What’s with the WORLD

MDTI-WA-2021-0006
Date: 11 January 2021

INDONESIA- UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF 11 JANUARY 2021

Indonesia has extended the entry ban for most foreigners and the rules for domestic travel through Jan. 25 to stem the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). All international or non-rail domestic travelers must register on the Health Alert Card (eHAC) mobile application before travel and are advised to download the PeduliLindungi contact-tracing application

Exemptions from the foreigners’ entry ban are in place for high-level state visits and holders of Limited Stay Permit Cards, among others; the government’s level of enforcement is unclear. Returning Indonesian citizens and foreigners who can still enter the country must present evidence that they have tested negative for COVID-19 within 48 hours before departure, quarantine for five days at designated facilities upon arrival, and obtain a negative result from another COVID-19 test before leaving the isolation premises.

MDTI-WA-2021-0005
Date: 11 January 2021

FRANCE- UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF 11 JANUARY 2021

Authorities are maintaining tighter entry restrictions for travelers from the UK until further notice in efforts to control the spread of a new strain of COVID-19 active in England. Most travelers from the UK remain barred from entry. Officials are allowing entry for French citizens and citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA), as well as permanent residents of the EU and individuals who are engaging in essential travel. Such individuals must produce proof of a negative COVID-19 test result no older than 72 hours before departure.

Permitted travelers arriving from Algeria, Bahrain, China, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ecuador, Iraq, Iran, Israel, Lebanon, Morocco, Panama, South Africa, Russia, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, the US, and Zimbabwe must present proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours before boarding their flights. Permitted arrivals from other countries must meet the same condition, take a test on arrival, and self-isolate until the result is known or for 14 days.

MDTI-WA-2021-0004
Date: 11 January 2021

GREECE- UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF 11 JANUARY 2021

International entry restrictions are also in place at least until Jan. 21. All passengers arriving in Greece must present a negative result from a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 72 hours prior to arrival and self-isolate for 7 days. Additionally, all arrivals from the UK must take a rapid antigen test upon entry and comply with the self-isolation requirement, even if the test is negative; random checks of arrivals from other locations will also take place. A second test, taken up to seven days after arrival, may be applicable. In the event a traveler receives a positive COVID-19 test result, they must self-isolate for at least 14 days. All international travelers must also complete Greece’s Passenger Locator Form.

Entry is currently prohibited for all non-EEA nationals with certain exemptions, such as healthcare workers, permanent residents of an EU or Schengen Area country, diplomats, student visa holders, seasonal workers, passengers in transit, and transport workers. Citizens of Australia, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Russia, Singapore, Rwanda, South Korea, Switzerland, Thailand, the UK, the UAE, and Uruguay are also exempt from the travel ban.

MDTI-WA-2021-0003
Date: 11 January 2021

FINLAND- UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF 11 JANUARY 2021

Authorities in Finland plan to suspend commercial flights with Ireland and South Africa Jan. 11-18 as part of the nation’s response to the emergency of new strains of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Moreover, Finland’s existing suspension of flights with the UK, which entered into force Dec. 21 amid concerns over mutations in the virus, has been extended until at least Jan. 18. Authorities have also barred all travelers from the UK who are not Finnish citizens or residents from entry due to the same concerns.

Authorities advise that travelers can shorten the necessary self-isolation period by taking two voluntary COVID-19 tests. Travelers should take the first test up to 72 hours before arrival, or at the airport upon arrival for Finnish citizens and residents, and the second test no earlier than 72 hours after entry into the country. Such individuals should remain in self-isolation until the result is known. If the test result is negative, the self-isolation period ends; if the test result is positive, the person will be placed in quarantine until they have recovered.

MDTI-WA-2021-0002
Date: 11 January 2021

DENMARK- UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF 11 JANUARY 2021

Authorities in Denmark are tightening international entry restrictions as part of ongoing efforts to limit the spread of a new strain of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). From 1700 Jan. 9 through at least Jan.17, all arriving international air passengers above the age of 12 must present proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a test taken no more than 24 hours before boarding their flights. In addition, all passengers must have a justifiable purpose for their travel, such as work, study, or family reasons. Flights from Greenland and the Faroe Islands are exempt from the requirement. Furthermore, authorities are recommending against all travel abroad Jan. 8-17.

Tighter entry restrictions remain in effect for travelers from the UK and South Africa as of Jan. 8. Authorities have barred travelers from the UK, and South Africa who are not Danish citizens or permanent residents from entering Denmark until Jan. 17, except for urgent family purposes. The move is directly related to concerns over the new COVID-19 virus mutation.

MDTI-WA-2021-0001
Date: 11 January 2021

UNITED KINGDOM- UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF 11 JANUARY 2021

Effective Jan. 8, all international travelers to England and Scotland must present proof of a negative coronavirus disease (COVID-19) test result before departing their host nation; tests must be taken no more than 72 hours prior to departure. UK nationals returning from overseas are also subject to this restriction. Furthermore, travelers arriving from countries not on the government’s travel corridor list will still be required to self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival in the UK, regardless of the test result. Authorities in Wales and Northern Ireland will likely implement similar restrictions in due course.

Travelers arriving from or who have been in countries with elevated disease activity can reduce the required self-isolation period by taking a COVID-19 test at their own expense. Such individuals may be released from self-isolation upon receipt of a negative result. Nevertheless, travelers are not allowed to take the test until five full days have elapsed since the time they left a location not on the Travel Corridor List; test results may take up to 48 hours to return.

MDTI-WA-2020-1139
Date: 08 January 2021

EUROPEAN UNION – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF 08 JANUARY 2021

The European Council is maintaining its advice for European Union (EU) member states to restrict nonessential travel from outside the bloc as part of measures to combat the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). However, the European Council also maintains a list of countries with which it recommends member states relax entry restrictions due to positive data regarding the COVID-19 situation in those countries. As of Jan, 7, the following countries are on this list: Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand and China (provided they implement a reciprocal travel arrangement).

Countries participating in the measure comprise the so-called “EU+ Area,” which includes all EU Schengen Area member states; non-Schengen EU members Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, and Romania; and the four non-EU Schengen-associated states of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. The European Council’s recommendation is advisory only; individual member states retain the authority to unilaterally deny travel from countries on the approved list or to permit travel with countries not on the approved list.

Additionally, the European Council issued advice Dec. 22 for member states to discourage all nonessential travel with the UK following the outbreak of a new variant of COVID-19 in that country. As a result, many countries have implemented tougher restrictions on travel with the UK including flight bans or testing and quarantine requirements for individuals arriving from the UK.

Moreover, following the end of the Brexit transition period Dec. 31 citizens of the UK are no longer being treated as EU citizens and are therefore subject to measures restricting travel to the EU from outside the bloc as per European Council recommendations. Persons exempted from the recommendations include family members of EU nationals, diplomats, foreigners with legal residency permits, cross-border and healthcare workers, and truck drivers transporting freight.

MDTI-WA-2020-1138
Date: 08 January 2021

JAPAN – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF 08 JANUARY 2021

The government continues to ban most foreign nationals from entering the country through Jan. 31 due to a new COVID-19 variant. Only Japanese citizens and resident foreign nationals can enter the country. The government is no longer honoring visas issued since Oct. 1. Officials require returning citizens and residents to present a negative COVID-19 test result obtained within 72 hours of departure. Inbound passengers with a negative test result can self-quarantine for 14 days, while passengers without test documentation must quarantine at designated locations.

THAILAND – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF 08 JANUARY 2021

Limited inbound tourist flights are operating. Cargo, emergency, and repatriation flights and government aircraft can continue operating. Thai authorities are allowing travelers from 56 locations to enter the country without visas. Passengers must still obtain a Certificate of Entry from a Thai embassy if they are foreigners, test negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours before the trip, provide evidence of a quarantine facility booking, and isolate for two weeks at the designated facilities upon arrival. Officials have increased the length of visas from 30 to 45 days. The 56 locations are Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bahrain, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, UAE, the UK, the US, and Vietnam. People from all other locations must still obtain a special tourist visa to enter Thailand; these travelers must also quarantine at designated facilities for two weeks upon arrival.

