100620 – COVID-19 Report

This report intends to give the UTD Community a snapshot of the impact, preventative measures, and travel restrictions due to COVID-19 as reported by the linked official sources from the U.S., Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.

Be aware that reported travel restrictions impacting international travel to specific countries may not apply the same to travelers from all countries.

Please note the revision date (mmddyy) of this report, printed on the title of the post, and go to the direct sources linked for the most up-to-date information.  The information in this report may change without prior notice.

Impact

• British Virgin Islands * GOV.UK * British Virgin Islands is now exempt from the FCDO advice against all non-essential international travel.
• Israel * DOS * Reconsider travel to Israel and the West Bank due to COVID-19, travel restrictions, and quarantine procedures instituted by the Government of Israel and the Palestinian Authority respectively. Exercise increased caution in Israel and the West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest. Do not travel to Gaza due to COVID-19, terrorism, civil unrest, and armed conflict.   Some areas have increased risk.
• Multi-country * Communicable disease threats report, 27 September – 3 October 2020, week 40 * COVID-19.  Since 25 September 2020 and as of 02 October 2020, 2 055 355 new cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) (in accordance with the applied case definition in the countries) have been reported, including 39 836 new deaths. Globally, the number of cases has increased from 32 295 362 to 34 350 717, and the number of deaths has risen from 984 040 to 1 023 876. In the EU/EEA and the United Kingdom (UK), the number of cases has increased from 3 067 987 to 3404566 (+336 579 cases), and the number of deaths has risen from 187 876 to 190 763 (+2 887 deaths).
• Poland * GOV.UK * FCDO now advises against all non-essential travel to Poland, based on the current assessment of COVID-19 risks in the country.
• Republic of the Congo * DOS * Reconsider travel to the Republic of the Congo due to COVID-19. Exercise increased caution due to crime, and civil unrest. Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Republic of the Congo due to COVID-19. The Republic of the Congo has lifted stay at home orders, and resumed some transportation options and business operations.
• Seychelles * GOV.UK * Seychelles is now exempt from the FCDO advice against all non-essential international travel.
• St Maarten * GOV.UK * FCDO now advises against all non-essential travel to St Maarten, based on the current assessment of COVID-19 risks in the country.
• St Martin and St Barthélemy * GOV.UK * FCDO now advises against all non-essential travel to St Martin, based on the current assessment of COVID-19 risks in the territory.

Preventative Measures

• Australia * GC.CA * Curfew in effect in Melbourne has been lifted.
• Bahamas * GOV.UK * A public state of emergency is in place until 31 October under the Emergency (COVID-19) Orders, 2020. The measures are available at the Office of the Prime Minister website and are subject to change by the Bahamian government.
• British Virgin Islands * GC.CA * Preventative measures and restrictions are in place, including a nationwide curfew from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. During the curfew, stay inside your home or accommodations unless you need to: go to work if you are an essential worker, get essential goods, including food and medication, seek health care, leave due to an emergency. You must wear a face covering in public. 
• Chile * GC.CA * Movement restrictions and preventative measures are in place, including a nationwide curfew from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. The curfew begins at 8 p.m. in the Magallanes region. Local authorities have implemented a step-by-step plan to phase out the quarantine status. Restrictions vary depending on your location.
• Czech Republic * GOV.UK * The Czech government has declared a 30-day State of Emergency effective from Monday 5 October. It is mandatory to cover your mouth and nose in all indoor public spaces and on public transport. You should adhere to social distancing of 2m where possible when in public. Restaurants and bars are required to close between 10pm and 6 am and a maximum of six people are allowed to sit at a table.
• Czech Republic * GOV.AU * The Czech Government has declared a 30 day state of emergency from 5 October. This means there’ll be stricter measures on the number of people at events and may affect the operation of schools – see ‘Health’. Regional zones may be subject to additional restrictions, see ‘Travel’. Face masks remain compulsory inside public buildings and on all public transport, including privately run coaches and in taxis. If you’re in the Czech Republic, make sure your visa status is legal. For entry restrictions into the Czech Republic, see ‘Travel’.
• Dominican Republic * GC.CA * Preventative measures and restrictions are in place, including a nationwide curfew in effect from: 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. from Monday to Friday, 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. You must wear a face covering in public and in private common areas.
• Ecuador * GOV.UK * You can apply online for a safe passage certificate (‘salvo conducto’) if you need to move in a private vehicle (for example to a doctor’s appointment) on days on which your registration plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. Certificates formerly obtained from the Ministries of Interior and Foreign Affairs can be validated until 31 October 2020.
