During the
COVID-19 pandemic, many countries and territories imposed quarantines, entry bans, or other travel restrictions for citizens of or recent travelers to the most affected areas. Some countries and territories imposed global restrictions that apply to all foreign countries and territories, or prevented their own citizens from travelling overseas.
Travel restrictions reduced the spread of the virus. However, because they were implemented after
community transmission
In medicine, public health, and biology, transmission is the passing of a pathogen causing communicable disease from an infected host individual or group to a particular individual or group, regardless of whether the other individual was previou ...
had begun in several countries around the globe, they produced only a modest reduction in the total number of infections. Travel restrictions may be most important at the start and end of a pandemic.
The travel restrictions brought
a significant economic cost to the global
tourism industry
Tourism is travel for pleasure, and the Commerce, commercial activity of providing and supporting such travel. World Tourism Organization, UN Tourism defines tourism more generally, in terms which go "beyond the common perception of tourism as ...
through lost income and
social impacts on people who were unable to travel internationally. After travel bans lifted, global tourism saw a return to pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2024.
However, some travel, especially
business travel
Business travel is travel undertaken for work or business purposes, as opposed to other types of travel such as leisure trips or daily commuting between one’s home and workplace. It typically involves travelling - often by air, rail, or roa ...
, may decrease in the long-term as lower cost alternatives, such as
teleconferencing
A teleconference or telecon is a live exchange of information among several people remote from one another but linked by a communications system. Terms such as audio conferencing, telephone conferencing, and phone conferencing are also sometime ...
and
virtual event
A virtual event is an online event that involves people interacting in a virtual environment on the web, rather than meeting in a physical location. Virtual events are typically multi-session online events that often feature webinars and webca ...
s have gained preferrence in the professional world. Some countries with large domestic markets, such as the United States, were able to see a faster recovery from increased domestic travel.
Effectiveness
A study in ''
Science
Science is a systematic discipline that builds and organises knowledge in the form of testable hypotheses and predictions about the universe. Modern science is typically divided into twoor threemajor branches: the natural sciences, which stu ...
'' found that travel restrictions could delay the initial arrival of COVID-19 in a country but had only modest overall effects unless combined with
infection prevention and control
Infection prevention and control (IPC) is the discipline concerned with preventing healthcare-associated infections; a practical rather than academic sub-discipline of epidemiology. In Northern Europe, infection prevention and control is expande ...
measures to significantly reduce transmission.
These findings are consistent with prior research on influenza and other communicable diseases.
Travel bans may be most effective for isolated locations, such as small
island nation
An island country, island state, or island nation is a country whose primary territory consists of one or more islands or parts of islands. Approximately 25% of all independent countries are island countries. Island countries are historically ...
s.
Researchers came to the conclusion that "travel restrictions are most useful in the early and late phase of an epidemic" and "restrictions of travel from Wuhan unfortunately came too late".
Effects
Together with a decreased willingness to travel, the restrictions have had a
negative economic and
social impact Social impact may refer to:
*Social impact assessment
*Social impact bond
*Social impact theory
*Social influence
See also
* Corporate social impact
{{Disambig
Impact
Impact may refer to:
* Impact (mechanics), a large force or mechanical sh ...
on the
travel sector in their regions. During the pandemic, "slow travel" grew in popularity as tourists opted to avoid crowded destinations, instead taking their time to explore less well-known locations.
A possible long-term impact has been a decline of
business travel
Business travel is travel undertaken for work or business purposes, as opposed to other types of travel such as leisure trips or daily commuting between one’s home and workplace. It typically involves travelling - often by air, rail, or roa ...
and international conferencing, and the rise of their virtual, online equivalents. Concerns have been raised over the effectiveness of travel restrictions to contain the spread of
COVID-19
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a contagious disease caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. In January 2020, the disease spread worldwide, resulting in the COVID-19 pandemic.
The symptoms of COVID‑19 can vary but often include fever ...
.
Traveling to vaccinated venues that mandate COVID-19 vaccines to tourists/staff
Many tourism venues, including museums, visitor centers, restaurants, and hotels, required COVID-19 vaccination for their staff or visitors, designating them as "vaccinated venues".
Research indicates that tourists have differing beliefs about the effectiveness and side effects of COVID-19 vaccines, which influence their willingness to visit or use these venues.
Countries and territories which implemented a global travel ban
Africa
*
Algeria
Algeria, officially the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria, is a country in the Maghreb region of North Africa. It is bordered to Algeria–Tunisia border, the northeast by Tunisia; to Algeria–Libya border, the east by Libya; to Alger ...
: All international flights to Algeria were suspended. Effective 20 March 2022, people may enter Algeria unrestricted if fully vaccinated, or have received a negative COVID-19 test.
*
The Gambia
The Gambia, officially the Republic of The Gambia, is a country in West Africa. Geographically, The Gambia is the List of African countries by area, smallest country in continental Africa; it is surrounded by Senegal on all sides except for ...
: The sole land border with
Senegal
Senegal, officially the Republic of Senegal, is the westernmost country in West Africa, situated on the Atlantic Ocean coastline. It borders Mauritania to Mauritania–Senegal border, the north, Mali to Mali–Senegal border, the east, Guinea t ...
was closed, along with its airspace to most flights. All COVID-19 related travel restrictions have since been removed.
*
Madagascar
Madagascar, officially the Republic of Madagascar, is an island country that includes the island of Madagascar and numerous smaller peripheral islands. Lying off the southeastern coast of Africa, it is the world's List of islands by area, f ...
: Madagascar suspended all flights with the exception of medical evacuations, repatriations outside of the country, and cargo shipments. Most COVID-19 related travel restrictions have since been removed, as of June 2022. Tourists are still required to have a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival.
*
Mali
Mali, officially the Republic of Mali, is a landlocked country in West Africa. It is the List of African countries by area, eighth-largest country in Africa, with an area of over . The country is bordered to the north by Algeria, to the east b ...
: On 18 March 2020,
President
President most commonly refers to:
*President (corporate title)
* President (education), a leader of a college or university
*President (government title)
President may also refer to:
Arts and entertainment Film and television
*'' Præsident ...
Ibrahim Boubacar Keita
Ibrahim may refer to:
* Ibrahim (name), including a list of people with the name
** Abraham in Islam
* Ibrahim (surah), a surah of the Qur'an
* ''Ibrahim'' (play) or ''Ibrahim The Illustrious Bassa'', a 1676 tragedy by Elkanah Settle, based on a ...
suspended flights from affected countries, closed schools, and banned large public gatherings.
*
Morocco
Morocco, officially the Kingdom of Morocco, is a country in the Maghreb region of North Africa. It has coastlines on the Mediterranean Sea to the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the west, and has land borders with Algeria to Algeria–Morocc ...
: On 15 March 2020, Morocco suspended all international passenger flights to and from the country.
*
Sudan
Sudan, officially the Republic of the Sudan, is a country in Northeast Africa. It borders the Central African Republic to the southwest, Chad to the west, Libya to the northwest, Egypt to the north, the Red Sea to the east, Eritrea and Ethiopi ...
: Effective 17 March 2020, Sudan declared a state of emergency and closed all airports and land borders.
Americas
*
Montserrat
Montserrat ( , ) is a British Overseas Territories, British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean. It is part of the Leeward Islands, the northern portion of the Lesser Antilles chain of the West Indies. Montserrat is about long and wide, wit ...
: During the pandemic, passengers were not allowed to enter Montserrat. In 2022, borders were reopened to international travel.
*
Suriname
Suriname, officially the Republic of Suriname, is a country in northern South America, also considered as part of the Caribbean and the West Indies. It is a developing country with a Human Development Index, high level of human development; i ...
: Closed its borders for all persons and flights starting 14 March 2020.
*
Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago, officially the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, is the southernmost island country in the Caribbean, comprising the main islands of Trinidad and Tobago, along with several List of islands of Trinidad and Tobago, smaller i ...
: On 23 March 2020, Trinidad and Tobago closed its borders to everyone, but began processing exemptions for Trinidad & Tobago citizens and permanent residents. International borders in Trinidad and Tobago remained closed at least until 30 April 2021.
*
Venezuela
Venezuela, officially the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, is a country on the northern coast of South America, consisting of a continental landmass and many Federal Dependencies of Venezuela, islands and islets in the Caribbean Sea. It com ...
: Borders closed to non-residents, effective 10 April 2020. This excludes humanitarian,
medevac
Medical evacuation, often shortened to medevac or medivac, is the timely and efficient movement and en route care provided by medical personnel to patients requiring evacuation or transport using medically equipped air ambulances, helicopters an ...
, and repatriation flights.
Asia
*
Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan, officially the Republic of Azerbaijan, is a Boundaries between the continents, transcontinental and landlocked country at the boundary of West Asia and Eastern Europe. It is a part of the South Caucasus region and is bounded by ...
: Effective 23 March 2020, passengers are not allowed to enter Azerbaijan except passengers with a work permit and passengers with a special permission issued by the government of Azerbaijan.
*
Bhutan
Bhutan, officially the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a landlocked country in South Asia, in the Eastern Himalayas between China to the north and northwest and India to the south and southeast. With a population of over 727,145 and a territory of , ...
: Effective 24 March 2020, all foreign nationals were prohibited from entering Bhutan through any border checkpoints.
*
Brunei
Brunei, officially Brunei Darussalam, is a country in Southeast Asia, situated on the northern coast of the island of Borneo. Apart from its coastline on the South China Sea, it is completely surrounded by the Malaysian state of Sarawak, with ...