MDTI-WA-2020-1137
Date: 07 January 2021

CANADA – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF 07 JANUARY 2021

The land border between the US and Canada will remain closed through at least Jan. 21. The measure, which has been in place since March 21, does not affect trade or essential business travel. An earlier ban on entry for most nonresident foreign nationals to Canada also continues to be in place until at least Jan. 21. Under these measures, Canadian citizens and residents returning to the country can enter but must self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. Immediate family members of Canadian citizens or residents can also enter, provided they plan to stay for at least 15 days and are able to quarantine for the first 14 days of their stay.

Other nonresident foreign nationals allowed to enter must be traveling for essential reasons and must travel either from the US or be exempt from the restrictions by virtue of being temporary workers, international students, diplomats, aircrew members, or French citizens who live in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon. People working in trade, those who cross the border regularly, government officials, and others working in critical manufacturing may be exempted from the 14-day self-quarantine requirement, as long as they do not display any COVID-19 symptoms.

All international flights to Canada – except for trade and business flights or flights from the US, Mexico, the Caribbean, and St. Pierre and Miquelon – are landing only at Pearson International Airport (YYZ) in Toronto, Vancouver International Airport (YVR), Montreal Trudeau Airport (YUL), and Calgary International Airport (YYC). All air passengers must wear protective face coverings, and all maritime and land passengers are encouraged to do the same.

Starting Jan. 7, authorities in Canada will enforce new testing requirements for international air arrivals. All airline passengers from abroad aged 5 years and over must present a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 72 hours before departure to Canada. Persons with a negative PCR test result and who are authorized to enter Canada must still complete the mandatory 14-day self-quarantine.

Persons exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms are not allowed to board planes to Canada, including Canadian citizens. Canadian authorities have also banned individuals displaying symptoms associated with COVID-19 from domestic air and train travel until further notice. Travelers who are denied boarding are also barred from air or train travel for at least 14 days unless they can produce a medical certificate confirming that any symptoms are unrelated to COVID-19.

MDTI-WA-2020-1136
Date: 07 January 2021

CHINA – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF 07 JANUARY 2021

Authorities are maintaining a ban on foreign nationals traveling from specific countries, including Belgium, France, Russia, the Philippines, India, Italy, Bangladesh, the UK, Ukraine, and Ethiopia. The restrictions do not apply to Chinese nationals, foreign diplomatic passport holders, and individuals with C visas. Foreign nationals from other countries with valid residence permits for work, visiting family, and personal matters currently can re-enter China. Specially designated foreign workers with invitation letters issued by provincial or municipal government officials can also enter the country. Some immediate family members of foreign employees may obtain visas to enter for emergency humanitarian purposes. Diplomatic personnel and C visa holders – generally flight and shipping crew members – are exempt from entry bans. Officials have also banned flights to and from the UK until further notice.

Authorities require most arriving passengers from abroad to take a nucleic acid COVID-19 test at designated facilities in the country of origin within three days of departure for China. Officials require all authorized inbound passengers from specified countries to provide evidence of both nucleic acid COVID-19 and IgM antibody tests from designated facilities in the departure country within 48 hours of boarding flights and undergo additional COVID-19 tests in each country they transit. As of Dec. 4, the measure applies to travelers from Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belarus, Brazil, Bulgaria, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, Cote d’Ivoire, Denmark, Egypt, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Finland, France, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Guinea, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines, Poland, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tanzania, Thailand, Turkey, the UAE, the UK, the US, and Vietnam. Authorities will likely further expand the testing requirements to other countries in the coming days and weeks, possibly at short notice. Most travelers, regardless of nationality or residency, are barred from using land border crossings. Exceptions are in place for cargo transport, though backlogs remain possible at border checkpoints.

All authorized passengers must apply for a health certificate via the local Chinese diplomatic mission before travel. Chinese citizens must update their information through WeChat to obtain a health code before boarding flights. The government continues to conduct health screenings, including body temperature scans and nucleic acid testing, at ports of entry nationwide. Most international travelers must quarantine for 14 days, and officials generally allow nonresident passengers to stay in government-designated hotels at their own cost. However, some governments require inbound travelers to self-quarantine and undergo medical observation for three or four weeks. All arrivals must receive a negative COVID-19 test result in quarantine before release from designated facilities.

MDTI-WA-2020-1135
Date: 07 January 2021

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF 07 JANUARY 2021

MDTI-WA-2020-1134
Date: 07 January 2021

EUROPE – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF 07 JANUARY 2021

Spain: Most arrivals from outside of the EEA, Switzerland, Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, and Uruguay are prohibited. Exceptions are in place for EU nationals or residents, health care workers, goods and transport workers, other essential work, students, and for urgent family reasons. Authorities have suspended air and sea transport with the UK except for Spanish nationals and residents until at least Jan. 19 following the outbreak of a new strain of COVID-19 in the country. All permitted travelers arriving via air are required to fill out the Health Control Form within the 48 hours prior to arrival. After filling out the form, travelers will receive a Quick Response Code (QR) that they must show at the port of entry. Travelers from countries designated as high risk by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) must possess a negative COVID-19 test taken within the 72 hours prior to arrival. The document must be in Spanish or English and can be submitted in either electronic or paper format. Passengers who attempt to travel without this requirement may be prohibited from boarding by the travel provider. Individuals who arrive in Spain without this requirement or displaying COVID-19 symptoms will be required to take a test on arrival. The ECDC updates its country risk assessments on a weekly basis.

Luxembourg: There are currently no entry restrictions on travelers from countries within the European Union or Schengen Area, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City. Moreover, residents of Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, and Uruguay are also permitted to enter the country. Most travelers from other countries, including the UK, remain prohibited from entry. Exceptions are in place for essential work, study, and family reasons; all such individuals arriving via air require evidence of a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) COVID-19 test result taken within 48 hours prior to departing for Luxembourg; those in possession of a negative test result taken within the previous 48-72 hours must take a further test on arrival and self-isolate until the result has been confirmed.

Italy: Authorities maintain extensive international travel restrictions. As of Dec. 23, travelers from the UK will be barred from entry unless they are official residents of Italy or are traveling for an essential reason, which must be declared in writing. Travelers must present proof of a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than 72 hours before departure. Travelers must also take a COVID-19 test on arrival in Italy. Regardless of the test results, travelers from the UK are also required to present themselves to their local health authorities in Italy and self-isolate for at least 14 days.

Aside from the UK-specific measures, other international entry restrictions remain in force. All arrivals must self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival; this requirement also applies to travelers from EU countries who had previously been exempt. All international arrivals, except those from San Marino and Vatican City, must also fill out a self-declaration form prior to arrival, which must be presented to authorities upon request. Travel from outside the EEA, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore, Switzerland, or Uruguay is currently prohibited except when conducted for study, proven work needs, or urgent reasons such as health; all such travelers must register and self-isolate for 14 days on arrival. Transport and health workers, individuals in transit through Italy, and those staying in Italy for less than 120 hours (five days) for work reasons are not required to self-isolate.

Portugal: Authorities in Portugal permit entry for travelers from the EU and Schengen Area countries, Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Singapore, Thailand, and Uruguay; these arrivals do not require a COVID-19 test unless their final destination is the Azores or Madeira. Travel from other countries remains prohibited, except for limited essential reasons, including EU citizens and residents returning home, reuniting with family, and commuting to essential work or study. All such arrivals are required to submit a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before boarding; however, Portuguese nationals and residents may arrange to take the test on arrival at their own expense.

MDTI-WA-2020-1133
Date: 06 January 2021

GERMANY – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF 06 JANUARY 2021

Authorities will amending certain international entry restrictions from Jan. 10. From this date travelers arriving in the country who have visited risk areas within the previous 10 days will have provide a negative COVID-19 test no older than 48 hours upon arrival, or take a test as soon as they arrive in the country. In addition, these travelers will need to self-isolate for 10-days; the self-isolation can be ended on day five with a second negative test. As of Jan. 5, Germany’s federal disease control and prevention agency, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), has designated numerous locations, including the UK, Spain, and Portugal as risk areas.

