To keep informed about the current situation

A global crisis 

But then the entire world—including Montréal—was struck by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The city halted all non-essential business, including tourism industry operations. 

Health and safety first 

Health and safety are everyone’s top priorities. Montréal has complied with all government and public health directives, including: 

• Imposing travel restrictions by air and at Canada’s land borders:  
  • Non-essential travel between Canada and the United States is prohibited. 
    • Essential travel has not been interrupted. 
    • Cross-border product shipments have not been affected. 
    • Commercial goods are still being traded between the two countries. 
  • Canada is not accepting inbound travellers, except those who are citizens or permanent or temporary residents of Canada. 
    • Foreign nationals travelling by air may land in Canada if they are transiting to another country.  
    • The current restrictions do not apply to diplomats, immediate family members of Canadian citizens, temporary foreign workers, certain international students and individuals who are in possession of a confirmation of permanent residence but who have not yet landed in Canada.  
    • All travellers entering Canada must self-isolate for 14 days.  

  • Airlines are responsible for refusing boarding to anyone presenting COVID-19 symptoms. 

  • International flights are only permitted to land in Montréal, Toronto, Vancouver and Calgary. This measure does not affect flights from Mexico or Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon. 

• Implementing local isolation and physical distancing measures:

  • Maintain a distance of 2 metres (6 feet) from others;
  • Wear a mask or face covering in public places (public transportation, grocery stores, parks, etc.) – This is not compulsory, but highly recommended by provincial public health authorities
  • As of May 22, outdoor gatherings of 10 people from a maximum of 3 different households are permitted.

•  Closure of cinemas, theatres and other attractions in Montréal:

  • As of May 29, museums, libraries and drive-ins will reopen gradually, while respecting certain health security measures.

• All festivals, as well as public sports and cultural events planned for the territory of Québec have been cancelled until August 31, 2020.

Canada’s Prime Minister has stated that the country has not ruled out any measures to prevent the spread of the pandemic. But for now, it is relying on social distancing.  

What about a virtual visit? 

While we wait for travel restrictions to be lifted, why not explore Montréal from the comfort of your home? Our website features the city’s top sites and attractions to help you plan your trip. Get a glimpse of local life through a virtual tour of our different neighbourhoods or explore the city’s best-kept secrets and must-see sights by exploring the images, suggestions and #MTLmoments. 

We look forward to seeing you here. But until then, à bientôt! 

For further information on preventive measures and directives: 

• Government of Canada
• Government of Québec
• YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport