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Many countries have established restrictions on entry and/or visa and permit issuance to limit the spread of COVID-19. Many have also put in place quarantine and medical testing requirements. Some countries have now begun to lift some of these restrictions and requirements. Some countries have also introduced concessions to support impacted visitors, residents and other visa holders. The measures introduced by some common destinations are as follows:

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

The national government has ordered a closure of the country’s air, sea and land borders until at least August 30, 2020. Entry is allowed for citizens and residents of Argentina; those involved in international trade operations and the transport of goods; and crew members of aircrafts and ships. A repatriation program is in place for Argentine citizens who are abroad.

National authorities have started to approve Special Entry Permits for non- resident foreigners during Mandatory Social and Preventive Isolation (ASOP). The entry permits are limited for Workers with essential activities and Temporary workers detailed in decree NUD 297/2020 issued by the National Executive Power (NEP). An exceptional authorization issued by the National Authorities is required to enter the country.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

All travelers arriving in the country are subject to a 14-day mandatory home quarantine.

The federal government has implemented a quarantine/social distancing period for the country until at least August 2, 2020. The quarantine is being most strictly enforced in Buenos Aires and its suburban areas. Other areas of the country with a reduction in cases are now allowed to gradually ease restrictions.

Status of Government Services

All services provided by the National Immigration Department (DNM) and Renaper have been suspended indefinitely. Other federal agencies such as Anses and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have restricted their services to the public. Accordingly, all visa applications have been suspended until further notice, DNI status inquiries are not possible, and applications for a CUIL number at the Social Security Department are also suspended. Those with pending visa applications and a provisional stay permit that expired on or before April 18, 2020 may renew their permits online.

The processing of applications for admission as a temporary resident in certain categories (migrant workers, rentiers, pensioners, investors, scientists and specialized personnel, athletes, artists, recognized religious cults, academics and students) for foreign nationals from China, Iran, Japan, South Korea, the United States and European Union countries who are outside of Argentina is temporarily suspended.

The online processing of Electronic Travel Authorizations (AVE) is suspended.

The government has instructed consulates to suspend the processing of visas and entry permits for temporary residents or visitors of countries with circulation of COVID-19.

Concessions

National Migration will extend the validity of transitory residence, temporary residence and certificates of precarious residence for 30 calendar days. As well as the inscriptions in the National Register of Foreign Requirements.

Deadlines for compliance with all privacy and summons issued by the National Directorate of Migration are suspended. The application of this benefit may require a special request on a case by case basis.

The government of Buenos Aires is automatically extending all drivers licenses with expiration dates of 2/15/2020 to 4/15/2020 since all renewal appointments have been suspended.

The validity period of documents about to expire (e.g., visas, DNI) will be automatically extended for 30 days initially and potentially longer.

A digital National Identity Document (DNI) is now available. The Digital DNI will shorten the overall immigration processing time, as it can be obtained as soon as Residence status is approved–there is no need to wait for the issuance and delivery of a physical DNI card. The digital DNI can be used exactly as a DNI card to prove identity for banking and immigration processes as well as other processes at national and provincial public administration offices.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Effective November 29, 2021, the government of Australia has paused the next phase of reopening the country until December 15, 2021, and introduced additional travel measures. This pause will apply to international skilled and student cohorts, humanitarian workers, working holidaymakers, provisional family visa holders, and travelers from Japan and South Korea.

All travelers arriving in Australia must have a negative PCR test and complete an Australian traveler declaration form detailing their vaccination status and confirming requirements to comply with state and territory public health requirements.

Anyone who has been in South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Lesotho, Eswatini, Malawi, or Mozambique in the last 14 days who is not a fully vaccinated Australian citizen, permanent resident, or immediate family member will not be permitted to enter Australia. Fully vaccinated Australian citizens, permanent residents, and immediate family members arriving from any of the above countries will be required to enter a supervised quarantine for 14 days, subject to jurisdictional arrangements. Travelers who have already arrived in Australia and have been in any of the countries mentioned above within the past 14 days must immediately isolate themselves, get tested for COVID-19, and adhere to jurisdiction quarantine requirements.

Effective December 15, 2021 eligible fully vaccinated visa holders to enter Australia without needing to apply for a travel exemption beginning December 15, 2021. A list of eligible visa holders can be found here.

These travelers must be:

• Fully vaccinated with a completed dosage of a vaccine approved or recognized by Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)
• Provide proof of their vaccination status
• Hold a valid visa for one of the eligible visa subclasses
• Present a negative COVID-19 Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test taken within three days of departure

Travelers will also be required to comply with the quarantine requirements in the state or territory of their arrival.

Effective November 21, 2021, Australia will introduce quarantine-free travel arrangements for fully vaccinated Singapore citizens and permanent residents. Under this arrangement, fully vaccinated citizens of Singapore will be allowed to travel to Australia without quarantining at the entrance if they can present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure. Click here for guidance regarding entrance into Australia as a fully vaccinated traveler.

The Australian government has introduced a Travel Declaration form to be completed by all incoming travelers. This includes Australian citizens, permanent residents, and everyone transiting through the country. The declaration must be completed online no more than 72 hours prior departure to Australia. Anyone over 15 years old must complete a declaration. Parents of children under 15 years old must complete a declaration for them. The declaration is valid for a single entry only.

Vaccinated Travelers

Everyone in Australia, including temporary visa holders aged 12 years and over, can receive a free COVID-19 vaccination. Vaccinated individuals will receive two doses of the same vaccination unless a single-dose vaccine is administered.

People over the age of 18 and older can receive a booster dose.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

All travelers (including Australian citizens and permanent residents) who are admissible to Australia will be required to self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival in Australia. Strict penalties may apply to those who do not comply.

Status of Government Services

The Department continues to process visa applications, but priority is being given to infrastructure projects and workers and healthcare and medical workers, which means that other occupations and categories (e.g., non-essential workers and applicants outside Australia) will experience significant processing delays. Most Department officers are working remotely while other officers have been reassigned to quarantine-related activities, both of which also impact processing times.

The processing of student visa applications filed outside of Australia will resume so that student visa holders will be ready to travel when the entry restrictions are lifted.

From late September 2020, sponsors (Companies; Individuals; Partnerships, and unincorporated associations) must notify the department in writing of “temporary changes” to the employment arrangements of the sponsored visa holders, such as Reduced working hours, Temporary lay off/stand down, reduced salary, leave without pay, remote working arrangements.

Concessions

• The government will offer a waiver of the visa fee VAC for subsequent applications by affected temporary employer-sponsored skilled migrants, Visitor Visas (who are currently overseas with visas expiring between March 2020 to December 2021 and apply for a new visa), Working holiday visas (who have been unable to come to Australia) and Prospective Marriage visas (who have been unable to enter Australia before their visa expired).
• The visas of Temporary Skilled Visa holders who have been “stood down” (asked to temporarily stop working) but not laid off entirely will remain valid and they will be allowed to extend their visas as needed. However, visa holders who have been terminated must abide by their original visa conditions and must leave Australia within 60 days if they cannot obtain a new position or a different visa. If they cannot return to their home country, they should obtain a different visa (e.g., a Bridging Visa) to remain in Australia.
• Temporary Skilled Visa holders who have been stood down or had their hours reduced will be allowed to access up to AUD 10,000 of their superannuation (pension funds) in this financial year. Other financial resources may also be available to such employees. See https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/jobseeker-payment, https://treasury.gov.au/coronavirus/JobKeeper, and https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/special-benefit for more information.
• If a visa holder who was stood down or terminated is re-employed after the pandemic, their time spent in Australia will count toward their skilled work experience requirement for permanent residency, even if they did not work for part of the time.
• Holders of temporary visas that have just expired or will soon expire who cannot leave Australia due to travel restrictions, who do not qualify for any other visa category, and who plan to conduct an essential service related to the COVID-19 pandemic may qualify for the Subclass 408 visa. Please contact your immigration professional for more information.
• A number of concessions are being implemented for international students in Australia. Namely, visa application charges will be waived for international students who file additional student visa applications if they could not complete their studies under the original visa because of COVID-19. Studies conducted online outside of Australia will count toward the study requirement for a post-study work visa. Graduates who are outside Australia and unable to re-enter due to COVID-19 may apply for a post-study work visa outside Australia. Finally, student visa applicants will have additional time to provide English language results in the event of COVID-19 service interruptions.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Effective March 24, 2022, the Austrian government updated its entry requirements so that all travelers can enter the country so long as they can provide proof of vaccination, evidence of recovery from COVID-19, or a negative COVID-19 test. The following conditions must be met:

• The traveler must have received a two-dose or single-dose approved vaccine for proof of vaccination. The last dose must have been administered between 14 and 270 days before travel. Booster doses are valid for 270 days after being issued
• For proof of recovery, the traveler must hold a medical certificate issued by their government authorities before travel. A certificate of evidence of recovery is considered valid for a period of 180 days
• For proof of a negative COVID-19 test result, the traveler must have undergone PCR testing within 72 hours of travel or rapid antigen testing within 24 hours of travel

For additional information, click here.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Currently, the Austrian government does not require travelers who are permitted to enter the country to undergo quarantine unless the traveler is unable to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result, a vaccination certificate, or proof of having recovered from COVID-19.

Status of Government Services

The immigration offices have begun to reopen. Appointments are required for in-person services.

Some consulates have reopened but these may be offering limited services and may not offer regular visa services. Check with the relevant consulate for its status and service offerings.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Belgium has introduced an entry ban for all travelers except 1) citizens or legal residents of EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and the UK and their family members; 2) non-EU national holders of a Belgian residence permit who are returning home; 3) cross-border workers; 4) EU Blue Card holders whose work cannot be carried out at a distance; 5) travelers in transit; 6) diplomats and personnel of humanitarian and international organizations, or those attending meetings at international organizations; 7) students; and 8) other travelers whose entry is considered essential.

Belgium has thus far elected not to implement the European Council’s recommendation to admit the residents of certain green listed countries for non-essential travel.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

All travelers entering Belgium are subject to a 14-day home quarantine and COVID-19 testing except for travelers entering from certain EU/Schengen countries/regions and some areas of the UK. See this site for details.

All passengers on a flight from outside of the Schengen Area to Belgium must complete a Passenger Locator Form and submit it upon arrival.

Status of Government Services

Some Belgian embassies and consulates have resumed accepting and processing certain visa applications. Please check with the relevant consulate for its status and service offerings.

Applicants for work and single permits are advised to submit applications by email due to ministry closures in the three regions of Belgium.

Town halls are resuming limited services, primarily for urgent cases. Please contact the relevant town hall for its status and service offerings.

Concessions

Employees who cannot leave Belgium due to quarantines, flight cancellations, or travel restrictions and whose residence authorization is due to expire can apply for an extension of stay in Belgium for up to 90 days.

If workers who are normally employed in another EU member state telework in Belgium while the lockdown measures are in place, a Limosa declaration is not required. If a Limosa declaration has already been made and the location of employment in the declaration is not the same as the location of telework, the declaration need not be amended.

Concessions in the Flanders region: The Flanders region will keep applications for which additional information has been requested open beyond the normal 15-day deadline to submit the additional information due to the difficulty in obtaining documents at this time. Also, workers forced into temporary unemployment due to the coronavirus situation will be exempt from meeting the standard minimum salary requirements.

Concessions in the Brussels region: Workers forced into temporary unemployment due to the coronavirus situation will be exempt from meeting the standard minimum salary requirements.

Concessions in the Walloon region: In the event a worker is forced into temporary unemployment, the employer must notify the Walloon Ministry and the employment contract can be suspended.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Effective November 27, 2021, the government of Brazil temporarily restricted entrance into Brazil for foreign nationals who have been in the countries of South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Eswatini in the last 14 days.

This suspension does not apply to the following travelers:

• Foreign nationals with permanent residence, for a fixed or indefinite period
• Foreign nationals working for an international organization that the Brazilian government accredits
• A spouse, partner, child, parent, or guardian of a Brazil citizen or permanent resident;
• Foreign nationals entering for humanitarian reasons
• Holders of a National Migration Registry

Any of the travelers mentioned above who have resided or recently transited through South Africa, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, and Zimbabwe will be required to undergo a 14-day quarantine upon arrival in Brazil.

As of May 14, 2021, flights from India, South Africa, and the UK are suspended until further notice.

Travelers that have transited through India, South Africa, or the UK within 14 days before arrival are banned from entering the country until further notice.

All travelers entering Brazil via air travel, including Brazilian citizens, are required to present a negative PCR test conducted within 72 hours of the flight date. Foreign national travelers are also required to present a certified health statement confirming their health conditions set by the government of Brazil.

Most foreign nationals are still banned from entering by land or sea.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Visitors who will stay for 90 days or less must provide evidence of health insurance that will be valid throughout their stay in Brazil before boarding their flight to Brazil.

Status of Government Services

Many Federal Police offices are closed. Those in Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are beginning to resume services and schedule appointments.

The Ministry of Justice is again processing and adjudicating residence permit applications.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

• Nationals of Bulgaria and their family members;
• Holders of Bulgarian permanent residence permits, long-term residence permits or Prolonged Residence Permits and their family members;
• Nationals of EU and Schengen countries as well as Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and Vatican City;
• Travelers entering from EU and Schengen countries as well as Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and Vatican City and Algeria, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, Morocco, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia, Uruguay and Ukraine;
• Healthcare workers and providers of other essential services; diplomats, cross-border workers, and those entering for humanitarian purposes; and
• Those in transit who are nationals of Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia or Turkey or residents of an EU/Schengen country or Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Status of Government Services

Concessions

NOTE: Foreign nationals from CIP client companies who currently hold a valid Work Permit or a Work Permit pre-approval (through online submission) for Canada and want to enter Canada should contact their CIP immigration professional before travel so CIP can advise on additional documents they will need to bring upon entry. These documents include but are not limited to proof that they have a job to go to and proof that they have a place to quarantine. Family members seeking to enter Canada to reunite with their families should also contact CIP as they may require special authorization prior to travel.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Effective 30 Nov. 2021, the government of Canada implemented enhanced border measures for all travelers who have been in the countries of South Africa, Eswatini, Lesotho, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Namibia, Egypt, Nigeria, and Malawi in the last 14 days before arrival in Canada. Under these enhanced border measures, foreign nationals who have traveled in any of the countries mentioned above within the past 14 days will not be permitted to enter Canada. Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and people with a status under the Indian Act will be required to:

Before Arrival:

• Obtain a valid negative COVID-19 molecular test in a third country within 72 hours before departure to Canada

After Arrival:

• Take an on-arrival COVID-19 molecular test
• Undergo a 14-day quarantine upon arrival
• Complete a COVID-19 molecular test on day eight after arrival

These requirements apply regardless of vaccination status or past recovery from COVID-19. Impacted travelers will also be required to refer to the Public Health Agency of Canada to ensure they have suitable quarantine plans, and travelers who arrive by air will be necessary to remain in a designated quarantine facility until they receive their post-arrival test result.

Beginning November 30, 2021, fully vaccinated Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and individuals registered under the Indian Act who depart and re-enter Canada within 72 hours will not be required to present a pre-entry molecular test. This will apply to individuals traveling by land and air and any accompanying children under the age of 12 and individuals with medical contraindications to vaccination.

Effective November 30, 2021, the Canadian government will no longer accept a COVID-19 molecular test as an alternative to vaccination. The government will also introduce a transitionary period for unvaccinated foreign nationals to travel from Canada until 28 Feb. 2021. These individuals will be required to present proof of a valid COVID-19 molecular test at the time of travel.

On October 29, 2021, the Canadian government will lift restrictions on direct flights from Morocco to Canada. Travelers must adhere to current protocols for fully vaccinated travelers and unvaccinated travelers, including presenting proof of the Moroccan COVID-19 PCR Test Certificate.

Beginning October 30, 2021, the Canadian government will require travelers to be fully vaccinated in order to board flights and travel from a Canadian airport. All vaccination requirements will apply to travelers 12 years of age and older who are:

• Air passengers flying on domestic, trans-border, or international flights departing from an airport in Canada
• Rail passengers on VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer trains

For travelers who are in the process of being fully vaccinated, there will be a transition period in which travel will be possible if a valid COVID-19 molecular test taken within 72 hours of travel can be presented.

As of September 29, 2021, the Canadian government will allow direct commercial and private flights from India to Canada.

Vaccinated Travelers

Beginning August 9, 2021, US citizens and permanent residents will be able to travel to Canada for discretionary reasons if they are fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to arrival.

Fully vaccinated travelers from the rest of the world will be permitted entry to Canada beginning September 7, 2021.

Unvaccinated children do not need to quarantine for 14 days if accompanying a fully vaccinated parent, but still, need to do full testing requirements and likely avoid certain areas within Canada.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

As of February 22, 2021, all air travelers, with some exceptions, will be required to take a COVID-19 molecular test when they arrive in Canada before exiting the airport, and another toward the end of their 14-day quarantine period. Air travelers will also be required to reserve prior to departure to Canada, a 3-night stay in a government-authorized hotel. Travelers will be required to stay at their reserved hotel for up to 3 nights, at their own cost, while they await the results of their arrival test.

All travelers, whether arriving by land or air will be required to submit their travel and contact information, including a suitable quarantine plan, electronically via ArriveCAN before crossing the border or boarding a flight. All travelers arriving in Canada must also continue to submit COVID-related information electronically daily throughout the quarantine period. In addition, travelers must avoid all contact with others in their household with whom they did not travel.

Travelers coming from countries where the required PCR testing is unavailable will be required to quarantine in a designated Public Health Agency of Canada quarantine facility for 14 days. Air travelers entering Canada must comply with mandatory hotel quarantine at their expense to await the results of a COVID test.

Most travelers entering Canada, including Canadian citizens and permanent residents, will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days after arrival. Exemptions apply to some categories of travelers, including crew members; military personnel; and providers of essential services (according to the Chief Public Health Officer), emergency services, or medical services, among others. Harsh penalties including fines, imprisonment, and bars to entry may apply to those who violate the Quarantine Act. Those who would normally be allowed to enter but who show symptoms of illness will be barred from entering.

Arriving travelers must wear a face covering on entry and en route to their quarantine location and must present a detailed quarantine plan to the CBSA border officer describing where they will quarantine, how they will get from the airport to their lodging without using public transportation, how they will acquire essential supplies (as they are not allowed to leave their lodging for groceries, etc.), and how they will care for children and pets if any. Travelers may not quarantine with any “vulnerable persons” (those over 65 years of age or with compromised immune systems or medical conditions that increase their risk of contracting COVID-19). Each traveler must complete a “Coronavirus Form” detailing their address and contact information in Canada.

Employers with workers arriving in or returning to Canada are responsible for accommodating the self-quarantine and ensuring their workers are following their quarantine plan. Employers must pay isolating employees the wage indicated in the work permit application for at least 30 hours per week, even if they are not working due to quarantine. Service Canada is conducting remote compliance inspections to confirm that employers are accommodating their workers’ self-isolation and complying with related requirements. Those that do not comply may be subject to a fine of up to CAD one million and may be banned from using the temporary foreign worker program.

Airlines are required to prevent travelers of any nationality with virus symptoms from boarding flights to Canada. Those allowed on flights are required to wear a face mask.
Temporary workers and students whose status will expire in the next six months should file a renewal application online as soon as possible and should remain in Canada, as they may have difficulty re-entering.

Status of Government Services

Many Canadian Visa Application Centers (VACs) are temporarily closed. Some are open but provide limited services and it may be difficult to obtain an appointment. Find more information here.

There are processing delays for permanent and temporary residence applications. There is limited access to local government offices and doctors to perform immigration medical exams.

Canadian authorities are processing Temporary Residence Visas (TRVs) and Electronic Travel Authorizations (ETAs) again to reduce the backlog. However, the issuance of one of these documents does not mean the bearer is permitted to enter Canada. The bearer will still be subject to border closures and travel restrictions unless he/she meets one of the exemption categories.

All Canadian consulates are prioritizing applications related to COVID-19 relief (e.g. healthcare professionals, supply chain workers) prior to others. Accordingly, the processing of consular filings remains severely delayed, and consular processing times are unpredictable. However, it is still advisable to file applications to get them in the queue.
Biometrics collection in the US is recommencing, albeit in an unreliable fashion. There are glitches with the appointment system where confirmed biometric dates are haphazardly changed without warning.

IRCC Service Update: IRCC Is also prioritizing applications for essential workers that directly assist with the COVID-19 effort, and all other applications filed online are moved to the back of the queue. Paper applications for Permanent Residence and Citizenship can still be submitted, but applications for visitor records, study permits, and work permits should be submitted online. IRCC has implemented measures to support foreign nationals affected by service disruptions or travel restrictions due to the novel coronavirus. Please see the IRCC website for details.

Service Canada Service Update: Service Canada centers are beginning to reopen, with some offices open while others remain closed. The new eServiceCanada portal allows those requiring assistance from Service Canada to submit an online request and receive a callback from a Service Canada officer within two business days. Despite the reopenings, online services should be used whenever possible. Employers may be granted some flexibility in reporting changes to employment conditions (e.g., wage changes, furloughs). Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) applications can now be filed by email and fax. 12 and 24-month reviews for Labour Market Benefit Plans are suspended as are on-site compliance inspections. Online applications for Social Insurance Numbers are no longer possible. Applicants must submit paper applications with original supporting documents that will be returned after processing.

Concessions

The validity of positive LMIAs should be extended from 6 months to 9 months, however, employers should check on a case-by-case basis to see if this applies.

Foreign nationals who need to complete biometrics or medical exams for an application to IRCC and are unable to do so due to service interruptions can be granted an extension from 30 days to 90 days.

Certain priority occupations, primarily in the agricultural and food service industries, will be eligible for expedited processing and exempt from the advertising requirement. Please contact your immigration professional for more information.

Change of employer applicants is allowed to begin work with their new employer 10 days after filing the change of conditions application, while it continues to be adjudicated.
Delays in start dates for foreign nationals who have been issued Canadian work authorization but cannot start their employment/assignment with the Canadian entity due to internal company policies should generally be allowed.

IRCC has implemented measures to support foreign nationals affected by service disruptions or travel restrictions due to the novel coronavirus. Please see the IRCC website for details.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Effective November 1, 2021, foreign nationals entering Chile will be required to:

• Prior to Departure:
  • Validate their vaccination certificate at least 48 hours prior to departure
  • Submit an affidavit at least 48 hours prior to departure
  • Provide a negative PCR test taken up to 72 hours prior to departure
• After Arrival:
  • Remain in isolation until a negative PCR test can be produced

Travelers are expected to transit directly from the point of entry into the country to the declared address where the quarantine period will be completed. Travelers are also required to have medical insurance with a minimum coverage of USD $30,000.

Effective November 1, 2021 citizens and residents of Chile entering the country will be required to:

• Prior to Departure:
  • Provide proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to departure
  • Submit a sworn affidavit at least 48 hours prior to departure
• After Arrival:
  • Hold a valid Mobility Pass
  • Complete a seven-day quarantine

Nonresident foreign nationals will be allowed to enter Chile without a Mobility Pass under limited exemptions. For additional information concerning the Mobility Pass, click here.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Testing and Isolation Requirements:

• All individuals regardless of nationality, who have received a booster shot applied within six months of travel and registered the booster shot in the Mobility Pass will be exempt from testing and isolation requirements upon entrance into the country
• All individuals who have the Mobility Pass, but have not received a booster shot must be tested at the point of entry into Chile and self-isolate until receiving a negative test result
• All individuals, regardless of nationality, who do not have validated vaccination information must be tested and quarantine for five days regardless of a negative test result

Vaccinated Travelers

As of August 6, 2021, foreign nationals and Chilean citizens who have received a COVID-19 vaccination abroad are allowed to travel to Chile by getting their vaccination verified by the Chilean government and obtaining a Mobility Pass. Vaccine verifications can be done online through this website.

Status of Government Services

As of April 15, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has suspended non-urgent legalization services until further notice.

All Chilean consulates have ceased issuing visas until further notice. The domestic Migration Department is still working, but the Ministry of Foreign Affairs abroad is not. The Migration Department is currently working from home, so there will be delays in processing.

Applicants in Chile are still able to file applications for visas in Chile. Foreign nationals who entered as a tourist before the border closure are able to apply for a visa to live, study, and/or work in Chile. Those who entered Chile before March 18 can apply for residency in-country.

For foreign nationals who receive approvals, the Migration Department is working on providing electronic stamps or “Electronic Provisionary Stamping.” Not everyone will receive this, as it is a work in progress and being launched incrementally.

From April 15 to October 12, 2021, the administrative office will not be accepting permanent resident applications from citizens of Brazil, Haiti, Cuba, China, or Peru. Citizens of these countries are required to submit permanent resident applications online through the Immigration Department. Beginning October 13, those who submitted their applications online will have 60 days to validate the records they submitted online.

Concessions

The Policía de Investigaciones (PDI) has arranged for several processes to be conducted via its website: Certificate of Vigency of Permanent Residence, Residence Certificate, copy of visa registration, change of address or activity, certificate of missing documents, Tourist Card copy, and Travel Certificate.

The time in which to inform the Migration Department about a change of employer has been extended to 180 days, counted from the end date of the contract with the previous employer.

The Migration Department is giving applicants for Permanent Residence who have filed incomplete applications 120 days to submit the information/documentation required to complete the application, up from the usual five days. The deadline is counted from the notification date.

All drivers’ licenses that will expire in 2020 will be automatically extended for one year.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

The National Immigration Administration of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has published a policy indicating that foreign nationals who hold any type of visa or residence permit will not be permitted to enter China due to the COVID-19 situation.

Foreign nationals whose entry or reentry is absolutely necessary can go through an entry authorization process despite the general border closure. This entails submission and approval of an entry authorization request at the FAO in the destination city/jurisdiction in China, followed by submission and approval of an entry visa request through the Chinese Consulate with jurisdiction over the applicant’s place of residence. (Consulates are processing these requests despite their general closures). The entry visa request is for the usual visa categories (M Visa, L Visa, etc.) rather than a special visa category for the special entry authorization. If the visa is approved the foreign national may enter China and may be able to apply for a Work Permit or Residence Permit in the country.

Beijing has canceled the majority of incoming and outgoing flights to and from its two airports due to a new outbreak of COVID-19. Beijing residents are to avoid non-essential travel outside the city.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Most major metropolitan areas in China now require travelers entering from nearly all foreign destinations, including the United States, to undergo screening for COVID-19 and perform 14 days of monitored quarantine, either in their residence or in a Chinese facility, with the quarantine location determined based on their risk of COVID-19 infection.

For Shanghai, as of May 16, 2021, all travelers arriving at Shanghai airport from abroad will be sent to a designated location outside the airport after clearing immigration to take a COVID-19 test. The airport will provide transportation to the location and travelers will need to stay there for about 24 hours waiting for the test result. Travelers who have been in the following countries in the last 14 days will be sent to a designated location for both testing and a 14-day quarantine, provided they pass the test: South Korea, Italy, Iran, Japan, France, Spain, Germany, United States, Belgium, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Sweden, Norway, Netherlands, Denmark, Australia, Austria, Malaysia, Greece, Czech Republic, Finland, Qatar, Canada, and Saudi Arabia.

For travelers not from the above countries, those who pass the test and have a fixed residence in Shanghai will be sent to their residence for a mandatory 14-day self-quarantine. Those who pass the test but do not have a fixed residence in Shanghai will be sent to a designated hotel in Shanghai for a 14-day self-quarantine. In all cases, those who test positive for COVID-19 will be sent to a medical facility. After the 14-day quarantine, Shanghai will continue to implement community health monitoring for 7 days.
Foreign nationals applying for a residence permit and medical exam in Shanghai, Chongqing, Chengdu, Beijing, Chendu, Shenzhen or Guangzhou are subject to a 14-day quarantine.

China is not issuing business visa endorsements for Hong Kong SAR.

Status of Government Services

Foreign nationals who enter China after May 16, 2021, and need to do a medical check-up must wait 21 days from the date of arrival. Travelers must bring their certificate of quarantine (14 days) and community health monitoring (7 days) to their medical check-up.
Chinese officials have indicated that they will begin providing visas again only to foreign nationals who have taken a Chinese COVID-19 vaccine. Foreign nationals who have taken a Chinese COVID-19 vaccine will be eligible to apply for visas under the same pre-pandemic rules and regulations.

Eligible applicants are encouraged to check statements published by the relevant Chinese embassy where they would be applying for a visa for more information on this upcoming change.

Most Chinese consulates are closed except for the processing of visas for exceptional entry authorization (see Travel Restrictions and Permissions above) and other exceptional applications.

Concessions

All Chinese visas and residence permits will be automatically extended for two months beyond their expiration dates in Shanghai.

Most Expert Bureaus are allowing applicants to apply online instead of appearing at the Bureaus in person. Original paper files must be kept in the event the documents need to be verified later and employers and employees must attest to the authenticity of the online application.

Foreign nationals with residence permit that expired while they were out of the country may obtain a visa-on-arrival by presenting their expired residence permit at the port of entry.
The requirement to file work permit renewal applications at least 30 days before the expiration date has been suspended temporarily.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

1. Fill out the pre-check form in the “CheckMig” application here www.migracioncolombia.gov.co24 hours in advance and up to 1 hour before the flight closes. This tool will allow travelers, nationals and foreigners to preload all the information related to their trip.
2. Present a PCR test with a negative result issued no longer than 96 hours before the flight. Travelers with fever and respiratory symptoms will not be allowed to board the flight.
3. Report the health status through the “Coronapp” application and respond to the tracking that their insurer or the secretary of health should do.
4. Report to EPS (health provider) if during the 14 days after the trip, the passenger presents symptoms of Covid-19.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Status of Government Services

• Issuance of a foreigner’s ID card (for initial, renewal and duplicate applications)
• Foreigner’s registration
• Temporary Stay Permit to change permission
• Extension of Permanence
• Certificate of Migratory Movement
• Certificate of Migratory Movement and Nationality
• Safe-stay permit SC-1 and SC-2, with certain exceptions

Concessions

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

The Costa Rican President has announced that effective March 24, 2020, all foreign nationals with regular status in Costa Rica (permanent residents and holders of residence permits, stay visas, student visas, work permits, special category visas and others) who leave the country will automatically lose their legal immigration status. This measure is expected to be in place until at least July 31, 2020 and such foreign nationals are not allowed to re-enter until at least August 1, 2020.