: Effective 24 March 2020, all foreigners were not allowed to enter Brunei through any border checkpoints, including those for transit purposes.
*
Cambodia
Cambodia, officially the Kingdom of Cambodia, is a country in Southeast Asia on the Mainland Southeast Asia, Indochinese Peninsula. It is bordered by Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the north, and Vietnam to the east, and has a coastline ...
: Foreign nationals were not allowed to enter Cambodia.
*
India
India, officially the Republic of India, is a country in South Asia. It is the List of countries and dependencies by area, seventh-largest country by area; the List of countries by population (United Nations), most populous country since ...
: Flights to India were suspended on 22 March 2020. This did not apply to flights that carried goods for trade or essential goods and supplies, and their crew members, helpers, cleaners, etc.
*
Indonesia
Indonesia, officially the Republic of Indonesia, is a country in Southeast Asia and Oceania, between the Indian Ocean, Indian and Pacific Ocean, Pacific oceans. Comprising over List of islands of Indonesia, 17,000 islands, including Sumatra, ...
: Effective 1 April 2020, all foreigners (except residents, family connections, medical personnel, and people responsible for transport of goods) were not allowed to enter Indonesia through any border checkpoints, including those for transit purposes.
*
Iran
Iran, officially the Islamic Republic of Iran (IRI) and also known as Persia, is a country in West Asia. It borders Iraq to the west, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Armenia to the northwest, the Caspian Sea to the north, Turkmenistan to the nort ...
: Closed its borders to all non-residents, the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) had halted permits for all tourist, business, and medical visas.
*
Israel
Israel, officially the State of Israel, is a country in West Asia. It Borders of Israel, shares borders with Lebanon to the north, Syria to the north-east, Jordan to the east, Egypt to the south-west, and the Mediterranean Sea to the west. Isr ...
: Effective 28 November 2021, Israel closed its borders again for foreigners due to the
Omicron variant
Omicron (B.1.1.529) is a Variants of SARS-CoV-2, variant of SARS-CoV-2 first reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) by the Network for Genomics Surveillance in South Africa on 24 November 2021. It was first detected in Botswana and has ...
.
*
Japan
Japan is an island country in East Asia. Located in the Pacific Ocean off the northeast coast of the Asia, Asian mainland, it is bordered on the west by the Sea of Japan and extends from the Sea of Okhotsk in the north to the East China Sea ...
: Effective 28 December 2020, Japan closed its borders to all non-residents. As of 29 November 2021, Japan closed its borders also to business travellers and foreign students due to the
Omicron variant
Omicron (B.1.1.529) is a Variants of SARS-CoV-2, variant of SARS-CoV-2 first reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) by the Network for Genomics Surveillance in South Africa on 24 November 2021. It was first detected in Botswana and has ...
.
*
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan, officially the Republic of Kazakhstan, is a landlocked country primarily in Central Asia, with a European Kazakhstan, small portion in Eastern Europe. It borders Russia to the Kazakhstan–Russia border, north and west, China to th ...
: Kazakhstan initially restricted the entry of most foreign nationals before resuming commercial flights with limited capacity. As of 10 October 2020, Kazakhstan has suspended visa-free entry to all foreign nationals. Certain foreign nationals in possession of a valid visa, however, are allowed to enter Kazakhstan, amongst them: students attending higher education institutions in Kazakhstan, permanent residents, crews, immediate family members of citizens or permanent residents of Kazakhstan, certain medical personnel, and foreign diplomats. Citizens of Kazakhstan are allowed to enter without restrictions, but are allowed to leave only to designated countries. A negative result on a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival to the border inspection checkpoint of Kazakhstan is required for all passengers travelling to Kazakhstan. Citizens of Kazakhstan arriving without proof of negative PCR test were subject to quarantine at a government-approved institution, foreign nationals were subject to same-day deportation.
*
Kuwait
Kuwait, officially the State of Kuwait, is a country in West Asia and the geopolitical region known as the Middle East. It is situated in the northern edge of the Arabian Peninsula at the head of the Persian Gulf, bordering Iraq to Iraq–Kuwait ...
: Effective 13 March 2020, Kuwait closed its borders to all non-residents.
*
Laos
Laos, officially the Lao People's Democratic Republic (LPDR), is the only landlocked country in Southeast Asia. It is bordered by Myanmar and China to the northwest, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the southeast, and Thailand to the west and ...
: Closed its borders to all non-residents. All flights to Laos and visa applications were suspended.
*
Malaysia
Malaysia is a country in Southeast Asia. Featuring the Tanjung Piai, southernmost point of continental Eurasia, it is a federation, federal constitutional monarchy consisting of States and federal territories of Malaysia, 13 states and thre ...
: All citizens were
prohibited from leaving the country while foreigners were prohibited from entering the country effective 18 March 2020.
Malaysians
Malaysians (Malay language, Malay: ''Orang Malaysia'') are citizens who are identified with the country of Malaysia. Although citizens make up the majority of Malaysians, non-citizen residents may also claim a Malaysian identity.
The countr ...
were allowed to return to the country.
*
Mongolia
Mongolia is a landlocked country in East Asia, bordered by Russia to the north and China to the south and southeast. It covers an area of , with a population of 3.5 million, making it the world's List of countries and dependencies by po ...
: Effective 12 March 2020, non-citizens were prohibited to enter. As of 21 August 2020, a total entry ban is in place.
*
Myanmar
Myanmar, officially the Republic of the Union of Myanmar; and also referred to as Burma (the official English name until 1989), is a country in northwest Southeast Asia. It is the largest country by area in Mainland Southeast Asia and has ...
: Closed its borders to all non-residents. All flights to Myanmar and visa applications were suspended. Also, due to
Myanmar coup d'état Myanmar coup d'état may refer to the:
* 1962 Burmese coup d'état
* 1988 Burmese coup d'état
* 2021 Myanmar coup d'état
A coup d'état in Myanmar began on the morning of 1 February 2021, when Elections in Myanmar, democratically elected me ...
, all flights to the country are cancelled.
*
North Korea
North Korea, officially the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), is a country in East Asia. It constitutes the northern half of the Korea, Korean Peninsula and borders China and Russia to the north at the Yalu River, Yalu (Amnok) an ...
: Closed its borders to all international tourists on 21 January 2020, one of the first countries to do so. All air and train routes into and out of the country were temporarily suspended, and its border with mainland China was further tightened or closed.
*
Palestine
Palestine, officially the State of Palestine, is a country in West Asia. Recognized by International recognition of Palestine, 147 of the UN's 193 member states, it encompasses the Israeli-occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and th ...
: Tourist ban of the West Bank from 5 March 2020.
*
Philippines
The Philippines, officially the Republic of the Philippines, is an Archipelagic state, archipelagic country in Southeast Asia. Located in the western Pacific Ocean, it consists of List of islands of the Philippines, 7,641 islands, with a tot ...
: Visa issuance and visa-free entry for all foreign nationals was temporarily suspended on 19 March 2020. As of 22 March, all foreign visitors were barred from entry, with exceptions for foreign spouses and children of Filipino citizens, diplomatic officials, and workers for international organizations. Foreigners with long term visas will be allowed entry with restriction starting 1 August.
*
Timor-Leste
Timor-Leste, also known as East Timor, officially the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, is a country in Southeast Asia. It comprises the eastern half of the island of Timor, the coastal exclave of Oecusse in the island's northwest, and ...
: Timor-Leste had restricted the entry of all travelers except for nationals and residents of Timor-Leste.
*
Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan is a landlocked country in Central Asia bordered by Kazakhstan to the northwest, Uzbekistan to the north, east and northeast, Afghanistan to the southeast, Iran to the south and southwest and the Caspian Sea to the west. Ash ...
: Starting 20 March 2020, the national border of Turkmenistan was restricted to foreign citizens and stateless persons.
*
Vietnam
Vietnam, officially the Socialist Republic of Vietnam (SRV), is a country at the eastern edge of mainland Southeast Asia, with an area of about and a population of over 100 million, making it the world's List of countries and depende ...
: Effective 22 March 2020, entry of all foreigners was suspended. Visa applications were also suspended with a small number of exceptions for diplomats on official business.
*
Yemen
Yemen, officially the Republic of Yemen, is a country in West Asia. Located in South Arabia, southern Arabia, it borders Saudi Arabia to Saudi Arabia–Yemen border, the north, Oman to Oman–Yemen border, the northeast, the south-eastern part ...
: On 17 March 2020, Yemen suspended all flights and closed land crossings.
Oceania
*
Marshall Islands
The Marshall Islands, officially the Republic of the Marshall Islands, is an island country west of the International Date Line and north of the equator in the Micronesia region of the Northwestern Pacific Ocean.
The territory consists of 29 c ...
: Passengers were not allowed to enter Marshall Islands until 31 May 2021.
*
New Caledonia
New Caledonia ( ; ) is a group of islands in the southwest Pacific Ocean, southwest of Vanuatu and east of Australia. Located from Metropolitan France, it forms a Overseas France#Sui generis collectivity, ''sui generis'' collectivity of t ...
: Passengers except parents of a French minor and spouses of a national of France were not allowed to enter New Caledonia.
*
Fiji
Fiji, officially the Republic of Fiji, is an island country in Melanesia, part of Oceania in the South Pacific Ocean. It lies about north-northeast of New Zealand. Fiji consists of an archipelago of more than 330 islands—of which about ...