• Guatemala * GC.CA * Preventative measures and restrictions are in place. You must wear a face covering in public.
• Guyana * GC.CA * Preventative measures and restrictions are in place, including a nationwide curfew from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m.
• Hong Kong * GOV.AU * COVID-19 remains a risk in Hong Kong. Practice social distancing and wear a face mask in public spaces and on public transport. Follow the advice of local authorities and monitor media for the latest (see ‘Travel’). The new national security legislation for Hong Kong could be interpreted broadly. Under the law, you could be deported or face possible transfer to mainland China for prosecution under mainland law. The full extent of the law and how it will be applied is not yet clear. You may be at increased risk of detention on vaguely defined national security grounds. You could break the law without intending to. If you’re concerned about the new law, reconsider your need to remain in Hong Kong.
• India * GOV.UK * There is a phased lifting of lockdown restrictions. This may vary by state. Lockdown restrictions remain in containment zones until 31 October.
• Ireland * GOV.UK *Level 2 is currently in force for the whole of Ireland except Dublin and Donegal. Full details are on the Irish Government website.
• Kenya * GC.CA * Preventative measures and restrictions are in place and a daily curfew is in effect from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. You must wear a face covering in public.
• Lebanon * GOV.UK * Between 8am local time on Sunday 4 October and 6am on Monday 12 October, there will be additional localised lockdowns imposed on specific towns throughout Lebanon. Official and private institutions will be shut apart from hospitals, doctors’ surgeries and chemists and supermarkets for delivery only. All places of worship will be closed and all religious services cancelled. Social events and gatherings are banned. These restrictions do not apply to Beirut or other large towns in Lebanon, but you should check in advance before travelling.
• Madagascar * GOV.AU * There’s still a Health State of Emergency in Madagascar, but restrictions are easing with some small-scale recreational, social and religious activities now allowed. Curfews apply in some regions, including Analamanga and Diana. Domestic flights and ground transport have resumed. If you’re travelling by air, you must present a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test result before your travel, and road travellers should have relevant paperwork. Limited international flights are expected to resume in October. You must wear a face mask and follow social distancing measures. Regions are responsible for implementing local measures, and these measures may change with little notice.
• Mozambique * GOV.UK * Most shopping centres, markets, restaurants and cafes remain open. Bars are closed. Beaches are now open to the public, with social distancing measures in place. Wearing face coverings is compulsory in all public spaces.
• Myanmar * GC.CA * Preventative measures and restrictions are in place, including a nationwide curfew in effect from midnight to 4 a.m. You must wear a face covering in public. Stricter restrictions are in place in the Yangon region – except for the Coco Islands -, in Rakhine State as well as in additional townships in other states and regions. You need to stay inside your home or accommodations unless you need to: go to work, get essential goods, including food and medication, seek health care, leave due to an emergency. If you violate these measures, you could be fined and face imprisonment for endangering public health.
• Netherlands * GOV.UK * New national measures came into effect on 29 September to address a rise in the number of coronavirus infections. These measures will be in effect untill at least 20 October. Rules indoors: You can host no more than 3 guests in your home, garden or on your balcony. This is in addition to members of your own household and does not include children under the age of 13. In other buildings, no more than 4 people can form a group. This does not include children under the age of 13. The number of people in a room (e.g. a restaurant or cinema) is limited to 30 people. Establishments serving food and drink can accept no new customers after 9pm and must be closed by 10pm. Sports clubhouses will be closed. Restaurants, cafés and bars must ask guests to provide their names and contact details for contact tracing by the municipal health service (GGD) in the event someone is infected. Indoor spaces with a continuous flow of visitors, such as historic buildings, libraries and museums – but not retail businesses and markets – must operate using reservations on the basis of time slots. People working in contact-based industries must ask their customers to provide their names and contact details. Rules outdoors: Numbers for outdoor activities where there is no continuous flow of people are limited to 40. This includes children under 13 but excludes staff. Travel should be kept to a minimum.
• Nigeria * GOV.AU * There’s a nationwide curfew from 12am to 4am. It’s mandatory to wear a face mask in public spaces. Some restrictions on gatherings and business operations remain. Domestic and international flights have resumed. If you travel to Nigeria, you must have tested negative to COVID-19 in the previous 120 hours as a condition of boarding. You’ll need to self-isolate for a minimum of 7 days. All land borders are closed. If you overstay your visa because of COVID-19 travel restrictions, you won’t be penalised when you leave.
• Norway * GC.CA * Preventative measures and restrictions are in place and may vary depending on the municipality. In Oslo, you must wear a face covering on public transport and in public spaces where physical distancing is not possible. If you violate these measures, you could be fined for endangering public health.
