International Education > Archive > Category: COVID-19

021121 – COVID-19 Report

February 11, 2021

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. and other countries.

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 listed for the most up-to-date information.  The information in this report may change without prior notice.

Impact

Preventative Measures

  • Algeria * GC.CA * Preventative measures and restrictions are in place and may vary according to the region. You must wear a face covering in public. A curfew is in effect from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. in several wilayas including Algiers. If you violate the restrictions you could be fined or detained for endangering public health. Follow the instructions of local authorities, including those related to physical distancing.
  • Algeria * GOV.UK * A curfew is in effect from 10pm to 5am in 19 provinces including the capital Algiers. The other provinces covered by the curfew are: Batna, Biskra, Blida, Bouira, Tebessa, Tlemcen, Tizi-Ouzou, Jijel, Sidi Bel Abbes, Constantine, Mostaganem, M’Sila, Oran, Boumerdes, El Tarf, Tissemsilt, Ain Temouchent and Relizane.
  • Bahrain * GOV.UK * Schools and universities are open, however in-school learning has been suspended from 31 January to 20 February 2021. Gatherings of over 5 people have been banned, shops are open with strict social distancing measures in place. Restaurants are open with social distancing guidelines and a maximum of 6 people per table. Indoor dining has been suspended from 31 January to 20 February 2021.Special events should have a maximum of 30 people.
  • Barbados * GC.CA * Preventative measures and restrictions are in place, including a daily nationwide curfew from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. until further notice. You must wear a face covering in public and private common areas.
  • Cuba * GOV.UK * From Friday 5 February 2021, a curfew is in place in Havana between 9pm to 5am which applies to any movement of vehicles and persons. The only permitted exceptions are for the transport of essential workers and supplies, and certain other categories with official permission.
  • Cyprus * GOV.UK * The use of a face mask is compulsory in all indoor and outdoor public spaces in the Republic of Cyprus and there is a country-wide curfew from 9pm to 5am (some exceptions apply). Failure to comply with restrictions may result in a €300 fine. Shopping malls are closed until 8 February. Visits to other households are permitted for a maximum of two people. From 8 February this will be increased to a maximum of four people.
  • Cyprus * GOV.UK * A lockdown is in force in the north of Cyprus and you must complete an online form to leave home. Face masks must be worn in public at all times. Travelling between districts is banned and only essential services stores are operating.
  • Cyprus * GOV.AU * A curfew remains in place between 9pm and 5am and other restrictions on movement and gatherings apply (see ‘Travel’).
  • France * GOV.AU * All large non-grocery stores are closed.
  • Ghana * GOV.UK * The Government of Ghana has eased some COVID-19 social restrictions but these can change at short notice. You should be aware that: The Government of Ghana recommends takeaway service is used where possible and that people do not sit down to eat in restaurants. Pubs, cinemas and nightclubs are closed. Beaches are closed but some tourist sites remain open. Weddings, concerts, parties theatrical performances and funerals are banned (private burials with no more than 25 attendees are allowed). It is now a legal requirement to wear face masks, including when leaving or returning to your place of residence, and when travelling in vehicles with more than one occupant. Notices of ‘no mask, no entry’ are displayed at vantage points including offices, shops, markets, malls, banks and pharmacies. The Ghana Police Service have been issued with an extensive list of places they can effect arrest, that includes outdoor spaces such as car parks, markets and the street. Under local COVID-19 protocols people are strongly advised to wash their hands, use hand sanitiser and avoid shaking-hands with one another. People are being advised to continue to adhere to strict social distancing.
  • Greece * GC.CA * Preventative measures and restrictions are in place and a nationwide curfew is in effect from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. It is forbidden to travel between regional units. You must request a movement permission to exit your residence between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. The curfew is in effect from 6 p.m. to 5 a.m. in the following regions, regional units and municipalities: Achaea: Patras, Attica (including Athens) – Saturdays and Sundays only, Evia: Halkida, Halkidiki – Saturdays and Sundays only, Laconia: Sparti, Lasithi: Agios Nikolaos, Lesvos, Mykonos, Rethymno, Thessaloniki – Saturdays and Sundays only, Thira: Santorini, Viotia: Thebes and Tanagra, Zakynthos. You must wear a face covering in all public spaces. If you violate the restrictions, you could be fined for endangering public health.
  • Greece * GOV.UK * Additional areas declared as red zones. Additional restrictions introduced for Athens, Attica, Thessaloniki, Chalkidiki, Agios Nikolaos, municipality of Lassithi, Crete; Chalkida, Evia; Patras, Achaia; Thira municipality, Thira (Santorini), and Mykonos. In these locations the following measures apply; curfew from 6pm (three hours earlier than the rest of the country) until 5am the following morning; EXCEPT ATTICA (including Athens) which has a 9pm – 5am curfew Monday-Friday and 6pm – 5am curfew on Saturday and Sunday; employees who need to go to work will need special permits issued by their employers; nursery schools, special education schools, primary schools and middle schools are open, high schools and universities will continue with online lessons; the majority of the retail sector will be closed, except for click-and-collect services. Clothing, footwear and bookshops are open by appointment (click in); hair salons, beauticians, and dieticians are open for appointments only; no movement outside municipality borders for all but health reasons; residents are forbidden to leave the area of residence for all but health reasons.
