The Canadian government will require travellers from Ebola-affected regions to self-isolate for 21 days effective as of Wednesday.
In addition, immigration authorities are temporarily suspending applications from Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan and Uganda.
Health Minister Majorie Michel said in a press conference Tuesday afternoon that despite the self-isolation requirement, the health risk to Canadians “remains low.”
“We are putting forward a precautionary approach to ensure the safety and security of Canadians,” she said.
All travellers will be assessed by border officials, while those who have symptoms will be transferred to hospital for further medical assessment.
The stricter border controls are being implemented under the Quarantine Act starting this Saturday until Aug. 29, and those who do not have a place to isolate will be provided with a location.
Immigration Minister Lena Diab also said that documents will not be cancelled.
“This is a suspension of documents, it is temporary. And while the measures are in place, once the measures end, documents that have not expired will be reactivated and there is no need for anyone to reapply,” she said.
She also expects these measures to be in place for 90 days.
Government officials stated before the press conference that on average, 350 people from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and South Sudan come to Canada each week.
The majority of passengers arrive in Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver airports, with about 60 per cent of flights being Canadians or permanent residents, whereas 40 per cent are foreign nationals.
With the FIFA World Cup set to kick off on June 11 and Canada hosting its first game in Toronto on June 12, concerns have mounted over precautions being taken across North America to prevent spread of the disease.