• Pakistan * GOV.UK * Public transport has restarted across Pakistan with some restrictions. Domestic flight operations have restarted at all airports in Pakistan. Rail and bus travel has also restarted, including inter-city and inter-province travel. However, there are mandatory standard operating procedures for public transport including social distancing and restrictions on numbers of passengers. You must wear a face covering when in public across Pakistan including on public transport, punishable by fine.
• Papua New Guinea * GOV.AU * PNG may impose additional restrictions due to COVID-19, including lockdowns, at short notice. Masks or face coverings are mandatory in enclosed public spaces, aircraft and public transport. There is a maximum limit of 50 people gathering in public spaces. Domestic air travel is permitted but all passengers may be subject to a COVID-19 test (PCR) at the sole discretion of the provincial authorities. Those who refuse a test (where requested) may be quarantined for up to 14 days. You can’t enter the country unless you have an exemption from PNG authorities and have returned a negative COVID-19 test (PCR) within seven days prior to your arrival (see Visas). Subject to written approval by PNG authorities, a traveller who has spent the seven days prior to their arrival in PNG in Australia (with the exception of Victoria) may be eligible to quarantine for seven days upon arrival.
• Philippines * GOV.AU * The Philippines has implemented quarantine measures and restrictions for COVID-19 throughout the country, which change regularly. You should ensure you understand the requirements where you are staying. It’s mandatory to wear face shields on public transport. Follow the advice of local authorities and monitor the Australian Ambassador’s social media and the embassy website for major updates.
• Slovakia * GC.CA * Preventative measures and restrictions are in place. You must wear a face covering on public transportation, in closed public spaces and in outdoor spaces where the 2-metre physical distancing is not possible. If you violate the restrictions, you could be fined for endangering public health.
• Slovakia * GOV.UK * From 1 October, wearing face masks outside is required where two metre distancing is not maintained. It remains compulsory in most indoor situations, such as on public transport, in shops and when inside a restaurant (except while eating).
• South Africa * GOV.AU * South Africa is at ‘Alert Level 1’ of its COVID-19 response. There’s a curfew from midnight to 4am. International travel to and from South Africa has resumed, but leisure travel from high risk countries is still restricted. International air travel will be limited to Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban airports. If you travel to South Africa despite our advice, you’ll need proof of a negative COVID-19 test (PCR) taken 72 hours before you arrive. If you arrive without proof of a negative PCR test, you’ll be placed in mandatory quarantine at your own cost. Airlines must check all travellers have travel insurance before boarding. The South African Government has extended the validity of visas that expired during the lockdown period until 31 January 2021. Register with the Australian High Commission, and follow the High Commission’s website and social media for updates (see Local Contacts).
• Spain * GOV.UK * From 10pm local time on October 2, the Spanish Health Ministry advises regional governments to apply entry and exit restrictions in areas with populations of 100,000 or more, and whose COVID-19 incidence rate and ICU capacity are higher than the specified threshold. The municipality of central Madrid and some surrounding areas are affected by these measures. If you are travelling to your place of employment, visiting a medical centre or transiting Madrid to return to your place of residence, you will be exempt from these restrictions however, you may be asked to show evidence of your onward journey (i.e. certificate from employer, proof of medical appointment, train or flight tickets). You should refer to the regional and local authorities for further information regarding exemptions. These measures will come into force at 10pm local time on October 2 and will be in place until further notice.
• Sri Lanka * GOV.UK * The police have issued a local curfew in the Divulapitiya and Minuwangoda area in response to reports of a positive COVID-19 case in the community.
• St Lucia * GOV.UK * From 1 October there is no longer a state of emergency in place in St Lucia. All travellers must continue the use of face masks during on island-transportation and when in public places.
• Turkey * GC.CA * Preventative measures and restrictions are in place. These measures may vary depending on the province or city. You must wear a face covering in public at all times, including on public transportation and in private vehicles with at least two occupants. If you are a Turkish citizen or a resident of Turkey, you must request and present a HES (Hayat Eve Sığar) code to perform several types of activities, including using public transportation, renting accommodations or accessing public buildings and spaces. This requirement does not apply to foreign tourists. If you are a Turkish citizen or a resident aged 65 or older, you can only leave your residence or accommodations on a daily basis from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. You can obtain an HES code on the HES mobile app, on the e-Government website or by sending an SMS message to 2023. If you violate the restrictions, you could be fined for endangering public health.