  • Japan * GOV.AU * Japan has extended its state of emergency until 7 March. The state of emergency will remain in place in 10 of its 47 prefectures (Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, Chiba, Osaka, Kyoto, Hyogo, Aichi, Gifu and Fukuoka). Restaurants and bars must close at 8pm, and you must limit unnecessary outings. Measures vary between regions. Monitor media and be alert to the advice of local authorities (see ‘Travel’).
  • Kosovo * GC.CA * Preventative measures and restrictions are in place and may vary depending on the risk level assigned to each area (green, orange or red). In red areas, a daily curfew is in effect from 9:30 p.m. to 5 a.m. Entry and exit from these areas is forbidden during the weekend. If you are 65 or older or if you have a chronic illness, you can only leave your accommodation on a daily basis from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. You must wear a face covering in public. If you violate the restrictions, you could be fined for endangering public health.
  • Kuwait * GOV.AU * Restrictions on public gatherings and commercial activity are also in place.
  • Latvia * GOV.UK * There has been a sharp rise in the number of COVID-19 cases in Latvia in recent weeks. The Latvian Government announced on 5 February 2021 that the State of Emergency will be extended to 6 April 2021. This includes restrictions on the opening of catering, retail, entertainment and leisure establishments and limits on the number of people allowed to gather at private and public events both indoors and outdoors. Curfews from 10pm to 5am are force on Friday to Saturday and Saturday to Sunday nights.
  • Lithuania * GC.CA * Preventative measures and restrictions are in place and may vary depending on the city. You must stay inside your home or accommodations unless you need to perform essential activities. You must remain within your municipality of residence. You must wear a face covering in all public places. If you violate the restrictions, you could be heavily fined for endangering public health.
  • Lithuania * GOV.AU * COVID-19 remains a risk in Lithuania. There is a national lockdown and you must follow local restrictions. For a full list of COVID-19 regulations, see ‘Travel’.
  • Malaysia * GOV.AU * Malaysia has introduced new restrictions in response to increasing COVID-19 cases that will remain in effect until 18 February 2021. The restrictions vary across locations and can change rapidly (see ‘Travel’). Remain aware of what restrictions are in place at your location and follow the advice of local authorities. You must maintain social distance and wear a face mask in public spaces and on public transportation. Foreigners, including visitors and long term foreign residents, have been arrested and charged for breaching COVID-19 restrictions, including failure to socially distance in public places and being present in a venue that is suspected of breaching current rules.
  • Maldives * GOV.UK * A Public Health Emergency is in place until 5 March 2021. There is a curfew in the Greater Male’ area (which includes Male’, Vilimale’ and Hulhumale’) from 8:30pm to 4:30am local time. Between 8:30pm and 11pm (local time) vehicles are banned. There are no movement restrictions within the Greater Male’ area outside of these hours. Travel between the Greater Male’ region and other islands is no longer restricted to essential services only. When travelling from Greater Male’ (but not including the airport) to other islands, there is a mandatory 10 day home quarantine upon arrival at your destination. Use of masks is mandatory while travelling by air and sea.
  • Maldives * GOV.UK * A Public Health Emergency is in place until 5 March 2021. There is a curfew in the Greater Male’ area (which includes Male’, Vilimale’ and Hulhumale’) from 8:30pm to 4:30am local time. Between 8:30pm and 11pm (local time) vehicles are banned. There are no movement restrictions within the Greater Male’ area outside of these hours. Travel between the Greater Male’ region and other islands is no longer restricted to essential services only. When travelling from Greater Male’ (but not including the airport) to other islands, there is a mandatory 10 day home quarantine upon arrival at your destination. Use of masks is mandatory while travelling by air and sea. Use of masks is mandatory on all inhabited islands when going out in public.
  • Mongolia * GOV.UK * Ulaanbaatar will be placed under a strict lockdown from 06:00 on 11 February until 06:00 on 23 February during the Lunar New Year period. There will be a curfew in place between 21:00 and 07:00 daily. Public transport will run from 07:00 to 10:00 and 17:00 to 20:00 only. Movement in and out of the city will be prohibited with exceptions only for emergency vehicles and funerals. Essential services such as grocery stores, pharmacies and hospitals will remain open throughout. The public has been advised to only visit their closest grocery store during the lockdown.
  • Mozambique * GC.CA * Preventative measures and restrictions are in place, including a curfew in effect from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. in the following cities: Maputo, Matola, Boane, Marracuene. You must wear a face covering in public.
