Mobility: Immigration Tracker
Impact of COVID-19 on global immigration
4 January 2021 Important notes
• This document provides a snapshot of the policy changes that have been announced in jurisdictions around the world in response to the COVID-19 crisis. It is designed to support conversations about policies that have been proposed or implemented in key jurisdictions • Policy changes across the globe are being proposed and implemented on a daily basis. This document is updated on an ongoing basis but not all entries will be up-to-date as the process moves forward. In addition, not all jurisdictions are reflected in this document • Find the most current version of this tracker on ey.com • Please consult with your EY engagement team to check for new updates and new developments
EY teams have developed additional trackers to help you follow changes:
► Force Majeure ► Global Mobility ► Global Tax Policy ► Global Trade Considerations ► Labor and Employment Law ► Tax Controversy ► US State and Local Taxes
EY professionals are updating the trackers regularly as the situation continues to develop.
Page 2 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration Overview/key issues
• With the crisis evolving at different stages globally, government authorities continue to implement immigration-related measures to limit the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic and protect the health and safety of individuals in and outside of their jurisdictions.
• Measures to stem the spread of COVID-19 include the following: • Entry restrictions and heightened admission criteria for certain populations (including prohibitions on entry from high-risk locations) • Mandatory “stay-home notices” and quarantine orders for newly admitted citizens, residents and visitors (whether in state facilities, hotels or private residences) • Temporary suspension (and in some cases, permanent cancelation) of existing (valid) visas issued prior to COVID-19 and suspension of issuance of new visas • Introduction of heightened eligibility criteria and application requirements where visas are being issued (including suspension of visa waiver agreements and enhanced document requirements for new applications)
• Some governments are announcing flexible policies to prevent temporary residents who are unable to travel from becoming overstayers under immigration laws, and enabling virtual right to work.
Page 3 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration Jurisdictions covered (115) *Updated
Albania Cuba Honduras Luxembourg Paraguay Taiwan Algeria Cyprus Hong Kong Macau Peru Tanzania Angola Czech Republic Hungary Madagascar Philippines Thailand Argentina Democratic Republic of Iceland Malawi Poland Trinidad and Tobago Congo (DRC) Armenia India * Malaysia Portugal Turkey Denmark Australia Indonesia Malta Qatar Uganda Dominican Republic Austria Ireland Mexico Romania Ukraine Ecuador Bahrain Isle of Man Moldova Russia United Arab Emirates Egypt Belgium Israel * Mongolia Rwanda United Kingdom El Salvador * Bolivia Italy Mozambique Saudi Arabia United States * Estonia Botswana Jamaica Netherlands Senegal Uruguay * Ethiopia Brazil * Japan New Zealand Serbia Venezuela Finland Bulgaria Jersey Nicaragua Singapore Vietnam France Canada Jordan Nigeria Slovakia Zambia Gabon Chile * Kenya North Macedonia Slovenia Zimbabwe Georgia China Mainland Kosovo Norway South Africa Germany Colombia Kuwait Oman South Korea Ghana Costa Rica Latvia Pakistan Spain Greece Cote d’Ivoire Lebanon Panama Sweden Guatemala Croatia Liechtenstein Papua New Guinea Switzerland Guernsey Page 4 • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Albania • Last updated/validated: 2 November 2020
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Quarantines/ Suspension of Heightened admission or Suspension or delays in Entry restrictions Isolation measures existing (valid) visas visa application criteria issuance of new visas Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) decreased ⚫ Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased N/A N/A ⚫ N/A ⚫ N/A ⚫ N/A
► The land borders with Greece, ► Those allowed entry into the Macedonia, Montenegro and jurisdiction are no longer Kosovo have reopened. subject to a 14-day quarantine period. ► As of 22 June 2020, international flights to/from Albania are now permitted.
► Albanian citizens and residents who are currently outside of Albania may repatriate to Albania without needing to adhere to a 14-day quarantine period.
Page 5 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Algeria • Last updated/validated: 9 December 2020
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Quarantines/ Suspension of Heightened admission or Suspension or delays in Entry restrictions Isolation measures existing (valid) visas visa application criteria issuance of new visas Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased ⚫ Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased N/A N/A ⚫ N/A ⚫ N/A N/A
► All Algerian borders have been ► People who were repatriated ► The issuance of new entry visas closed since the beginning of during the crisis were has been suspended until the the pandemic. The flow of quarantined for 14 days in reopening of the Algerian people has been suspended hotels. borders to foreigners. except for emergency medical flights. The authorities have yet to confirm the date on which borders are expected to reopen.
Page 6 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Angola • Last updated/validated: 15 December 2020
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Quarantines/ Suspension of Heightened admission or Suspension or delays in Entry restrictions Isolation measures existing (valid) visas visa application criteria issuance of new visas Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased ⚫ Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased N/A N/A ⚫ N/A N/A ⚫ N/A
► Work visa holders and ► All new entrants are required to ► New entrants are required to professionals providing services quarantine upon arrival and sign take a reverse transmission to public and private entities in a consent form, confirming their polymerase chain reaction (RT- Angola are admissible to compliance with local health PCR) COVID-19 test and test Angola. requirements and obligations. negative for COVID-19 within 72 New entrants will be tested on hours of their intended travel. ► International flight operations their seventh day in Angola, and resumed late September 2020. issued a discharge certificate if they test negative. They will no longer be required to quarantine once they receive their discharge certificates.
Page 7 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Argentina • Last updated/validated: 18 December 2020
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Quarantines/ Suspension of Heightened admission or Suspension or delays in Entry restrictions Isolation measures existing (valid) visas visa application criteria issuance of new visas Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased ⚫ Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased ⚫ Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
► Citizens and residents of Argentina may ► Argentinean citizens and residents ► Tourist visas are currently ► Citizens and residents of Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, ► Some Argentinian consulates enter into Argentina. Paraguay and Uruguay who enter into Argentina who enter the country without a suspended and cannot be used will be required to present the following upon have started issuing visas ► Direct family members (including negative PCR COVID-19 test result to enter Argentina until further entry: (1) an Electronic Travel Declaration, (including family reunification children, parents, spouses and siblings) of (issued no more than 72 hours prior which must be completed no more than 48 hours Argentine citizens may also enter the notice. prior to boarding and is available here, (2) a visas). However, each consulate to travel) will be required to negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) country subject to several entry criteria. has the discretion to determine undergo a mandatory 14-day ► Argentine resident authorization COVID-19 test result issued no more than 72 hours prior to travel, (3) proof of health if/when they will issue new ► Citizens or residents of Bolivia, Brazil, quarantine at the address where documents are not suspended, insurance which covers the cost COVID-19- Chile, Uruguay or Paraguay may enter the visas. Consulates are not they will be residing in Argentina. and may be used to enter to related treatment. Failure to comply with these country as workers, residents or tourists. currently issuing new tourist country. requirements is a basis for refusal of entry Residents or workers must possess the ► Citizens or residents of Bolivia, and/or other penalties. visas. necessary authorizations prior to travel, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay or Paraguay ► Direct family members (including children, or apply for these documents after entry who enter the country as tourists, to the country as a tourist. parents, spouses and siblings) of Argentine as well as foreigners entering for citizens must comply with the three requirements above. In addition, they must: (1) ► Foreigners who are citizens of other family reunification, are not countries (i.e. not of Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, have a valid purpose to enter (e.g. visiting a sick required to quarantine upon arrival, relative) - note, tourism is not considered a valid Uruguay or Paraguay) may enter the however they are required to carry purpose of entry, (2) are "visa exempt" (i.e. do country as residents or workers, provided a negative PCR test as a condition not require a visa to enter Argentina as visitors), they possess the necessary (3) have a copy of the Argentinean family authorizations prior to travel. These of entry. member's identification card (called DNI), and individuals are not authorized to enter the (4) proof of the travel reservations. country as tourists (whether or not they ► Argentinean citizens and residents traveling to would seek to obtain residence or work Argentina may enter via any open port of entry. authorization). They must complete an Electronic Travel Declaration no more than 48 hours prior to ► Essential workers and individuals seeking travel. They will be required to either present a to enter for family reunification are also negative PCR COVID-19 test result issued no eligible to enter Argentina. They will need more than 72 hours prior to travel. If they do not to seek prior approval from the Argentine have a negative PCR test, they will be required consulate with jurisdiction over their to undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine at place of residence. the address where they will be residing in Argentina.
Page 8 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Armenia • Last updated/validated: 2 December 2020
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Quarantines/ Suspension of Heightened admission or Suspension or delays in Entry restrictions Isolation measures existing (valid) visas visa application criteria issuance of new visas Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased N/A N/A ⚫ N/A ⚫ N/A ⚫ N/A
► Foreign nationals are now ► All new entrants will be subject allowed to enter Armenia by to medical check ups to detect air, provided they are otherwise symptoms of COVID-19, and a eligible and hold the 14-day self-isolation period at a appropriate entry documents location designated by the (where required). Armenian authorities. It may be possible to shorten the self- ► Entry to Armenia by land is isolation period by taking a restricted to the following polymerase chain reaction (PCR) groups of individuals: (1) COVID-19 test, and testing Armenian citizens and their negative, during the 14-day family members, (2) lawful isolation period. Armenian residents, (3) representatives of diplomatic missions, consulates, international organizations and their family members, and (4) other individuals, at the discretion of the Armenian authorities.
Page 9 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Australia • Last updated/validated: 12 December 2020
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Quarantines/ Suspension of Heightened admission or Suspension or delays in Entry restrictions Isolation measures existing (valid) visas visa application criteria issuance of new visas Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased ⚫ Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased ⚫ Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased N/A N/A ⚫ N/A N/A N/A
► Australian citizens and permanent residents, ► All entrants will be required to ► Temporary visa holders are ► Extended processing times are and their immediate family members are able to enter Australia. undertake a mandatory 14-day currently not permitted to enter being experienced for some visa quarantine at designated Australia unless exemptions categories. ► New Zealand citizens and their immediate family members who normally reside in facilities (e.g. a hotel), in their apply. Travelers seeking a travel ► Delays are also expected from Australia can enter Australia. port of entry, unless they are exemption must apply and be third party agencies, such as ► New Zealand safe travel zone: From Friday, 16 travelers from New Zealand who approved to travel by the October 2020, individuals may travel from English test centers, health meet safe travel zone Department of Home Affairs New Zealand to Australia (New South Wales, check providers, police Northern Territory and Queensland only), requirements. before traveling. quarantine-free, if they have been in New clearance providers and ► All travelers must complete an Zealand for 14 days or more, and not in a biometrics collection centers. designated hotspot, and they are traveling to Australia Travel Declaration at Australia on a quarantine-free flight. least 72 hours before departure. ► Travelers may transit through Australia, The declaration can be found provided they remain in Australia for 72 hours or less. here.
► Travelers holding Business Innovation and Investment (subclass 188) visas or recruited under the approved Seasonal Worker Program or Pacific Labour Scheme are permitted to enter Australia.
► All other temporary visa holders (except for Partner or Child visa holders) are currently not permitted to enter Australia unless exemptions apply or an entry/travel exemption is approved by the Australian authorities.
► Temporary visas include subclass 457 visas, Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) subclass 482 visas, working holiday visas and student visas, as well as business and tourist visas.
Page 10 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Austria • Last updated/validated: 2 November 2020
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Quarantines/ Suspension of Heightened admission or Suspension or delays in Entry restrictions Isolation measures existing (valid) visas visa application criteria issuance of new visas ⚫ Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased ⚫ Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased N/A ⚫ N/A ⚫ N/A N/A N/A
► Austrian citizens, EU/EEA citizens, Swiss ► Continued from “entry restrictions” ► Continued from the “Quarantine” section. ► Austria has suspended the processing of citizens and residents of Austria may enter all new visa applications. Austria from the following locations ► Austrian citizens, EU/EEA citizens, Swiss ► Travelers who do not fall within the categories citizens and residents of Austria entering without proving that they tested negative listed above must carry a negative PCR health Austria from any of the following locations certificate issued within 72 hours of their for COVID-19 or undergoing a quarantine: must carry a negative polymerase chain proposed entry. Otherwise, they must commit Australia, Belgium (except Brussels and reaction (PCR) test issued within 48 hours prior to a 10-day quarantine (which may end early if Wallonia), Bulgaria (except Blagoevgrad, to travel confirming that they tested negative they test for COVID-19 upon arrival and Burgas, Dobrich, Gabrovo, Jambol, for COVID-19. Alternatively, they must take a receive a negative test result in less than 10 Kardzhali, Montana, Plovdiv, Rasgrad, PCR test within 48 hours of arrival (if they test days). Shumen, Sliven, Smoljan, Sofia, Stara negative, then their quarantine will end): Zagora, Targovishte, Varn), Canada, Albania, Andorra, Argentina, Bahrain, Croatia (only Brod-Posavina, Istrien, Bangladesh, Belarus, Belgium (only Brussels Koprivnica-Križevci, Osijek-Baranja, and Wallonia), Bosnia-Herzegovina, Brazil, Šibenik-Knin, Varaždin, and Zadar), Cyprus, Bulgaria (only Dobrich, Blagoevgrad, Burgas, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France (except Gabrovo, Jambol, Kardzhali, Montana, Plovdiv, Île-de-France and Provence-Alpes-Côte Rasgrad, Shumen, Sliven, Smoljan, Sofia, Stara d’Azur), Germany, Greece, Hungary, Zagora, Targovishte, and Varna), Chile, China Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, mainland (only Hubei province), Costa Rica, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Croatia (except Brod-Posavina, Istrien, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Koprivnica-Križevci, Osijek-Baranja, Šibenik- Knin, Varaždin, Zadar), Czech Republic, Norway, Poland, Portugal (except Lisbon Ecuador, Egypt, France (only Île-de-France and and Norte region), San Marino, Slovakia, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur), India, Indonesia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain (Canary Iran, Israel, Kosovo, Kuwait, the Maldives, Islands only), Sweden, Switzerland, the Mexico, Moldova, Montenegro, Nigeria, North United Kingdom (North East, East Midlands, Macedonia, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Yorkshire, and The Humber), Uruguay, and Portugal (only Lisbon and Norte region), Vatican City. This applies to travel by land Romania, Russia, Senegal, Serbia, Spain and air, and requires travelers to (except the Canary Islands), South Africa, demonstrate that they have not been in a Turkey, Ukraine, the United Kingdom (only jurisdiction other than Austria or the North East, East Midlands, Yorkshire, and The jurisdictions in the preceding list in the 10 Humber), and the United States. days preceding their entry to Austria. ► Continued in “heightened admission” section ► Continued in “Quarantine” section.
Page 11 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Bahrain • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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Quarantines/ Suspension of Heightened admission or Suspension or delays in Entry restrictions Isolation measures existing (valid) visas visa application criteria issuance of new visas ⚫ Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased ⚫ Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
► Only the following individuals are ► New entrants are required to take ► Holders of valid visas issued by ► In addition to testing and ► All new visa applications have currently allowed to enter Bahrain: a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) the Nationality Passports and quarantine requirements (see been suspended by the Bahraini citizens and residents, COVID-19 test upon arrival. They Residence Affairs (NPRA) can "quarantine" section), new immigration authorities. GCC citizens and residents, will need to isolate until the result now resume entering Bahrain entrants must download the passengers holding a valid e-visa of the test is obtained. If the initial without needing to first obtain a "BeAware Bahrain" mobile prior to boarding, passengers test comes back positive, they will eligible to obtain a visa on arrival, pre-approval/permission letter. phone application upon arrival. be required to undergo quarantine The app tracks the location of diplomats, military personnel, measures. airline crew or holders of official, new entrants and notifies them service or UN passports. ► New entrants will need to take a in the event they are second COVID-19 test on their approaching a location where an ► Visa on arrival eligibility can be checked on the Nationality 10th day in Bahrain (if their trip active COVID-19 case has been Passports and Residence Affairs will last 10 days or longer). If the detected. The app also provides (NPRA) site. second test comes back positive, new entrants with the latest they will be required to recommendations from ► Effective 3 October 2020, travel quarantine/isolate at that point government authorities and to/from Iraq and Iran is banned, as and follow instructions from the other general information about is travel to/from other countries local authorities. with elevated infection levels. No the spread of COVID-19 in official country list has been ► All incoming passengers must sign Bahrain. published, and travelers should a declaration upon arrival stating confirm their eligibility to travel to that they will abide by the Ministry Bahrain with their airline carriers of Health’s rules around testing prior to travel. and quarantine.
Page 12 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Belgium • Last updated/validated: 11 November 2020
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Quarantines/ Suspension of Heightened admission or Suspension or delays in Entry restrictions Isolation measures existing (valid) visas visa application criteria issuance of new visas Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased ⚫ Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased N/A N/A N/A ⚫ N/A N/A
► Entry restrictions remain in place ► Quarantine/self isolation rules ► Travel restrictions linked to non- ► Most Belgian consulates and in Belgium. External (Schengen) remain in place, but have essential travel may impact the embassies have resumed borders remain closed to recently eased. Anyone arriving status of existing (valid) visas. activities worldwide. They are foreigners for all non-essential from a non-EU/EEA jurisdiction currently only processing C travel. This restriction does not or from a EU/EEA jurisdiction (short-term) visa and D (long- apply to those in possession of a marked as high risk (red zone) term) visa applications for those valid residence permit or long- will need to self-isolate for 10 whose travel is considered stay visa. Belgium has now days. A COVID-19 test is essential. These travelers may expanded the definition of currently only mandatory if obtain attestations from their essential travel to include certain travelers display symptoms or if local Belgian consulate/embassy short-term assignments (lasting requested by the authorities. confirming that their travel is less than 90 days) and travel by essential. Specific processing self employed workers. An ► Further to the above, anyone requirements differ based on exemption to this restriction is who shows symptoms of COVID- the jurisdiction where the available to nationals of 19 or who has been in close consulate or embassy is Australia, Japan, New Zealand, contact with someone who situated, as well as local Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, tested positive, will need to restrictions. Thailand, and Uruguay. Internal follow the same quarantine and borders (within the EU/Schengen testing rules as new entrants Area) have been reopened to arriving from high-risk residents of the EU, the United jurisdictions. Kingdom, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Iceland and Norway.
Page 13 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Bolivia • Last updated/validated: 14 December 2020
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Quarantines/ Suspension of Heightened admission or Suspension or delays in Entry restrictions Isolation measures existing (valid) visas visa application criteria issuance of new visas Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased N/A N/A ⚫ N/A ⚫ N/A N/A
► Starting 1 September 2020, ► Effective 4 December 2020, new ► As of 6 July 2020, immigration Bolivian citizens and residents entrants - including Bolivian citizens and services have resumed in all of residents who are abroad and seeking to may enter Bolivia by air, sea enter the country - are required to Bolivia’s nine departments, and land. provide proof that they tested negative including Santa Cruz and Beni for a reverse transmission polymerase (where services were previously ► Starting 1 December 2020, chain reaction (RT-PCR) COVID-19 test, temporarily suspended). visitors may enter Bolivia by no more than the following number of air, sea and land. days leading up to their proposed entry: ► (a) Three days for those traveling from bordering countries (i.e. Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay and Peru)
► (b) Seven days for those traveling from South America, Central America and the Caribbean (does not include the countries listed above)
► (c) Ten days for those traveling from North America, Europe, Asia and Oceania.
► Individuals who are not in possession of such proof in advance of travel may be denied entry to the country. All individuals present in Bolivia are advised to abide by local health and safety requirements (e.g. isolating if they develop symptoms of COVID-19 after entering the country).
Page 14 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Botswana • Last updated/validated: 15 December 2020
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Quarantines/ Suspension of Heightened admission or Suspension or delays in Entry restrictions Isolation measures existing (valid) visas visa application criteria issuance of new visas Measure(s) increased ⚫ Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased N/A N/A N/A ⚫ N/A N/A
► Effective 9 November 2020, air ► New entrants are required to ► Visas issued prior to the ► Visa applications are currently travel resumed at the following test (negative) for a polymerase outbreak of COVID-19 are not being processed however there international airports: Sir chain reaction (PCR) COVID-19 canceled, however, visa holders are delays in the processing and Seretse Khama in Gaborone, test no more than 72 hours from high-risk jurisdictions (as issuance of visas currently. Kasane, and Maun. prior to travel. New entrants will determined by the World Health ► The Department of Immigration be screened for COVID-19 Organization) are temporarily ► Effective 1 December 2020, has waived the fingerprint symptoms upon entry, and barred from using their visas to entry to Botswana by ground requirement for work and those who are symptomatic will enter the jurisdiction. crossing will resume at the residence permit applicants be: (1) subject to a mandatory following border points: from Namibia, Zimbabwe and 14-day isolation/quarantine Kazungula road, Kazungula South Africa. period and further testing, and ferry, Ngoma, Ramokgwebana, (2) required to remain in Martins drift, Ramatlabama, contact with the health Tlokweng, Mamuno, Pioneer department for a period of 14 and Mohembo. days while in self isolation. ► The reopening of additional ► Travelers who do not meet ports of entry will be these criteria will be denied considered over time as the entry to the country. local authorities monitor the spread of COVID-19 locally and worldwide.
Page 15 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Brazil • Last updated/validated: 28 December 2020
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► Foreign nationals may now enter ► All newly admitted individuals ► See "suspension/delays in ► Travelers are no longer required to ► New and existing valid Brazil by air from any international are being advised to self-isolate issuance of new visas" section. present proof of insurance upon arriving temporary visas may be used to in Brazil. airport. for at least 14 days. enter Brazil, even if these visas ► As of 30 December 2020, all travelers ► The ban on entering Brazil by other have not been registered with ► Individuals with travel history to (including Brazilian citizens) must present means, such as land-crossing or local authorities (i.e. the Federal any of the following 16 the following documents to the airline waterway, has been extended until prior to boarding: (1) a health declaration Police). Newly-issued temporary jurisdictions will be assessed for further notice. confirming that the traveler will adhere to visas may be registered COVID-19 symptoms and may health and safety measures during their ► Brazilian nationals, permanent and before/until 16 March 2021. be isolated at a health care stay in Brazil, and (2) documentation temporary residents are exempt Individuals holding existing, facility if symptomatic: proving that the traveler tested negative from these entry restrictions. for a reverse transmission polymerase valid (but unregistered) visas, Germany, Australia, United Arab chain reaction (RT-PCR) COVID-19 test ► As of 28 December 2020, foreigners who previously entered Brazil Emirates, Philippines, France, no more than 72 hours prior to boarding. are allowed to enter Brazil by land and are seeking to re-enter the Iran, Italy, Malaysia, Japan, The COVID-19 test documentation must from Paraguay provided all other be issued in Portuguese, Spanish or country, are required to register Singapore, South Korea, North entry requirements are met (e.g. English by a laboratory recognized by the their visas within 90 days of Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, possession of an entry visa, where health authorities in the country of entry to Brazil. This rule goes required). Cambodia, and mainland China. departure. Children under the age of 2 are exempt from the test requirement. into effect on 3 November ► International flights to Brazil ► Persons in contact with Children under the age of 12 who are 2020. originating in, or transiting through, individuals having traveled to accompanied by adults when traveling to Brazil are exempt of the COVID-19 test the UK are temporarily prohibited as the 16 jurisdictions above are of 25 December 2020. In addition, requirement provided all the other adult foreigners who spent time in the UK asked to self-isolate for 14 days travelers have satisfied the test in the 14 days leading up to their after possible exposure. requirement. Unaccompanied children between the ages of 2 and 12 must travel to Brazil, are currently comply with the COVID-19 test prohibited from entry. requirement.
Page 16 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Bulgaria • Last updated/validated: 2 December 2020
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Quarantines/ Suspension of Heightened admission or Suspension or delays in Entry restrictions Isolation measures existing (valid) visas visa application criteria issuance of new visas Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased Measure(s) increased ⚫ Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained ⚫ Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) maintained Measure(s) decreased ⚫ Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased Measure(s) decreased N/A N/A ⚫ N/A N/A ⚫ N/A
► Starting 1 December 2020 and ► Quarantine restrictions have been ► Travelers from non EU/EEA until 31 January 2021, entry lifted. jurisdictions are required to show into Bulgaria is restricted, with a negative polymerase chain limited exceptions, including for reaction (PCR) test result taken Bulgarian citizens and residents within the 72 hours leading up to and their family members, EU the date of entry. Exceptions nationals, UK nationals, citizens apply, including for transport of Schengen area member personnel, those in transit, and states, holders of residence nationals of EU Member States, permits issued in the Schengen area jurisdictions, UK, aforementioned jurisdictions. Australia, Belarus, Canada, Also exempt are citizens of Georgia, Japan, New Zealand, Albania, Australia, Belarus, Rwanda, Serbia, South Korea, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, United Canada, Georgia, Israel, Japan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Moldova, Arab Emirates, and Uruguay. Montenegro, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Rwanda, Serbia, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, and Uruguay. Limited exceptions also exist for cross-border and seasonal workers, medical and transport personnel, and workers involved in strategic projects.