Most travelers from outside of the EEA, with the exception of those from Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Switzerland, Thailand, the UK, and Uruguay, remain prohibited from entry. Limited exceptions are made for EEA citizens and residents, diplomats, essential workers, students, freight and transport workers, individuals in transit, and for urgent reasons decided on a case-by-case basis. All such arrivals are subject to a mandatory self-isolation period as detailed above; this measure does not apply to transport and freight workers.

MDTI-WA-2020-1132
Date: 06 January 2021

DENMARK – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF 06 JANUARY 2021

As part of ongoing efforts to limit the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), authorities in Denmark are tightening domestic restrictions beginning Jan. 6. Public gatherings will be limited to five people, a decrease from the previously allotted 10 people. In addition, authorities strongly advise against all private gatherings of more than five people.

International travel restrictions on most foreign nationals remain in effect. Authorities categorize countries as “open,” “quarantine,” or “high-risk” based on infection rates and other health indicators in those countries. Travelers from open countries are permitted entry to Denmark for any reason and are not required to present a negative COVID-19 test result. Travelers from quarantine countries or regions may travel into Denmark if they have a recognizable purpose for the trip. Travelers from banned countries and regions are only permitted entry for specifically defined purposes, such as work, study, or family reasons, and must present a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival.

MDTI-WA-2020-1131
Date: 06 January 2021

CANADA – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF 06 JANUARY 2021

The land border between the US and Canada will remain closed through at least Jan. 21. The measure, which has been in place since March 21, does not affect trade or essential business travel. An earlier ban on entry for most nonresident foreign nationals to Canada also continues to be in place until at least Jan. 21. Under these measures, Canadian citizens and residents returning to the country can enter but must self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. Immediate family members of Canadian citizens or residents can also enter, provided they plan to stay for at least 15 days and are able to quarantine for the first 14 days of their stay.

Other nonresident foreign nationals allowed to enter must be traveling for essential reasons and must travel either from the US or be exempt from the restrictions by virtue of being temporary workers, international students, diplomats, aircrew members, or French citizens who live in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon. People working in trade, those who cross the border regularly, government officials, and others working in critical manufacturing may be exempted from the 14-day self-quarantine requirement, as long as they do not display any COVID-19 symptoms.

All international flights to Canada – except for trade and business flights or flights from the US, Mexico, the Caribbean, and St. Pierre and Miquelon – are landing only at Pearson International Airport (YYZ) in Toronto, Vancouver International Airport (YVR), Montreal Trudeau Airport (YUL), and Calgary International Airport (YYC). All air passengers are required to wear protective face coverings, and all maritime and land passengers are encouraged to do the same. Officials in Canada have extended a ban on all commercial and private passenger flights from the UK until at least Jan. 6, due to the detection of a variant strain of COVID-19 found in that country.

Persons exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms are not allowed to board planes to Canada, including Canadian citizens. Canadian authorities have also banned individuals displaying symptoms associated with COVID-19 from domestic air and train travel until further notice. Travelers who are denied boarding are also barred from air or train travel for at least 14 days unless they can produce a medical certificate confirming that any symptoms are unrelated to COVID-19.

Canada maintains tightened border restrictions for persons transiting the country on essential travel to reach Alaska from the 48 contiguous US states (“Lower 48”). Foreign nationals traveling by land to Alaska from the US Lower 48 may only enter Canada through one of five border crossings: Abbotsford-Huntington, Kingsgate, or Osoyoos in British Columbia; North Portal, Saskatchewan; or Coutts, Alberta. Travelers who attempt to enter Canada through any other border crossing will be denied entry and rerouted to an approved crossing. Persons entering Canada from Alaska may use any border crossing. The regulations specify that travelers must take the most direct route through Canada and avoid stopping at leisure sites or national parks. Violators could face fines.

MDTI-WA-2020-1130
Date: 06 January 2021

BELGIUM – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF 06 JANUARY 2021

Authorities in Belgium are maintaining measures introduced to combat the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) as of Jan. 5. Travel is permitted with EU and Schengen Area countries, as well as Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Singapore, and Thailand, though in many cases travel is strongly discouraged. Nonessential travel from all other locations is prohibited. All arrivals staying in Belgium for more than 48 hours are required to fill in a Passenger Locator Form within 48 hours before arrival.

In addition, the government has designated certain locations with high COVID-19 activity as “red zones.” As of Jan. 2, all countries are designated red zones except for Australia, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, and South Korea, and limited areas within Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Norway, and Spain. Travel with red zone countries is either strongly discouraged or prohibited. All individuals arriving in Belgium having spent 48 hours or more in a red zone must self-isolate on arrival and may only leave self-isolation following a negative result for a COVID-19 test taken no less than seven days after arrival. Additionally, non-residents having spent 48 hours in a red zone must present proof of a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival before entering the country, while residents may instead take a test on arrival; exceptions apply to crossborder commuters.

MDTI-WA-2020-1122
Date: 04 January 2021

EUROPE – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF JANUARY 4, 2021

France: Under most circumstances, travelers from EU and Schengen Area states, as well as those from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, Switzerland, South Korea, and Thailand, can enter France. Most travelers from other locations remain barred from entry, though exceptions are made for French nationals and residents, as well as for persons traveling for what authorities deem to be essential reasons, such as certain necessary workers, diplomats, students, and those visiting for urgent family business. All such arrivals must complete a form declaring themselves to be COVID-19 free and present a certificate declaring their reason for travel. Permitted travelers arriving from Algeria, Bahrain, China, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ecuador, Iraq, Iran, Israel, Lebanon, Morocco, Panama, South Africa, Russia, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, the US, and Zimbabwe must present proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours prior to boarding their flights. Permitted arrivals from other countries must meet the same condition, take a test on arrival, and self-isolate until the result is known or for 14 days.

Tighter entry restrictions remain in effect for travelers from the UK through at least Jan. 6, as part of France’s response to a new strain of COVID-19 discovered primarily in the southeast of England, including London. Most travelers from the UK remain barred from entry. Entry will be permitted for French citizens and citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA), as well as permanent residents of the EU and individuals who are engaging in essential travel. Such individuals must produce proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a test taken no more than 72 hours before departure.

Norway: As part of ongoing efforts to reopen the economy amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, health officials in Norway will lift the country’s travel ban on flights with the UK beginning 1600 Jan. 2. The government, however, continues to advise against all international travel that is not essential. Norway was among several European nations, which suspended travel with the UK after a more contagious variant of COVID-19 was discovered in England. In addition to lifting the travel ban with the UK, health officials are mandating COVID-19 tests for all people arriving in Norway, regardless of a traveler’s point of origin, either directly upon arrival or up to 24 hours after entering the country.

Previously imposed health measures and regulations will remain in effect until at least Jan. 10:
– Travelers from the UK must self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival.
– Travelers must take a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19 within 24 hours of arrival in Norway. A second test must be taken no sooner than day seven after arrival.
– All travelers who arrived in Norway in the 14 days prior to Dec. 21 must take a PCR test for COVID-19 as soon as possible.
– Quarantine exemptions in place for incoming travelers of certain nationalities will not apply when those travelers are arriving from the UK.

Travelers from most other countries are currently prohibited from entering Norway. Individuals with close family in Norway or who have been granted permits to work or study in the country are exempt from the travel ban but must meet the same entry requirements as those traveling from a high-risk location. Authorities continue to advise against nonessential travel abroad.

Greece: Government has temporarily reduced its mandatory quarantine period for arriving travelers from 10 days to three days; the reduced requirement will be in effect through Jan. 7. All passengers arriving in Greece must present a negative result from a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 72 hours prior to arrival. Additionally, travelers must also take a rapid antigen test upon entry and comply with the self-isolation requirement, even if the test is negative. In the event a traveler receives a positive COVID-19 test result, the individual will need to self-isolate until authorities advise otherwise. All international travelers must also complete Greece’s Passenger Locator Form. Authorities prohibit entry for all non-EEA nationals with certain exemptions, such as healthcare workers, permanent residents of an EU or Schengen Area country, diplomats, student visa holders, seasonal workers, passengers in transit, and transport workers. Citizens of Australia, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Russia, Singapore, Rwanda, South Korea, Switzerland, Thailand, the UK, the UAE, and Uruguay are also exempt from the travel ban.