: Borders were closed to all non-citizens.
*
French Polynesia
French Polynesia ( ; ; ) is an overseas collectivity of France and its sole #Governance, overseas country. It comprises 121 geographically dispersed islands and atolls stretching over more than in the Pacific Ocean, South Pacific Ocean. The t ...
: As of 3 February 2021, borders of French Polynesia were closed once again.
*
Tuvalu
Tuvalu ( ) is an island country in the Polynesian subregion of Oceania in the Pacific Ocean, about midway between Hawaii and Australia. It lies east-northeast of the Santa Cruz Islands (which belong to the Solomon Islands), northeast of Van ...
: Tuvalu's borders were closed.
*
Vanuatu
Vanuatu ( or ; ), officially the Republic of Vanuatu (; ), is an island country in Melanesia located in the South Pacific Ocean. The archipelago, which is of volcanic origin, is east of northern Australia, northeast of New Caledonia, east o ...
: Vanuatu ports of entry were closed on 20 March 2020.
Non-global restrictions
Just under a quarter of all countries (45) have implemented measures that affect citizens of, or recent travellers to, a particular country or set of countries. Many of these countries later expanded their restrictions, with some later implementing global restrictions.
Americas
*
Aruba
Aruba, officially the Country of Aruba, is a constituent island country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, in the southern Caribbean Sea north of the Venezuelan peninsula of Paraguaná Peninsula, Paraguaná and northwest of Curaçao. In 19 ...
: As of 1 July 2020, Aruba has reopened borders for citizens of the Caribbean, Europe, United States and Canada.
*
Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe is an Overseas departments and regions of France, overseas department and region of France in the Caribbean. It consists of six inhabited islands—Basse-Terre Island, Basse-Terre, Grande-Terre, Guadeloupe, Grande-Terre, Marie-Galant ...
: As of 1 July 2020, citizens of all nations are permitted to enter Guadeloupe for tourism with the exception of: USA, Brazil, India, Israel, Russia, and Turkmenistan.
*
Peru
Peru, officially the Republic of Peru, is a country in western South America. It is bordered in the north by Ecuador and Colombia, in the east by Brazil, in the southeast by Bolivia, in the south by Chile, and in the south and west by the Pac ...
: After a 7-month lockdown, Peru reopened its international borders on 5 October 2020 for tourism to Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Panama, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Asia
*
China
China, officially the People's Republic of China (PRC), is a country in East Asia. With population of China, a population exceeding 1.4 billion, it is the list of countries by population (United Nations), second-most populous country after ...
: Foreign nationals can travel to China if they meet one of the following requirements: holding a valid Chinese residence permit for work, personal matters or reunion, holding Diplomatic, Service or Courtesy visa issued after 28 March 2020. All travelers must present two negative tests - PCR and antibody tests, taken within 48 hours of travel to obtain a green
Health Code
A Health Code ( zh, , ''Jiànkāngmǎ'') is a type of application used during COVID-19 in mainland China. It was used as an e-passport that reports if the user has been in an area with current cases of infection. An applicant provides informa ...
for boarding.
*
Hong Kong
Hong Kong)., Legally Hong Kong, China in international treaties and organizations. is a special administrative region of China. With 7.5 million residents in a territory, Hong Kong is the fourth most densely populated region in the wor ...
: Closed its borders to all non-residents on 24 March 2020. Non-Hong Kong residents arriving from mainland China, Macau and Taiwan who have not been in any overseas countries/territories in the past 14 days are exempted from the ban, but they are still subject to compulsory quarantine for 14 days as other arrivals to Hong Kong. Since Chinese tourists are only allowed to stay in Hong Kong with
a valid visa for maximum 7 days, they are also banned from entering the territory. Effective 25 March 2020, all persons arriving in Hong Kong, regardless of whether they are Hong Kong residents, are subject to compulsory quarantine. As of 25 December 2020, compulsory quarantine at designated hotels had been extended to 21 days, from 14 days.
*
Macau
Macau or Macao is a special administrative regions of China, special administrative region of the People's Republic of China (PRC). With a population of about people and a land area of , it is the most List of countries and dependencies by p ...
: Entry denied to all travellers except residents of mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan. As of 21 November 2020, people visiting Macau from most locations – except those coming from the mainland or Taiwan – will be required to undergo a 21-day medical observation upon arrival versus the previously mandated 14 days. As of 23 December 2020, residents from mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan who have travelled overseas in the 21 days prior to their arrival will also be denied entry.
*
Singapore
Singapore, officially the Republic of Singapore, is an island country and city-state in Southeast Asia. The country's territory comprises one main island, 63 satellite islands and islets, and one outlying islet. It is about one degree ...
: All foreigners were prohibited entry and transit starting from 23 March 2020 to 19 October 2021. As of 29 November 2021, Singapore is open for vaccinated tourists from the following countries: Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, the Netherlands, the Republic of Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States.
*
Taiwan
Taiwan, officially the Republic of China (ROC), is a country in East Asia. The main geography of Taiwan, island of Taiwan, also known as ''Formosa'', lies between the East China Sea, East and South China Seas in the northwestern Pacific Ocea ...
: Foreign nationals are now permitted to enter Taiwan, with the exception of tourist visitors. As of 25 February 2021, all inbound and transit travelers are required to provide a COVID-19
RT-PCR
Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is a laboratory technique combining reverse transcription of RNA into DNA (in this context called complementary DNA or cDNA) and amplification of specific DNA targets using polymerase chain ...
negative test report issued within three working days of their incoming flight's scheduled departure time. Travelers also need to use their mobile phone to fill out a health declaration form prior to their departure, and make an
affidavit
An ( ; Medieval Latin for "he has declared under oath") is a written statement voluntarily made by an ''affiant'' or ''deposition (law), deponent'' under an oath or affirmation which is administered by a person who is authorized to do so by la ...
stating that the location of their 14-day home quarantine (in a quarantine hotel or in a home with one person per residence) meets relevant regulations.
*
Thailand
Thailand, officially the Kingdom of Thailand and historically known as Siam (the official name until 1939), is a country in Southeast Asia on the Mainland Southeast Asia, Indochinese Peninsula. With a population of almost 66 million, it spa ...
: On 1 November 2021 Thailand reopened to vaccinated tourists from 63 countries with no quarantine condition.
*
Uzbekistan
, image_flag = Flag of Uzbekistan.svg
, image_coat = Emblem of Uzbekistan.svg
, symbol_type = Emblem of Uzbekistan, Emblem
, national_anthem = "State Anthem of Uzbekistan, State Anthem of the Republ ...
: Uzbekistan has resumed international flights for certain categories of travelers from countries deemed to have a stable epidemiological situation. The complete list of countries includes the EU, Japan, South Korea, China, Israel, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, Russia and CIS countries (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, and Tajikistan).
Europe
Earlier before the announcement of the pandemic by the
World Health Organization
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a list of specialized agencies of the United Nations, specialized agency of the United Nations which coordinates responses to international public health issues and emergencies. It is headquartered in Gen ...
, the
European Union
The European Union (EU) is a supranational union, supranational political union, political and economic union of Member state of the European Union, member states that are Geography of the European Union, located primarily in Europe. The u ...
rejected the idea of suspending the
Schengen free travel zone and introducing border controls with Italy, a decision which has been criticised by some European politicians. After some EU member states announced complete closure of their national borders to foreign nationals in March 2020, the
European Commission
The European Commission (EC) is the primary Executive (government), executive arm of the European Union (EU). It operates as a cabinet government, with a number of European Commissioner, members of the Commission (directorial system, informall ...
President
Ursula von der Leyen
Ursula Gertrud von der Leyen (; ; born 8 October 1958) is a German politician, serving as president of the European Commission since 2019. She served in the Cabinet of Germany, German federal government between 2005 and 2019, holding position ...
said that "Certain controls may be justified, but general travel bans are not seen as being the most effective by the World Health Organization." A few days later the EU closed its external borders.
The European Council agreed on 17 March 2020 to ban incoming travel other than citizens from countries in the European Union,
European Economic Area
The European Economic Area (EEA) was established via the ''Agreement on the European Economic Area'', an international agreement which enables the extension of the European Union's single market to member states of the European Free Trade Asso ...
, Switzerland and United Kingdom,
long-term residents and people with long-term visa or residence permits, family members of EU and EEA citizens, medical personnel and people responsible for transport of goods for 30 days.
Each country had to implement the decision on the national level. Ireland choose to opt out from the decision due to the
Common Travel Area
The Common Travel Area (CTA; , ) is an open borders area comprising the United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, Ireland, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands. The British Overseas Territories are not included. Governed by non-binding agreements ...
. The agreement was to close borders for 30 days starting at noon on 17 March, though enforcement did not begin immediately as planned. By the end of March, all EU member states (except Ireland) and all associated Schengen states (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland) had introduced the travel restriction. The restriction was later repeatedly prolonged until 30 June. These restrictions did not only refer to travel between countries from March to June. In Spain, for example, mobility had been restricted and public transport had been greatly affected by the lockdowns imposed by the government and only essential travels had been allowed under severe restrictions. Some member states went further and also prohibited EU and EEA citizens from entering, unless they are permanently living in the country or transiting to their home country, which was generally still possible. On 1 July 2020, the global travel ban was replaced by non-global travel ban.