Page 17 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Canada • Last updated/validated: 4 January 2021
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► Canada’s borders are closed to all foreign ► All domestic and international ► Business visitors must demonstrate that ► Immigration application nationals with limited exceptions. Visitors they are not traveling for optional or and temporary residents cannot enter air travelers to a Canadian discretionary purposes. processing times will take longer Canada by land, sea or air for purposes, destination must wear a face due to service reductions. such as tourism/entertainment. If traveling ► Business visitors will not be permitted to by air from any jurisdiction other than the mask at Canadian airport and enter by air if departing from any United States, temporary residents are only for the duration of flights. jurisdiction other than the United States. allowed to board a flight to Canada if they ► Business visitors may be permitted to enter qualify under an air travel exemption. They ► All international travelers must from the United States if not traveling for an must prove that they are not traveling for an self-isolate for 14 days and optional or discretionary purpose. If optional or discretionary purpose. Foreign traveling from the United States, temporary contact health professionals nationals seeking entry to Canada should be residents must demonstrate that they are immediately if experiencing prepared to explain to the border officials not coming to Canada for an optional or why their presence in Canada is essential. discretionary purpose. Effective 9 June COVID-19 symptoms. ► Any traveler displaying COVID-19 symptoms 2020, immediate family members (spouse, will not be permitted to board a flight to common-law partner, dependent child or ► Those arriving from outside Canada, regardless of citizenship. grandchild, parent or a grandparent, Canada will be expected to guardian or a tutor) of Canadian citizens or present their plan for self- ► Immediate family members of Canadian permanent residents will be permitted to citizens or permanent residents, entering to enter Canada provided they do not have any isolation immediately upon be with their Canadian family for 14 days or COVID-19 symptoms and are entering to be arrival in Canada, including safe less, will need to demonstrate that they are with their Canadian family member for at transportation from the airport seeking to enter Canada for an essential least 15 days. purpose (i.e. a non-optional and non- to a place of self-isolation, plans ► Effective 8 October 2020, extended family discretionary purpose). members of Canadian citizens or permanent for self-care, etc. Failure to ► Effective November 21, 2020, the residents, including those in an exclusive present a thorough self-isolation government of Canada will be mandating the dating relationship of at least one year, adult use of the ArriveCAN App for those arriving children, grandchildren, siblings, and plan upon arrival may result in to the country by air. Travelers will need to grandparents will be permitted to enter refusal of admission or being provide information regarding their entry to Canada if pre-approved for travel. Non- Canadians seeking entry in certain quarantined. Canada and their quarantine plans through compassionate cases may also be permitted the app, to assist with entry and public to enter Canada. health follow-ups.
Page 18 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Chile • Last updated/validated: 31 December 2020
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► All borders and ports of entry ► As of 31 December 2020, travelers ► Foreigners who obtained a visa ► Continued from “entry restrictions” ► Chile has two main authorities involved in entering Chile are required to Immigration application processing: (a) the Internal remain closed to foreign visitors abroad (including resident- and Chilean Office is in charge of adjudicating visa ► Effective 23 November 2020, the until 12 January 2021. Chilean quarantine for 10 days upon entry. applications submitted by foreigners who are After this period, they must continue to business- visa holders) who have International Airport in Santiago re- physically present in Chile and (b) the Foreign citizens and residents are exempt comply with local health and safety not yet entered Chile using their opened to foreigners entering as Chilean Office, which is in charge of adjudicating from this restriction, and are visa processes for foreigners who are outside of measures, such as local self-isolation visa are not currently admissible visitors or tourists. Foreign Chile and apply for visas at the relevant Chilean permitted to enter the rules (e.g. isolate during the weekend to Chile, except in exceptional visitors/tourists entering via consulate. jurisdiction. only). circumstances (including the Santiago International Airport must: ► New applications filed through the Internal Chilean Office are being accepted for processing. Visa ► Travelers entering Chile may be allowed (1) complete an online Travel ► Additional special categories of need to obtain a applications that have already been filed through the individuals are also authorized to to quarantine for less than 10 days if Salvoconducto). Declaration Form (which can be Internal Office but not yet approved will not be they tested negative for a polymerase found here: www.c19.cl) no more canceled, however, significant delays in processing enter Chile subject to chain reaction (PCR) COVID-19 test no are to be expected. eligibility/application ► Effective 23 November 2020, than 48 hours prior to departure, more than 144 hours prior to departure. and (2) carry international health ► New applications filed at Chilean consulates abroad requirements, including: (1) these foreigners will be are subject to the current operating conditions of parents of children who are ► Effective 23 November 2020, travelers permitted to enter Chile via the insurance. the relevant consulate. Many Chilean Consulates entering Chile via the Santiago abroad have suspended visa processing, however Chilean citizens or residents, (2) International Airport of ► As of 22 December 2020, the some consulates are starting to reopen and process International Airport may be required to new visa applications. married or civil partners of quarantine for 10 days upon arrival, and Santiago, without the need to Chilean authorities have suspended Chilean citizens or residents, (3) this quarantine period may be shortened obtain a Salvoconducto. arrival flights from the United ► Visas that have been approved but not yet stamped (i.e. issued to the applicant and stamped in their business visitors who are potentially if the traveler carries a Kingdom and forbidden the entry of passport) may be stamped once the Chilean authorized by a local Chilean negative PCR COVID-19 test taken no foreigners who are not residents of Consulates resume their regular functions. These more than 144 hours prior to departure. circumstances could impact the validity of visas, as consulate and have been issued a Chile and who were present in the individuals who do not enter Chile within 90 days of special permit called a ► As of 22 December 2020, Chilean United Kingdom in the last 14 days their visa being issued may forfeit their visa (i.e. the visa will be considered canceled). There are no "Salvoconducto," and (4) others citizens and foreign residents that have preceding their travel to Chile. general or common procedures being applied to all at the discretion of the Chilean been in the United Kingdom in the last consulates. Once the visa is issued, the foreigner will also require a special permit called a authorities. 14 days preceding their travel to Chile must complete a mandatory quarantine "Salvoconducto." ► Continued in “heightened of 14 days. ► Foreigners entering Chile on/after 23 November 2020 via Santiago International Airport will no admission” section longer require a Salvoconducto.
Page 19 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] China Mainland • Last updated/validated: 14 December 2020
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► Effective 28 March 2020, borders are closed to ► All overseas visitors will undergo a 14-day ► In general, many Chinese embassies and ► The following are suspended until most foreigners including holders of visas, centralized quarantine in most locations. In consulates are temporarily suspending visa further notice: policies governing port residence permits and Asia Pacific Economic Shanghai, the quarantine can be issuance for many visa types. In addition, the visas, 24/72/144 hour visa free transit Cooperation (APEC) Business Travel authorities are reviewing in detail applications centralized for the first seven days, Cards (ABTC). The travel ban does not apply to for government issued "PU" invitation letters. through mainland China, 30-day visa permanent residents, holders of diplomatic, followed by a 7-day home observation free travel to Hainan, 15-day visa free service, courtesy or C visas, or Hong Kong, period. In Beijing, visitors will be subject to ► Foreign employees may apply for "PU" entry for foreign cruise members, 144 Macau or Taiwan residents who enter with a a 14-day centralized quarantine followed invitation letters and then apply for visas to hour visa entry to Guangdong, and 15- Mainland China Travel Permit. International by a 7-day home observation period. For enter China. flights to Beijing must enter via one of 16 day visa free entry to Guangzi. designated points of entry, while those to domestic travelers traveling from high- ► For their family dependents, "PU" invitation Shanghai can only land in the Pudong and medium-risk areas in mainland China, letter application requirements differ in major ► Foreigners entering for economic, trade, International Airport. a negative nucleic acid test certificate or a China cities. scientific, technology and emergency 14-day home quarantine is still required. humanitarian reasons, as well as those ► China has now entered agreements with more ► The authorities in Shenzhen are only issuing PU jurisdictions (i.e. South Korea, Germany, entering to attend funerals, may apply ► To ensure a swift return to work, the letters to family members of residents of Singapore, Myanmar and Indonesia) to establish for visas at embassies and consulates, quarantine period for travelers entering Singapore, Korea and Japan. Family members a “fast track” procedure to facilitate foreigners’ and these requests will be processed on China Mainland via fast track will be must apply separately from the principal entry into China on essential and urgent applicants. a case-by-case basis. businesses. The fast track process needs to be shortened provided that they have gone pre-approved by the relevant Chinese through a health screening prior to travel ► In Guangzhou, the authorities in the Tianhe government authorities before foreigners can and tested negative for COVID-19 after district are only issuing PU letters to family travel. Eligible foreigners can apply for a Chinese arrival. These travelers will be subject to members of residents of Singapore, Korea and visa after their fast track applications are “closed loop” management by their Japan (who may apply separately from the approved. principal applicants). In the Yuexiu district, companies and supervision by local issuance of all PU letters is on hold (both for ► Effective 28 September 2020, foreign nationals epidemic prevention and control agencies principal applicants and dependents). holding valid Chinese residence permits for work, during their entire stay in China Mainland. personal matters and reunion are allowed to ► In Zhuhai, Beijing and Shanghai, issuance of PU enter China without having to apply for a new ► Effective 12 August 2020, travelers letters to dependent family members is on hold. visa. If the residence permit expired before 28 March 2020, the holder may apply for the entering from Macau are not required to serve a 14-day centralized quarantine and ► The Chinese authorities have temporarily relevant visa by presenting the expired residence suspended issuance of PU letters to residents of permit and relevant materials to the Chinese medical observation period. However, they the following countries as they are prohibited embassy/consulate, provided there are no must take a nucleic acid COVID-19 test and from entering China: Russia, France, changes to the purpose of visit. All individuals obtain a negative result within seven days Philippines, Britain, Ethiopia, Belgium, Nigeria, are required to strictly abide by the Chinese of arrival. India, Bangladesh, Ukraine and Italy. regulations on epidemic prevention and control.
Page 20 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Colombia • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► As of 21 September 2020, ► New entrants to the country are ► Effective 27 March 2020, all ► New visa issuance is currently international air travel into no longer required to quarantine foreigners applying for a Visitor suspended. Colombia is permitted, subject upon arrival. However, they Visa must have international to the availability of must download the Corona health insurance valid for the international flights. mobile phone application and duration of their visa. track their health condition for ► All border crossings with Brazil, ► Foreigners applying for a 14 days following their entry to Ecuador, Panama, Peru and Migrant Visa renewal must have the country. The local Venezuela are closed until 16 a health social contribution authorities retain the right to January 2021 (extended from certificate. follow up with new entrants to 1 November 2020). the country to monitor and ► New entrants to Colombia are manage the spread of the no longer required to present a pandemic. certificate of a (negative) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) ► Local preventive isolation COVID-19 test. sanitary measures and biosafety protocols remain in force and extend to specific sectors (e.g. individuals aged 60 or older).
► Anyone (including foreigners entering the country) are encouraged to quarantine / isolate if they develop symptoms of COVID-19.
Page 21 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Costa Rica • Last updated/validated: 4 January 2021
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► Foreign nationals may enter ► Costa Rican citizens and ► New visa issuance is currently Costa Rica as tourists provided residents, as well as foreigners suspended until 11 January they: (1) have travel insurance entering as tourists, are no 2021 (extended multiple times that covers medical expenses longer required to self-isolate from 18 September 2020). and isolation costs, and (2) for 14 days upon arrival. complete a health form called a "Pase de Salud". Under these circumstances, foreign tourists are not required to self-isolate upon entry to Costa Rica.
► Costa Rican citizens and residents may enter Costa Rica provided they (1) complete a "Pase de Salud" form and (2) carry a valid identification document for foreigners (DIMEX).
Page 22 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Cote d’Ivoire • Last updated/validated: 9 July 2020
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► International flights have ► Self isolation and stay-at-home ► The authorities have started to resumed, however land and sea measures are being issue new consular visas and e- borders remain closed. Abidjan implemented. visas. remains restricted to travelers ► Additionally, arriving or exiting from other cities. travelers must complete a file available here. This file is mandatory and will be requested by the authorities at the port of entry/exit.
Page 23 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Croatia • Last updated/validated: 2 December 2020
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► The Croatian borders are now ► Individuals arriving from foreign ► The authorities are not currently open to foreign nationals jurisdictions that still have high issuing tourist visas. Visa seeking to enter the numbers of COVID-19 infections processing is not suspended for jurisdiction. are required to test negative for several categories of applicants, including: (1) family members of COVID-19 within 48 hours of Croatian nationals, (2) family their proposed entry. If they do members of citizens of the EEA, not have this proof of a negative Switzerland and the United test, they will be required to Kingdom, (3) persons who have take a COVID-19 test upon been granted temporary residence arrival or alternatively for the purposes referred to in quarantine for 14 days after Article 47 of the Aliens Act (Official arrival. Gazette, Nos. 130/11, 74/13, 69/17 and 46/2018), or have been issued a residence and work permit in Croatia, (4) healthcare professionals, (5) passengers in transit, provided they have proof that they are eligible to enter their final destination (after transiting through Croatia), (6) seafarers in transit, including seafarers who come to Croatia for embarkation/disembarkation.
Page 24 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Cuba • Last updated/validated: 23 November 2020
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► Most inbound commercial ► Newly admitted individuals ► New entrants must take a PCR flights to Cuba remain arriving in Havana and other COVID-19 test upon arrival at suspended. major cities by air are required the airport in Cuba as a to undergo a mandatory condition for entry. ► Cuban citizens and residents polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (both temporary and COVID-19 test upon arrival at permanent) are allowed to the airport, and to self-isolate in enter Cuba. a house or hotel for 48 hours ► Cargo and humanitarian flights pending receipt of the test with special permission from results. New entrants who test the Ministry of Foreign negative will be allowed to cease Investment are also able to their self-isolation period, while enter Cuba. those who test positive will be required to remain in isolation ► As of 1 October 2020, visitors and until such time that they are allowed to travel to the can take another COVID-19 test following locations: Varadero, and test negative. Cayo Coco, Cayo Guillermo, Cayo Santa Maria, Cayo Cruz, ► Newly admitted individuals and Cayo Largo. visiting tourist destinations (e.g. Cayo Coco, Varadero, Cayo Guillermo, Cayo Santa Maria, Cayo Cruz, and Cayo Largo) are not required to isolate upon arrival.
Page 25 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Cyprus • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► Repatriation and entry to ► As of 20 June 2020, individuals arriving from ► As of 9 June 2020, persons irrespective ► Applications are currently being Category A jurisdictions are not required to Cyprus is now allowed from of nationality, who reside in jurisdictions accepted, but not adjudicated. present a laboratory examination certificate. listed in Categories A or B may enter jurisdictions included in They are however required to make Cyprus. Approvals will be communicated Categories A and B and from declarations regarding their health status and at a later date to be announced apply for a Cyprus flight pass. ► Only the following individuals may enter other jurisdictions if certain Cyprus if traveling from a jurisdiction not by the government. ► Individuals arriving from jurisdictions included criteria are met. Click here for in Category B must provide a laboratory listed in Categories A or B: (1) permanent the lists of jurisdictions in examination certificate issued within the 72 residents of Cyprus, their third-country hours leading up to their travel to Cyprus. If national spouses and underage children, Categories A and B. the authorities of the jurisdiction they reside (2) all other legal residents of Cyprus, (3) in do not provide a service for laboratory nationals of jurisdictions who are in a testing, they may be permitted to undertake a designated diplomatic service or mission laboratory exam when they arrive in Cyprus under the Vienna convention, (4) persons (at a cost of 60 euros). These individuals must remain in self-isolation until they receive the irrespective of nationality who receive test results. special entry permit issued by the Cyprus authorities. ► Individuals who are authorized to enter and who arrive from a jurisdiction that is not ► Individuals traveling from jurisdictions in included in Categories A or B will need to Categories A and B who are seeking to follow the same protocol as Category B obtain an entry permit for employment jurisdictions, but will need to remain in self- purposes must obtain advance approval isolation for 14 days upon arrival and take from the Ministry of the Interior (in another COVID-19 test 48 hours before the addition to following all other entry and end of their self-isolation, at their own expense. The laboratory test results must be health related protocols currently in sent to the following electronic address: place). Individuals traveling from [email protected]. Self-isolation will jurisdictions in Category C do not require end once the result of the second laboratory advance approval from the Ministry of the test is confirmed as negative. If they are Interior, however they must secure a entering for employment purposes, they must special entry permit from the Cyprus also pay a fee through the Cyprus Flight-Pass authorities prior to travel. webpage.
Page 26 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Czech Republic • Last updated/validated: 9 December 2020
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► In general, non-EU nationals ► Prior to arrival in the Czech Republic, ► Continued from Quarantine section ► See Quarantine section. ► Effective 1 August 2020, most travelers entering from high-risk jurisdictions from high-risk jurisdictions are consulates of the Czech must contact the relevant regional hygienic ► During the quarantine period, they prohibited from entering the station (which is determined by the location will not be allowed to travel for Republic where visa services from which they are traveling) by completing jurisdiction. Exceptions are in an electronic form, which is available here: work, to procure necessities etc. have been suspended, have place, including for temporary http://www.prijezdovyformular.cz/. This form Limited exceptions to the rules partially reopened. and permanent residents of the must also be presented at border control upon above exist, for example for those arrival, and anytime after entering the Czech ► Most consulates' visa processing Czech Republic. The list of low transiting through the Czech Republic if requested by local authorities. services is limited to specific and high-risk jurisdictions can Republic (who remain in country for ► These travelers must also undergo a less than 12 hours) as well as individuals until further notice be found here. polymerase chain reaction (PCR) COVID-19 test within their first five days in the diplomats. (e.g. family members of EU jurisdiction, and submit the results of that test nationals, foreigners who to the appropriate hygienic station within the ► Citizens of the Czech Republic and Czech Republic within their first seven days other EU member states, as well as qualified for entry under a within the jurisdiction. They must also self- third-country nationals with long special governmental isolate for their first 10 days in the jurisdiction programs). Only a small portion and will only be allowed to leave isolation for term or permanent resident status authorized purposes, such as commuting to in an EU member state may be of consulates are operating at work (while this is allowed upon receiving a exempt from isolation/quarantine full capacity currently. negative PCR test result) or to receive medical requirements by taking a PCR care. If/when they do leave isolation, they must adhere to local health protocols and COVID-19 test at their own expense requirements such as wearing a protective in a EU member state no more than face mask etc. In the event their PCR test 72 hours prior to entering the comes back positive, the hygienic station will advise on the relevant quarantine measures Czech Republic, testing negative, (which likely will be a quarantine period of 10 and presenting the negative test days from the moment they receive their result to a regional Public Health positive test). Office upon arrival. ► (Continued in “suspension of existing (valid) visas” section)
Page 27 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Democratic Republic of Congo • Last updated/validated: 17 November 2020
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► The government announced the ► New entrants must be tested for lifting of the state of COVID-19 (and obtain a emergency on 22 July 2020. negative test result) within 3 Borders reopened on 15 August days of entry, in order to be 2020. admitted into the DRC. They are also subject to mandatory COVID-19 testing upon arrival.
Page 28 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Denmark • Last updated/validated: 9 December 2020
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► If you are not a Danish national or a ► All travelers from high risk ► Continued from “entry restrictions” ► Only three land ports of entry ► The Danish immigration resident of Denmark, different rules apply for entering Denmark depending on jurisdictions are advised to ► Currently, the open countries outside of between Germany and Denmark authorities are open for in- whether your country/region of residence observe a 14-day quarantine the EU and Schengen Area are Australia, are open: Sæd, Frøslev, and person appointments, allowing is classified as open, banned or high-risk. period upon arrival. Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Kruså. for the completion of biometric Individuals entering Denmark are Korea, Thailand and Uruguay. All other registrations and in-person EU categorized into border regions (including countries are currently considered ► Individuals residing in high risk Norway), open countries/regions, banned residence document filings. banned/closed countries. jurisdictions must provide proof and high-risk countries/regions. See Delays are expected due to the current list here (click "Se den aktuelle ► Individuals from banned/closed that they have a valid purpose of high volume of applications landeliste“, available in Danish only). countries must provide a valid purpose travel in order to be allowed when seeking to enter Denmark. As of resulting from COVID-19 and the ► Individuals residing in Scania, Halland, 26 October 2020, these individuals must entry. Blekinge, Schleswig-Holstein and Norway Christmas holiday period. also carry a negative COVID-19 test can enter Denmark regardless of the (taken no more than 72 hours prior to ► As of 26 October 2020, these purpose of their entry if their region meets individuals must also carry a the criteria for being classified as "open." travel) in order to enter Denmark. If the COVID test cannot be carried out within negative COVID-19 test (taken ► Similarly, the borders are open to this timeframe, these individuals will be no more than 72 hours prior to individuals residing in jurisdictions refused entry to Denmark. classified as "open" by the Danish travel) in order to enter authorities, and individuals from such Denmark. jurisdictions will therefore not need to prove they have a valid purpose to be allowed entry. Currently, the only "open" jurisdiction within the EU and Schengen Area is the Vatican State (and particular border regions). All other countries (including the United Kingdom) are considered banned countries.
► Continued in “suspension of existing (valid) visas” section
Page 29 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Dominican Republic • Last updated/validated: 14 December 2020
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► Effective 1 July 2020, ► Newly admitted individuals who ► Foreign nationals are no longer international flights have present symptoms of COVID-19 required to take a Polymerase resumed for citizens, residents will be sent to local hospitals. Chain Reaction (PCR) test and and visitors. test negative for COVID-19 prior ► New entrants who do not to travel to the Dominican present symptoms who were in Republic. mainland China in the last 14 days may be subject to home ► As of 15 September 2020, quarantine. foreigners will be randomly selected to be tested upon ► New emergency measures were arrival at the airport in the announced on 22 July 2020. Dominican Republic. Those who These include a curfew and test positive will be quarantined. mandatory use of masks in public places.
Page 30 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Ecuador • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► Effective 30 September 2020, ► All inbound travelers will be ► New entrants must present a ► The Ministry of Foreign Affairs domestic and international subject to COVID-19 rapid test negative COVID-19 test as a in Guayaquil is currently open to airports have re-opened in and mandatory isolation upon condition for entry. foreigner nationals, Monday Quito and Guayaquil. arrival. through Friday from 10am to 3pm. The Ministry of Foreign ► Visitors from jurisdictions with Affairs in Quito will be open as a high number of COVID-19 of 29 June 2020, Monday cases will not be permitted through Friday from 8am to entry into Ecuador. 2pm. The Ministry in Quito is currently working at 30% capacity.
Page 31 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Egypt • Last updated/validated: 9 December 2020
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► Entry to Egypt by air is now ► There are no formal quarantine ► Arriving travelers should expect to permitted as of 1 July 2020. or self-isolation requirements. have their temperature checked Travelers should expect to upon arrival, however routine undergo enhanced medical polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests will not be administered. screening upon arrival, including a temperature check. ► Tourists coming to Egypt will now Quarantine requirements will be be required to submit proof that at the discretion of the airport they hold a valid health insurance medical team. policy to Egyptian airport authorities.
► All inbound travelers, including Egyptian nationals, are required to show a negative PCR test result, taken no more than 72 hours prior to their arrival at any of the Egyptian airports. Transit passengers (i.e. those not entitled to hotel accommodation and who remain at the Cairo Airport until their onward flight) are exempt from the PCR test requirement.
Page 32 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] El Salvador • Last updated/validated: 4 January 2021
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► As of 19 September 2020, the ► All travelers (including ► Some Salvadoran consulates International Airport is now Salvadoran nationals and have resumed issuing new visas open to foreigners seeking residents) must carry a to eligible applicants (provided entry to El Salvador. negative PCR COVID-19 test they are open and operating, in certificate, issued by an light of current conditions of the ► A negative polymerase chain authorized laboratory no more country where they are reaction (PCR) COVID-19 test, than 72 hours prior to travel. located). issued by an authorized Individuals who do not comply laboratory no more than 72 with this requirement will be hours prior to travel, is required denied entry to El Salvador. for boarding. This applies to all travelers, including Salvadoran nationals and residents.
