Last Updated on February 23, 2023
Key Points
- U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada land borders are closed through December 21, 2020
- The border closures have been extended for another 30 days due to COVID-19
- Nonessential travel is prohibited
- Travel is permitted for education, healthcare, and U.S. citizens returning home
Overview
Due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns, North American borders will remain closed for another month. Nonessential travel across U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada borders is banned through December 21, 2020.
What are the Changes?
North American land borders will stay closed through at least December 21, 2020.
Background
Restrictions on nonessential travel in North America were implemented in March 2020 due to COVID-19. The travel bans have been extended every month since then. The latest extension marks the eighth consecutive month that the border closures have been in place.
Who is Affected?
Travel across the borders is limited to essential purposes only. At this time, “essential” travel includes U.S. citizens and permanent residents who are returning to the United States, individuals traveling to the U.S. for work, individuals participating in legal cross-border trade, such as transporting goods, and those traveling for school, medical treatment, and public health reasons. Travel may also be permitted for other reasons as determined on a case-by-case basis.
Looking Ahead
Border closures may be extended after December 21 depending on epidemiological conditions.
Envoy is pleased to provide you this information, which was prepared in collaboration with Sara Herbek, who is the Managing Partner at Global Immigration Associates, P.C. (www.giafirm.com), Envoy’s affiliated law firm.
Content in this publication is not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an Envoy-affiliated attorney or another qualified professional.