The EU Council recommended a gradual lifting of the temporary restrictions on travel into the EU (including Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway and Switzerland) from 1 July 2020. The European Council had adopted a Recommendation on the gradual lifting of the temporary restrictions on non-essential travel into the EU on 30 June. Travel restrictions were lifted for countries listed in the recommendation. The list was updated, in principle, every two weeks. Several countries (Algeria, Canada, Georgia, Jordan, Morocco, Montenegro, Serbia, Tunisia and Uruguay) have been removed from the EU designated COVID-19 safe countries list since it was introduced on 30 June 2020, and no new country was ever added to that list. As of 16 December 2020, the Safe Countries list included Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea and Thailand. Traveling citizens from China will be allowed entry based on the re-opening of its borders to European travelers. British nationals were no longer considered EU citizens starting 1 January 2021 and were subject to each member state's travel restriction on non-EU nationals. For the purpose of the recommendation residents of Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and the Vatican were also considered EU residents. The recommendation was not a legally binding instrument and the member states were responsible for implementing it.
On 28 January 2021, the European Union reinstated a travel ban from Japan due to an alarming rise in COVID-19 cases, removing Japan from the EU's safe countries list. The following countries were listed as safe countries amidst the pandemic – Australia, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, New Zealand and Thailand. The European Council suggested member states to gradually remove restrictions for China, subject to confirmation of reciprocity.
* Countries in the European Union/
Schengen Area
The Schengen Area ( , ) encompasses European countries that have officially abolished border controls at their common borders. As an element within the wider area of freedom, security and justice (AFSJ) policy of the European Union (EU), it ...
:
**
Austria
Austria, formally the Republic of Austria, is a landlocked country in Central Europe, lying in the Eastern Alps. It is a federation of nine Federal states of Austria, states, of which the capital Vienna is the List of largest cities in Aust ...
: Entry from EU/EEA countries (including UK, Vatican City, Andorra, Monaco, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and San Marino) was allowed without PCR test or mandatory quarantine, only if the traveler could prove that they were in only one of those countries in the past 10 days. Entry from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea and Uruguay was also allowed on condition that the traveler could prove they had been in only one of those countries in the past 10 days, with no restrictions. There were restrictions for arrivals coming from parts of Croatia, France, Portugal, Spain, Bulgaria and Romania.
**
Belgium
Belgium, officially the Kingdom of Belgium, is a country in Northwestern Europe. Situated in a coastal lowland region known as the Low Countries, it is bordered by the Netherlands to the north, Germany to the east, Luxembourg to the southeas ...
: Entry from all EU and Schengen countries and the Safe Countries designated by European Council is allowed with no restrictions. If travelers visit certain parts of several countries in Europe, they must quarantine or take a COVID-19 test upon returning to Belgium. These include areas of Bulgaria, Cyprus, certain regions in Germany, several French departments, Greece, several areas in Croatia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, some provinces in the Netherlands, large swathes of Spain and the United Kingdom, among others.
**
Bulgaria
Bulgaria, officially the Republic of Bulgaria, is a country in Southeast Europe. It is situated on the eastern portion of the Balkans directly south of the Danube river and west of the Black Sea. Bulgaria is bordered by Greece and Turkey t ...
: Bulgaria opened its borders on 1 June 2020 to EU countries, the UK, San Marino, Andorra, Monaco, Vatican, Serbia and North Macedonia citizens. Travellers from Algeria, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, Morocco, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia, Uruguay, Ukraine are allowed in too with no need to present a negative COVID-19 test.
**
Croatia
Croatia, officially the Republic of Croatia, is a country in Central Europe, Central and Southeast Europe, on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. It borders Slovenia to the northwest, Hungary to the northeast, Serbia to the east, Bosnia and Herze ...
: Entry from EU countries (including UK, Vatican City, Andorra, Monaco, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and San Marino) is allowed with no restrictions.
**
Cyprus
Cyprus (), officially the Republic of Cyprus, is an island country in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. Situated in West Asia, its cultural identity and geopolitical orientation are overwhelmingly Southeast European. Cyprus is the List of isl ...
: As of 6 June 2020, Cyprus is open for tourism. Authorities have created three categories based on countries' epidemiological situation, which detail if passengers from these destinations are allowed to enter and under what conditions.
**
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic, also known as Czechia, and historically known as Bohemia, is a landlocked country in Central Europe. The country is bordered by Austria to the south, Germany to the west, Poland to the northeast, and Slovakia to the south ...
: Travel into the Czech Republic for any purpose, including tourism is allowed.
**
Denmark
Denmark is a Nordic countries, Nordic country in Northern Europe. It is the metropole and most populous constituent of the Kingdom of Denmark,, . also known as the Danish Realm, a constitutionally unitary state that includes the Autonomous a ...
: Non-essential travel from most EU countries was banned. Additionally, non-citizens with clear symptoms cannot enter Denmark.
**
Estonia
Estonia, officially the Republic of Estonia, is a country in Northern Europe. It is bordered to the north by the Gulf of Finland across from Finland, to the west by the Baltic Sea across from Sweden, to the south by Latvia, and to the east by Ru ...
: Entry from EU countries (including UK, Vatican City, Andorra, Monaco, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and San Marino) is allowed with no restrictions.
**
Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands ( ) (alt. the Faroes) are an archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean and an autonomous territory of the Danish Realm, Kingdom of Denmark. Located between Iceland, Norway, and the United Kingdom, the islands have a populat ...
: Faroe Islands allows travelers to enter from countries defined as "open" by Denmark. The Danish Government has announced that countries other than EU Member States, Schengen countries and the United Kingdom are currently by definition banned countries. All people travelling to the Faroe Islands must be tested for COVID-19. This requirement also applies to Faroese citizens and residents who have been travelling abroad.
**
Finland
Finland, officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country in Northern Europe. It borders Sweden to the northwest, Norway to the north, and Russia to the east, with the Gulf of Bothnia to the west and the Gulf of Finland to the south, ...
: As of 12 October 2020, non-essential travel from all EU/Schengen countries is banned.
**
France
France, officially the French Republic, is a country located primarily in Western Europe. Overseas France, Its overseas regions and territories include French Guiana in South America, Saint Pierre and Miquelon in the Atlantic Ocean#North Atlan ...
: Travellers from EU member states as well as Andorra, Australia, Canada, Georgia, the Holy See, Iceland, Japan, Liechtenstein, Monaco, New Zealand, Norway, Rwanda, San Marino, South Korea, Switzerland, Thailand, Tunisia, the United Kingdom and Uruguay have been allowed to visit the county since 15 June without a health certificate or any form of quarantine upon arrival.
**
Germany
Germany, officially the Federal Republic of Germany, is a country in Central Europe. It lies between the Baltic Sea and the North Sea to the north and the Alps to the south. Its sixteen States of Germany, constituent states have a total popu ...
: Entry from most of EU countries (including UK, Vatican City, Andorra, Monaco, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and San Marino) is allowed with no restrictions. Travellers from some EU countries are required to have negative COVID-19 test.
**
Greece
Greece, officially the Hellenic Republic, is a country in Southeast Europe. Located on the southern tip of the Balkan peninsula, it shares land borders with Albania to the northwest, North Macedonia and Bulgaria to the north, and Turkey to th ...
: Entry from EU countries (including UK, Vatican City, Andorra, Monaco, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and San Marino) is allowed with no restrictions.
**
Greenland
Greenland is an autonomous territory in the Danish Realm, Kingdom of Denmark. It is by far the largest geographically of three constituent parts of the kingdom; the other two are metropolitan Denmark and the Faroe Islands. Citizens of Greenlan ...
: Greenland allows travelers to enter from countries defined as "open" by Denmark. They must have a COVID-19 test taken in a Nordic country in the 5 days before travel. All travellers upon arrival in Greenland must go into 14 days quarantine.
**
Iceland
Iceland is a Nordic countries, Nordic island country between the Atlantic Ocean, North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge between North America and Europe. It is culturally and politically linked with Europe and is the regi ...
Iceland allowed tourists to arrive from 15 June 2020, however, COVID-19 tests is mandatory. Iceland has restricted the entry of all travelers who are not nationals of EEA Member States, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, Switzerland, Vatican City, or the United Kingdom. Iceland allows foreign citizens that are verifiably residents in and traveling from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea or Thailand.
**
Italy
Italy, officially the Italian Republic, is a country in Southern Europe, Southern and Western Europe, Western Europe. It consists of Italian Peninsula, a peninsula that extends into the Mediterranean Sea, with the Alps on its northern land b ...
: Borders in Italy opened 3 June 2020 to citizens from the EU, UK, Schengen area, Andorra, Vatican City, San Marino and Monaco, following a nationwide lockdown which came into force on 9 March.
On 3 December 2020, a new Decree by the Prime Minister (DPCM) was approved, which contained provisions for the national territory and for travel to/from abroad. These provisions were in force from 4 December 2020, to 15 January 2021. Travelers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Republic of Korea, Singapore and Thailand are allowed to enter.
**
Latvia
Latvia, officially the Republic of Latvia, is a country in the Baltic region of Northern Europe. It is one of the three Baltic states, along with Estonia to the north and Lithuania to the south. It borders Russia to the east and Belarus to t ...
: Entry from most of EU countries (including UK, Vatican City, Andorra, Monaco, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and San Marino) is allowed with no restrictions. Travellers from some EU countries are required to have negative COVID-19 test. Since 10 October 2020, Latvia has introduced a ten-day quarantine from travellers from high-risk countries.
