Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) made several announcements regarding the closure of land borders and air travel in light of COVID-19.
Land Borders
To limit the spread of COVID-19, many countries have put in place travel or border restrictions. Many airlines are suspending flights, airports are closing, and exit bans are becoming more frequent. Currently, at Canadian land borders, US Citizens, green card holders, and those that have a Visa in hand can be denied entry if considered to be “non-essential travel”.
US citizens can also be barred from entry if they have been in a recent hot spot in the past 14 days or if they show symptoms upon arrival. This measure does not include or apply to Canadian Citizens and or permanent residents and or First Nations, including family members. However, all travellers are required to self-isolate if allowed entry into the country.
Travel for the purpose of obtaining immigration services is considered non-essential. If you are in Canada and are seeking to travel to the border in order to make an application for a work permit, study permit, or permanent residence (also referred to as flagpoling), IRCC asks you to consider Federal and Provincial guidelines for self-isolation and social distancing. The Federal Government advises applicants NOT to travel to the border for these services until further notice.
Air Carriers
A travel ban has been implemented through an order under the Aeronautics Act, which requires air carriers operating flights to Canada to deny boarding to any passenger who is not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (or an immediate family member). The measure came into force on Wednesday, March 18, at 12:00 p.m. (noon) EDT, and applies to travellers arriving by air.
As changes continue to arise, we will keep you updated. We understand that this is a confusing and stressful time for all. Please feel welcome to reach out to us for further information and guidance regarding your current situation.
For more information, you may find these pages helpful:
Our Services
Calver and Associates is a leading provider of Canadian Immigration services in Durham Region. We serve clients in Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, and beyond. Our Registered Canadian Immigration Consultant has over 10 years of experience in Canadian Immigration law and over four years of experience serving those in the Oshawa area.
We can provide assistance with applications for both temporary and permanent residency in Canada. We handle applications for study permits, permanent residency, family class sponsorship, visitor visas, work permits, and Canadian citizenship. We also handle criminal inadmissibility cases by developing remedies for refusal.
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