  • Myanmar (Burma) * GOV.UK *  There is a nationwide curfew imposed between midnight and 4am. The military have directed airports to close and suspended all domestic and international commercial passenger flights until 31 May 2021 at the earliest
  • Namibia * GOV.UK * Public health measures are in place which must be adhered to at all times. The measures are in force until midnight on 24 February, and state that you must: Adhere to the nationwide curfew which prevents any movement between the hours of 10pm and 5am. Wear a face mask correctly at all times in public spaces including on public transport. Maintain social distancing. Avoid crowded public places. Limit public gatherings to 50 persons. Registers of attendees must be maintained, temperature checks recorded, and hand sanitising facilities put in place. Face masks and social distancing of at least 2 metres are mandatory. In addition: The sale of alcohol in bars, nightclubs, casinos, gambling houses, shebeens and restaurants is restricted to the hours of 9 am to 8pm Monday to Saturday. No alcohol sales on Sundays and public holidays. All business premises must ensure that customers wear facemasks correctly and hand sanitise on entry. Public health measures must be adhered to when using public transport, for the duration of the journey, and the destination must be reached by 9pm. Spectators are not allowed at sporting events. Enforcement of public health measures will be undertaken by police and law enforcement personnel. You should comply with any instructions given.
  • Panama * GC.CA * Preventative measures and restrictions are in place, including a nationwide curfew from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. The government of Panama has declared a general containment on week-ends in the following provinces: Panama, Panama Oeste, Cocle Veragua, Los Santos, Herrera. During this period, you must stay inside your home or accommodations unless you need to perform essential activities. Inter-provincial mobility is also restricted and additional local restrictions are in place.
  • Poland * GOV.AU *  Nationwide COVID-19 restrictions remain in place. You must follow local laws which includes wearing a face mask in public (see ‘Travel’).
  • Saudi Arabia * GOV.UK * The Ministry of Interior announced that from 2200 KSA time on 4 February 2021, dine-in services in cafes and restaurants are temporarily suspended. Cinemas, indoor entertainment centres, gyms and sports centres are temporarily closed. Events and parties in banquet halls, wedding halls, hotels, rest houses and camps are also suspended.
  • Seychelles * GOV.UK * The Government of Seychelles has extended COVID-19 restrictions across the country until 15 February. There has been an increase of COVID-19 cases in Seychelles and community transmission has now been detected. The Government of Seychelles has issued new measures as a result. The measures took effect on 3 January and will remain in place until 15 February, when they will be reviewed.
  • Slovakia * GOV.UK * A nationwide curfew with strict lockdown measures to combat COVID-19 is in place. This limits movement outside the home except for specified purposes or exemptions. Different restrictions may apply within those districts with higher infection prevalence, and negative test certificates may be required for certain activities.
  • South Africa * GC.CA * Preventative measures and restrictions are in place, including a nationwide curfew from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. You must wear a face covering in public.
  • Vietnam * GC.CA * Preventative measures and restrictions are in place and may vary depending on the province or municipality. All traffic entering or leaving the provinces of Hai Duong and Quang Ninh, including intercity buses passenger transportation and private vehicles, is restricted. You must stay inside your home or place of residence unless you need to perform essential activities. If you need to leave your home, you must wear a face covering in public. Additional measures can be imposed on short notice. If you violate the restrictions, you could be fined and face criminal charges.
  • Vietnam * GOV.AU * Vietnam has implemented nationwide social distancing measures in response to COVID-19. These measures may vary between provinces and change at short notice. If you’re in Vietnam, follow the advice of local authorities and monitor Australian Embassy social media for major updates.

Travel Restrictions

  • Angola * GOV.UK * From midnight on 24 January, Angola closed its borders to arrivals from South Africa, Portugal and Brazil.
  • Austria * GOV.AU * Austria has lockdown measures in place (see ‘Travel’). Borders remain open, but you must register online before entering Austria. Local regulations and entry restrictions can change at short notice. Keep in contact with your travel provider for the latest information. Follow the advice of local authorities.
  • Bahamas * GOV.UK * There is currently no direct commercial air travel to and from The Bahamas to the UK. British Airways plan to resume flights in March 2021. This is subject to change. You should refer to the BA website and call centre +1 877 767 7970 for more information. Departure via transit destinations such as the US may be possible for eligible travellers. This is subject to change at short notice. You should refer to the travel advice and restrictions before travelling.
