To protect the health and safety of the Canadians, the Government of Canada is taking very strict precautionary measures at the border by constantly monitoring the available data and scientific evidences.

Immigration has always been a pressing concern demanding focus due to long standing demographic challenges and labor market shortages. It will continue to be the focal point of Canada’s post-pandemic economic recovery.

Beginning 21 June 2021, any foreign national who holds a valid and authorized COPR (Confirmation of Permanent Residence) will be allowed to travel Canada. As per the previous set rules, any foreign national who held a valid COPR issued on or before March 18, 2020, were exempted from Canada’s travel restrictions. In contrary, those who held a valid COPR issued after March 18, 2020, could only come to Canada if they met another exemption or were coming from the US to settle permanently in Canada.

A COPR is tied to the applicant’s passport and their immigration medical examination that holds the validity for one year. However, many applicants were not able to travel to Canada before their COPRs got invalid due to the travel restrictions or COVID-19 restrictions. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has been working closely with applicants who were already exempted from the travel restrictions to reissue them a COPR.

Individuals whose COPR has been expired should not book flights or attempt to travel to Canada until they receive a new COPR from IRCC.
Gradual and Safe arrival of New Permanent Residents in Canada

The foremost priority of Canada’s Government is the health and safety of its citizens. Every individual travelling to Canada,even those whose applications have been approved for permanent residence has to comply with the COVID-19 health measures and requirements upon arriving at Canada.

The changes to the travel restrictions supplement the temporary pathway to permanent residence for those who are already working in Canada to ensure that the country continues to have the labour force needed for their economic recovery. While permanent residence applicants in Canada will help bolster their immediate labour market needs, successful applicants abroad need time to make arrangements and uproot their life before settling themselves in Canada especially at the time of COVID.
Canada is allowing more time for substantial numbers of new immigrants to settle in Canada and begin their integration so that they can better prepare for Canada’s economic future.