MDTI-WA-2020-1121
Date: 04 January 2021

ASIA – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF JANUARY 4, 2021

Brunei: Most foreign nationals, including long-term pass holders, remain banned from entering or transiting Brunei. Exemptions include foreigners whose work relates to matters of national interest, such as the oil and gas sector and the transport of essential goods. Existing travel, student, and dependent visas remain suspended, with limited exceptions. People who can enter Brunei must test for COVID-19 before departure and upon arrival. Arrivals must quarantine between 2-14 days at government-designated facilities, depending on the risk level of the country of departure. Travelers can leave the isolation sites upon testing negative for COVID-19. Authorities will consider appeals from foreigners in special situations, such as those on scholarship studies or undergoing medical treatment in Brunei, to enter the country. Foreigners permitted entry in such cases must obtain a Bruneian citizen or entity as a guarantor.

Foreigners with essential or business needs can transit through Brunei by land, with protocols in place. Measures include limiting the travel duration, such as one hour for those going from Labu to Ujong Jalan in eastern Brunei or three hours for travelers from Kuala Lurah to Sungai Tujoh in western Brunei. Foreigners, including transit passengers and commercial vehicle operators, must provide results of a negative COVID-19 swab test taken within seven days before arrival in Brunei. Registered persons must pay entry/exit fees of BND 3 (USD 2.3) for each one-way trip across land borders; exempted travelers include children below the age of two years, diplomats and families, and those with emergency passes or on official duty. Regular travelers – with proof of at least 15 monthly round trips to Brunei – may apply online for the Frequent Commuters Pass. Foreign-registered vehicles must also register with the Land Department and obtain a paid vehicle pass sticker.

Singapore: Most short-term visa holders, including work pass holders who do not provide essential services, remain banned from entering Singapore. Long-term visit pass and student pass holders must apply for official approval before traveling to Singapore. Incoming passengers must submit online health declarations up to three days before arrival. Foreign nationals traveling from most locations must test negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours before the trip. While foreigners traveling from locations that officials consider to be lower-risk do not need to take pre-trip tests, these passengers must undergo tests upon arrival.

Arrivals from most locations must serve their SHN for 14 days at designated sites. Travelers who spent the previous two weeks in mainland China, Macau, and Taiwan can serve a seven-day SHN in their residence. Arrivals from Fiji, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka, and Thailand can serve SHN at their residence for two weeks if they fulfill specific requirements. The travelers must have spent the previous 14 days in the aforementioned locations and must serve their SHN at the accommodation alone or with other travelers with the same travel history.

Long-term pass holders and short-term travelers who have been in the UK within the previous 14 days cannot enter Singapore. Singaporean citizens and PRs with recent travel history in the UK are subject to a two-week quarantine at dedicated SHN facilities. Additionally, short-term travelers who have been in Australia’s New South Wales (NSW) within the previous two weeks cannot enter Singapore. Singaporean citizens, PRs, and long-term pass holders with recent travel history in NSW must isolate at their own residence for a week. Authorities are allowing entry for all travelers from Taiwan, Brunei, mainland China, New Zealand, Vietnam, and areas in Australia outside of NSW. The passengers must have remained in the mentioned locations for the last 14 days before entry, register online within one week before entry, and self-isolate until on-arrival test results are ready. Travelers who test negative are exempt from the typical compulsory SHN requirement for arrivals.

Malaysia: Most foreigners remain banned from entering the country; exemptions are in place for resident diplomats, foreign spouses and dependents of Malaysian citizens, long-term pass holders, and expatriate employees working in essential industries and their dependents, among others. Travelers must seek advance approval from authorities, undergo tests for COVID-19 upon arrival, and download the MySejahtera contact tracing application. Arrivals must quarantine at designated sites for 10 days. Foreigners may transit at Malaysian airports as long as they do not pass through immigration points. Malaysian nationals remain banned from traveling abroad, with limited exceptions. Sabah State bans entry for travelers, including long-term pass holders, from 23 countries. Exceptions are in place for diplomats and their dependents, workers in the oil and gas industry, and vessel crew. The affected countries include Argentina, Bangladesh, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Iran, Iraq, Mexico, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Spain, Turkey, the UK, and the US. Sabah allows entry for visitors from Brunei for any purposes, provided these travelers test negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours before travel and arrive by air or land.

Macau: Officials continue to ban most foreign nationals from entering Macau. Exceptions are in place for some foreign nationals related to Macau residents, students, and essential workers. Authorities require a 21-day quarantine for all arrivals outside of Taiwan and mainland China. Authorities allow residents of mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Macau to enter the territory if they have not been to any other locations in the previous 21 days. Individuals from low-risk areas of mainland China must submit a negative nucleic acid COVID-19 test taken within seven days upon arrival. Travelers from Hong Kong must submit a negative COVID-19 test issued within 24 hours of arrival and undergo 21 days of quarantine under medical observation. Visitors from Taiwan need to submit a negative COVID-19 test administered within seven days of arrival and quarantine for 14 days. Travelers must pay quarantine fees of USD 700; locals are exempt from the quarantine fee for their first entry but must pay for subsequent quarantine periods unless traveling for select purposes.

Indonesia: Indonesia continues to adjust restrictions to stem the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) as of Jan. 4. Authorities have suspended the entry of foreign citizens through Jan. 14 due to concerns over a new COVID-19 strain. Exemptions are in place for high-level state visits and holders of Limited Stay Permit Cards, among others; the government’s level of enforcement is unclear. Returning Indonesian citizens and foreigners who can still enter the country must present evidence that they have tested negative for COVID-19 within 48 hours before departure, quarantine for five days at designated facilities upon arrival, and obtain a negative result from another COVID-19 test before leaving the isolation premises. A nationwide public health emergency remains in effect until further notice. Enhanced testing requirements for domestic travel remain in effect through Jan. 8. All air, rail, and sea passengers aged above 12 years must produce negative results of a rapid antigen or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19 within a specified duration when undertaking select domestic trips. Other passengers may continue traveling with a rapid antigen test result taken no longer than 14 days before travel. All international or non-rail domestic travelers must register on the Health Alert Card (eHAC) mobile application before travel and are advised to download the PeduliLindungi contact-tracing application.

Saudi Arabia: The Saudi government has lifted a ban on all international flights and the closure of its land and sea borders to travelers effective 1100 Jan. 3. Some restrictions remain in place over concerns of a new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) variant. Non-Saudis arriving from the United Kingdom, South Africa, and other countries where a new variant of the virus has been detected must remain outside of these countries for 14 days before entering the Kingdom. Saudi nationals are permitted entry into the Kingdom from countries where the new variant has been found but will have to quarantine for 14 days and be subject to two PCR exams. The move follows a number of more targeted travel bans by several other countries in reaction to the new disease variant, which was initially discovered in the southeast of England. Arrivals from non-restricted areas will be subject to a maximum of seven days quarantine; however, the quarantine period will be reduced to three days upon the completion of a PCR test.

MDTI-WA-2020-1120
Date: 29 December 2020

INDIA- UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 29, 2020

Officials have banned flights to and from the UK through 2359 Dec. 31 due to concerns over a new COVID-19 strain. Those who have entered India with a travel history to the UK are likely to be contacted by local health officials for mandatory testing and enhanced quarantine. Authorities are advising Indian citizens to delay all nonessential international travel. Officials allow persons of all nationalities to enter the country through air or seaports on any visa type other than tourism. Indian consulates will issue new visas upon approval; authorities will also consider existing visas – except electronic, medical, and tourist categories – as valid. Foreign nationals already in the country can apply online to avail of a free visa extension valid for 30 days after regular international commercial flights resume.

Officials allow some foreign citizens, residents, and long-term visa holders stranded in India to buy seats on flights leaving India. The flights operate primarily to repatriate stranded Indian nationals. These flights serve airports in several countries, including the US, Bangladesh, Malaysia, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and multiple Central Asian nations.

MDTI-WA-2020-1119
Date: 29 December 2020

SOUTH AFRICA- UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 29, 2020

As of Dec. 28, South African authorities are maintaining various international travel restrictions to curb COVID-19 transmission.