  • Barbados * GOV.UK * On arrival, you will undergo a rapid antigen test. If positive, you will be transferred to the government isolation facility. If negative, you will be required to quarantine at government approved facilities (a designated holding hotel, approved villa or a government facility at your own expense), and undertake a further test 5 days after your arrival. You will need to stay in your hotel room and may be required to wear an electronic tracking bracelet until you receive the results of your second test. If this second test is negative you will no longer be subject to quarantine. The government aims to return results within 48 hours but there have been some delays. Check the Barbados Travel Protocols carefully for full details of these requirements
  • Barbados * GOV.UK * You must complete and submit an online immigration/customs form 24 hours prior to travel. Barbados designates the UK as a high-risk country. Travellers from the UK must arrive with a negative PCR test taken by a certified or accredited laboratory within 3 days of arrival. On arrival, you will undergo a rapid antigen test. If positive, you will be transferred to the government isolation facility. If negative, you will be required to quarantine at government approved facilities (a designated holding hotel, approved villa or a government facility at your own expense), and undertake a further test 5 days after your arrival. You will need to stay in your hotel room and may be required to wear an electronic tracking bracelet until you receive the results of your second test. If this second test is negative you will no longer be subject to quarantine. The government aims to return results within 48 hours but there have been some delays. Check the Barbados Travel Protocols carefully for full details of these requirements.
  • Brazil * GOV.UK * As of 25 December 2020, Brazil has temporarily suspended all direct flights from or via the UK, and has temporarily suspended permission for foreigners who have been in the UK during the previous 14 days to board flights to Brazil. There are exemptions, including for resident foreigners, close family members of Brazilian nationals (partners/spouses, children, and parents/guardians), accredited government officials, and professionals working for international organisations. This exemption is subject to a requirement to quarantine on arrival in Brazil for 14 days. Some British nationals have been denied boarding by airlines. You should check with the airline before buying a ticket to confirm you will be allowed to board.
  • Bulgaria * GOV.UK * From 2 February 2021, the 10 day quarantine on arrival, in lieu of a PCR test for people legally resident in Bulgaria, can be shortened if they present a negative PCR test performed within 24 hours of arriving in Bulgaria. The quarantine requirement will be revoked within 24 hours of submitting the document demonstrating the negative PCR test result. For further details on this process, see the Entry requirements page.
  • Cape Verde * GOV.UK * Cape Verde’s air and sea borders are open. You’ll need a COVID-19 RT PCR nasal swab test or an antigen test (Ag-RDT) to enter Cape Verde. The test has to be done in the last 72 hours before travel. If you do not present a COVID-19 test done in the last 72 hours, you will not be allowed to board your flight. Children under 7 do not need to present a COVID-19 test. Prior to your travel you will need to complete: the Airport Security Tax Form (TSA) on the EASE website and pay 3,400 escudos (approximately £30). This does not apply to visitors under 2 years of age or those who are normally resident in Cape Verde. (See Visas). If you’re travelling with a tour operator, check whether the cost of the TSA is included in your package; an International Travel Form on the Covid19.cv website. You need to complete it online and submit it prior to your travel.
  • Croatia * GOV.UK * From 13 January 2021, there are additional restrictions if you are travelling to Croatia from the UK, South Africa or Brazil. In addition to holding a negative PCR test result less than 48 hours old, permitted travellers must also undergo a mandatory 14 day self-isolation period on arrival to Croatia. The isolation period can be reduced to 7 days if a subsequent PCR test confirms a negative result.
  • Cuba * GOV.UK * From 6 February 2021, everyone arriving in Cuba will be taken to an isolation centre (may be a hotel) until they have a second PCR test with a negative result. Non-residents have to cover the costs of transport, the stay and test(s), which will have to be paid by credit card. You should bring cash in case your credit card does not work.
  • Cyprus * GOV.UK * The UK is in Cyprus’ Category C List, which means that temporary visitors from the UK are not permitted to travel to Cyprus. Travel from the UK is permitted only for Cypriot citizens and their family members (including their parents, foreign spouses, and children under 18), and legal residents of the Republic of Cyprus. Permitted travellers (as defined above) can choose whether to provide a negative COVID-19 result from a PCR test taken within 72 hours before travel or undergo a test on arrival in Cyprus. This will be followed by a compulsory 14-day self-isolation in government-assigned accommodation. You can choose to undergo a molecular test on the 10th day, at your own expense, and have your self-isolation terminated provided the result is negative, or be released on the 14th day. These measures are in place until at least 1 March.
  • Cyprus * GOV.AU * All travellers must take a COVID-19 (PCR) test on arrival. From 6 February 2021, all travellers from a designated Category A or B location must self-isolate for 72 hours and take a further COVID-19 (PCR) test 72 hours after arrival.
  • Czech Republic * GOV.UK * If you have spent more than 12 hours in the UK during the previous 14 days, you must present a negative RT-PCR test that has been taken in the UK no longer than 72 hours before departure. On arrival in the Czech Republic, you must self-isolate for at least 5 days, before undertaking a further RT-PCR test between 5-7 days after arrival. A negative test result ends this period of self-isolation. If you test negative, you will need to wear a FFP2 standard facemask or higher when you are outdoors (available in Czech pharmacies and known in Czech as “respirator”) after ending self-isolation up until 10 days after arrival. You are also required to fill in the Passenger Locator Form and present it upon arrival. You should consult your airline operator before travelling.