► As of 28 December 2020, the Salvadoran Government has prohibited the entrance of foreigners who were present in the United Kingdom or South Africa in the 30 days preceding their proposed travel to El Salvador. Flights that transit through, or stop in, the UK are currently prohibited from entering El Salvador.
Page 33 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Estonia • Last updated/validated: 23 November 2020
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► The following groups are allowed to ► Estonian citizens and residents who display ► Asymptomatic Estonian citizens ► Continued from “Quarantine” section. ► Visa and permit processing has enter Estonia: (1) Estonian citizens symptoms of COVID-19, as well as individuals entering Estonia from outside of the EU, EEA and residents, as well as ► Individuals seeking to enter Estonia from resumed. and residents, and their family and Schengen countries, are required to asymptomatic holders of long- high-risk countries (with infection rates members, (even if they display quarantine for 10 days upon arrival. stay visas issued by a EU, EEA above 50 per 100,000 inhabitants), are symptoms of COVID-19), (2) required to isolate for 10 days upon ► Individuals arriving from EU, EEA or Schengen or Schengen country, or by citizens and residents of EU and countries are not required to isolate on arrival arrival. However, they may shorten this Schengen member states (provided if the infection rate in their departure country Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, isolation period by taking a COVID-19 they do not display symptoms of is below the infection rate in Estonia or below the United Kingdom or the test upon arrival and testing negative, 25 per 100,000 inhabitants. These individuals COVID-19), (3) citizens and Vatican are eligible to enter and then taking another COVID-19 test may be required to isolate upon arrival for up on their seventh day in Estonia. If their to 10 days if the infection rate in their residents of the UK, Andorra, Estonia. Asymptomatic family first test is negative, they may break Monaco, San Marino and the departure country is higher than either the members of the individuals infection rate in Estonia, or 25 per 100,000 their isolation but only for limited Vatican (provided they do not inhabitants. listed here are also eligible for purposes, such as going to work or display symptoms of COVID-19), entry to Estonia. buying groceries, however they must (4) residents of Australia, Japan, ► Asymptomatic individuals seeking to enter avoid unnecessary contact with others. Estonia directly from Finland, Latvia or If the second COVID-19 test comes back New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, Lithuania (and who were not present in South Korea, Thailand and Uruguay jurisdictions other than these in the 10 days negative, they may cease isolation (provided they do not display immediately preceding their travel to Estonia), altogether. are not required to isolate on arrival if: (1) symptoms of COVID-19), (5) they tested negative for a COVID-19 test no foreigners holding a long-stay visa more than 48 hours prior to travel and their family members (alternatively, they may get tested on arrival, (provided they do not display however they must isolate until they receive their test result and may only cease isolating symptoms of COVID-19), and (6) after receiving a negative test result), and (2) students and workers from other they are entering for work, study, family countries (provided they do not reunification, to receive health services, or if they are transiting through Estonia. display symptoms of COVID-19). ► Continued in “heightened admission” section
Page 34 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Ethiopia • Last updated/validated: 15 December 2020
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► As of 23 September 2020, all ► All arriving passengers will be ► Travelers with visas issued passengers must present a quarantined at their own before 26 March 2020 who negative polymerase chain expense for seven days, after have not entered Ethiopia can reaction (PCR) COVID-19 test which they will be tested and if defer their travel for a period of certificate before boarding. deemed necessary, required to one year from the date of issue. Upon arrival in Ethiopia, the self-isolate for an additional validity of the test certificate seven days at home. Diplomats cannot exceed 120 hours from will be tested for COVID-19 upon the date of the test. Children arrival and quarantined at their less than or equal to 12 years respective embassies. These of age are exempted from the measures do not apply to transit PCR test certificate passengers. requirement. A rapid diagnostic ► Travelers arriving at the Bole test (RDT-antibody test) International Airport in Addis certificate will not be accepted Ababa will no longer be re- as a substitute. tested upon arrival.
Page 35 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Finland • Last updated/validated: 9 December 2020
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► Finnish citizens who are outside of Finland ► Travelers entering Finland from countries with an ► Residence permit intake at the ► Continued from “entry restrictions” ► General visa application intake is may re-enter the country. infection rate below 25 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in the 14-day period preceding their Finnish embassies will start ► (2) Schengen external borders for travel from still suspended. The immigration ► Travel to Finland is restricted when travel are not required to self-quarantine. gradually. Foreigners are advised to Andorra, Bulgaria, Ireland, Croatia, Romania, authorities in Finland are open for originating in countries where there are more the United Kingdom, San Marino, Cyprus and ► Travelers, including Finnish citizens and permanent contact the Finnish Embassy with pre-booked appointments only. than 25 COVID-19 cases per 100,000 Monaco. Travel from these jurisdictions is residents, entering Finland from a country with an jurisdiction over their place of inhabitants per 14-day period. This threshold infection rate above this threshold are advised to permitted only for reasons: (a) return travel to is being reviewed on a weekly basis. quarantine for 10 days upon arrival. residence to seek advice and book Finland, (b) return to or through other EU and an appointment. Priority will be Schengen countries, (c) work-related travel ► As of 23 November 2020, there are no entry ► Quarantining is also recommended for those who given to applicants whose (based on employment or an assignment), or restrictions in place at the Schengen external transit through a green country on their way to (d) essential travel (including community land borders for travel from the Vatican. In Finland. Quarantine durations may be shortened if biometrics appointment was traffic from Sweden and Norway). addition, entry restrictions have been lifted travelers take two COVID-19 tests (one prior to canceled due to outbreak of COVID- for residents of Australia, Japan, New entry and the second after entry) and test negative ► Citizens of EU and Schengen countries may Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea for both. 19. In general, a biometrics enter Finland provided they have registered
and Thailand, when arriving from these ► Travelers who possess a certificate confirming they appointment must completed within their right of residence in Finland and they are countries. Entry into Finland from these tested negative for COVID-19 no more than 72 three (3) months of submitting the returning to Finland. countries for persons other than those living hours prior to their arrival in Finland and who application, but the Finnish in these countries is permitted only for the intend to remain in Finland for less than 72 hours ► Entry to Finland remains restricted for other following reasons: (a) return to Finland, (b) are not required to take a second COVID-19 test Immigration Service has extended third-country nationals at Schengen internal return to or through other EU and Schengen after arrival, and they are not mandated to the time limit for proving the and external borders for the most part, countries, (c) reasons considered essential, quarantine while in Finland. including individuals entering from Russia, the applicant's identity until 31 United States and Turkey. Travel from these and (d) specially authorized groups. ► Travelers who possess a negative test certificate December 2020. If needed, changes jurisdictions is permitted only in the following issued no more than 72 hours prior to entry and ► Also, as of 23 November 2020, border who will remain for more than 72 hours are will be made to this time limit, cases: (a) return to Finland, (b) return to or restrictions remain in place at: recommended to wait until 72 hours after their depending on how long COVID-19 transit through other EU and Schengen arrival before taking another COVID-19 test. If the countries, (c) reasons considered essential, ► (1) Schengen internal borders for travel from second COVID-19 test (taken after arrival) is lasts. and (d) specially authorized groups. Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, negative, then the travelers may stop their Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, quarantine. ► Travel on a valid Finnish residence permit is Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, permitted for any reason. the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Slovakia, ► Individuals entering from Sweden and Estonia can Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Lithuania, Poland, commute to Finland for work without having to quarantine or get tested for COVID-19. The Latvia, Liechtenstein and Switzerland. commuting must be regular and take place at least on a weekly basis. ► Continued in “heightened admission criteria”
Page 36 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] France • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► There are no travel restrictions in place ► The lockdown measures have ► Continued from “entry restrictions” ► Travelers eligible to enter France from a ► French consulates are only for individuals arriving from an EU been lifted on 15 December section. non-permitted jurisdiction are required issuing visas to individuals who jurisdiction or "permitted" third countries to fill out and carry a travel certificate (i.e. Australia, Japan, New Zealand, 2020, but there is a curfew in ► Travelers above the age of 11 arriving (according to their situation) and a are allowed to travel to France Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, effect between 8:00 pm and from countries outside of the EU are sworn statement confirming the (because they are either Thailand and the United Kingdom). 6:00 am. During the curfew, required to present a negative absence of COVID-19 symptoms. departing from a permitted Individuals traveling from Lebanon may polymerase chain reaction (PCR) COVID- also enter France. individuals are not allowed to 19 test certificate issued no more than ► Travelers from jurisdictions not country or otherwise exempt leave their homes, except in 72 hours prior to boarding. If the test currently on the list of permitted from a travel restriction and ► Travel restrictions are still in place for cannot be completed in the country countries can only enter France in individuals traveling from anywhere that specific and limited situations. thereby permitted to travel on from which the individual is departing, it specific and extremely limited is not on the list of permitted third These individuals must carry must be completed at the airport upon situations. If they are traveling from that basis). jurisdictions (i.e. all other third proof to substantiate the jurisdictions), with limited exceptions, arrival in France. outside the EU, they must also carry a including for: (1) French nationals, their specific reason they go outside. PCR test certificate obtained no more ► Travelers departing from Algeria, spouses and children, (2) EU citizens than 72 hours prior to boarding, which ► A self-isolation of seven days Bahrain, China, the Democratic Republic confirms they tested negative for whose primary residence is in France and of Congo, Ecuador, Iran, Iraq, Israel, their family members, (3) individuals COVID-19. applies in case of symptoms and Lebanon, Morocco, Panama, Russia, holding a French visa or residence permit remote working is encouraged South Africa, Turkey, Ukraine, the ► Travelers arriving from Algeria, Bahrain, whose primary residence is in France, (4) students, (5) third-country nationals wherever possible. United Arab Emirates, the United States, China, the Democratic Republic of transiting through France, and (6) third- and Zimbabwe must present the PCR Congo, Ecuador, Iran, Iraq, Israel, country nationals with a "Passeport COVID-19 test certificate prior to Lebanon, Morocco, Panama, Russia, Talent" or an Intra-Company Transfer boarding. South Africa, Turkey, Ukraine, the (ICT) long-term visa. United Arab Emirates, the United States, and Zimbabwe will not be allowed to ► Those who are eligible to enter will need board their flight without first showing to carry a travel certificate and sworn their test result. For other countries, if statement confirming they do not have the test cannot be completed before any COVID-19 symptoms. departure, it must be completed at the ► Continued in “suspension of existing airport upon arrival in France. (valid) visas” section.
Page 37 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Gabon • Last updated/validated: 15 December 2020
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► As of 1 July 2020, entry to ► As of 1 July 2020: (1) a curfew ► Medical screening is being Gabon by air, boat and train is remains in effect, but with carried out for new arrivals. now permitted subject to reduced hours (it is now in certain conditions (e.g. a effect from 8pm to 5 am local limited number of flights are time), (2) regular working hours being authorized initially, with a go back into effect in the public view to expanding the number and private sectors, (3) hotels of authorized flights over time may reopen, (4) masks are still as the situation improves). required in public, and (5) social Land and sea borders remain distancing and hygiene closed to travelers. requirements remain in effect. The authorities cautioned that restrictions may be reinstated in certain locations or throughout the jurisdiction if new outbreaks occur.
Page 38 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Georgia • Last updated/validated: 4 December 2020
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► Citizens and permanent ► Currently, most travelers ► The Georgian authorities have ► Travelers should take a PCR residents of the following (including Georgian citizens and not canceled visas issued prior COVID-19 test no more than 72 jurisdictions may enter Georgia their accompanying family to spread of COVID-19. hours prior to travel. Failure to by air (if entering on a direct members) are being placed in Foreigners who were lawfully do so will result in the traveler flight from these locations): quarantine or self-isolation for present on the territory of being placed in quarantine upon Germany, France, Latvia, eight to twelve days upon arrival. Georgia as of 14 March 2020 arrival. Lithuania, Estonia, Spain, ► This does not apply to citizens and who are/were unable to depart Luxembourg, Netherlands, permanent residents of Germany, the jurisdiction before the Poland, Portugal, Romania, France, Latvia, Lithuania or expiration of their authorized Greece, Sweden, Croatia, Italy, Estonia. However, they are legal stay are allowed to remain Cyprus, Slovenia, Iceland. required to complete a in Georgia until 31 December questionnaire detailing their 2020 if (1) their jurisdiction of ► Georgian residence permit travel history for the 14 days citizenship was considered to be holders are subject to entry leading up to their proposed entry "high-risk" category, (2) they restrictions, which are to Georgia. They must also were restricted from departing determined on the basis of their undergo a thermal screening upon Georgia due to restrictions on nationalities. arrival. If they have fever of more entry to their jurisdiction of than 37°C, a polymerase chain citizenship, (3) they were in the reaction (PCR) test will be hospital, quarantine or self- performed. If they test positive isolation, (4) they could not for COVID-19 or if they traveled depart due to canceled to a jurisdiction outside the ones listed, they will be placed in outbound flights. quarantine or self-isolation for eight days.
Page 39 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Germany • Last updated/validated: 10 December 2020
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► Third-country nationals are expected to ► All travelers are generally required ► Visa-free arrival for long-term ► Significant delays in visa and remain banned from entering Germany to self-isolate for 10 days if they stays is possible if travelers can permit application processing with the exception of residents have been in a risk area in the 10 (irrespective of their citizenship) provide that they have a valid, can be expected for a variety of days leading up to their travel to traveling from Australia, New Zealand, urgent reason for their travel. applications, including Thailand, Singapore and Uruguay. Germany. applications to convert a Mainland China, Hong Kong, Japan, ► Visa type D holders need to Visa ► Travelers seeking to enter German national D visa into a Macau and South Korea are expected type D holders need to apply for Germany from a high-risk area long-term residence after to be added to this list if/when there is their final residence permits must complete a registration, arrival, foreign nationals filing a reciprocity agreement in place that within the validity of their visas. grants admission of German citizens to which can be accessed here, and new applications for long-term This will create an interim status these jurisdictions. keep their confirmation of stays, and new visa applications. registration when traveling and which will allow them to remain ► Exemptions exist, including for the entering Germany. Click here for in Germany even after the following: (1) German citizens and more information about risk areas. expiry date of their visa. residents, nationals of EU member states, citizens of Iceland, Norway, ► The mandatory quarantine period Liechtenstein, Switzerland, the United may be shorted by up to five days Kingdom, and third-country nationals holding a long-term residence permit in if new entrants test negative for these countries and their family COVID-19 on/after their fifth day members, (2) skilled and highly after arrival. They must adhere to qualified foreign workers if their all local health and safety employment is necessary from a measures. German economic perspective and the work cannot be postponed or performed abroad, (3) freight transport and other transport personnel, (4) health care and other medical personnel.
Page 40 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Ghana • Last updated/validated: 15 December 2020
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► International flight operations ► All arriving passengers, with the have resumed at the Kotoka exception of children under the International Airport on 1 age of five, will undergo a September 2020. mandatory COVID-19 test upon arrival, at their own expense. ► All passengers must wear a Travelers with a positive COVID- face mask and be in possession 19 test result will be handled by of a negative COVID-19 the local health authorities. polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test certificate, issued within the 72 hours leading up to the proposed travel. Children under the age of five are exempt from the COVID-19 PCR test requirement.
Page 41 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Greece • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► The Schengen borders have been closed ► All travelers entering Greece from effective 17 March 2020 (and are set to 18 December 2020 until 7 January remain closed until 7 January 2021) to all foreign nationals except EU citizens and 2021 (included) are required to their family members (including citizens of quarantine for three days. the UK, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Andorra, Monaco and Switzerland), long- ► Visitors to Greece must submit a term residents, diplomats, cross-border, Passenger Locator Form (PLF) via health care workers, and people transporting goods. the Ministry of Tourism website at latest on the day preceding their ► Citizens and permanent residents of the following locations are also eligible to enter: arrival. Proof of submission of the Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, PLF form is required in order to South Korea, Thailand, Uruguay, the United enter Greece. Furthermore, Arab Emirates and Singapore. visitors to Greece are subject to ► Travelers entering Greece are allowed entry sample testing for COVID-19. provided they hold a medical certificate in Persons who are tested are English confirming they tested negative for a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) COVID- quarantined until the issuance of 19 test, issued no earlier than 72 hours the test results. If the test for prior their arrival in Greece (valid until 7 COVID-19 is positive, new entrants January 2021). Furthermore, residents of will be subject to a 14-day Israel and Russia may enter Greece provided they hold a medical certificate confirming quarantine at their residence or at they tested negative for a PCR COVID-19 a designated quarantine location. test issued no earlier than 72 hours prior Lockdown measures are in place their arrival, and they hold proof of their temporary residence in Greece (such as until 7 January 2021 for all hotel booking confirmation). All flights to residents in Greece. Individuals are and from Turkey and the region of Catalonia allowed to exit their residence only in Spain have been banned until 7 January for work or other specific reasons. 2021.
Page 42 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Guatemala • Last updated/validated: 14 December 2020
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► The bar on entry into ► As of 21 September 2020, ► As of 21 September 2020, new ► The suspension on issuance of Guatemala for non-citizens and quarantine/isolation entrants to Guatemala will be new visas has been lifted. non-residents has been lifted. requirements have been lifted. required to undergo a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) ► However, new entrants must COVID-19 test, test negative for comply with heightened COVID-19 and obtain a admission criteria (including certificate confirming the same getting testing for COVID-19 no more than 72 hours prior to prior to travel). travel to Guatemala.
Page 43 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Guernsey • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► As of 30 May 2020 non- ► As of 28 October 2020, the category ► Visa processing delays may be essential travel to Guernsey is classification will change and local expected due to multiple visa authorities will consider four permitted. categories. Category 1 refers to application center closures. jurisdictions for which Guernsey does not impose any travel restrictions. Individuals traveling from Category 2 jurisdictions can enter Guernsey and take a COVID-19 test on arrival, and will only be required to self-isolate until they receive a negative test result. Once that negative result is confirmed, they will then come under rules for "enhanced passive follow-up“ (i.e. self- isolating, except when performing essential tasks such as buying food and medication). Individuals traveling from Category 3 and 4 jurisdictions will also be tested on arrival, and they will be required to self-isolate for 7 or 14 days. Click here for more details.
► All individuals must complete a Travel Tracker prior to travel to this jurisdiction. The Travel Tracker can be found here. Individuals who provide misleading information may be fined up to £2,000. Individuals who break isolation may be fined up to £10,000.
Page 44 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Honduras • Last updated/validated: 14 December 2020
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► International flight operations ► The curfew prohibiting ► All travelers (including ► The Immigration Institute has resumed on 17 August 2020. individuals from being Honduran nationals and resumed its activities. An Land-border crossings remain outdoors/in public places was residents) must carry a negative appointment is required for in- closed. lifted on 9 November 2020. polymerase chain reaction (PCR) person services. Appointments Individuals are now free to COVID-19 test certificate, are currently scheduled only for circulate in public. issued by an authorized Mondays and Tuesdays. laboratory no more than 72 ► Individuals who develop serious hours prior to travel. COVID-19 symptoms or test positive for COVID-19 should ► In addition, Honduran citizens seek medical advice and follow and residents, as well as all the instructions of the local foreigners seeking entry to medical authorities. Honduras (with the exception of Nicaraguan citizens) must register on this site at least 3 days prior to travel. Nicaraguan citizens must register on this site at least 7 days prior to travel. Individuals who do not comply with these requirements will be denied entry to Honduras.
Page 45 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Hong Kong • Last updated/validated: 10 December 2020
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► Until further notice, only Hong ► All eligible travelers (including Hong Kong ➢ Continued from “Entry Restrictions” section ► Travelers will not be granted admission if they hold a ► The immigration authorities have visa that expires less than 14 days after their proposed residents) arriving from overseas, mainland China, announced the following special service Kong residents with the following Macau or Taiwan will be required to undergo a 14- ► There are plans to allow eligible individuals to date of entry. A health declaration form must be documents will be allowed to enter: day quarantine at a designated location (home or travel from Singapore to Hong Kong without completed and submitted to the Department of Health arrangements with effect from 2 on arrival if Hong Kong is the final destination. These other accommodation). This measure has been having to quarantine upon arrival, under the December 2020 until further notice. Hong Kong permanent identity forms will be distributed onboard all flights to Hong extended to 31 March 2021, with limited ATB arrangement. All ATB-eligible individuals, The below arrangement could be cards, Hong Kong passports or exceptions. Kong. Alternatively, passengers can submit their details regardless of nationality, will be eligible to by filling out an online form prior to departure and changed from time to time in short British National (Overseas) board a designated flight to Hong Kong presenting the QR code (valid for 48 hours) to officials ► Effective 13 November 2020, foreign travelers notice. passports (with right of abode in entering Hong Kong are required to provide provided they: (1) have not visited any on arrival. ► Transit/transfer services have gradually resumed at the confirmation (in English or Chinese) of a hotel location other than Singapore or Hong Kong in ► Regarding visas and extensions of stay, Hong Kong), Hong Kong identity Hong Kong International Airport for passengers who the authorities will only accept urgent room reservation of no less than 14 days, starting the 14 days immediately preceding their entry have been checked through at the point of origin, will cards (accompanied with a valid on their date of arrival to Hong Kong. to Hong Kong, and (2) obtained a valid, travel on the transit/transfer flight operated by the applications of extensions of stay. negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) same carrier, and have confirmed their eligibility to ► work, dependent or study visa), or ► Effective 23 November 2020, Hong Kong residents The Employment, Dependent, and enter their final destination. a work, dependent or study visa returning from Macau or the Guangdong Province nucleic acid COVID-19 test result no more Training Sections of the immigration than 72 hours before their departure. All ATB ► Travelers arriving from specified high-risk jurisdictions in mainland China may apply for an exemption from or who stayed in specified high-risk jurisdictions in the authorities are only accepting that is/has not been activated. travelers will be required to submit to a the 14-day quarantine requirement if they: (1) did 14 days leading up to their entry, must present a application via drop-in. Application not travel to locations other than Macau, COVID-19 test again at the airport upon negative COVID-19 test result conducted by a local ► Non residents may not enter Guangdong or Hong Kong in the 14 days leading up arrival in Hong Kong, wait in a restricted area government-recognized laboratory/healthcare processing times are expected to be except those coming from to their proposed travel, (2) secure a quota from of the airport, and obtain a negative test institution within the 72 hours leading up to their delayed due to the authorities their airline in advance of travel (i.e. a guaranteed result, before being permitted to leave the scheduled time of departure. They must also provide mainland China, Taiwan or Macau proof of a hotel reservation in Hong Kong of 14 days or operating on a limited capacity reservation for a special designated flight to Hong airport. who have not been to other Kong), and (3) present a negative COVID-19 test more starting on the day of the arrival. currently. report issued by one of the medical institutions ► If the negative COVID-19 test result is not available in ► Visa labels can be collected subject to a jurisdictions in the 14 days prior to ► It is expected that Singapore Work Permit or S English or Chinese, or does not include all the required mutually recognized by the authorities in Hong Pass holders who work in the construction, confirmed appointment. entry. In addition, residents of Kong and those of Macau and Guangdong. information, travelers will need to present the marine shipyard and process sectors will not Macau registered under the Macau following: (1) a written confirmation in English or ► The local health authorities have arranged medical be eligible to travel under the ATB. Chinese issued by the laboratory or healthcare scheme, aircraft crew, government surveillance for those who are exempted from institution, or (2) documentary proof in English or serving the compulsory quarantine. These ► Implementation of the ATB flight arrangement Chinese to show that the laboratory or healthcare officials, spouses and minor institution is ISO 15189 accredited/recognized or individuals are required to wear masks and check with Singapore has been delayed to 2021 due approved by the relevant authority of the government children of residents may also their temperature (and report the same) twice to the recent spike in COVID-19 cases in Hong of the place in which the laboratory or healthcare enter Hong Kong. daily. Kong. The two governments are expected to institution is located. announce the start date of the ATB ► High-risk locations currently include the following ► Hong Kong and Singapore have established an Air ► Continued in “suspension of arrangement in late December 2020. countries: Bangladesh, Belgium, Ecuador, Ethiopia, Travel Bubble (ATB). Eligible individuals traveling France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Nepal, existing (valid) visas” section pursuant to the ATB may be exempted from the Pakistan, Philippines, Russia, South Africa, Turkey, the compulsory quarantine requirement. United Kingdom, the United States and Romania.