Travelers departing South Africa will be subject to screening. Those found to have had COVID-19 may be subject to further testing. The outcome of the test will determine whether or not the person may depart the country, as determined by the Director-General of Health or a delegated person. Travelers testing positive will need to self-isolate; this may take place at one’s private residence.

MDTI-WA-2020-1118
Date: 29 December 2020

RUSSIA- UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 29, 2020

Authorities in Russia have extended the existing suspension of all commercial flights with the UK which they implemented in response to a new strain of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) that had been discovered primarily in the southeast of England, including London. The measure was initially slated to expire on Dec. 29 but will no remain in effect until at least 2359 Jan. 12. Moreover, all persons arriving from UK must self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival in Russia.

Aside from the UK flight suspension, international flights are operating between Russia and more than 30 countries, including Armenia, Belarus, Cuba, France, Greece, Germany, the Czech Republic, Italy, Israel, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Netherlands, Serbia, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Turkey, and the US. However, the availability of flights is still dependent on COVID-19 restrictions in destination countries. Additionally, flights with low demand could be canceled or merged with other scheduled departures. Foreign air passengers must present proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a test performed no more than 72 hours prior to their departure for Russia; Russian citizens must produce a negative COVID-19 test within three days upon arrival or self-isolate for 14 days. Foreigners are not allowed entry for tourism purposes.

MDTI-WA-2020-1117
Date: 29 December 2020

KUWAIT- UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 29, 2020

Authorities in Kuwait plan to resume international commercial flights beginning Jan. 1 and reopen the nation’s land and sea borders between the hours of 0900-1500 beginning Jan. 2. Kuwait had previously suspended all commercial flights and closed the country’s land and sea borders from Dec. 21 amid concerns regarding the spread of a newly discovered coronavirus disease (COVID-19) strain. The closure does not apply to cargo operations.

Prior to the flight suspension, authorities were permitting Kuwaiti nationals and residents to fly into and out of the country. Special entry directives implemented to control the spread of COVID-19 require arrivals to produce proof of having tested negative for the virus using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test performed no more than 96 hours before their departure for Kuwait. Travelers will not be permitted entry to Kuwait if, in the preceding 14 days, they have been in a country Kuwait considers high risk for COVID-19. Upon arrival, all travelers are subject to a mandatory 14-day quarantine and must provide proof of insurance with COVID-19 coverage. Travelers must also download and register with the “Shlonik” application before traveling.

MDTI-WA-2020-1116
Date: 29 December 2020

MYANMAR- UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 29, 2020

International commercial passenger flights remain suspended through at least Dec. 31, though relief and cargo flights can continue operating. Additionally, authorities may also allow special flights to transport citizens to and from Myanmar on a case-by-case basis. Visa-on-arrival and e-visa services remain suspended. Exemptions to entry bans include resident diplomats and UN officials. Returning Myanmar nationals must undergo a 21-day quarantine at government-designated sites, followed by one week of self-isolation. Resident diplomats and UN officials may undergo quarantine at their residence for two weeks. Additionally, authorities also permit business trips for those working in important sectors, such as oil, gas, and power, from mainland China and Japan in a so-called “fast-lane” arrangement, with protocols in place. Safeguards for the fast-lane arrangements include requiring travelers to present a medical document attesting that they are COVID-19-negative no more than 36 hours prior to boarding flights, taking a COVID-19 test upon arrival in Myanmar, and isolating at designated facilities. The land border remains closed to passenger transit, though goods transport can continue.

MDTI-WA-2020-1115
Date: 28 December 2020

USA – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 28, 2020

US authorities have announced that effective Dec. 28, all persons traveling by air from the UK to the US will be required to present a negative coronavirus disease (COVID-19) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or antigen test taken no more than 72 hours before departing the UK. The new order is in response to a new strain of COVID-19 in the UK. Some international commercial airlines may require proof of a negative COVID-19 test for travel from the UK to the US ahead of Dec. 28.

The measure is in addition to the existing pandemic-related entry ban for most nonresident foreign nationals who have been in the UK and Ireland, as well as Brazil, China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau), Iran, Ireland, and the European Schengen Area within the previous 14 days. US citizens and legal residents who have traveled to a country on the restricted list within 14 days prior to their return are allowed to enter the country but are urged to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines in place specific to the destination they are traveling from. Officials have added exceptions for nonresident foreign nationals entering from the Schengen Area, UK, or Ireland to enter the US. Business travelers, students, investors, academics, and journalists, among others, may qualify for a national interest exception but must contact US diplomatic offices in order to apply.
Officials will also continue to enforce the closure of the nation’s land borders with Canada and Mexico to all nonessential travel through at least Jan. 21, 2021 due to COVID-19. The closures, initially implemented March 21, do not affect trade, movement of essential goods and workers, transport of food or medicine, or transit by cargo trucks. US citizens and legal residents returning to the country, as well as individuals traveling to attend educational institutions, are also exempt.

MDTI-WA-2020-1114
Date: 28 December 2020

ASIA – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 28, 2020

Indonesia: Most foreign nationals remain banned from entering and transiting the country. Exemptions are in place for permanent residents, diplomats, and transport workers, among others. Arrivals must produce documents stating they are free from COVID-19; travelers without the certificates will undergo tests upon arrival and isolate at government-designated sites until test results are released. Authorities advise arrivals to self-quarantine for up to 14 days.

Cross-border travel arrangements for business and official purposes are in place with mainland China, Singapore, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates. People entering Indonesia under the scheme must have a sponsoring Indonesian entity, test negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours before departure, and receive another test upon arrival. Indonesia has set up a similar scheme with Japan, though the start date is unclear. Officials also require people leaving Indonesia to produce certificates stating they do not carry COVID-19.

Japan: Government of Japan will ban the entry of foreign nationals into the country Dec. 28-Jan 31, 2021 due to a new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) variant. Only Japanese nationals and resident foreign nationals will be permitted to return during this period. Furthermore, visas issued since Oct. 1 will not be honored. Officials will require returning citizens and residents to undergo self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival in the country. In addition, since Dec. 27, they must present a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure to be permitted to self-quarantine; those without documentation may have to stay at designated quarantine facilities.

China: Authorities in mainland China have banned all flights to and from the UK as of Dec. 24. Officials stated that the measure is due to the spread of a variant strain of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) detected in the UK. It is unclear how long the ban will be in place. Separately, authorities are maintaining border restrictions, including testing requirements, and domestic restrictions in specific areas amid ongoing efforts to limit the spread of COVID-19. Officials have lifted most internal commercial and transport restrictions nationwide, though controls are highly likely in areas where COVID-19 outbreaks occur.

Authorities are maintaining a ban on foreign nationals traveling from specific countries, including Belgium, France, Russia, the Philippines, India, Italy, Bangladesh, the UK, Ukraine, and Ethiopia. The restrictions do not apply to Chinese nationals, foreign diplomatic passport holders, and individuals with C visas. Foreign nationals from other countries with valid residence permits for work, visiting family, and personal matters currently can re-enter China. Specially designated foreign workers with invitation letters issued by provincial or municipal government officials can also enter the country. Some immediate family members of foreign employees may obtain visas to enter for emergency humanitarian purposes. Diplomatic personnel and C visa holders – generally flight and shipping crew members – are exempt from entry bans. Authorities require most arriving passengers from abroad to take a nucleic acid COVID-19 test at designated facilities in the country of origin within three days of departure for China. Officials require all authorized inbound passengers from specified countries to provide evidence of both nucleic acid COVID-19 and IgM antibody tests from designated facilities in the departure country within 48 hours of boarding flights and undergo additional COVID-19 tests in each country they transit. As of Dec. 4, the measure applies to travelers from Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belarus, Brazil, Bulgaria, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, Cote d’Ivoire, Denmark, Egypt, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Finland, France, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Guinea, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines, Poland, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tanzania, Thailand, Turkey, the UAE, the UK, the US, and Vietnam.