  • Denmark * GOV.AU * All non-residents entering Denmark must show a worthy cause for travel and proof of a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen test) taken no more than 24 hours before boarding the aircraft. Danish nationals and residents must also present a negative COVID-19 test. Additional entry restrictions apply to residents from the UK and South Africa. Direct flights from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Denmark are temporarily banned until further notice. Also, COVID-19 tests taken in the UAE won’t be accepted. If you’re travelling to Denmark from the UAE on a continuous journey (transferring at one or more airports), you’ll have to take a test in another country before boarding the final flight to Denmark.
  • Dominican Republic * GOV.UK * The Dominican Republic has resumed inbound passenger flights from the UK. Passengers from the UK are allowed to arrive in the DR, but it is mandatory to present a negative PCR test certification taken within the previous 72 hours before travel. Travellers from the UK who arrive without a PCR certificate will be subject to a COVID-19 test upon arrival and required to isolate in a government quarantine facility for seven days at their own cost. If you were planning to travel to or transit through the Dominican Republic, please check with your travel provider. Further updates will be published when they are available.
  • Finland * GOV.UK * The Finnish authorities introduced a number of measures to limit the spread of the virus. These measures include more stringent controls on people arriving from abroad. See the Finnish Border Guard website for more details.
  • Finland * GOV.AU * Tighter border restrictions are in place until at least 25 February 2021. Entry to Finland by non-residents is prohibited, except for essential and compassionate reasons. If eligible to enter, you’ll need to provide a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test result taken within 72 hours of arrival. Unless you’re travelling from Australia or another eligible low-risk country, you will be required to self-isolate for 14 days on arrival. This period can be reduced if you take a second COVID-19 (PCR) test at least 72 hours after arrival. Check with local authorities and your airline for the latest information.
  • France * GOV.AU * International travel to and from France from outside of the EU is only allowed in certain circumstances. A COVID-19 (PCR) test is required if you arrive in France from another EU country, except for trans-border workers. Travel to or from France’s overseas territories is not allowed, unless there are exceptional circumstances.  These measures can change at short notice. If you are considering going to or leaving France you should contact your closest embassy or consulate of France for further details, and monitor the French Government’s COVID-19 pages.
  • French Polynesia * GOV.AU * Travel to French Polynesia is only allowed in certain circumstances and if you have the relevant documents from local authorities prior to travel. Passengers aged five and over will need to provide a negative COVID-19 (RT-PCR) test, undertaken within 72 hours prior to departure. Airlines and airport authorities may also carry out other tests. Check with your airline for the latest information. Measures may change at short notice.
  • Gabon * GC.CA * Gabonese authorities have announced the closure of land borders until further notice.
  • Georgia * GOV.UK * Foreign citizens from a limited number of countries, including the UK, are now allowed to enter Georgia by air under the following conditions: (1) Unrestricted entry for citizens of any country, including the UK, who have documentary proof of having received a full course of COVID vaccination. (2) Other UK citizens can enter Georgia dependent on submitting a travel history in advance and holding a negative PCR test taken within the previous 72 hours. You must take a further PCR test at your own expense on your third day in Georgia. (3) Of particular relevance to UK citizens – following discovery of a new strain of coronavirus in the UK, the Georgian Government announced that anyone entering Georgia who has been in the UK within the previous 14 days must undergo mandatory 12-day quarantine. This requirement applies to all nationalities and all entry or visa routes. Full details are on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
  • Germany * GOV.UK * The German government has restricted entry from designated virus variant areas and risk areas, including all non-Schengen countries not on the country’s travel corridor list. The UK is currently designated a virus variant area, so travellers from the UK are only permitted to enter Germany if they are returning to their place of residence or if they can demonstrate an urgent humanitarian need such as an immediate family bereavement. More information about possible exceptions non-residents may seek to invoke is on the Federal Interior Ministry website. In addition, the German government has imposed a general ban on commercial travel from the UK or other designated virus variant areas for all non-residents between 30 January and 17 February 2021.
  • Ghana * GOV.UK * From 6 pm on February 8 there will be a charge of $150 per passenger for COVID-19 testing at Kotoka International airport for children between the ages of 5 and 12.
  • Grenada * GOV.UK * The UK-Grenada flight suspension was lifted on 1 February.
  • Haiti * GOV.UK * From 9 February, individuals travelling to Haiti will be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test prior to boarding flights. This may be may be either an Antigen or PCR test, and must have been taken no more than 72 hours prior to boarding.
  • Ireland * GOV.UK * From 4 February the Irish Government has introduced a legal requirement for all travellers to quarantine for 14 days, with limited exceptions.