Page 46 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Hungary • Last updated/validated: 14 December 2020
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► As of 1 September 2020, Hungarian ► The following individuals, after ► Citizens of neighboring jurisdictions ► Hungary declared a state of citizens and their non-Hungarian entering Hungary, are subject to are allowed to enter Hungary for no emergency on 4 November 2020. citizen family members, permanent quarantine or self-isolation more than 24 hours, but must stay All (short term and permanent) residence status holders and those requirements: Hungarian citizens within a zone stretching 30 km residence permits that are due to with a Hungarian residence permit and their non-Hungarian citizen from the border. expire during the state of are allowed entry to Hungary. They family members, non-Hungarian emergency will be automatically must undergo a health check and if citizens with permanent resident extended until 30 days after the the result of health check is positive status and those with Hungarian end of the state of emergency. (confirming the infection), they will residence permits. be subject to an institutional ► Exempt from the quarantine quarantine or home quarantine requirement are those who have (checked by the local authorities); if two negative COVID-19 polymerase the result of health check is chain reaction (PCR) tests negative, they will be subject to a completed at least 48 hours apart 14-day home quarantine (checked within five days, in Hungary. The by the local authorities). first test may be completed in ► Also as of 5 September 2020, Canada, the United States or a business travelers (including intra- company business travelers) will be Schengen country. allowed to enter Hungary without restrictions provided they have documentation to substantiate the purpose of their travel. ► Non-Hungarian citizens, except those listed above, will be denied entry unless special circumstances apply.
Page 47 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Iceland • Last updated/validated: 2 December 2020
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► Iceland will continue to ► If a passenger consents to being ► As of 19 August 2020, ► Since the issuance of visas was stopped implement the current travel temporarily in many jurisdictions that issue tested twice for COVID-19, the passengers can choose visas on Iceland’s behalf, individuals who restrictions imposed across the first test will be taken on arrival between: (1) a 14-day need a visa to travel to Iceland might need Schengen Area. The Schengen at the border, and the second quarantine; or (2) two COVID-19 to postpone their travel until the issuance borders have been closed since of visas starts again. Individuals who need a test will be taken by the primary tests, in addition to five to six visa to travel to Iceland can contact the 17 March 2020 to all foreign healthcare provider four to six days of quarantine. Passengers Ministry for Foreign Affairs for information nationals except EU citizens and days later. In between these two from the Faroe Islands, on the issuing of visas ([email protected]). their family members (this tests, the passenger must Greenland, Denmark, Finland, ► Foreign nationals in Iceland who are unable includes citizens of the UK, quarantine. A COVID-19 positive Norway and Germany are no to return to their home jurisdictions due to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, travel restrictions, quarantine or isolation test result will lead to the longer exempt from having to Andorra, Monaco and requirements, are allowed to stay in Iceland isolation of the affected party test twice for COVID-19 and without a residence permit or visa until 10 Switzerland), long-term and quarantine of those in being quarantined (with the September 2020 (extended from 10 August residents, diplomats, cross- 2020). This applies to foreigners who were border workers, health care contact with her/him. exception of children born in in Iceland before the introduction of travel workers and people transporting 2005 and later). restrictions on 20 March 2020 on the basis of: (1) a visa or residence permit that has goods. expired or will expire before they can leave the jurisdiction, or (2) being visa exempt but having remained in Iceland/the ► The entry restrictions do not Schengen Area for longer than 90 days apply to foreign nationals holding prior to departure from Iceland/the a residence permit issued by one Schengen Area. Foreign nationals, who are of the following jurisdictions: unable to depart from Iceland before 10 Australia, Canada, Georgia, September 2020 can only extend their stay in Iceland without a residence permit or visa Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, if they are issued a permission to stay (after South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia or registering with the Icelandic Directorate of Uruguay. Immigration). Further information on this registration process can be found here.
Page 48 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] India • Last updated/validated: 4 January 2021
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► International commercial passenger ► New entrants to India are required ► Continued from “Quarantines” ► New visa requests can be flights are currently scheduled to remain to quarantine for 14 days upon submitted to Indian consulates ► Other categories of travelers on hold until 31 January 2020. Prior to arrival (broken down into seven 31 January 2021, inbound travel is abroad. The only exception is days of institutional quarantine at are also eligible for an permitted subject to bilateral air travel exemption from the institutional for new tourist visas, which are agreements between India and countries their own cost, followed by seven not currently being issued by days of home quarantine). In quarantine requirement (i.e. Air Transport Bubbles). The current Indian consulates. Processing list of countries forming air bubbles with exceptional cases, new entrants (meaning that they will need to India (and for which travel to/from India may be allowed to quarantine at quarantine at home for 14 days time for new visa requests is currently permitted) includes: home for 14 days, however upon arrival), including: varies from consulate to Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bahrain, consulate. Bhutan, Canada, Ethiopia, France, advance permission from the pregnant women, individuals Germany, Iraq, Japan, Kenya, the Indian authorities is required. traveling with minor children, Maldives, the Netherlands, Nigeria, individuals suffering from Oman, Qatar, Rwanda, Tanzania, ► Travelers who enter India with a Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, the certificate proving that they took a serious illnesses (other than United Kingdom and the United States. reverse transmission polymerase COVID-19), and individuals chain reaction (RT-PCR) COVID-19 traveling to India to attend a ► Please note that travel from the United Kingdom (including under an Air Bubble test no more than 96 hours prior to funeral of a family member. arrangement) is currently prohibited and travel (and tested negative), may Click here for more information expected to resume on 8 January 2021 also seek an exemption from the regarding the quarantine at the earliest. institutional quarantine exemption (known as requirement, in the 72 hours ► Indian citizens, holders of Overseas "Exemption Request Form For leading to their travel, or upon Citizen of India (OCI) cards, and holders International Arriving of Person of Indian Origin (PIO) cards, arrival. who are outside of India may travel to Passengers"). India for any purpose. ► Continued in “suspension of existing (valid) visas” ► For more information about the Air Transport Bubbles, click here.
Page 49 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Indonesia • Last updated/validated: 8 December 2020
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► Effective 7 October 2020, ► Travelers eligible to enter Indonesia will ► Foreigners who are outside of ► Holders of Visitor Stay Permits foreigners are banned from need to undertake an additional screening Indonesia and hold expired (ITK) and Limited Stay Permits carried out by the Port Health Authority (ITAS) who are currently residing in entry or transit through upon arrival such as: (1) A rapid test Limited Stay Permits (ITAS), Indonesia but already have a Telex Indonesia except for holders of and/or a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) Permanent Stay Permits (ITAP), Visa (issued on/after 1 December Limited Stay Permits (ITAS), test, unless they have a valid medical Re-entry Permits or Telex Visas certificate confirming they are COVID-19 2019) can apply for a new ITK or Permanent Residence Permits negative; (2) An interview; and must apply for new visas before ITAS directly at their local (ITAP), Diplomatic and Official re-entering Indonesia. Immigration office in Indonesia. ► (3) a temperature check/other relevant Visas, Diplomatic Stay Permits, tests. Those with reactive rapid test They are not required to leave Official Stay Permits, Limited results and comorbidity will enter into Indonesia and obtain the visa at the Stay Visas, and Visit Visas for isolation at a designated hospital. Those Indonesian Embassy overseas. certain purposes (i.e. business with non-reactive rapid test results will enter into isolation at a designated ► Applications to obtain Limited Stay meetings, purchase of goods). hotel/facility (at their own cost), to Visas and Visit Visas must be Medical help and support staff, undergo a PCR test and await the test sponsored by an entity in Indonesia humanitarian workers and results. and will only be granted upon
transportation crews are also ► Foreign nationals will be granted a health fulfilling enhanced health eligible for entry. clearance, Health Alert Card and a travel requirements. These requirements permit if they receive a negative COVID- include obtaining a health 19 PCR test result and show no certificate confirming that the symptoms/comorbidity. The health applicant tested negative for clearance will need to be submitted to the relevant embassy, and a local health COVID-19, and submitting both a agency will monitor them. They must also Declaration Letter of Willingness to enter a 14-day self-quarantine. Foreign Quarantine and a Consent Letter to nationals will need to complete an online be Monitored during the quarantine. request for a Health Alert Card prior to their arrival. This can be obtained here.
Page 50 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Ireland • Last updated/validated: 8 December 2020
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► Starting 9 November 2020, ► All passengers arriving into Ireland from ► All individuals entering Ireland ► Irish visa services have started overseas must complete a Passenger must complete a Public Health Ireland is implementing the new Locator Form before entry, and are to resume at Irish embassies EU "traffic lights" approach to expected to restrict their movements for 14 Passenger Locator Form online. and consulates. Submission travel, which applies to days after arrival. For those who must self isolate, processes will vary so the form must include the location countries in the European ► Those arriving from an “orange”, “red”, or individuals should reach out Union (EU) and European “green” region, unless they classify under where they plan to isolate. Refusal directly to check whether their Economic Area (EEA). A one of the categories outlined below, are to to complete the form or provision local embassy or consulate is restrict their movements for 14 days. This combined indicator map will be of false or misleading information accepting applications and the period of restricted movement can end if is a statutory offence resulting in published each week by the the individual receives a negative/’not process for submission of a fine of up to EUR 2,500 and/or European Centre for Disease detected’ result of a COVID-19 polymerase supporting documents. Priority chain reaction (PCR) test taken at least five imprisonment for up to six Prevention and Control (ECDC), is currently given to long-stay days after the arrival in Ireland. months. It is also an offense to fail based on agreed criteria, to update the authorities of a visa applications. Short-stay visa including the 14-day cumulative ► The 14-days restriction on movement does applications will only be not apply to certain categories of travelers, change in address or contact incidence rate, testing rate and including: (1) essential supply chain details during the 14-day period. accepted on a priority basis. The testing positivity rates. There workers, (2) individuals transiting through Irish authorities have suspended an Irish airport en route to another are different restrictions that jurisdiction, (3) individuals traveling from ► The following groups are exempt the Irish short-stay visa waiver apply depending on whether a Northern Ireland, (4) passengers entering from completing the form: program with the UK. Irish country is classified as red, for imperative business reasons (advised to essential supply chain workers employment permit applications carry documentation evidencing the orange or green. The list is criticality of their travel), (5) passengers (pilots, hauliers and maritime staff are currently still being updated regularly and can be entering for imperative family reasons members), individuals transiting accepted for processing, with accessed here. (advised to carry documentation evidencing through an Irish airport en route priority being given to health the criticality of their travel), and (6) to another jurisdiction, and travelers entering from an "orange" care and medical professionals. jurisdiction with a negative PCR test issued individuals traveling from no more than three days prior to their Northern Ireland. arrival in Ireland.
Page 51 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Isle of Man • Last updated/validated: 27 July 2020
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► Any Manx resident leaving the ► All new entrants must self- ► The Isle of Man has not taken ► The Isle of Man is not currently Isle of Man who wishes to return isolate immediately upon arrival any steps to suspend existing accepting new visa applications in the foreseeable future must for a period of 14 days. entry/business visas. unless these are for apply for a Manx Entry Permit. emergency/compassionate reasons.
► For more information, click here.
Page 52 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Israel • Last updated/validated: 22 December 2020
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► Foreign nationals are not allowed to enter ► As of 26 December 2020, all foreign ► Continued from “entry restrictions” ► All foreign nationals wishing to ► Work permit and work visa Israel effective 18 March 2020 until further countries are considered "red" notice, with the exception of Israeli citizens, ► For those who are allowed to travel, an arrive in Israel must obtain applications are being residents, those "whose lives are based in countries, and all authorized online Inbound Clearance Application authorization from the relevant processed. Israel", and spouses and children of Israeli travelers entering Israel will be Form (containing personal information Government Ministry as described citizens. required to quarantine for 14 days and a health declaration) should be in the Entry Restrictions section. on arrival. ► Foreign experts can apply for a work permit submitted 24 hours before travel. If Tourist visits are still restricted. from the Ministry of Interior, provided they approved, a digital and hard copy of the obtain an authorization to travel from the flight authorization, and the principal relevant government ministry (this is industry approval to arrive in Israel obtained in specific). Pre-approval from the government advance, should be available to be ministry is required only for arrival from a presented when boarding the flight and "red" country. This enables a seven-day visit without the need to quarantine. Foreign at the Israeli port of entry. experts and dependents who hold a visa that ► Currently, foreign experts holding valid is valid for one year, who wish to travel abroad and return to Israel, should obtain a B-1 visas, as well as business visitors, special authorization from the Israeli are not permitted to enter Israel. immigration authorities prior to their departure from Israel. ► The lists of green and red countries are changing based on infection rates and ► Business travelers can apply to the Ministry case volumes in each country. Travelers of Economy to request a special approval to are advised to confirm the lists prior to arrive in Israel for up to seven days from a travel. As of 26 December 2020, all "green" country or up to four days from a "red" country, for purposes such as: countries are considered "red" transferring or receiving professional countries. knowledge, maintaining functional and managerial continuity, promoting foreign ► Effective immediately, the entry of investment, business development, marketing foreigners from the following locations and sales. Applications are made online by is suspended until further notice: the traveler and the Israeli inviting company. Denmark, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. ► Continued in “suspension of existing (valid) visas”
Page 53 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Italy • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► Entry restrictions will be enhanced ► After admission to Italy, travelers ► See the “entry restrictions” section. ► The validity period of visas expiring from 21 December 2020 until (at will be required to self-isolate in between 7 October 2020 and 31 least) 6 January 2021, with their home or hotel for 14 days December 2020 may have restrictions varying depending on even in the absence of COVID-19 automatically been extended to 31 the traveler's country of origin. symptoms, and they will be required January 2021, depending on the Specific measures vary depending to submit a notification of entrance visa type. Individuals should on the Italian region to which to the competent health authorities. confirm the same on a case-by-case foreigners will travel (or through basis. which they will transit). ► Self-isolation is no longer obligatory if the traveler comes to Italy from a ► Travelers are required to present a country with a low epidemiological Self Declaration document and risk or there is one of the accepted have their temperature checked by essential reason that justifies the the airline carrier prior to boarding. exemption (e.g. specific work that If their temperature is higher than cannot be postponed, health and 37.5°C or they do not have the absolutely essential reasons). complete required documentation, they will not be allowed to board.
► Travelers intending to travel to Italy are advised to check whether any new provisions have been introduced by the region to which they will travel within Italy.
Page 54 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Jamaica • Last updated/validated: 6 December 2020
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► Effective until 15 April 2021, ► All travelers over the age of 12 will be ► See entry restrictions section. advance approval is required to required to obtain and upload a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction enter the country. Jamaican (PCR) test when applying for travel citizens and residents should to authorization in the 10 days prior to apply for entry authorization their travel. They must also be ready to show the negative test result at the point through the following website. of departure, prior to boarding. All Foreigners visiting Jamaica for travelers are also required to undergo a business or leisure should apply health screening and risk assessment for entry authorization through upon arrival. A person who is required to be quarantined for 14 days shall be the following website. monitored by an electronic device. Visitors entering Jamaica for tourism may be required to remain within designated areas or resorts. Business travelers intending to remain in Jamaica for less than 14 days may be released from quarantine under the guidance of the Health Department under certain conditions, and must complete a quarantine order Form D on arrival. While in Jamaica, visitors are required to report symptoms to the health desks at their hotels or to the Health Department in Jamaica. Based on their assessment, travelers may also be required to repeat the COVID-19 PCR test. Persons who test positive or become symptomatic will be placed in isolation.
Page 55 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Japan • Last updated/validated: 7 October 2020
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► Japan has barred foreigners from entry if, in ► All eligible inbound travelers, ► Previously issued short-term ► Continued from “entry restrictions” section. ► The Immigration Bureau has the 14 days leading up to their proposed including Japanese nationals entry visas (single and multiple ► (3) foreign nationals who departed from Japan on resumed issuing Certificates of entry, they traveled to any locations deemed or before 30 August 2020 with a re-entry permit, by the Japanese authorities as high risk. The and permanent residents, will be entry) issued in mainland China and who were not permitted to re-enter Japan Eligibility. These certificates will list of high-risk locations includes over 100 subject to polymerase chain and South Korea are suspended because the permit was deemed invalid after the be valid for six months from jurisdictions currently. traveler's home country was deemed a high risk reaction (PCR) testing and a and invalidated, as are work country (whose citizens are not currently eligible when the entry restriction will ► Holders of Chinese passports issued in Hubei mandatory 14-day quarantine at visas issued under Certificates for admission). be lifted or until 30 April 2021, or Zhejiang, and foreigners on cruise ships a state-designated facility. They of Eligibility upon initial entry ► (4) foreign nationals applying for landing whichever comes first. that departed from Hong Kong, are also authorization in accordance with the “Phased prohibited from entry currently. will also be asked to refrain from into Japan. Measures for Resuming Cross-Border Travel”, using public transportation until ► Effective 1 September 2020, foreigners may ► Travelers (regardless of ► (5) foreign nationals who are seeking entry for enter Japan under "special exceptional August 2020. humanitarian reasons (subject to the discretion of circumstances" if they fall into one of the nationality) from the following the Japanese authorities). categories below: jurisdictions who hold a single or ► The Japanese government has put into effect a multiple-entry Japanese visa “Residence Track” which allows the resumption of ► (1) foreign nationals who departed from travel into Japan by long-term visa applicants Japan on/before 31 August 2020 with a re- that was issued prior to 20 only (e.g. CoE holders for business purposes) entry permit (or special re-entry permit) and March 2020 are not permitted from the following countries/regions: Thailand a Letter of Confirmation of Submitting and Vietnam (effective 29 July 2020), Malaysia, Required Documentation for Re-entry into to enter Japan using that visa: Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Taiwan (effective Japan, issued by the Japanese embassy or Schengen member states, 8 September 2020), Singapore (effective consulate in the traveler's home country. Andorra, Bulgaria, Croatia, September 30) and Brunei (effective October 8). ► Visa exemptions have been suspended for ► (2) foreign nationals who departed from Cyprus, Egypt, Iran, Ireland, nationals of over 40 jurisdictions globally. Japan on or after 1 September 2020 and Monaco, Romania, San Marino, hold a re-entry permit and a Receipt for a ► Visa exemptions granted to APEC Business Travel Request to Re-enter issued by the the United Kingdom, the Card (ABTC) holders issued by the following Immigration Services Agency prior to their Vatican. jurisdictions have also been suspended: Brunei, mainland China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Republic departure from Japan. of Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Thailand and ► Continued in “heightened admission” Vietnam. section.
Page 56 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Jersey • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► All passengers will be required ► All travelers arriving in Jersey ► Jersey has not taken any steps ► Visa processing has resumed, to complete an online pre- must self-isolate on arrival for 14 to suspend existing UK however delays may be departure form prior to travel days, take part in the Safer Travel entry/business visas. expected due to multiple visa to Jersey. The form can be Testing Programme or provide application center closures. accessed here. evidence of a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken within 72 hours leading up to departure. Isolation requirements differ depending on the traveler's travel history. For more information on testing, isolation and other entry requirements, click here. ► Social distancing measures remain in place for all residents in Jersey, though most aspects of the economy are open.
Page 57 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Jordan • Last updated/validated: 9 December 2020
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► International flights have resumed on ► A 14-day quarantine at a ► A temporary suspension of all ► All inbound travelers are ► A temporary suspension of all 8 September 2020. designated hotel is mandatory entry visas (including visas on required to show a negative entry visas (including visas on
► Citizens are asked to use the 'Safely for all inbound passengers. arrival) has been implemented COVID-19 test result, taken no arrival) has been implemented home' government platform to book by the Jordan authorities, more than 72 hours prior to by the Jordan authorities, repatriation flights. effective from 18 March 2020 departure. There will also be a effective from 18 March 2020
► United States citizens must meet the until 31 March 2020. mandatory COVID-19 test taken until 31 March 2020. following conditions in order to enter on arrival. Jordan: ► (1) Have a valid health insurance that covers COVID-19 treatment for the entire trip duration (Jordanian dual-citizens excepted), ► (2) Complete and submit a passenger health declaration form found at gov.jo, which includes submitting proof of a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, ► (3) Pay 40 JOD in advance for the PCR test that will be conducted on arrival in Amman, ► (4) Receive a QR code 24 hours prior to boarding the flight, ► (5) Present proof of a negative PCR test before boarding the flight, ► (6) Install the jo application on a mobile device.
Page 58 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Kenya • Last updated/validated: 15 December 2020
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► International flights into the ► Individuals entering the ► Travelers are required to ► Immigration applications are still jurisdiction resumed on 1 jurisdiction and those already provide proof of a negative being processed, however August 2020 subject to health present in Kenya are required to COVID-19 test conducted within delays are being observed with and safety protocols laid out by adhere to the measures put in the 96 hours leading up to their respect to visa issuance due to the Ministry of Health as well as place by the local authorities to travel to Kenya. the limited staff working at any local and international civil reduce the spread of the virus. given time, as the authorities try aviation authorities. to reduce congestion at their offices. ► Travelers are required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test conducted in advance of travel in order to gain admission.
Page 59 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Kosovo • Last updated/validated: 20 July 2020
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► Kosovo's borders have ► The quarantine requirement has reopened to foreign citizens, been lifted. who are no longer required to complete a 7-day quarantine period but who are still required to be examined by health workers. The border with Montenegro has reopened, but travelers must prove that they tested negative using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. The borders with Albania and Northern Macedonia are currently open with no restrictions.
Page 60 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Kuwait • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► As of 1 August 2020, international ► All new arrivals to the ► A temporary suspension of all ► In order to be admissible, foreign ► New visa issuance remains on flights are operational again with jurisdiction are subject to a visas into Kuwait has been workers must (1) download the hold until further notice. both residents and citizens able to mandatory 14-day quarantine. implemented by the Kuwaiti Shlonik mobile application prior to enter and leave the jurisdiction. authorities, effective from travel, (2) be in possession of a Exception apply to residents ► A curfew is currently in effect, (negative) polymerase chain 12 March 2020 until further entering from 31 jurisdictions that however the government has reaction (PCR) certificate that was notice. An exception is currently the authorities deemed a high-level announced that it is looking to obtained in the 4 days leading up to being observed for applicants danger to enter the jurisdiction. reduce (and eventually cancel) their entry to Kuwait, (3) accept to holding diplomatic passports. These jurisdictions are India, Iran, the curfew altogether, as it be home quarantined for 14 days China Mainland, Brazil, Colombia, upon arrival, and (4) agree to looks to return to pre COVID-19 Armenia, Bangladesh, the random COVID-19 testing during Philippines, Syria, Spain, conditions. their stay in Kuwait. Singapore, Bosnia and ► A priority system is being put in Herzegovina, Sri Lanka, Nepal, place for foreigners seeking to Iraq, Mexico, Indonesia, Chile, return to Kuwait, with highest Pakistan, Egypt, Lebanon, Hong priority given to doctors, nurses, Kong, Italy, Northern Macedonia, judges, prosecutors and teachers. Moldova, Panama, Peru, Serbia, Next in line are foreigners with Montenegro, Dominican Republic family in Kuwait (including heads of and Kosovo. More information families with dependents in Kuwait) concerning entry restrictions can and dependent visas holders. be found on the website of the civil Finally, others seeking to enter aviation authorities Kuwait who are not part of these https://www.dgca.gov.kw/. first two priority categories will be ► Visitors are not currently evaluated on a case-by-case basis. admissible to Kuwait.
Page 61 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Latvia • Last updated/validated: 16 November 2020
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► EU borders have reopened. The ► Self-isolation is required for ► Issuance of visas depends on Schengen borders have been individuals who have arrived to embassy openings/closures. closed since 17 March 2020 to Latvia from affected area with a Embassies in jurisdictions with all foreign nationals except (1) cumulative indicator that is high COVID-19 numbers are not EU citizens and their family above 50. currently issuing visas. members (including citizens of the UK, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Andorra, Monaco and Switzerland), long-term residents, diplomats, cross- border, healthcare workers, and people transporting goods, and (2) nationals of jurisdictions that are on the European Commission's list of safe jurisdictions.
Page 62 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Lebanon • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► Entry by air is being permitted ► Travelers displaying COVID-19 ► All passengers will be tested for in stages starting 1 July 2020. symptoms or with a travel COVID-19 upon arrival and may history indicating possible be denied admission if they test exposure, may be detained for a positive. 14-day quarantine.