Saudi Arabia: The Saudi government has extended its ban on all international flights and the closure of its land and sea borders to travelers through at least Jan. 3, 2021, due to concerns over the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) variant. Non-Saudi citizens currently in the country, however, will be allowed to leave. The closure also does not apply to freight and goods shipments from countries where the virus mutation has not manifested. The move follows a number of more targeted travel bans by several other countries in reaction to the new disease variant, which was initially discovered in the southeast of England. Saudi authorities could extend the closure depending on disease activity in the coming weeks.

Qatar: Qatari authorities have extended the mandatory quarantine requirements for all arrivals into the country through Feb. 15, 2021, to curb the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The quarantine period of one week remains in place for arrivals, regardless of the destination. Individuals, including nationals, residents, and visa holders, arriving from “high-risk” countries must quarantine at hotels, whereas individuals from “low-risk” countries can quarantine at home. The measures do not apply to those who use shared quarantine facilities; they must continue to quarantine for two weeks. Individuals who have not obtained a COVID-19 test 48 hours before arrival have to take the test upon arriving at Doha International Airport (DOH). Authorities will conduct a second COVID-19 test six days after arrival. Additionally, following the discovery of a new strain of COVID-19, individuals arriving from Denmark, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, and the UK must enter a seven-night quarantine at a government-designated hotel. Individuals are required to provide proof of hotel reservation before boarding their flights to Qatar

MDTI-WA-2020-1110
Date: 18 December 2020

MALDIVES – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 18, 2020

Maldives could exempt asymptomatic entrants with proof of recovery from COVID-19 within the previous 90 days before entry from testing and quarantine upon prior application and review. All other tourists and short-term visitors arriving in the country must present a negative COVID-19 test result upon arrival; the test must be no more than 96 hours before arrival. Inbound foreign travelers must reserve accommodations at approved accommodations; split stay between facilities must be approved by the Ministry of Tourism at least two days before departure. Transit passengers are free to move in public. While there is no mandatory quarantine for asymptomatic travelers, all persons entering the country must submit an online health declaration via the “Imuga” portal within 24 hours before travel. Authorities require non-tourist international arrivals and some domestic travelers to undergo a 10-day home quarantine. Officials may modify regulations based on a passenger’s nationality and travel history, and authorities could suspend international travel at short notice. Resorts and approved guesthouses are open; however, officials may enforce temporary movement restrictions at such sites in the event of confirmed or suspected COVID-19 cases. Authorities have advised Maldivian citizens to refrain from all nonessential international travel.

All entrants must register online before arrival and produce negative RT-PCR test results for COVID-19 taken within 96 hours prior to departure. Tourists are exempt from quarantine. Asymptomatic entrants with history of recovery from COVID-19 infection may avail testing and quarantine exemptions. Effective Dec. 20, returning Maldivians and work visa holders arriving at Male city are also not required to quarantine if holding negative COVID-19 test results; however, they will be advised to self-isolate at home for 10 days after arrival. Other categories, such as non-tourist foreign arrivals and those arriving at areas outside Male, must undergo a 10-day home quarantine. Any person staying for over 48 hours in the Greater Male region requires a pre-departure COVID-19 test within 72 hours before leaving the Maldives.

MDTI-WA-2020-1110
Date: 18 December 2020

UNITED KINGDOM – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 18, 2020

Authorities in the UK are maintaining international entry restrictions as of Dec. 17 as part of efforts to limit the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Effective 0400 Dec. 19, travelers from Namibia, Uruguay, and the US Virgin Islands will need to self-isolate for 10 days after their arrival in the UK.

More than 70 countries and overseas territories – including Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Norway, and South Korea – are currently on the UK’s Travel Corridor List. Travelers arriving from listed locations are exempt from the self-isolation requirement upon arrival provided they have not traveled to an unlisted country within the previous 10 days.

International passengers of any nationality arriving from or who, within the previous 10 days, have been in locations not on the Travel Corridor List must self-isolate for up to 10 days upon entry into the UK. The exact duration of self-isolation depends upon when the traveler last departed a non-exempted destination. Health officials could perform spot checks to ensure compliance. Persons without suitable accommodations are required to stay in facilities arranged by the government at their own expense. Freight drivers and healthcare workers are typically exempt from the requirement. All international travelers entering the UK must also fill out a passenger locator form providing contact details and their travel history over the previous 10 days.

Travelers arriving from or who have been in countries with elevated disease activity can, however, reduce the required self-isolation period by taking a COVID-19 test at their own expense. Such individuals may be released from self-isolation upon receipt of a negative result. Nevertheless, travelers are not allowed to take the test until five full days have elapsed since the time they last left a location not on the Travel Corridor List; test results may take up to 48 hours to return.

Senior executives, or individuals with senior managerial responsibility in a business organization, are exempt from quarantine requirements. The executives, whether visiting or returning, must be engaged in specific business activities that deliver a significant benefit to the UK economy, including those that create or preserve 50 or more jobs in the UK, or purchase goods or services for at least 100 million GBP (134 million USD) from a UK-based business with at least 50 employees. Senior executives, as well as aerospace engineers, data infrastructure maintenance personnel, elite athletes, journalists, IT workers, and seasonal agricultural workers, will no longer need to self-isolate upon entering the country.

MDTI-WA-2020-1109
Date: 18 December 2020

POLAND – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 18, 2020

Authorities are maintaining international entry restrictions as of Dec. 17. Citizens and residents of EEA member states, as well as those of Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Switzerland, Thailand, and Tunisia, are permitted to enter without restriction. Persons entering Poland from elsewhere, as well as individuals who have been close to people infected with COVID-19 or who live with a person who is self-isolating, must self-isolate for 10 days on arrival. Entry restrictions for most foreign nationals remain in place, except for the following:
– Spouses, children, or dependents of Polish or EEA citizens
– Foreigners who hold a Polish identity card (Karta Polaka)
– Foreigners who are permanent or temporary residents of Poland
– Students enrolled in Polish educational institutions
– Scientists who are conducting research or developmental work in Poland
– Foreigners with valid work visas

Poland has banned international flights connecting with several countries experiencing high COVID-19 activity. The list of such locations includes Armenia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Georgia, Jordan, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, and the US (other than connections to airports in the states of Illinois and New York). Entry restrictions remain in force on the land borders with Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine; however, some border crossings remain open.

MDTI-WA-2020-1108
Date: 18 December 2020

IRELAND – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 18, 2020

Authorities are maintaining international entry restrictions. Travelers from EU-designated areas of low COVID-19 activity (Green regions) will not need to self isolate; travelers from areas of medium COVID-19 activity (Amber regions) or areas of high COVID-19 activity (Red regions) will need to self-isolate for 14 days, which can be curtailed if they can produce a negative COVID-19 test result after five days. This requirement to self-isolate can be avoided for travelers from Amber regions if they are able to produce a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken within the three days prior to travel. Freight transport workers, maritime employees, aircraft pilots, and individuals traveling for an imperative business or family reason are exempt from these measures. All arrivals must fill out a passenger locator form indicating the address where they will be staying.

MDTI-WA-2020-1107
Date: 18 December 2020

BELGIUM – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 18, 2020

Authorities in Belgium previously updated the country’s international entry restrictions related to COVID-19. The government has designated certain locations with high COVID-19 activity as “red zones.” Travel with red zone countries is either strongly discouraged or prohibited. Most travelers entering from red zones must take a COVID-19 test on arrival and self-quarantine for up to seven days after which a second test may be taken. If this test returns positive, the self-quarantine period is extended by another seven days. Individuals who stay in a red zone location for less than 48 hours are exempt from this measure. As of Dec. 16, the red zone includes most nations worldwide except Ireland, Iceland, areas of Norway outside Oslo and Innlandet County, Rwanda, and South Korea.

Authorities have permitted travel to resume with EU and Schengen Area countries, as well as the UK, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Singapore, Thailand Tunisia, and Uruguay, though in many cases travel is strongly discouraged. Most nonessential travel from other countries remains prohibited, with some exceptions such as diplomats, health workers, and cargo transport staff; all such arrivals will require testing and seven days of self-isolation. National authorities require all international arrivals to fill out a Passenger Locator Form 48 hours before arrival. Individuals staying in Belgium for less than 48 hours and Belgian residents traveling abroad for less than 48 hours are not required to fill out the form.