  • Italy * GOV.UK * Until 5 March, entry into Italy is only permitted for those with official residency or those with absolute necessity, which must be declared in writing (by the passenger using the self-declaration). Until 5 March, those wishing to fly must present the airline with a negative COVID-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test taken no more than 72 hours before entry into Italy. You must also take a COVID-19 rapid antigenic or molecular swab test within 48 hours of entering Italy – arrivals by air from the UK will take this test at the airport. Whatever the result of the 2 swab tests, those arriving in Italy from the UK must also report to their local health authorities on arrival and self-isolate for 14 days.
  • Japan * GOV.UK * State of Emergency has been extended to last until 7 March and foreign nationals who wish to enter Japan for work or study and who have visited the UK or the list of countries in the past 14 days are currently not permitted to enter until further notice.
  • Kuwait * GOV.UK * Kuwait has announced that it will only allow Kuwaitis and first-degree relatives of Kuwaitis into the country between 7 and 21 February.
  • Kuwait * GOV.AU * Entry by foreign nationals is suspended between 7 and 21 February 2021.  From 21 February 2021, all travellers must undertake seven days of hotel quarantine followed by a further seven days of home quarantine.
  • Latvia * GOV.UK * From 11 to 25 February 2021, entry into Latvia is permitted for essential travel only, defined as for work, studies, transit, medical treatment, funerals, family reunions, returning to one’s residence, and accompanying a minor. From 11 to 25 February 2021, direct passenger transport will be suspended between Latvia and the UK (and Ireland and Portugal).
  • Latvia * GOV.AU * A state of emergency remains in place with tight restrictions to manage the spread of COVID-19. All travellers must present a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test issued within 72 hours of arrival in Latvia. Some exemptions exist. If you have recovered from COVID-19 in the last three months, you’ll also need to present a medical certificate confirming you’re not currently infectious. You can enter Latvia but you’ll be required to self-isolate for 10 days unless you’re coming from a low-risk country. If you intend to travel or transit through Latvia, you must lodge an electronic form within 48 hours before entering (see ‘Travel’).
  • Lesotho * GOV.UK * Lesotho reverted to “Orange Level” restrictions on 3 February. Movement across the Lesotho border remains prohibited except for: essential goods and services, migrant workers, medical emergencies (with permits), funerals for parents, children, siblings and grandparents, students, diplomats.
  • Lithuania * GOV.AU * Before entering Lithuania, you must register with the National Health Centre. Depending on the country you’re coming from, you may be required to self-isolate for 14 days and present a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test result which is less than 48 hours old or register for a test within 24 hours after arrival (see ‘Travel’).
  • Malaysia * GOV.AU * Expired social visit pass (tourist visa) holders will be permitted to leave Malaysia without incurring any penalties or enforcement action up to 14 working days from the expiry of the current RMCO period. Contact your airline or travel provider to organise options to depart Malaysia as soon as you can. There is no guarantee of any further extensions without penalty.
  • Myanmar (Burma) * GOV.UK * There are limited options for British nationals looking to return to the UK. We understand that a number of flights are resuming to Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, and Singapore, although these may be subject to change and travellers should contact the relevant airline’s website or office. All travellers should check with the embassies of respective transit countries to check transit, entry and Covid-19 testing requirements before making ticket purchases.
  • Netherlands * GOV.UK * As of 23 January 2021 a temporary travel ban is in effect for all passenger flights and passenger ferries from the United Kingdom. This means that no passengers will be allowed to travel to the Netherlands by aeroplane or ferry, apart from in exceptional circumstances such as travel for medical reasons, healthcare workers, seafarers and aviation workers. Visit the Dutch Government’s website for more information. The ban is due to remain in place until 22 February 2021.
  • Norway * GOV.AU * Norway’s borders are closed to foreign travellers who don’t have Norwegian residency or citizenship, though some exemptions apply. All travellers to Norway (including citizens) must register no more than 72 hours prior their arrival. Travellers arriving from high-risk countries must also have a COVID-19 test upon arrival in Norway. Additional restrictions apply to travellers arriving from the UK, South Africa, Ireland, the Netherlands, Austria, Portugal and Brazil. If you’re travelling from a high-risk country, you must also present proof of a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test taken within 24 hours before you arrive. Norwegian residents are exempt from this requirement (see ‘Travel’).
  • Pakistan * GOV.UK * On 21 December, the Pakistan government announced that, due to the COVID-19 situation, inbound travellers from the UK, or those who have been in the UK in the last 10 days, will not be able to enter Pakistan. The Pakistan government has announced that the restriction will be extended until 28 February 2021.
  • Papua New Guinea * GOV.UK * Nobody may enter Papua New Guinea unless they have a written exemption from the National Pandemic Controller and have tested negative for COVID-19 within a 7 day period prior to boarding the aircraft bound for PNG. Travellers to Papua New Guinea must also complete an online electronic health declaration form within 24 hours of departure.