Page 63 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Liechtenstein • Last updated/validated: 14 December 2020
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► Effective 15 June 2020, nationals of ► As of 6 July 2020, travelers ► New visa processing has the United Kingdom and the EU/EEA may be required to quarantine resumed for all application types member states may enter Liechtenstein, whether traveling from a for 10 days upon admission processed by the authorities in Schengen or non-Schengen jurisdiction. when entering from high-risk Liechtenstein. All travel restrictions have been lifted jurisdictions. The list of high-risk for these travelers and the complete jurisdictions can be found here. free movement of persons across the EU/EEA area has been re-established. ► Third-country nationals without a valid Swiss work visa or permit are still not allowed to enter Liechtenstein for leisure and non-urgent business meetings. ► An exception has been made for those who need to attend important business meetings in person that cannot be postponed (e.g. contract negotiations and signings, business inspections or other important assignments). ► Individuals from the following jurisdictions will be allowed to enter Liechtenstein (including for business travel and tourism) subject to pre- COVID-19 entry requirements: Andorra, Australia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Ireland, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, Rwanda, Romania, San Marino, South Korea, Thailand, Uruguay and the Vatican.
Page 64 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Luxembourg • Last updated/validated: 9 December 2020
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► As of 20 July 2020, individuals ► Travelers arriving from high-risk ► Continued from “entry ► The immigration authorities in from the following jurisdictions areas are advised to quarantine restrictions” section. Luxembourg have started to will be allowed to enter for 10 days. A COVID-19 test is ► Third-country nationals residing process “authorization to stay” Luxembourg (including for currently only mandatory if in Morocco are no longer and visa applications. business travel and tourism) travelers display symptoms or if allowed to enter Luxembourg as subject to pre-arrival requested by the authorities. of 14 August 2020. requirements: Australia, China, ► Third-country nationals who are Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, ineligible to enter Luxembourg South Korea, Thailand, will remain barred from entry Singapore, Uruguay. until 31 December 2020 (this ► Third-country nationals above the date may be changed closer to age of 11 who wish to travel to Luxembourg by air from a the end of the calendar year). country not included in the above There are limited exceptions to list, including those with a the entry ban, including for temporary residence permit or a long-term residents, persons residence permit, must present a with a right of residence or who certificate confirming they tested hold a national long-term visa negative for COVID-19 no more issued by an EU or Schengen than 72 hours prior to travel. state, cross-border workers and Exceptions exist for flight crew, passengers in transit. individuals with a stopover flight in Luxembourg who do not leave the airport transit area. ► Continued in “heightened admission” section.
Page 65 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Macau • Last updated/validated: 15 December 2020
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► In general, visitors and foreign non- ► See “Heightened admission” ► Macau residents, non-resident workers and ► Continued from “heighted admission/visa section. visitors who are also residents of mainland application criteria” section resident workers (i.e. Macau Blue China, Hong Kong or Taiwan, have to provide Card Holders) are prohibited from additional documents upon entry, depending ► (c) Taiwan: A negative nucleic acid test entering Macau. Visitors and Blue on the jurisdiction of their departure: certificate issued by a qualified institution within seven days of the intended date of Card holders who are residents of ► (a) mainland China (excluding places listed in arrival is required for entry. Travelers mainland China, Hong Kong or point b below): A negative nucleic acid test arriving from this jurisdiction will also be certificate issued by a qualified institution required to undergo a 14-day medical Taiwan will be prohibited from within seven days of the intended date of entering Macau if they have arrival is required for entry. There will be no observation period upon arrival. traveled overseas to locations other quarantine requirement for travelers ► (d) Hong Kong: A negative nucleic acid test arriving from this jurisdiction. than mainland China, Hong Kong or issued by a qualified testing agency recognized by the Hong Kong SAR Taiwan in the 14 days leading up to ► (b) Travelers who depart from or who have been in these listed places, in the 14 days government conducted within 24 hours of their proposed entry to Macau. leading up to their proposed entry, must the intended date of arrival is required for provide a negative nucleic acid test entry. Travelers arriving from this ► Foreigners who were present in certificate issued by a qualified institution jurisdiction will also be required to undergo mainland China 14 days prior to within 7 days of the intended date of arrival a 14-day medical observation period upon seeking entry to Macau may be and undergo a 14-day medical observation arrival. period at designated facility upon arrival in granted an exemption from the Macau: (1) Hulunbuir of Inner Mongolia: ► (e) All other jurisdictions: Macau residents entry restriction by the local Manzhouli, Zhalainuo'er District, (2) Pudong arriving from these jurisdictions are required to show a negative COVID-19 authorities, on an exceptional, case- New Area of Shanghai: Zhangjiang Township, Zhoupu Town and Zhuqiao nucleic acid test result certificate issued by by-case basis. Township, (3) Chengdu: Pitong Town (Pitong a qualified institution within seven days of Street), Xipu Town (Xipu Subdistrict) and the intended date of arrival. They will also Tangchang Town in Pidu District, and be required to undergo a 14-day medical Tiaodenghe Subdistrict of Chenghua District, observation period upon arrival. Non- (4) Mudanjiang of Heilongjiang Province: resident workers and visitors traveling from Dongning Town in Dongning City, Suifenhe these jurisdictions will be prohibited entry City, and (5) Turpan of Xinjiang Uygur to Macau. Autonomous Region: Gaochang District.
► Continued in “suspension/delays in issuance of new visas” section.
Page 66 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Madagascar • Last updated/validated: 17 November 2020
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► Madagascar has closed its air ► All eligible entrants will be ► While no formal suspension is in ► All eligible entrants will be ► As a consequence of closing its and sea borders. Therefore, no subject to a 14-day quarantine place, visa holders who are required to undergo a borders and embassies abroad, one currently outside of at a government-designated outside of the jurisdiction are polymerase chain reaction (PCR) Madagascar has suspended the Madagascar is being admitted hotel. not able to re-enter due to the test upon arrival in Madagascar. issuance of new visas and work to the jurisdiction. As an current closure of national ports permits until further notice. exception, expatriates who are of entry. ► Exceptionally, the embassy of in France and who possess valid ► As an exception, expatriates Madagascar in London has visas can return to Madagascar who are in France and who started to receive convertible on special flights organized by possess valid visas can return to visa applications but is still the Malagasy government. Madagascar on special flights suspending the issuance of ► Starting 29 October 2020, the organized by the Malagasy convertible visas until further airports in Antsiranana, government. notice. Toamasina, Tolagnaro and Toliara will reopen to flights arriving from the Indian Ocean Islands.
Page 67 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Malawi • Last updated/validated: 15 December 2020
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► Borders and airports are open ► Citizens and permanent ► Individuals from COVID-19 and International flights have residents must undergo a affected jurisdictions may be resumed. However, travelers mandatory 14-day quarantine if denied admission to Malawi even must produce negative COVID- returning to Malawi. if they hold a valid visa that was 19 test results obtained within issued prior to the outbreak of ► Travelers from COVID-19 48 hours of travel to Malawi in the pandemic. affected jurisdictions need to order to be admitted. self-isolate until further notice.
Page 68 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Malaysia • Last updated/validated: 28 October 2020
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► Malaysian citizens, permanent ► All new entrants are subject to a ► Existing, unexpired entry visas, ► See entry restrictions and ► Online submission/filing services residents and foreign nationals with 14-day quarantine at a designated work and dependent permits quarantine/self-isolation offered by the Malaysian a valid work/dependent permit are quarantine center upon entry, along (and approval letters) remain sections. immigration authorities have allowed to enter Malaysia, but there with mandatory health screening valid (i.e. these have not been resumed in full. may be heighted admission criteria and monitoring requirements. suspended or canceled). (e.g. Entry Approval Letter, Travel ► Over-the-counter applications Notice application or the installation ► Expired entry visas, work and submissions are being accepted of the "MySejahtera" app). Foreign nationals are not allowed to enter dependent permits (and by appointment. Malaysia for business or tourism approval letters) are considered purposes at this time due to the null and void. Holders of expired recently-issued Movement Control visas will need to apply for new Order. visas or permits if they are
► The Movement Control Order (MCO) seeking to reside and work in is in effect until 31 December 2020 Malaysia. (subject to change, depending on the situation). Due to the severity of COVID-19 cases in some locations, the Malaysian government has also announced a Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) in several areas, including the federal territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Selangor. The CMSO took effect on 14 October 2020, and has been extended until 9 November 2020.
Page 69 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Malta • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► Restrictions on air travel have been ► Quarantine is obligatory for ► The processing of employment- lifted as of 15 July 2020. Travelers travelers coming from specific based residence applications for arriving from an "amber" country jurisdictions. More information third-country nationals entering are required to produce a negative can be found here. Malta for assignments of one year polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or more resumed on 3 August COVID-19 swab test result on ► Travelers should check with their 2020. The processing of short- arrival. The list is available here. airline to ensure requirements are term assignment applications (for The test must have been taken no adhered to prior to boarding their assignments lasting less than one more than 72 hours prior to arrival flight. year) has resumed as well, with an in Malta. If a negative test is not increased level of scrutiny. presented, a swab test on arrival or a 14 day quarantine period may be ► All new entrants will be subject ► Visa issuance/renewal processing required. health and medical screening, and varies by visa center, and the asked to fill in a passenger locator health and safety conditions in the form, which will enable the health specific locations where those visa authorities to trace them swiftly centers are situated. should the need arise. Further details about passenger locator forms should be sought from the public health authorities.
Page 70 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Mexico • Last updated/validated: 4 January 2021
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► Citizens, residents and ► Most Mexican consulates have foreigners, who develop resumed issuing visas, however symptoms of COVID-19, are some remain closed due to local advised to quarantine for 14 infection rates in their locations. days in the location where they are staying (e.g. hotel). Individuals who develop serious symptoms of COVID-19 or test positive for COVID-19 should seek medical advice and follow the instructions of the local medical authorities.
Page 71 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Moldova • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► As of 1 September 2020, entry ► Effective 1 September 2020, all ► Visa issuance has been ► The issuance of new visas has through state border crossings is travelers granted entry from a suspended despite other been suspended for foreign allowed for foreigners and stateless jurisdiction listed in the red zone essential immigration functions nationals arriving from persons arriving from jurisdictions listed in the green zone. will be asked to self-isolate for continuing for the time being. jurisdictions listed in the red 14 days. zone. ► Entry through state border crossings is currently prohibited for foreigners ► The list of red zone jurisdictions and stateless persons coming from or is updated every 14 days. The transiting through jurisdictions listed list dated 4 December 2020 can in the red zone, with the exception of: (1) family members of Moldovan be accessed here. citizens, (2) long-stay visa and residence permit holders, (3) persons traveling in a professional capacity with relevant immigration documents, (4) members of accredited diplomatic missions and consular offices, international organizations and their families; (4) persons in transit, including those repatriated under consular protection, (5) persons traveling for health and humanitarian reasons, (6) cross-border workers, (7) transport personnel carrying goods, and (8) crews and service personnel of aircraft, ships, brigades and trains.
Page 72 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Mongolia • Last updated/validated: 28 October 2020
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► Lockdown has been extended ► All entrants to the country are ► Issuance of new visas is until 31 December 2020. required to quarantine for 21 suspended for the time being. Mongolians living abroad who days. Business visas will be granted to wish to return to Mongolia may individuals who have a crucial arrange to enter on chartered need to visit Mongolia. flights. All entrants will be Employment (HG) visas and required to undergo a Foreign Investor (T) visas will mandatory 21-day quarantine only be issued at the discretion at designated facilities upon of the issuing agencies. entry into Mongolia. All entrants need to cover their own travel costs and designated facilities (e.g. hotel) expenses. Valid residency work permit holders may enter Mongolia via chartered flights.
Page 73 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Mozambique • Last updated/validated: 15 December 2020
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► Entry to Mozambique is only ► All travelers arriving in ► Travelers holding previously ► Issuance of new visas has permitted on the basis of a Mozambique are subject to a 10- issued visas who have not resumed at certain Mozambican reciprocity agreement. day mandatory self-quarantine entered Mozambique, may use embassies. period after which they will be their valid/unexpired visas to ► All travelers are required to re-tested for COVID-19 (at their enter the jurisdiction. present a negative COVID-19 own cost). Those who test test result performed 72 hours positive will be asked to self- before the departure, from isolate unless there is a medical their country of origin. reason to be hospitalized.
► Alternatively, they can observe a 14-day mandatory self- quarantine period.
Page 74 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Netherlands • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► Dutch nationals are advised not to travel ► Travelers arriving from high-risk ► Continued from “entry restrictions” ► Non-EU travelers entering the ► Residents living in jurisdictions for unless it is essential. Citizens who are areas are strongly advised to self- section Netherlands from outside the EU or which the EU travel ban has been abroad may repatriate. quarantine for 10 days. Schengen area are required to lifted may apply for visas. Residents
► A travel ban impacting entry into the EU is present a negative COVID-19 test of jurisdictions that are not ► Citizens of non-EU/EEA jurisdictions currently in effect. The following groups are result issued 72 hours prior to currently permitted to enter the can transit to a jurisdiction outside exempted from the travel ban: (1) EU/EEA boarding when traveling by air or Netherlands are not eligible to citizens and their family members (including the EU/EEA via the Amsterdam sea. Certain categories of travelers submit visa applications unless the citizens of the UK, Iceland, Liechtenstein, airport, if they remain in the non- Norway, Switzerland, Andorra, San Marino, may be exempted from this applicant is otherwise exempt from Schengen transit area of the airport Vatican City and Monaco), (2) third-country requirement. travel restrictions and authorized to and have a ticket for a confirmed nationals holding a residence card or a enter the jurisdiction. Visa residence permit in accordance with connecting flight to an airport applications currently in process Directive 2003/109/EC (the LTR Directive) outside the Schengen area that and their family members, (3) third-country and visa applications for which a departs within 48 hours of their nationals who derive their right of residence related flight/trip has been canceled arrival in Amsterdam. from other European Directives or from the will be denied. national law of a Member State and their family members, (4) holders of a long-stay ► Residents of Australia, Japan, New ► Applications for visas based on visa (MVV), (5) holders of a residence permit and their family members, (6) third-country Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South events/meetings that have been nationals who are essential workers or have Korea, Thailand, and Uruguay are canceled as a result of COVID-19 an essential travel need, (7) persons in need also exempt from the travel ban. related measures will be denied with of international protection, (8) students Nationals of mainland China will be the reason “travel destination (provided they are in possession of a residence notification letter issued by the allowed to enter the Netherlands canceled.” Dutch immigration authorities as: ''Study''), once EU travelers are allowed to and (9) highly skilled migrants (provided enter Mainland China. they are in possession of a notification letter issued by the Dutch immigration authorities for residence as: Highly skilled migrant).
► Continued in “suspension of existing (valid) visas”
Page 75 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] New Zealand • Last updated/validated: 16 November 2020
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► The New Zealand border is temporarily closed to ► All travelers who are allowed ► New Zealand has entered into transit arrangements ► The Expression of Interest (EOI) selections most foreigners. New Zealand citizens, permanent with various jurisdictions to facilitate repatriation. for the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) and residents, residents who have already arrived in New entry to New Zealand are required Travelers who transit through New Zealand must Parent Category resident visas have been Zealand as a resident, residents with valid travel to self-isolate in a government- remain airside and transit for no more than 24 conditions, and their immediate family (spouses, hours, they cannot enter New Zealand and they suspended. dependent children under the age of 24, and legal approved facility for 14 days upon must satisfy the following requirements: (1) they guardians) who hold a valid relationship-based visa arrival at their own expense. Fees do not require an NZeTA or transit visa, or (2) they ► Furthermore, the ballot registration for will be permitted entry to New Zealand. Diplomats hold a NZeTA and are allowed to transit on an the Samoan Quota and Pacific Access who hold a post in New Zealand may also travel to for managed isolation vary NZeTA, or (3) they require (and hold) a transit visa. New Zealand without first seeking approval. Category and 19 Working Holiday Scheme As of 7 November 2020, the ability to transit Australian citizens and permanent residents who live according to the specific situation arrangements that were due to open in the through New Zealand to China is temporarily in New Zealand can also return, however: (1) they next six months have been deferred. must provide acceptable evidence at airport check-in (i.e. fees apply for primary suspended. to demonstrate they live in New Zealand, and (2) applicants, with additional fees in ► Their next destination after New Zealand must be ► Processing of onshore visa applications their travel history will be reviewed prior to being one of the jurisdictions in the agreed list. Their next permitted to board a flight. It is highly recommended place for dependent family have resumed. All offshore processing destination after New Zealand is an approved that a pre-assessment be requested from members). The charges will apply remains on hold, therefore applicants who Immigration New Zealand prior to intended transit hub to get to one of the jurisdictions in the are outside of New Zealand should expect agreed list. departure in these circumstances. Border exceptions to all travelers permitted entry significant delays. can also be made on a case-by-case basis by the local into New Zealand including New ► Individuals holding a current New Zealand authorities for those travelers deemed to have a ► Immigration New Zealand has imposed a critical purpose (i.e., health care workers, other Zealand citizens and residents temporary work visa who are overseas may apply essential workers and humanitarian travel) for being for a border exception to enter New Zealand on the suspension on visa applications from in New Zealand. Australian citizens, as well as except in certain situations. basis of being eligible for “other critical worker” or offshore individuals until 8 February 2021. "ordinarily resident in New Zealand" status. An citizens of visa waiver countries who are partners of ► As of 3 November 2020, all The suspension prevents offshore "other critical worker" option is available to New Zealand citizens and residents, may request an migrants from applying for New Zealand exception and be authorized to travel to New travelers must pre-register for a workers who will be performing work that is of Zealand. Individuals who hold temporary New managed isolation space prior to strategic economic importance to New Zealand visas, including Talent, Essential Skills and Zealand visas on the basis of their relationship with a with skills and experience not readily available in Specific Purpose work visas. This New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, or who their travel, and carry their New Zealand, and who meet the criteria for the suspension does not affect relationship- ordinarily reside in New Zealand, no longer need to allocation voucher when checking grant of a border exemption. An "ordinarily based visas for partners and dependent travel with their New Zealand citizen/resident family resident in New Zealand" option is also now member to be granted an exception. Partners and in for their flight (and on arrival in available. This options allows some temporary visa children of New Zealand citizens and dependents of New Zealand work- or student- visa New Zealand). holders who are currently stranded overseas but residents, visas for diplomatic, consular holders (e.g. PhD and post-graduate students) will have strong and ongoing links to New Zealand, to and official staff and accompanying also granted an exception. As of 10 August 2020, for return to New Zealand. To be considered for the a border exception request under the “other critical dependents, Antarctic Traveller Visitor new border exception, individuals will have to Visas and Antarctic Work visas, and workers” stream, an application fee of NZ$380 will demonstrate a strong and ongoing connection to apply. For border exemption requests under all other New Zealand with realistic prospects of remaining Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) categories, an application fee of NZ$45 will apply. in the country long term. Limited visas.
Page 76 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Nicaragua • Last updated/validated: 15 December 2020
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► Citizens and foreigners must ► Citizens and foreigners who test ► Airport officials are taking the carry proof of having tested positive for COVID-19 are being following measures in negative to a polymerase chain quarantined (and hospitalized if connection with new arrivals to reaction (PCR) test within 72 needed). the jurisdiction: hours of entry to the ► Taking the temperature of new jurisdiction. Citizens and entrants, foreigners with fever or respiratory symptoms may not ► Referring foreigners traveling enter the jurisdiction. If the from jurisdictions with high citizen or foreigner tests numbers of COVID-19 cases (or negative for the PCR test and presenting symptoms upon does not have fever or arrival) to medical facilities for respiratory symptoms, she/he monitoring, will be able to circulate freely in ► Quarantining (and hospitalizing) the jurisdiction. She/he will foreigners who tested positive receive follow-ups by telephone (as needed). from the health personnel during their initial 14 days in the jurisdiction. Furthermore, citizens and foreigners who developed symptoms of COVID- 19 after entering the jurisdiction will be quarantined.
Page 77 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Nigeria • Last updated/validated: 15 December 2020
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► Starting 5 September 2020, all ► In-bound passengers displaying ► All foreign nationals who reside in ► Issuance of new visas is passengers are required to COVID-19 symptoms on arrival Nigeria and whose permits have currently suspended. show a negative COVID-19 or during screening, will not be expired while they were outside polymerase chain reaction allowed to self-quarantine and Nigeria during the lockdown, will be allowed to re-enter with the expired (PCR) test result issued by the will be placed in institutional permit. They will be expected to jurisdiction of departure within quarantine. renew their permit within 60 days 72 hours but no longer than ► All passengers must present of arrival. seven days, prior to boarding. themselves at the sample ► Individuals who have been issued a collection center on the seventh Subject to Regularization (STR) visa day of their arrival for a COVID- by a Nigerian High Commission 19 polymerase chain reaction abroad during the lockdown will be (PCR) test. allowed to enter Nigeria using their STR visa even if it has expired, provided that the visa holder sends a revalidation request to the Nigerian immigration authorities via email. Provided the authorities approve the request, they will issue a revalidation approval letter which will give the traveler 30 days to enter Nigeria. These individuals should then regularize their immigration status as soon as possible after entering the country.
Page 78 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] North Macedonia • Last updated/validated: 14 December 2020
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► As of 17 June 2020, all borders in ► The 14-day self-isolation and ► See the “entry restrictions” North Macedonia are open. state quarantine requirements section. ► As of 1 July 2020, the airports in have been lifted. Skopje and Ohrid are open (with enhanced sanitary measures and travel protocols). Citizens of other jurisdictions can use any/all border crossings when entering into, or transiting, through North Macedonia. ► As of 11 November 2020, the requirement for citizens of Albania and Serbia to provide proof of a negative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT- PCR) COVID-19 test when entering into, or transiting through, North Macedonia, is abolished on the basis of reciprocity with these two countries. ► As of 20 November 2020, the government declared a state of crisis, which will remain in place for 30 days. No additional health, testing or immigration measures were introduced as a result of the new state of crisis.
Page 79 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Norway • Last updated/validated: 14 December 2020
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► The following groups of ► All persons arriving from countries ► All persons arriving from ► Norway’s embassies and individuals are authorized to (or Nordic regions) classified as countries (or Nordic regions) consulates have resumed the enter Norway: (1) Norwegian high risk are required to quarantine classified as high risk, are issuance of new visas, however citizens and residents (holders in a designated quarantine hotel for required to test negative for a delays in visa issuance are 10 days, unless the new entrants of work/residence permits), (2) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) expected. Residence permits are entering for employment and citizens of EEA member states their employer arranged for suitable or rapid antigen COVID-19 prior may be issued with limitations entering to work in Norway and single-room accommodations, in to arrival in Norway, and to on entry (including temporary their accompanying dependent which case the new entrants may present the test results (which suspensions of entry visas). family members (visa quarantine in said single-room must be in Norwegian, Danish, However, most residence requirements may apply to the accommodations. Individuals who English, French, German or permits for studies and work are family members), (3) holders of own property in Norway may be Swedish) upon arrival. being granted without work permits for skilled workers allowed to quarantine on their limitations on entry. ► Several groups of individuals are and their accompanying family property, instead of at a quarantine hotel. It is also possible to undergo exempt from this requirement, members, (4) individuals who quarantine elsewhere if the person including: (1) Norwegian are exempt from work permit has access to property where one citizens, (2) persons with a requirements due to their can avoid contact with other confirmed (laboratory-tested) technical skills and expertise, persons. The traveler must provide COVID-19 infection within the and (5) third-country nationals written confirmation from the last six months predating their working for an EU employer in owner that the property has a entry to Norway, and (3) an EU state if the employer separate bathroom and kitchen, and persons who regularly commute sends the employee on is available for quarantine. to Norway from Sweden or assignment to Norway (i.e. the Individuals who do not abide by these rules are subject to fines. Finland in order to work. so-called "Vander Elst" route).