All visitors, including business visitors, are banned from entering the country until at least July 31, 2020. Legal residents (holders of work permits, resident permits, stay visas, student visas and special category visas) who left the country before March 24, 2020 as well as Costa Rican nationals and diplomats will be allowed to re-enter.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Those who are permitted to enter Costa Rica are subject to a 14-day quarantine upon entry.

Status of Government Services

The Immigration Department will not receive new applications of any kind until September 21, 2020 but will continue processing pending applications until that time. The Department will continue to issue notices of approval and denial by email or fax only.

Processing and issuance of new and extended ID cards (DIMEX) will continue through Banco de Costa Rica.

Concessions

Birth, criminal record and marriage certificates, as well as other documents issued abroad that expire(d) between March 17 and September 18, 2020 will be considered valid until September 18, 2020.

Stay Visas that expire(d) after March 17, 2020, will be automatically extended until August 18, 2020.

Visitors who entered Costa Rica after December 17, 2019 may legally remain in Costa Rica until November 18, 2020.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Effective March 18, 2022, the government of the Czech Republic updated its entry requirements and its risk level assessment of countries and regions impacted by COVID-19. Under these changes, eligible individuals traveling to the Czech Republic from another European Union (EU) member state will not be required to present proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19, evidence of having recovered from COVID-19, or proof of a negative test result. For a list of eligible individuals, click here.

Any individual traveling to the Czech Republic from a non-EU member state will be required to:

• Fill out a Passenger Locator Form
• Provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19, or evidence of recovery from COVID-19, or evidence of a negative PCR or RAT (Rapid Antigen Test) test taken before arrival and undergo additional testing after arrival

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Currently, the government of the Czech Republic does not require travelers who are permitted to enter the country to undergo quarantine.

Status of Government Services

Foreign nationals holding Schengen visas that expired during the Czech Republic’s state of emergency are not required to apply for an extension to the visa at this time.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Effective March 29, 2022, the government of Denmark lifted all restrictions for travelers entering the country. Regardless of their vaccination status, all travelers will no longer be required to present proof of vaccination, evidence of recovery from COVID-19, or a negative COVID-19 test to enter Denmark.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

As of March 29, 2022, fully vaccinated travelers are not required to undergo a quarantine period when entering Denmark.

Unvaccinated travelers or partially vaccinated travelers entering Denmark from a high-risk country or region will be required to undergo a ten-day quarantine period. This quarantine period can be reduced to six days if the traveler can produce a negative COVID-19 PCR test.

Quarantine requirements do not apply to travelers from a European Union or Schengen Area country.

Concessions

The Danish Immigration service set the deadline for departing Denmark per the ordinary rules, revoking extensions applied during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Effective November 28, 2021, the government of Finland restricted entry into the country at its external borders from travelers, regardless of vaccination status, who have been in the countries of Botswana, Eswatini, South Africa, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, or Zimbabwe during the 14 days before arrival in Finland. Limit exemptions, such as compelling family matters and personal reasons, will apply to travelers entering Finland. Citizens and permanent residents of Finland will still be permitted to enter Finland.

All fully vaccinated travelers with an approved COVID-19 vaccine may enter Finland from any country without having to undergo health security measures, such as COVID-19 testing at the border.

Finish citizens, their family members, and permanent residents of Finland have the right to return to Finland. People may also travel freely to Finland from other EU and Schengen countries.

When arriving in Finland, travelers must present proof of complete vaccination with an approved COVID-19 vaccine, evidence of recovery from COVID-19 within the past six months, or proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken before arrival. For additional information, click here.

When arriving in Finland from outside the EU and Schengen area, travelers who have not been vaccinated with an approved COVID-19 vaccine may enter Finland only from countries on the EU’s green list or for essential reasons.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Currently, the Finish government does not require travelers who are permitted to enter the country to undergo quarantine.

Status of Government Services

Finnish consular posts are closed for most services.

Concessions

Due to consular post closures, applicants for residence permits who normally have three months from the date of their online application to submit supporting documents to consular posts now have until August 31, 2020, to do so.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

The government of France has updated its list of red list countries to include Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. For a comprehensive list of red list countries and territories, click here. Travelers who have been in these countries are only permitted to travel to France on pressing grounds for travel.

On December 8, 2021, the government of France introduced new border control measures for travelers leaving and entering the country. Travelers entering the country will be required to adhere to the following requirements based on the country or territory risk level:

Fully Vaccinated Travelers from Green-List Countries and Territories

• Present proof of vaccination status and a sworn COVID-19 statement
• A negative PCR or antigen test was taken less than 48 hours before departure
• Travelers from the Member States of the European Union, Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, the Holy See, or Switzerland are exempt from this requirement

Unvaccinated Travelers from Green-List Countries and Territories

• Present a certificate of recovery dated more than 11 days and less than six months or a negative PCR test taken less than 48 hours before departure or a negative antigen test was taken less than 24 hours before departure
• Travelers from the Member States of the European Union, Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, the Holy See, or Switzerland must present a negative PCR or antigen test taken less than 24 hours before departure

Upon arrival, all Green-List countries and territories travelers must complete a sworn COVID-19 statement and undergo a COVID-19 test.

Fully Vaccinated Travelers from Amber-List Countries and Territories

• Present proof of vaccination status and a sworn COVID-19 statement
• Provide a negative PCR or antigen test result taken no less than 48 hours before departure

Unvaccinated Travelers from Amber-List Countries and Territories

• Present a PCR or antigen test taken less than 48 hours before departure
• If traveling from the UK, a negative PCR or antigen test result taken less than 48 hours before departure is required

All travelers from Amber-List countries and territories may be subject to additional screening upon arrival. Travelers are also required to complete a sworn COVID-19 statement and undergo a COVID-19 test, and self-isolate for a period of seven days. A negative PCR test must be presented at the end of the isolation period.

Fully Vaccinated Travelers from Red-List Countries and Territories

• Present proof of vaccination status and a sworn COVID-19 statement
• Provide a negative PCR or antigen test result taken no less than 48 hours before departure

Unvaccinated Travelers from Red-List Countries and Territories

• Provide proof of a compelling reason
• Provide a negative PCR or antigen test taken no less than 48 hours before departure
• Take a PCR or antigen test upon arrival
• Self-isolate for ten days

All Travelers from Scarlet-List Countries and Territories

• Provide proof of a compelling reason
• Provide a sworn COVID-19 statement
• Provide a negative PCR test taken no less than 48 hours before departure or a negative antigen test taken no less than 24 hours before departure
• Provide proof of a quarantine address
• Undergo a ten-day quarantine

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Travelers arriving from Amber-list, Red-list, and Scarlet-list countries and territories will be required to undergo a minimum quarantine period of 10 days. For additional information, click here.

Status of Government Services

French consulates have started to reopen. Online appointments are required. Please contact the relevant consulate for their status and service offerings.

Immigration authorities such as OFII and the prefectures have started to reopen, but with restrictions in place such that contact with the public will be limited and only certain applications will be processed. Prefecture appointments in Paris and Lyon canceled during the lockdown period will be rescheduled. Prefectures will contact applicants to reschedule.

Concessions

All French visas (except short-stay/C visas), residency permits, “récépissés” (receipts), or “APSes” that expired between March 16 and June 15, 2020, have been automatically extended for six months. Holders of short-stay visas and foreign nationals staying under a visa waiver who cannot leave France are eligible for extensions beyond the usual Schengen stay limit (90 days in any 180-day period). Extensions can be applied for at the relevant Préfecture. Those with expired permits that have been automatically extended are advised to not leave France, as they may have difficulty re-entering.

French citizens who are returning to France between March 1, 2020, and September 30, 2020, without professional activity are immediately registered with the French Social Security scheme. Spouses of assignees who are not employed any longer have to prove three months of consecutive residence in France to be registered with the French Social Security program.

Students who hold a Residence Permit can now work for 1,285 hours each year, which totals 80% of the year. Previously, they were only allowed to work for 60% of the year. This change remains in effect until the higher education system in France returns to normal.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Effective March 31, 2022, travelers from the European Union and the Schengen Economic Area are permitted to enter the country regardless of the purpose of travel. Other travelers can enter the country if they have received a complete vaccine regimen against COVID-19 at least 14 days before traveling to Germany and can provide proof of vaccination. German nationals and long-term residents are permitted to enter the country regardless of vaccination status.

Skilled and highly skilled foreign national employees are permitted to enter the country for business purposes.

Fully vaccinated travelers and those who have recovered from COVID-19 are permitted to enter the country so long as they provide proof of vaccination or evidence of recovery. Recovered travelers must also provide proof of a negative PCR test taken 28-90 days before entry. The results must be presented in German, English, French, Italian, or Spanish.

Unvaccinated travelers must provide proof of a negative PCR test or rapid antigen test taken no more than 48 hours before entering Germany.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Currently, the German government does not require travelers who are permitted to enter the country to undergo quarantine unless the traveler is unable to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result, a vaccination certificate, or evidence of having recovered from COVID-19.

Status of Government Services

The immigration offices have begun to reopen. Appointments are required for in-person services.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Effective December 15, 2021, the authorities of Hong Kong will not permit foreign nationals who have been in Mauritius and Sierra Leone within the last 21 days to enter Hong Kong. Hong Kong residents who have been in these countries in the previous 21 days are only permitted to board a flight to Hong Kong if they are fully vaccinated and hold a vaccination certificate.

The authorities of Hong Kong will not permit foreign nationals who have been in the countries of Estonia and Uganda within the last 21 days to enter Hong Kong. Hong Kong residents who have been in these countries over the previous three weeks (21 days) are only permitted to board a flight to Hong Kong if they are fully vaccinated and hold a vaccination certificate.

Travelers entering from the countries mentioned above will be required to:

• Undergo a 21-day quarantine at a designated hotel quarantine location
• Complete six COVID-19 tests administered during the quarantine period
• Complete a COVID-19 test at a community testing center 26 days after entering the country

All travelers except for Hong Kong residents seeking entry from overseas by plane are banned from entering.

All travelers except for Hong Kong residents seeking entry from Mainland China, Macau SAR, or Taiwan who have been overseas in the past 14 days are banned from entering.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

All travelers entering Hong Kong (including Hong Kong residents and those arriving from Mainland China, Macau, and Taiwan) are subject to a 14-day home quarantine, with very few exceptions.

All travelers without COVID-19 symptoms arriving at Hong Kong International Airport will be tested for COVID-19.

Travelers entering from countries considered high risk must be tested for COVID-19 before arrival and present evidence of a negative result on arrival.

Status of Government Services

The use of the LeaveHomeSafe app will be required for persons between the ages of 12 and 65 when entering government buildings. Exempt individuals will be required to complete a record form with their name, first four digits or letters of their identification documents, their contact number, and the date and time of the visit. All visitors to government offices should ensure they have relevant identification documents for verification.

All divisions of the Hong Kong Immigration Department are now open and processing all cases. Processing times should now return to normal, with new and renewal visa applications taking four to six weeks to be processed.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Effective March 7, 2022, the government of Hungary lifted all COVID-19 travel restrictions. Travelers will no longer be required to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19, a negative test result, or evidence of having recovered from COVID-19 to enter the country.

Beginning May 3, 2021, all foreign national residents of Hungary are eligible to apply for COVID-19 vaccination in Hungary (with or without Hungarian social security). Applicants can apply by filling out this online form.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

The government of Hungary removed all quarantine and additional testing requirements for travelers entering the country on March 7, 2022.

Status of Government Services

Most consulates have reopened based on local conditions.

Concessions

The government of Hungary has applied automatic extensions until June 30, 2022, for residence and immigration documents that were due to expire between November 4, 2022, and February 28, 2022.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Fully vaccinated travelers are not required to upload a negative RT-PCR test to the Air Suvidha portal but must instead upload proof of vaccination against COVID-19.

All travelers must complete and submit a self-declaration form at least 72 hours before departure for India. All travelers will need to undergo thermal screening upon arrival. Symptomatic travelers will be isolated and re-tested.

Upon entry, 2 percent of all travelers will be selected for random testing regardless of vaccination status. Travelers chosen for testing will be permitted to travel throughout the airport while waiting for the test sample results.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Any traveler who tests positive for COVID-19 upon arrival or while in the country will be required to isolate for seven days.

All other travelers are required to self-monitor for 14 days after arrival.

Status of Government Services

As of April 14, 2021, the Indian government has resumed the issuance of e-Business visas, e-Medical visas, e-Medical Attendant Visas, and e-Conference visas.

The validity dates of regular visas, e-visas or stay stipulation period for foreign nationals who cannot leave the country due to travel restrictions have been extended until August 31, 2021. Foreign nationals whose visas have expired are required to apply for an exit permit on the e-FRRO portal before leaving the country. They will be permitted to leave without penalty.

All other Indian visa services (excluding in-country registration, visa extension, and other in-country services) are suspended until further notice. Those that wish to extend or convert their visa in India may contact the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or Foreigners Registration Office (FRO), which remain operational.

Foreign nationals require an appointment to visit the FRRO or FRO in person.

Concessions

The Embassy of India has extended the timeline for re-issuing Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) cards to December 31, 2022. This will lengthen the validity of expired cards until December 31, 2022, and allow additional time for individuals to renew expired cards. Individuals will need to carry their most recent passport and OCI card when traveling.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

The government of Indonesia has implemented new restrictions for international travelers arriving in Indonesia. Under these restrictions, foreign national travelers who have stayed or traveled through South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Malawi, Zambia, Angola, and Hong Kong in the last 14 days will not be permitted to enter Indonesia. Single-entry or stay visas (ITAS) for foreign nationals from South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Malawi, Zambia, Angola, and Hong Kong will be temporarily suspended.

Due to the quickly rising covid-19 cases in Indonesia, the covid-19 task force has issued Circular no. 8 of 2021, which implements a set of new restrictions in an effort to curb the spread of the virus and which regulates the following restrictions on domestic travels:

Any mode of transport, including flights (1) from the Java island to Bali and vice versa, (2) between cities on the Java island, and (3) from and to cities on the Java island require proof of first vaccination and negative PCR result of maximum 2×24 hours old.

In addition, as of 6 July 2021:

When entering Indonesia International travelers (both foreign and Indonesian citizens) must:

• Perform a PCR test upon entry; and
• Undergo quarantine in a quarantine hotel for 8 days
• Perform a PCR test on the 7th day of quarantine
• Once the foreigners are released from quarantine, the task force recommends them to do an additional 14-day home quarantine

Foreigners are required to show physical and digital proof that they have been fully vaccinated.

Foreigners who are already in Indonesia and who wish to travel internationally or domestically are required to be vaccinated. Foreigners who enter Indonesia using the Travel Corridor Arrangement may be excluded from this requirement.

In addition, the MLHR Circular requires applicants of single-entry visit visas and limited stay permits (ITAS) to attach the following documents:

• A negative PCR test result, with QR code
• Evidence of being fully vaccinated
• Statement letter of willingness to quarantine for 8 days in a designated facility (hotel)

These requirements above do not apply for applicants who apply while being in Indonesia (on-shore application).

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

On October 13, 2021, the Indonesian government announced changes to restrictions on quarantine requirements. Quarantine periods will:

• Be reduced from eight days to five days for travelers from countries with low COVID-19 cases
• Be increased from eight to 14 days for travelers from countries with high COVID-19 cases

The government also confirmed that international travelers will only be permitted to enter Indonesia through the Jakarta and Manado airport.

Foreign nationals who are allowed to enter are required to present a Negative PCR Covid-19 Certificate in English on arrival. The health certificate must be no more than seven days old. They must also undergo a medical exam at the port of entry that includes an interview, a temperature check, a check for COVID-19 symptoms, an oxygen saturation test, and a Rapid Test for COVID-19. If the foreigners are not able to provide this, then the Health Officer at the Airport will bring the foreigners to the Hospital or Quarantine Facility to perform a PCR test. While waiting for the test result (3-5 days), the foreigners must remain in quarantine in one of the special hotels (at their own costs) appointed by the officers:

• If the result is Negative, the foreigners are allowed to continue to go to their destination city;
• If the result is Positive, the foreigners remain in quarantine until the result is Negative

Foreign nationals with a non-reactive Rapid Test will be given health clearance by the Ministry of Health officers in the quarantine facilities, will be issued a Health Alert Card (HAC), may proceed to their destination, and must complete a 14-day self-quarantine. The health clearance is submitted to the representatives of the foreign national’s country in Indonesia to be forwarded to the local regency/city health office for monitoring during the self-quarantine period.

Foreign nationals with a reactive Rapid Test will be subject to a Covid-19 RT-PCR test. If the RT-PCR test result is negative and no disease symptoms or risk factors are found in the medical exam, the foreign national may proceed to their destination and complete a 14-day quarantine. Health clearance is submitted to the representatives of their country as above. If the RT-PCR test result is positive, foreign nationals with comorbidities or symptoms will be referred to a hospital. Foreign nationals without comorbidities or symptoms are subject to quarantine at a quarantine facility.

Travelers (both Indonesian citizens and foreign nationals) are not allowed to arrive at or depart from I Gusti Ngurah Ray Airport in Bali unless they present the results of a negative PCR swab test for COVID-19 that are not more than seven days old. The airlines are required to enforce this requirement. Also, travelers planning to enter Bali must complete the form available at https://cekdiri.baliprov.go.id. Once the form is completed, a QR code is issued, which needs to be presented to the admitting officers at the airport.

Indonesian employers of Mainland Chinese employees are required to file a report with the Ministry of Manpower that includes the names and home countries of their foreign national workers and details on the employer’s actions to halt the spread of the virus, as well as other information.

Status of Government Services

• Visit Visa or APEC Cardholders who are currently in Indonesia and whose visa/APEC card expires during the lockdown period (PPKM), can extend their visit visa / APEC Card:
  • For Java and Bali: online through the immigration web portal. The application will be processed after the PPKM ends;
  • Outside Java and Bali: online through the immigration web portal

Note: actual implementation of the pure online application is not yet implemented by all local immigration offices. Some offices are still open for manual applications for urgent applications.

• The application for a new visit visa / limited stay permit (ITAS) must be submitted before the expiry date of the current visa/permit. In case the visa/permit is not issued before the expiry date of the current visa/permit, it will not be counted as overstay, as long as the submission of the application of the new visa/permit is done before the expiry date of the current visa/permit.
• Visit Visa and Limited Stay Permit (ITAS) holders in Indonesia who are in the last extension of their visa/permit, will be granted a new visit visa/stay permit after obtaining Visa Approval. Prior to the application of a new Limited Stay Permit (ITAS), ITAS holders must process the cancellation of their current stay permit (EPO).
• Foreigners will not be granted a new visit visa or limited stay permit in the following cases:
  • Overstay of more than 60 (sixty) days;
  • Foreigners who are deported; and/or
  • Rejection of the application for a new or extension of a visa/permit

Concessions

• Telex Limited Stay Visas (VTT) (which have been issued since January 1, 2020, and which are valid for 60 days) will be automatically extended for the duration of the COVID-19 crisis and can be used to pick up the VTT at an Indonesian embassy or consulate once the COVID-19 crisis is over. Note that this only applies to Telex VTTs and not to Telex Single-Entry Business Visas (SEBVs) or Telex Multiple-Entry Business Visas (MEBVs).
• A VTT that has been issued by an Indonesian embassy or consulate on or after January 1, 2020, but has not been used due to the travel ban will be automatically extended and can be used once the COVID-19 crisis is over. Note that this does not apply to a SEBV or MEBV.
• SEBV and MEBV holders who have already extended their license may convert their visit permit to a stay permit (ITAS), as long as they meet ITAS requirements. Those sponsored by a company would first need to apply for a work permit.
• ITAS and ITAP holders who are still in Indonesia and have received an emergency permit because their permit expired can extend their permit or can apply for a telex VTT or a telex MEBV/SEBV online from within Indonesia instead of completing the process at an Indonesian embassy or consulate abroad. Once they have received their telex visa, they can pay the required government fees at the local immigration office.
• Single Entry Visit Permit holders residing in Indonesia who have received an Emergency Permit because their Single-Entry Visit Permit has expired and who have no means to leave Indonesia have until August 8, 2020, to extend their visit permit or convert their visit permit to a stay permit (ITAS).

Note that the implementation of these concessions may differ by the immigration office, so available options must be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

As of July 19, 2021, Ireland is participating in a new “Emergency Brake” system.

Emergency Brake

Ireland is taking part in the “Emergency Brake” mechanism which is to be coordinated at the EU level. This can be applied to specific non-EEA countries in order to protect against the importation of Covid-19 variants.

Where the Emergency Brake has not been applied:

• If the passenger has valid proof of vaccination, no travel-related testing or quarantine will be necessary.
• If the passenger does not have valid proof of vaccination, they will be required to:
  • Present evidence of negative RT-PCR test results within 72 hours prior to arrival.
  • Self-quarantine.
  • Undergo post-arrival testing – this is provided by the Health Service Executive.

Where the Emergency Brake has been applied:

• If the passenger has valid proof of vaccination, they will need to:
  • Produce a negative result from an RT-PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival.
  • Undergo self-quarantine.
  • Undergo post-arrival testing – this will be provided through the Health Service Executive also.
• If the passenger does not have valid proof of vaccination, they will need to:
  • Produce evidence of a negative result from a PCR test undertaken no more than 72 hours before arrival.
  • Undergo mandatory hotel quarantine (this must be prepaid).
  • Undergo post-arrival testing.

EU Digital Covid Certificate

From July 19, 2021, the Irish Government will also be taking part in the EU Digital Covid Certificate scheme. This will only apply to travel originating within the EEA and only to EU citizens and residents.

The certificate will act as proof that the bearer has:

• Been vaccinated against Covid-19; or
• Received a negative test result for Covid-19; or
• Recovered from Covid-19;

Holding this certificate will act to exempt the holder of it from being subject to free movement restrictions.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

All travelers entering Ireland must fill out a Passenger Locator Form (PLF) before departure for Ireland. As of December 5, 2021, travelers are required to show a negative test for COVID-19.

Vaccinated or recovered travelers must be able to provide proof of a vaccination certificate approved by the Irish government and a negative antigen test taken no more than 48 hours before arrival or a negative RT-PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival.

Unvaccinated travelers are not permitted to take an antigen test and instead must provide a negative RT-PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival.

Only rapid antigen tests listed on the standard EU Rapid Antigen Test list will be accepted, and a health professional must carry out the test.

For a list of approved vaccines, a definition of proof of recovery, and testing exemptions, click here.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Travelers arriving from or who had transited through a scheduled State will be required to quarantine for 14 days at the address provided on the Passenger Locator Form. Diplomats and transport workers are excluded from this requirement.

Travelers may only leave the address for an emergency, leave Ireland, or take a COVID-19 RT-PCR test.

Post-Arrival RT-PCR Testing

All travelers arriving from or who had transited through a scheduled State will also be required to take a post-arrival RT-PCR test on day two and day eight of the quarantine.

Status of Government Service

The Irish authorities have resumed limited visa processing services in some locations. Applicants can still apply for a visa online but may not be able to complete the process by submitting their supporting documents to the Irish embassy or consulate. Applications started online can be completed whenever regular processing resumes. Certain high-priority cases will continue to be processed including emergency visas (e.g. for healthcare professionals, health researchers, and elderly care professionals), and visas for the immediate family members of Irish citizens, legal residents, and EU nationals practicing free movement in Ireland. The Visa Processing Centres that have reopened will process these applications as well as Long-stay D visa applications. Short-stay visas for non-essential travel are not being issued.

Some of the Visa Processing Centres that are open are those in Hong Kong, London, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Moscow, Chicago, New York, and Washington, DC, as well as the centers in China, Turkey, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. Many of the centers in India reopened on July 6, 2020. The Irish consulate in Manila has reopened as has the Irish Embassy in Singapore. Please check with the center, embassy, or consulate you wish to use for its status and service offerings. Note that some Visa Processing Centres have introduced new local process modifications primarily to address their application backlog.

The Burgh Quay Registration Office is scheduled to reopen fur Dublin-based applicants on May 10, 2021.

Strict social distancing measures are in place for all appointments taking place on, or after August 24, 2020, in Burgh Quay and registration offices nationwide.

The Garda Naturalisation, which processes registration applications for non-EEA nationals located outside of Dublin, reopened on August 24, 2020. Appointments that were due to take place between 9-21 August 2020 in these offices will be rescheduled.

Immigration permission renewals for Dublin residents, which have been processed online since 20 July 2020 at inisonline.jahs.ie, will continue to be accepted.

Employment permit applications are being processed as usual.

The Department of Justice and Equality has issued a set of FAQs on the impact of COVID-19 on immigration service delivery.

Concessions

As of May 20, 2021, visa applications will now be accepted for essential family reunification.

Applications are also being accepted by people who have been granted an employment permit and are traveling for essential business or employment purposes.

The requirement for new arrivals to register their residence permissions is waived, as most immigration offices are still closed.

The DBEI has introduced contingency arrangements to ensure that the Employment Permits system will continue to operate in all scenarios during the COVID-19 pandemic. The DBEI will be flexible in dealing with employment permit issues that arise for both employers and employees as a result of the pandemic.

Some of the highlights include:

• Issuance of an electronic version of employment permit together with a letter from the DBEI which can be presented to immigration officials until employment permit operations return to normal;
• DBEI acceptance of online new and renewal applications for the Trusted Partner scheme without the requirement to provide a hard copy of the application form within 10 days;
• A temporary waiver of the requirement to return the original or certified copy of the
  Employment Permit within four weeks of employment termination; and
• Permission for employment permit holders to work remotely from home in Ireland provided the employer submits a single notification to the DBEI indicating that its employees are doing so.

While Immigration Service Delivery offices are closed, first-time registration applicants for Irish Residence Permissions may use an email registration process. The process is available to non-EEA nationals currently in Ireland and to those planning to arrive in Ireland soon. Initial registration applicants should email their applications and all supporting documents to bqregofficeapplications@justice.ie. The process can be used for Stamp 1, Stamp 1A, Stamp 1G, Stamp 2, and Stamp 4 permissions. An approval letter confirming residency permission will be issued for approved applications. Applicants must appear in person at a registration office once offices have reopened. Appointments that were canceled due to office closures will be rescheduled automatically.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

The government of Israel will extend the restrictions for travelers entering Israel. Arrivals of all foreign nationals to Israel will not be permitted to enter the country beginning December 12, 2021, unless a foreign national has an exemption approval issued by the Exceptions Committee. Israeli citizens who are either fully vaccinated or have recovered from COVID-19 recently will be permitted to enter Israel. However, these individuals will be required to:

• Take a PCR test upon arrival in Israel
• Undergo a home isolation period
• Take a second PCR test on the third day after arrival. If the test result is negative, the individual can end the home isolation period. If the test result is positive or not taken on the third day of home isolation, the individual must complete the entire 14-day home isolation

Unvaccinated Israel citizens will be required to adhere to the aforementioned requirements, including taking a PCR test upon arrival in Israel. However, the second PCR test will be taken on day seven instead of day three. If a positive test is received or a test is not accepted on the seventh day of home isolation, the individual must complete the entire 14-day home isolation. For additional entrance information, click here.

The countries of South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Mozambique, and Eswatini to its red list of countries. Citizens of Israel who have been in these countries in the last 14 days before their return to Israel will be required to:

• Take a PCR test upon arrival
• Proceed to motel isolation until the test result is received
• After a negative result is received, the remainder of the isolation period is to be spent at home
• The isolation period will end if a second PCR test is taken on the seventh day of isolation and a negative test result is received

Vaccinated Travelers

Effective November 15, 2021, the Sputnik-V vaccine is an approved entrance vaccine. For additional information regarding approved vaccines, click here.

Effective August 1, 2021, the Ministry of Health declared that fully vaccinated visitors and business travelers will be allowed to enter Israel.

However, beginning August 11, 2021, all arrivals from “Highest Risk” countries will be required to isolate for a minimum of seven days, regardless of vaccination status.

Effective August 23, 2021, any new foreign national employee arriving in Israel and intending to stay for more than 45 days must provide a copy of their COVID-19 Vaccine Certificate. The Certificate must be presented upon their employer’s application submission for an entry permit into Israel (permission to board a flight).

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Israeli citizens who are either fully vaccinated or have recovered from COVID-19 recently will be permitted to enter Israel. However, these individuals will be required to:

• Take a PCR test upon arrival in Israel
• Undergo a home isolation period
• Take a second PCR test on the third day after arrival. If the test result is negative, the individual can end the home isolation period. If the test result is positive or not taken on the third day of home isolation, the individual must complete the entire 14-day home isolation

Unvaccinated Israel citizens will be required to adhere to the requirements mentioned above, including taking a PCR test upon arrival in Israel. However, the second PCR test will be taken on day seven instead of day three. If a positive test is received or a test is not accepted on the seventh day of home isolation, the individual must complete the entire 14-day home isolation. For additional entrance information, click here.

Concessions

All subcategories of work visas for experts (e.g., one-year visas and Hi-Tech 365 visas), as well as work visas that typically cannot be extended (i.e., the 90-day STEP visa, the 90-day Hi-Tech visa (HIT 90), and the 45-day SEA), also qualify for the extension. Employers of foreign nationals who plan to stay in Israel beyond the automatic extension period are advised to file an extension application as soon as possible.

