2021.

Further, effective midnight (11:59 PM EST) February 3, 2021, in addition to proof of a negative pre-departure test, Transport Canada will expand the existing international flight restrictions which funnel scheduled international commercial passenger flights into four Canadian airports: Montréal-Trudeau International Airport, Toronto Pearson International Airport, Calgary International Airport, and Vancouver International Airport. The new restrictions will include scheduled commercial passenger flights arriving from the United States, Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean and South America, which were exempted from the previous restriction. Private/Business and charter flights from all countries will also be required to land at the four airports. Flights from Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon and cargo-only flights will remain exempt.

As soon as possible in the coming weeks, all air travellers arriving in Canada, with very limited exceptions, must reserve a room in a Government of Canada-approved hotel for three nights at their own cost, and take a COVID-19 molecular test on arrival at their own cost. More details will be available in the coming days.

The Government of Canada will introduce a 72-hour pre-arrival testing requirement (molecular test) for travellers seeking entry in land mode, with limited exceptions such as commercial truckers. In addition, we continue to collaborate with partners in the United States to strengthen our border measures and keep our countries safe.

To ensure travellers’ awareness and compliance with quarantine requirements, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is working with security companies to help complete compliance checks for travellers arriving in Canada. Employees of these companies were trained by PHAC and authorized as Screening Officers under the Quarantine Act . These Screening Officers will visit travellers’ quarantine locations to establish contact, confirm identity and confirm that travellers are at the place of quarantine they identified upon entry into Canada. These new officers will conduct visits in 35 cities across the country, starting in Montréal and Toronto.

“The safety of the travelling public and the transportation industry are top priorities. Our government continues to strongly advise against non-essential travel outside Canada, and has implemented many measures to protect the health of Canadians in our transportation system. The expansion of the flight restrictions is based on decisive, public health rationale from the Public Health Agency of Canada to further protect Canadians from the health impacts of COVID-19.” The Honourable Omar Alghabra Minister of Transport  
“No one should be travelling right now. Each of us has a part in keeping our communities safe, and that means avoiding non-essential travel, which can put you, your loved ones, and your community at risk. The new measures announced today will be an important tool for protecting our communities, and increasing our compliance and enforcement capacity will help us keep all Canadians safe from COVID-19.” The Honourable Patty Hajdu Minister of Health  
“We continue to enhance the already very strong border measures that were put in place since March 2020. Today’s announcement further strengthens these measures and will help prevent the spread of COVID-19. We are working with provinces, territories and the United States to explore ways to keep us safe while ensuring the flow of essential goods and services remains uninterrupted.” The Honourable Bill Blair Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness  
“As new variants emerge, now more than ever, Canadians should be staying home. For their health and that of their loved ones, Canadians should only be considering travel if it is absolutely essential. With school breaks around the corner, I take this opportunity to remind Canadians that under no circumstance should anyone be planning travel for leisure.” The Honourable Marc Garneau Minister of Foreign Affairs  

Quick facts

Travellers entering Canada have a responsibility to make suitable arrangements for mandatory quarantine, which begins on the day they enter Canada. They are also required to submit COVID-19 related information electronically daily.

Failure to provide accurate information is an offence under the Quarantine Act . In addition, violating any quarantine or isolation instructions provided to travellers by a Screening Officer or quarantine officer when entering Canada is also an offence under the Quarantine Act and could lead to serious penalties, including six months in prison and/or $750,000 in fines.

PHAC currently contacts more than 6,500 travellers each day through phone calls, which verify their compliance with the mandatory isolation order.

As of January 26, 2021, 99% of the 48,682 interventions by law enforcement have resulted in compliance by travellers. However, in a minority of cases, verbal warnings, written warnings, tickets, and charges have been issued.

The Government of Canada is working directly with Aéroports de Montréal to offer voluntary testing on-site at the Montréal-Trudeau International Airport for arriving international travellers who wish to take a test before leaving the airport. This testing pilot project is in addition to those at Toronto’s Pearson International Airport and the Calgary International Airport.

Associated links

  • Backgrounder – Transport Canada Expansion of international flight restrictions
  • Backgrounder – New testing and quarantine measures for non-essential international air travel
  • COVID-19 measures, updates, and guidance issued by Transport Canada
  • Travel.gc.ca

For members of the public, questions and information, including general information related to cross-border travel, the Canada Border Services Agency’s (CBSA) Border Information Service (BIS) is available from 6 am to 10 pm (eastern daylight time), 7 days a week. Please visit: https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/contact/bis-sif-eng.html for contact information.