• Turkey * GOV.UK * FCDO now advises against all non-essential travel to Turkey, based on the current assessment of COVID-19 risks in the country. Turkish citizens and residents must request a HES (Hayat Eve Sigar) Code for domestic and international flights, train and ferry travel. As of 30 September the HES code will also be required when checking into accommodation including hotels, motels, boarding houses, pensions, camps etc. Some provinces also require submission of a HES code upon entry to public buildings and banks. This does not apply to foreign tourists. This can be done through the e-Devlet system, the ‘Hayat Eve Sığar’ smartphone application and by SMS.
• Turks and Caicos Islands * GOV.UK * From 30 September until 5am 14 October only essential inter-island travel is permitted in the Turks and Caicos Islands, as defined in the Turks and Caicos Islands’ Health Regulations. If you wish to travel between islands, you’ll need prior authorisation from the Turks and Caicos Islands Ministry of Health. Screening is in place at all seaports and airports. Restrictions are also in place on travel by public transport until 14 October 2020.

Travel Restrictions

• Antigua and Barbuda * GOV.UK * On arrival, you will be subject to health screening. The Ministry of Health and Wellness of Antigua and Barbuda advise that all arrivals will be monitored for coronavirus for up to 14 days. In practice, tourists with pre-booked hotel accommodation will normally be permitted to travel to their accommodation after screening. If you’re staying with family, friends, in private accommodation or in your own place of residence, you will be subject to an interview to determine your suitability to leave for your private accommodation arrangements. You may be required to self-isolate for a period up to 14 days, at the discretion of the Quarantine Authorities. Those not deemed to have suitable private accommodation arrangements will be obliged to remain in government quarantine at their expense for between seven and 14 days. Failure to comply with any order, guideline or direction of the Quarantine Authority is considered an offence carrying a fine of up to XCD10,000 and/or six months imprisonment.
• Belize * GOV.UK * Belize is reopening to tourists (via International Airport only) with a phased approach from the 1 October. The initial phase is by using a ‘Tourism Safe Corridor’ for only approved ‘Gold Standard’ hotels and tour operators who have been trained to operate safely in this new environment. This will also limit interactions between guests and the local community to reduce the possible further spread of the coronavirus.
• Bulgaria * GOV.AU * There’s an Emergency Epidemic situation in Bulgaria until at least the end of November. If you’re travelling from a country with a higher COVID-19 risk, you may be denied entry to Bulgaria. Depending on your country of departure, you may be subject to quarantine measures and may need to present a negative COVID-19 test (PCR) taken no more than 72 hours before you travel (see Travel). If you transit through Bulgaria, you’ll be required to complete a declaration on arrival that you’re COVID-19 free, you aren’t under quarantine and you’ll follow Bulgarian health measures. You must wear a mask in most indoor public spaces.
• China * GOV.UK * From 28 September 2020, holders of valid residence permits attached to work, personal matters and reunion can re-enter China. Holders of expired residence permits can apply for a new one. You should check the eligibility of your visa with a Chinese Embassy or Consulate in the UK before booking travel.
• China * GOV.AU * Direct flights between China and Australia have significantly reduced. You may be permitted to enter China with a valid Chinese residence permit. If despite our advice you travel to China, you must provide a negative COVID-19 test prior to flying and you’ll be subject to 14 days mandatory quarantine on arrival. These requirements may change at short notice. Contact your nearest Chinese embassy/consulate or your airline to confirm. If you’re already in China, and wish to return to Australia, we recommend you do so as soon as possible by commercial means. Authorities have detained foreigners because they’re ‘endangering national security’. Australians may also be at risk of arbitrary detention.
• Costa Rica * GOV.UK * Any foreigner who entered Costa Rica as a tourist, after 17 December 2019 and before 31 October 2020, will have their visa waiver (usually 90 days) extended until 2 March 2021. There is no need to apply for this to be processed, it is applied automatically.
• Cyprus * GOV.AU * Entry requirements vary depending on where you’re travelling from (see ‘Travel’). There’s random COVID-19 testing of international arrivals at the airports. You may be refused entry if you don’t comply. Public health measures are in place. Face masks are compulsory inside most public and commercial spaces. There are limits on mass gatherings. Cyprus is also randomly testing segments of the population for COVID-19. Follow the advice of local authorities and comply.
• Dominican Republic * GOV.UK * The Dominican Republic has reopened its borders for land, sea and air. The Dominican authorities will administer a rapid diagnostic test to a percentage of randomly-selected passengers on arrival. Children under the age of five and aircraft crew members are exempt from this testing. Passengers showing COVID-19 symptoms will also be tested. Passengers who test positive will be isolated and attended at authorized locations.