The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has put in place an online questionnaire to answer all essential travel and quarantine questions travelers might have.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Effective November 27, 2021, the government of Italy restricted travel for all travelers who have been in the countries of South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Namibia, and Eswatini in the past 14 days. These entry restrictions do not apply to Italian citizens registered as residents in Italy before November 26, 2021.

The government of Italy has created a list of the COVID-19 risk level of each country and territory.

Travelers arriving from List A countries and territories have no limitation on entrance and are permitted free movement to and from the country of departure and Italy.

Travelers arriving from List B countries and territories are permitted free movement to and from the country of departure and Italy.

Travelers arriving from List C countries and territories are permitted free movement to and from the country of departure and Italy so long as the traveler has not stayed in or passed through one of the countries on List E in the 14 days before entering Italy.

Travelers arriving from List D countries and territories are permitted to enter Italy but must adhere to additional entrance testing and quarantine requirements.

Travelers arriving from List E countries and territories are only permitted to enter Italy for work, health reasons, study reasons, absolute urgency needs, and return to one’s domicile, home, or residence in Italy.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Travelers arriving from a List C country and who have remained in a List C country or territory for the past 14 days will be required to:

• Fill out the Digital Passenger Locator Form before entering Italy
• Provide the EU Digital Covid Certificate or other equivalent certification in one of the following languages: Italian, English, French, or Spanish, showing proof of one of the following conditions:
  • Having completed the prescribed anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination cycle, OR
  • Having recovered from COVID-19 (the certificate of recovery is valid for 180 days from the date of the first positive swab)
• Provide proof of a negative molecular test carried out within 48 hours before entering Italy or an antigenic test carried out within 24 hours before entering Italy

Travelers who cannot present a negative test result AND a vaccination certificate or recovery certificate will undergo a five-day quarantine.

Travelers arriving from a List D country and who have remained in a List C country or territory for the past 14 days will be required to:

• Fill out the Digital Passenger Locator Form before entering Italy
• Provide proof of a negative molecular test carried out within 72 hours before entering Italy, or an antigenic test carried out within 24 hours before entering Italy
  • Travelers entering from the UK, Northern Ireland, or the British Isles can submit a molecular test that was taken within 48 hours
• Provide the EU Digital Covid Certificate or other equivalent certification in one of the following languages: Italian, English, French, or Spanish, showing proof of one of the following conditions:
  • Having completed the prescribed anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination cycle, OR
  • Having recovered from COVID-19 (the certificate of recovery is valid for 180 days from the date of the first positive swab);

Travelers who cannot present a negative test result OR a vaccination certificate or certificate of recovery will have to undergo a five-day quarantine.

Travelers arriving from a List E country and who have remained in a List C country or territory for the past 14 days will be required to:

• Fill out the Digital Passenger Locator Form before entering Italy
• Provide proof of a negative molecular test carried out within 72 hours before entering Italy, or an antigenic test carried out within 24 hours before entering Italy
• Notify the department of health of entry and reach the final travel destination only via private transport
• Undergo a self-isolation period of ten days
• Undergo an antigenic test at the end of the ten-day self-isolation period

Status of Government Services

Effective January 1st, 2021, British citizens and their family members residing in Italy must apply for a residence permit in electronic format at the Police headquarters (Questura) having jurisdiction over their place of residency in Italy.

The document will be valid for 5 years (or 10 years if the applicant has acquired the right of permanent residence after 5 years of legal and continuous stay). To apply for the document, it is necessary to book an appointment with the relevant police office and submit the “Attestazione di iscrizione Anagrafica” previously obtained from the City Council of residency.

Most police departments and immigration offices in Italy are closed until further notice. The processing of immigration applications that require a personal appearance at such offices will be delayed.

Most Italian consulates abroad and Italian town halls have temporarily suspended in-person services. Please contact the relevant consulate or town hall directly to confirm their service offerings.

Concessions

The validity of residence permits (permessi di soggiorno) and nulla Osta (entry clearances for family reasons and work permits) has been extended to July 31th, 2021.

Identity documents that expired on or before January 31, 202, have been extended until September 30, 2021.

Foreign nationals who are in Italy as visitors, who cannot safely return to their home country, and whose authorized stay in Italy has expired or will soon expire can apply for an extension of their Schengen visa or stay, or can apply for a temporary residence permit for “calamity” reasons. This permit is valid for six months, can be extended for six months, and permits the holder to work.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Japan has suspended the entry of all foreign nationals who have stayed in 159 different countries and regions within the 14 days before the application for landing in Japan unless exceptional circumstances are found. For a complete list of these 159 countries and areas, click here.

Effective November 29, 2021, the government of Japan released a list of 159 countries and regions that are unsafe to travel from due to COVID-19 infection rates. All foreign nationals who have remained in any of these countries or regions in the last 14 days before traveling to Japan will be denied entrance. Limited exemptions apply.

Based on the above recommendation, the government of Japan has also suspended the entrance for foreign nationals entering Japan for business purposes beginning November 30, 2021.

Effective December 2, 2021, the government of Japan suspended visa validity for single and multiple entry visas for certain foreign nationals until December 31, 2021. For a complete list of those affected by the suspension, click here. The following individuals are unaffected by the suspension:

• Those with residence status as a spouse or child of a Japanese national
• A spouse or child of a permanent resident or diplomat

Effective November 8, 2021, a new system will allow business travelers to submit an application for Ministry pre-approval (AMPA) to qualify for reduced quarantine measures.

Before Arrival

In order to qualify for AMPA, the following documents will need to be provided by the Japanese entity sponsoring the business visa and submitted to the relevant ministry or federal agency:

• Proof of medical insurance while in Japan
• Sponsorship documents
• An approved ten-day activity plan
• A Written Pledge confirming the work activity plan

If approved, business travelers, holders of a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), and residents of Japan will then be required to apply for a temporary business visa with their local consulate office. Travelers who submit a copy of a valid vaccination certificate and AMPA approval upon arrival will be required to enter a self-isolated quarantine for three days. For a list of approved vaccines click here. After day three, travelers are required to be monitored for an additional four-14 days and the traveler must take a COVID-19 test at a designated facility and produce a negative result to begin the reduced quarantine measures. On day 14, the visa sponsoring entity is required to report a notice of the successful completion of the 14-day quarantine period to the relevant ministry of a federal agency.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

All travelers (including Japanese nationals) entering Japan from any of the countries on the entry ban list (first list) above will be subject to COVID-19 PCR testing on arrival.

All travelers (including Japanese nationals) arriving in Japan will be subject to quarantine for 14 days and must avoid using public transportation.

Concessions

Certificates of Eligibility (COE) issued between January 1, 2020, and July 31, 2021, are now valid until January 31, 2022.

COE issued between August 1, 2021, and January 31, 2022, will be valid for six months.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Kenya has reopened its borders to international travelers. All travelers must comply with specific entrance requirements. These requirements include:

• Receiving a negative PCR test before entering Kenya
• Completing a health certificate confirming the negative COVID-19 test result
• Complete the Travelers Health Surveillance Form
• Undergoing a 14 day quarantine period

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Kenyan citizens and residence permit holders must self-quarantine for 14 days after returning to Kenya.

Status of Government Services

Renewals: File the necessary renewal applications and pay the required renewal fee and the additional late renewal fee within thirty (30) days from February 15, 2021, the latest by March 14, 2021. Failure to file the renewal on time will result in the removal from the Register.

There will be limited immigration services until further notice.

The Director-General of Immigration asked those Foreign nationals whose documents will expire during the period of limited services to make arrangements to leave the country within 14 days. Alternatively, they are to apply for permits to regularize their status. Failure to depart from Kenya or regularize one’s stay will become a contravention of the Citizenship and Immigration Act (2011), which is an offense.

Concessions

Foreign nationals whose documents will expire during limited services can apply for extensions online by clicking here.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Effective November 16, 2021, travelers with COVID-19 vaccine certificates issued by the authorities of Georgia, Moldova, New Zealand, and Serbia will now be permitted to enter Luxembourg for non-essential travel purposes so long as they hold a valid vaccine certificate. For a list of other approved vaccine certificates issued in third countries, click here.

As of October 29, 2021, travelers originating from Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will now be allowed to enter Luxembourg for non-essential travel. For a complete list of countries with travelers eligible to enter Luxembourg, including for non-essential travel, click here.

Additionally, vaccine certificates issued in Armenia and the United Kingdom will also be considered equivalent to certificates issued in a Member State of the EU or Schengen Area. For a list of equivalent vaccination certificates, click here.

As of September 22, 2021, third-country nationals residing in Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Brunei Darussalam, Israel, Japan, Kosovo, Lebanon, Montenegro, the Republic of North Macedonia, Serbia, and the United States will no longer be able to enter Luxembourg for non-essential travel. Third-country nationals from Saudi Arabia, Australia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Canada, China, South Korea, Jordan, Republic of Moldova, New Zealand, Qatar, Singapore, Ukraine, and Uruguay who have received authorization from the government of Luxembourg will be eligible to enter the country for non-essential travel.

Health travel measures applying to people aged 12 years of age and above entering Luxembourg territory by air are extended until October 18, 2021, inclusive with the exception of provisions regarding persons who stayed in India in the 14-days preceding their arrival on Luxembourg territory.

As of September 15, 2021, persons traveling from India to Luxembourg will no longer be required to perform a PCR test on the 6th day of quarantine and will not be obligated to declare their presence to the Sanitary Inspectorate.

Luxembourg has banned most non-residents from entering. Allowed to enter are the family members of Luxembourg citizens and residents; nationals of EU/Schengen countries, the UK, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City and their family members; highly qualified workers, if their employment is economically necessary and the work cannot be postponed or performed abroad; residents of Algeria, Australia, Canada, China (subject to reciprocity), Georgia, Japan, Montenegro, Morocco, New Zealand, Rwanda, Serbia, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia and Uruguay; holders of temporary residence permits for employment or dependents; cross-border workers and those providing essential services; travelers transiting to another country; and others whose entry to the country is essential.

Travelers may encounter immigration checks at land border crossings.

Status of Government Services

Documents must be submitted to the Immigration Directorate by mail; in-person submission is no longer allowed.

The immigration authorities have resumed accepting and processing applications for work or residence permits for new, pending, and extension applications. Applicants should expect processing delays due to the application backlog.

Some consulates have reopened but the services provided vary. Please check with your local consulate for their status and service offerings.

Concessions

Foreign nationals with visas or temporary residence permits/cards that expired on or after March 1, 2020, as well as visa-waived nationals who have surpassed their maximum stay of 90 days in a 180-day period on or after March 1, will automatically be considered to be maintaining their status until further notice.

Effective June 1, 2021, Malaysia is once again under the Movement Control Order until daily cases fall below 4,000. This means the following conditions will be in effect:

• The ban on inter-state and inter-district travel remains, among other social restrictions. Immigration Unit office will be closed; all appointments during this period will be canceled; new appointments must be made after June 28
• Online applications can still be submitted
• Private sector companies will operate with 60% capacity at the office and 40% to work from home (WFH)
• Government offices will operate with 20% capacity at the office and 80% to work from home (WFH)
• Public transportation reduced to 50% capacity
• All business operations are limited between 8 am – 8 pm.

Effective July 3, 2021, through July 16, 2021, the states of Selangor and certain localities of Kuala Lumpur will be under an Enhanced Movement Control Order. All Immigration Departments (HQ and State) and their processing Agencies, i.e., MYXPats and eXpats at MDEC, will be closed during this period.

Impact on Immigration applications and processes

• All service counters will be closed, which means there will be NO submissions of any passports (i.e., no endorsements) or any manual applications like transfer, cancellation, etc.
• All appointments confirmed from July 1, 2021, onwards have been canceled and will either be automatically rescheduled, or you will need to apply for new appointments (advisable to apply for new slots)
• Online applications can still be submitted and will be processed as usual, but please expect some delays
• For any urgent cancellations that need to be done due to the expatriate’s departure, please email the respective Authorities with a confirmed flight ticket. They may provide a slot for this purpose.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

The Malaysian government announced that Long Term Pass holders will no longer be required to obtain approval to enter Malaysia beginning 1 Nov. 2021. To qualify, the traveler’s Pass must be valid at the time of entry. Categories that do not require approval are found here.

Categories that require approval will include:

• Social Visits
• Business Visits / Short Term Business Travelers
• Any existing Malaysian Long-Term Pass that has already expired
• Any new applications for Malaysian Long-Term Pass (where the Pass itself is not yet endorsed into the passport)

Effective September 20, 2021, the temporary ban on India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Nepal is lifted.

The following cannot enter Malaysia during the RMCO period: Foreign visitors (e.g., tourists, business visitors).

The following can enter Malaysia during the RMCO period: Malaysian citizens and Permanent Residence (PR) holders; the spouses and children of Malaysian citizens, as long as they are holding a valid Long Term Social Visit Pass and can present evidence of the relationship; foreign diplomats to return to their positions at the relevant Embassies / Consulates / High Commissions; the spouses and children of foreign diplomats if they hold a valid Dependent Pass; Pass holders; and foreign nationals providing essential services.

Long Term pass holders from India, Indonesia, and the Philippines will not be allowed to enter Malaysia. These include those holding permanent resident status, MM2H pass holders, expatriates, professional visit pass holders, spouses of Malaysian citizens, and students. The same restrictions may apply to other countries depending on Covid-19 spikes.

Qualifying travelers may enter Malaysia provided they obtain a Travel Notice from their nearest Malaysian consulate or embassy before departing. The request for a Travel Notice must be submitted by email (email addresses of the Malaysian missions can be found here) at least three days before departure for Malaysia. The application must include a Letter of Undertaking (LOU) certifying that the traveler will bear the costs of the mandatory quarantine at a government-designated facility (see next section for more information), a copy of the passport bio page, and the page with the Pass (if applicable), a copy of the flight booking, and any other documents deemed relevant. Once received, the traveler should print multiple copies of the Travel Notice, as it must be presented to the airline and upon arrival in Malaysia.

Holders of an Employment Pass Category I (EPI) and their dependents as well as holders of a Residence Pass-Talent (RP-T) and their dependents may generally enter without further approval, including those with an active pass who departed Malaysia before July 11, 2020, or who have been stranded abroad, and those with a newly approved pass. However, suppose they have an expired pass. In that case, they require prior approval from the Director-General of Malaysia’s Immigration Department in addition to the Travel Notice (see next paragraph for the process).

Expired pass holders should also apply for a new pass.

Other foreign nationals with valid passes (EP II holders and their dependents, as well as EP III, Professional Visit Pass (PVP), and Long Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP) holders) who wish to initially enter or re-enter Malaysia may do so provided they obtain an “Entry Approval Letter” from the Director-General of Malaysia’s Immigration Department in addition to the Travel Notice. The employer must first get a support letter from the Approving Agency for its industry (ESD, MDEC, or MIDA) and then email it to pbf@imi.gov.my with a request for entry approval for the foreign employee. If the request is approved, the Director-General of Immigration will issue an Entry Approval Letter within seven days. No response within that timeframe will constitute a denial of the request. The foreign employee (and any dependents) must present the letter at the port of entry. Please get in touch with your immigration professional for more information.

Transit through Kuala Lumpur International Airport is allowed as long as the traveler is not required to pass through the immigration checkpoint.

The following cannot exit Malaysia during the RMCO period: Malaysian citizens and PR holders, including citizens who hold work permits in Singapore and Thailand and commute daily by land.

The following can exit Malaysia during the RMCO period: Malaysian citizens and PR holders who have valid long-term authorization (work, residence, etc.) in a third country and who wish to travel to the third country may do so. They must present documentary evidence at the immigration checkpoint on departure. Also allowed to exit are Malaysian diplomats to return to their positions at the relevant Embassies / Consulates / High Commissions overseas and all other foreign nationals.

All pass holders who wish to exit and return to Malaysia must obtain Permission to Exit & Return from the Director-General of the Immigration Department. Once exited, they must return within 60 days. All who want to leave Malaysia permanently must cancel their Pass or obtain a Special Pass, as required.

Interstate travel in Malaysia is again allowed under the RMCO.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Effective October 18, 2021, the quarantine duration will be reduced as follows:

• Seven days for fully vaccinated individuals (must be after 14 days from 2nd dose)
• Ten days for non-vaccinated individuals

As of March 30, 2021, the Malaysian Ministry of Health has declared that based on specific risk assessment factors, fully vaccinated travelers can attempt to apply for exemption of quarantine at quarantine stations or permission to quarantine at their place of residence.

Applications can be sent via email to:

• pengecualicovid@moh.gov.my;
• hso@moh.gov.my;
• cprc@moh.gov.my

The MOH has not yet indicated the exact documents required for the application, but the minimum criteria to be eligible are:

• Travelers must have been fully vaccinated for at least two weeks upon arrival and must have documented vaccination (vaccination certification from the health department of the departing country).
• Travelers must come from a low-risk country (MOH has not yet indicated how this is determined).
• Travelers must show proof of a suitable residential place to quarantine (specifics of conditions/requirements have not yet been determined).
• Travelers must have proof of a negative RT-PCR Covid-19 Test no more than three days old from when the test was taken.

Applicants are advised to submit the following documents as part of their application:

• Proof of an official Vaccine CertificateAny documents/information showing they are traveling from a low-risk country
• Any documents/information showing they have a suitable residential place to quarantine
• Passport Bio page
• Flight ticket
• Any existing Pass or Approval Letters
• Any other supporting documents deemed necessary

Otherwise, all foreigners entering the country must pay for the cost of the Quarantine and Covid-19 test before traveling. This is mandatory. Payment must be made via the MySafe Travel website at https://safetravel.myeg.com.my.

As of May 24, 2021, travelers from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Nepal must quarantine for 21 days upon arrival.

All travelers from other will have to undergo a 14-day quarantine, not the previous 10-day quarantine. Travelers must also take the RT-PCR test no more than 72 hours before arrival.

All arriving travelers, including Malaysian citizens, must undergo health screening upon arrival, including a COVID-19 PCR test. All travelers will also be subject to quarantine for ten days at a facility designated by the government, except for EP I and RP-T holders and their dependents who are nationals of and arriving from a “green zone” country (currently Australia, Brunei, New Zealand, and Singapore), and PVP holders arriving for emergency work, which are exempt from the quarantine requirement. All travelers subject to quarantine must sign a Letter of Undertaking and Indemnity (LOU) to guarantee that they will pay quarantine costs (at a maximum rate of RM150 per day per person). The LOU must be presented upon arrival. No domestic transits are allowed until the 14-day quarantine is completed.

All travelers must also download the MySejahtera application (which allows the Ministry of Health to monitor their health) before arrival.

Foreign nationals who do not abide by the requirements of the RMCO may be arrested and have their passes canceled.

Foreign nationals with pending work permit applications who have entered Malaysia as social visitors should be sure not to engage in any form of employment until their work permit application has been approved. Suppose the approval comes while they are in Malaysia as a social visitor during or after the MCO. In that case, they must exit Malaysia and re-enter to obtain the endorsement when they are permitted to re-enter.

MDEC (Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation) has announced that certain holders of expired or soon-to-expire passes will need to apply for a Special Pass. The requirements and procedures differ slightly between the main eXpats’ Service Center in Cyberjaya and the eXpats Service Center Northern Branch in Penang. Companies are advised to prepare the Special Pass paperwork (where required) before making online appointments at expats.com.my. Please consult with your immigration professional for complete information.

All auto gates and e-gates used for immigration clearance at Malaysian airports remain closed until further notice.

Vaccinated Travelers

As of August 10, 2021, travelers who arrive in Malaysia with proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 are eligible to quarantine at home upon arrival and bypass the other quarantine requirements currently in place. It’s important to know that:

• The Home Quarantine is not automatic
• An application must be made in advance and approved by the Home Surveillance Order Risk Assessment Committee at the Ministry of Health
• It’s applicable to all Malaysians and foreign nationals
• Application results will be sent via email
• If you arrive in Malaysia before receiving approval for home quarantine, you will have to undergo the hotel quarantine requirements

Status of Government Services

Destination Services Program will be resumed from March 7, 2021.

Appointments are required for counter transactions for all divisions except the Security & Passport Division. All appointments for immigration counter services (except at the Visa, Pass & Permit Division, and ESD) must be made online at www.sto.imi.gov.my.

Appointments for all transactions related to passes must be made through the ESD online portal at https://esd.imi.gov.my. Appointments for Resident Pass-Talent (RP-T) holders must be made through the RP-T portal at https://rpt.talentcorp.com.my. Those attending appointments must comply with strict safety and social distancing requirements. For more information on making and attending ESD or RP-T appointments, including a detailed FAQ document, read this letter on the ESD website.

Online appointments can now be made for MDEC, which processes applications under eXpats for IT companies, for counter visits. This is applicable for all expatriate/dependent applications for IT companies. All appointments must be made online at https://expats.com.my/contact or https://www.mtep.my for MTEP (Malaysia Tech Entrepreneur Program). The hours of operation are Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm except for 1.00 pm to 1.30 pm. Monday through Thursday and 12:15 pm to 2:45 pm Friday when the office is closed. MDEC has issued a set of FAQs for more information.

Walk-ins to the Immigration Department and related authorities are prohibited.
Appointments must be made for submissions, collections, and any other transactions.
The Malaysia Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and its Immigration Unit have reopened.

Renewal applications and Work Permit applications for change in employers/change of position can be submitted for applicants currently in Malaysia. New pass applications (EP, DP, PVP, etc.) are still on hold.

Concessions

Effective August 2 through December 31, 2021, holders of Employment Passes (EPs), Dependant Passes (DPs), and Long-Term Social Visit Passes (LTSVPs) that have expired during the Movement Contro Order will no longer need to apply for a Special Pass before endorsement of any new or renewal of Passes.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Mexico has not implemented any entry restrictions related to COVID-19; however, the US has banned all “non-essential” travel across its land border with Mexico.. “Non-essential” travel is considered travel for tourism or recreational purposes, including sightseeing, gambling and attending cultural events. While business travel is still permitted, business travelers may be subject to additional screening.

Status of Government Services

The National Immigration Institute has officially announced the reopening of its offices in Mexico City and Toluca as of February 15 2021. The terms for temporary and permanent resident’s processes are still suspended.

Regarding the Local Registry process (“Canje”), the immigration authorities in Toluca and Mexico City will admit and resolve all the processes until March 31, 2021, regardless the Immigration Multiple Form (FMM) has expired in the period of 18 December, 2020 to February 22, 2021.

Foreigners who have a pending resolution process traveling internationally must request an exit/entry permit. In case foreigners need to leave the country on the days that the National Immigration Institute will be closed, the exit/entry permits must be processed at the Airport. Where it may or may not be issued, this may be discretional. In case of not having an exit/entry permit, foreigners must do a final departure process. Which implies, the resignation of the immigration process and loss of the years of residence in Mexico.

The services of some Mexican embassies and consulates are suspended. The suspension may last longer in countries where government closures due to the pandemic remain in place. Applicants should check directly with the embassy or consulate they intend to use for its status and service offerings.

The INM and Ministry of Foreign Affairs are providing reduced services and processing delays should be expected.

Concessions

Deadlines have been suspended for all applications filed with the National Immigration Institute (INM) for temporary and permanent residence status holders.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

As of September 22, 2021, the Dutch government will no longer require fully vaccinated travelers from high-risk areas, such as the US and UK, to self-quarantine upon arrival.

As of January 23, 2021, Netherlands will ban flights and ferries from the United Kingdom, and passenger flights from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Cabo Verde, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, South Africa, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela. The flight ban is expected to be in force for one month or until planned legislation on mandatory quarantine rules for travelers is in place.

The following are allowed to enter the Netherlands:

• EU/Schengen nationals and their family members
• Residents of Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City
• Third-country (non-EU) nationals holding a Dutch residence card or residence permit
  Holders of a long-stay visa (MVV)
• EU Blue Cards or EU ICT permits and other Dutch permit holders traveling from any country
• Third-country nationals with a right of residence in another EU member state
• Travelers transiting through the Netherlands
• Travelers providing an essential service (e.g., healthcare workers, cross-border workers, transporters of essential goods, diplomats, employees of humanitarian organizations, etc.)
• Residents of Algeria, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, Montenegro, Morocco, New Zealand, Rwanda, Serbia, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia, Uruguay, and China (China is included only if China reciprocally admits EU residents)

Travelers may encounter immigration checks at land border crossings.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Beginning September 22, 2021, fully vaccinated travelers from the United Kingdom and the United States will no longer have to self-quarantine upon arrival.

Non-EU nationals who are eligible to enter the Netherlands may be subject to a 14-day quarantine upon entry.

Holders of short-term work permits must notify the Labor Authority (UWV) if they do not work for four weeks, even if because of travel restrictions.

Employers whose new foreign national workers will not enter the Netherlands, and employers whose foreign workers’ pay has been reduced to below the required level, must inform the Immigration Authority within four weeks.

Status of Government Services

The Immigration Authority (IND) is still providing reduced services but has resumed offering limited in-person desk services.

Some Dutch embassies and consulates have reopened and are processing MVVs for certain categories of applicants. Provided the embassy or consulate is open and allowing applicants to enter, the following categories of applicants can (re)schedule an appointment to obtain an MVV:

• Family members of Dutch citizens with an MVV approval for the purpose of stay “family”
• Those with an expired MVV sticker in their passport because they were not able to travel within the 90-day validity period due to COVID-19 restrictions
• Those whose application for a regular MVV was approved by the IND and who had an appointment at the embassy/consulate to collect their MVV sticker but whose appointment was canceled due to COVID-19 restrictions

The Municipal Public Health Service (GGD) in Amsterdam has postponed all appointments until further notice.

Some town halls may be providing urgent services only and some Expat centers are closed.

Concessions

Employers do not need to inform the IND if their foreign national employees are working from home.

Foreign nationals who are unable to enter the Netherlands during their MVV validity period may request that the IND issue a new visa when the processing of MVV’s resumes. Consular posts may extend the pick-up deadline for foreign nationals who are unable to pick up their MVV within three months of approval.

Foreign nationals who cannot collect their MVV within three months of the notice of approval due to consulate closures can make a new appointment once the consulates reopen. If the appointment does not occur within 180 days of the notice of approval, the MVV will still be issued on the basis of the initial notice of approval.

Foreign nationals who have a work permit approval letter but cannot obtain the required endorsement sticker or biometric residence card may be able to work on the basis of their approval letter alone.

Foreign national visitors in the Netherlands who are unable to return to their country of citizenship or residence and who hold Schengen visas that have expired or will expire within a month may be eligible for an extension of stay. Such foreign nationals should call the Immigration and Naturalization Service information line (088 04 30430) for assistance. Visa-waived visitors are not eligible for extensions beyond their Schengen stay limit (90 days in a 180-day period) but the immigration service has stated it will be less strict in dealing with such individuals who overstay if they genuinely are unable to leave the Netherlands. Such visitors should keep evidence of their inability to leave the country for presentation on departure. Entry bans of one to two years may be imposed if the border officials deem that the overstay is not excusable.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

On November 8, 2021, the New Zealand government introduced a one-way quarantine travel route for travelers from the Pacific Islands of Samoa, Tokelau, Tonga, and Vanuatu.

Eligible travelers will include:

• New Zealand citizens and residents
• Australian citizens or permanent residents
• Travelers who have a border exemption
• Travelers who are exempt from the border restrictions

In order to travel from these four Pacific Islands, travelers must:

• Fly directly from Samoa, Tokelau, Tonga, or Vanuatu to New Zealand
• Have remained in the country of origin for at least 14 days before traveling to New Zealand. Travelers from Tokelau are also permitted to have spent the 14 days in Tokelau, Samoa, or New Zealand

The health requirements for quarantine-free travel include:

• Meeting vaccination requirements
• Completing Nau Ma Rā
• Have not been in contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 in the past 14 days
• Do not have COVID-19 symptoms
• Are not waiting for a COVID-19 test result

Click here for additional information concerning vaccination requirements.

Effective November 1, 2021, all foreign nationals entering New Zealand will be required to be fully vaccinated. This requirement will apply to all air travelers 17 years of age or older and who are not New Zealand citizens. Travelers will be required to declare their vaccination status when registering with the Managed Isolation Allocation System, as well as presenting proof of vaccination or a relevant exemption to their airline and to Customs officers once they land. For a list of approved vaccines click here. All travelers entering New Zealand will also be required to complete 14 days in Managed Isolation and Quarantine, and all travelers except those from exempt locations will still need to have evidence of a negative COVID-19 test result from an accredited laboratory within 72 hours of their first scheduled international flight.

New Zealand has closed its borders to all travelers except New Zealand citizens and residents. Exceptions may be made for other travelers (e.g., family members of New Zealand residents or citizens, those providing essential healthcare or other essential services, Australian citizens and permanent residents who normally live in New Zealand, diplomats, and “other essential workers”) who can apply for an exception on the Immigration New Zealand (INZ) website. Note that it may be difficult to obtain an exception.

The exception for other essential workers may be available to workers on short assignments of less than six months or longer assignments. For short assignments, the assignment must be time-critical, and the worker must have a unique skill that is not available in New Zealand or must be engaged in a major event or infrastructure project, a government-sanctioned program, or another activity that significantly benefits the economy. For longer assignments, the worker must meet one of the two short-term assignment criteria and must either earn double the median salary (~NZD 106,000) or be filling a position that is necessary for the delivery of a government-supported program or event, or another project of major significance to New Zealand.