Page 80 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Oman • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► As of 1 October 2020, ► Travelers, including Omani ► Current valid visas that were ► All travelers who will be allowed to enter ► Processing for new visa Oman will be required to: (1) hold health international flights to Oman citizens, entering Oman by land, issued previously are not insurance that covers the cost associated requests is currently on hold. have resumed, and the sea or air are required to formally suspended, however with medical treatment and/or death following individuals are quarantine, with one exception visa holders are subject to the resulting from COVID-19, and (2) download and register on the government-mandated authorized to enter Oman for travelers who remain in current bar on entry to Oman. Tarassud+ and HMushrif mobile phone without obtaining advance Oman for seven days or less and applications.
approval from the Foreign test negative for COVID-19 after ► Travelers who are 15 or older must take a Ministry in Oman: Gulf arrival in the Sultanate. polymerase chain reaction (PCR) COVID-19 Cooperation Council (GCC) Travelers entering for eight test no more than 96 hours after arriving in Oman. Those entering for seven days or citizens, foreign diplomats and days or longer are required to less who test positive for COVID-19 will be foreigners holding valid quarantine for 14 days, required to quarantine for 14 days from the residency visas. Citizens of regardless of the result of their moment the test result is obtained. Travelers entering for eight days or longer Oman remain authorized to COVID-19 test taken after their must wear a tracking bracelet and enter the Sultanate. arrival in the Sultanate. quarantine for 14 days (even if they test negative for COVID-19). They may consult ► Travel to Oman for ► Oman has allowed a series of the HMushrif app to identify the nearest medical center where they can have their tourism/leisure remains businesses to resume their bracelet removed at the end of the prohibited. activities, loosening restrictions quarantine period. imposed to stop the spread of ► Effective 13 November 2020, ► Foreign nationals entering for work must COVID-19. also obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) land borders have reopened. from the sponsoring company in Oman. A Inbound travel is permitted soft copy of the NOC has to be shown subject to current entry before boarding at the port of embarkation and produced if and when asked by the requirements and restrictions. concerned authorities during the course of journey and also upon arrival in Oman.
Page 81 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Pakistan • Last updated/validated: 14 September 2020
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► All international and domestic ► All recently admitted individuals ► All work visa applications flight operations remain (whether Pakistani or (initial/renewal) are currently suspended, however some foreigners) were directed to being processed by the Board of airlines have resumed their quarantine centers. Investment. Processing delays flights. may be expected.
Page 82 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Panama • Last updated/validated: 14 December 2020
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► The international airport ► All travelers will be required to ► New entrants must complete a ► All administrative immigration reopened for international self-isolate for seven days on declaration (provided by their proceedings have resumed. flights on 12 October 2020. arrival, and submit to COVID-19 airline), in which they agree to New entrants need to provide a testing upon completion of the abide by local health and safety certificate issued by an seven-day period. Individuals measures, and self-isolate upon authorized laboratory no more who test negative will be arrival. than 48 hours prior to travel, allowed to cease their self- confirming they took a isolation. Those who test polymerase chain reaction positive will be subject to an (PCR) COVID-19 test and tested additional 14-day isolation negative. New entrants who fail period (for a total isolation to obtain a negative PCR test period of 21 days). Individuals certificate will be required to who fail to obtain a negative stricter quarantine PCR COVID-19 test prior to requirements upon arrival. entry should expect to quarantine for up to 21 days ► Effective 12 December 2020, after arrival. the Government of Venezuela canceled all departure flights to Panama.
Page 83 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Papua New Guinea • Last updated/validated: 12 October 2020
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► International travel to Papua New ► All eligible inbound travelers Guinea is currently prohibited must undergo a 14-day with limited exceptions, including quarantine at a designated hotel for individuals arriving from the (at their own expense). Those Cairns Airport (Queensland, arriving from Australia Australia) or Brisbane Airport (excluding Victoria), New (Queensland, Australia). Zealand or certain Pacific Designated ports of entry into Islands may seek permission to Papua New Guinea include self-isolate at home for seven Jacksons Airport (by aircraft), days; however, where Motukea Port, Port Moresby, PNG segregating at home is not Ports Rabaul, PNG Ports Morobe and PNG Ports Madang (by possible or if the traveler's vessel). Traditional border home is outside Port Moresby, crossing is not permitted. Anyone then a seven-day hotel seeking to enter requires a travel quarantine at a designated hotel exemption approved by the must be observed. Controller/his delegate and a negative Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) COVID-19 test result, obtained within the 7 days prior to travel to Papua New Guinea.
Page 84 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Paraguay • Last updated/validated: 14 December 2020
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► As of 21 October 2020, 13 ► Citizens, residents and visitors ► New entrants to Paraguay are ► The authorities resumed Immigration control points are must quarantine at home or the subject to enhanced health processing of new visas starting now open for entry by citizens, location where they will reside requirements as a condition of 19 May 2020. residents and visitors to (e.g. hotel) for 14 days upon entry, including: (1) completion of an electronic "Traveler Health Paraguay subject to enhanced arrival. The quarantine period may be reduced to seven days if Card" (this can be completed on the health requirements (see the website of the Paraguayan Ministry "heightened admission criteria" the traveler: (1) possesses a reverse transcription polymerase of Public Health no more than 24 section for more information). hours prior to entry), (2) chain reaction (RT-PCR) test Travelers are advised to presentation of a negative RT-PCR- certificate obtained no more than confirm health requirements test certificate issued no more than 72 hours prior to entry, which with the port of entry through 72 hours prior to travel (and confirms that the traveler tested submitting to a second RT-PCR test which they will enter Paraguay negative for COVID-19, and (2) in advance of travel as these on their seventh day in Paraguay if takes a second RT-PCR test (and they will remain in the country for may vary with little to no notice test negative) on the seventh day seven days or more), and (3) to the public. of the quarantine period. possession of an international Travelers who will remain in medical insurance card/plan that Paraguay for less than seven days ensures health coverage (including may be exempted from the care relating to COVID-19). quarantine requirement provided Travelers who have tested positive they enter with a (negative) RT- for COVID-19 prior to their travel to PCR test certificate obtained no Paraguay may be subject to more more than 72 hours prior to rigorous testing requirements (to be entry. confirmed by the Paraguayan authorities on a case-by-case basis).
Page 85 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Peru • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► As of 23 October 2020, Peru's land, air ► Foreigners who develop ► Continued from “entry restrictions” ► New entrants to Peru will be ► Work visa ("visa de trabajo" and "visa and maritime borders have reopened for symptoms of COVID-19 after section required to undergo a de trabajador designado") issuance to travel from the following jurisdictions entering into Peru are advised polymerase chain reaction (PCR) applicants who are located outside of (regardless of the traveler's citizenship ► In addition, foreigners who hold Peru is currently on hold. country or immigration status in the to quarantine for 14 days in the valid Peruvian visas may be eligible COVID-19 test, test negative for following jurisdictions): Argentina location where they are staying to enter into Peru from a country COVID-19 and obtain a ► Work visa issuance to applicants who (provided Argentina opens its borders), (e.g. hotel). Individuals who other than those listed above, after certificate confirming the same are applying from within Peru has Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, resumed. Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, develop serious symptoms of receiving special authorization from no more than 72 hours prior to Ecuador, El Salvador, Jamaica, Mexico, COVID-19 or test positive for a Peruvian consulate in the travel to Peru. Individuals who ► Business visa ("visa de negocios") Panama, Paraguay, the United States COVID-19 should seek medical jurisdiction where they are fail to comply with this issuance to applicants who are and Uruguay. currently located (and if approval is located outside of Peru varies from advice and follow the requirement (i.e. who fail to granted, the consulate will consulate to consulate. ► Inbound air travel is currently only instructions of the local medical coordinate with the relevant airline complete a test, or who test permitted from the following locations: authorities. positive) will not be admitted ► Foreigners who are eligible to receive Guayaquil, La Paz, Quito, Bogota, Santa to place approved travelers on into Peru. a business visa on arrival should note Cruz, Cali, Medellin, Panama, Asuncion, special flights into Peru). that the Peruvian authorities are not Montevideo, Santiago, Cartagena, ► Similarly, Peruvian citizens may be currently stamping the passports of Houston, Atlanta, Los Angeles, New these individuals, as a health and York, Orlando, Miami, Mexico City, eligible to enter into Peru from a safety measure. Accordingly, Cancun, Sao Paulo, Brasilia, Porto jurisdiction other than those listed foreigners who will apply for a Alegre, Iguazu, Buenos Aires, Mendoza, above, after receiving special business visa on arrival should make Rosario, Cordoba and Tucuman authorization from a Peruvian sure to communicate to the (provided Argentina opens it borders), consulate in the jurisdiction where San Jose, Havana, Punta Cana, San border/immigration officer that they they are currently located (and if Salvador, Montego Bay, and Toronto, are entering for business. In addition, Madrid, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Paris approval is granted, the consulate they should retain their supporting and London. will coordinate with the relevant documents (e.g. invitation letter) in airline to place approved travelers the unlikely event of an immigration ► Continued in “suspension of existing on special flights into Peru). (valid) visas” section. audit/control.
Page 86 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Philippines • Last updated/validated: 14 December 2020
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► Foreign nationals in possession of the following ► Metro Manila is expected to remain ► Visas previously issued to ► All visa-free privileges including ► Philippines Embassies and visa categories are banned from entering: (1) under a general community quarantine Those under Visa Waiver Agreements (i.e., foreign nationals are deemed those based on Visa Waiver Consulates has temporarily AJACS, AJACSSUK, FSC), (2) Special Visas until 30 September 2020. canceled unless they were Agreements are temporarily suspended visa issuance to ALL (i.e., SRRV and ABTC), (3) Those who fall under Executive Order No. 408, s. 1960 (non-visa ► This means that the majority of the issued: suspended. foreign nationals. required jurisdictions under EO408), (4) population on the island is strictly Holders of Hong Kong, Macau, Macau- required to stay indoors unless going ► To accredited Foreign ► The Department of Foreign ► Local authorities in charge of Portuguese and British National Overseas out to purchase basic necessities. All passports, (5) Immigrant and Non-Immigrant Government and Affairs may approve an processing work visas and work Visas (9g visa). forms of mass transportation are International Organization endorsement for an inbound permits have resumed suspended. ► Whereas foreign nationals in possession of the officials and/or their travel ban exemption for a operations, but with reduced following visa categories will be allowed entry: ► All arriving passengers are required to dependents Philippines company on a staff. ► (1) 13 quota, 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E and 13G visas undergo a reverse transcription discretionary basis. ► To foreign spouses and ► (2) RA7919 visas (legal resident status through polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) a Social Integration Program in the Philippines) COVID-19 swab test administered by children of Filipino nationals. ► (3) EO324 visas (acquired permanent residency the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ). New under E.O. No. 324) entrants must remain in a government- ► By agencies other than the ► (4) Native-Born visas designated quarantine facility or BOQ- Department of Foreign ► (5) Balikbayan under RA6768 (Filipino citizens and accompanying foreign spouse and children, approved quarantine hotel while Affairs. and former Filipino citizens and their waiting for the test results. Travelers accompanying dependents) whose test results are positive will be ► (6) Special Investor's Resident Visa (SIRV) for transferred to a designated hospital ► Visas issued in the Philippines by business and economic zone visas, including for further medical care. Travelers Aurora Pacific Economic Zone (APECO), Subic the Bureau of Immigration whose test results are negative will be Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), Authority remain valid. of the Freeport area of Bataan (AFAB), allowed to leave the government- Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA) and designated facility and undergo a 14- Clark Development Corporation (CDC) day quarantine at home or at an ► (7) 9d visas appropriate local monitoring facility. ► (8) 47(a)(2) visas ► (9) EO226 visas
Page 87 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Poland • Last updated/validated: 14 December 2020
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► Entry restrictions apply to ► Many travelers will be required to ► A number of Polish Consulates have nationals of all non-EU/EFTA self-isolate for 14 days. Exceptions stopped accepting some type of (European Free Trade Agreement) to the quarantine requirement are visa applications until further member states with limited available, including for the notice. Some Visa Application exceptions, including for family following: EU/EEA/Swiss citizens Centers (VAC) have resumed limited members of Polish citizens, Polish and their family members, Polish processing of new visa applications permanent or long-term residents, permanent resident permit holders, (e.g. Brest, Grodno, London, Minsk, Polish work permit holders, EU holders of long term EU residence Ukraine, Turkey, China mainland). residence permit holders (who are permits (transit only permitted), Applicants are advised to check allowed to transit through Poland representatives of international with the visa application center with to another EU state) and registered organizations and their family jurisdiction over their place of seasonal workers. members, students (and their residence to confirm the latest ► The Polish authorities have guardians where applicable) and services being offered by the visa temporarily banned flights arriving researchers. application center. from the following destinations: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Georgia, Jordan, Armenia, Kosovo, Macedonia, Serbia, and the United States (except for flights departing from airports in the states of Illinois and New York). The current restrictions will remain in place until 31 December 2020, and may be updated/modified after this date.
Page 88 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Portugal • Last updated/validated: 3 December 2020
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► Entry to Portugal by land has been permitted ► All residence visa applications are since 1 July 2020. currently being processed. ► International flights into Portugal remain largely canceled with a number of notable ► It is now also possible to apply for exceptions. ► International flights into Portugal are temporary stay visas for permitted from the following locations: assignments of up to 1 year as well European Union (EU) countries, Schengen as residence visas for highly member states (Liechtenstein, Norway, Iceland and Switzerland) and the United qualified activities. Kingdom. ► ► International flights are permitted from the Schengen visa application following locations provided there is a processing by the Portuguese reciprocity agreement in place with these authorities has resumed for countries (i.e. Portuguese citizens are situations involving essential travel allowed to travel to these countries via international flights): Canada, South Korea, only. Tunisia, China, Australia, New Zealand, Rwanda, Uruguay, Georgia, Thailand, Japan, Hong Kong and Macau. ► In addition to the above, entry may be permitted when considered "essential." This includes entry by third-country nationals with a valid Portuguese residence permit in Portugal, and third-country nationals entering for professional, study, family reunion, health or humanitarian reasons (provided there is a reciprocity agreement in place which extends entry rights to Portuguese citizens for similar purposes). These travelers must take a COVID-19 test within the 72 hours immediately preceding their travel, and they must have tested negative (and carry proof of the same) in order to enter Portugal.
Page 89 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Qatar • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► Qatar ID holders returning to Qatar from ► All new entrants - including ► Current valid visas that were ► Qatar Airways has announced ► Processing for new visa “low-risk” jurisdictions between 1 August 2020 and 15 September 2020, were Qatari ID card holders and issued previously are not that, starting 13 August 2020, requests is currently on hold. required to obtain advance approval from the foreign diplomats - must formally suspended, however airline passengers traveling Qatar authorities. quarantine upon arrival into visa holders are subject to the from certain foreign airports will ► Foreigners with a sponsored work Qatar for a period of 1 week current bar on entry to Qatar. have to present a document permit/employment visa were able to return to Qatar starting 1 August 2020. (down from 14 days previously). confirming they tested negative All new entrants entering from for COVID-19 prior to boarding ► All inbound passengers are required to: (1) download the Ehteraz mobile application jurisdictions on the "green list" their flights. Consult the website prior to travel, and (2) adhere to the emitted by the Ministry of Public of Qatar Airlines for more quarantine procedures applicable to the jurisdiction from which they traveled. List (which can be accessed information, including a list of https://covid19.moph.gov.qa/E approved test facilities where ► Residents who are currently in Qatar and who wish to travel abroad and return to Qatar will N/Pages/Countries-Classified- the COVID-19 tests can be automatically receive an exceptional entry Low-Risk-of-COVID-19.aspx), taken. permit upon departure. The resident or their employer will be able to print the exceptional can quarantine at home, ► Those arriving from “low-risk” entry permit from the Ministry of Interior’s whereas those entering from a jurisdictions” (including Qatar ID website at any point after the resident has jurisdiction that is not on the departed Qatar. The request for an holders) will be subject to exceptional entry permit will no longer be green list will be required to COVID-19 testing upon arrival submitted through the “Qatar Portal” quarantine at a hotel or at a website. The permit will be automatically and will be required to sign an government designated facility. generated upon registration of the resident’s attestation confirming they will departure from Qatar. Those who quarantine at a observe a mandatory seven-day ► Residents who are currently outside of Qatar government facility will be quarantine. After the seven-day will not be granted an exceptional entry required to quarantine for 14 permit automatically. They will still need to quarantine period, they will be access the “Qatar Portal” website to obtain days (as opposed to 1 week). an exceptional entry permit to return to re-tested, and if positive, they Qatar. will be isolated.
Page 90 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Romania • Last updated/validated: 9 December 2020
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► As of 14 November 2020, the ► Travelers arriving from ► As of 25 November 2020, long term visa jurisdictions with per capita case applications for essential travel can be state of alert has been submitted to the Romanian consulates in extended for an additional 30 growth equal to or less than the following locations: Diplomatic days. Non-EU citizens are Romania’s are exempt from the Missions/Consular Posts of Romania in 14-day isolation period. The list of member states of the EU/EEA and in the prohibited from entering the Swiss Confederation, Abuja (Nigeria), jurisdiction under the state of eligible jurisdictions can be found Amman (Jordan), Ankara (Turkey), alert with some exceptions, here. Baghdad (Iraq), Bălți (Moldova), Bangkok (Thailand), Beijing (China), Belgrade including for legal residents, (Serbia), Cahul (Moldova), Cernivtsi ► Additional exceptions exist for a family members of Romanian (Ukraine), Chișinău (Moldova), Colombo (Sri variety of individuals, including citizens, professionals (under Lanka), Dakar (Senegal), Erbil (Iraq), Haifa the following: (1) essential (Israel), Hanoi (Vietnam), Harare certain circumstances) and workers, (2) airlines pilots and (Zimbabwe), Hong Kong (Hong Kong), Istanbul (Turkey), Izmir (Turkey), Kiev those transit through the crew members, (3) diplomats, and jurisdiction. (Ukraine), Khartoum (Sudan), Kuwait (4) travelers entering Romania for (Kuwait), Lima (Peru), Miami (USA), less than 72 hours, carrying a Montevideo (Uruguay), Moscow (Russian negative result for a SARS-CoV-2 Federation), Nairobi (Kenya), Odessa (Ukraine), Podgorica (Montenegro), Rabat test taken within 72 hours of their (Morocco), Sankt Petersburg (Russian proposed entry. Federation), Santiago de Chile (Chile), Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina), Seoul (Korea), Shanghai (China), Singapore ► The quarantine period may be (Singapore), Skopje (Republic of North ended after 10 days, provided the Macedonia), Solotvino (Ukraine), Sydney traveler is tested for SARS-CoV-2 (Australia), Tbilisi (Georgia), Teheran (Iran), on the 8th day of their quarantine Tel Aviv (Israel), Tirana (Albania), Tokyo (Japan), Tunis (Tunisia), Vršac (Serbia), and the result comes back Washington (USA). Visa processing at other negative. consulates remains suspended until further notice.
Page 91 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Russia • Last updated/validated: 9 December 2020
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► All foreign nationals are banned ► Travelers entering for work ► Foreigners who are otherwise ► All eligible entrants are required ► Work visa extensions are from entering Russia until must stay in quarantine for 14 not currently allowed to enter to show a negative polymerase currently possible only for further notice, except for days from the date of their the Russia remain inadmissible chain reaction (PCR) test result. foreigners who reside in Russia. citizens of Belarus, Cuba, arrival. even if they hold visas with a The processing of invitation Japan, Kazakhstan, valid expiry date. letters has been temporarily Kyrgyzstan, Egypt, the UAE, ► Russia has also mandated a self- suspended except for Highly the Maldives, Serbia, South isolation regime for all citizens Qualified Specialists and those Korea, Switzerland, Tanzania, introduced in almost every entering to install or maintain Turkey, Ethiopia, Seychelles region of Russia (with foreign equipment, included in and the UK. regulations varying in each the special list approved by the ► Exceptions are available for Federal Security Service of region). Penalties and fines may permanent residents, Russia and the Ministry of be issued for non-compliance. diplomats, airplane/train/ship Internal Affairs. There are no crew members, freight business or tourist visa transportation drivers, and application restrictions for foreign specialists entering citizens of Belarus, Cuba, Egypt, Russia to install or maintain Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, foreign equipment, and highly Maldives, Serbia, South Korea, qualified specialists included in Switzerland, Tanzania, Turkey, the special list approved by the the UAE, Ethiopia, Seychelles or Russian authorities. the UK. ► Passengers are allowed to transit through Russia in some circumstances.
Page 92 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Rwanda • Last updated/validated: 15 December 2020
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► The Kigali International Airport ► All travelers entering Rwanda by ► See “entry restrictions” and reopened on 1 August 2020. land will be subject to “quarantine” sections. ► Passengers arriving in Kigali are mandatory quarantine in required to present a negative accordance with the local health COVID-19 polymerase chain guidelines and at their own cost. reaction (PCR) test result, where the test was taken no more than ► After providing proof of a 120 hours prior to travel to negative PCR COVID-19 test (as Rwanda. They must also comply outlined in the entry restrictions with local health guidelines. section), arriving passengers ► Visitors will be taken to the must then enter quarantine at a designated quarantine hotel of designated hotel while they their choice upon arrival. At the await the results of a second hotel, they will be tested again COVID-19 test, taken on arrival. for COVID-19 at their own If the test results are negative, expense. They will be required to the travelers are free to leave quarantine in their hotel room quarantine. If the results are until they test negative for positive, they will be required to COVID-19. enter a government treatment ► Land borders continue to be facility. closed except for goods and cargo, and returning Rwandan citizens and legal residents.
Page 93 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Saudi Arabia • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► As of 15 March 2020, holders of previously ► All recently admitted individuals ► Saudi Arabia has extended the ► The authorities recently introduced new ► (continued from “heightened admission” issued (valid) visas are restricted from entry must complete a mandatory validity of certain expired visas travel admission criteria. All travelers to section) to the Kingdom until further notice. Saudi Arabia must: 14-day quarantine. and resident cards for foreign ► (5) update their local home location in ► While the authorities have indicated that ► (1) have a printed, negative COVID-19 Saudi Arabia through the Tatamman app there may be some exceptions to flight nationals whose immigration ► As of 25 March 2020, travel PCR test certificate issued from an within eight hours of arrival. suspensions, these are likely to be made on documents expired in the past a case-by-case basis. within the Kingdom (between approved laboratory within the 48 hours few months while COVID-19 ► (6) monitor themselves for symptoms of cities) is prohibited. immediately preceding their arrival to ► Saudi Arabia has announced the resumption related measures were in effect. Saudi Arabia (SMS and digital COVID-19. In the event that travelers of domestic flights starting 31 May 2020. certificates will not be accepted), develop symptoms, they must ► As of 26 April 2020, some of immediately call 937 or go to a primary ► Effective 15 September 2020, citizens of the domestic travel restrictions ► (2) complete a health declaration form healthcare center Gulf Cooperation Council member states and foreigners holding an exit and re-entry visa, put into place (between cities) and submit the same to the health control center upon arrival at the ► (7) conduct a daily health assessment work permit, resident permit or visit visa will are slowly starting to be lifted. using the Tatamman app be allowed to enter and exit Saudi Arabia airport. provided they tested negative for COVID-19 ► (8) follow precautionary procedures within the 48 hours prior to their flight. ► (3) undergo a seven-day self-quarantine at home (note, health practitioners with during self-quarantine at home as stated ► Saudi Arabia is currently planning to lift all negative PCR results may be allowed to in the Health Disclaimer Form. restrictions on air, sea and land travel after quarantine for a duration shorter than 1 January 2021. This will be revisited closer seven days) to the end of calendar year 2020.
► ► As of 23 September 2020, Saudi Arabia has (4) download and register on the suspended air travel to and from India, Brazil Tatamman and Tawakkalna mobile and Argentina due to high infection levels. phone applications. These are official Individuals who were present in these apps approved by the Saudi Ministry of jurisdictions at any time during the 14 days Health to prevent the spread of COVID- immediately preceding their travel to Saudi 19. Arabia (even if entering from a location other than India, Brazil and Argentina) are ► (continued in “suspension or delays in temporarily barred from entry into Saudi issuance of new visas” section) Arabia.
Page 94 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Senegal • Last updated/validated: 15 December 2020
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► Entry to Senegal by air is ► The previously imposed curfew ► In order to enter Senegal, permitted as of 15 July 2020 (from 11pm to 5am local time) travelers must present proof subject to health and safety has been lifted and domestic that they tested negative for protocols. The land and sea travel is now authorized. COVID-19 no more than five borders remain closed until days prior to travel, and the test ► Health and safety measures further notice. was conducted by a recognized remain in effect (e.g. mandatory health organization in the wearing of masks in all public ► The government of Senegal has country from which they confirmed that airlines are not places and on public transport, departed. allowed to carry foreign nationals regular hand washing or use of a from countries that have enacted alcohol-based sanitizer, keeping travel restrictions against a physical distance of one Senegal. meter, limiting gatherings in squares and other public places that encourage contact).
