Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said today that because the pandemic has not yet ended, Canada has no plans to open its borders to unvaccinated tourists in the foreseeable future.
Trudeau said at a press conference in Coquitlam, British Columbia: “This situation will not happen for a long time. We have not completely escaped this pandemic. We still have to be careful, we still have to Stay vigilant.”
Due to the steady improvement in the number of COVID-19 cases and other health indicators since the spring, Canada has eased some border restrictions in recent weeks.
For example, the country no longer requires fully vaccinated Canadian citizens and permanent residents to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival in the country.
However, fully vaccinated international tourists are currently not allowed to enter the country, although officials say the restrictions will end soon.
Watch: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau outlines Canada’s priorities for easing border restrictions
Trudeau said that he will proceed in an orderly manner with regard to border restrictions, first focusing on fully vaccinated travelers entering Canada, and then studying what those who are not fully vaccinated can do. 0:50
Trudeau said: “We will ensure that progress is made in this regard in the next few weeks.” He did not provide a specific date.
“However, we must ensure that every step does not retreat, we do not have to close again, and we do not have to yo-yo again in the opening and closing ceremonies.”
Travel restrictions between Canada and the United States will also continue until at least July 21 to prevent all non-essential travel, including tourism.