As of October 2020, Partners and dependents of New Zealand residents or citizens, who hold an Australian passport, or a Visa waiver country will be eligible for a border exception. Temporary Work Visa Holders normally resident in New Zealand that has departed on or after December 01, 2019, have lived in NZ for at least 2 years, and are returning to the same job or continue to run a business as part of their entrepreneur work visa will be eligible for a border exception. (This option does not apply for individuals who have resigned or were made redundant.) Applicants must hold either a work to residence or essential skills visa (mid-skilled or higher) which will not expire before January 1, 2021. If the essential skills work visa is expiring before the end of 2020, the visa holder must have applied for a new visa to remain in the same job when they left, and before August 09, 2020.

Transit through New Zealand is prohibited except for Australian citizens or residents and their immediate family members with a final destination of Australia, and New Zealand citizens or residents and their immediate family members who usually reside in Australia.

As of April 8, 2021, the New Zealand government has temporarily banned all travel from India into the country. This ban will remain in place until April 28, 2021.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Beginning November 14, 2021, Managed Isolation Quarantine time will be reduced to seven days for fully vaccinated travelers. After the seven days, the traveler will be required to complete home isolation until the return of a negative day nine COVID test. All arrivals will be tested on days zero to one, day three, days six and seven, and will have to remain in home isolation for around three days. A rapid antigen test and health checks will be carried out on day seven before a person leaves MIQ, and people will get a PCR test on day nine of their home isolation and stay at home until a negative result is presented.

Anyone who is admitted to New Zealand is subject to isolation for 14 days after arrival; however, they will not be allowed to complete their isolation period at home. Arrivals assessed to be high-risk for COVID-19 will be placed in quarantine facilities, while all other arrivals will be placed in managed isolation facilities.

The validity period of low-paid essential skills work visas will be reduced from 12 months to six months for applications received on or after July 10, 2020, and for the following 18 months.

Status of Government Services

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has suspended the processing of most offshore visa applications until May 2021. Applications can still be submitted through the INZ online portal to secure a place when processing resumes.

Application types that will not be impacted by the above include Individuals that have been granted one of the limited exceptions to the border closer; Relationship-based visas for dependents of NZ citizens or residents; Visas for diplomats, consular and official staff and their dependents; Antarctica work traveler visitor visas; and Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) limited visas.

INZ has resumed processing residence and temporary entry visa applications for foreign nationals already in New Zealand. Specifically, for residence visas, first priority will be given to those in New Zealand with a job offer who earn at least twice the median hourly wage (currently NZD 51/hour) and who hold a current occupational registration, where this is required. For temporary entry visas, first priority will be given to applications for essential work to support the government’s response to COVID-19; applications involving an urgent humanitarian need; applications for travel under the APEC travel program; diplomatic visa applications; and all other temporary entry visa applications for applicants already in the country.

Concessions

Visitor visas have been extended by two months from the expiry date for those who were in New Zealand on 19 February 2021, and Hold a temporary general visitor visa that expires between 19 February 2021 and 31 March 2021. The extension is automatic. There is no application form or fee. COVID-19 short-term visitor visas will not be extended. Updated expiration dates can be found on the Visa Verification Service website, after March 05, 2021. Those who wish to remain in New Zealand for longer will need to apply for another visa before the current visa expires.

Temporary visa holders, <with the exemption of Critical purpose visa holders; Guardians of students; and partners or dependents linked to a work visa holder whose visa was previously extended>, whose visas expired between September 4 and the end of October 2020 will be granted an automatic visa extension by five months. All such visa holders will receive an extension email. Temporary workers whose visas expire between January 2021 to 30 June 2021 will have their visas automatically extended by six months. This includes: Essential skills work visa; Work to residence visa; Special and Skilled work visas for China, Indonesia, South Korea, Philippines, and Vietnam; Special category work visas for Japanese Interpreters and Thai Chefs; Employer-specific work visas granted under section 61 of the Immigration Act 2009; Fishing crew visa; Religious worker visa; Silver Fern practical experience visa. Partners and dependent children of eligible work visa holders will also have their visas extended.

There will be a delay in the stand-down period for low-skilled workers who hold essential skills work visas. This means that lower-skilled foreign workers who were subject to a stand-down period between August and December 31, 2020, are now able to stay in NZ for six months beyond the time their stand-down would have taken effect.

The government has relaxed rules for certain foreign nationals providing essential services. For as long as New Zealand remains at lockdown level 3 or 4 and for six weeks after the lockdown period ends, temporary visa holders providing essential services may change their hours or fill other positions at their worksites, and students working in essential services may work more than 20 hours per week as long as they maintain their studies.

Applicants in the Skilled Migrant (SMC) and Investor 2 residence categories who were invited to apply between November 1, 2019, and April 15, 2020, now have 10 months from the date they were invited to apply to submit their applications, up from the usual four months.

Applicants who received a Request for Information now have a total of 10 business days to respond.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Beginning November 26, 2021, the government of Norway will allow eligible foreign nationals with a valid residence permit or visitor visa and visa-exempt nationals to enter Norway. Travelers who cannot present proof of an approved COVID-19 vaccination certificate will be required to:

• Complete an entry registration form
• Present a negative PCR test which is taken 24 hours before travel
• Test at the border upon arrival
• Quarantine in a quarantine hotel

The application schemes for the Norwegian Maritime Directorate and the Norwegian Directorate of Agriculture will be discontinued.

Beginning November 17, 2021, the government of Norway will accept COVID-19 vaccination certificates issued in Serbia, New Zealand, Georgia, and Moldova.

Beginning November 15, 2021, the Norwegian government updated its country, region, and territory classification for travelers required to quarantine upon entrance into Norway. Now, travelers arriving from red, dark red, purple, and grey countries will not be required to quarantine if they hold a valid, verifiable COVID-19 vaccination certificate. The quarantine period may also be shortened for travelers who present a negative PCR test result taken no sooner than three days after arrival. For a list of country color classifications, click here.

As of September 8, the Norwegian government has ordered that the country remains at Step Three of the country’s reopening plan. The government will reconsider once more individuals have been vaccinated.

Several more vaccines have been approved:

People who have been vaccinated with vaccines approved in the United Kingdom, the United States, and by the WHO receive the same relief in entry quarantine as people vaccinated with EMA-approved vaccines. However, in order to be allowed entry to Norway, at this stage, individuals will need to have an EU digital COVID Vaccination Certification or NHS digital Covid Vaccination Certificate. Scotland has been added to the NHS digital Covid Vaccination Certificate as of September 3, 2021, at 17:00h.

Those who are fully vaccinated with an approved Vaccination Certificate connected to the EU solution from North Macedonia, Turkey, and Ukraine are now allowed to travel to Norway.

As of September 7, 2021, Norway accepts COVID-19 certificates from countries that are approved in the EU digital COVID certificate scheme. A list of these countries can be found here.

COVID-19 certificates from other countries outside the EU/EEA and Schengen Area are not accepted as documentation.

If you live in a country outside the EU/EEA or Schengen Area but have a valid EU/EEA/Schengen COVID-19 certificate proving that you have been fully vaccinated or have recovered from COVID-19 during the last six months, you can use this to travel to Norway.

List of NON-EU countries where Norway accepts the Vaccination certificates from Iceland, Liechtenstein, North Macedonia, San Marino, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, and Vatican City.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Effective November 1, 2021, travelers arriving from the countries of Greenland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, and Denmark’s region of Zealand will be subject to travel quarantine restrictions. These countries were previously listed as orange countries according to Norway’s travel list, but have now been marked as red areas. For entry quarantine, travelers must undergo a 10-day quarantine after entering Norway. In some cases, the quarantine period may be shortened if a negative PCR test taken no earlier than three days after arrival is presented. For more information concerning quarantine locations and more, click here.

Beginning September 25, 2021, the Norwegian government will begin easing lockdown restrictions and reopening the country. This process will be done in three phases. The first phase of reopening will commence on September 25, 2021, at 16:00 CET and will allow for all EEA citizens, including persons who are residents in the EEA, to enter Norway. This will also apply to citizens who are living in the United Kingdom or Switzerland. Entry quarantine requirements will continue to apply for travelers arriving from red, dark red, purple, and gray countries, as specified by the Norwegian government. All fully vaccinated persons with valid documentation are released from quarantine and testing. This is only applicable for vaccination certificates that are verifiable in Norway. These are EU/NHS/third countries.

People who have been to areas with a high rate of infection must stay at a quarantine hotel, regardless of the purpose of the trip. Exemptions from the entry restrictions are introduced for foreign nationals who reside in areas that are not subject to the duty to quarantine in Norway.

The following groups must stay at a quarantine hotel from Thursday 27 May 2021:

• In principle, people who have traveled outside Europe must stay at a quarantine hotel for the entire quarantine period until a negative test result is produced after no less than 7 days.
• Travelers from European countries that have less than 150 new cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 people in the last 14 days and where no more than 4 percent of people tested have a positive test result, do not have to stay at a quarantine hotel. They must complete quarantine at home or at another suitable place of quarantine.
• Travelers from the UK and countries in the EEA/Schengen area with more than 150 new cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 people must stay at a quarantine hotel until they have a negative result from a test taken no sooner than 3 days after arrival. They must complete quarantine at home or at another suitable place of quarantine and can end quarantine early following a negative test taken no sooner than 7 days after arrival.
• Travelers from European countries with a very high rate of infection must stay at a quarantine hotel until they have a negative result from a test taken no sooner than 7 days after arrival. There will be more information about this group later.

Exemptions on compelling compassionate grounds will stay in effect. The Norwegian Government will introduce a dispensation program for this group which will allow them to apply for exemption from the duty to stay at a quarantine hotel and receive the decision before they arrive at the border.

Exemptions will also be made for maritime personnel who have been to countries outside the EEA/Schengen area and the UK who are meant to sign on in Norway. Maritime personnel must still stay at a quarantine hotel after returning to Norway but can complete the quarantine on board the ship before signing on for service.

These changes will enter into effect on May 21, 2021.

Status of Government Services

Immigration offices at local police stations have reopened but are only providing limited services. Some have begun accepting appointments.

Service Centers for Foreign Workers (SUAs) have reopened.

Norwegian consulates are beginning to reopen.

Concessions

Those in Norway with a work permit that has not been activated can work as long as they have scheduled a permit activation appointment with the police.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

The government of Peru announced that it would extend the current state of national emergency until November 30, 2021, to prevent the spread of COVID-19. In addition, the entry of non-resident foreign nationals from South Africa will be suspended until November 14, 2021.

As of July 29, 2021, non-resident foreign national travelers from Brazil, South Africa, and India will not be permitted to enter Peru until August 22, 2021. Nationals and permanent residents of Peru traveling from these countries will be permitted entry to Peru but must undergo the mandatory 14-day quarantine.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

All travelers entering Peru will be subject to a 14-day quarantine in accommodation designated by the government. Travelers must have proof of a negative PCR or antigen test upon arrival.

Status of Government Services

Consular visa applications are not being processed.

On June 3, 2020, the National Superintendence of Immigration will begin processing applications already in its queue and will introduce online systems for the filing of various applications.

Concessions

On August 6, 2021, the Peruvian government announced a new resolution that will repeal many key immigration provisions.

Extensions of temporary and resident immigration statuses that have been granted since March of 2020 will now only be extended until the new resolution is enacted. Those who have not been granted an extension of status and have received an exit order have 15 days from the 10th day after the publication of the new resolution to leave the country. Those who overstay could face fines and other penalties.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Effective November 1, 2021, the following countries/jurisdictions/territories list have been updated:

Green List: Algeria, American Samoa, Bhutan, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, China (mainland), Comoros, Cook Islands, Eritrea, Falkland Islands (Malvinas), Hong Kong (Special Administrative Region of China), Kiribati, Madagascar, Mali, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Montserrat, Nauru, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Niger, Niue, North Korea, Northern Mariana Islands, Palau, Poland, Saba (Special Municipality of the Kingdom of the Netherlands), Saint Helena, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, Samoa, Sierra Leone, Sint Eustatius, Solomon Islands, Sudan, Syria, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Tokelau, Tonga, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Tonga, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, and Yemen

Red List: Latvia

All countries/territories/jurisdictions not otherwise listed are on the Yellow List.

As of September 18, 2021, the countries of Grenada, Slovenia, Papua New Guinea, and Serbia have been added as Red List countries.

The Bureau of Immigration also reiterated that all arriving passengers should follow the health and quarantine protocols set under the IATF Resolution.

All passengers, whether Filipino or foreigners, merely transitioning through any of these countries shall not be deemed as having come from or having been to said country, provided that they stay in the airport for the entirety of their transit through the country, and were not cleared for entry into such country by its immigration authorities.

Filipino citizens, including those with an Identification Certificate, are allowed to enter the country but are required to undergo a mandatory facility-based quarantine for 14 days.

Arriving foreign tourists is not yet allowed unless authorized by the Department of Foreign Affairs through the country’s foreign posts abroad and they will need to present their entry visas and entry exemption documents to immigration upon arrival. The BI also reminded the public that despite prior approval by the foreign posts, arriving aliens would still undergo regular immigration inspection and are still required outbound tickets, as well as documentary proof of their purpose in the country.

The following foreign nationals are allowed to enter the Philippines: Those with valid and existing visas at the time of entry, and who were not permitted to enter the country under previous IATF resolutions; Holders of valid and existing Special Resident Retirees Visa (SRRV) and Section 9(A) visas, provided they present an entry exemption document to the Bureau of Immigration upon arrival.

Immigrants must present a valid Re-entry Permit or validly extended Re-entry Permit unless otherwise exempted. Failure to present a valid Re-entry Permit or validly extended Re-entry Permit shall be a ground for exclusion and the Immigrant shall board the next available flight.

Non-Immigrants must present a valid Special Return Certificate or validly extended Special Return Certificate unless otherwise exempted. Failure to present a valid Special Return Certificate or validly extended Special Return Certificate shall be a ground for exclusion and the Non-Immigrant shall board the next available flight.

All foreign nationals (except for Section 9(e) visa holders shall present a pre-booked accommodation for at least six (6) nights in an accredited quarantine hotel/facility at the immigration counter for the initial check. Those who fail to present a pre-booked accommodation shall be denied entry and shall be boarded immediately in the next available flight.

As of August 12, 2021, foreign nationals or permanent residents of the Philippines whose ACR-I Cards are expired may still enter the country if they hold a valid reentry permit. Foreign nationals can renew expired re-entry permits and/or special return certificates at the airport before immigration clearance.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is considering requests for exemption from the travel ban for foreign nationals. An exemption should only be requested for “essential and emergency reasons.” For Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) registered companies, endorsement from PEZA will be required to request an exemption. Once PEZA has granted its endorsement, DFA processing will take about one week. PEZA Travel Pass shall be for single-use and valid only for thirty (30) days from the date of its issuance.

The Department of Trade and Industry – Board of Investments (DTI-BOI) may also endorse travel exemption requests to the DFA on a case-by-case basis for companies whose activities are considered critical or essential operations in manufacturing or export activities. Other government agencies may also endorse travel exemption requests to the DFA.

Departures: All departing foreign nationals who are issued visas pursuant to the DOJ, the BI, the BOI, PRA, PEZA, CEZA, SBMA, CDC, AFAB, and APECO, are required to secure a Travel Pass from the same agency which issued their visas. The Travel Pass shall be presented, in printed or electronic form, to the immigration counters as part of the documentary requirements upon departure. Exempt from this are those holding Emigration Clearance Certificates (ECC) from the BI and Holders of 9(a) visas issued by the DFA. Foreign nationals who fail to present their duly issued Travel Pass shall not be permitted to depart unless confirmed by the focal persons of the visa-issuing agencies.

All holders of 47(a)(2) visas issued by the Department of Justice (DOJ), except those whose visa applications have been endorsed and certified by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and the Board of Investments (BOI), are required to secure a Travel Pass prior to their departure from the Philippines. Letter requests for the issuance of a Travel Pass shall be filed with the Department of Justice, or via electronic mail (email) at dojlegal47a2@gmail.com at least seven (7) days prior to departure. Except for emergency cases, applications submitted beyond the reglementary period shall not be processed. The latest DOJ endorsement granting the visa must be appended to the letter request.

All Subic-Clark Visa Holders departing the Philippines are required to secure a Travel Pass. Apply for the Travel Pass at least Five (5) Working Days before the intended travel date.

Vaccinated Travelers

The Philippine government announced new protocols for a green list and yellow list countries, territories, and jurisdictions in all ports of entry that will go into effect on October 8, 2021. Under these new protocols fully vaccinated travelers arriving from green or yellow list areas will be required to:

• Undergo a government facility-based quarantine until a negative RT-PCR test is received on day 5 of the quarantine
• After the fifth day of the quarantine, a 10-day home quarantine must be completed, with the day of arrival in the country being the first day of the quarantine
• Foreign nationals should ensure that housing accommodations are booked for at least 6 days before entering the Philippines

Unvaccinated travelers, including partially vaccinated individuals or travelers unable to produce a vaccination certificate that is verified by the Philippine authorities, arriving from a green or yellow list area are required to:

• Undergo a government facility-based quarantine until a negative PT-PCR test is received on day 7 of the quarantine
• After the seventh day of the quarantine, a 14-day home quarantine must be completed, with the day of arrival in the country being the first day of the quarantine
• Foreign nationals should ensure that housing accommodations are booked for at least 8 days before entering the Philippines

As of June 22, 2021, the Filipino government has revised arrival protocols for fully vaccinated individuals who have been vaccinated in the Philippines and travel restrictions, as follows:

• An individual shall be considered as having been fully vaccinated for COVID-19:
  • ≥ 2 weeks after having received the second dose in a 2-dose series, or
  • ≥ 2 weeks after having received a single-dose type of vaccine.
  • Vaccines administered to the individual are included either in the Philippine Food and Drug Administration Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) List or through a Compassionate Special Permit (CSP).
• A fully vaccinated individual must carry his or her vaccination card which must be verified prior to the departure from the country of origin prior to boarding, and a certification issued prior to his/her departure by (i) the Department of Information and Communications Technology, or (ii) the City Health Officer of the local government unit which administered the last dose necessary for full vaccination. This certification must be presented to the dedicated Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ) representative for re-verification at the Department of Transportation One-Stop-Shop (OSS) upon arrival in the Philippines;

Please note that the revised arrival protocols do not apply to Filipinos or foreign nationals who got vaccinated in another country.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

On September 30, 2021, the Philippine government announced that the pilot implementation of the country’s Alert Levels System will be extended and the National Capital Region (NCR) will remain under Alert Level 4 until October 15, 2021. Amendments have been made to the Alert Levels System, particularly for areas under Alert Level 4. These new amendments include the following:

• Increase allowable indoor capacities by 10 percent for dine-in services, religious gatherings, certain personal care services
• Community health workers will face less strict restrictions on movement in areas of lockdown if their institutions are not able to provide other accommodations
• Establishments allowed to operate under the Alert Level 4 which have been awarded the Safety Seal Certification shall be allowed additional venue capacity of ten percentage points beyond their prescribed venue/seating capacity

Any passenger that arrived in the Philippines before September 12, 2021, who entered the country after leaving from a Red List country (Azerbaijan, Guadeloupe, Guam, Israel, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Saint Lucia, and Switzerland) is required to undergo a 14-day quarantine period. The first (10) days of which shall be at a quarantine facility, with the remainder to be completed under home quarantine in their respective local government units of destination. Rapid Test PCR testing shall be conducted on the seventh day with day 1 being the day of arrival. Notwithstanding, a negative test result, the arriving passenger shall complete the facility-based quarantine period of 10 days.

The Philippine Government has approved the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) Resolution No. 134 dated 19 August 2021 which, among others, indicated the updated risk-level classifications of certain areas of the country and other guidelines, as follows:

• The risk-level classification of the National Capital Region and the province of Laguna shall be Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) beginning 21 August 2021 until 31 August 2021, without prejudice to the imposition of localized Enhanced Community Quarantine in critical areas. Likewise, the province of Bataan shall be under MECQ beginning 23 August 2021 until 31 August 2021, without prejudice to the imposition of localized Enhanced Community Quarantine in critical areas.
• The local government units of the abovementioned areas are directed to improve their vaccination rates, their Prevent-Detect-Isolate-Treat-Reintegrate (PDITR) strategies, and their observance and compliance to Minimum Public Health Standards (MPHS). During this period, the following guidelines shall be observed in the abovementioned areas:
  • Indoor and alfresco dine-in services, and personal care services including beauty salons, beauty parlors, barbershops, and nail spas shall not be allowed
  • Pastors, priests, rabbis, imams, or other religious ministers and their assistants may conduct religious services performed through online video recording and transmission, necrological services, wakes, inurnment, and funerals, and they shall be allowed to move for such purposes. Corollary, immediate family members of the deceased who died of causes other than COVID-19 shall be allowed to move from their residences to attend the wake or interment of the deceased upon satisfactory proof of their relationship with the latter, fully complying with the prescribed minimum public health standards for the duration of the activity
  • Other provisions of the Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines, as amended, not affected by the foreign shall continue to be in effect

In addition, subject to the abovementioned provisions of IATF Resolution No. 131-A, areas under MECQ shall also observe the protocols under the Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines updated as of 19 August 2021 (Omnibus Guidelines), some of which are enumerated below:

• The movement of all persons shall be limited to accessing goods and services from permitted establishments, for work in such establishments, or for such other services allowed in this section.
• Any person below eighteen (18) years old, those who are over sixty-five (65) years of age, those with immunodeficiency, comorbidity, or other health risks, and pregnant women shall be required to remain in their residences at all times, except for obtaining essential goods and services, or for work in industries and offices or such other activities permitted in Section 3 of the Omnibus Guidelines. Local government units may relax the minimum age range down to fifteen (15) years old, depending on the COVID-19 situation in their respective jurisdictions.
• All establishments, persons, or activities permitted to operate, work, or to be undertaken during Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) under Section 2(4) of the Omnibus Guidelines shall be allowed to operate at full on-site capacity.
• All establishments, persons, or activities not permitted to operate, work, or be undertaken during ECQ shall be allowed to operate at fifty percent (50%) on-site capacity while encouraging work-from-home and other flexible work arrangements, where applicable.
• Notwithstanding the foregoing, and without prejudice to the authority of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to issue a negative list of industries which shall remain prohibited even in areas under MECQ, the following establishments, persons, or activities shall not be permitted to operate, work, or be undertaken during MECQ:
  • Entertainment venues with live performers such as karaoke bars, bars, clubs, concert halls, theaters, and cinemas
  • Recreational venues such as internet cafes, billiard halls, amusement arcades, bowling alleys, and similar venues
  • Amusement parks or theme parks, fairs/peryas, kid amusement industries such as playgrounds, playroom, and kiddie rides
  • Outdoor sports courts or venues for contact sports, scrimmages, games, or activities
  • Indoor sports courts or venues, fitness studios, gyms, spas or other indoor leisure centers or facilities, and swimming pools
  • Casinos, horse racing, cockfighting and operation of cockpits, lottery and betting shops, and other gaming establishments except for the draws conducted by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office
  • Indoor visitor or tourist attractions, libraries, archives, museums, galleries, and cultural shows and exhibits
  • Outdoor tourist attractions
  • Venues for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions
  • Personal care services include beauty salons, beauty parlors, medical aesthetic clinics, cosmetic or derma clinics, make-up salons, nails spas, reflexology, aesthetics, wellness, and holistic centers, and other similar establishments; acupuncture and electrocautery establishments, and massage therapy including sports therapy establishments. It also includes establishments providing tanning services, body piercings, tattooing, and similar services. Home service for these activities are likewise not permitted
  • Indoor dine-in services of food preparation establishments such as commissaries, restaurants, and eateries
• Agencies and instrumentalities of the government shall be fully operational, with a skeleton workforce on-site and the remainder under alternative work arrangements as approved by the head of agency unless a greater on-site capacity is required in agencies providing health and emergency frontline services, laboratory and testing services, border control, or other critical services, in accordance with the relevant rules and regulations issued by the Civil Service Commission (CSC).
• Officials and employees of foreign diplomatic missions and international organizations accredited by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), whenever performing diplomatic functions and subject to the guidelines issued by the DFA, may operate with an on-site skeleton workforce.
• Gatherings outside of residences shall be prohibited. Gatherings at residences with any person outside of one’s immediate household shall likewise be prohibited. However, gatherings that are essential for the provision of health services, government services, or humanitarian activities authorized by the appropriate government agency or instrumentality shall be allowed.
• The movement of cargo/delivery vehicles, as well as vehicles used by public utility companies, shall be unhampered. Shuttle services of permitted establishments shall not be subject to an ID system but shall maintain compliance with minimum public health standards.
• Uniform curfew hours may be imposed by Local Government Units (LGUs), subject to the guidelines issued by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). Workers, cargo vehicles, public transportation, and operating hours of permitted establishments, however, shall not be restricted by such curfew.
• Note: Per confirmation by the Metro Manila Council, which involves all mayors of local governments in the National Capital Region (NCR), the Metro Manila-wide unified curfew hours of 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. will stay in effect until further notice.
• Any violation of the foregoing prohibitions shall constitute non-cooperation of the person or entities punishable under Section 9, par. (d) or (e), as the case may be, of Republic Act No. 11332, otherwise known as the Mandatory Reporting of Notifiable Diseases and Health Events of Public Health Concern Act, and its Implementing Rules and Regulations.

Considering agencies and instrumentalities of the government will be fully operational but with a skeleton workforce on-site and the remainder of their personnel under alternative work arrangements as approved by the head of the agency, we can still expect some delays in the processing of work permit/visa applications during the MECQ period. On our part, considering the record-breaking number of COVID-19 cases in the country in the past days and the projected high number of COVID-19 cases in September 2021, we will only be allowing limited personnel to report on-site to be able to continue serving the needs of our clients while ensuring the safety of our employees.

Status of Government Services

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has issued Advisory No. 4, Series of 2021, dated 14 May 2021 with the subject “Implementation of New and Revised Prescribed Forms on the Issuance and Regulation of Alien Employment Permits Pursuant to DO 221 S2021” relative to the effectivity of DOLE DO 221-21 and directed all DOLE Regional Offices (ROs) to utilize the following new and revised prescribed forms:

• Revised Alien Employment Permit (AEP) Application Form starting 6 May 2021;
• Revised Labor Market Test (LMT) Form to be utilized starting 15 May 2021, with the following information included:
  • Name and Address of establishment;
  • Name of foreign national;
  • Position, Qualification/s and Brief Description of the Function/s;
    Salary, and other benefits; and
  • Notice that any person in the Philippines, who is competent, able, and willing at the time of application, to perform the services for which the foreign national is desired, may file an objection at the DOLE-RO within thirty (30) days after publication.
• Establishment Report on Employed Foreign Workers to be submitted not later than thirty (30) calendar days after each quarter; and
• Notification of Change in Information for Establishment Employing Foreign Nationals which must be submitted within ten (10) working days after such change.

The DOLE Advisory also provided the following guidelines:

• DOLE ROs shall also advise their clients and stakeholders on the implementation of “publication of job vacancy” pursuant to Paragraph 1, Section 9, of DOLE DO 221-21, which shall contain the following:
  • Name of the Company;
  • Workplace
  • Address/Place of Assignment;
  • Position and quantity of workers needed; and
  • Brief Description of the Function/s and Qualification/s.
• Publication of vacancy/ies shall be made at least fifteen (15) calendar days prior to the application of AEP and shall be valid and effective within thirty (30) days from the date of publication in a newspaper of general circulation. No particulars are given to the minimum dimensions, but readability shall be observed.
• DOLE ROs shall ensure publication of the LMT in their respective official website pursuant to Paragraph 6, Section 9, of DOLE DO 221-21.

More sectors are allowed to reopen and the Bureau of Immigration (BI) has resumed full services but with safety protocols in place to protect its employees and customers from COVID-19. Specifically, those seeking in-person services from the BI main office in Intramuros, Manila are to follow the following process:

• Clients must schedule an appointment online via the BI website at www.immigration.gov.ph. An appointment code will be issued and only those with a code will be served.
• Clients must present an identification card together with their appointment code at the BI office.
• Clients will only be served at their appointment time–clients will not be permitted to enter the BI office without an appointment.
• Clients must wear a face mask and practice social distancing while in the BI office.

Supreme Court of the Philippines

The Supreme Court of the Republic of the Philippines, through the Office of the Court Administrator (OCA), issued OCA Circular No. 114-2021 dated 20 August 2021 addressed to all Justices of the Appellate Collegiate Courts of the Second and First Level Courts, Court Personnel Thereof, and Court Users as regards the Court Operations Starting 23 August 2021 with the following guidelines:

1. All courts in the NCR, except the Supreme Court, shall be PHYSICALLY CLOSED to court users for the duration of the MECQ. They shall continue to operate online and conduct videoconferencing hearings only for urgent incidents and cases, such as, but not limited to, applications for bail, releases due to dismissal of cases or acquittal, habeas corpus, applications for temporary protection orders for Violence Against Women and Children cases, and analogous circumstances. The said courts may be reached through their respective hotlines and email addresses as posted on the Supreme Court website.
2. The time for filing and service of pleadings and motions during this period is SUSPENDED and shall resume after seven (7) calendar days counted from the first day of the physical reopening of the relevant court.
3. The essential judicial offices in all courts shall maintain the necessary skeleton staff to attend to all URGENT matters and concerns.
4. The applicable provisions of Administrative Circular (AC) No. 56-2021 not inconsistent therewith shall continue to remain in force for all courts and judicial offices outside the NCR until further notice.