MDTI-WA-2020-1106
Date: 17 December 2020

CHILE – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 17, 2020

As of Dec. 16, officials in Chile have amended national and local restrictions put in place to limit the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Specific measures vary by location and intensity based on local disease activity. A multiphase quarantine system remains in effect. In areas under Phase-1 quarantines, all individuals must remain in their homes every day unless they possess a safe-conduct pass. For those under Phase-2 quarantines, individuals must stay in their homes during weekends and holidays unless they have a safe-conduct pass. Some locations have advanced to Phase 3 or 4 with no quarantine mandates; in these areas, authorities continue to enforce nationwide restrictions and nonquarantine orders, such as capacity limits in businesses and school closures. Persons in areas under Phase-1 and Phase-2 quarantine orders cannot travel to other regions in the country. Those in areas not under quarantine orders may not enter areas that are subject to quarantines.

Those traveling to the country must fill out a health questionnaire before departure. Nonresident foreigners must present negative results from a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 72 hours before departure and purchase a health insurance policy that will cover at least USD 30,000 of COVID-19-related medical costs in Chile.

Chilean citizens and residents may enter without taking a PCR test but must quarantine for 14 days if they do so. All persons must fill out a form reporting on their health daily for their first 14 days in Chile. Until further notice, Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport (SCL) in Santiago will be the only airport accepting foreign nationals arriving from abroad.

MDTI-WA-2020-1105
Date: 17 December 2020

COSTA RICA – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 17, 2020

Foreign travelers are no longer required to provide a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test prior to entering the country. All travelers must still complete the required health affidavit and have sufficient insurance to cover lodging and health expenses. All nonresident foreign nationals, regardless of their origin country, are allowed to enter Costa Rica.

Facemasks are required at all times while traveling. Ground and maritime borders remain closed for nonresident foreign nationals until further notice. This measure does not affect cargo transport. Nationwide, all persons must wear protective facemasks that cover the nose and mouth while in indoor public areas or using public transportation.

MDTI-WA-2020-1104
Date: 17 December 2020

NORWAY – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 17, 2020

All EU and Schengen Area countries, along with the UK, remain designated as high-risk (red level), excluding Greenland, the Faroe Islands, and Ostrobothnia region and Ita-Savo Hospital District in Finland, which are designated as moderate-risk (yellow level) locations. Those arriving from red locations must present proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a test taken no more than 72 hours before entry; persons without such tests may be refused entry. Norwegian citizens and residents, as well as persons who come from Finland and Sweden regularly for work, are exempt from this requirement. Travelers from high-risk areas must also self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival. Travelers who do not have permanent residence in the country or a suitable place of residence upon arrival can stay in a hotel of their choice, providing they can document their self-isolation in accordance with official regulations; otherwise, they must stay in government-designated quarantine hotels. This also applies to persons traveling to visit relatives in Norway. Travelers arriving from moderate-risk locations are not required to self-isolate.

Travelers from most other countries are currently prohibited from entering Norway. Individuals with close family in Norway or who have been granted permits to work or study in the country are exempt from the travel ban but must meet the same entry requirements as those traveling from a high-risk location. Authorities continue to advise against nonessential travel abroad.

MDTI-WA-2020-1103
Date: 17 December 2020

USA – UPDATED COVID 19 RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 17, 2020

New York: Authorities in New York State have tightened certain restrictions in New York City effective Dec. 14, while updating the state’s micro-cluster zone metrics as part of their efforts to curb the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Under the current measures, incoming travelers who have spent over 24 hours in another state or in a country categorized at Level 2, 3, or 4 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) must self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. However, travelers who have tested negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours prior to their arrival in New York may enter three days of quarantine and take a second test on day four. If the second test is negative, the individual may exit quarantine.

Travelers who were out of New York State for less than 24 hours are exempt from the quarantine requirement; however, such individuals must take a test 96 hours after returning to the state. All arriving travelers are required to fill out a Traveler Health Form. Persons who do not fill out the form are subject to a fine and possible quarantine. All travelers, except those traveling by air, fill out an online form. Air passengers fill out a form at the airport. Travelers from the neighboring states of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Vermont, as well as essential workers, are exempt from all these requirements.

Travelers from countries categorized at Level 1 by the CDC are not subject to the quarantine or testing requirements. As of Dec. 14, there are 49 countries and territories at Level 1, including Australia, China, Ivory Coast, New Zealand, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Nevada: Authorities in Nevada have extended their current statewide restrictions on gatherings and certain business operations through at least Jan. 15 to curb the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Under the new directives, private gatherings are limited to 10 people from a maximum of two households, while public gatherings are capped at 25-percent of the venue’s capacity or a maximum of 50 people. Individuals over the age of nine must wear protective facemasks in all indoor or outdoor settings, whenever individuals from other households are around. All businesses must comply with social distancing standards and enhanced hygienic procedures. Businesses are responsible for ensuring all customers adhere to the requirements. Employers are also required to ensure that workers who directly interact with customers wear protective face coverings at all times. Moreover, companies are encouraged to allow employees to work from home whenever possible, resume operations in stages, and close common areas.

Idaho: As of Dec. 15, authorities in Idaho plan to keep the state’s current slate of coronavirus (COVID-19)-related restrictions in place until further notice. Idaho remains under a modified Stage 2 of its economic recovery plan due to increased disease activity. Moreover, Governor Brad Little has activated an additional 150 National Guard troops to assist in the state’s response, primarily by providing mobile testing support, decontaminating medical facilities, and participating in planning and logistics tasks. The move brings the number of guardsmen deployed in support roles to 250.

Under the current directives, gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited, except for religious ceremonies and political activities. In all cases, participants must adhere to social distancing guidelines. Residents with higher health risks should isolate at home, and all workers are encouraged to work from home whenever possible. Restaurants, bars, and nightclubs can continue operating provided all patrons are seated and tables are set at least 1.8 meters (six feet) away from each other. Facemasks are only required at long-term care facilities, although authorities urge all residents to wear them while in public.

Connecticut: As of Dec. 15, the slate of coronavirus (COVID-19)-related travel and business restrictions in effect in Connecticut remain unchanged as compared with mid-November. The list of states and territories from which travelers are subject to a mandatory 14-day quarantine upon arrival continues to include: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Guam, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, US Virgin Islands, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

Authorities have also issued a statewide advisory, recommending individuals to limit all nonessential trips outside of their homes 2200-0500. Additionally, officials in Connecticut maintain a three-tier COVID-19 Alert Map to recommend specific actions for municipalities with higher rates of COVID-19 infections. The map goes from yellow, the lowest risk level, to red, the highest risk level.

MDTI-WA-2020-1102
Date: 16 December 2020

MEXICO- UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 16, 2020

Authorities in Mexico City have increased coronavirus disease (COVID-19)-related restrictions effective Dec. 14. Under the new directives, non-essential businesses, including restaurants and retail stores, must close at 1700. Restaurants may operate on a carryout basis only and sales of street food are prohibited. In addition, vehicular traffic through the Historic District of the city will be heavily restricted, with a number of roads being closed. Residents are also urged to stay at home and wear facemasks in public.

Mexico’s land border with the US will remain closed to all nonessential travel through at least Dec. 21. The ban on recreational boat travel will also remain in effect. These measures have been in place since March under a mutual agreement between the two countries. Cargo transport between Mexico and the US is exempt. Officials in Mexico continue to advise residents to avoid all international travel.

MDTI-WA-2020-1101
Date: 16 December 2020

SOUTH AFRICA- UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 16, 2020

No new restrictions have been imposed on international travel. Three international airports are open for the entry and departure of foreign travelers, namely O.R. Tambo (JNB), Cape Town International (CPT), and King Shaka International Airport (DUR). Effective Nov. 12, 18 land ports of entry are fully operational; however, 35 border posts remain closed due to insufficient capacity for screening, testing, and quarantine. Small-craft passenger maritime travel is allowed to resume; however, the government continues to ban all cruise ships from docking. Those entering South Africa will be required to provide a negative COVID-19 test taken no longer than 72 hours before arrival in the country.