• Fiji * GOV.AU * If you want to get home to Australia, there are weekly flights via Auckland. Follow the Australian High Commission on social media for updates on possible flights leaving Fiji (see Local contacts). If you’re travelling to Fiji and you hold a work or residency permit, you’ll need to seek approval to re-enter (see Travel). You’ll also need to provide the results of a COVID (PCR) test taken within 72 hours before you depart for Fiji, and quarantine for 14 days at your own cost.
• Gabon * GOV.AU * Gabon has partially reopened its borders, allowing a limited number of flights each week. It’s mandatory to wear a face mask in public. There’s a curfew in place from 8pm to 5am. If, despite our advice, you’re travelling to Gabon you must have a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test result within 14 days before travel, and will then need to quarantine for 15 days. Follow the advice of local authorities.
• Germany * GOV.UK * Northern Ireland Scotland, North East England, North West England, Yorkshire and the Humber and Wales have been designated as high risk areas. If you have been in the designated high risk areas in the two weeks prior to their arrival in Germany, you are required to proceed directly to your accommodation and quarantine for 14 days or until you can show evidence of a negative test result. Those who can provide evidence of a negative test taken in a European Union member state or a state with comparable quality standards less than 48 hours prior to arrival may be exempted from the requirement to quarantine.
• Germany * GOV.UK * Northern Ireland Scotland, North East England, North West England, Yorkshire and the Humber and Wales have been designated as high risk areas. If you have been in the designated high risk areas in the two weeks prior to their arrival in Germany, you are required to proceed directly to your accommodation and quarantine for 14 days or until you can show evidence of a negative test result. Those who can provide evidence of a negative test taken in a European Union member state or a state with comparable quality standards less than 48 hours prior to arrival may be exempted from the requirement to quarantine.
• Italy * GOV.UK * Entry to Italy from the UK is permitted – you no longer have to justify your reason for travelling. If you are travelling to Sardinia, you must register your trip in advance with the local authorities. There is no longer a requirement to take a COVID test prior to your arrival. If you have stayed in or transited through a small number of listed countries in the 14 days prior to entering Italy, you’ll need to self-isolate for 14 days on entering Italy. If you cannot do that for any reason, then entry to Italy may be refused. There are additional requirements for passengers arriving from Malta, Spain, Greece, Croatia and certain areas of France.
• Japan * GOV.UK * From 1 October, non-Japanese nationals who need to move to Japan to study, work or join family should be able to do so, subject to necessary visa requirements. Non-Japanese nationals wishing to visit for short-term business purposes are also permitted to enter, provided that they have a visa. However, the number of people permitted to enter Japan under these rules will be restricted, with priority given to those moving to Japan.
• Jordan * GOV.UK * From 23 September, passengers arriving in to Jordan are no longer subject to institutional quarantine, but will be required to complete self-isolation even if their PCR test result is negative. Passengers arriving from the green and yellow category countries are required to self-isolate for one week even if their PCR test result is negative. Arrivals from the red category countries are required to self-isolate for two weeks even if their PCR test result is negative.
• Jordan *  GOV.UK * From 23 September, passengers arriving in to Jordan are no longer subject to institutional quarantine, but will be required to complete self-isolation even if their PCR test result is negative. Passengers arriving from the green and yellow category countries are required to self-isolate for one week even if their PCR test result is negative. Arrivals from the red category countries are required to self-isolate for two weeks even if their PCR test result is negative
• Kenya * GOV.AU * International flights have resumed into and out of Kenya. Earlier visa rules allowing you to stay in Kenya after your visa expired ended on 14 September. You need to make arrangements to leave Kenya within 14 days of your visa expiring or apply for a resident permit or pass. If you travel to Kenya despite our advice, you’ll need to complete an online health surveillance form and have evidence of a negative COVID-19 test result taken 96 hours before you arrive. You may also need to quarantine at your own expense, depending on where you’re travelling from. Measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19 are being strictly enforced. Non-essential movement is restricted. There is an overnight curfew between 11pm and 4am. You must wear a face mask in public.
• Kosovo * GOV.UK * All foreign nationals entering Kosovo from countries where the overall risk of Covid-19 is assessed as “high”, according to the official ECDC list, must provide a negative RT-PCR test, no more than 72 hours old, to enter Kosovo. The official ECDC list is updated every two weeks. As of 28 September, UK nationals travelling from the UK to Kosovo do not require a negative test before arrival.
• Kyrgyz Republic * GOV.AU * Local authorities have implemented enhanced screening procedures and entry restrictions due to the COVID-19 outbreak. You need to have a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test taken no more than 72 hours before your arrival. You must carry the original test results with you. You may be required to take another PCR test upon arrival depending on duration of travel and/or exhibited symptoms. Further restrictions could be reintroduced at short notice. Contact your airline or nearest embassy of the Kyrgyz Republic to confirm visa and entry requirements.