**
Lithuania
Lithuania, officially the Republic of Lithuania, is a country in the Baltic region of Europe. It is one of three Baltic states and lies on the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea, bordered by Latvia to the north, Belarus to the east and south, P ...
: Entry from EU countries (including UK, Vatican City, Andorra, Monaco, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and San Marino) is allowed with no restrictions.
**
Malta
Malta, officially the Republic of Malta, is an island country in Southern Europe located in the Mediterranean Sea, between Sicily and North Africa. It consists of an archipelago south of Italy, east of Tunisia, and north of Libya. The two ...
: Entry from EU countries (including UK, Vatican City, Andorra, Monaco, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and San Marino) is allowed with no restrictions.
**
Norway
Norway, officially the Kingdom of Norway, is a Nordic countries, Nordic country located on the Scandinavian Peninsula in Northern Europe. The remote Arctic island of Jan Mayen and the archipelago of Svalbard also form part of the Kingdom of ...
: Travellers from EEA/Schengen countries with "acceptable levels of infection" have been able to visit the country since 15 July 2020. Norway currently has a 10-day quarantine (at a designated quarantine hotel for non-residents) for those returning from international travel.
**
Poland
Poland, officially the Republic of Poland, is a country in Central Europe. It extends from the Baltic Sea in the north to the Sudetes and Carpathian Mountains in the south, bordered by Lithuania and Russia to the northeast, Belarus and Ukrai ...
: Borders reopened for EU nationals on 13 June 2020 with no quarantine condition, and some international flights from within the bloc have restarted.
**
Portugal
Portugal, officially the Portuguese Republic, is a country on the Iberian Peninsula in Southwestern Europe. Featuring Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point in continental Europe, Portugal borders Spain to its north and east, with which it share ...
: Nationals of EU countries, Schengen area and passengers on flights from the UK, Brazil, the Community of Portuguese Language Countries, the US, Canada, Venezuela and South Africa are allowed in the country.
**
Romania
Romania is a country located at the crossroads of Central Europe, Central, Eastern Europe, Eastern and Southeast Europe. It borders Ukraine to the north and east, Hungary to the west, Serbia to the southwest, Bulgaria to the south, Moldova to ...
: People coming from EU countries as well as Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein may enter but they must self-isolate for 14 days if the incidence rate in their country of origin is greater than the one in Romania.
**
Slovakia
Slovakia, officially the Slovak Republic, is a landlocked country in Central Europe. It is bordered by Poland to the north, Ukraine to the east, Hungary to the south, Austria to the west, and the Czech Republic to the northwest. Slovakia's m ...
: Entry from most of EU countries (including UK, Vatican City, Andorra, Monaco, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and San Marino) is allowed with no restrictions. Everyone entering the country from abroad must provide a negative PCR test taken within the previous 72 hours, or self-isolate for 10 days or until they present a negative test.
**
Slovenia
Slovenia, officially the Republic of Slovenia, is a country in Central Europe. It borders Italy to the west, Austria to the north, Hungary to the northeast, Croatia to the south and southeast, and a short (46.6 km) coastline within the Adriati ...
: Entry from most of EU countries (including UK, Vatican City, Andorra, Monaco, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and San Marino) is allowed with no restrictions. Travellers from some EU countries are required to have negative COVID-19 test. Anyone entering from a country with high levels of COVID-19 will have to quarantine for 14 days.
**
Spain
Spain, or the Kingdom of Spain, is a country in Southern Europe, Southern and Western Europe with territories in North Africa. Featuring the Punta de Tarifa, southernmost point of continental Europe, it is the largest country in Southern Eur ...
: Spain reopened its borders to EU member states, Schengen area countries and the UK on 21 June. None of these travellers have to self-isolate.
**
Sweden
Sweden, formally the Kingdom of Sweden, is a Nordic countries, Nordic country located on the Scandinavian Peninsula in Northern Europe. It borders Norway to the west and north, and Finland to the east. At , Sweden is the largest Nordic count ...
: Beginning 19 March 2020, there was an entry ban which applied to all foreign citizens attempting to enter Sweden from all countries except those in the EEA, the UK and Switzerland.
**
Switzerland
Switzerland, officially the Swiss Confederation, is a landlocked country located in west-central Europe. It is bordered by Italy to the south, France to the west, Germany to the north, and Austria and Liechtenstein to the east. Switzerland ...
: Switzerland reopened borders to all EU countries, the UK, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein on 15 June 2020.
* Other European countries:
**
Isle of Man
The Isle of Man ( , also ), or Mann ( ), is a self-governing British Crown Dependency in the Irish Sea, between Great Britain and Ireland. As head of state, Charles III holds the title Lord of Mann and is represented by a Lieutenant Govern ...
: As of 28 June 2021, Isle of Man reopens borders to non-residents. Any visitors will have to apply for a permit in advance of their trip.
**
Moldova
Moldova, officially the Republic of Moldova, is a Landlocked country, landlocked country in Eastern Europe, with an area of and population of 2.42 million. Moldova is bordered by Romania to the west and Ukraine to the north, east, and south. ...
: As of 1 September 2020, Moldova opened its borders for citizens of 53 countries.
**
Russia
Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a country spanning Eastern Europe and North Asia. It is the list of countries and dependencies by area, largest country in the world, and extends across Time in Russia, eleven time zones, sharing Borders ...
: As of 4 September 2021, Russia has reopened its borders to nationals and residents of 49 countries, allowing tourists to visit. All passengers from approved countries must have a negative PCR test, taken no longer than 72 hours before arrival.
**
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom (UK) or Britain, is a country in Northwestern Europe, off the coast of European mainland, the continental mainland. It comprises England, Scotlan ...
: All incoming passengers must complete a
passenger locator form
A passenger locator form (PLF) is a form used by some countries to obtain information about incoming passengers prior to international travel. It typically requests contact, journey, and stay details.
It may take the form of a physical document, o ...
in advance, including their departure country and UK address. They also have to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours before travelling to be allowed entry. Travellers must then self-isolate for 10 days. A rule taking effect 2 August 2021 will remove the isolation requirement for fully vaccinated people coming from Europe and the US. As of January 2021, there were travel bans on 33 countries "where the risk of a new variant is greatest". Under its 33 'red list countries', the UK banned all direct flights from the UAE due to rising concerns over the spread of a South African COVID-19 variant. Those arriving from the UAE in the previous 10 days were not be allowed to enter the UK. UK nationals and people with residency rights coming via UAE could enter the UK but must self-isolate in government-approved hotels for 10 days. Failure to do so would imply a fine up to £10,000 or a prison sentence up to 10 years.
Oceania
*
Australia
Australia, officially the Commonwealth of Australia, is a country comprising mainland Australia, the mainland of the Australia (continent), Australian continent, the island of Tasmania and list of islands of Australia, numerous smaller isl ...
: Entry denied to all travellers except residents of New Zealand and Singapore. Since 16 October 2020, all arrivals from
New Zealand
New Zealand () is an island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It consists of two main landmasses—the North Island () and the South Island ()—and List of islands of New Zealand, over 600 smaller islands. It is the List of isla ...
regardless of citizenship can enter Australia, without having to undergo mandatory quarantine (provided they have been in New Zealand for at least 14 days). This arrangement was partially suspended from 25 to 31 January, 15–21 and 25 February – 20 March 2021, due to community transmission in New Zealand. However, any person – regardless of citizenship or residency status – travelling to Australia from any other international destination will be required to undergo a compulsory 14-day quarantine, beginning from their date of arrival. The regulations, effective from 16 March 2020, also ban cruise ships arriving from international waters from docking at any Australian port. According to
Josh Frydenberg
Joshua Anthony Frydenberg (; born 17 July 1971) is an Australian former politician who served as the treasurer of Australia and deputy leader of the Liberal Party from 2018 to 2022. He also served as a member of parliament (MP) for the divisi ...
, the
Treasurer of Australia
The Treasurer of Australia, also known as the Federal Treasurer or more simply the Treasurer, is the Federal Executive Council (Australia), minister of state of the Australia, Commonwealth of Australia charged with overseeing government revenu ...
, Australia's international borders would largely remain closed until mid-2022 at the earliest. Only fully vaccinated citizens, permanent residents, and their immediate family, as well as fully vaccinated travellers from New Zealand and Singapore, were allowed in.
*
New Zealand
New Zealand () is an island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It consists of two main landmasses—the North Island () and the South Island ()—and List of islands of New Zealand, over 600 smaller islands. It is the List of isla ...
: Entry was denied to all travellers except residents of Australia. Quarantine-free flights from New Zealand to Australia began in October 2020 and from Australia to New Zealand in April 2021.
The Australia/New Zealand travel bubble was suspended on 24 July 2021 due to Delta outbreaks in Australia.
Since 21 January 2021, all arrivals from the
Cook Islands
The Cook Islands is an island country in Polynesia, part of Oceania in the South Pacific Ocean. It consists of 15 islands whose total land area is approximately . The Cook Islands' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) covers of ocean. Avarua is its ...
can enter New Zealand, without having to undergo mandatory quarantine (provided they have been in Cook Islands for at least 14 days). However, on 19 March 2020 borders were closed to all other non-citizens and non-residents including the previously exempt Pacific Islands or temporary visa holders. On 15 March 2020, any person entering New Zealand from overseas, including New Zealand citizens, was required to undergo mandatory Managed Isolation and Quarantine (MIQ), for 14 days following entry. All cruise ships were banned.