All travelers will be screened upon arrival. Those showing symptoms of COVID-19 will be required to take a test. Travelers who test positive will be subject to mandatory quarantine for up to 10 days at a designated facility. Authorities also require proof of accommodation, should they need to self-quarantine at the time of arrival in the country. Travelers departing South Africa will be subject to screening. Those found to have had COVID-19 may be subject to further testing. The outcome of the test will determine whether or not the person may depart the country, as determined by the Director-General of Health or a delegated person. Travelers testing positive will need to self-isolate; this may be done at one’s private residence.

MDTI-WA-2020-1100
Date: 16 December 2020

LUXEMBOURG- UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 16, 2020

Authorities in Luxembourg are maintaining measures introduced to combat the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) as of Dec. 15. There are no entry restrictions on travelers from countries within the European Union or Schengen Area, the UK, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City. Moreover, residents of Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, and Uruguay are also permitted to enter the country. Most travelers from other countries remain prohibited from entry. Exceptions are in place for essential work, study, and family reasons; all such individuals arriving via air require evidence of having tested negative for COVID-19 within 48 hours prior to departing for Luxembourg.

MDTI-WA-2020-1099
Date: 16 December 2020

TURKEY – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 16, 2020

Authorities have lifted many travel restrictions, including the nation’s intercity travel ban. Intercity rail travel has resumed on most major routes. International travel is allowed; Turkey’s air, land, and sea borders have reopened for most travelers. However, nonessential travel with Iran and Iraq remains suspended. All travelers are required to undergo a health screening on arrival. Individuals displaying symptoms must submit to a COVID-19 test and undergo quarantine if positive; the traveler must pay all costs related to testing and quarantine. Most businesses and facilities are permitted to reopen, provided certain hygiene measures are implemented.

MDTI-WA-2020-1098
Date: 16 December 2020

FRANCE – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 16, 2020

International travel restrictions on most foreign nationals remain in effect. International arrivals from the European Economic Area (EEA), as well as Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, Thailand, and the UK, are permitted to enter without restriction. Most travelers from other locations remain barred from entry, though exceptions are made for French nationals and residents, as well as for persons traveling on what authorities deem to be essential reasons, including certain necessary workers, diplomats, students, and those visiting for urgent family reasons. All such arrivals are required to complete a form declaring themselves to be COVID-19 free and present a certificate declaring their reason for travel.

Permitted travelers arriving from Algeria, Bahrain, China, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ecuador, Iraq, Iran, Israel, Lebanon, Morocco, Panama, South Africa, Russia, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, the US, and Zimbabwe must present proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours prior to boarding. Permitted arrivals from other countries must meet the same condition, take a test on arrival and self-isolate until the result is known, or self-isolate for 14 days.

MDTI-WA-2020-1097
Date: 16 December 2020

SINGAPORE – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 16, 2020

Officials continue to ban the entry of short-term visa holders, including work pass holders who do not provide essential services, with exceptions. Long-term visit pass and student pass holders must apply for official approval before traveling to Singapore. Incoming passengers must submit online health declarations up to three days before arrival. Foreign nationals traveling from most locations must test negative for COVID-19 not more than 72 hours before the trip. While foreigners traveling from locations that officials consider to be lower-risk do not need to take tests in advance, officials require these passengers to undergo tests upon arrival in Singapore.

Arrivals from most locations must serve their SHN for 14 days at government-designated premises. Travelers who spent the previous two weeks in mainland China, Macau, and Taiwan can serve a seven-day SHN in their residences. Arrivals from Fiji, Finland, Hong Kong, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Turkey can serve SHN at their residence for two weeks if they fulfill specific requirements. The travelers must have spent the previous 14 days in the aforementioned locations and must serve their SHN at the accommodation alone or with other travelers with the same travel history.

Authorities will allow entry for all travelers from Taiwan from Dec. 18. The same policy is in place for arrivals from Australia, Brunei, mainland China, New Zealand, and Vietnam. The passengers must have remained in the mentioned locations for the last 14 days before entry, register online on the Safe Travel portal at least one week before entry, and self-isolate until results of an on-arrival test are ready. Travelers who test negative are exempt from the typical compulsory SHN requirement for arrivals, though they must still use the TraceTogether application for contact tracing purposes.

Arrangements for cross-border business and official travels are in place with Brunei, Germany, Indonesia, and South Korea, as well as Guangdong, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang provinces and Chongqing, Shanghai, and Tianjin municipalities in mainland China. Travelers entering Singapore under the programs must have a sponsoring Singaporean government agency or company, seek prior approval from Singaporean authorities, and test negative for COVID-19 within 48-72 hours before departure. Travelers must test for COVID-19 again upon arrival, remain at their accommodation until the test returns negative, and adhere to controlled itineraries for the first 14 days of their visit.

MDTI-WA-2020-1096
Date: 16 December 2020

CHILE – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 16, 2020

As of Dec. 14, officials in Chile have amended national and local restrictions put in place to limit the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Specific measures imposed vary by location and intensity based on local disease activity. A multiphase quarantine system remains in effect. In areas under Phase-1 quarantines, all individuals must remain in their homes every day unless they possess a safe-conduct pass. For those under Phase-2 quarantines, individuals must stay in their homes during weekends and holidays unless they possess a safe-conduct pass. Some locations have advanced to Phase 3 or Phase 4, under which there are no quarantine mandates; in these areas, nationwide restrictions remain in effect and nonquarantine orders, such as capacity limits in businesses and school closures, continue to be enforced. Persons in areas under Phase-1 and Phase-2 quarantine orders are not permitted to travel to other regions in the country, and those in areas not under quarantine orders may not enter regions that are subject to quarantines.

Those traveling to the country must fill out a health questionnaire before departure. Nonresident foreigners must present negative results from a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 72 hours before departure and purchase a health insurance policy that will cover at least USD 30,000 of COVID-19-related medical costs in Chile.

Chilean citizens and residents may enter without taking a PCR test but must quarantine for 14 days if they do so. All persons must fill out a form reporting on their health daily for their first 14 days in Chile. Until further notice, Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport (SCL) in Santiago will be the only airport accepting foreign nationals arriving from abroad.

MDTI-WA-2020-1095
Date: 16 December 2020

BRAZIL – UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 16, 2020

Authorities in Brazil will likely maintain most of the government’s existing restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) through at least Dec. 31. Nonresident foreign nationals remain prohibited from entering the country by land and water, except as specified otherwise. Brazilian citizens, permanent residents, and their immediate family members, as well as foreign residents working for international organizations or foreign governments, or who are traveling for trade or humanitarian purposes, are exempt from the ban. The ban is currently slated to expire Dec. 16; however, authorities have typically extended it for 30 days upon each expiration date.

Apart from the overarching land border closures and as part of a joint agreement, the land border crossings with Paraguay – specifically at Foz do Iguacu, Ponta Pora, and Mundo Novo – are open. Foreign citizens are allowed to enter Brazil by air for visits of no longer than 90 days; travelers no longer need to provide proof of health insurance to enter the country.

MDTI-WA-2020-1094
Date: 16 December 2020

ISRAEL– UPDATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AS OF DECEMBER 16, 2020

Health officials in Israel reduced the nation’s mandatory coronavirus (COVID-19) quarantine period to 10 days effective 0800 Dec. 15 for persons in isolation who test negative for the virus twice. The first COVID-19 test must be taken at the start of the isolation period with the second being performed on the ninth day from the date of exposure to the virus; the two tests must be administered no less than 24 hours apart. The original quarantine period for travelers entering Israel and for Israelis exposed to confirmed COVID-19 carriers was 14 days. However, in November, health officials shortened the quarantine period from 14 to 12 days, contingent upon two negative COVID-19 tests.

The tourist areas of Eilat along the Red Sea and Ein Bokek along the Dead Sea have reopened to domestic travelers. Hotels, restaurants, strip malls, zoos, and other attractions in these areas have resumed operations. All visitors to these areas must present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival; local residents and workers must present a negative COVID-19 test taken within a week of entry or undergo a free, rapid test at one of the city’s entrances. Other tourist sites throughout the country will remain closed until further notice.