For media only:

Allison St-Jean Press Secretary Office of the Honourable Omar Alghabra Minister of Transport, Ottawa [email protected] Media Relations Transport Canada, Ottawa 613-993-0055 [email protected] Cole Davidson Office of the Honourable Patty Hajdu Minister of Health 613-957-0200

Media Relations Public Health Agency of Canada 613-957-2983 [email protected] Mary-Liz Power Press Secretary Office of the Honourable Bill Blair Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness [email protected] Media Relations Canada Border Services Agency 613-957-6500 [email protected]  

Page details

IMAGES

  1. Canada's Travel Restrictions: International Borders Open to All

    canada travel restrictions lifted

  2. Ultimate Guide To Canada Travel Restriction

    canada travel restrictions lifted

  3. All Of Canada's Travel Restrictions Are Officially Ending & Here's

    canada travel restrictions lifted

  4. Canada Eases Covid-Related Travel Restrictions

    canada travel restrictions lifted

  5. Canada's Travel Restrictions Are Changing Today & Here's What You

    canada travel restrictions lifted

  6. Canada's Travel Restrictions Were Updated & Here's What You Need To

    canada travel restrictions lifted

VIDEO

  1. Can you Travel outside of Canada after submitting your Application?

COMMENTS

  1. Government of Canada to remove COVID-19 border and travel measures

    Today the Government of Canada announced the removal of all COVID-19 entry restrictions, as well as testing, quarantine, and isolation requirements for anyone entering Canada, effective October 1, 2022. ... Although the masking requirement is being lifted, all travellers are strongly recommended to wear high quality and well-fitted masks during ...

  2. Canada is easing its travel restrictions. Here's what you need to know

    The federal government says it will soon ease restrictions for fully vaccinated Canadians and permanent residents returning from international travel. U.S. immigration lawyer Len Saunders says he ...

  3. Canada dropping COVID-19 border rules, travel mask mandate

    Canada is dropping all COVID-19 border restrictions for anyone entering the country, including: proof of COVID-19 vaccination, quarantine and isolation requirements as well as all pre- or on ...

  4. COVID-19: Travel, testing and borders

    Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is not required. Pre-board testing is not required. COVID-19 pre-entry and arrival tests are not required. Quarantine after you enter Canada is not required. Using ArriveCAN is not required, but. to save time at the border, you can use Advance Declaration in ArriveCAN to submit your customs and immigration ...

  5. What to know about Canada's travel rules as of April 1

    Despite pre-arrival testing requirements being lifted for fully vaccinated travellers entering Canada at the end of the month, other pandemic travel rules still apply. CTVNews.ca breaks down what ...

  6. PM agrees to lift pandemic border measures, source says

    The federal government has decided to drop the vaccination requirement for people entering Canada, end random COVID-19 testing at airports and make the use of the ArriveCan app optional by the end ...

  7. Canada to remove all COVID-19 restrictions for travelers

    Canada will lift all remaining COVID-19 restrictions for international and domestic travelers starting Oct. 1, officials announced this week. The regulatory changes come 2 1/2 years after Canada ...

  8. Trudeau backs lifting some COVID travel rules: CP source

    OTTAWA - The last of Canada's COVID-19 border restrictions will disappear at the end of this month with the expiry of a cabinet order affecting mandatory vaccinations, testing and quarantine of ...

  9. Canada to Lift Covid Border and Travel Restrictions This Weekend

    Since earlier this year, Canada has been gradually lifting its Covid-related restrictions to fully reopen its economy, with travel measures being the last set of rules to remain in place. Canada ...

  10. Canada eased its travel rules again. What to know, and how to guard

    WATCH: As Canada's travel restrictions ease, experts still urge taking precautions - Apr 24, 2022 ... But earlier this year, several jurisdictions unveiled plans to lift those measures ...

  11. Canada to lift testing requirement for fully vaccinated travelers

    Canada announced it will lift its Covid-19 pre-entry test requirement for fully vaccinated travelers beginning April 1, saying Thursday that the pandemic was entering a "transition phase."

  12. Canada to remove all COVID travel restrictions from Oct 1

    OTTAWA, Sept 26 (Reuters) - Canada will drop all COVID-19 restrictions for travelers from Oct. 1, including vaccination and masking requirements for flights and trains, the government said on ...

  13. Canada's travel restrictions: Vaccine mandates to board are ending

    Published June 14, 2022 7:23 a.m. PDT. Share. The Canadian government is dropping the requirement that domestic and outbound international travellers be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 ...

  14. A Border Reopening, at Least One Way, and Some Travel Tips

    Canada said this week that most restrictions on fully vaccinated American travelers will be lifted in early August. But the U.S. extended its border closure.

  15. Travel advice and advisories

    The Government of Canada's official source of travel information and advice, the Travel Advice and Advisories help you to make informed decisions and travel safely while you are outside Canada. Check the page for your destination often, because safety and security conditions may change. See Travel Advice and Advisories - FAQ for more ...

  16. Canada travel restrictions: Entry rules to remain until at least Sept

    Published June 29, 2022 1:34 p.m. PDT. Share. The federal government announced Wednesday all existing border restrictions to enter Canada will remain in place until at least Sept. 30. That means ...

  17. Canada travel restrictions: What has changed, what stays in place

    Travel rules in Canada have changed, dropping the COVID-19 vaccine requirement for domestic and outbound international travellers. As Canadians try to navigate the changes rules ahead of the busy ...

  18. Government of Canada extends quarantine measures and travel restrictions

    Canada's approach to border management includes entry and flight restrictions; mandatory pre-arrival, on-arrival, and post-arrival testing requirements; mandatory hotel stopover for air travellers; and mandatory 14-day quarantine for travellers. The Government of Canada is also extending those measures to protect the health and safety of Canadians.

  19. Government of Canada introduces further restrictions on international

    Today, the Government of Canada announced new rules on international travel, in addition to the multi-layered approach on COVID-19 already in place. The government and Canada's airlines have agreed to suspend all flights to and from Mexico and Caribbean countries until April 30, 2021. This will be in effect as of January 31, 2021.