The Council today adopted a recommendation on the gradual lifting of the temporary restrictions on non-essential travel into the EU.
Based on the criteria and conditions set out in the recommendation, as from 1 July member states should start lifting the travel restrictions at the external borders for residents of the following third countries:
- Algeria
- Australia
- Canada
- Georgia
- Japan
- Montenegro
- Morocco
- New Zealand
- Rwanda
- Serbia
- South Korea
- Thailand
- Tunisia
- Uruguay
- China, subject to confirmation of reciprocity
However, member countries of the European Union can still issue their own travel restrictions. The EU has favored countries with an epidemiological situation better or similar to Europe. The limit has been set at 16 new cases per day per 100,000 population. The list will be updated every two weeks.
This is good news, but…
Unfortunately, this opening of the EU to Canadians does not change anything. The Canadian government has still not lifted its travel restrictions to Europe, the notice to avoid non-essential travel and the 14 days quarantine upon return are still in effect. The maximum penalties for non-compliance with the quarantine law include a fine of up to $ 750,000 and / or a prison term of six months.
On Tuesday, the Government of Canada renewed by order its restrictive measures until August 31st. Will the government change its mind by then? Will see…
Conclusion
There are good deals for Europe in August for less than $400 round trip. We do not publish dates we found on our website during this summer until Canada lifts these restrictions from its citizens. While a July vacation in Europe now seems unlikely, there may be a small chance in August to take advantage of these offers.
Canadians can still fly to certain provinces of Canada this summer without mandatory quarantine upon return.
Here are some reference sites for future openings:
- Where Can I Travel Right Now?
- Re-open EU
- International Air Transport Association (IATA)
- Council of the European Union
