Canada and Mexico extend border restrictions with the US

Border restrictions between the US, Canada and Mexico are being further extended until February 21 to curb the spread of COVID-19, officials have announced.

Current restrictions on non-essential travel between the three countries was due to expire on January 21 but will now remain in place for another month. The US confirmed it had reached agreements with its neighbors this week. The Department of Homeland Security Acting said on social media: "we are working closely with Mexico and Canada to keep essential trade and travel open while also protecting our citizens from the virus."

US Customs officers stand beside a sign saying that the US border is closed at the US/Canada border in Lansdowne, Ontario ©AFP via Getty Images

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also announced the closure on social media, adding, "We'll continue to do whatever is necessary to keep Canadians safe."

The three countries closed their land borders to non-essential travel in mid-March and restrictions have been extended every month since. The travel ban maintains the rules as previous extensions, with cross-border travel permitted for those working in essential services and trade, as well as returning citizens.

The Millennial Arch (Arco y Reloj Monumental) at the entrance of Avenida de revolucion, at zona centro and a landmark that welcomes tourists — Border restrictions will remain in place until 21 November ©f8grapher/Shutterstock

While the land borders are sealed, Mexico is still permitting US and Canadian tourists by air, with no quarantine rules in place. Canada has a stricter policy: only allowing in air passengers who meet certain criteria, and who undergo a 14-day quarantine period upon arrival.

This story was first published on March 18 and updated on January 13, 2020.