Travel restrictions at U.S. border extended to at least Nov. 21

WASHINGTON, WASH. — Limits on travel between Canada and the United States will persist for at least four more weeks, the federal government confirmed Monday despite signs of growing impatience south of the border.

“We are extending non-essential travel restrictions with the United States until Nov. 21, 2020,” Public Safety Minister Bill Blair declared on Twitter.

“Our decisions will continue to be based on the best public health advice available to keep Canadians safe.”

Incidental visits like vacations, day trips and cross-border shopping excursions have been forbidden since March in an effort to limit the spread of COVID-19.

The restrictions do not apply to those who must cross to ensure the continued flow of goods and essential services, including truckers and health workers who live in one country but work in the other. Canada has also added certain exemptions to reunite extended family members.

But despite alarming signs of the pandemic making a comeback on the cusp of colder weather and flu season, President Donald Trump and his officials have persisted in playing down the dangers, and speak straight-faced about lifting the ban sooner rather than later.

An online poll released last week by Leger and the Association for Canadian Studies suggested two out of three Canadians would not be comfortable travelling to the U.S. even once the restrictions are lifted.

The strongest reservations were expressed in Ontario and B.C., where 77 per cent said they would not travel.