Senior Canadian government officials have confirmed that Canada and the United States have agreed to extend the Canada-U.S. border closure until at least August 21, 2020.
The terms and exemptions from the previous Order-in-Council will be maintained. For companies, this means that non-essential business travel continues to be restricted. Travellers who possess work permits or work permit approval letters are permitted entry to Canada, however they may face extensive questioning as to the urgency and importance of their travel. Travellers coming from the United States may apply for a work permit or business visitor entry at the border, however they would have to demonstrate the essential nature of their travel. Canada Border Services Agency officers are consistently applying a restrictive standard in permitting entry to Canada.
The mandatory 14-day quarantine period for all travellers entering Canada continues to be in force until at least August 31, 2020. This includes all Canadian citizens, permanent residents and foreigners entering Canada by air or land.
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