• Kyrgyzstan * GOV.UK * A negative PCR test from no more than 72 hours before your arrival by air, or 120 hours by land, is now required for foreign citizens to enter Kyrgyzstan. If your journey is delayed and your results are outside the 72 hour period you will need to have a further PCR test on arrival. Requirements could change at short notice. Check with your airline before travel.
• Laos * GOV.UK * All arrivals testing negative for COVID-19 will have to undergo 14 days quarantine at designated locations, which include hotels (with all expenses covered by individuals or their organisations/companies).
• Latvia * GOV.UK * From 17 September the period of self-isolation is reduced from 14 days to 10 for asymptomatic travellers. Travellers who have been in contact with a COVID-19 infected person or who work in Latvia in the medical professions, as teachers, or as social workers are still required to self-isolate for 14 days.
• Latvia * GOV.AU * Travellers from within the EU and a small number of other countries, including Australia, can now enter Latvia. Depending on COVID-19 infection rates in the country from which you’re travelling, you may be required to self-isolate for 10 or 14 days. You will also have to complete a registration form on arrival (see Travel).
• Liechtenstein * GOV.UK * The borders with Switzerland and Austria have reopened but inspections may be in operation. Quarantine measures, which are in force in Switzerland also apply to Liechtenstein. From 28 September, travellers who have visited the UK in the past 10 days will be required to quarantine for 10 days on entry to Liechtenstein, regardless of nationality. Travellers entering Liechtenstein from certain countries have to quarantine for ten days, regardless of nationality.
• Lithuania * GOV.UK * British nationals travelling to Lithuania from a country where the incidence of COVID-19 has exceeded 25 cases per 100,000 of population in the last 14 days must self-isolate for 14 days. The self-isolation period can be shortened from 14 to 10 days if you gain a negative COVID-19 PCR test on or after your 8th day of self-isolation.
• Malaysia * GOV.AU * Malaysia’s Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) will be in place until 31 December 2020. While the RMCO is in effect, ‘social visit pass’ (tourist visa) holders, whose pass expired after 1 January 2020, will be permitted to leave Malaysia without incurring any penalty. This applies to foreign nationals whose social visit passes expired after 1 January 2020 only. To travel to Malaysia, you’ll need a ‘Letter of Undertaking and Indemnity’ approved by your nearest Malaysian diplomatic mission (see ‘Travel’). You’re not allowed to travel to Malaysia as a tourist. If you’re permitted to enter Malaysia, you must undertake mandatory 14 day quarantine at your own cost. A targeted Movement Control Order is also in place for Sabah including Lahad Datu, Tawau, Kunak and Semporna. Additional entry requirements, including COVID-19 testing and possible quarantine, are in place for travel from Sabah to Peninsular Malaysia and Sarawak.
• Malta * GOV.AU * Malta has restricted visitors entering, unless you’ve travelled from an approved (‘green’) area and have stayed there for 2 weeks before entering. Travellers from areas on the ‘amber’ list will need to provide a negative COVID-19 test (PCR) performed within 72 hours prior to arriving. You may be granted an exemption if you’re not from an approved area and your travel is for essential purposes. In those cases, other restrictions will apply. You must wear face masks or visors in enclosed public areas, including shops, the airport and on public transport. No more than 10 people can gather in groups in public spaces. You may be fined for not wearing a mask or gathering in larger groups.
• Mauritius * GOV.AU * Mauritius will reopen its international borders from 1 October. If you’re travelling to Mauritius you’ll be required to undertake a COVID-19 test no more than 7 days before your flight, as well as on arrival and then again at days 7 and 14. You’ll be required to undergo mandatory hotel quarantine for 14 days at your own cost. All economic, commercial and social activities have resumed normal operations, with hygiene and social distancing measures in place. Face masks in public, workplaces and on public transport are mandatory.
• Morocco * GOV.UK * British nationals living in Morocco, as well as their families, are allowed to enter Morocco. If you’re eligible to enter, you will have to provide a negative PCR test before boarding your flight or ferry to Morocco, with the results dated no earlier than 72 hours prior to departure.
• Netherlands * GOV.AU * You can enter the Netherlands if you’re travelling from certain countries (See Travel). But if you’re coming from a high risk area, you’ll have to self-quarantine in your own accommodation for 10 days. These arrangements could change at short notice. Check with your airline for the latest details. Follow the advice of local authorities.
