The federal government is now urging Canadians abroad to return home while they still have a chance as countries around the world impose even tighter travel restrictions in a bid to curb the spread of COVID-19.
A word from Global Affairs Canada came today as Canadians travelling in Europe scrambled to book flights ahead of looming border closures in many European Union countries.
The advice marks an escalation for the government, who previously urged Canadians to cancel or postpone non-essential trips.
In a statement, they say “airlines have cancelled flights. new restrictions may be imposed with little warning. your travel plans may be severely disrupted and you may be forced to remain outside of Canada longer than expected”.
Americans who were fleeing Europe ahead of a U.S. imposed ban talked about the difficulties of getting home.
Several European countries are closing borders and suspending international flights come Monday.
Canada’s federal government has not said if it will consider offering repatriation flights to its citizens stranded in European countries.