Canada extends its international travel restrictions due to Covit-19

(CNN) – Canada extends US and international travel bans imposed in opposition to COVID-19 until July 21.Canada’s Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparation Bill Blair announced the decision on Twitter on Friday.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau acknowledged that the extension of travel restrictions would “cause disgust” to many in a press conference after the announcement. The Prime Minister acknowledged that the epidemic was not over and that its goal was to keep Canadians safe. Trudeau is in isolation after going abroad for the G7 summit.

“I get it. It’s frustrating for a lot of people who want to get back to normal,” Trudeau said Friday. “I understand the impatience of the tourism industry and Canadian individuals who want to travel, but from the beginning we have been a government for Canadians. Doing what it takes to keep them safe.

He added: “We have not yet come out of this epidemic. We need to reach the goal of getting 75% vaccinated with the first dose, and at least 20% vaccinated with the second dose, because before we start loosening things up, even a person who has been fully vaccinated can pass the vaccine to someone who does not have COVID-19.

Blair said the government would soon announce how it plans to handle the trip for those who have been fully vaccinated, and Trudeau says the approach will be “gradual”.

“We’re going to ease restrictions for fully vaccinated passengers, but safety and vaccination levels are also important in the community where they return,” Trudeau said. “We are looking at a gradual approach to easing border controls, not because a person who is fully vaccinated today will be safe for three months from now, but because the community they are in, the community they return to, will be better protected within three months.

The United States and Canada agreed to close the border in March 2020, when the corona virus epidemic began.

Canada practically does not reach American travelers. Travel, leisure and occasional visits are prohibited.

There are some exceptions for family members, foreign workers and international students.

Incoming passengers By air Y From the ground They are subjected to rigorous testing and isolated operations.

Those arriving by plane must isolate three nights at a hotel approved by the government, in addition to the remaining check-in and isolation requirements.

Travel tips for Canada can be found here Government of Canada website.

– CNN’s Marnie Hunter contributed to this report.