  • Philippines * GC.CA * Philippines has implemented special entry requirements for its territory. Travellers arriving from Canada may be allowed entry to the Philippines, if they meet specific criteria. It is your responsibility to verify this information with the appropriate foreign diplomatic office and to ask if you may be allowed entry, based on your individual circumstances and your itinerary. The information provided is based on travel from Canada. Keep in mind that your transit points could affect your ability to enter the country. If you are allowed entry to the Philippines, you must meet the additional requirements below. Visa: Canadians temporarily require a visa to visit the Philippines. Quarantine: You will be subject to a mandatory quarantine in a government designated hotel for a minimum of 6 nights at your own expense. After 6 days, you must take a PCR test at your own expense. If your PCR test comes back negative, you may be allowed to self-isolate at home until the completion of your 14-day quarantine. Local authorities may impose additional requirements without notice and your travel plans could be severely disrupted. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.
  • Philippines * GOV.UK * Foreign nationals wishing to enter the Philippines must hold a visa under the following categories, otherwise they risk being turned away. Diplomats and members of international organisation and their dependents, provided they hold a valid 9(e) visa at the time of entry; Foreign Airline Crew; Foreign seafarers provided they hold a valid 9(c) visa at the time of entry; holders of 13 series visa under Immigration Act as amended; Temporary Resident Visa (based on CA 613, Section 13 a [marriage to Filipino]); Native Born Visa (based on CA 613, Section 13 a [foreigners born to foreign parent/s with permanent resident status in the Philippines]); holders of Republic Act 7919 visas (granted through Social Integration Programme); holders of Executive Order 324; Foreign spouses, children and parents provided that they have a valid (new and existing) visa at the time of entry and the principal Philippine national is in the country; Foreign spouses of Filipino nationals; Foreign minor children and foreign children with special needs (regardless of age) of Filipino nationals; Foreign parents of minor Filipino children and of Filipino children with special needs (regardless of age); Foreign nationals or dual Filipino citizens carrying foreign passports, provided they possess and present a Recognition Certificate or a Certificate of Citizenship Retention and Reacquisition under RA9225; holders of a Special Investor’s Resident Visa (SIRV) issued under EO 226 (Omnibus Investment Code, as amended) but not under EO 63; holders of RA 8756 visa intended for executive positions for multinational companies; holders of 47 (a) (2) visa issued by DOJ; holders of visas issued by the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority, Subic Bay Metropolitan, Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan Cagayan Economic Zone Authority, and Clark Development Corporation; Foreign nationals under the Balikbayan Privilege (RA 6768) program and from non-visa required countries under EO 408; Filipino citizen’s foreign spouses and children, regardless of age, who are travelling with them; Former Filipino citizens, including their foreign spouses and children, who are travelling with them holders; holders of 9(g) visas who departed the Philippines on or after 17 December 2020 and who hold a valid visa for the intended re-entry.
  • Poland * GOV.AU * Foreigners are currently not permitted to enter Poland unless an exemption applies. If permitted to enter, you may be required to quarantine for 10 days.
  • Russia * GOV.AU * Flights between Russia and the UK are suspended until at least 16 February 2021. If you’re arriving in Russia, including transiting, you’re required to provide a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test result dated within 72 hours of your travel. If you’re travelling for work purposes, you may be required to self-isolate for 14 days on arrival. Follow the advice of local authorities.
  • Saudi Arabia * GOV.UK * In response to the spread of a new strain of COVID-19, the Ministry of Interior announced the suspension of entry into Saudi Arabia from 20 countries, including the UK, effective from 6pm GMT Wednesday 3 February. The suspension is also applicable to travellers who have visited or transited any of the listed countries 14 days prior to entering Saudi Arabia. Health workers, diplomats and Saudi nationals, and their families are exempt from the suspension. Travellers from countries where cases of the new strain have been registered are required to quarantine at home for 7 days, and undergo a PCR test on the 6th day before ending quarantine. Travellers from all other countries are required to quarantine at home for 7 days, or 3 days followed by a negative PCR test.
  • Serbia * GOV.UK * Serbian nationals and foreign nationals with temporary and permanent residence must either present a negative PCR test taken in the 48 hours before arrival or spend 10 days in self-isolation at home following entry to Serbia. Individuals undergoing self-isolation must report to a healthcare centre within 24 hours of entering Serbia by registering at http://www.e-zdravlje.gov.rs. Visitors travelling from the USA may enter Serbia under the same conditions with either a negative PCR or antigen FIA Rapid Test. Persons who have travelled outside Serbia and are returning within 48 hours may present a negative PCR test issued from Serbia, provided it was issued within 48 hours prior to re-entry into Serbia. Exemptions to these requirements include: Visitors travelling from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Hungary, North Macedonia and Montenegro. Foreign nationals transiting Serbia (up to 12 hours); Crew of international cargo (road and river) transport (time limits apply); Crews and cabin crews of aircraft arriving in and transiting Serbia; Children aged 12 years and under, provided the parent/adult accompanying has complied with the entry requirements outlined above; Members of foreign diplomatic missions, international organisations and military undertaking official travel.
