The pandemic has hit the world hard. We have almost got back to where we began. Globally the second wave has started hitting harder than the first. 2021 has superseded 2020.  Canada has enforced strict travel restrictions on those arriving in Canada, especially from countries with the new variant, including India and Pakistan.

Canada sees an increase in the covid-19 cases, especially with the new variant.  To curb the spread of the virus and also as a measure to protect its citizen, Canada has put strict travel restrictions which includes halting flights coming from India and Pakistan for a month. The cargo flights carrying vaccines, medical and protective equipment would be permitted. The India variant seems to be a more transmissible one. Fearing this might cause increased health issues and as a protective measure, the travel restrictions have been implemented.

Any person who has traveled to India or Pakistan or entering another country needs to get a negative COVID-19 test. All others entering Canada need to be COVID-19 negative. No COVID-19 symptomatic travelers will be permitted to enter Canada. The regular immigration requirements must be met for all travelers and entry to Canada.

PROTOCOLS TO BE FOLLOWED

Those traveling by air need to go through the COVID-19 test before their departure and need to carry a COVID-19 negative report. It is mandatory for all individuals who are five years of age or older. There will also be COVID-19 testing on arrival and the need to reserve, before travel, a 3-night stay, at their own cost, in Government approved accommodation. Travelers arriving by land need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of arrival. Besides, they will be tested upon entry. Many travelers have started taking the land route to escape the mandatory three- days accommodation. Instead, they use the Land route by walking it from the US- Canada Land border and take a taxi, although it is slightly longer and time-consuming.