Department of Foreign Affairs

The Department of Foreign Affairs issued a Public Advisory dated 20 August 2021 on the Resumption of Operations of DFA’s NCR Consular Offices and TOPS Facilities During the MECQ (August 23 to 31, 2021) with the following guidelines:

• The DFA’s Consular Offices (COs) in the NCR area and all Temporary Off-Site Passport Services (TOPS) facilities will resume operations during the period of the MECQ from 23 August to 31 August 2021.
• For Applicants with appointments between 6 August and 20 August 2021:
  • Applicants must follow the new appointment schedule/location which they have received via email.
  • TOPS applicants who did not show up at their rescheduled appointment are advised NOT TO SHOW UP at their original TOPS locations, nor at any DFA CO, as YOU WILL NOT BE ENTERTAINED. Instead, concerned applicants are requested to send an email to the following addresses to request a new appointment schedule:
    • TOPS SM Aura – ncrcentral.so@dfa.gov.ph
    • TOPS SM North Edsa – ncreast.so@dfa.gov.ph
    • TOPS Robinsons Place Magnolia Place – ncrnorteast.so@dfa.gov.ph
    • TOPS Robinsons Place Las Pinas – ncrsouth.so@dfa.gov.ph
    • TOPS SM MOA – oca.concerns@dfa.gov.ph
• For Applicants with appointments between 23 August to 31 August 2021:
  • Applicants must follow their appointment schedule unless they receive specific advice not to do so (i.e., unforeseen closure of a specific CO/TOPS due to disinfection, mandatory quarantine, etc.).
  • WALK-IN APPLICANTS WILL NOT BE ENTERTAINED.
• For applicants with emergency and urgent medical travel needs:
  • Those with emergency and urgent medical travel needs may send an email request to cl@dfa.gov.ph with copies of their identification documents (current passport or if new applicant, a government-issued ID) and proof of their emergency travel.
  • Possession of a flight ticket in itself is not considered urgent.
• This plan of operations may be subject to revisions depending on future guidelines from the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases. The DFA will update its advisory, as necessary.
• The public is urged to regularly check the Office of Consular Affairs’ website https://consular.dfa.gov.ph for updates on the operations schedules, in relation to M/ECQ and other COVID-19 pandemic-related closures.
• The DFA requests the public’s understanding and cooperation as it continues to limit the number of applicants allowed inside its premises at any given time, and as it implements alternate working arrangements to reduce the risks for both applicants and personnel due to continuing COVID-19 concerns.

Concessions

Temporary visitor visa holders who have been in the Philippines for less than one year and who are departing the country are temporarily allowed to obtain their Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC) at an international airport. The BI will temporarily not require biometrics submission or issuance of a Special Security Registration Number (SSRN) for processing of an ECC, but will still check the local records of the ECC applicant to ensure he/she has no open case or obligation with the government.

Those with AEPs that expired while DOLE was not processing AEP applications will not be subject to fines or other penalties and such AEP holders may file renewal applications within 45 days after the GCQ is lifted. New AEP applicants whose employment contracts took effect during the suspension period or whose 15-day grace period already expired will also not be subject to penalties and may also file applications within 45 days after the GCQ is lifted. Note that DOLE NCR has resumed accepting AEP applications while DOLE Regional Office IV-A has not.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Effective September 9, 2021, Ukrainian citizens do not need entry approval to enter Poland from countries outside of the EU under COVID restrictions.

Exemption from entry approval for children:

Children under the age of 18, who meet the following requirements are also exempt from requiring entry approval: children under the care of foreign individuals holding “Karta Polaka”; children under the care of foreign individuals holding a permanent residence permit or a temporary residence permit in Poland (children do not have to hold a residence permit themselves – entry is possible on a visa or a visa-free movement); children under the care of a foreign individual entitled to work in Poland (i.e. work permit holders, foreigners exempt from work permit) who already legally work in Poland or who are able to document the possibility of taking up employment immediately after crossing the border. Adopted children, children under permanent care/guardianship (based on court decision) who meet one of the above qualifications are also exempt. It is not enough to travel under the temporary supervision of an adult listed above. Children have to enter on a visa or visa-free movement and must be able to confirm their family connection (based on the above criteria) and the status of the principal foreigner.

Children should carry the following documents to confirm their exemption from entry approval: a birth certificate or document confirming they are under permanent care of a given principal foreigner (such as a court order on guardianship); document confirming the status of the principal foreigner (such as a copy of their Work Permit and a copy of employment contract in Poland of principal).

Effective June 19, 2021, all US nationals traveling to Poland by air are exempt from the entry ban, regardless of the point of origin of travel and regardless of the purpose of entry.

Otherwise, Poland has implemented an international travel ban that will be in place until further notice.

Exempt from the ban are Polish citizens; spouses and children of Polish citizens; permanent or temporary residents of Poland; Pole Cardholders; foreign nationals permitted to work in Poland; EU/EEA, Swiss and UK nationals and their spouses and children; students; foreign nationals whose profession involves the transport of goods or people; and residents of Albania, Canada, Georgia, Japan, Montenegro, South Korea, and Ukraine traveling on direct flights. The Border Guard may approve additional exceptions on a case-by-case basis.

Further to this exemption, as of June 24, 2021, individuals traveling to Poland by air for the period of up to 24 hours who hold a plane ticket confirming departure from Poland within 24 hours from the date of arrival are officially exempt from the entry ban. These same individuals are also exempt from the post-arrival quarantine if they present their ticket to the Border Guard.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Effective October 19, 2021, individuals can present proof of vaccination with a vaccine approved by the National Institute of Public Health (NIPH) or a vaccine approved by the European Council. The quarantine exemption will be granted to individuals after proof of vaccination is shown to the Border Guard. To be fully vaccinated, an individual must have waited 14 days after the last dose to travel to Poland and have received a NIPH approved vaccine.

Effective from Saturday, October 9, 2021, all Turkish citizens traveling to Poland by air are exempt from the entry ban, regardless of the point of origin of travel and regardless of the purpose of entry.

As of September 30, 2021, Poland will extend quarantine measures until October 31, 2021.

Individuals will be exempt if they are able to present a digital COVID-19 certification issued in an EU country or a digital certificate confirming negative results of a COVID test issued by a non-EU country. After 30 September, digital certificates from the following non-EU countries will be accepted as a basis of quarantine exemption:

• Monaco
• Andorra
• Morocco
• Faroe Islands
• Panama
• Albania
• Turkey
• Republic of North Macedonia
• Ukraine
• San Marino
• Vatican City State

Persons vaccinated with an EU-approved COVID vaccine can obtain an EU digital certificate of vaccination in Poland. This option will be available also for vaccinations in non-EU countries (such as Ukraine or the US). It will be required to present 1) an original statement of vaccination with an EU-approved COVID vaccine issued by foreign authorities, 2) translation into Polish made by a sworn translator and 3) consent for personal data processing. Details of this process will be determined by public health authorities in Poland.

Exemption from quarantine for persons traveling for public conferences:

Persons traveling to take part as a participant in an international conference organized in Poland, by a state institution or a local (regional, municipal) institution will be exempt from quarantine past 30 September if the conference is organized based on the international agreement of Poland. Participants have to carry confirmation issued by the organizer of the conference to benefit from quarantine exemption. The exemption does not extend to conferences organized by other entities, such as private entities.

New regulations will allow for train connections between Poland and Ukraine (after 30 September). Train connections with Belarus remain suspended. The actual availability of train connections between Poland and Ukraine will depend on the decisions of transport companies

Vaccinated Travelers

As of June 23, 2021, updates to quarantine exemptions have been made for vaccinated travelers:

• Persons vaccinated with EU-approved vaccine are exempt from quarantine, but only if vaccinated at least 14 days prior to entering Poland
• Example: A traveler from the US (Polish work permit holder) was fully vaccinated with Pfizer vaccine, with a second dose taken on Tuesday. The traveler arrives in Poland by direct flight from the US on Friday. They will be subject to quarantine unless they pass a COVID test directly after arrival in Poland. Confirmation of vaccination will not work to exempt them from quarantine as there were less than 14 days between vaccination and entry to Poland
• Children under 12 years old traveling to Poland from other Schengen countries (air, land, sea) are exempt from quarantine if they travel with adults that either
  • Hold confirmation of vaccination with EU-approved vaccine, or
  • Have a negative test result for SARS-CoV-2 performed within 48 hours before entering Poland
• Children traveling to Poland from outside the Schengen area (air, land, sea) are exempt from quarantine only if they travel with adults that hold confirmation of vaccination with EU-approved vaccine
• Individuals traveling to Poland for the period of up to 24 hours are exempt from post-arrival quarantine, provided that they present to the Border Guard a plane ticket confirming departure from Poland within 24 hours from the date of arrival
• Travelers from the UK are no longer able to shorten quarantine by taking a test within 48 hours after arrival in Poland
• They will have to undergo mandatory quarantine of 10 days, only after 7 days from the moment of entering Poland they will be able to shorten the quarantine period
• The condition for shortening the quarantine is obtaining a negative test result for SARS-CoV-2 (it cannot be obtained earlier than after the above-mentioned 7-day period passes)
• End of quarantine applies from the moment a laboratory enters a negative test result to an appropriate official system
• In other words: same as the travelers from Brazil, India, and/or RSA, travelers from the UK will have to stay in quarantine for at least 7 days (unless they are subject to exemption from quarantine based on their status, such as enrolment to Polish school, vaccination, etc.)
• Please note that travelers will be subject to new restrictions if their travel to Poland originated in the UK – having a connection flight in another country will not modify their situation. The restriction is not limited to UK citizens or residents

Individuals who have symptoms of COVID-19 will be treated at a hospital.

The deadline for EU nationals to file EU registration applications (90 days from the last crossing of the Polish border) that were previously suspended is back in effect.

Status of Government Services

Immigration offices may send letters to applicants electronically until September 30, 2020, provided applicants agree to receive communications this way. Immigration offices may also ask applicants to review their case files via email and may conduct interviews via video conference or teleconference.

Immigration offices are closed for in-person services and are not honoring or scheduling appointments.

In-person address registration is not available at city halls, many of which are closed. Address registration can be conducted online through some city halls.

Concessions

• Work Permits and Special Permissions that expire during the epidemic will be automatically extended to 30 days beyond the official end of the epidemic state. For example, if an end to the epidemic in Poland is declared on June 30, an expired work permit will be extended until July 30
• National visas and residence cards that expire during the epidemic will be automatically extended to 30 days beyond the official end of the epidemic state with no need for amending or stamping to reflect the extension. Foreign nationals who wish to extend their residence beyond the automatic extension period may submit an extension application after the immigration offices reopen
• Foreign nationals in Poland on another basis (e.g., Schengen visa, residence permit of another Schengen country, visa-free stay) will be allowed to stay in Poland for 30 days beyond the end of the epidemic state if they were present in Poland on March 14, 2020. If they were not in Poland on March 14, they will be allowed to extend their stay in Poland to 30 days beyond the end of the epidemic state if they submit a residence permit application within 30 days of the end of the epidemic state. Foreign nationals who wish to do so are advised to file their residence applications by mail as soon as possible, as it may be difficult to obtain a filing appointment when the immigration offices reopen. Foreign nationals who do not do so but rather depart Poland at the end of the epidemic state will be considered to have been unlawfully present in Poland
• Residence cards that expire before 30 days from the end of the epidemic state will be automatically extended
• From August 2, 2021, Poland has modified the rules for registration formalities for EU nationals and members of their families without EU nationality
  • The changes are meant to increase the security standard of issued documents. Registration for EU nationals will no longer be issued as a paper document but as a plastic ID card
  • Non-EU members of families will be required to submit fingerprints both on submission and collection of their registration cards
  • New documents will be valid for 10 years for EU nationals and up to 5 years for non-EU members of families
• Pole Cards (Karta Polaka) that expire during the epidemic state will be automatically extended until three months beyond the end of the epidemic state. Pole Cardholders must apply for a new card during this period
• Citizens of Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Russia, and Ukraine can apply for Polish national visas in their countries without an in-person visit to the consulate. Each consulate will determine its own remote application process. The remote application process does not apply to Schengen short-stay visas for stays of up to 90 days
• Employers may apply measures such as requiring remote work, reduction of working hours, or reduction in remuneration to foreign nationals without triggering non-compliance with immigration law

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

As of September 1, 2021, non-essential travel to and from the US and Brazil will be permitted. Travelers must be able to present proof of a negative COVID-19 test that is conducted within 72 hours before entering the country.

Foreign nationals are banned from entering except for nationals of EU/Schengen countries and the UK and their family members; holders of Portuguese long-term visas or residence permits; holders of EU long-stay visas or residence permits transiting to their residence; medical and aid workers; travelers from Algeria, Canada, China, Morocco, South Korea, and Tunisia, subject to reciprocity; and travelers from Angola, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, São Tomé e Principe, the US, and Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, Brazil entering for health, study, work, family or humanitarian purposes. Additional exceptions may be made.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Beginning on August 1, 2021, Portugal began to reduce lockdown restrictions. This new announcement will be the final phase of lifting restrictions for the country and will mean that Portugal will move from a state of emergency to a state of alert.

Those arriving from Angola, Brazil (Rio de Janeiro and São Paolo), Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, São Tomé e Principe, and the United States are required to present a medical document issued no more than three days before departure confirming a negative COVID-19 test. Portuguese citizens and residents coming from these countries who cannot be tested before departure can complete a test on arrival.

Those arriving in the Azores from high-risk areas (per the World Health Organization) must also present a medical document as above. These travelers will also need to be tested at intervals after arrival. Those with positive test results will need to quarantine in a government facility for 14 days. Those arriving in Madeira must present a medical document as above or be tested on arrival.

Status of Government Services

Immigration offices (Foreigners and Borders Service (SEF)) have reopened and are scheduling appointments.

Tax registration remains suspended.

Portuguese embassies and consulates are starting to reopen for services by appointment. The processing of several types of visas has resumed. Please contact your local consulate to confirm its status, service offerings, and procedures.

Concessions

Visas and residence cards that have expired on or after February 24, 2020, are deemed extended until October 30, 2020.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

As of October 6, 2021, Qatar has classified countries into a list of Green, Red, and Exceptional Red countries based on international and local health risk indicators and COVID-19 rates in each country.

Updated August 27, 2021, all non-Qatari citizens or residents must register on this Ehteraz website at least 12 hours prior to traveling to Qatar to receive an entry permit. Foreign nationals are required to provide their passport and visa number through the website. Qatari citizens and residents are no longer required to complete this online pre-registration before travel.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

As of August 2, 2021, travelers from Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka must undergo a 10-day hotel quarantine upon arrival. Fully vaccinated individuals traveling from these countries must undergo a 2-day hotel quarantine and receive a negative PCR test to be able to leave their quarantine hotel.

All arriving travelers coming from a country that is not included in Qatar’s green list who have not been vaccinated for COVID-19 in Qatar are required to quarantine for 7 days in an officially approved quarantine hotel upon arrival.

Travelers that are arriving from a country included in the green list that has not been vaccinated in Qatar must quarantine for 7 days at their residence.

As of April 27, 2021, some testing requirements and quarantine exemptions have been updated.

Individuals that contracted and recovered from COVID-19 are exempt from quarantine rules when they enter Qatar if they receive a negative PCR test within 72 hours before their arrival. Proof of recovery must be provided through a lab-confirmed result within 6 months of their first positive COVID-19 test.

Individuals who have had the COVID-19 vaccine outside of Qatar are exempt from quarantining as long as they meet the following criteria:

• The vaccine they received has been approved by the Qatari Ministry of Public Health.
• They have completed the required dosage for the vaccine.
• 14 days have passed since receiving the full dosage of the vaccine.
• They present a valid vaccination certification to customs officials upon arrival.

Status of Government Services

The processing of initial entry visa applications and labor quota applications is on hold.

All Qatar Visa Centers are closed, and most immigration applications cannot be submitted in person.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

• Nationals of EU/Schengen countries and the UK
• The family members of EU/Schengen nationals who live in Romania
• Holders of Romanian long-stay visas or residence permits
• The family members of Romanian nationals
• Travelers entering for a professional reason, with a valid visa or residence permit
• Residents of Algeria, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, Morocco, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia and Uruguay, provided they do not have COVID-19 symptoms and they have proof of residence status in the country
• Those entering for a medical emergency
• Diplomats
• Travelers in transit whose trip is urgent
• Travelers may encounter immigration checks at land border crossings.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Status of Government Services

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

As of September 21, 2021, flights between Russia and Belarus will be restored in full and restrictions to air services will be lifted.

Passenger flights between Russia and the United Kingdom have been further suspended until June 1, 2021.

Passenger flights between Russia and the following countries are resumed: Egypt, UAE, Maldives, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Finland, Serbia, Cuba, Japan, Qatar, India, and Vietnam.

Beginning May 25, 2021, passenger flights between Russia and the following countries will resume Belarus, Iceland, Malta, Mexico, Portugal, and Saudi Arabia.

Citizens and permanent residents of Belarus can now enter Russia from any country with which Russia opened air communications. Entry is also permitted by rail.

Citizens and permanent residents of Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Kyrgyzstan can enter Russia from the country of their citizenship or permanent residence provided the following conditions are observed:

• Entry only through direct flights (exception for citizens of Belarus who can also enter via rail transportation)
• Must present a negative COVID-19 Test taken within 72 hours before entry and have the original certificate with them (English or Russian language)
• Before traveling, they must complete the following questionnaire

All other foreign nationals are prohibited from entering Russia until further notice except for the following:

• Employees of foreign embassies, consulates, international organizations, and their family members and those holding diplomatic or official visas;
• Those holding ordinary private visas issued in connection with the death of a close relative (death certificate and evidence of family connection must be presented);
• Close relatives (spouses, parents, children) of Russian nationals who are traveling with the Russian national family member and who present evidence of the relationship;
• Foreign nationals permanently residing in the Russian Federation (holders of a permanent residence permit (PRP));
• Holders of valid Highly Qualified Specialist (HQS) work permits and visas (with Federal Ministry, Federal Security Service, and Ministry of Internal Affairs approval; only one entry is permitted) and their family members (including Spouses, Parents; Children; Adoptive parents; Adopted children);
• Those who are transiting through air checkpoints;
• Participants in the state program for the relocation of compatriots living abroad, provided they have valid identification documents confirming this status and a certificate of participation in the program;
• Certain foreign nationals conducting installation and technical support of foreign equipment, with the authorization of the Federal Security Service;
• Professional athletes, under certain conditions;
• Those entering to receive medical treatment, with an invitation from the medical provider (allowed only once); and
• Those entering to care for a close family member who is ill (spouse, parent, child, adopted child, adoptive parent, caretaker), with documents confirming the relative’s condition and the relationship (allowed only once).

Also allowed to enter under all types of visas are nationals of Abkhazia, Switzerland, Tanzania, Turkey, and those who hold permanent residence permits in these countries. Such travelers must be entering from these countries–they may not enter from a third country. The Internal Affairs Ministry will issue all types of invitation letters and Russian consulates will issue all types of visas on the basis of the issued invitation letters for these travelers. They do not need to be on the lists of the Internal Affairs Ministry or Federal Security Service or be approved by the relevant Ministry to enter Russia.

Russian citizens are prohibited from crossing Russian land borders, including the Russia-Belarus border, except for the following Russian citizens:

• Diplomats and officials and their family members
• Drivers and crew members
• Military personnel
• Those exiting Russia due to the death of a close relative (a copy of the death certificate and evidence of family connection must be presented)
• Those with permanent residence in the Kaliningradskaya region traveling by train through Russia to the Kaliningradskaya region or back, provided they have evidence (passport stamp) of permanent registration in Kaliningrad
• Those permanently residing in Donetsk or Lugansk (must have and present a Russian passport)
• Employees of organizations engaged in the building of critical nuclear energy infrastructure in foreign countries based on international agreements
• Those who have citizenship or permanent residence in a foreign country on a one-way trip to their place of residence

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

All foreign nationals, including those in transit, must present on arrival a negative result from a PCR test for COVID-19. The test results must be in English or Russian and the test must be done no more than 3 days before entering Russia. If the test results are not in one of these languages, the test certificate must be translated into Russian and the translation must be verified by the nearest Russian consulate. Employers are responsible for informing their employees of the requirement to be tested within three days of entry and for confirming that their employees comply with the requirement.

Re-entering Russian citizens are required to pass a COVID-19 PCR test and upload the results via the government internet portal gosuslugi within three days of arrival. They are also required to complete a special form online before their flight.

Travelers entering the country for work purposes are required to self-quarantine for 14 days. Those considered to be entering for work purposes are those with newly issued work visas (or entering visa-free to work), as well as those returning with long-term work visas issued earlier that are still valid.

Foreign nationals and Russian citizens planning to enter Russia are required to complete an Entry Questionnaire, which will be checked before their flight and on arrival.

Residents of Moscow with cold or flu symptoms and those living with them are required to self-quarantine for 14 days. Those with symptoms may only leave their residence to receive medical care. Those living with them may leave to purchase necessities.

Applicants for a temporary residence permit (TRP), PRP, work permit (visa-nationals), or patent (CIS citizens) will need to pass a COVID-19 test. The test is currently not required for applications for HQS work permits.

Moscow’s self-isolation period has ended, and e-passes are no longer required.

Employers may no longer hire or continue to employ foreign nationals without a new or renewed work permit or patent. Work permits and patents are again required for all employees.

Status of Government Services

Highly qualified specialists and their family members will be issued permanent residence permits with an indefinite duration. Once obtained the employee will be able to continue working in Russia without the need to renew a work permit. Applicants will need to comply with specific criteria to obtain the indefinite HQS permit.

There is a new procedure of address registration for foreign nationals known as “Inviting party”; allowing foreigners, who own residential premises in Russia, to register other foreign nationals, who will stay in their premises for residence. In order to register, foreign citizens will have to provide notification and notarized consent from the inviting party to register themselves and their family members. Address registration applications will now also be accepted through the government internet portal “Gosuslugi”. Participants of the government program for relocation of compatriots living abroad as well as their family members (relocating with them) will not have to register within 30 calendar days from arrival to the place of residence\stay. After the expiration of this period, they will be given another 7 business days to file for address registration.

The following services remain unavailable:

• Invitation letters for entry to Russia, except for foreign nationals conducting installation and technical support of foreign equipment and for HQS work permits
• Corporate work permits
• Work permits for foreign nationals who are abroad, except for HQS work permits
• Visa issuance by Russian consulates abroad, except for those in the exception
  categories listed above
• E-visas

Submission of documents for various processes is still possible through the Sakhorovo Migration Center in Moscow, which remains open. Address registration can be completed through a post office. Quarterly salary notifications for HQS work permit holders and notification of the signing of labor agreements or dismissal of foreign nationals can also be conducted.

Applicants have to apply for a new letter following the process of obtaining entry approval from the Federal Security Service and the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Concessions

Highly qualified specialists and their family members who previously entered the Russian Federation are given the opportunity to travel outside the Russian Federation for Christmas and New Year holidays and return back until January 10, 2021. It is mandatory to have a medical document (in Russian or English) confirming a negative test result for COVID-19 by PCR, obtained no earlier than 3 days before the date of return to the Russian Federation.

The territorial divisions of the Internal Affairs Ministry are required to do the following:

• Approve applications for extension of stay for up to 90 days for foreign nationals who entered Russia on short-term visa-free travel (including cases in which the stay has already expired and the foreign national could not leave Russia before the expiration date). The applicant will later be issued a transit visa to exit the country; For visa-exempt foreign nationals that do not have migration cards, issue duplicates and process their address registration applications;
• Issue exit visas to those who wish to leave Russia;
• Extend TRP or PRP for applicants whose documents will soon expire or have already expired;
• Not annual work permits, TRP, or PRP, even if the holder has exceeded the 6-month limit for stays abroad if the permit holder is unable to enter Russia.

Foreign nationals who hold the following documents with an expiration date between March 15 and December 15, 2020, will have their documents automatically extended for 275 days from the document’s expiration date:

• Visas (all types)
• Temporary and permanent address registration
• Migration cards
• TRP
• PRP
• Documents confirming refugee status, the status of “mandatory moved person”, or participation in the state program for relocation of compatriots living abroad

This automatic extension no longer applies to HQS work permits, standard work permits, corporate employment permits, or patents (if the patent expires between March 15 and December 15, 2020, it is possible to apply for its renewal without leaving Russia). Holders of these documents and their employers are required to apply for an extension using the standard process.

Holders of business, guest, tourist, private and technical visas will have to leave Russia once the 276-day grace period expires unless they can find an employer and apply for a work permit and work visa by December 15, 2020.

Foreign nationals with work visas expiring between March 15 and December 15, 2020, can apply for an extension; although applications for work visa extensions are being accepted now, provided the work permit has been extended (work permit extension applications are also being accepted now).

The period between March 15 and December 15, 2020, will not be counted toward the six-month stay limit abroad applicable to participants of state programs for relocation of compatriots living abroad, TRP and PRP holders, and foreign nationals subject to administrative removal or deportation will not be required to depart during this period.

Certain rulings will not be made between March 15 and December 15, 2020, such as those for deportation, administrative removal, and the cancellation of various permits and visas.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Effective on May 31, travel is permitted from France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates, the UK and the US Travelers from these countries will still be required to undergo a mandatory quarantine upon arrival and adhere to current COVID-19 policies.

Effective August 9, 2021, only fully vaccinated citizens of Saudi Arabia will be allowed to travel abroad. Children under the age of 12 years are exempt from this requirement provided that they hold insurance approved by the Saudi Central Bank.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Upon returning to Saudi Arabia, citizens must undergo a seven-day home quarantine and take the PCR test on the last day of quarantine. Children under the age of 8 are exempt from the test.

Effective on May 20, non-citizens and exempted travelers, over the age of eight, will be required to submit a PCR test certificate within 72 hours departing for the country and a valid health insurance policy covering COVID-19 before and upon arrival in the Kingdom.

Unvaccinated individuals must undergo a seven-day institutional quarantine at their own expense and take the PCR test on the first and seventh day of quarantine. The quarantine will not be applicable to immunized individuals provided they submit an official vaccination certificate before and upon their arrival. Individuals who received the vaccine less than 14 days before their arrival will still need to quarantine.

Effective August 1, 2021, only fully vaccinated people will be allowed to enter public places and private establishments.

The mechanism for dealing with unvaccinated employees in the public sector will be as follows:

The government entity shall take a gradualist strategy in dealing with the unvaccinated employee/worker in the following ways:

• Direct the employee to work remotely in accordance with the need for work (considering the specific percentage of those who work remotely in the area, which has already been specified in the circulars of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development)
• If the entity does not benefit from the telework of the employee, a due leave shall be granted in accordance with its terms and requirements
• If the employee has no balance due of leaves, does not meet its conditions, or has reached the maximum limit for utilizing the vacation, he shall be treated by deducting the days of absence from the regular leave balance or consider it as absence with an excuse without salary, depending on the circumstances. The implications of the employee/worker shall be dealt with in accordance with the statutory procedures

The mechanism for dealing with unvaccinated employees in the private and non-profit sector will be as follows:

The employer shall take a gradualist strategy in dealing with the unvaccinated employee/worker in the following ways:

• Direct the employee to work remotely according to the need for work
• If the entity does not benefit from the telework of the employee, the employer will agree with the employee to grant him a leave calculated from the balance of his annual leave due
• In the absence of the balance of the worker’s annual leave due, the worker is granted unpaid leave and the employment contract will be suspended during the duration of this leave for more than 20 days unless the parties agree otherwise

If the employer does not agree with the worker on the procedures, the implications of the employee/worker shall be dealt with in accordance with the statutory procedures.

The employer must inform the worker of the decisions made in this regard.

Concessions

Saudi Arabia will automatically renew the validity of residence permits (Iqama), exit and re-entry visas of foreign nationals stranded abroad until September 30, 2021.

Visitor visas of foreign nationals living in a country from which travel to Saudi Arabia are banned will also be automatically extended until September 30, 2021.

Saudi Arabia will automatically renew the validity of residence permits (Iqama), exit and re-entry visas of foreign nationals stranded abroad until August 31, 2021.

The residence visa-related extensions will only be granted to foreign nationals from the 20 countries, the list of which was announced on February 2, from where entry into the Kingdom was suspended as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 20 countries include the United Arab Emirates, Germany, USA, UK, South Africa, France, Egypt, Lebanon, India, Pakistan, Argentina, Brazil, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Portugal, Sweden, Swiss Confederation, and Turkey.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Beginning November 29, 2021, Vaccinated Travel Lanes (VTL) will be open between Singapore and Malaysia, Singapore and Finland and Singapore, and Sweden.

Beginning November 8, 2021, Singapore will extend its Vaccinated Travel Lanes to include travelers and citizens from Australia and Switzerland.

Citizens of Denmark, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Canada, and the US will be able to travel using the VTLs beginning October 19, 2021. Travelers from these countries will no longer be required to quarantine upon arrival in Singapore. Applications to travel using the CTLs will open on October 12, 2021.

Beginning November 1, 2021, travelers from Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Spain, and Sweden will be subject to the following travel health control measures under WPHL:

Take a COVID-19 Polymerase Chain Reaction test (“COVID-19 PCR test”) within 48 hours before departure at an internationally accredited or recognized lab/clinic/medical facility and obtain a copy of the COVID-19 PCR test report that:

• Is in English (or accompanied with an English translation)
• Contains the following:
  • COVID-19 PCR test results and date of the test
  • Traveler’s name
  • Date of Birth or Passport number (per the passport used to travel to Singapore
• Take on-arrival COVID-19 PCR test at the Singapore checkpoint: Submitters must register and pay for the on-arrival test ($160 including GST) before the pass holder arrives in Singapore. Otherwise, pass holders may be denied entry, and the submitter’s subsequent entry applications may be rejected
• Serve a seven-day SHN in one of the following:
  • Suitable accommodation sourced by submitters (e.g. hotels or serviced apartments)
  • Place of residence (only occupied by the pass holder or family, including any helpers)
• Take a COVID-19 PCR test ($125 including GST) on day seven of SHN

All pass holders from these regions must also be fully vaccinated before arrival in Singapore.