► Local health and safety measures are being implemented in the Dakar region, with strong enforcement of those measures expected by local security forces (police and gendarmerie).
Page 95 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Serbia • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► The Serbian borders are open ► There are no medical testing or ► All foreign nationals are ► Application processing has for all travelers. There are isolation/quarantine required to show a negative resumed. restrictions on entry to Serbia. requirements currently in place. polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test result, taken no more than 48 hours prior to arrival, to be allowed entry to Serbia.
Page 96 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Singapore • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► All travelers entering Singapore on/after 18 June 2020 are ► All Long Term Pass holders require advance ► Continued from “entry restrictions” ► Foreign employees (including in-principle approval ► Previously issued visas for all short- approval from the Singapore government subject to a COVID-19 testing before the end of their 14-day holders, existing work pass holders) and authorities prior to entry. Foreign employees stay-home notice (SHN). The test will be carried out at a ► Travelers are allowed to transit through Singapore accompanying family members will require an term visitors have been suspended designated community testing facility. The SHN will be observed (including in-principle approval holders, existing (using pre-approve airlines). Measures are in place to approval from the MOM prior to travel. The request at government designated facilities with the exception of the ensure that transiting passengers remain within the with the exception of valid visas work pass holders) and accompanying family following situations: for approval must be submitted online to the MOM transit area and do not mix with other passengers require an approval from the Ministry of Manpower ahead of the planned arrival date. held by Safe Travel and/or Air inside of Changi Airport. (MOM) prior to travel. The request must be ► (1) Travelers entering Singapore who remained in Macau, ► All travelers must submit a health declaration Travel Pass holders. submitted online to the MOM ahead of travel. Malaysia (excluding Sabah), mainland China, Taiwan, or Hong through the SG Arrival Card (SGAC) e-Service prior to Kong in the 14 days immediately prior to their entry to ► Effective 17 November 2020, all travelers (other than proceeding with immigration clearance. The health Singapore will not be required to serve the 14-day SHN at Singapore citizens and permanent residents) are ► Visa issuance for all short-term ► Holders of Long-term Visit Passes issued by the dedicated government facilities. They will only be required to required to take a PCR COVID-19 test no more than 72 declaration acknowledgement email will need to be Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and serve a seven-day SHN at their place of residence. They may hours prior to departure. Travelers from high risk presented to the Immigration Checkpoint Authority visitors, including any visa free Student Passes issued by the MOE (Ministry of isolate at residences that they or their family members own, or countries must also serve a 14-day Stay Home Notice officers. where they are sole tenants, or alternatively in locations such transit facilities, have been Education) require approvals from ICA and MOE (SHN) period (i.e. quarantine at home) upon arrival, and ► Travelers must update and resubmit their health prior to travel. as hotels (at their own cost). COVID-19 swab tests will still be declarations before their arrival in Singapore, if they suspended. administered to all travelers during the SHN period. get tested again at the end of their quarantine period. have recently visited a hospital, have been in contact ► Short-term visitors remain banned from entering ► (2) Travelers who remained in Brunei, New Zealand, Vietnam or ► Singapore and Hong Kong are in the process of with a COVID-19 case, or if there is a change in ► Approvals for new applications will Singapore, with several exceptions. Notably, "Fast Australia (excluding the state of Victoria) in the 14 consecutive establishing a bilateral Air Travel Bubble (ATB). Those health status or travel history. Health declarations Lane" / "Reciprocal Green Lane" arrangements are days prior to entry into Singapore, will be exempt from the SHN who will be eligible to travel under the ATB will be can be submitted through the SGAC e-Service up to 3 be limited while Singapore is in place with China, Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam, requirement as long as they undergo a COVID-19 test upon allowed to enter for any reason. However, they will be days before the arrival in Singapore. arrival at the airport and obtain a negative result. Individuals progressively re-opening their South Korea, Japan, Indonesia and Germany. required to take a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) ► Effective 17 September 2020, travelers other than who traveled to the Australian state of Victoria in the 14 days COVID-19 test at an approved institution and test borders. Employers may continue to Individuals traveling from these locations may be preceding their travel to Singapore will still be required to serve Singapore citizens and permanent residents who negative prior to travel. They will also be required to able to enter Singapore as visitors in some cases by a 14-day SHN at dedicated government facilities and undergo departed from or visited India within the last 14 days apply passes for foreigners who are obtaining a "Safe Travel Pass." COVID-19 testing during the SHN period. take designated flights. Short-term business visitors prior to entry to Singapore, must take a polymerase entering pursuant to the ATB will be required to apply chain reaction (PCR) COVID-19 test within the 72 already in Singapore. ► An "Air Travel Pass" is also currently available to ► (3) Travelers who were present in Fiji, South Korea, Sri Lanka, for an Air Travel Pass between 7 and 30 days prior to hours immediately preceding their trip. They must travelers from New Zealand, Brunei, Vietnam, Thailand or Hong Kong in the 14 days prior to entry into their flight. Singapore citizens, permanent residents Singapore, may serve their 14-day SHN at their place of present a valid, negative, English-language PCR test Australia (excluding Victoria state) and Taiwan and long-term pass holders will not require an Air result, issued by a recognized laboratory in India, to residence. Due to recent increases in cases reported by Finland Travel Pass. However, it is expected that long-term (effective from 18 December) seeking entry to and Turkey, all travelers entering Singapore from 28 November enter Singapore. Children who are 12 years of age or pass holders will be required to obtain approval from Singapore. Effective 6 November 2020, foreign 2020 onward, who traveled to Finland or Turkey in the 14 days younger do not need to take the PCR test. the Singapore authorities in order to travel under the short-term visitors traveling from Australia (Victoria leading up to entry to Singapore, are required to serve a 14-day ► Effective 19 October 2020, travelers other than ATB. The ATB with Hong Kong has been postponed State) and mainland China can apply for an Air SHN at a dedicated SHN facility, even if they previously Singaporean citizens and permanent residents who obtained approval to opt out of the SHN requirement. until 2021, due to the recent spike in COVID-19 cases Travel Pass to seek entry into Singapore. Long- departed from or visited Indonesia or the Philippines, in Hong Kong. The two governments are expected to Term Pass Holders will still need to seek prior entry within the 14 days leading up to their desired entry, ► (4) Travelers who were present in Hong Kong in the 14 days announce the ATB start date in late December 2020. approval from the relevant Singapore government prior to entry into Singapore are required to serve their 14-day must take a PCR COVID-19 test within the 72 hours SHN at a dedicated SHN facility. These travelers, except authorities prior to traveling to Singapore. ► Singapore will launch a new segregated travel lane immediately preceding their trip. They must present a Singaporeans and permanent residents, will also be required to (Connect@Singapore) to a limited number of business, valid negative COVID-19 test certificate as a take a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test within ► A Commuting Agreement is also currently in place condition of approval to enter Singapore. They are the 72 hours leading up to their departure. official and high economic value travelers on short- for commuters from Malaysia. term stays. Applications for this lane will open in mid also subject to the 14-day SHN (at a designated ► Continued on the next page January 2021. facility) and negative COVID-19 test result ► Continued in “suspension of existing (valid) visas requirement before the end of their SHN.
Page 97 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration Singapore (cont.)
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► Continued from previous page
► Notwithstanding the above, all long-term pass holders will continue to require pre-entry approval before entering Singapore. Requests can be made within 30 days of the intended arrival date to Singapore.
► Effective 23 September 2020, all travelers (including citizens and permanent residents) with recent travel to India within the 14 days preceding their entry to Singapore, will be required to take a serology test during their SHN period. Depending on the serology test result, they may be required to take a COVID-19 swab test before the end of their SHN period.
► Starting 14 October 2020, all travelers with recent travel to Malaysia (Sabah) within the 14 days leading up to their proposed entry, will be required to serve a 14-day SHN at dedicated SHN facilities. This applies to returning Singapore-based travelers under the RGL, as well as Malaysian citizens and permanent residents entering Singapore under the periodic commuting arrangement.
► Effective 6 November 2020, Singapore citizens, permanent residents and Long-Term Pass holders returning from Australia (Victoria State) and mainland China must undergo a COVID-19 test upon arrival, in lieu of a SHN with a COVID-19 test administered before the end of the SHN.
► Due to recent spike in COVID-19 cases in Malaysia and Japan, effective 22 November 2020, all travelers seeking to enter Singapore, who traveled to Malaysia or Japan in the 14 days leading up to their desired entry into Singapore, are now be required to serve a 14 day SHN at dedicated SHN facilities. This also applies to travelers entering Singapore to work under the Periodic Commuting Arrangement, as well as individuals returning to Singapore under the Singapore - Malaysia Reciprocal Green Lane (RGL), or the Singapore-Japan RGL. Travelers from Japan will no longer be able to opt out of serving their SHN requirement at a designated SHN facility, even if they had been approved to do so previously.
► Due to the deteriorating COVID-19 outbreak in Hong Kong, effective from 13 December, all travelers entering Singapore, who have a travel history in the past 14 days to Hong Kong are now required to serve a 14-day SHN at dedicated SHN facilities. All travelers (except Singapore citizens and permanent residents) entering Singapore from 18 December 2020, who have a travel history in the past 14 days to Hong Kong will be required to take a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) COVID-19 test no more than 72 hours prior to travel and to present a valid negative COVID-19 test results as a condition of approval to enter Singapore.
Page 98 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Slovakia • Last updated/validated: 8 December 2020
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► Entry restrictions do not apply ► Individuals entering from low-risk ► Continued from “quarantines” section ► Continued from “suspension of existing (valid) visas” to travelers entering from "low countries (and who were not ► Entry from a high risk country in the EU (without spending time in a high risk country risk countries" provided they present in high-risk countries in the ► In all cases, new entrants who display outside the EU in the 14 days prior to travel). 14 days immediately preceding their symptoms of COVID-19 while still in have not traveled to a country These individuals have two options: (1) they entry to Slovakia) are not subject to outside of this list in the 14 may take a reverse transmission polymerase isolation, should remain in isolation and pre-travel testing requirements, or chain reaction (RT-PCR) COVID-19 test, and seek medical advice (and follow any days immediately preceding quarantine or medical testing test negative, no more than 72 hours prior to advice delivered by the medical their entry to the Slovakia. The requirements upon arrival to arrival in Slovakia, in which case, they will not professionals). be required to take another COVID-19 test on list of low risk countries can be Slovakia. They are also not required arrival or register with the local authorities or ► As of 7 December 2020, cross-border found here. This list will be to register online with the local quarantine/self-isolate after arrival, or (2) if workers are required to present a updated over time as the authorities. However, they must they do not take a RT-PCR test prior to travel, negative RT-PCR or antigenic test they are required to register with the local result, not older than 14 days, upon pandemic evolves. abide by local health and safety authorities in advance of travel (at this site), their arrival in Slovakia. ► Travelers entering from high- requirements (e.g. contact a doctor and they will be required to self-isolate upon entry for 10 days. They may shorten this risk countries (i.e. countries not if they develop symptoms after arrival). quarantine/self-isolation period by taking a included in the list of "low-risk" COVID-19 test on their fifth day in the country and testing negative. countries), or who spent time in ► Individuals entering from high-risk a high-risk country in the 14 countries, or who enter from a low- ► Entry from a high risk country outside of the risk countries but were present in a EU (or who spent time in a high risk country days immediately preceding outside the EU in the 14 days prior to travel). high-risk county in the 14 days their entry to Slovakia, will be These individuals must register with the local preceding their entry, are subject to subject to heightened authorities in advance of travel (at this site), heightened admission and testing and they will be required to self-isolate upon admission and medical testing requirements. These individuals fall entry for 10 days. They may shorten this requirements. quarantine/self-isolation period by taking a into two groups. COVID-19 test on their fifth day in the country and testing negative. ► Continued in “suspension of existing (valid) visas” section. ► Continued in “heightened admission”
Page 99 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Slovenia • Last updated/validated: 3 December 2020
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► Slovenia reintroduced ► Non-citizens are required either ► Foreign nationals arriving from ► The issuance of new visas may restrictions on entry of foreign to self-isolate for 10 days upon green listed jurisdictions and be delayed as immigration visitors to the jurisdiction entry, or to present a negative that are displaying COVID-19 authorities are working based starting 26 May 2020. COVID-19 test, issued no more symptoms, may be required to on pre-scheduled appointment than 48 hours prior to travel (in present a health certificate protocols. ► Business travelers from red which case, the requirement to issued within three days, in listed jurisdictions may enter self-isolate may be waived). English, Italian, or Slovenian in Slovenia under certain order to be granted entry. conditions. ► Citizens of EU member states from the yellow jurisdiction can ► The list of jurisdictions enter Slovenia without classified as green, yellow or restrictions. red can be accessed here. ► Slovenian citizens arriving from green and yellow listed jurisdictions are not required to quarantine. Slovenian citizens returning from a non-EU jurisdiction will need to self- isolate for 10 days if they spent more than two weeks in a jurisdiction not on the green list.
Page 100 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] South Africa • Last updated/validated: 17 November 2020
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► The South African borders, including all ► Newly admitted individuals are ► Visas from high-risk jurisdictions ► All inbound travelers are ► Some South African missions commercial seaports, reopened for international travel on 1 October 2020. The following subject to comprehensive that were canceled remain required to show a negative have resumed visa application conditions apply: testing/screening, isolation and invalid, unless otherwise COVID-19 test result, taken no processing. Applicants should ► (1) The 18 land borders which were partially quarantine measures. determined by the Minister of more than 72 hours prior to consult the mission with operational are now fully operational and the 35 land borders that were previously closed remain the Department of Home departure. Failure to present jurisdiction over their place of closed, Affairs. this certificate will result in the residence to confirm whether it ► (2) Travel from countries with a low rate of traveler having to quarantine at is currently issuing visas, as well ► The visa-free status of citizens COVID-19 infection and transmission will be his/her own expense. There will as current processing times. permitted provided the traveler holds a valid from the following jurisdictions certificate issued no more than 72 prior to also be a mandatory COVID-19 travel, proving she/he tested negative for has been reinstated, and as health screening upon arrival in COVID-19 (failure to provide this certificate will such, any previously canceled result in the traveler having to quarantine at South Africa. her/his own expense), visas are now valid: France,
► (3) Travel from countries with a high COVID-19 Germany, Hong Kong, Iran, ► Travel insurance is mandatory infection and transmission rate is not permitted, Italy, Portugal, Singapore, South for all travelers. although exceptions will be made for business travelers, repatriated nationals, investors, and Korea, Spain, United Kingdom, professional sporting event members all of whom and the United States. require advance approval from the Minister of Home Affairs,
► (4) Daily commuters from neighboring countries who attend or teach at a school in South Africa may enter and exit the country, subject to COVID-19 testing and quarantine requirements, and other measures (including wearing of a face mask, adhering to social distancing measures etc.),
► (5) Travelers arriving from African countries will be allowed to enter South Africa as long as they possess the relevant travel documents.
Page 101 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] South Korea • Last updated/validated: 23 September 2020
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► All entrants will be tested for COVID-19 testing, ► As of 13 April 2020, short-term visit visas (C- ► Although all travelers entering ► Any permits (short-term or long- ► Applications submitted by 3) issued on or before 5 April 2020 are no submit papers on their health condition and provide longer valid for applicants who have not South Korea are required to term) already issued to a phone number and residential address to the Japanese nationals that have entered South Korea. The visa-free entry and quarantine for 14 days upon Japanese nationals are no health authorities at the airports. They will also be not already been processed are visa waiver program has been suspended as of required to download a self-diagnosis smartphone app to submit self-diagnosis results for 14 days and 13 April 2020 for multiple nationalities arrival in principle, those who longer valid except for alien canceled, and applicants will to be placed under intensive care if they show (except the United States, United Kingdom, meet certain conditions may registration/residential card symptoms. need to submit a new Mexico, Ireland and Slovenia). apply for a Quarantine holders. application. ► All entrants must undergo a COVID-19 ► Effective 1 June 2020, all registered foreigners testing. All registered foreigners with a re- Exemption Certificate. with a re-entry permit must submit a medical entry permit must submit a medical ► As of 13 April 2020, short-term certificate confirming there are no COVID-19 ► The visa-free entry and visa symptoms, and issued within 48 hours of the certificate, showing no symptoms related to ► Foreign nationals entering visit visas (C-3) issued on or waiver program have been COVID-19, issued within 48 hours prior to departure, before entering South Korea. Exceptions to this requirement apply. departure. This submission requirement may South Korea for less than 90 before 5 April 2020 are no suspended for multiple be waived if the individual applies for an days, will be subject to longer valid for applicants that ► As of 13 April 2020, the visa-free entry and visa nationalities. This does not exemption in Korea before their trip. A-1 waiver program has been suspended for multiple (diplomats), A-2 (government officials), quarantine in a government have not entered South Korea. nationalities (except the United States, United apply to citizens of the United International Agreement (A-3), or Overseas designated facility, at their own Kingdom, Mexico, Ireland and Slovenia). States, the United Kingdom, Koreans (F-4) are not subject to this ► All visa issued by Consulate expense. Those entering for 90 ► The visa-free policy for Chinese nationals transiting Mexico, Ireland and Slovenia. requirement. A phone number and residence General of the Republic of Korea days or longer, will be required through South Korea has been temporarily address must be provided to the authorities in Wuhan, China Mainland are suspended. Landing visas in Jeju Island have been upon arrival. A self-diagnosis smartphone app to provide a local address to the suspended. must be downloaded to submit self-diagnosis suspended and no longer results for 14 days and individuals will be authorities, upon arrival. ► All individuals applying for a visa from a Korean placed under intensive care if they show considered valid. consulate must submit a medical certificate and a symptoms of COVID-19. Passengers who are health condition report form, and consent to being banned from boarding flights to South Korea ► However, visas issued by Korean quarantined of granted permission to enter.
will have their fares returned by the airline. consulates in other parts of ► As of 20 July 2020, all new entrants (excluding ► As of 10 August 2020, South Korea has China Mainland will be Korean citizens) departing from Uzbekistan, the removed entry bans on foreigners who visited Philippines, Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and or traveled to Hubei province in the preceding considered valid. Bangladesh require a negative PCR COVID-19 test two weeks, and holders of visas issued by certificate issued by designated hospitals approved Hubei authorities. South Korea has also lifted by the overseas Korean Consulate. Visa the suspension on visa issuance by its restrictions have been imposed on nationals of consulate general in Wuhan. high-risk countries (inclusive of the abovementioned six countries).
Page 102 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Spain • Last updated/validated: 2 December 2020
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► As of 17 July 2020, admission may ► Effective 21 June 2020, all EU ► Continued from “entry restrictions” ► Effective 23 November 2020, ► The authorities have resumed only be granted to certain groups, travelers, including UK citizens, ► (i) residents of third countries listed new entrants from locations processing immigration including: (a) citizens of arriving in Spain are no longer provided that they travel directly from with high COVID-19 infection documents as of 22 June 2020. EU/EEA/Schengen states, Andorra, these countries, have transited exclusively Monaco, The Vatican and San Marino, required to self-isolate on arrival through other countries included in the list rates will need to present a as well as Spanish citizens and for 14 days. or have carried out only international negative polymerase chain residents of any of these jurisdictions, transits at airports located in countries not reaction (PCR) test taken no (b) holders of a long-term visa issued by ► Effective 1 July 2020, third- listed in the countries (e.g. Australia, more than 72 hours prior to an EU Member State or Schengen country nationals who are Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, entry. In addition, all passengers State, (c) cross-border workers, (d) eligible for entry are similarly South Korea, Thailand, Uruguay), and (j) health professionals, including health residents of China Mainland, Hong Kong arriving into Spain by air or sea not required to self-isolate. researchers, and health professionals and Macau, provided these jurisdictions will be required to complete and care for the elderly who go to or return offer admission to citizens of Spain on the from exercising their work activity, (e) basis of reciprocity. present a public health form, personnel dedicated to the transport of which can be found here. ► Note that Morocco, Canada, Tunisia and goods, in the exercise of their work Georgia were removed from the list. In activity and flight personnel necessary addition, all passengers arriving into Spain to carry out commercial air transport by air or sea will be required to complete activities , (f) diplomatic, consular, and present the form from the below link international, military and humanitarian https:/www.spth.gob.es/. This is a public organizations personnel, in the exercise health questionnaire that you can also find of their functions, (g) students who through a free app named SPAIN TRAVEL study in the Member States or HEALTH-SpTH. Once fulfilled, a QR code Schengen Associated States and who will be generated and you will need to show have the corresponding permit or visa, this at the Spanish border. Any national of (h) people traveling for family reasons, a third country, even if they belong to one of the previous categories, who after ► Continued in “suspension of existing verification by the health authorities does (valid) visas” not meet the health control requirements for COVID-19 may be denied entry.
Page 103 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Sweden • Last updated/validated: 9 December 2020
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► As of 19 March 2020, Sweden banned ► Individuals are being asked to ► Those who are traveling to ► There are widespread delays in entry of all foreign nationals from self-quarantine if they are Sweden and are not granted issuance of visas as consular jurisdictions other than EEA member states and Switzerland. showing COVID-19 symptoms entry will be forced to remain at posts are closed or are and are 70 years of age or the airport until a return flight operating with reduced staff. ► The travel ban has been extended to 22 older. can be arranged. If a return December 2020 (extended multiple ► Entry visas are not being issued flight cannot be arranged within times from 30 June 2020). to travelers who are currently several days, the individual will ► Exceptions are being made for foreign restricted from entering be allowed to enter Sweden but nationals returning home to Sweden, as Sweden. well as Swedish citizens and permanent the border police will keep their residents. passport.
► In addition, first time residence permit holders will be exempt from the travel ban, as well as residents of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, and Uruguay. Highly skilled workers are also exempt, provided the proposed activities in Sweden cannot be postponed or performed remotely.
► On 20 October 2020, the Swedish authorities raised the possibility of including professional athletes to the list of travelers who are exempt from the entry ban. However, a formal decision has not been reached with respect to athletes.
Page 104 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Switzerland • Last updated/validated: 14 December 2020
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► Holders of valid D-visas, L, B, G and C ► As of 6 July 2020, travelers may be ► Non-EU nationals who already hold ► (Continued from the “Entry ► All visa processing has now permits and announcement confirmations required to quarantine for 10 days a Swiss work authorization but who restrictions” section). resumed. may enter Switzerland. Holders of C (work) visas, and core family members of Swiss upon admission when entering from could not be issued a visa due to ► Non-EU nationals who hold a valid D citizens and residents may also be eligible high-risk jurisdictions. The list of recent entry restrictions, will be Visa, a valid Schengen Visa C for for entry to Switzerland. Entry for business high-risk jurisdictions can be found allowed to collect their visa and work purposes or a valid online and tourism is currently not permitted. here. enter Switzerland. Effective 15 June 2020, nationals of the announcement confirmation are United Kingdom and the EU/EEA member allowed to enter Switzerland. states may enter Switzerland, whether traveling from a Schengen or non-Schengen ► Individuals from the following jurisdiction. All travel restrictions have been lifted for these travelers and the complete jurisdictions will be allowed to enter free movement of persons across the Switzerland (including for business EU/EEA area has been re-established. travel and tourism) subject to pre COVID-19 entry requirements: ► As of 6 July 2020, the Swiss Federal Council will lift all COVID-19 related Andorra, Australia, Bulgaria, restrictions on the admission of workers Croatia, Cyprus, Ireland, Japan, from third jurisdictions (e.g. non-EU/EFTA Monaco, New Zealand, Rwanda, states). Third-country nationals without a valid Swiss work visa or permit are still not Romania, San Marino, South Korea, allowed to enter Switzerland for leisure and Thailand, Uruguay and the Vatican. non-urgent business meetings. If possible, Switzerland plans to lift these entry ► Entry from other non EU/EEA restrictions at the same time as the other jurisdictions without a valid Swiss Schengen states. work visa or permit (e.g. for
► An exception exists for travelers attending tourism) is still not allowed. important business meetings in person that cannot be postponed (e.g. contract negotiations/signings).
► (continued in “heightened admission” section).
