Canada Implements 90-Day Travel Ban on Uganda Amid Ebola Concerns

Canada has introduced significant temporary border and immigration restrictions impacting travellers and residents originating from Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and South Sudan. These new measures, effective immediately, are a direct response to growing concerns about the Ebola virus outbreak in East Africa.

The Canadian government stated that the restrictions aim to intercept any potential spread of the Ebola virus into Canada, acknowledging it as an evolving international public health concern. For a period of 90 days, starting May 27, immigration documents for individuals residing in countries deemed to have a “high or very high” Ebola risk will be suspended. This means that even those with pre-approved visas or travel authorizations will not be permitted to travel to Canada.

Furthermore, Canada will temporarily halt the processing of new immigration applications from residents of these affected nations during the suspension. Additional border measures will be in place from May 30 to August 29, 2026. Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and certain foreign nationals who have been in Uganda, the DRC, or South Sudan within the preceding 21 days, even without showing symptoms, will face a mandatory 21-day quarantine upon arrival. Those who cannot arrange suitable self-quarantine will be placed in designated government facilities.

Individuals exhibiting Ebola symptoms will be immediately isolated for medical assessment. These actions are being enforced under Canada’s Quarantine Act. The government emphasized that these measures are precautionary, aiming to minimize risk while ensuring traveller safety and are not indicative of an immediate threat to Canadians, as the overall risk is considered low. The coming FIFA World Cup 2026 was also cited as a factor necessitating robust preventative measures.

“The health and safety of people in Canada is our top priority,” stated Canada’s Minister of Health, Marjorie Michel. Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab added that the restrictions are vital for protecting Canadians and bolstering border controls against emerging health threats.

Canada will continue to closely monitor the Ebola situation both regionally and internationally, with the possibility of adjusting these measures as circumstances evolve.

Source: The Observer (Uganda)