• New Zealand * GOV.AU * A Managed Isolation Allocation System is being introduced on 5 October 2020. You’ll need to register to secure your place in managed isolation before departing for New Zealand (see Travel). New Zealand’s maritime border remains closed. If you’re travelling by small craft you’ll need an exemption to enter New Zealand waters. All of New Zealand is now at alert level 1, except Auckland, which is at level 2. You must wear a face covering on public transport in Auckland. Air New Zealand also requires all passengers to wear face coverings on flights. Bookings on flights to and from Australia are currently restricted due to the caps on the number of passengers allowed into each country.
• Peru * GOV.UK * The government has declared that commercial international travel will start on 5 October within the Latin American region. Passengers will need to wear a face mask and a face shield/visor and will need to have a negative result from a COVID PCR test taken 72 hours before the flight. Repatriation flights to Europe are expected to continue. Commercial internal travel is only permitted in regions and during dates and times that are not under lockdown.
• Peru * GOV.AU * Peru has resumed a limited number of international flights. You’ll need to carry a proof of negative COVID-19 (PCR) test result and a health affidavit form, both conducted within 72 hours of boarding your flight. You’ll also need to wear a facemask and a face shield at all Peruvian airports. A nationwide curfew and lockdown measures are in place. Follow the advice of local authorities and monitor media for the latest update.
• Portugal * GOV.UK * From 4am on 3 October, Madeira and Azores will be added to the list of countries and territories where self-isolation is not required on return to Scotland. This is already the case for England, Wales or Northern Ireland.
• Rwanda * GOV.AU * Kigali International Airport is open for commercial flights. If you travel to Rwanda despite our advice, you’ll need to show proof of a COVID-19 negative test from a certified laboratory taken within 72 hours of arrival. You’ll also be required to check into a designated quarantine hotel (at your expense) where a second COVID-19 test will be taken. A curfew is in place from 9pm to 5am. Non-essential movement is restricted and face masks must be worn in public.
• Serbia * GOV.AU * Dual nationals travelling on their Serbian passport need to undertake a self-assessment online (see Travel) before arriving in Serbia. Foreigners who are resident in Serbia and entering Serbia from Croatia, Montenegro, or Bosnia and Herzegovina will need to report to a local COVID-19 clinic within 24 hours of arrival. If you’re visiting Serbia from North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Romania or Croatia, you’ll need proof of a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test taken within 48 hours of arrival. You must wear a facemask indoors and on public transport. Monitor media and follow the Australian Embassy Facebook page for updates.
• Seychelles * GOV.UK * From 1 October, visitors from the United Kingdom will be allowed to travel to Seychelles under specific conditions as follows: A COVID-19 test must be performed no more than 48 hours before departure and you must be able to demonstrate a negative test result on entry. Upon arriving in Seychelles, visitors must stay in a designated hotel/establishment and may not leave the premises for 5 days. Another COVID-19 test will be performed on the fifth day of your stay. Following a negative test result, visitors will be free to travel within Seychelles. If your test result is positive, you will be required to stay in a designated ‘stay-safe’ until cleared by the Public Health Authority.
• Seychelles * GOV.AU * Seychelles airport has re-opened to commercial passenger flights. You’ll only be able to enter if you’re coming from an approved country where you’ve been for at least 14 days and can show a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test taken no more than 72 hours before travel. There are some exceptions for resident permit holders. You must stay at licensed accommodation establishments. Face masks are compulsory where social distancing measures can’t be maintained (see Local Laws). Yachts, superyachts and fishing vessels are allowed to enter Seychelles with prior approval.
• Singapore * GOV.AU * You may now enter Singapore for short-term visits if you travel from Australia (excluding Victoria). However, you can’t leave Australia unless you seek an exemption from Home Affairs. If you’re a long-term resident you still need to get approval to enter Singapore. You can transit Changi Airport if you’re travelling between Australian cities and certain locations in Asia, Europe and New Zealand provided you’re on Singapore Airlines, Silk Air or Scoot Airlines and connecting with the same airline. You can’t transit on flights operated by other airlines. Transit and flight options to/from Singapore change frequently. Contact Singapore Airlines for the latest flight and transit requirements. For further details on entry measures see ‘Travel’.
• Slovakia * GOV.AU * Slovakia has entry restrictions in place. If you’re an Australian citizen or resident already overseas and have been in a country with a higher COVID-19 risk in the last 14 days, you may be denied entry. You can enter without quarantine or testing if you’re coming from a country deemed as ‘low risk’. If you’re transiting you’re not required to quarantine or provide a negative COVID-19 test. See ‘Travel’ for details. Public health measures are in place due to COVID-19. Follow the advice of the local authorities 
• Slovenia * GOV.UK * From 29 September, the Slovenian authorities have confirmed that anyone arriving from a country on the Amber or Red List who has a negative Covid-19 test issued in an EU/Schengen country that is no more than 48 hours old will not be required to quarantine. Also from 29 September, the Slovenian authorities have confirmed that anyone arriving from an EU/Schengen country that is on the Amber List will not be required to quarantine. The UK is covered by this exemption until 31 December 2020. Restaurants and bars are permitted to open from 6am to 10.30pm, if they are able to serve customers whilst observing social distancing requirements. You must use the supplied hand sanitiser upon entry. 