Beginning November 1, 2021, travelers from Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Bhutan, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Egypt, Fiji, Greece, Iceland, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Maldives, Norway, Slovakia Switzerland, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States will be subject to the following travel health control measures under WPHL:

• Must be fully vaccinated before arrival
• Take a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours before departure at an internationally accredited or recognized lab/clinic/medical facility and obtain a copy of the COVID-19 PCR test report that:
  • Is in English or accompanied with an English translation
  • Contains the following
    • COVID-19 PCR test results and date of the test
    • Name of pass-holder
    • Date of Birth or Passport number (per the passport used to travel to Singapore)
• Take on-arrival COVID-19 PCR test at the Singapore checkpoint:
  • Submitters must register and pay for the on-arrival test ($160 including GST) before the pass holder arrives in Singapore. Otherwise, pass holders may be denied entry, and the submitter’s subsequent entry applications may be rejected.
• Serve a ten-day SHN at:
  • SHN dedicated facility (SDF) ($1,450 including GST), where the pass holder will:
    • Self-administer Antigen Rapid Tests on days three, seven of arrival ($20 including GST)
    • Take a COVID-19 PCR test ($125 including GST) on day ten of SHN
  • Place of residence or suitable accommodation (e.g. hotel or serviced apartment) (if eligible*), where the pass holder will:
    • Self-administer Antigen Rapid Tests on days three, seven of arrival ($20 including GST)
    • Take a COVID-19 PCR test ($125 including GST) on day ten of SHN

Passholders from the following countries who were vaccinated overseas must: Take a serology test at a Public Health Preparedness Clinic to confirm their vaccination status within 14 days of completing SHN. Please call the clinic to check if they offer serology tests.

Beginning September 22, 2021, travelers from Hong Kong, Macao, Mainland China, and Taiwan will be subject to the following travel health control measures under WPHL:

• Take an on-arrival COVID-19 PCR test at the Singapore checkpoint; submitters must register and pay for the on-arrival test ($160 including GST) before the pass holders arrive in Singapore. Otherwise, pass holders may be denied entry and the submitter’s subsequent entry application may be rejected
• Proceed immediately to and self-isolate in one of the following accommodations until they get a negative test result
• Suitable accommodation sourced by submitters (e.g. hotels or serviced apartments)
  • For hotels, submitters should check and ensure they can accommodate guests on self-isolation when booking
• Room with an attached toilet in the house
• If tested negative, they can go about their activities in Singapore, without a need to serve SHN

Travelers from Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Germany, New Zealand, Poland, Republic of Korea and Saudi Arabia must:

• Take a COVID-19 Polymerase Chain Reaction test (“COVID-19 PCR test”) within 48 hours before departure at an internationally accredited or recognized lab/clinic/medical facility and obtain a copy of the COVID-19 PCR test report that:
  • Is in English (or accompanied with an English translation)
  • Contains the following:
    • COVID-19 PCR test results and date of the test
    • Traveler’s name
    • Date of Birth or Passport number (per the passport used to travel to Singapore
  • Take on-arrival COVID-19 PCR test at the Singapore checkpoint: Submitters must register and pay for the on-arrival test ($160 including GST) before the pass holder arrives in Singapore. Otherwise, pass holders may be denied entry, and the submitter’s subsequent entry applications may be rejected
  • Serve a 7-day SHN in one of the following:
    • Suitable accommodation sourced by submitters (e.g. hotels or serviced apartments)
    • Place of residence (only occupied by the pass holder or family, including any helpers)
  • Rake a COVID-19 PCR test ($125 including GST) on Day 7 of SHN

Travelers from Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, Finland, France, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland must:

• Be fully vaccinated before arrival. An individual is considered fully vaccinated 14 days after he/she has received the full regimen of Pfizer-BioNTech/ Comirnaty, Moderna, or WHO EUL vaccines
• Take a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours before departure at an internationally accredited or recognized lab/clinic/medical facility and obtain a copy of the COVID-19 PCR test report that:
  • Is in English or accompanied with an English translation
  • Contains the following:
    • COVID-19 PCR test results and date of the test
    • Name of pass-holder
    • Date of Birth or Passport number (per the passport used to travel to Singapore)
  • Take on-arrival COVID-19 PCR test at the Singapore checkpoint: Submitters must register and pay for the on-arrival test ($160 including GST) before the pass holder arrives in Singapore. Otherwise, pass holders may be denied entry, and the submitter’s subsequent entry applications may be rejected.
  • Serve a 14-day SHN at:
    • SHN dedicated facility (SDF) ($2,000 including GST), where the pass holder will (a) self-administer Antigen Rapid Tests on Days 3, 7, and 11 of arrival ($40 including GST), and (b) take a COVID-19 PCR test ($125 including GST) on Day 14 of SHN
    • Place of residence or suitable accommodation (e.g. hotel or serviced apartment) (if eligible*), and take a COVID-19 PCR test ($125 including GST) on Day 14 of SHN
  • (Only for pass holders who were vaccinated overseas): Take a serology test at a Public Health Preparedness Clinic to confirm their vaccination status within 14 days of completing SHN. Please call the clinic to check if they offer serology tests. During the entry application, submitters can request for pass holders to serve their 14-day SHN at a place of residence or suitable accommodation (e.g. hotel or serviced apartment), instead of SDFs. Submitters can only do so if the pass holder fulfills both of these conditions:
    • The place of residence or accommodation is occupied by the pass holder alone or household members, including any helpers, who are also vaccinated 2 and have the same travel history, arrival date, and SHN duration as the pass-holder
    • Pass holder does not stay in a dormitory

Travelers from Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka must:

• Must be fully vaccinated before arrival
• Take a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours before departure at an internationally accredited or recognized lab/clinic/medical facility and obtain a copy of the COVID-19 PCR test report that:
  • Is in English or accompanied with an English translation
  • Contains the following:
    • COVID-19 PCR test results and date of the test
    • Name of pass-holder
    • Date of Birth or Passport number (per the passport used to travel to Singapore)
  • Take on-arrival COVID-19 PCR test ($160 including GST) at the Singapore checkpoint
  • Serve a 14-day SHN at an SHN dedicated facility (SDF) ($2,000 including GST) and:
    • Self-administer Antigen Rapid Tests ($40 including GST) on Days 3, 7, and 11 of arrival
    • Take a COVID-19 PCR test ($125 including GST) on Day 14 of SHN
  • (Only for pass holders who were vaccinated overseas)
    • Take a serology test at a Public Health Preparedness Clinic to confirm their vaccination status# within 14 days of completing SHN. Please call the clinic to check if they offer serology tests

Beginning September 8, 2021, Singapore will open a Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) that will allow fully vaccinated Singapore citizens and permanent residents to travel to Singapore without being required to quarantine. For further information visit Singapore’s Travel Safe website. Singapore citizens and permanent residents do not need to apply for a Vaccinated Travel Pass to travel using the Vaccinated Travel Lane. Fully vaccinated and qualified travelers from the countries of Brunei and Germany will be able to apply for a Vaccinated Travel Pass beginning September 1, 2021, and will then be able to travel using the Vaccinated Travel Lane beginning on September 8, 2021.

Updated August 30, 2021, pass holders who have arrived in Singapore before 30 August 2021, 2359h, are not eligible for the updated border measures announced on 28 August 2021 and should follow the health measures as communicated on their Stay Home Notices.

Note: Pass holders aged 3 years old and above in the current calendar year (i.e., born in 2018 or before) are required to take the COVID-19 tests listed below.

Please see the new update (as of 28 August 2021) for Singapore from the ICA’s SafeTravel Website for your reference.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Effective January 18, 2021, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce (MTF) has mandated that newly arrived work permit and S pass holders from the Construction, Marine, and Process (CMP) sectors from higher-risk countries/regions, take an On-Arrival Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test and an On-Arrival Serology Test in Singapore.

The cost of the new On-Arrival Tests will be borne by the employers.

Travelers arriving by air: Must use Changi Airport’s eService to book and pay for the tests before the pass holders arrive in Singapore.

Travelers arriving by land: On arrival, pass holders must register and pay for the tests at the checkpoints. Find out who is responsible for the cost of the COVID-19 tests.

Travelers arriving by sea: Must use MPA’s eService to book and pay for the tests before arrival in Singapore.

Travel Health Control Measures for WPHL-pass holders.

Travel Health Control Measures for Travellers Arriving from 9 September 2021, 2359h.

Travelers arriving in Singapore before 9 September 2021, 2359h, are ineligible for the measures stated below. They will be subjected to the health measure stipulated in their Stay Home Notice (SHN).

Note: Pass holders aged 3 years old and above in the current calendar year (i.e. born in 2018 or before) are required to take the COVID-19 tests listed below).

Pass holders who have spent 21 consecutive days in Hong Kong, Macao, Mainland China, or Taiwan before arriving in Singapore are required to take an on-arrival COVID-19 PCR test at the Singapore checkpoint. Submitters must register and pay for the on-arrival test ($160 including GTS) before the pass holder arrives in Singapore. Otherwise, pass holders may be denied entry, and the submitter’s subsequent entry applications may be rejected. After arrival, proceed immediately to and self-isolation in one of the following accommodations until they receive a negative COVID-19 test result:

• Suitable accommodation sourced by submitters (E.g. hotels or serviced apartments). For hotels, submitters should check and ensure they can accommodate guests on self-isolation when booking.
• Room with an attached toilet in their house

If tested negative, they can go about their activities in Singapore, without needing to serve SHN.

Pass holders who spent 21 consecutive days in Australia, Brunei, Canada, Germany, New Zealand, or the Republic of Korea before arriving in Singapore are required to take a COVID-19 Polymerase Chain Reaction test (PCR) 48 hours before departure at an internationally accredited or recognized lab/clinic/medical facility and obtain a copy of the COVID-19 PCR test report that:

• Is in English (or accompanied with an English translation);
• Contains the following:
  • COVID-19 PCR test results and date of the test;
  • Traveler’s name; and
  • Date of Birth or Passport number (per the passport used to travel to Singapore)
• Take an on-arrival COVID-19 PCR test at the Singapore checkpoint: Submitters must register and pay for the on-arrival test ($160 including GST) before the pass holder arrives in Singapore. Otherwise, pass holders may be denied entry and the submitter’s subsequent entry applications may be rejected.
• Serve a 7-day SHN in one of the following:
  • Suitable accommodation sourced by submitters (e.g. hotels or serviced apartments). For hotels, submitters should check and ensure they can accommodate guests serving SHN when booking. Pass holders are not allowed to serve SHN in dormitories or residences occupied by non-family members.
  • Place of residence (only occupied by the pass holder or family)
• Take a COVID-19 PCR test ($125 including GST) on Day 7 of SHN.

Pass holders who spent 21 consecutive days in Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Egypt, Finland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, and Sweden before arriving in Singapore must be:

• Fully vaccinated before arrival.
• Take a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours before departure at an internationally accredited or recognized lab/clinic/medical facility and obtain a copy of the COVID-19 PCR test report that:
  • Is in English or accompanied with an English translation;
  • Contains the following:
    • COVID-19 PCR test results and date of the test;
    • Name of pass holder; and
    • Date of Birth or Passport number (per the passport used to travel to Singapore).
• Take on-arrival COVID-19 PCR test at the Singapore checkpoint:
  • Submitters must register and pay for the on-arrival test ($160 including GST) before the pass holder arrives in Singapore. Otherwise, pass holders may be denied entry, and the submitter’s subsequent entry applications may be rejected.
• Serve a 14-day SHN at:
  • SHN dedicated facility (SDF) ($2,000 including GST), where the pass holder will (a) self-administer Antigen Rapid Tests on Days 3, 7, and 11 of arrival ($40 including GST), and (b) take a COVID-19 PCR test ($125 including GST) on Day 14 of SHN.
  • Place of residence or suitable accommodation (e.g. hotel or serviced apartment) (if eligible*), and take a COVID-19 PCR test ($125 including GST) on Day 14 of SHN.
• (Only for pass holders who were vaccinated overseas)
  • Take a serology test at a Public Health Preparedness Clinic to confirm their vaccination status# within 14 days of completing SHN. Please call the clinic to check if they offer serology tests.

* During the entry application, submitters can request for pass holders to serve their 14-day SHN at a place of residence or suitable accommodation (e.g. hotel or serviced apartment), instead of SDFs. Submitters can only do so if the pass holder fulfills both of these conditions:

• The place of residence or accommodation is occupied by the pass holder alone or household members, including any helpers, who are also vaccinated and have the same travel history, arrival date, and SHN duration as the pass holder.

These groups of pass holders do not need to be vaccinated before entering Singapore:

• Pass holders who are below 18 years old on the date of entry.
• Pass holders who cannot be vaccinated due to medical conditions.

Pass holders who have spent 21 consecutive days in all other countries (excluding: Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) must:

• Be fully vaccinated before arrival.
• Take a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours before departure at an internationally accredited or recognized lab/clinic/medical facility and obtain a copy of the COVID-19 PCR test report that:
  • Is in English or accompanied with an English translation;
  • Contains the following:
    • COVID-19 PCR test results and date of the test;
    • Name of pass holder; and
    • Date of Birth or Passport number (per the passport used to travel to Singapore).
  • Pass holders with a travel history to Indonesia or the Philippines within the last 21 days before arrival must take an Antigen Rapid Test (ART) and PCR test ($227 including GST).
  • All other pass holders must take a PCR test ($160 including GST).
• Submitters must register and pay for the on-arrival test before the pass holder arrives in Singapore. Otherwise, pass holders may be denied entry, and the submitter’s subsequent entry applications may be rejected.
• Serve a 14-day SHN at an SHN dedicated facility (SDF) ($2,000 including GST) and:
  • Self-administer Antigen Rapid Tests ($40 including GST) on Day 3, 7, and 11 of arrival; and
  • Take a COVID-19 PCR test ($125 including GST) on Day 14 of SHN.
• (Only for pass holders who were vaccinated overseas) Take a serology test at a Public Health Preparedness Clinic to confirm their vaccination status within 14 days of completing SHN. Please call the clinic to check if they offer serology tests.

Status of Government Services

As of May 11, 2021, and until further notice, the Government is reducing entry approvals for work pass holders entering Singapore in the coming weeks. Due to the need to reschedule the entry of work pass holders who had already obtained approval to enter Singapore, new entry applications from higher-risk countries will not be accepted until further notice. The Ministry of Manpower will be reaching out to affected work pass holders and their employers about the changes to their entry.

These changes will not affect work pass holders already given or seeking entry approval to enter Singapore from lower-risk countries.

The government is resuming activities after the Circuit Breaker safe distancing period in three phases. Phase 1: Safe Reopening began on June 2, 2020. Accordingly, there are changes to work pass services effective June 2, 2020, including the resumption of some services. Please see MOM’s advisory and FAQs for details on these changes. Phase 2: Safe Transition began on June 19 and remains in place.

Concessions

To help employers defer bringing foreigners into Singapore, MOM will automatically extend the validity of IPAs that expired during the Circuit Breaker period (April 7 to June 1, 2020) by two months. There is no need to request an extension.

Pass holders who are unable to get an appointment to visit the Employment Pass Services Centre or MOM Services Centre (Hall C) for card registration before their notification letters expire will have their notification letter expiry dates automatically extended. No hard copy letters will be issued for this extension.

Employers may reduce salaries for Employment and S Pass holders that were unable to work during the Circuit Breaker period.

Find all of MOM’s advisories on COVID-19 here. Find all updates on border control measures in response to COVID-19 on the ICA website. If you are overseas, you may visit this website and the Ministry of Health’s website for updates on Singapore’s COVID-19 situation.

South Africa’s government has decided to move to level 1, effective September 20, 2020.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

South African land borders are closed through February 15, 2021. Certain admissions and departures through national land borders will still be permitted, including individuals who need medical treatment, individuals involved in the transportation of fuel, goods, and cargo; returning South African citizens; permanent residents and long-term visa holders; South African citizens and permanent residents leaving for employment, study or residence outside the country; foreign nationals returning to their country of origin; diplomats; daily commuters from neighboring countries who receive education in South Africa, and individuals who are traveling to attend the funeral of an immediate relative.

Travelers who arrive through the Tambo International Airport, King Shaka International Airport, and Cape Town International Airport must have a negative COVID-19 test obtained within 72 hours of travel.

As of October 1, 2020, travel into and out of South Africa for business, leisure and other travel will be allowed, subject to various containment and mitigation measures as the following: Travel restrictions will be applied to countries with high infection rates; travelers will be able to use one land border post or one main airport (King Shaka, Tambo or Cape Town); Travelers must present a negative Covid-19 test result not older than 72 hours from the time of departure; if the Covid-19 test is not provided traveler will remain in mandatory quarantine at their own cost; travelers will be screened upon arrival and determined if they need to quarantine if they present symptoms; travelers must install the COVID Alert South Africa mobile app.

It has been announced that all restrictions on inter-provincial travel will be lifted.
South Africa updated their list of high-risk countries as Argentina, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Columbia, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Italy, Mexico, Netherlands, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Spain, United States of America and the United Kingdom. Leisure travel from these countries is not allowed. Business travelers and seasonal workers may apply by e-mail for special permission to enter the country. Specific documentation needs to be presented. Long-term visa holders may travel to South Africa without prior approval.

The DHA confirmed that foreign nationals that wish to be repatriated to their countries within this period can depart without being declared undesirable persons.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

All persons entering South Africa through any point of entry must be subjected to screening at the point of entry. Anyone who has had exposure to COVID -19 or is presenting with any signs and symptoms of it, must be subjected to a medical examination which may include testing, and may be placed under mandatory quarantine for a minimum period of 10 days. They may, however, be permitted to self-quarantine at a place that complies with the following requirements:

1. The place must have a separate, well-ventilated bedroom with a bathroom and toilet, or be a residence that is not shared with persons who are not subject to quarantine;
2. Meals must be served in the room with disposable utensils or utensils that are separate and are washed properly if there are persons who are not subject to quarantine;
3. They must have the support of friends or family who can facilitate the drop off of food and medicine at the entrance if they are not able to make use of online shopping facilities and contactless deliveries;
4. They must have a thermometer that will allow them to measure their temperature daily;
5. They must have access to the internet and a phone that allows the daily reporting of symptoms;
6. They must have access to a private physician that they can contact should they be in need of medical advice or care; and
7. They must have a contact number where they can be reached during the period of self-quarantine or self-isolation.

A person who wishes to be placed under self-quarantine, or their employer, must submit a written application, 72 hours prior to the intended date of travel to South Africa, to the Director-General of the Department of Health (DG) to obtain approval. Where approval for self-quarantine has not been granted or it has been determined that the person has failed to adhere to the self-quarantine conditions, they will be placed in a state-identified quarantine facility.

Self-quarantine and self-isolation are at the person’s own, or the employer’s, expense. Employers who wish to have their employees in quarantine or isolation facilities of the employers’ choice must pay all costs incurred. Monitoring and testing of employees in quarantine or isolation remains the responsibility of the employer and will be at no cost to the state. If a person’s application is approved by the DG they will be allowed to self-quarantine or self-isolate on arrival and they will be subjected to health reporting protocols and regular follow-ups by the Department of Health.

Status of Government Services

The South African government is now automatically extending visas through March 31, 2021. Foreign nationals who are already in the country with visas that have expired and were automatically extended through January 31, 2021, due to their inability to travel during the COVID-19 will have their visas automatically extended through March 31, 2021. They do not need to submit a formal application. Foreign tourists who arrived in South Africa before the new Regulations on January 11, 2021, will also have their visas extended through March 31, 2021. They do not need to submit a formal application.

South African missions abroad will open for visa applications and all long-term visas will be reinstated. The Department of Home Affairs will resume normal operations, which implies the full resumption of the processing of all visa, permit, and related applications at the central permitting hub in Pretoria.

Once the VACs resume normal operations foreign nationals whose visas have expired from February 15, 2020, onwards can proceed to apply to renew them. Those who have visas in restricted categories such as, but not limited to, short-term visitors who held 3-month Visitor’s Visas which have expired and which have now exceeded the maximum 3-month renewal period and which are technically no longer renewable (as the holder has already been present in the country for more than 6-months in total), and holders of Intra-Company Transfer Work Visas that have already been issued for the maximum 4-year duration provided for in the law and are thus also legally not renewable, can apply to renew their visas until October 31, 2020.

If the application is not finalized on or before October 31, a foreign national will still be allowed to depart from the country without being declared an undesirable person.
Foreign nationals who are ordinarily resident here with long-term visas which are renewable and which have expired may either apply to renew their visas for the relevant duration allowed by law (the maximum duration pertaining to the category of visa which they hold), apply to change the conditions of their existing visa or apply to change their visa category from one to another and they must do so as soon as possible when the VACs start accepting applications again. Those who apply for visa renewals will be allowed to continue conducting the activities allowed by their initial visa until the outcome of their application is received.

Those who apply will not be penalized due to the fact that their visas have expired, and they are not required to first regularize their stays before applying.

Concessions

The Department of Home Affairs has issued new Directions containing extended and new visa concessions for foreign nationals currently in South Africa in respect of the Covid-19 pandemic and in the context of the State of Disaster Regulations which remain in force. The concessions can be summarised as follows:

Short-term Visa Holders (visas issued for up to 3 months (90 days))

This typically will apply to short-term holiday and business visitors in possession of Visitor’s Visas.

Any short-term visa issued for less than 90 days before March 15, 2021, which expired during the national State of Disaster or which will expire before June 30, 2021, is automatically deemed renewed until September 30, 2021.

Foreign nationals holding these visas do not need to apply to renew their visas and they may leave the country on or before September 30, 2021, without being declared undesirable at the Immigration Service upon departure if their visas have expired.

Long-term Visa Holders (visas issued for more than 3 months (90 days))

Long-term visas issued before March 15, 2021, which expired during the national State of Disaster or which will expire before September 30, 2021, including the undermentioned categories, are automatically deemed renewed until September 30, 2021, to allow the holders sufficient time to submit applications to either renew their visas or change their statuses to any other appropriate category of visa, even if their current visa has expired. While their renewal applications are in process, they may continue conducting the activities allowed by their current visas. The holders of these visas may leave the country on or before September 30, 2021, without being declared undesirable by the Immigration Service upon their departure if their visas have expired, if they choose not to remain in the country.

Applicable categories of long-term Visa:

• Visas issued for more than 90 days up to 3 years (including Relative’s Visas);
• Study Visas;
• Treaty Visas;
• Business Visas;
• Medical Treatment Visas;
• General Work Visas;
• Critical Skills Work Visas;
• Retired Person Visas; and
• Exchange Visas.

Please note that the long-term visa concession does not apply to holders of Intra-Company Transfer Work Visas (“ICT Work Visas”), as there is already a concession in place which allows qualifying foreign nationals whose 4-year ICT Work Visas will be expiring on or before June 30, 2021, to apply for a new ICT Work Visa from within the country for a further two-year period.

The government has placed the capital – Seoul – and the nearby Gyeonggi and Incheon areas under the Level 2 social distancing scheme. Face masks are mandatory at all times, fines will apply for those in violation.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Effective November 15, 2021, Singapore citizens traveling to South Korea will be exempt from the two-week quarantine upon arrival if they meet certain conditions, such as:

• Fully vaccinated in Singapore. Got both first and second doses in Singapore
• Stayed in Singapore for at least more than 14 days before traveling from Singapore to South Korea
• Enroll a traveler’s insurance before departure from Singapore
• Take a direct flight from Singapore to South Korea

The entry ban has been lifted effective August 10, 2020. South Korea has lifted restrictions on the arrival of those from China’s Hubei province and those using passports issued in Hubei province.

Nationals of 90 countries remain ineligible for the visa waiver program and will have to obtain a visa before traveling to South Korea. This is in response to these countries imposing entry restrictions on South Korean nationals due to COVID-19. The 90 countries are:

Antigua and Barbuda / Argentina / Austria / Australia / Bahamas / Bahrain / Belgium / Bosnia and Herzegovina / Botswana / Brazil / Brunei / Bulgaria / Canada / Chile / Colombia / Costa Rica / Croatia / Cyprus / Czech Republic / Denmark / Dominican Republic / Ecuador / El Salvador / Estonia / Eswatini /Fiji / Finland / France / Germany / Greece / Grenada / Guatemala / Haiti / Honduras / Hong Kong / Hungary / Iceland / Israel / Italy / Jamaica / Japan / Kazakhstan / Kiribati / Kuwait / Latvia / Lesotho / Liechtenstein / Lithuania / Luxembourg / Macau / Malaysia / Marshall Islands / Mauritius / Micronesia / Montenegro / Morocco / Nauru / Netherlands / New Zealand / Norway / Oman / Panama / Paraguay / Peru / Poland / Portugal / Qatar / Romania / Russia / Saint Lucia / Samoa / Saudi Arabia / Serbia / Seychelles / Singapore / Slovakia / Solomon Islands / South Africa / Spain / Suriname / Sweden / Switzerland / Taiwan / Thailand / Tonga / Trinidad and Tobago / Tunisia / Turkey / Tuvalu / UAE / Uruguay

All C1 and C3 visas issued by a South Korean consulate/embassy before April 5, 2020, whose holders did not enter South Korea by April 9, 2020, are deemed canceled.

Holders of such visas should contact their nearest embassy or consulate to inquire about re-applying.

The visa-free program for Chinese nationals in Jeju island has been suspended.
All visas issued by the Korean Consulate in Wuhan; China before February 4, 2020, have been invalidated.

All South Korean visas already issued by South Korean consulates in Japan as of March 9, 2020, will be deemed canceled. Note that the Alien Registration Cards (ARCs) of Japanese nationals already residing and working in South Korea will not be canceled.

All ARC holders except A1, A2, A3, and F4 visa holders must obtain a Re-entry Permit before leaving South Korea. Those that fail to do so will have their ARC deregistered. ARC holders can apply for the Re-entry Permit at the district immigration office before their departure date. They must make an appointment online at www.hikorea.go.kr. They can also apply at the immigration office at the airport on their departure date. Beginning in mid-June, they can also apply online at www.hikorea.go.kr. The fee is KRW 30,000.

Most ARC holders returning to South Korea must present a medical certificate in English or Korean issued by any local clinic or hospital in the 48 hours before they board their flight to South Korea. A1, A2, A3, and F4 visa holders and those who obtained a Medical Examination Exemption Certificate before departure (see below) are exempt from the requirement. The medical certificate must include the date of the examination; the presence/absence specifically of fever, cough, chills, headache, muscle pain, difficulty breathing, and other pulmonary symptoms; and the signature of the examining medical professional. A COVID-19 test result is not required, although a medical certificate with a negative COVID-19 test result would also be acceptable.

ARC holders (except A1, A2, A3, and F4 visa holders) who do not have a medical certificate will not be permitted to board their flight to South Korea unless they have a Medical Examination Exemption Certificate. ARC holders who will leave South Korea for no more than three weeks to conduct business activities, journalism, or academic activities are eligible to apply for a Medical Examination Exemption Certificate when they apply for their Re-entry Permit before departing South Korea.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

As of October 28, 2021, travelers applying for a quarantine exemption certificate will be required to apply through the portal Consular Services 24 only. Previously, applications were also accepted via email. Applications should be submitted between ten-20 days prior to departure. Travelers will be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test result issued within 72 hours prior to departure to South Korea.

As of July 1, 2021, all persons who are fully vaccinated against COVID outside of South Korea and entering South Korea for purposes of a business, visiting immediate family members, academics, or in the public interest are eligible for quarantine exemption.

An application for exemption still needs to be submitted to the appropriate South Korean mission having jurisdiction at the applicant’s location and is eligible to:

• Persons who have received the full schedule of WHO-approved COVID vaccines (Chinese and Russian vaccines exempt); Confirming whether this also includes the single-dose vaccine from Jansen/JJ.
• Persons must have received their final vaccination no less than 14 days prior to entry departure for SK.
• The new policy to allow persons who are fully vaccinated for COVID to apply for quarantine exemption is designed ostensibly for Korean family members to visit immediate family members in South Korea and avoid quarantine. Previously family members could only apply for quarantine exemption in the event of a death in the family.
• For business travelers – even if a person is fully vaccinated they will still need to apply for the quarantine exemption under the same process as the IEC (Isolation Exemption Certificate) although the required documentation is different from that required for non-vaccinated persons. Namely, an application submitted by the Korean entity to MOFA in South Korea and a concurrent application sent to the applicable SK consulate by the applicant.
• Persons with visa waiver status intending to enter South Korea for reasons related to important business can also apply for the IEC although it is advised to confirm with the SK consulate where the IEC application will be submitted as to their acceptance.
• However, the government has decided not to grant quarantine exemption benefits to persons entering from 13 countries where the mutant virus is prevalent, namely South Africa (South Africa), Brazil, Malawi, Botswana, Mozambique, Tanzania, Eswatini, Zimbabwe, Bangladesh, Equatorial Guinea, Suriname, Paraguay, and Chile.

Note: This application for the exception is different from the current IEC (Isolation Exemption Certificate) application process insofar as, 1) there is no petition to the local authorities (KITA) required to be submitted by a Korean entity and, 2) persons entering Korea for reasons of visiting immediate family are now allowed approval for quarantine exemption.

Foreign nationals arriving from Bangladesh, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, the Philippines, and Uzbekistan must present a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test certificate showing that they tested negative for COVID-19. They must have two tests conducted at one of the local hospitals designated by the South Korean Embassy. The first test must be conducted within 48 hours before they submit their visa application to the South Korean Embassy. The second test must be conducted within 48 hours before boarding their flight to South Korea. Foreign nationals arriving from other countries must present a medical certificate confirming that they do not have any suspected Covid19 symptoms. The medical exam must be conducted at any local hospital within 48 hours before they submit their visa application to the South Korean Embassy.

All travelers arriving in South Korea are subject to a no-cost COVID-19 test and may also be subject to a 14-day quarantine. All travelers must install the Korea Centers for Disease Control (KCDC) “home quarantine safety protection” app on their mobile phones or be deported. Travelers must use the app to report their health status and any symptoms during their first two weeks in the country.

