The Canadian government announced on Monday a relaxation of temporary border closings to allow foreign nationals to join their families living in Canada. " It is an incredibly difficult time to be away from a spouse, a child, a mom or a dad, " said Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, during his daily press briefing.
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" We hear that, " he continued. " This is why we are proposing a limited exemption to allow immediate family members of citizens or permanent residents to come to Canada. The measure is scheduled to take effect overnight Monday to Tuesday and apply to foreign nationals who are spouses, children, parents or legal guardians of Canadian citizens. They will need to have a valid visa and electronic travel authorization.
These people should not be infected with the coronavirus and have no symptoms of Covid-19. They will have to plan to stay at least 15 days in the territory, since they will have to submit to a quarantine period of this duration.
" The purpose of this measure is not to allow people to come and enter Canada but rather to help Canadian families reunite during this unprecedented period ," said Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino , eliminating the desires of escapade in Canada and the trips for personal events.
In mid-March, Canada closed its borders to " non-essential " travel by foreign travelers to stop the spread of the new coronavirus. Ottawa and Washington have agreed to keep their common border closed to " non-essential " travel, which excludes the transportation of goods and merchandise, until June 21.
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