Countries and territories open for tourism
A majority of countries are open for tourism. Some entry restrictions may be in place, such as requiring a PCR test or proof of vaccination.
Africa
*
Benin
Benin, officially the Republic of Benin, is a country in West Africa. It was formerly known as Dahomey. It is bordered by Togo to the west, Nigeria to the east, Burkina Faso to the north-west, and Niger to the north-east. The majority of its po ...
: Benin has resumed most transportation options (including airport operations) and business operations (including day cares and schools), although land borders remain closed to most travelers.
*
Botswana
Botswana, officially the Republic of Botswana, is a landlocked country in Southern Africa. Botswana is topographically flat, with approximately 70 percent of its territory part of the Kalahari Desert. It is bordered by South Africa to the sou ...
: As of 1 December 2020, citizens from all countries are welcome in Botswana under regular visa laws, all passengers must have a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours before arrival.
*
Cape Verde
Cape Verde or Cabo Verde, officially the Republic of Cabo Verde, is an island country and archipelagic state of West Africa in the central Atlantic Ocean, consisting of ten volcanic islands with a combined land area of about . These islands ...
: As of 12 October 2020, Cape Verde is officially open for tourism. All travelers must provide the results of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of arrival.
*
Democratic Republic of the Congo
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), also known as the DR Congo, Congo-Kinshasa, or simply the Congo (the last ambiguously also referring to the neighbouring Republic of the Congo), is a country in Central Africa. By land area, it is t ...
: As of 15 August 2020, The Democratic Republic of the Congo has resumed commercial flights. All travelers need to present a negative COVID-19 test.
*
Djibouti
Djibouti, officially the Republic of Djibouti, is a country in the Horn of Africa, bordered by Somalia to the south, Ethiopia to the southwest, Eritrea in the north, and the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden to the east. The country has an area ...
: As of 18 July 2020, Djiboutian air, sea and land borders have reopened.
*
Egypt
Egypt ( , ), officially the Arab Republic of Egypt, is a country spanning the Northeast Africa, northeast corner of Africa and Western Asia, southwest corner of Asia via the Sinai Peninsula. It is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to northe ...
: As of 1 July 2020, Egypt is officially open for tourism. As of 15 August, all passengers must have a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours before arrival.
*
Ethiopia
Ethiopia, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, is a landlocked country located in the Horn of Africa region of East Africa. It shares borders with Eritrea to the north, Djibouti to the northeast, Somalia to the east, Ken ...
: Ethiopia has reopened its airports for international arrivals. Passengers will need to bring a negative PCR test taken within 5 days of arrival. They are also required to self-isolate at home for 14 days.
*
Ghana
Ghana, officially the Republic of Ghana, is a country in West Africa. It is situated along the Gulf of Guinea and the Atlantic Ocean to the south, and shares borders with Côte d’Ivoire to the west, Burkina Faso to the north, and Togo to t ...
: As of 1 September 2020, Ghana is officially open for tourism, all new arrivals must take a coronavirus test 72 hours prior to arrival.
*
Kenya
Kenya, officially the Republic of Kenya, is a country located in East Africa. With an estimated population of more than 52.4 million as of mid-2024, Kenya is the 27th-most-populous country in the world and the 7th most populous in Africa. ...
: As of 1 August 2020, Kenya has opened its international airports to regular air traffic. All arriving passengers on international flights whose body temperature is NOT above 37.5 °C (99.5 °F); do NOT have a persistent cough, difficulty in breathing or other flu-like symptoms; have negative PCR based COVID–19 test carried out within 96 hours before travel and are from countries considered low to medium risk COVID–19 transmission areas would be exempt from quarantine.
*
Liberia
Liberia, officially the Republic of Liberia, is a country on the West African coast. It is bordered by Sierra Leone to Liberia–Sierra Leone border, its northwest, Guinea to Guinea–Liberia border, its north, Ivory Coast to Ivory Coast–Lib ...
: As of 29 June 2020, Liberia has opened its international airport to regular air traffic.
*
Mauritius
Mauritius, officially the Republic of Mauritius, is an island country in the Indian Ocean, about off the southeastern coast of East Africa, east of Madagascar. It includes the main island (also called Mauritius), as well as Rodrigues, Ag ...
: On 15 July 2021, Mauritius reopened its borders for vaccinated travellers after 16 months of closure. Travelers must present proof of a negative PCR COVID-19 test taken no longer than 72 hours before departure.
*
Namibia
Namibia, officially the Republic of Namibia, is a country on the west coast of Southern Africa. Its borders include the Atlantic Ocean to the west, Angola and Zambia to the north, Botswana to the east and South Africa to the south; in the no ...
: As of 1 September 2020, Namibia has reopened its international airport to regular air traffic.
*
Nigeria
Nigeria, officially the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is a country in West Africa. It is situated between the Sahel to the north and the Gulf of Guinea in the Atlantic Ocean to the south. It covers an area of . With Demographics of Nigeria, ...
: As of 5 September 2020, Nigeria has reopened its international airports to regular air traffic. All countries can once again enter Nigeria under normal visa rules.
*
Republic of the Congo
The Republic of the Congo, also known as Congo-Brazzaville, the Congo Republic or simply the Congo (the last ambiguously also referring to the neighbouring Democratic Republic of the Congo), is a country located on the western coast of Central ...
: As of 24 August, The Republic of Congo reopened its international airports and international passenger flights have resumed. Travelers entering the Republic of Congo must present a negative COVID-19 test from within 72 hours of departure upon arrival.
*
Rwanda
Rwanda, officially the Republic of Rwanda, is a landlocked country in the Great Rift Valley of East Africa, where the African Great Lakes region and Southeast Africa converge. Located a few degrees south of the Equator, Rwanda is bordered by ...
: As of 1 August 2020, Rwanda has opened its international airport to regular air traffic.
*
Seychelles
Seychelles (, ; ), officially the Republic of Seychelles (; Seychellois Creole: ), is an island country and archipelagic state consisting of 155 islands (as per the Constitution) in the Indian Ocean. Its capital and largest city, Victoria, ...
: On 25 March 2021, the Seychelles have reopened to tourists from all countries. All travelers need to present a negative COVID-19 test.
*
Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone, officially the Republic of Sierra Leone, is a country on the southwest coast of West Africa. It is bordered to the southeast by Liberia and by Guinea to the north. Sierra Leone's land area is . It has a tropical climate and envi ...
: Sierra Leone reopened for tourism on 22 July 2020.
*
South Africa
South Africa, officially the Republic of South Africa (RSA), is the Southern Africa, southernmost country in Africa. Its Provinces of South Africa, nine provinces are bounded to the south by of coastline that stretches along the Atlantic O ...
: As of 1 October 2020, South Africa is officially open for tourism, all new arrivals not in possession of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours will be required to test on arrival.
*
Tanzania
Tanzania, officially the United Republic of Tanzania, is a country in East Africa within the African Great Lakes region. It is bordered by Uganda to the northwest; Kenya to the northeast; the Indian Ocean to the east; Mozambique and Malawi to t ...
: Tanzania has not implemented any entry restrictions.
*
Togo
Togo, officially the Togolese Republic, is a country in West Africa. It is bordered by Ghana to Ghana–Togo border, the west, Benin to Benin–Togo border, the east and Burkina Faso to Burkina Faso–Togo border, the north. It is one of the le ...
: As of 1 August 2020, Togo reopened its international airport and international passenger flights have resumed. Travelers entering Togo must present a negative COVID-19 test.
*
Tunisia
Tunisia, officially the Republic of Tunisia, is a country in the Maghreb region of North Africa. It is bordered by Algeria to the west and southwest, Libya to the southeast, and the Mediterranean Sea to the north and east. Tunisia also shares m ...
: As of 16 November 2020, all countries are welcome in Tunisia under regular visa laws, all passengers must have a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours before arrival.
*
Uganda
Uganda, officially the Republic of Uganda, is a landlocked country in East Africa. It is bordered to the east by Kenya, to the north by South Sudan, to the west by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, to the south-west by Rwanda, and to the ...
: Uganda reopened for tourism on 1 October 2020.
*
Zambia
Zambia, officially the Republic of Zambia, is a landlocked country at the crossroads of Central Africa, Central, Southern Africa, Southern and East Africa. It is typically referred to being in South-Central Africa or Southern Africa. It is bor ...
: As of 26 June 2020, Zambia has opened its international airports to regular air traffic. Non-residents entering Zambia must show a negative COVID-19 test result from within the past 14 days.
*
Zimbabwe
file:Zimbabwe, relief map.jpg, upright=1.22, Zimbabwe, relief map
Zimbabwe, officially the Republic of Zimbabwe, is a landlocked country in Southeast Africa, between the Zambezi and Limpopo Rivers, bordered by South Africa to the south, Bots ...
: As of 1 October 2020, Zimbabwe is officially open for tourism. All arrivals, regardless if they are nationals returning home or foreign tourists, will need to bring a negative PCR test with them, taken no longer than 48 hours before the time of flight departure.
Americas
*
Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda is a Sovereign state, sovereign archipelagic country composed of Antigua, Barbuda, and List of islands of Antigua and Barbuda, numerous other small islands. Antigua and Barbuda has a total area of 440 km2 (170 sq mi), ...
: Antigua and Barbuda officially reopened to international visitors on 4 June 2020. A negative COVID-19 test is not required in order to enter Antigua and Barbuda, testing will be done upon arrival to all incoming passengers. There is no quarantine required upon arrival.
