Canada US Border Closed to Non-Essential Travel for Another Month
The Canada and US border crossing ban (for non-essential travel) began March 21, 2020 was set to expire on June 21, 2020. It has now been extended to July 21, 2020.
This has been a topic that has gone on for a while, but I have yet to chime in on this. I thought this was as good a time as any, since it has been dragging out.
What is still open?
First off, let’s clarify what non-essential means. The current agreement between both countries continues to allow the flow of trade and commerce, as well as essential health-care workers who live and work on opposite sides of the border. Furthermore, Canadians who are stranded abroad can also still come home, with conditions such as self-isolating for 14 days.
There seems to be some additional loopholes around the system, where they are apparently less strict at the airports than on land.
What is Non-Essential Travel?
With all those exceptions, who’s really left? Tourists? And perhaps business meetings.
Thoughts
Personally, I feel like it makes more sense to ban longer than just 30 days at a time. I guess in hindsight it is easier to think back. But let’s say going forward. What will 30 days change from now and why wait till 5 days before to make this announcement? So if someone had a vacation booked on June 22, which I assumed most people don’t, they can now move it to July 22? I find it hard to believe that the borders will open by July 22 and allow the tourism flood gates to open.
Without a vaccine, it will be difficult to open up the borders any time soon. It continues to baffle me why the two governments only plan 30 days at a time.
Either way, I am sure they have their reasons! What are your thoughts about this non-essential travel ban only 30 days at a time? Please let us know in the comment section below!
The “border” is not closed. Only the LAND border is closed. The United States of America does NOT restrict Canadians’ entry on flights. This has been true at all times since the pandemic started. It is not a “loophole” US border officials are not “less strict” at airports. There is not actual policy to restrict entry to USA by Canadians, except at land border.
Thanks for clarifying DenB!
Hi Matt, Interesting Article. Recently BC mayor also announced borders to be closed and Americans should not tour around in BC, it they are heading for Alaska after some American Texas car number plate noticed in the Burnaby, BC
Thanks for contributing this information for the post Olivia!