The immigration officers at the airport will provide further details. Further requirements depend on the traveler’s status in South Korea and their boarding location, as follows:

• Travelers who obtained an Isolation Exemption Certificate before arriving in South Korea will be tested for COVID-19 upon arrival at the airport and will not be required to isolate if their test is negative.
• Short-term visa holders, visa-free travelers, and long-term visa holders coming to apply for an ARC who do not yet have a residence in South Korea: These travelers will be tested for COVID-19 at the airport upon arrival. They must stay at a government-designated quarantine facility for their first 14 days in the country and will be tested again before the end of their quarantine.
• South Korean citizens and ARC holders coming from the US/Europe and long-term visa holders coming from the US/Europe who have a residence in South Korea: These travelers must be tested within three days of arrival at the district public health center serving their residential address. They must self-isolate at their residence for 14 days after arrival.
• South Korean citizens and ARC holders coming from other countries and long-term visa holders coming from other countries who have a residence in South Korea: These travelers must be tested within 14 days of arrival at the district public health center serving their residential address. They must self-isolate at their residence for 14 days after arrival.

Those required to quarantine must generally not leave their quarantine location for 14 days. If they need to leave to obtain essential supplies or services, they must notify their local public health center by phone. They must also notify their local public health center via phone if they have any COVID-19 symptoms during their quarantine period.

Severe penalties apply to those who do not follow the government’s quarantine and other requirements, including up to three years in prison, a fine of up to 20 million Won, visa and ARC cancellation, deportation, and/or ban from re-entry. Government officers will conduct on-site inspections of longtime foreign residents and stiffen the punishment for those who present false addresses. If residences registered by inbound foreign nationals are unfit for self-quarantine (do not have a separate room and separate bathroom for those under quarantine), they will be placed in a dedicated quarantine facility.

Foreign arrivals who confirmed to be Covid-19 positive and violated quarantine rules will be responsible, in full, for all hospital and treatment costs. Those who tested positive but did not violate any quarantine rules will fall under the principle of reciprocity that South Korea has with their home country.

ARC holders, paying national health insurance fees to the South Korean government, confirmed to be Covid19 positive after returning to South Korea, will not inquire in any hospital or treatment costs as these will be covered by the South Korean government.

ARC holders and/or foreign visitors who are confirmed to be Covid19 positive while staying in South Korea due to local infections will not inquire in any hospital or treatment costs as these will be covered by the South Korean government.

Note that returning ARC holders are required to self-isolate for 14 days–a Medical Examination Exemption Certificate does not exempt the holder from the isolation requirement.

Status of Government Services

All visa applicants at South Korean consulates and embassies worldwide must undergo an interview and a medical exam at a designated hospital in their country of residence within 48 hours of submitting the visa application. Exact requirements, processes, and exemptions will vary by consulate/embassy so applicants should check with the relevant consulate/embassy before applying.

All foreign nationals applying for South Korean visas at a South Korean consulate in China must fill out a “Health Report Form.”

All foreign nationals applying for South Korean visas at a South Korean consulate in Japan will need to complete a “Health Report Form” which will be available on the websites of Japan’s South Korean embassy and consulates once it has been released. Visa processing times at South Korean consulates in Japan will be longer than previously, likely at least 14 days, as this is the incubation period of the coronavirus.

Concessions

Holders of B-1/B-2 visas-on-arrival or C-3/C-4 visas who cannot leave South Korea because of canceled flights are granted a 30-day extension. Further extensions may be possible.

Holders of long-term visas and Alien Registration Cards (ARCs) that are due to expire between July 19, 2021, and September 30, 2021, will automatically have their visa or ARC extended for 90 days. Foreign nationals do not need to take any action to validate the extension.

Temporary non-essential travel restrictions from third countries to the EU and Schengen-associated countries are extended until June 30, 2021. There are exceptions for the vaccination of foreign nationals. Land borders to enter Spain through Ceuta and Melilla will be maintained temporarily closed.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Travel restrictions are currently maintained with Brazil and South Africa until June 22, 2021, with the exemption of Spanish, Andorran citizens and residents in Spain; travelers transiting through Spain to a non-Schengen country with a less than a 24-hour stop and not exiting the transit area of the Spanish airport; state flights, search and rescue services; flights with a stop in the Spanish territory for non-commercial purposes, to reach a final destination; cargo, ferry, humanitarian, medical and emergency flights; and aeronautic staff required to undertake air transport business.

Land border controls with Portugal are extended until June 1, 2021 due to the health crisis as result of the Covid-19, except for: Spanish nationals, their spouses, partners while their relationship is registered, dependents in the ascending or descending line provided they travel with them or to join them; Legal residents in Spain, evidencing their regular residence, as well as students undertaking studies in Spain; Residents in other Member States or Schengen Associated States travelling to their regular residence place duly evidenced; Those transiting Spain or will remain in Spain for labor reasons only, including cross-border workers, health and transport workers; Travelers evidencing grounds of force majeure, need for humanitarian reasons, Foreign staff being members of the diplomatic missions, consular offices, international organizations based in Spain, provided their mobility is related to the performance of official duties; Travelers taking part of State travels, law-enforcement agencies, Air forces to undertake their duties.

Temporary restriction by land to the Schengen area through the entrance control point at Gibraltar continues. The restriction is maintained except for:

• Legal residents in Gibraltar, regardless of their nationality, while the reciprocity principle applied with respect to the entry in Gibraltar of the residents in the region of El Campo de Gibraltar.
• Persons providing documentary evidence of grounds of force majeure or in need or whose entry is allowed for humanitarian reasons.

Spain will continue to deny entry to travelers seeking entry from outside of the EU/Schengen Area unless they belong to one of the following categories:

• Residents of EU/Schengen countries, Andorra, Monaco, Vatican City (Holy See), or San Marino who are traveling to their country of residence, with documentary evidence;
• Holders of a long-term visa issued by an EU/Schengen Member State to which they are traveling;
• Healthcare or eldercare professionals undertaking their work activity;
• Those engaged in the transport of goods; sea and flight crew required to carry out air transport activities.
• Members of diplomatic missions, consular posts, international and military organizations, and civil protection and humanitarian organizations, for the performance of their official duties;
• Students undertaking their studies in EU or the Schengen Member States, with the corresponding visa or permit and medical coverage, provided they are traveling to the country where they study, and they enter during the academic year or 15 days before it begins;
• Highly qualified employees with evidence that their employment is mandatory and cannot be postponed or performed remotely;
• Persons traveling for urgent family reasons;
• Persons who can evidence force majeure or other necessity, or whose entry is permitted on humanitarian grounds;
• Residents of Australia, Israel, Japan, China (subject to reciprocity), Hong Kong, Macao, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, United Kingdom, and Northern Ireland traveling directly from these countries, transiting through these countries, or transiting through international airports located in countries not included in the list. Spain will review this list on a bi-weekly basis, and it is subject to change.

Third-country nationals are allowed to enter Spain with a valid travel document and an expired residence card if they are holders of a temporary residence permit, work permit, or stay permit for study purposes, student mobility, internship, or volunteer services under the general immigration framework or Entrepreneurs’ Act; holders of a residence card as a dependent family member of an EU national; or holders of a residence card based on an extended long-term residence permit.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

As of May 4, 2021, the quarantine period has been lifted for travelers coming from Brazil, Republic of Botswana, Union of Comoros, Republic of Ghana, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Mozambique, United Republic of Tanzania, Republic of Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe, Republic of Peru, Republic of Colombia, and South Africa.

Until May 29, 2021, all travelers arriving from India are required to quarantine for 10 days upon arrival.

Travelers arriving in Spain by air or sea are subject to health checks, including temperature monitoring, and visual inspection of the traveler’s health status. Current list of countries considered as areas of risk whose travelers are required to undertake an RT-PCR and/or TMA test within 72 hours prior to their arrival to Spain. Children under 6 years old are not required to undertake the COVID-19 test. Negative test results should be presented in Spanish, French, English, or German. If the test is issued in another language a translation shall be provided.

The following red countries list will be effective until April 25, 2021: DENOMINACIÓN

All travelers are required to fill out a form prior to arrival which will facilitate the evaluation of their status in relation to COVID-19 and provide contact details for contact tracing purposes, should this be necessary. Travelers can complete the form online at www.spth.gob.es or via the free application SPAIN TRAVEL HEALTH-SPTH. Once the form is completed, travelers will receive a code to provide during their health check on arrival in Spain.

Status of Government Services

Online filing is available for many applications.

Immigration offices have reopened and are providing in-person services by appointment. Currently, most processes require an appointment, and the authorities are both rescheduling appointments that were canceled during the state of alarm when most immigration offices were closed and scheduling new appointments. This is resulting in a shortage of appointments and there are reports that the online appointment scheduling system is being hacked. This matter has been raised to the relevant authorities.

Some consulates are open, with openings and closures depending on the COVID-19-related measures taken in each country. Please contact the relevant consulate for information on its status and service offerings.

Concessions

The authorities have advised that foreign nationals whose permits/cards are automatically extended can travel to their country of origin and back to Spain, provided they re-enter Spain before December 21, 2020, without applying for a re-entry permit before traveling. However, there is a risk that the airlines will not be aware of this practice and will not let the traveler board their return flight to Spain. Accordingly, affected travelers should consult with their immigration professionals before traveling.

This automatic extension no longer applies to HQS work permits, standard work permits, corporate employment permits, or patents (if the patent expires between March 15 and December 15, 2020, it is possible to apply for its renewal without leaving Russia). Holders of these documents and their employers are required to apply for an extension using the standard process.

Holders of business, guest, tourist, private and technical visas will have to leave Russia once the 276-day grace period expires unless they can find an employer and apply for a work permit and work visa by December 15, 2020.

Foreign nationals with work visas expiring between March 15 and December 15, 2020, can apply for an extension; although applications for work visa extensions are being accepted now, provided the work permit has been extended (work permit extension applications are also being accepted now).

The period between March 15 and December 15, 2020, will not be counted toward the six-month stay limit abroad applicable to participants of state programs for relocation of compatriots living abroad, TRP and PRP holders, and foreign nationals subject to administrative removal or deportation will not be required to depart during this period.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Beginning November 15, 2021, fully vaccinated travelers from Armenia will be exempt from the current entry ban and testing requirements when traveling to Sweden.

Beginning November 8, 2021, residents from the countries of Argentina, Colombia, Namibia and Peru will be permitted to enter Sweden beginning November 8, 2021, so long as they can provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test upon entry into the country.

Entry restrictions will be extended until November 30, 2021, for travelers from countries in the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA). Travelers from countries in the EU and EEA will be required to present the EU Digital COVID Certificate or a corresponding certificate demonstrating that they have either been vaccinated against COVID-19, tested negative within 72 hours prior to arrival, or recovered from COVID-19 in the last six months. Travelers from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and Norway are not subject to the entry restrictions and are not required to present any certificate when entering Sweden.

Entry restrictions will be extended until January 31, 2022, for travelers from countries outside of the EU and EEA. Travelers wishing to enter Sweden from a country outside of the EU and EEA must be covered by one of the exemptions from the entry restriction and must present a negative COVID-19 test result. Some exemptions include residing in an exempt country or holding a vaccine certificate from an approved country.

Travelers who can present a vaccination certificate issued in the US are exempt from the entry ban and testing requirements beginning November 5, 2021. Travelers who can present a vaccine certificate issued in Guernsey, Isle of Man, or Jersey are exempt from entry restrictions. As of October 11, 2021, travelers who can present a vaccination certificate issued in the United Kingdom are also exempt from entry restrictions.

Beginning October 19, 2021, the Swedish government will exempt residents of Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from the current entry ban placed on many non-EU countries. When entering Sweden, Bahrain and the UAE residents will still be required to present proof of a negative COVID-19 test result.

Beginning October 11, 2021, travelers who can present a vaccination certificate issued in the United Kingdom are exempt from the entry ban and test requirements when traveling directly to Sweden.

Effective September 23, 2021, travelers who hold a vaccination certificate issued from Albania, Andorra, the Faroe Islands, Israel, Morocco, and Panama are exempt from the current entry ban and test requirements.

Entry from within the EU/Schengen Area and the UK is allowed.

Until May 31, 2021, travelers from outside the EU/Schengen Area and the UK are banned from entering except nationals and residents of EU/Schengen Area countries, the UK, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City and their dependents; highly qualified workers, if their employment is economically necessary and the work cannot be postponed or performed abroad; holders of Swedish visas and residence permits and their dependents; residents of Algeria, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, Montenegro, Morocco, New Zealand, Rwanda, Serbia, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia and Uruguay; those providing essential services; students; travelers in transit; the staff of international organizations; military personnel; and those with urgent family reasons.

Foreign nationals with new Swedish permits are advised not to enter Sweden until after the travel restrictions have ended, as they might not be admitted.

Border checks are in place at crossings from Norway and Finland and on the Sweden side of the Öresund Bridge between Sweden and Denmark.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Sweden has not imposed any quarantine or COVID-19 testing requirements.

Status of Government Services

The Swedish Migration Agency has decided that applications for visas for Sweden should generally be rejected, as long as the entry ban remains in place. However, those exempted from the entry ban who require visas will be eligible to obtain them.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

• Citizens of Switzerland;
• Holders of Swiss residence permits;
• Cross-border workers;
• Those entering from Schengen countries;
• Travelers transiting through Switzerland;
• Third-country national workers who have a Swiss work permit;
• Nationals of EU/EFTA countries with a Swiss employment contract signed before March 25, 2020 and a lease agreement valid on or before April 1, 2020;
• Travelers entering for family reunification;
• Students of any nationality to start, continue or complete their studies provided the education/training lasts 90 days or longer;
• Third-country nationals who will not work, such as retirees, staying for longer than 90 days; and
• Others with a pressing need to enter.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Status of Government Services

Concessions

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Effective November 1, 2021, travelers arriving from low-risk countries will no longer be required to quarantine at a government facility, but instead, will be required to quarantine at a quarantine hotel or group quarantine facility at their own expense for the first ten days after arrival. The remaining four days of quarantine can be completed at a home residence.

Upon arrival these travelers will be required to:

• Undergo a PCR test upon arrival
• Undergo an additional PCR test between days nine and ten of quarantine at a hospital or location designated by the local government. Arrangements for either of the options must be made with the local government
• If the test is negative, on day 11 travelers may take a quarantine taxi home or go to the residence of a friend or family member to undergo the final three days of quarantine
• Take PCR on day 13 of the quarantine

These above-mentioned quarantine requirements will remain in place until 14 Feb. 2021.

Effective November 17, 2021, citizens of Taiwan are eligible to enter Taiwan after departing from any international travel port. Upon arrival Taiwanese citizens will be required to:

• Submit a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test that was taken 3 working days prior to departure
• Undergo a 14-day quarantine upon arrival. All travelers are required to arrange quarantine accommodations prior to arrival and must follow all regulations and instructions given by the Taiwan Center for Disease Control

Foreign nationals that hold an Alien Residence Card (ARC) are eligible to enter Taiwan for all purposes. Migrant workers that hold an ARC must also hold a re-entry permit. Foreign nationals who do not hold an ARC are permitted to enter if they have obtained permission for emergency or humanitarian reasons, are the spouse or underage child of a Taiwan national, or are a student and have obtained permission from the Ministry of Education. Upon arrival these travelers will be required to:

• Submit a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test that was taken 3 working days prior to departure
• Undergo a 14-day quarantine upon arrival. All travelers are required to arrange quarantine accommodations prior to arrival and must follow all regulations and instructions given by the Taiwan Center for Disease Control

Updated August 27, 2021, and until further notice, Non-ROC nationals without a valid Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) are banned from entry to Taiwan. Exceptions may be made for individuals who obtain entry permission for emergency or humanitarian reasons. Transit travelers will be temporarily barred from entry. Travelers with visitor or residence visas are also banned from entering Taiwan until further notice.

Foreign nationals who do not hold an ARC may apply to enter Taiwan for all purposes except tourism, general social visits, and study. General social visits refer to attending events that are open to the public, with no specific contact or responsible person; visiting friends; attending a wedding; attending sporting events, concerts, or performances; participating in festivals and cultural activities; etc. Most foreign nationals will need to apply for a Special Entry Permit from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in their country of residence. Those normally eligible for visa-free entry may still qualify for such entry but will need to present specific documents at the port of entry. Please contact your immigration professional for more information and assistance with the application/entry process.

Hong Kong and Macao residents may enter Taiwan for certain purposes provided they hold an entry permit, including special humanitarian reasons or emergency situations (e.g., bereavement or family member with a critical illness); to fulfill contractual obligations and as part of internal transfers within multinational enterprises. Hong Kong and Macao residents who hold an ARC may enter if they are the spouse or child of a ROC national, or for commercial and trade exchanges (e.g., holders of an ARC related to employment, investment, or entrepreneurship).

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Foreign nationals and Hong Kong and Macao residents who have received permission to enter Taiwan must present a certificate in English confirming a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within three days before boarding when checking in for their flight to Taiwan.

Diplomats, those providing humanitarian assistance, those entering for emergency situations, and crew members of vessels arriving in Taiwan are exempt from this requirement.

Travelers who are admitted must generally undergo a mandatory 14-day home quarantine upon entry.

However, short-term business travelers who qualify to enter Taiwan, who will stay in Taiwan for less than three months, who will conduct only approved business activities (e.g., after-sales service, technical guidance, and training, contract signing), who are traveling from a country with low risk of infection (New Zealand, Australia, Macau, Palau, Fiji, Brunei, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Thailand, Mongolia, Bhutan) or low-to-medium risk of infection (South Korea, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore) according to the CDC, and who have not been outside of these countries in the 14 days before boarding their flight to Taiwan, are eligible to apply for a shortened quarantine period. They should prepare all relevant supporting documents, including an itinerary and an epidemic prevention plan, for inclusion with their application for a Special Entry Permit from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the country of residence. They must have a medical report with a negative PCR test result for COVID-19 issued within 3 days before boarding their flight. For travelers who do not meet the above requirements, if there are critical business needs, a special case can be submitted. The list of low and low-to-medium-risk countries will be reviewed regularly and revised as needed. Please contact your immigration professional for more information and assistance with the application process.

Those on a home quarantine are strictly forbidden from leaving their home or other places of accommodation for 14 days. They will receive health checks from the local health authorities twice daily. Penalties for noncompliance with home quarantine rules include mandatory medical isolation and fines ranging from NT$100,000 to NT$1,000,000 under the Communicable Disease Control Act.

All travelers to Taiwan should use their mobile phones to log into the Quarantine System for Entry (https://hdhq.mohw.gov.tw) prior to boarding their flight to Taiwan and fill out a health declaration form. This will facilitate the immigration process at the port of entry as well as community prevention measures following entry.

Status of Government Services

As of July 26, 2021, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to halt the processing of visa applications. Entry will also be suspended for foreign nationals holding a valid visitor visa or resident visa.

Foreign nationals that require entry to Taiwan due to an emergency or humanitarian issue, such as attending a funeral or visiting a critically ill family member, must receive special permission from the CECC before applying for a special entry permit visa from the Taiwan offices in their home country.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Beginning November 1, 2021, fully vaccinated travelers arriving via airway from the following countries will be exempt from quarantine: Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Bhutan, Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Laos, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Sri Lanka, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Vietnam, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.

Thailand has extended its state of emergency until September 30, 2021, under which it has banned most travel into the country by land, sea, or air with exceptions for:

Guests of the Government; Members of diplomatic missions or international organizations or representatives of foreign governmental agencies; Spouse, father, mother, children of a Thai citizen; Holder of Certificate of Residence (Permanent Residence) issued by the Royal Thai Police Immigration Bureau; Holder of a valid Work Permit, including spouse and children; Carriers of necessary goods, subject to immediate return after completion; Crew members on a mission; ED Visa holder; Patients (not COVID-19 patients) who need certain types of medical treatment in Thailand; Non-Thai nationals who are permitted to enter Thailand under a special arrangement or have been granted by the Prime Minister; Former Thai Citizens; Court appearance; Transit Passengers; Religious/Missionary work with work permit; Volunteers or Non-Governmental organization worker (NGO); Approved Participants of Sport Activities/Tournaments; Visa Exemption Countries/Territories: Andora, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hongkong, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Kuwait, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, Sweden, UAE, UK, USA, Vietnam.

Travelers from other countries (not listed above) will need to obtain a visa before entering Thailand.

All travelers must obtain a Certificate of Entry (COE) issued by a Thai Embassy or Consulate, before departure and complete a 14-day Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) upon arrival in Thailand.

Nationals of Hong Kong, Italy, and South Korea are no longer eligible for a visa exemption and must apply for a consular visa to enter Thailand.

Nationals of Bulgaria, Bhutan, China (including Taiwan), Cyprus, Ethiopia, Fiji, Georgia, India, Kazakhstan, Malta, Mexico, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, and Vanuatu are temporarily no longer eligible for a visa on arrival and must apply for a consular visa to enter Thailand.

Foreign nationals with a critical need to return to Thailand who hold a valid work permit or has been authorized to work in Thailand can use a specific process to apply for admission. Please contact your immigration professional for more information and process details.

Phuket Sandbox Scheme

Effective July 1, 2021, the Phuket Sandbox program will permit Thais and Foreigners to travel from designated countries where they have resided in the designated country for at least 21 days before traveling to Phuket. Both direct and transit flights are allowed to enter Phuket under the Phuket Sandbox Scheme

All travelers must comply with all conditions below.

Pre-arrival:

• Travelers are advised to avoid at-risk areas or crowded places for no less than 14 days before their travel date.
• A foreigner who wishes to use the “Phuket Sandbox” scheme must be from countries/regions with a low to medium risk of the SAR-CoV-2 virus [as announced and constantly updated by the Thai Ministry of Public Health (MoPH)] and must reside in that country at least 21 days before travel to Phuket. The traveler must also be vaccinated and comply with all processes for entering Thailand the same as all other foreign travelers which include:
  • A vaccine certificate to prove that they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 no less than 14 days before, but no later than 1 year, from the travel date with a vaccine registered with the MoPH or approved by the World Health Organization (WHO).
  • Children under 18 years of age do not need to be vaccinated, but must travel with parents or guardians who have been vaccinated;
  • A valid visa;
  • A Certificate of Entry (COE) issued by the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate;
  • A COVID-19 health insurance policy with a minimum coverage of US$100,000 per traveler;
  • A medical certificate with an RT-PCR laboratory result indicating that COVID-19 was not detected and that was issued no more than 72 hours before departure;
  • Confirmation of booking (and receipt) for 14 nights in an Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA) Plus certified accommodation in Phuket. In the case that the length of stay is less than 14 days, travelers must present a confirmed flight ticket out of Thailand and payment confirmation for accommodation and receipt for the RT-PCR tests at hotels that cover their intended duration of stay;
  • A receipt of advanced payment for COVID-19 testing in Phuket.
• Travelers must undergo an exit screening before departure.

Post Arrival:

• Undergo Immigration and Customs procedures and a COVID-19 screening including RT-PCR tests:
  • Travelers on direct, non-stop flights to Phuket International Airport are subject to health screening and Immigration and Customs procedures at the point of entry.
  • If there is NO direct fight from overseas to Phuket, the travelers can also travel to Phuket on a transit flight (Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueng airport). However, they are subject to health screening and Immigration and Customs procedures twice (1st at the transit airport and 2nd at the Phuket airport).
• Download and install the ThailandPlus application and Morchana tracing application.
• This app must be kept on at all times as the foreigner moves to different locations around Phuket.
• Proceed directly to the reserved hotel on approved airport transfer service;
• Check-in at the pre-booked SHA Plus-certified accommodation establishment and stay there for no less than 14 nights;
• Undergo COVID-19 tests (RT-PCR method) at their own expense as per the following requirements:
  • Taking the first test upon arrival and awaiting the test results in the accommodation.
  • Taking additional RT-PCR tests as per the following requirements:
  • Travelers with a length of stay of fewer than 7 days are required to take another test on Day 6 or 7, or as per the MoPH’s guidelines.
  • Travelers with a length of stays between 10-14 days are required to take the second test on Day 6 or 7 and the third test on Day 12 or 13, or as per the MoPH’s guidelines.
• In the case that travelers test positive for COVID-19, travelers will be referred to specified healthcare facilities for medical treatment for which the expenses must be covered by the required insurance.
• If testing is negative for COVID-19, travelers can go anywhere in Phuket BUT they are required to return to the hotel every day and not allowed to stay overnight elsewhere.
• Engage in tourism activities or enjoy services in SHA Plus-certified venues and businesses under the DMHTTA precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19: D – Distancing, M – Mask wearing, H – Handwashing, T – Temperature check, T – Testing for COVID-19, and A – contact tracing application (ThailandPlus and MorChana).
• All travelers must stay in Phuket for 14 days before they can travel to other parts of Thailand except for those travelers who only plan to travel within Phuket without leaving for other provinces in Thailand or stay less than 14 days and are only permitted to depart Thailand by direct international flight from Thailand to the destination country.

Departure:

For traveling from Phuket to other Thai destinations, vaccinated international travelers are required to show a vaccine certificate, a medical certificate that they have tested negative for COVID-19 during their stay in Phuket, and a valid visa at the Phuket Airport.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The Phuket Sandbox Scheme is subject to the reduction of the number of travelers to the city OR being revoked at any time if the number of Covid-19 cases in Phuket reaches more than 90 cases within a week or there are more than 3 clusters or an explosion of Covid-19 cases in multiple areas.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

The government of Thailand announced that fully vaccinated foreign nationals, including returning citizens of Thailand, will be eligible to enter the country by air without undergoing quarantine requirements beginning Nov. 1, 2021. For a list of approved countries and territories click here.

Pre-Arrival

Prior to arrival in Thailand, travelers should ensure that they have been in an approved country/territory for 21 days or more and present proof of the following:

• A certificate of Entry or Thailand Pass
• A medical certificate with an RT-PCR laboratory result indicating that COVID-19 was not detected and that was issued no more than 72 hours before departure
• A COVID-19 health insurance policy with a minimum coverage of US$50,000 per traveler
• Confirmation of booking (and receipt) of at least 1 night in an Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA) Plus or certified accommodation
• A vaccine certificate to prove that they are Fully Vaccinated issued no less than 14 days prior to travel to Thailand with a vaccine registered with the MoPH or approved by the World Health Organization (WHO)
• Travelers accompanying unvaccinated children under 12-year-old must produce a Medicate Certificate with an RT-PCR laboratory result indicating that COVID-19 was not detected. The RT-PCR test must be taken no more than 72 hours before departure

Post-Arrival

After arrival, travelers must:

• Undergo Immigration and Customs procedures (Entry Screening) and declare the above documents
• Proceed directly to the reserved hotel or designated hospital for COVID-19 tests (RT-PCR method)
• Undergo additional RT-PCR testing on day six or seven or as directed by the MoPH
• Download and install the ThailandPlus application and Morchana tracing application. This app must be kept on at all times as the foreigner moves to different locations in Thailand

On October 1, 2021, the Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) will be reduced from 14 days to 7 days for fully vaccinated international travelers. Fully vaccinated travelers must:

• Be fully vaccinated with a vaccine approved by Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) or the World Health Organization (WHO)
• Have been fully vaccinated for 14 days prior to the date of arrival
• Present a vaccination certificate (original or printed copy) at the point of entry into Thailand
• Undergo two RT-PCR tests during the mandatory quarantine. The first test is to be taken on days 0-1 of entry, and the second before finishing the quarantine period on days 6-7

International travelers arriving by air who have not been vaccinated, are without a vaccine certificate, or only partially vaccinated will be required to:

• Undergo a 10-day quarantine
• Undergo two RT-PCR tests. One upon arrival on days 0-1, and the second on days 8-9

International travelers arriving by land who have not been vaccinated, are without a vaccine certificate, or only partially vaccinated will be required to:

• Undergo 14-day quarantine
• Undergo two RT-PCR tests. One upon arrival on days 0-1, and the second on days 12-13

On May 1, 2021, the Centre of COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) has announced the extension of the quarantine period for all international travelers regardless of their nationalities or vaccination status in order to reduce the risk of local transmission of new COVID-19 variants in Thailand. The new regulation elevating the quarantine period to 14 days for all travelers entering Thailand, regardless of nationality and vaccination is as follows:

• Travelers who obtain their Certificate of Entry (COE) after May 1, 2021, must quarantine for at least 14 days upon arrival.
• Travelers who obtain their COE before May 1, 2021, must quarantine under these conditions:
  • Those arriving in Thailand between May 1-5 will quarantine as indicated on their COE (7-14 days)
  • Those arriving in Thailand from May 6 and afterward must quarantine for at least 14 days.

Quarantine Activities

Quarantined arrivals will be allowed to have more activities, according to the Health Restrictions, including fitness, access to outdoor exercise areas and swimming pools, controlled areas for cycling, and delivery orders.

Required Documents

Foreigners will no longer have to present a Fit to Fly Certificate; however, a COVID-19 PCR Test within 72 hours before the flight is still required.

To summarize, prior to entering Thailand, the Pre-Arrival requirement and Certificate of Entry (COE) are still required and remain unchanged. The only item that will be omitted and no longer required when applying for a COE is the “Fit to Fly Health Certificate issued within 72 hours before departure.” Effective April 1, 2021, the following documents shall be required in order to obtain a COE from a Thai Embassy.

• A completed and signed “Declaration Form” obtained from the Thai Embassy
• A medical certificate with a laboratory result indicating that COVID-19 is not detected by the RT-PCR method within 72 hours before departure
• A copy of a Health Insurance Policy with at least USD 100,000 coverage for COVID-19 in Thailand

Upon arrival in Thailand, foreign nationals must fulfill the post-arrival requirement of a 10-day quarantine (Except those who depart from countries with new COVID variants, the 14-day quarantine will remain) in a government-designated Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) at their own expense and comply with all health regulations under Thailand’s Emergency Decree.