*
Argentina
Argentina, officially the Argentine Republic, is a country in the southern half of South America. It covers an area of , making it the List of South American countries by area, second-largest country in South America after Brazil, the fourt ...
: As of 1 November 2021, Argentina is officially open for tourism.
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Bahamas
The Bahamas, officially the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, is an archipelagic and island country within the Lucayan Archipelago of the Atlantic Ocean. It contains 97 per cent of the archipelago's land area and 88 per cent of its population. ...
: As of 1 July 2020, the Bahamas are officially open for tourism. All travelers must present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test. The test result can not be older than 7 days prior to the date of arrival.
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Barbados
Barbados, officially the Republic of Barbados, is an island country in the Atlantic Ocean. It is part of the Lesser Antilles of the West Indies and the easternmost island of the Caribbean region. It lies on the boundary of the South American ...
: Barbados does not have any entry restrictions. On arrival in Barbados, travelers are required to present evidence of a negative result of a PCR COVID-19 test. If an arriving passenger, does not have a negative test within 72 hours, they will need to get a test at the airport, and then quarantine for up to two days at their own expense until test results come in. If a passenger tests positive they will be put into isolation.
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Belize
Belize is a country on the north-eastern coast of Central America. It is bordered by Mexico to the north, the Caribbean Sea to the east, and Guatemala to the west and south. It also shares a maritime boundary with Honduras to the southeast. P ...
: As of 1 October 2020, Belize is officially open for tourism. All passengers, of all nationalities, who meet immigration rules are permitted entry to Belize.
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Bermuda
Bermuda is a British Overseas Territories, British Overseas Territory in the Atlantic Ocean, North Atlantic Ocean. The closest land outside the territory is in the American state of North Carolina, about to the west-northwest.
Bermuda is an ...
: As of 1 July 2020, Bermuda has opened its international airport to regular air traffic. All tourists are charged a fee of $75 USD to cover COVID-19 tests on arrival.
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Bolivia
Bolivia, officially the Plurinational State of Bolivia, is a landlocked country located in central South America. The country features diverse geography, including vast Amazonian plains, tropical lowlands, mountains, the Gran Chaco Province, w ...
: As of 12 October 2020, Bolivia has reopened its borders to all countries for tourism. Travelers are required to present a negative PCR test result.
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Brazil
Brazil, officially the Federative Republic of Brazil, is the largest country in South America. It is the world's List of countries and dependencies by area, fifth-largest country by area and the List of countries and dependencies by population ...
: As of 29 July 2020, Brazil is officially open for tourism.
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British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands (BVI), officially the Virgin Islands, are a British Overseas Territories, British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean, to the east of Puerto Rico and the United States Virgin Islands, US Virgin Islands and north-west ...
: British Virgin Islands officially reopened to international tourism in December 2020. All arriving visitors are required to quarantine for four days at their hotel, resort, villa or docked vessel.
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Canada
Canada is a country in North America. Its Provinces and territories of Canada, ten provinces and three territories extend from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean and northward into the Arctic Ocean, making it the world's List of coun ...
: Effective 1 October 2022, Canada reverted to pre-COVID restrictions on entry, no longer requiring vaccination or a pre-departure test or form.
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Chile
Chile, officially the Republic of Chile, is a country in western South America. It is the southernmost country in the world and the closest to Antarctica, stretching along a narrow strip of land between the Andes, Andes Mountains and the Paci ...
: As of 23 November 2020, Chile is officially open for tourism. Incoming passengers are required to show a negative PCR coronavirus test no more than three days old.
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Colombia
Colombia, officially the Republic of Colombia, is a country primarily located in South America with Insular region of Colombia, insular regions in North America. The Colombian mainland is bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the north, Venezuel ...
: As of 19 September 2020, Colombia has opened its international airports to regular air traffic. Travelers are required to present a negative PCR test result issued within 96 hours prior to departure.
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Costa Rica
Costa Rica, officially the Republic of Costa Rica, is a country in Central America. It borders Nicaragua to the north, the Caribbean Sea to the northeast, Panama to the southeast, and the Pacific Ocean to the southwest, as well as Maritime bo ...
: As of 1 November 2020, visitors from all nations are welcome under 'normal/pre-covid' visa requirements and PCR testing is no longer required for tourists entering the country.
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Cuba
Cuba, officially the Republic of Cuba, is an island country, comprising the island of Cuba (largest island), Isla de la Juventud, and List of islands of Cuba, 4,195 islands, islets and cays surrounding the main island. It is located where the ...
: As of 15 November 2020, travelers from all countries are permitted to visit Cuba under regular visa requirements. Tourists arriving into Cuba are tested for COVID-19 at the airport and must wait up to 24 hours in a hotel for a negative result.
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Dominica
Dominica, officially the Commonwealth of Dominica, is an island country in the Caribbean. It is part of the Windward Islands chain in the Lesser Antilles archipelago in the Caribbean Sea. The capital, Roseau, is located on the western side of t ...
: As of 7 August 2020, Dominica is officially open for tourism, but all new arrivals must take a coronavirus test 24–72 hours prior to arrival hours before they travel.
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Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is a country located on the island of Hispaniola in the Greater Antilles of the Caribbean Sea in the Atlantic Ocean, North Atlantic Ocean. It shares a Maritime boundary, maritime border with Puerto Rico to the east and ...
: As of 8 July 2020, Dominican Republic is officially open for tourism.
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Ecuador
Ecuador, officially the Republic of Ecuador, is a country in northwestern South America, bordered by Colombia on the north, Peru on the east and south, and the Pacific Ocean on the west. It also includes the Galápagos Province which contain ...
: As of 1 June 2020, Ecuador has opened its international airport to regular air traffic.
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El Salvador
El Salvador, officially the Republic of El Salvador, is a country in Central America. It is bordered on the northeast by Honduras, on the northwest by Guatemala, and on the south by the Pacific Ocean. El Salvador's capital and largest city is S ...
: As of 19 September 2020, El Salvador's airports resumed commercial flights. Incoming passengers are required to show a negative PCR coronavirus test no more than three days old.
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Grenada
Grenada is an island country of the West Indies in the eastern Caribbean Sea. The southernmost of the Windward Islands, Grenada is directly south of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and about north of Trinidad and Tobago, Trinidad and the So ...
: As of 1 August 2020, Grenada is officially open for tourism.
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Guatemala
Guatemala, officially the Republic of Guatemala, is a country in Central America. It is bordered to the north and west by Mexico, to the northeast by Belize, to the east by Honduras, and to the southeast by El Salvador. It is hydrologically b ...
: As of 18 September 2020, Guatemala reopened its domestic and international airports to regular air traffic, as well as official border crossings. Arriving passengers must provide the results of a negative COVID-19 test no more than three days old, except Guatemalan citizens, foreign residents and diplomats at land border crossings.
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Guyana
Guyana, officially the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, is a country on the northern coast of South America, part of the historic British West Indies. entry "Guyana" Georgetown, Guyana, Georgetown is the capital of Guyana and is also the co ...
: As of 12 October 2020, Guyana is officially open for tourism.
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Haiti
Haiti, officially the Republic of Haiti, is a country on the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean Sea, east of Cuba and Jamaica, and south of the Bahamas. It occupies the western three-eighths of the island, which it shares with the Dominican ...
: On 1 July 2020, Haiti reopened its two international airports in Port-au-Prince and Cape Haitian, as well as four official border crossings.
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Honduras
Honduras, officially the Republic of Honduras, is a country in Central America. It is bordered to the west by Guatemala, to the southwest by El Salvador, to the southeast by Nicaragua, to the south by the Pacific Ocean at the Gulf of Fonseca, ...
: On 17 August 2020, Honduras reopened its domestic and international airports to regular air traffic. Arriving passengers must provide the results of a negative COVID-19 test.
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Jamaica
Jamaica is an island country in the Caribbean Sea and the West Indies. At , it is the third-largest island—after Cuba and Hispaniola—of the Greater Antilles and the Caribbean. Jamaica lies about south of Cuba, west of Hispaniola (the is ...
: As of 15 June 2020, Jamaica is officially open for tourism.
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Martinique
Martinique ( ; or ; Kalinago language, Kalinago: or ) is an island in the Lesser Antilles of the West Indies, in the eastern Caribbean Sea. It was previously known as Iguanacaera which translates to iguana island in Carib language, Kariʼn ...
: Martinique does not have any entry restrictions, but all arriving passengers, must quarantine for 14 days.
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Mexico
Mexico, officially the United Mexican States, is a country in North America. It is the northernmost country in Latin America, and borders the United States to the north, and Guatemala and Belize to the southeast; while having maritime boundar ...
: Mexico does not have any entry restrictions.
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Nicaragua
Nicaragua, officially the Republic of Nicaragua, is the geographically largest Sovereign state, country in Central America, comprising . With a population of 7,142,529 as of 2024, it is the third-most populous country in Central America aft ...
: Nicaragua has not implemented any entry restrictions.
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Panama
Panama, officially the Republic of Panama, is a country in Latin America at the southern end of Central America, bordering South America. It is bordered by Costa Rica to the west, Colombia to the southeast, the Caribbean Sea to the north, and ...
: As of 12 October 2020, Panama is officially open for tourism. Arriving passengers must provide the results of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 48 hours of arrival.
