BREAKING: Canada to suspend immigration documents for residents of Uganda, South Sudan, and the DR Congo
Canada Suspends Immigration Documents for Residents of Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan Due to Ebola Outbreak Risk
As of May 27, 11:59 p.m. EDT, Canada will suspend immigration documents for residents of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan due to the high or very high risk of an Ebola disease outbreak. This temporary measure, which will be in place for 90 days, means that residents of these countries will not be allowed to travel to Canada, even if they hold a temporary resident visa, permanent resident visa, or electronic travel authorization (eTA).
The Public Health Agency of Canada has cited the severity of Ebola and the rapidly evolving international outbreak as the reason for this precautionary measure. The upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, which Canada is hosting, has also been mentioned as a factor, with hundreds of thousands of international visitors expected to attend the tournament. The government has framed these measures as necessary to protect Canadians and reinforce the integrity of the border against this threat to public health.
The suspension applies to previously approved immigration documents, including temporary resident visas, electronic travel authorizations, and permanent resident visas. Residents of these countries who already hold valid documents will not be permitted to travel to Canada while their documents remain suspended. During the 90-day period, Canada will also pause making decisions on applications for documents from residents of these countries. Those who are already in Canada will remain unaffected by these measures and may continue to stay in Canada during their authorized period of stay.
This may be the first use of powers granted to the government under Bill C-12, which provides the Governor in Council with broad executive powers over immigration applications, immigration documents, and temporary residents. The bill allows the Governor in Council to suspend, cancel, or vary immigration documents in situations deemed to be in the public interest, including matters pertaining to public health. Beginning on May 30, all travellers returning to Canada after having visited affected regions within the past 21 days will need to adhere to quarantine measures upon their return.
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