TORONTO — Canada and the U.S. have agreed to extend the temporary restriction of all non-essential travel across the Canada-U.S. border until Oct. 21.

Reports that the border would stay closed until at least late October and possible into early November began circulating last week.

Back in July one of Canada’s highest-profile medical experts throughout the COVID-19 crisis, Dr. Isaac Bogoch, said he wouldn’t be surprised if the Canada-U.S. border stays closed until into 2021.

This statement was issued by Bill Blair, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness: “The Government of Canada’s top priority remains the health and safety of Canadians, and this extension will continue to protect people on both sides of the border while ensuring the flow of essential goods and services between our two countries.”