Page 105 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Taiwan • Last updated/validated: 23 November 2020
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► The following individuals are barred from entering ► All passengers entering Taiwan are required to ► Visa/entry permit issuance for ► Transits through Taiwan are ► Visas issued prior to 19 March Taiwan: (1) Mainland Chinese nationals except for be on home quarantine for 14 days upon Mainland Chinese nationals is allowed except for flights 2020 are suspended and no spouses and children (20 years of age or younger) entry into Taiwan. suspended, except for spouses between locations within longer valid unless issued with a of Taiwan citizens or foreigners with a Taiwanese and children (20 years of age or mainland China. special notation "special entry ► Business travelers who wish to make short residence permit, (2) foreign nationals (except younger) of Taiwan citizens or permit for COVID-19." visits to Taiwan can apply for shortened home ► As of 29 June 2020, all foreign those who are entering for reasons other than foreigners with a Taiwanese quarantine periods from 22 June 2020, if nationals entering Taiwan on tourism and regular social visits), (3) Hong Kong residence permit. they meet all of the following conditions: (1) visitor visa must present an and Macau residents except for those entering for they are eligible to enter Taiwan, (2) their ► Online entry visa applications English-language certificate of a humanitarian reasons or emergency situations duration of stay will not exceed three months, submitted by Hong Kong and negative COVID-19 test taken (e.g. those entering to fulfill contractual (3) they are entering for bona fide business Macau passport holders will not be within 3 days of boarding the obligations, as part of internal transfers within visitor activities (e.g. inspection of goods, accepted (e.g. entry permit, flight to Taiwan. They must also multinational enterprises, for commercial and provision of after-sales services, technical online visa, landing visa). undergo a 14-day home trade exchanges, those who are spouses or assistance and training, contract signing), and quarantine period. children of Taiwan citizens and hold resident ► Alien Registration Cards are (4) they are traveling from a low or medium- certificates, those who hold Taiwan resident required for dependent visa ► New entrants who present risk jurisdictions (as determined by Taiwan's certificates related to employment, investment or issuance in most countries. Visas symptoms of COVID-19 must Central Epidemic Command Center) and have entrepreneurship). are only being issued to foreigners undergo health checks at the no travel history to other jurisdictions in the whose purpose of visit are not airport upon arrival in Taiwan. ► From 1 December 2020 to 28 February 2021, all 14 days leading up to their proposed entry to related to tourism and regular passengers will be required to provide a certificate Taiwan. social visits. of a negative COVID-19 test issued no more than ► Travelers arriving from the Philippines must three days prior to travel before board a flight to undergo a 14-day quarantine at a group Taiwan (including transiting through Taiwan). facility. They are required to pay NT$ 1,500 They are also subject to a home quarantine for 14 per night for their stay at the facility, unless days after entry. This policy applies to all they hold a Taiwan Resident Certificate or passengers, regardless nationality, purpose of resident visa (in which case the fee is waived). travel, or travel documents/visas held.
Page 106 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Tanzania • Last updated/validated: 15 December 2020
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► Flights are now operating to ► There are no quarantine and from Tanzania. To enter measures in effect, except for Tanzania, passengers must those who test positive for provide proof of a negative COVID-19. COVID-19 test, completed no more than 72 hours prior to travel. Passengers should also complete a Health Surveillance Form and submit the same to the border authorities upon arrival.
Page 107 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: wai-ph'[email protected] Thailand • Last updated/validated: 16 September 2020
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► The ban on entry by international ► All airline passengers (including ► Holders of several types of Thai ► All entrants to Thailand, ► Due to overwhelming demand, commercial aircraft remains in place. Only limited types of aircraft can enter Thailand, Special Tourist Visa holders) are visas that were issued prior to including Thai nationals, are issuance of new visas may including those conducting military, medical, subject to a 14-day quarantine the COVID-19 outbreak required to apply for a encounter delays depending on humanitarian and repatriation flights. In some instances, other exceptions may apply upon arrival in Thailand. (including Tourist, Retirement, Certificate of Entry (COE) from the Thai Embassy in the (including permanent residents who receive Foreigners are to be Student, Guardian, Non O Visa, the Royal Thai Embassy in the jurisdiction and potential approval to exit and re-enter Thailand). quarantined at Alternative State Elite Card) are not allowed entry jurisdiction of their residence restrictions on the local
► All eligible travelers seeking to enter Quarantine (ASQ) facilities. by the Immigration Bureau until prior to departure. operating hours. It is suggested Thailand, including Thai nationals, are further notice. to check with the nearest Thai required to obtain the following documents ► Thai citizens must implement Embassy on the latest on prior to travel: (1) Certificate of Entry (CoE), self-quarantine measures at (2) medical certificate confirming that the ground information. traveler took a reverse transmission state provided quarantine polymerase chain reaction (RT PCR) COVID- facilities. 19 test, tested negative in the 72 hours immediately preceding their proposed travel, and that they are fit to travel (Fit to Fly Health Certificate/Fit to Travel Health Certificate), (3) travel insurance policy that covers medical expenses, of at least US$ 100,000, and (4) reservation confirmation for the 14 days of Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ). Dependents who are eligible to enter Thailand are recommended to travel together with the principal traveler (provided the principal traveler is also eligible for entry).
► Qualified individuals are allowed to enter Thailand for tourism using a "Special Tourist Visa". Special Tourist Visa holders will be granted a stay of 90 days upon entry and up to two extensions of 90 days each (for a total period of stay of up to 270 days). They must limit their activities to tourism/leisure are not allowed to work.
Page 108 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Trinidad and Tobago • Last updated/validated: 6 December 2020
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► All borders are closed effective ► Travelers who are allowed to ► Issuance of new entry visas is 22 March 2020 until further enter Trinidad on an exceptional currently suspended. notice. Citizens and permanent basis (after obtaining an residents of Trinidad who are exemption from the authorities outside of Trinidad may request in Trinidad) must take a an exemption from the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) authorities by e-mailing their COVID-19 test (and test request to negative) in the 72 hours [email protected]. immediately preceding their All other individuals may travel. They must also request exemptions at the same quarantine upon arrival for 14 e-mail address clearly stating days at a government-approved the reason for the travel facility. exemption request.
Page 109 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Turkey • Last updated/validated: 3 December 2020
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► Restrictions on international ► Foreign passengers are not required ► Passengers and airline crew are ► All Schengen visa applications and domestic flights were lifted to quarantine as a general rule. subject to medical screening. remain on hold. It is now on 12 June 2020. All new However, foreign passengers who Passengers must complete the possible to apply for temporary show symptoms and are tested for entrants will be subject to COVID-19 (and test positive) will be passenger information on stay visas for assignments of up medical screening. referred to a private hospital by the arrival. They are not required to to 1 year, as well as residence Ministry of Health – Border Health take a COVID-19 test prior to visas for highly qualified Unit. These individuals, and any travel. They will undergo a activities. Issuance of residence others who display symptoms of medical examination and those visas for employment purposes COVID-19 may be required to showing symptoms will have (with labor certificates) are quarantine at the discretion of the local authorities. tests performed. Passengers suspended until further notice. with a positive test result, or ► All appointments scheduled with ► A general curfew is currently in effect who display symptoms of until further notice, from 9 pm to 5 the in-jurisdiction immigration COVID-19, may be refused entry am local time (Monday through delegations for June and July or required to undergo medical Friday) and over the weekend, from 9 are being postponed to later pm Friday to 5 am Monday. treatment and/or quarantine dates. upon arrival (at the discretion of ► Turkish citizens and residents above the age of 64 are restricted to their the local authorities). ► All pending applications place of residence, and are only submitted to the immigration allowed outside between the hours of authorities will continue to be 10 am and 1pm. processed. ► Turkish citizens and residents (aged 20 and below) are only allowed outside between the hours of 1pm and 4pm.
Page 110 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Uganda • Last updated/validated: 15 December 2020
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► International flights have ► Arriving passengers will be ► In light of the current ► On arrival at the Entebbe ► Applications will still be resumed at the Entebbe subject to temperature checks prohibition on entry to Uganda, International Airport and at land accepted online but delays can International Airport on 1 and will be screened for holders of previously issued border crossings, travelers will be expected in processing due October 2020. infectious diseases by the Port valid visas may not use those be asked to present a negative to the COVID-19 lockdown. Health authorities. If a visas to enter the jurisdiction at COVID-19 test certificate issued Applicants are advised to check ► The land borders have passenger shows signs or this time. no more than 120 hours prior to the online site of the Ugandan reopened as well. symptoms of an infectious their arrival/boarding the authorities for developments disease, they will be taken by aircraft for those that are flying. related to their applications. ambulance to a local isolation ► Foreign nationals who arrive center to undergo a COVID-19 without a valid negative test test at their own cost. The test certificate will be denied entry. result will be returned within 24 Infants aged three and under to 48 hours, during which time are exempt as long as the the passenger will be expected accompanying parent(s) to remain at the isolation has/have a negative COVID-19 center. If a foreign national test certificate. tests positive for COVID-19 and wishes to be repatriated for treatment outside of Uganda, they will be expected to cover the associated costs themselves.
Page 111 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Ukraine • Last updated/validated: 12 December 2020
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► No restrictions are currently in ► Individuals must undergo ► Visa issuance has resumed, place for travelers arriving from observation at medical however, widespread delays are "green zone" jurisdictions, institutions or self-isolate for 14 expected as in-jurisdiction however they must obtain a days if they arrive from "red authorities and consular and Health Insurance Certificate zone" jurisdictions unless they embassy staff are operating at (issued by a provider registered tested negative for COVID-19 reduced staff levels. in Ukraine) covering COVID-19 upon arrival. Those who remain treatment if necessary as a at medical institutions or self- condition for admission. isolate are required to use a smartphone application to track their health status through the period of their stay in Ukraine. Individuals entering from red zones may be exempt from the self-isolation requirement if the test negative for COVID-19 (using a polymerase chain reaction or PCR test) upon arrival to the Ukraine.
Page 112 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] United Arab Emirates • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► UAE citizens who are currently abroad ► All travelers who enter the UAE must ► Entry permits, mission visas and ► Foreign nationals holding Dubai-issued ► Various free zones (e.g. Dubai undergo 14 days of mandatory self- (and their direct family members traveling visit visas issued before 17 residency visas who are outside of the International Financial Centre, at the same time as them) are eligible to quarantine effective 18 March 2020. UAE may enter the UAE. Prior to their enter the UAE. March 2020 will be canceled if return, they must receive approval from Dubai Airport Free Zone, Jebel ► Residents in Abu Dhabi are now able to exit and visit other Emirates using a special the individual has not already the General Directorate of Residency and Ali Free Zone, Dubai Silicon ► Effective from 1 June 2020, foreign permit issued by the police. Travel to other Foreign Affairs (GDRFA Dubai) and their nationals with a valid residency visa who entered the UAE. Oasis Authority, Dubai health Emirates was previously suspended relevant airline. Residents are required to have relatives living in the UAE will be care City) are accepting temporarily. Either a negative PCR test fill out a Health Declaration Form before permitted to return. The authorities have taken within 48 hours of travel or a boarding confirming they do not have employment residence visa advised travelers to register for resident Diffractive Phase Interferometry (DPI) laser COVID-19-related symptoms. All entry permits online. applications for candidates test at the border, is required for residents returning residents will have to undergo a outside the United Arab to enter the Abu Dhabi Emirate. COVID-19 test at Dubai International ► Short-term visitors and tourists will be Airport (DXB) and download the COVID- Emirates. Mainland visa permitted to enter Dubai starting 7 July ► Travelers must complete a COVID-19 test 19 Dubai mobile application. Residents 2020. They will be required to have prior to arrival (and they must have a application for candidates international health insurance and sign a negative test to travel), however they may will not be permitted to leave their homes outside the UAE are still on hold until their test results are returned. If Health Declaration Form prior to asked to submit to an additional test at the until further notice. embarking. They will also have to either airport upon arrival. they test positive, they must self-isolate present a negative polymerase chain for 14 days. Abu Dhabi residents will ► As of 1 August 2020, travelers from reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 96 need to quarantine themselves for 14 designated jurisdictions (listed on the hours prior to departure or undertake a days even if their PCR test results are website of Emirates Airlines) will also be COVID-19 test upon arrival. If they test negative. required to complete a polymerase chain positive for COVID-19, they will be reaction (PCR) test upon arrival at the ► Effective 12 August 2020, UAE residents required to quarantine at a government- airport in Dubai. with valid visas who enter via Dubai mandated facility. International Airport must first obtain a ► Travelers entering Abu Dhabi must undergo travel permit from the Federal Authority ► Tourists are not able to fly to Abu Dhabi. a mandatory 14-day quarantine and wear an Arrival into the Abu Dhabi International electronic wristband as soon as they arrive. for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) prior to Airport is currently restricted to residents The wristband may be removed after 14 travel. UAE residents seeking to return to and those coming for work with visa days in Abu Dhabi provided the traveler got Abu Dhabi and the other emirates are applications in progress. tested for COVID-19 on their 12th day in encouraged to apply for approval on the Abu Dhabi and they tested negative. website of the ICA prior to travel.
Page 113 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] United Kingdom • Last updated/validated: 16 December 2020
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► British nationals traveling abroad are being ► As of 14 December 2020, all passengers ► Continued from “quarantine” section. ► Most UK Visa Application Centers (VACs) are advised by the authorities against "all but arriving in the UK will be required to self- resuming services where local restrictions allow. essential" international travel. If the isolate on arrival for 10 days unless they are ► The list of jobs that qualify for exemptions Services will reopen in phases. from self-isolation or passenger locator individuals are permanent resident traveling/returning from a jurisdiction with a ► The Home Office is only providing "priority service"’ overseas, they should remain and follow travel corridor exemption with the UK, and form requirements can be found by clicking in a limited number of locations for applications the advice of the local authorities. More they have not traveled to, or been stopped here. overseas, which will result in delays in visa issuance. foreign travel advice can be found here. in, a jurisdiction that is not on the travel ► Effective 15 December 2020, individuals ► The Home Office released updated guidance for corridors exemption list in the 10 days arriving from abroad will be soon able to those currently in the UK with visas expiring on or ► Countries and territories that are exempt leading up to their proposed entry to the UK. reduce their quarantine by more than half if before 31 July 2020 (and in limited circumstances from the advise against "all but essential" The travel corridors exemptions list can be after 31 Jul 2020). Click here for more information. they pay for a COVID-19 test after five days international travel can be found here. found here. Travelers must complete the of admission. The COVID-19 tests will be passenger locator form online any time in the ► Applicants who hold short-term entry visas, enabling ► Germany and Sweden have been removed administered by private companies and will them to travel to the UK and collect residence card, 48 hours before they are due to arrive in the from the government’s travel corridor list cost between £65 and £120. that have expired, will be able to apply for a new UK from any country, even when traveling following an increase in confirmed COVID- entry visa free of charge until the end of 2020. from a country included on the travel ► The "Test to Release for International 19 cases in these jurisdictions. ► Effective 24 September 2020, UK Visas and corridors exemption list. The form can be Travel" scheme starts 15 December 2020. found here. Immigration (UKVI) has returned to their usual ► The Canary Islands have been removed Individuals who are only allowed to leave operating processes for applications submitted in from the exempt travel corridor list on 12 self-isolation for work-related activities in the UK. They are now in a position to invite all ► The UK Government has issued updated December 2020. Individuals arriving to the England may choose to take a COVID-19 test customers to book appointments and submit guidelines on permitted activities during the applications at UKVCAS service points. United Kingdom from the Canary Islands COVID-19 pandemic. For more information, under this scheme. If they test negative, will be required to self-isolate upon arrival. they may end their self-isolation. For more click here. ► The only exception to this will be in-country Tier 4 information, click here. Student applicants. Those individuals applying in the ► Botswana and Saudi Arabia have been ► The UK has implemented local and regional UK under the Tier 4 Student route, whose biometrics added to the exemptions list on 12 quarantine and self isolation restrictions. For ► A change to the self-isolation period (from have been recorded in a previous application, will be December 2020. more information, click here. 14 to 10 days) has been announced. This assessed by UKVI. Once UKVI have undertaken this change goes into effect in England, Scotland eligibility assessment, UKVCAS will contact ► applicants to inform them to either use the IDV app The authorities have introduced a three- ► Effective 14 September 2020, new and Northern Ireland on 14 December 2020. or book an appointment at a UKVCAS Service Point. tiered system of local COVID Alert Levels in restrictions have been introduced, including This change has already been applied to the UK. Starting 16 December 2020, UKVCAS now has "essential service" status and the a prohibition on assemblies of groups of six Wales. For more information, click here. staff are seen as key workers. additional regions in the UK, including people or more (unless these individuals live London, will undergo stricter Tier 3 together). For more information, click here. ► The lockdown period which started on 5 November restrictions. For more information, see 2020 ended on 2 December 2020. A new local https://www.gov.uk/find-coronavirus-local- ► Continued in “suspension of existing (valid) restriction tier system was introduced on 2 restrictions. visas” December 2020. Click here for more information.
Page 114 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] United States • Last updated/validated: 4 January 2021
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► Travelers that have been to ► US citizens and Lawful ► The Department of State (DOS) ► Foreigners entering under the mainland China, Iran, the Permanent Residents entering has temporarily suspended most Visa Waiver Program (VWP), United Kingdom, Ireland, the the US from a restricted routine immigrant and non- also known as the Electronic Schengen Area member states jurisdiction will be subject to immigrant visa appointments. System for Travel Authorization, or Brazil, in the 14 days prior enhanced entry screening and Exceptions for national interest (ESTA) are not eligible to extend to seeking admission to the directed to proceed to their final may be entertained at the their stay or change status. If an United States will be refused destination, and immediately discretion of the US authorities. emergency such as COVID-19 entry. This excludes US home quarantine in accordance prevents the departure of a ► The DOS is currently limiting Citizens, US Lawful Permanent with Center of Disease Control VWP entrant, United States visa processing to emergencies, Residents, and members of the best practices. Citizenship and Immigration which are fairly narrowly US armed forces and their Services (USCIS) has discretion ► State-specific quarantine defined as including urgent immediate family members. to grant a period of satisfactory measures may be in effect as medical care for oneself or for a departure of up to 30 days. ► Travelers entering the U.S by well. The latest guidance can be relative or employer that must land from Canada or Mexico for found here. be accompanied, a ► USCIS has temporary authority “non-essential” purposes will be funeral/death, urgent business to grant an additional 30 day refused entry. The U.S. has travel, or students or exchange period to VWP entrants who are declined to fully define “non- visitors. unable to depart after the initial essential” apart from excluding 30 day period. Satisfactory ► Special procedures for making any travel related to tourism or departure requests must be the emergency visa request recreation. The U.S. has also made by calling the USCIS must be followed. closed its land border with Contact Center at 1-800-375- Mexico to any undocumented 5283. applicants (impacting asylum and refugee seekers).
Page 115 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Uruguay • Last updated/validated: 4 January 2021
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► In general, foreigners are ► All travelers coming to Uruguay ► Foreigners who will remain in ► New visa applications can now restricted from entering will be subject to 14-day Uruguay for less than seven be filed with the authorities, Uruguay currently. However, mandatory quarantine upon days must take an approved however only urgent requests exemptions to this entry arrival. COVID-19 test (and test are being processed currently. restriction exist for a variety of negative) within the 72 hours individuals, including the leading up to their proposed following: (1) Uruguay citizens travel in order to be admitted. and permanent residents who ► Foreigners who will be in the are currently outside of the jurisdiction for more than seven jurisdiction, (2) air crew and days must also get tested prior pilots, (3) drivers transporting to travel, and they will goods internationally, (4) additionally be subject to a diplomats, and as of 10 seven day quarantine. They may January 2021, (5) other be tested for COVID-19 at the individuals who have an urgent end of the seven day quarantine or exceptional reason for period (at which point they may seeking entry (determined on a leave quarantine if they test case-by-case basis by the negative), or they will be Uruguayan authorities). required to quarantine for an additional seven day period (for a total period of 14 days in isolation).
Page 116 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Venezuela • Last updated/validated: 14 December 2020
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► Venezuela has closed its ► Domestic travel restrictions ► All travelers (including borders and airports to most have been lifted. However, all Venezuelan citizens and countries until further notice. individuals are urged to comply residents) must carry a negative Currently, flights into with local health and safety polymerase chain reaction (PCR) Venezuela are only permitted requirements (e.g. they should COVID-19 test certificate, when departing from Bolivia, isolate if they present symptoms issued by an authorized Mexico, or Turkey. of COVID-19 after arrival in laboratory, no more than 48 Venezuela). hours prior to travel. Individuals who do not comply with this ► Several industrial sectors have requirement may be denied been allowed to resume their entry to Venezuela. activities. Workers in these sectors are working for seven ► Venezuela retains discretion to days at a time, after which they admit individuals who test are being required to remain at positive for COVID-19. If home for seven days admitted, these individuals will continuously. be required to quarantine at a state-designated quarantine facility upon arrival in Venezuela.
Page 117 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] Vietnam • Last updated/validated: 26 October 2020
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► Foreigners who are investors, ► All passengers, with the exception ► The validity of the Visa ► Mandatory health declaration and ► Government authorities have experts, highly skilled workers of diplomats and government Exemption Certificate for medical screening in designated suspended issuance of new visas or enterprise managers (and officials, will need to undergo a 14- persons of Vietnamese origin areas at ports of entry, along with as of 18 Mar 2020, for 30 days. their dependent family day quarantine period, followed by and their families is temporarily appropriate quarantine measures, a 14-day health supervision period members) are admissible to suspended. are in place for all travelers. upon entry to Vietnam. Vietnam provided that the local ► Foreigners who wish to enter companies sponsoring their ► The following individuals can apply Vietnam for work purposes are entry obtain advance approval to be exempted from the quarantine required to undergo a reverse the Vietnamese authorities. requirement if they will enter transcription COVID-19 polymerase Vietnam for 14 days or less to chain reaction (RT-PCR) test three ► The Vietnamese government is work, attend meetings or sign to seven days prior to their desired looking into options for contracts: foreign investors, entry date into Vietnam. The test admitting additional foreigners experts, highly skilled workers, and must be conducted at a from designated locations in enterprise managers and their government-approved lab or the dependents. Exemptions are Asia (including Japan, South one that is recognized by the World granted at the discretion of the Health Organization. Korea, Taiwan, Laos and Vietnamese authorities. Guangzhou in mainland China). ► Foreigners who test positive for The earliest expected flights ► The city of DaNang imposed a 15- COVID-19 after entering Vietnam into Vietnam from these day social distancing measure on must have international health 28 July 2020. The province of locations are being scheduled insurance to cover the cost of any Quang Nam imposed social required medical treatment. tentatively for July 2020. distancing measures to go into Alternatively, their sponsoring effect 31 July through 14 August entity in Vietnam must commit to 2020. The province of Dak Lak pay for their treatment (if started imposing social distancing required). measures on 30 July 2020.
Page 118 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Zambia • Last updated/validated: 15 December 2020
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► Zambia’s borders are open, but ► Visitors are responsible for ► All existing and valid tourist ► All travelers must present a under tight screening. monitoring their condition for visas have been suspended. New negative COVID-19 polymerase 14 days after arrival, and should tourist and business visit visas chain reaction (PCR) test result, ► International flight availability report any occurrence of can be obtained in advance as where the test was conducted remains limited and COVID-19 symptoms to the well as on arrival in Zambia. within 14 days of their travel to international train and bus medical authorities. There is no Zambia. services are suspended. requirement for visitors to self- ► If the body temperature is equal isolate. to, or above 38.0, and COVID- 19 symptoms (cough, shortness ► Returning residents should self- of breath, headache or sore isolate for 14 days following throat) are present, the traveler their arrival in Zambia. will be tested and taken to a government facility for treatment and quarantine until the tests results are known.
Page 119 Impact of COVID-19 on Global Immigration • Contact: [email protected] • Contact: [email protected] Zimbabwe • Last updated/validated: 15 December 2020
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► There are currently limited ► All travelers will be subject to a ► Tourists and non-residents must commercial flights in and out of 14-day quarantine period. possess a negative COVID-19 Zimbabwe. Those with a negative COVID-19 test result issued no more than test issued within 48 hours of 48 hours prior to their arrival in arrival, as well as those who test Zimbabwe. If they do not have a negative for COVID-19 at the negative COVID-19 test result, airport, may self-isolate at a or if they exhibit COVID-19 like designated address. Anyone symptoms, they will be denied that tests positive for COVID-19 entry to Zimbabwe. at the airport will be required to ► Citizens and residents who do quarantine in a government- not have a negative COVID-19 approved facility. test result, or who exhibit COVID-19 symptoms on arrival, will be detained at a holding facility where they will be required to pay US$60 for a test.
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