Status of Government Services

Given the State Emergency Decree has been extended to July 31, 2021, the Immigration Bureau has subsequently implemented to continue allowing foreigners who are stranded in Thailand and cannot leave to be able to continue staying in the country (this scheme of visa was previously announced to be ended and implemented only until May 29). Foreigners in all types of visa holder categories shall be eligible to apply for 60 days COVID visa extension until September 27, 2021, provided that they are qualified based on the requirements set by the Immigration Bureau.

Government agencies are operating with reduced staff and processing delays are to be expected.

Applicants for visas at Thai embassies may need to submit a medical certificate with their application. Applicants should check with the relevant embassy before applying.

The Board of Investment (BOI) will not accept online work permit applications from foreign nationals until they have been self-quarantined for at least 14 days after their arrival in Thailand.

Urgent Work Permit (UWP) and Standard Work Permit (SWP) processing is suspended until further notice. Employers who urgently need a foreign national to start work can request special approval before submitting the SWP application.

Concessions

The Thai Immigration Authority will allow foreign nationals whose travel plans have been impacted by the coronavirus and who wish to extend their stay in Thailand to apply for visa extensions. Foreign nationals must first contact their embassy in Thailand to request a confirmation letter, then file a visa extension request that includes the letter with the Immigration Authority.

All foreign nationals staying in Thailand whose visas or visa-exemption status have expired on or after March 26, 2020, will have their visas automatically extended until July 31, 2020.
Foreign nationals whose 90-day reports are due on or after March 26, 2020, do not need to report until July 31, 2020.

Holders of Border Passes may stay in Thailand for the time being but must leave within seven days of the border crossing opening.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

June 11th, 2021, the Interior Ministry issued a statement that land borders have reopened, however, note that certain specific land borders may have particular restrictions. Also though the land borders with Greece, Bulgaria, Iraq, and Syria technically physically open, note restrictions related to entry to those countries likely exist. Please check with the specific land border authority of the destination country for the most up-to-date rules.

When entering Turkey from countries not included in the lists below, travelers will not be required to submit a negative PCR test result if they submit a document issued by the relevant country’s official authorities stating that they have been vaccinated at least 14 days before the entrance to Turkey and/or have had the disease and recovered within the last 6 months.

If the traveler has not complied with the vaccination requirements, those seeking entry into Turkey must have a negative PCR test result obtained within 72 hours of flight departure to Turkey. This requirement is regardless of nationality, so includes Turkish nationals. The only exceptions to this rule are for travelers less than 6 years old, true transit passengers (passengers who will reboard an onward flight without leaving a Turkish airport), certain sailors (crewmembers), and certain truck drivers. Digital (online) proof of PCR test result is acceptable.

Random PCR Testing upon Entry: Except for travelers departing from the countries listed below, those entering Turkey may be randomly subjected to a PCR test at their destination. Passengers will be allowed to go to their final destination after the test samples are taken, and if the test results are positive, they will be treated in accordance with Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health COVID-19 guidelines. Travelers with positive random test results will be quarantined for 14 days at the addresses they shared and if the PCR test results to be made at the end of the 10th day are negative, the quarantine conditions will be terminated. The quarantine conditions of those who are found to have an Indian variant will be terminated with a negative result of the PCR test at the end of the 14th day.

Country-based Restriction Lists:

(i) Flights from Bangladesh, Brazil, South Africa, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka are suspended until further notice. Direct flights to Turkey from these countries are not permitted.

(ii) Passengers to Turkey who have been in Bangladesh, Brazil, South Africa, India, Nepal, or Sri Lanka in the last 14 days, must submit a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival and must be quarantined* for 14 days in locations to be determined by the Governorships. If the PCR test result to be made at the end of the 14th day of the quarantine is negative, the quarantine measure will be terminated. Passengers whose PCR test result is positive will be taken into isolation as soon as the positive test result is received and the measure will be terminated with a negative PCR test result which will be made at the end of the 14th day.

(iii) Passengers arriving from Afghanistan and Pakistan and passengers who have been to these countries in the last 14 days are required to stay under quarantine* for 10 days. If the PCR test result to be made at the end of the 7th day of the quarantine is negative, the quarantine measure will be terminated. If the test results are positive, they will be treated in accordance with the Covid-19 guidelines of the Ministry of Health.

Turkish citizens entering Turkey must also submit a document showing vaccination at least 14 days before arrival in Turkey and/or that they had recovered from the disease in the last six months (starting on the 28th day of the first positive PCR test) and those who can submit the result of a negative PCR test or rapid antigen test (performed within the last 48 hours) in the last 72 hours prior to arrival to Turkey are allowed to enter.

Please consult the Turkish Airlines website as changes are implemented very quickly:
https://www.turkishairlines.com/en-tr/announcements/coronavirus-outbreak/travel-restrictions

Turkish Airlines reopened most domestic routes. Note these plans are subject to change so please contact the airlines directly. Note the destinations and schedule of domestic and international flights may change without notice.

HES CODE & TURKEY ENTRANCE FORM REQUIREMENTS

The Ministry of Health also requires each Turkish resident passenger to purchase a ticket for a domestic flight in Turkey to obtain a personalized HES code (Hayat Eve Sigar). The code relates to tracking in the event of exposure to COVID. Details related to obtaining this code from the E-devlet system may be found at the following link:
https://www.turkishairlines.com/en-tr/announcements/coronavirus-outbreak/hes-code

Additionally, as of March 15th, 2021, those seeking to enter Turkey must fill out a form that will be used for contact tracing (similar to HES Codes). International travelers (not including transit passengers and passengers under age 6) are required to fill in the Turkey Entrance Form within 72 hours of departure, which can be obtained from the following link:
https://register.health.gov.tr

Before boarding, travelers must show a printout or present a mobile screenshot of the filled form to the airline crew.

AIRPORT ARRIVAL REQUIREMENTS

Note the Directorate General of Civil Aviation announced that certain flight restrictions apply for arrivals to Turkey. Passengers are required to abide by the following procedures:

• All passengers are required to wear masks at the airport and during flights.
• All passengers must complete the passenger information form when arriving in Turkey.
• All passengers will undergo a medical examination and those showing symptoms will have tests performed.
• Passengers with a positive test result will be taken to undergo medical treatment.
• Those individuals with a positive COVID test will be required to quarantine for 14 days. Those recorded to have been exposed to COVID-positive individuals will likely be contacted for a 10-day quarantine.

Vaccinated Travelers

When entering Turkey from countries that do not have travel restrictions, travelers will not be required to submit a negative PCR test result if they submit a document issued by the relevant country’s official authorities stating that they have been vaccinated at least 14 days before the entrance to Turkey and/or have had the disease and recovered within the last 6 months.

If the traveler has not complied with the vaccination requirements, those seeking entry into Turkey must have a negative PCR test result obtained within 72 hours of flight departure to Turkey. This requirement is regardless of nationality, so includes Turkish nationals. The only exceptions to this rule are for travelers less than 6 years old, true transit passengers (passengers who will reboard an onward flight without leaving a Turkish airport), certain sailors (crewmembers), and certain truck drivers. Digital (online) proof of PCR test result is acceptable.

Note: Some travelers entering Turkey may be randomly subjected to a PCR test at their destination. Passengers will be allowed to go to their final destination after the test samples are taken, and if the test results are positive, they will be treated in accordance with Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health COVID-19 guidelines.

Travelers with positive test results will be quarantined for 14 days at the addresses they shared and if the PCR test results to be made at the end of the 10th day are negative, the quarantine conditions will be terminated. The quarantine conditions of those who are found to have an Indian

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Quarantine for passengers arriving in Turkey who have been in Bangladesh, Brazil, South Africa, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, or Pakistan in the last 14 days, will be in dormitories determined by the Governorships or at accommodation facilities serving as quarantine facilities. The terms and conditions regarding the quarantine hotels, accommodation fees, transportation of the passengers from the borders, etc. will be set and announced by the Governorships.

(iv) Passengers arriving in Turkey from the United Kingdom, Iran, Egypt, and Singapore must present a negative PCR test result taken in the last 72 hours prior to arrival to Turkey.

Travelers entering Turkey from countries not listed under sections (ii), (ii), and (iv): Passengers who submitted a document issued by the relevant country’s official authorities showing that they had been vaccinated at least 14 days before their arrival in Turkey and/or that they had recovered from the disease in the last six months starting on the 28th day of the first positive PCR test are not requested to submit a PCR/rapid antigen test and they will not go under a quarantine. In case a certificate of vaccination or documents indicating that they have had/recovered from the virus is not presented, the result of a negative PCR test or rapid antigen test (performed within the last 48 hours) in the last 72 hours prior to arrival to Turkey from these countries must be submitted.

Status of Government Services

MIGRATION DIRECTORATE CHANGES & ANNOUNCEMENTS:

The Istanbul Migration Directorate has resumed in-person residence permit appointments. For MD locations outside Istanbul, please contact us for further details as many of those locations may have special procedures. Due to COVID, receiving RP appointments and RP cards are significantly delayed. Applicants must plan accordingly.

MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS STATUS:

Most Turkish consular posts around the world have reopened to full or partial capacity depending on local circumstances. Checking for the most up-to-date status for posts is imperative. Posts may consider only allowing visa filing by post or bonded courier (ie. No in-person applications), or restricting appointments to limited purposes.

MINISTRY OF LABOR STATUS:

The Ministry of Labor has implemented a requirement that all initial work permit applicants present a recent COVID test (PCR) or proof of vaccination for review. Applicants outside of Turkey can obtain the test results in their country of residence. Note that currently, renewal applicants or applicants of a change of status are not yet required to present a negative test result.

The MoL remains closed to the public for in-person queries.

Though that is the case, many officers are working from home. As a consequence, please be aware of a severe slow-down on work permit adjudications as seen by the online system. Cases appear to be taking longer to move through the steps of processing from upload to officer review, final approval, and card issuance. Please anticipate longer timelines.

Concessions

Foreign nationals unable to leave Turkey due to travel restrictions will not be subject to overstay penalties if they leave the country within 30 days of the lifting of the travel restrictions.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

As of November 7, 2021, the Green List of countries, regions, and territories from which travelers can directly enter the UAE has been updated. Click here to view the updated list of countries.

As of September 29, 2021, the UAE will suspend flights from Nigeria until at least October 10, 2021. Travelers who have been or connected through Nigeria in the last 14 days will not be permitted to enter the UAE.

As of September 12, 2021, Fully vaccinated travelers from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Namibia, Zambia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, Sierra Leone, South African, Nigeria, and Afghanistan, who hold valid UAE residence visas may return to the UAE.

As of August 30, 2021, the Emirati government will begin accepting applications for tourist visas for individuals from any country, so long as they are fully vaccinated.

Any individual arriving on a tourist visa will be required to take a PCR test upon arrival at the airport. All health protocols will remain the same and unvaccinated individuals are not allowed to apply for a tourist visa.

Vaccinated individuals must have received a vaccine approved by the World Health Organization. For information on the AL Hosn app or check here for additional information.

As of August 12, 2021, travelers from India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Uganda are banned from entering the country until further notice. However, travelers with UAE residence visas will be permitted entry if having traveled through these countries and meet the following requirements:

• Visa holders have pre-entry approval authorized by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs
• Travelers hold a valid PCR test certificate conducted within 48 hours of departure
• Travelers conduct a rapid PCR test within 4 hours of their departure
• Travelers conduct a PCR test upon arrival in Dubai

Citizens of the UAE are exempt from quarantine and are not required to present a COVID-19 vaccination certificate to enter Dubai

Vaccinated travelers arriving from “green-listed” countries are allowed to enter the country without needing to quarantine upon arrival. Vaccinated travelers from “green-listed” countries will only need to take a PCR test upon arrival and again on day six; both tests must show a negative result.

Effective March 02, 2021, new visas are temporarily suspended for applicants outside of the UAE both in DMCC and DDA until further notice. Shareholders, students, and applicants above 50 years old are excluded from this announcement, and they can still apply for the visa.

Resident permit holders who are outside the UAE are allowed to enter again.

For UAE residents flying into airports in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, there will be no need to apply for pre-approval to enter. This is applicable for UAE residents with residency issued from any of the seven Emirates. However, GDRFA approval requirements remain, for residents returning to Dubai airports – this is a separate application and is needed for all UAE residents who plan to fly into Dubai.

Returning citizens must register with the Twajudi service (ICA). A helpline has also been established (0097124965228 or 0097192083344) to assist Emiratis who are abroad.
Business visitors, tourists, and nationals of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are again allowed to enter.

Indian nationals may now travel to the UAE on visit visas.

Citizens and residents may now leave Abu Dhabi emirate without a permit and free movement within Abu Dhabi is now allowed without a permit. Those wishing to enter/reenter must present evidence of a negative COVID-19 test, which has replaced the move permit requirement. This can be done via the Al Hosn mobile app. Precautionary health measures will apply upon entry.

Emirates and Etihad Airlines have expanded their services to accommodate business travelers and tourists who are now allowed to enter.

UAE citizens, residents, and visitors, and those with expired or canceled visas are again permitted to travel abroad; however, it is not possible to travel to all destinations. Travelers should check with the airlines for flight availability and check the entry requirements in the destination country.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Precautionary Health measures introduced at the beginning of February 2021 will be extended until the start of Ramadan in mid-April.

Travelers who have been in or transited through South Africa or Nigeria in the last 14 days before traveling to Dubai will not be able to enter the country. This is not applicable for UAE nationals who are returning to the UAE and members of diplomatic missions. Members of diplomatic missions traveling from Nigeria must present a negative COVID 19 PCR test certificate from one of the authorized laboratories in Nigeria.

Any visitors traveling from countries, regions, and territories on the ‘green’ list will be exempt from quarantine requirements and can enter the destination by following a series of procedures that include COVID-19 tests. Ahead of departure, travelers to Abu Dhabi from these places will be required to present a valid negative COVID-19 PCR test received within 96 hours before their scheduled departure.

All arriving travelers, including UAE citizens and residents, will be required to present the results of a negative COVID-19 test issued within 96 hours before arrival. Emirates airlines have released a list of approved testing centers for the pre-flight COVID testing. While the list is not exhaustive, it provides listings for over 38 countries for testing options.

All travelers will also be tested on arrival.

Effective January 17, 2021, all travelers arriving in Abu Dhabi must present a negative result of the PCR Test no older than 48 hours before arriving. A second test must be taken on the 4th day after arrival and another one on the 8th day. This procedure applies to all UAE residents except for those vaccinated as part of the national vaccination program.

To meet the increased demand for the less expensive, faster, DPI COVID testing, the UAE has opened four new testing centers in Abu Dhabi. Travelers must remain isolated until their test results are available. All who test positive will be required to isolate for 14 days. Tourists who test positive must isolate at a government-designated facility at their own expense. Those who test negative are not required to isolate.

All arriving travelers must download the Al Hosn tracking application. Travelers to Dubai must also register their details on the COVID-19 DXB app.

All travelers must complete a Health Declaration Form before boarding their flight. Airlines may prevent those with COVID-19 symptoms from boarding flights.

All travelers must register on the website of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship.

All tourists and visitors must have international health insurance that includes coverage for COVID-19.

Status of Government Services

Agreement signed between GDRFA-Dubai and Dubai Tourism to provide e-services for special visa schemes, It will promote online services for the issuance of residency permits for various investor programs and special visas. These include the ‘Distinguished Guests and the Virtual Working’ programs, ‘Golden Visas’ for investors, and retirement visas.

Effectively, Out of country Visa Applications for the following nationalities: Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Turkey, Pakistan, Kenya, Yemen, Tunisia, Iran, Libya, Somalia, and Lebanon will not be accepted temporarily until further notice. Applicants that are already in the UAE on a tourist visa, visit visa, and canceled visa will not be affected but the application processing timeline can be expected to take longer than usual.

The processing of applications for new Entry Permits (EPs) from outside the UAE is temporarily suspended. It is unknown when processing will resume. In-country processing continues.

Government offices have reopened at 100% capacity. The issuance of visa stamps and Emirates ID cards in the country has resumed. Residence Visa stamping has resumed.
The authorities continue to process in-country applications for free-zone work permits and in-country visa applications and renewals.

The processing of new visas for tourists, employees, and their dependents has resumed across the UAE and outside the UAE. However, there is a temporary ban on applications for new entry permits from outside the UAE for nationals of Afghanistan, India, Egypt, Lebanon, Palestine, South Sudan, Nigeria, and Pakistan.

The UAE authorities have started accepting out-of-country employment visa applications to most free zones with mainland applications expected to follow shortly. Before submitting the application, the applicant must confirm that he/she is allowed to depart from the country where he/she is located.

Those whose status is expiring soon may apply for a new visitor tourist visa through any travel and tourism agency in the UAE.

Medical centers have reopened for medical exams. Medical tests are again required for all visa applications, including renewals, with no exemptions.

Concessions

Foreigners who came to the UAE on tourist visas and whose visas and entry permits have expired before December 28, 2020, will now be deemed valid until March 31, 2021, without any charge.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

The UK government announced that COVID-19 vaccines on the World Health Organization (WHO) emergency use listing (EUL) will be recognized in the government’s inbound travel rules beginning at 4:00 am November 22, 2021. Vaccines on this list include Sinovac, Sinopharm Beijing, and Covaxin. For a list of vaccines already approved by the UK government, click here.

Beginning at 4:00 am on November 1, 2021, the UK will remove certain countries and territories from its Red Travel List. Specifically, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Haiti, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela will be removed.

Travelers returning to the UK from these locations will no longer be required to enter a hotel quarantine after November 1, 2021.

Beginning October 24, 2021, the UK government will require that a lateral flow test be taken on or two days before arrival in the UK, instead of a PCR test for eligible fully vaccinated travelers. In order to be eligible, travelers must be fully vaccinated and arrive from a country not listed on the UK red country list. Travelers will also be required to upload a photo of their test to verify results as soon as possible, with free confirmatory NHS PCRs for any positive cases.

The UK borders remain open. However, beginning on Friday, April 23, India will be added to England’s “red list.” The complete list of countries included on the “red list” can be found here.

Travel bans will remain for travelers coming to England from any country included on the “red list.”

The UK and Irish nationals and residents may continue to enter England from countries included on the “red list.” Still, they will be required to quarantine at a government-approved hotel facility for ten days upon arrival.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Effective January 18, 2021, all travelers arriving in the UK by boat, plane, or train need to present a negative PCR Test no older than 72 hours, UK citizens included.

Most travelers arriving in the UK from abroad are required to self-isolate for ten days. They must also fill out a contact locator form with their contact information, including a local address. If they do not have appropriate accommodation, the government will designate a quarantine location. Certain travelers are exempt from the self-isolation requirement. Government officials will conduct spot checks to ensure compliance. Penalties for non-compliance include a fine of GBP 1,000 or higher and possible prosecution.

Vaccinated Travelers

Beginning November 22, 2021, the UK government will implement the following travel policy changes:

• The inbound vaccination policy will be expanded to include proof of vaccine certification from 15 additional countries and territories
• All travelers under the age of 18 arriving from non-red list countries and territories will be treated as fully vaccinated, regardless of their actual vaccination status. As such, they will be exempt from self-isolation requirements on arrival and certain testing requirements
• US travelers will no longer be required to provide proof of US residency when proving their fully vaccinated status with a US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) issued vaccination certificate
• The following US state-issued certificate solutions will also be accepted as proof of vaccination:
  • California Digital COVID-19 Vaccine Record
  • New York Excelsior Pass Plus
  • Washington State WA Verify

Beginning October 11, 2021, the UK government will allow fully vaccinated travelers from Nigeria to travel to England without needing to provide a pre-departure test, undertake a day eight test, or self-isolate for ten days. Travelers will still be required to book and pay for a day two test.

As of August 2, 2021, travelers to England who have been fully vaccinated in the EU/EFTA or the United States are not required to undergo any quarantine procedures currently in place.

Status of Government Services

Activities for which UK short-term business visitors do not need a work visa:

• Meetings and consultations
• Research and design
• Marketing research
• Training seminars
• Trade fairs and exhibitions
• Sales
• Purchasing
• After-sales or after-lease service
• Commercial transactions
• Tourism personnel
• Translation and interpretation

Most Visa Application Centers (VACs) outside the UK have now reopened. Priority and Super Priority services are not yet available.

Most Application Support Centers (ASCs) in the United States and its territories reopened in July. The ASC in Toronto is also open. Services are by appointment only–no walk-ins are allowed. Note that only 20% of the usual number of appointments will be available. New appointment slots will be released every Thursday. No settlement or priority processing is available. Applicants who were unable to keep their appointments due to COVID-19 may reschedule at the exact location only. Application submission and pick-ups cannot be completed in person and must be done via FedEx.

Service and Support Centers (SSCs) in the UK have reopened, but fewer appointments are available.

Some UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centers have also reopened. See the UKVCAS website for the list of open centers and further information. Note that thousands of applicants are having trouble scheduling appointments at UKVCAS centers as centers address the backlog of cases built up due to COVID-19.

Applicants who have previously applied for a UK visa will be able to avoid attending an appointment at a visa center. Instead, they would use a new UKVCAS Identity Verification (IDV) mobile app to submit facial images and supporting information. It has not yet been announced exactly when the app will become available–a phased rollout will begin in August 2020, and eligible customers will be contacted.

Meanwhile, new applicants must wait to secure an appointment at a visa center to submit their biometric information.

Applications can be filed online but will be kept on hold until the centers reopen, after which appointments can be made. Priority and Super Priority services are not available. Once the centers reopen, all applications will be processed under standard service for adjudication in six to eight weeks. Those whose visas expire during the closures will not be adversely affected.

Responses from the UKVI and Home Office are taking longer to obtain due to the increased volume of email queries.

Concessions

Non-EU nationals in the UK for work or study are allowed to work or study from home.
Those in the UK who wish to switch to a long-term visa and typically need to do so from their home country may now apply using the UKVI in-country online application process. Since there are processing delays related to COVID-19, applicants’ leave will remain valid until their application is adjudicated. This option is only available if the current visa has an expiration date between January 24 and July 31, 2020. Note that to complete this process, the applicant must appear at a UKVCAS center.

Tier 2 visa applicants may begin working before the adjudication of their application if their sponsors have assigned them a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS); if the position they are assuming is the one indicated on their CoS; and if the visa application was submitted before the expiry of their current visa.

The visas of doctors, nurses, or paramedics working or volunteering for the NHS and those of their family members with an expiration date before October 1, 2020, will be automatically extended for one year. No application is necessary, and no fees will be charged. The Home Office will notify eligible workers and their employers.
Tier 2, 4, and 5 sponsors are not required to report student or employee absences that the sponsors have authorized due to the student/employee’s illness, quarantine, or restricted travel related to the Coronavirus. Employers also do not need to report that employees are working from home due to COVID-19.

Sponsors are not required to withdraw sponsorship if a student is unable to attend classes for more than 60 days, or an employee is absent from work and not paid for four weeks or more if the sponsor considers the circumstances exceptional due to the Coronavirus.

The Home Office will not take any compliance action against students or employees absent from classes/work due to the Coronavirus or sponsors who continue to sponsor them.

Employers can temporarily reduce the salaries of their sponsored employees to 80% of their salary or £2,500 per month, whichever is lower. Salary reductions must be to avoid redundancies, and settled and sponsored workers must be treated the same. Any change in salary or working hours should be reported to the Home Office.

Please see the UK government’s Coronavirus: advice for Tier 2, 4, and 5 sponsors page and Coronavirus: advice for UK visa applicants and temporary UK residents page for more information on these and other concessions.

The Home Office has introduced temporary changes to facilitate the right-to-work check process during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As of May 14, 2021, the Home Office has confirmed that the coronavirus provisions regarding the right to work checks will be extended until June 20, 2021.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Beginning September 1, 2021, foreign nationals may enter the country so long as they own real estate that is located within the country of Uruguay, or if they are shareholders of companies that own real estate in Uruguay. They may be accompanied by their spouse, concubine, and family members within their second straight line of consanguinity. Individuals must provide proof of ownership through either a notary certificate or a sworn statement and signed affidavit. Additionally, all individuals that enter Uruguay through this method must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 and are required to take a Covid-19 test seven days after arrival, as well as complete a 14-day quarantine upon entry.

For additional information visit the Uruguayan Ministry of Public Health.

The Uruguay government has reopened its borders for citizens of the EU.

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

All travelers must present a negative result of PCR test carried out 72 hours before travel; self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival or perform a new swab on the 7th day after arrival. Depending on the result of the swab the quarantine will end or continue.

Travel Restrictions and Permissions

Several provincial departments of labor, invalids, and social affairs have issued guidance on how organizations can apply for authorization for foreign investors, business managers, experts, specialists, and highly skilled workers to enter or re-enter Vietnam. See below under “Status of Government Services”. Entry remains restricted for other categories of travelers (e.g., business visitors).

The visa exemption scheme has been suspended for all nationalities.

Flights/travel will begin reopening one-way flights from Hanoi and HCMC to Tokyo, Japan from September 18, 2020. Other flights to South Korea, China, Taiwan, Laos, and Cambodia will be available shortly.

Note that regular commercial flights coming to Vietnam have not reopened yet.
Flights/travel in and out of Danang and surrounding provinces is currently restricted as per recent outbreaks in those areas.

Hanoi and HCMC International airports will be closed:

• In Hanoi, from June 1 until June 7, 2021
• In HCMC, since last May 27 until June 14, 2021

Quarantines and Other Restrictions/Requirements

Travelers coming from “safe” countries into Vietnam will have shorter quarantine periods from 5-7 days. Travelers coming from other countries will have to follow normal quarantine protocols.

All domestic travelers coming to HCMC with travel originating from Hanoi, Hai Duong, Bac Giang, Da Nang, Quang Nam, and Quang Nai will be monitored closely and might be requested to self-quarantine, be tested, and/or proceed to centralized quarantine/treatment centers depending on the level of exposure of the area of origin. Travelers will be categorized into 4 groups and apply different levels of health monitoring for each group for at least 14 days. Those travelers who do receive a notification from the authorities should follow all instructions as follows:

Group 1 – Individuals who had close contact with confirmed COVID-19 patients: requires centralized quarantine; COVID-19 testing.

Group 2 – Individuals who departed an area where strict social distancing requirements were in place: requires centralized quarantine; COVID-19 testing.

Group 3 – Individuals who have been to venues determined by the Vietnamese Ministry of Health as high-risk: require self-quarantine at home; COVID-19 testing may be required if an individual has COVID-19 symptoms.

Group 4 – All others: self-monitor health condition; COVID-19 testing may be required if an individual has COVID-19 symptoms.

All admissible travelers arriving in Vietnam by any mode of transportation will be subject to a 14-day quarantine at a quarantine center, hotel, or resort designated by the government, at their host entity’s expense. Those who are not diagnosed with COVID-19 will be required to stay in their room for 14 days. Those diagnosed with COVID-19 will be subject to a longer quarantine. Health testing will be conducted during the quarantine.

Organizations that sponsor experts to enter Vietnam must ensure 1) that the experts have a PCR test for COVID-19 three to seven days before the entry date through a government-approved or WHO-approved laboratory; 2) that the experts have international health insurance that will cover them if they are infected with COVID-19 (or the inviting organization must agree to pay for treatment), and 3) that the organizations take precautions to prevent and control COVID-19 at the workplace. These requirements apply to experts entering Vietnam on or after August 5, 2020.

On August 31st, the Ministry of Health issued a new guideline for short-term business travelers entering Vietnam for less than 14 days. This new guideline would allow the short-term traveler to avoid the normal 14-day quarantine and instead allow them (with strict supervision), to perform specific meetings and tasks outside of their quarantine hotel. Any movement outside of the hotel must be arranged, approved, and overseen by the Provincial centers for disease control and prevention (CDC). Further, short-term travelers must still make a reservation at one of the designated quarantine hotels and are not allowed to travel freely during their stay in Vietnam.

Vaccinated Travelers

Beginning October 21, 2021, the government of Vietnam has temporarily recognized COVID-19 vaccine certificates from 72 countries and territories. Eligible travelers will be required to undergo a seven-day quarantine and present proof of vaccination upon entrance. For a list of countries and territories with approved vaccine certificates click here.

As of August 11, 2021, fully vaccinated travelers who have received both doses of an approved COVID-19 vaccine no less than 14 days before travel must only quarantine for 14 days upon arrival (7 days at a designated hotel and 7 days of home quarantine). A negative PCR test completed within 72 hours before their departure date must also be provided upon arrival.

Status of Government Services

All immigration departments have resumed operations. Temporary Residence Card and visa extension applications for in-country applicants are being accepted again.

In Hanoi, the Labor Department is still accepting new and renewal work permit applications from applicants who are in Vietnam except for applications from Chinese e-passport holders. Additional supporting documents may be requested for applicants who entered after February 1, 2020.

In Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), the HCMC Labor Department is processing renewal/reissuance applications for those who meet the criteria. Additional documentation may be required for those who entered after February 1, 2020.

As of July 1, 2021, the HCMC Department of Labor Invalids and Social Affairs has begun receiving and processing work permit applications for Chinese e-passport holders once again.

Several provincial departments of labor, invalids, and social affairs have issued guidance on how organizations can apply for authorization for foreign investors, business managers, experts, specialists, and highly skilled workers to enter or re-enter Vietnam.

Organizations/companies must submit a standard request letter and a form that requests information about the foreign national to their province’s department of labor. The provincial labor department will then send all requests to the provincial People’s Committee, which will make a decision in each case and, for approved cases, coordinate the issuance of visas, quarantine, transportation, etc. with the relevant authorities. Please contact your immigration professional for additional information and assistance with the process.