  • Serbia * GOV.AU * You must provide a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test taken within 48 hours to enter Serbia unless you are entering from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Montenegro, North Macedonia or Hungary. Dual nationals travelling on a Serbian passport and those with temporary or permanent residency may self-isolate for 10 days on arrival if you don’t have a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test result. Wear a face mask indoors as well as outdoors where interpersonal contact can’t be avoided or you may be fined. Monitor media and follow the Australian Embassy Facebook page for updates.
  • Somalia * GOV.AU * Somalia has introduced new COVID-19 screening processes. A negative COVID-19 test, taken no more than 96 hours before you travel, is required to enter. If you’re departing Somalia, a negative COVID-19 test, taken no more than 72 hours before travel, is required to depart.
  • Spain * GOV.AU * Air and sea travel from the UK to Spain is restricted to Spanish and Andorran citizens and those legally resident in Spain or Andorra. If you’re travelling from a designated ‘at risk’ country, you’ll need to present a negative COVID-19 (PCR or TMA) test result on arrival, taken within 72 hours before you travel. From 31 January, crossings at land borders with Portugal are suspended, except for workers, freight and people returning to their normal place of residence.
  • Sweden * GOV.UK * From 6 February until 31 March all foreign nationals, including from the UK, must provide a negative COVID-19 test before entering Sweden. The Swedish Border Police accept tests from an authorised provider including those on this list. This test must be taken within 48 hours of arrival in Sweden. British citizens who live in Sweden and those travelling for urgent family reasons are exempt from this requirement. A full list of exemptions is available on the website of the Swedish Government. Further information is available on the website of the Swedish Police Authority. Holders of Swedish passports do not have to do this.
  • Sweden * GOV.AU * Until at least 31 March travellers to Sweden will be required to show a negative COVID-19 test taken within the last 48 hours. There are exemptions to this requirement, including for Swedish citizens and residents and those under the age of 18. Bans on entry from the UK, Denmark and Norway remain in place, with limited exceptions. Follow the advice of the regional and local health authorities.
  • Switzerland * GOV.UK * From 8 February, travellers from ‘high risk countries’, including the UK, will need to present a negative COVID-19 test result (PCR), carried out less than 72 hours before arrival. Anyone arriving in Switzerland by air, even from a country that is not considered high risk will need to present a negative COVID-19 test result ( PCR) before arrival. Further information, including a list of ‘high risk countries’ are available on the Federal Office of Public Health website. Travellers from ‘high risk countries’ (see the Federal Office of Public Health website), including the UK, arriving by air must complete an online form on arrival and provide contact details. From 8 February, all travellers to Switzerland from ‘high risk countries’, including the UK, irrespective of mode of transport must complete an online form on arrival and provide contact details. Travellers from other countries arriving by air, boat, bus or trainmust complete an online form on arrival and provide contact details.
  • Switzerland * GOV.AU * From 8 February, if arriving by air you must present a negative PCR test result to airline staff prior to boarding. Fines apply if you can’t present your negative test result after arrival. If you’re coming from a high-risk country or region you must also quarantine on arrival, there’s an option to reduce the duration of quarantine (see ‘Travel’). International arrivals by air, boat, bus or train must complete an online contact tracing form. Fines can be imposed to persons for not following COVID-19 measures. Follow the advice of local authorities.
  • Timor-Leste * GOV.UK * The Government of Timor-Leste has extended the temporary closure of its airports, ports and land borders to 15 February. The decision has been made under the State of Emergency, due to a recent increase in imported COVID-19 cases.
  • Tunisia * GOV.UK * On 1 February, all direct flights between the UK and Tunisia (and other countries where the new COVID-19 strain has been detected) were suspended until further notice.
  • Ukraine * GOV.AU * Ukraine’s borders are open to foreigners. COVID-19 infections are increasing daily. To enter Ukraine, you must have valid health insurance and it should cover COVID-19 treatment. Monitor the Visit Ukraine website for entry requirements specific to the country you are travelling from.
  • United Arab Emirates * GOV.AU * Visas on arrival are now available in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. If you’re travelling to Abu Dhabi, you’ll need a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test result within 96 hours of travel and within 72 hours of travel if you’re travelling to Dubai. Anyone travelling to Abu Dhabi from countries on the ‘green’ list will be exempt from quarantine but still have to follow entry requirements for COVID-19 testing. All points of entry between the United Arab Emirates and Qatar have reopened. Check the latest information for travelling to, from or connecting through Abu Dhabi and Dubai (see ‘Travel’). These requirements may change at short notice. Contact your airline directly for the latest update on entry or exit requirements. Delays and disruptions are likely.

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