• South Africa * GOV.UK * Anyone travelling to South Africa will be required to produce a paper copy of a negative COVID-19 test not older than 72 hours from the time of departure. You should not use the NHS testing service to get a test in order to facilitate your travel to another country. You should arrange to take a private test.
• South Africa * GOV.UK * On 1 October South Africa reopened its borders, subject to certain restrictions. Whilst international commercial air travel has resumed, the UK has been classified as a high-risk country. Travel from the UK for tourism for leisure is prohibited. Business travellers from the UK must gain permission to enter South Africa before they travel. Permitted travellers must have a paper copy of a negative COVID-19 test performed no more than 72 hours prior to their departure. If you do not have this you will be sent to government-appointed quarantine facilities.
• St Vincent and the Grenadines * GOV.UK * As at 1 October, if you are travelling from the UK (a ‘high risk’ country), you: Must complete the pre-arrival questionnaire, Must arrive with a negative result of a COVID-19 (RT-PCR) test done no more than five days before arrival. (The result document should clearly state what the test is (e.g. PCR COVID-19 test) and the date on which the test was carried out), Will be retested for COVID-19 (RT-PCR) on arrival in SVG, Must mandatory quarantine for 5 days 48 to 72 hours in a Tourism Authority/MOHWE approved Transition/Quarantine Hotel at your own expense. You must arrive with proof of the fully paid reservation and must transfer to the Transition Hotel in an approved AIA taxi or approved vessel (plane or ferry) at your own expense. Must be retested between day 4 and day 5 of quarantine, May be required, at the discretion of the Port Health Officer, to prolong your period of quarantine by a further nine 9 to sixteen 16 monitored days in an approved home/hotel/vessel.
• Switzerland * GOV.UK * Travellers who have visited the UK in the past 10 days will be required to quarantine for 10 days on entry to Switzerland, regardless of nationality. Travellers entering Switzerland who have visited certain countries within the past 10 days are also required to quarantine for 10 days. The full list of countries which are currently subject to quarantine on entry to Switzerland is available on the website of the Federal Office of Public Health. Travellers who have transited countries which are subject to quarantine, for less than 24 hours are not required to quarantine on entry to Switzerland.
• Uganda * GOV.UK * Entebbe International Airport re-opened on 1 October 2020. Land borders have also re-opened. New COVID-19 standard operating procedures (SOPs) are in place for arriving and departing passengers. On arrival at Entebbe International Airport and at land border crossings, travellers will need to provide a negative COVID-19 test certificate issued no more than 72 hours before boarding the aircraft. Airlines have been directed not to allow passengers without a negative test certificate to travel. Foreign national passengers who arrive without a valid negative test certificate will be denied entry.
• Uganda * GOV.AU * Entebbe International Airport has reopened for commercial passenger flights. To enter Uganda you must present evidence of a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test. It must be taken in the country of departure and within 72 hours of arrival. A nationwide daily curfew from 9.00pm to 6.00am is in place. Public and private transport is now allowed in all districts, including those with an international border, but is limited to 4 people per car (including the driver). It’s compulsory to wear an approved face mask in public for everyone aged six and over. If you show symptoms of COVID-19, expect local authorities to quarantine you. Monitor the media for information on latest developments.
• Ukraine * GOV.UK * Mandatory self-isolation or quarantine is no longer necessary if a traveller undergoes a PCR test and receives a negative result no more than 48 hours in advance of his/her arrival in Ukraine, or once in Ukraine.
• Zimbabwe * GC.CA * Zimbabwean authorities have announced land border closures until further notice.
• Zimbabwe * GOV.UK * From 1 October, Zimbabwe is opening its international airports to tourists in addition to Zimbabwean nationals and valid residence permit holders. From 30 September 2020 visas that have been extended during the national lockdown, including diplomatic visas, temporary residence permits or employment permits, will expire. If you wish to extend or renew such visas or permits you must do so via the relevant Government of Zimbabwe department.

Please note the revision date (mmddyy) of this report, printed on the title of the post, and go to the direct sources linked for the most up-to-date information.  The information in this report may change without prior notice.