Canada announces new travel restrictions that could affect travelers from Africa [Full list]

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Canada has announced new temporary border measures that could affect travellers from parts of Africa following an Ebola disease outbreak, introducing entry bans, mandatory quarantines and enhanced health screening for eligible arrivals.

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The measures, which took effect as part of Canada’s efforts to prevent the virus from entering and spreading within the country, apply to travellers who have recently visited or lived in Uganda, South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

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According to the government, the restrictions will remain in force until August 29, 2026, although officials said the overall health risk to people in Canada is currently considered low.

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Under the new rules, foreign nationals from Uganda, South Sudan and the DRC will not be allowed to travel to Canada during the suspension period, even if they already hold a valid temporary resident visa, permanent resident visa or electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

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Canada also introduced additional restrictions specifically targeting travellers who have recently been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Foreign nationals who have visited the country within the previous 21 days are prohibited from entering Canada or boarding flights bound for the country.

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Travellers who have been in Uganda or South Sudan within the past 21 days may still be allowed to enter Canada if they are eligible, but they will be required to complete a mandatory 21-day quarantine upon arrival unless they qualify for an exemption.

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The government said Canadian citizens, permanent residents and individuals registered under the Indian Act who have travelled to any of the three affected countries within the previous 21 days will also be permitted to enter but must undergo the same 21-day quarantine requirement unless exempt.

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Before travelling, affected passengers must prepare a suitable quarantine plan, including accommodation where they can remain isolated for 21 days with access to food, water, medication and public health services.

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Foreign nationals eligible to enter Canada may also be required to provide proof of paid accommodation for the quarantine period and could be denied entry if they cannot meet the financial requirements.

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Upon arrival, eligible travellers will undergo a health assessment conducted by border officials. Those without symptoms will receive a quarantine kit containing a digital thermometer and health monitoring instructions and will be required to record their temperature twice daily throughout the quarantine period.

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Anyone displaying symptoms consistent with Ebola disease will immediately undergo a medical examination and be placed in isolation at a medical facility or another designated location until health authorities determine it is safe for them to leave.

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Canadian authorities warned that anyone who fails to comply with the quarantine requirements or other measures under the Quarantine Act could face severe penalties, including fines of up to C$1 million, imprisonment for up to three years, or both.

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The temporary measures are part of Canada’s broader public health response aimed at reducing the risk of Ebola entering the country while protecting residents from the spread of the disease.

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