Canada has imposed new border restrictions banning foreign nationals who recently visited the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) from entering the country.

The measures, effective from July 20, 2026, are part of an interim order under the Aeronautics Act to curb the spread of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, which has caused 2,536 confirmed cases and 1,033 deaths.

The ban applies to travelers from the DRC, Uganda, and South Sudan, though Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and those under the Indian Act can still enter but must undergo a 21-day quarantine.The restrictions aim to reduce public health risks and ensure safe border processing.The DRC, a key producer of cobalt and copper, faces economic challenges as the outbreak disrupts critical mineral supply chains.A US-backed critical minerals partnership has been delayed due to travel restrictions, impacting projects reliant on Congolese resources.

Airlines report compliance burdens and potential revenue losses from the new rules, while Canada maintains a Level 3 travel health notice for the DRC and Level 2 for Uganda.The measures remain in place until August 29, 2026, with possible extensions based on outbreak developments.