As the global COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve rapidly, the Canadian government continues to take actions to limit the spread of the virus and provide support to Canadians at home and abroad.
“Our government is taking the necessary action to protect the health and safety of Canadians. COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving global issue. That is why we are taking these exceptional measures to help Canadian travelers find a way to get home to their families and friends.”The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
Today Prime Minister Trudeau announced new measures by the Government of Canada to help bring Canadians home from abroad.
All over the world, COVID-19 has caused sudden border restrictions and flight cancellations, leaving Canadians stranded outside of the country without a way home. Under these extraordinary circumstances, the Government of Canada is working with Canadian airlines and foreign governments to provide access to commercial flights for Canadian travellers who want to return home.
The flights will prioritize stranded travellers who are Canadian citizens, Canadian permanent residents, or immediate family members of Canadian citizens. In addition, only travellers who are asymptomatic will be allowed to board, and all travellers will be asked to self-isolate for 14 days upon entry.
In the first series of flights to help Canadians return home, Air Canada will operate a special flight today from Morocco. Flights will also be planned for Peru and Spain, and other countries as soon as possible. Factors such as the number of Canadians, airspace closures, and the local situation are being taken into consideration in order to identify the locations for these flights. We are currently working with Air Canada and are engaged with other airlines as we assess global needs.
The Government of Canada is working with Canadian airlines to ensure that stranded Canadians are offered a reasonable commercial price for their return ticket home.
All Canadians abroad are strongly encouraged to register with Global Affairs Canada. This will allow the Government of Canada to provide information to them as soon as it becomes available.
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