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Paraguay
Paraguay, officially the Republic of Paraguay, is a landlocked country in South America. It is bordered by Argentina to the Argentina–Paraguay border, south and southwest, Brazil to the Brazil–Paraguay border, east and northeast, and Boli ...
: In December 2020, Paraguay re-opened its borders to tourists. Arriving passengers must provide the results of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of arrival.
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Puerto Rico
; abbreviated PR), officially the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, is a Government of Puerto Rico, self-governing Caribbean Geography of Puerto Rico, archipelago and island organized as an Territories of the United States, unincorporated territo ...
: Puerto Rico has not implemented any entry restrictions, but all new arrivals must take a coronavirus test 72 hours before they travel.
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Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia is an island country of the West Indies in the eastern Caribbean. Part of the Windward Islands of the Lesser Antilles, it is located north/northeast of the island of Saint Vincent (Saint Vincent and the Grenadines), Saint Vincent ...
: As of 4 June 2020, Saint Lucia is officially open for tourism. Arriving passengers must provide the results of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 48 hours of arrival.
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Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, sometimes known simply as Saint Vincent or SVG, is an island country in the eastern Caribbean. It is located in the southeast Windward Islands of the Lesser Antilles, which lie in the West Indies, at the south ...
: As of 1 July 2020, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is officially open for tourism. Arriving passengers will be tested upon arrival and must wait 24 hours in hotel for the results.
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Sint Maarten
Sint Maarten () is a Countries of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands located in the Caribbean region of North America. With a population of 58,477 as of June 2023 on an area of , it encompasses ...
: As of 1 August 2020, Sint Maarten is officially open for tourism.
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Turks and Caicos Islands
The Turks and Caicos Islands (abbreviated TCI; and ) are a British Overseas Territory consisting of the larger Caicos Islands and smaller Turks Islands, two groups of tropical islands in the Lucayan Archipelago of the Atlantic Ocean and no ...
: As of 22 July 2020, Turks And Caicos is officially open for tourism.
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United States
The United States of America (USA), also known as the United States (U.S.) or America, is a country primarily located in North America. It is a federal republic of 50 U.S. state, states and a federal capital district, Washington, D.C. The 48 ...
: From the beginning of the pandemic and into 2021, the northern and southern borders were closed to non-essential travel by people who were neither U.S. citizens nor permanent residents. Following the declaration of a
public health emergency
In public relations and communication science, publics are groups of individual people, and the public (a.k.a. the general public) is the totality of such groupings. This is a different concept to the sociological concept of the ''Öffentlichkei ...
on 31 January 2020, people other than U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and their immediate family were prohibited from entering the U.S. within 14 days of being in China.
On 2 February, all inbound passengers who had been to
Hubei
Hubei is a province of China, province in Central China. It has the List of Chinese provincial-level divisions by GDP, seventh-largest economy among Chinese provinces, the second-largest within Central China, and the third-largest among inland ...
in the previous 14 days were placed under quarantine for up to 14 days. American citizens who had traveled to the rest of mainland China were allowed to continue their transit home if they were asymptomatic, but would be monitored by local health departments.
From 2 March, foreign nationals who had traveled to Iran within the past 14 days were denied permission to enter the U.S.
American citizens and permanent residents returning to the United States who had travelled to Iran within the previous 14 days had to enter through an approved airport.
On 13 March, incoming travel from the
Schengen area
The Schengen Area ( , ) encompasses European countries that have officially abolished border controls at their common borders. As an element within the wider area of freedom, security and justice (AFSJ) policy of the European Union (EU), it ...
in Europe was suspended.
A proclamation issued days earlier stated that this restriction applied only to foreign nationals who had been to a country within the Schengen area in the past 14 days. The ban did not apply to, for example, legal permanent residents and most immediate family members of U.S. citizens.
Also, cargo and trading goods were not affected. On 14 March, the Trump administration extended the ban to include the United Kingdom and Ireland for 30 days, although the proclamation more vaguely said they would "remain in effect until terminated by the President".
Effective 29 May, foreigners coming from Brazil were restricted from entering the US. On 6 August, the
U.S. Department of State
The United States Department of State (DOS), or simply the State Department, is an executive department of the U.S. federal government responsible for the country's foreign policy and relations. Equivalent to the ministry of foreign affairs o ...
lifted a Level 4 global health travel advisory issued on 19 March which advised American citizens to avoid all international travel. As of 26 January 2021, all air passengers ages two and older must show proof of a negative COVID-19 test to enter the United States and travel restrictions were reinstated for people who visited the Schengen Area, the Federative Republic of Brazil, the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland and South Africa, 14 days before their attempted entry into the US. A rule change scheduled to take effect in November 2021 would require a narrower testing window for unvaccinated travelers: a test within one day of entry to the US for those who are unvaccinated, compared to three days allowed for fully vaccinated travelers. Unvaccinated travelers will also have to test a second time after they land in the US. On 8 November 2021, after nearly 20 months of travel ban, vaccinated international tourists were allowed to travel to the USA.
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United States Virgin Islands
The United States Virgin Islands, officially the Virgin Islands of the United States, are a group of Caribbean islands and a territory of the United States. The islands are geographically part of the Virgin Islands archipelago and are located ...
: As of 1 June 2020, United States Virgin Islands are officially open for tourism. Tourists must undergo temperature checks and health screenings upon entry.
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Uruguay
Uruguay, officially the Oriental Republic of Uruguay, is a country in South America. It shares borders with Argentina to its west and southwest and Brazil to its north and northeast, while bordering the Río de la Plata to the south and the A ...
: On 1 November 2021, Uruguay reopened its borders to vaccinated foreigners.
Asia
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Afghanistan
Afghanistan, officially the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, is a landlocked country located at the crossroads of Central Asia and South Asia. It is bordered by Pakistan to the Durand Line, east and south, Iran to the Afghanistan–Iran borde ...
: As of 24 June 2020, Afghanistan has resumed international air travel.
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Armenia
Armenia, officially the Republic of Armenia, is a landlocked country in the Armenian Highlands of West Asia. It is a part of the Caucasus region and is bordered by Turkey to the west, Georgia (country), Georgia to the north and Azerbaijan to ...
: As of 12 August 2020, Armenia has reopened its borders to air passenger tourists from all nations.
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Bahrain
Bahrain, officially the Kingdom of Bahrain, is an island country in West Asia. Situated on the Persian Gulf, it comprises a small archipelago of 50 natural islands and an additional 33 artificial islands, centered on Bahrain Island, which mak ...
: Effective from 4 September 2020, Bahrain has reopened its borders to tourists and non-residents from 182 countries. Passengers must undergo a PCR test at their own expense after landing. Those staying in the country for longer than 10 days must take a follow-up test on the 10th day of their visit.
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Georgia
Georgia most commonly refers to:
* Georgia (country), a country in the South Caucasus
* Georgia (U.S. state), a state in the southeastern United States
Georgia may also refer to:
People and fictional characters
* Georgia (name), a list of pe ...
: As of 1 February 2021, Georgia is officially open for tourism. Travelers have 2 choices: They can enter restrictions-free if they are vaccinated, or if not, they can undergo a double testing procedure. Georgia has lifted all restrictions for foreign travellers, who are arriving by air and are able to show proof of being twice vaccinated for COVID-19.
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Iraq
Iraq, officially the Republic of Iraq, is a country in West Asia. It is bordered by Saudi Arabia to Iraq–Saudi Arabia border, the south, Turkey to Iraq–Turkey border, the north, Iran to Iran–Iraq border, the east, the Persian Gulf and ...
: As of 23 July 2020, Iraq has resumed international air travel. All travelers arriving from abroad will be requested to quarantine for 14 days and may be requested to provide proof of reservation in a hotel for the duration of the quarantine period.
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Jordan
Jordan, officially the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, is a country in the Southern Levant region of West Asia. Jordan is bordered by Syria to the north, Iraq to the east, Saudi Arabia to the south, and Israel and the occupied Palestinian ter ...
: As of December 2020, all nations can enter Jordan as long as they fulfill all covid-related entry requirements and visa requirements. All passengers entering Jordan for tourism will need to perform multiple PCR tests: pre-flight PCR test with results issued no more than 72 hours before arrival, PCR Test on arrival, and a PCR test on the 7th day of quarantine.
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Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan, officially the Kyrgyz Republic, is a landlocked country in Central Asia lying in the Tian Shan and Pamir Mountains, Pamir mountain ranges. Bishkek is the Capital city, capital and List of cities in Kyrgyzstan, largest city. Kyrgyz ...
: As of 4 December 2020, visitors from all countries may visit Kyrgyzstan under normal visa regulations. Travelers must present proof of a negative PCR COVID-19 test taken no longer than 72 hours before departure.
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Lebanon
Lebanon, officially the Republic of Lebanon, is a country in the Levant region of West Asia. Situated at the crossroads of the Mediterranean Basin and the Arabian Peninsula, it is bordered by Syria to the north and east, Israel to the south ...
: As of 1 October 2020, Lebanon has resumed international air travel. Travelers arriving from countries that do not provide PCR tests ahead of boarding will be tested upon arrival in Lebanon at the airline's expense.
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Maldives
The Maldives, officially the Republic of Maldives, and historically known as the Maldive Islands, is an Archipelagic state, archipelagic country in South Asia located in the Indian Ocean. The Maldives is southwest of Sri Lanka and India, abou ...
: As of 15 July 2020, the Maldives is allowing visitors to travel to the country under normal 'pre-Covid' regulations. That includes no isolation period for arriving tourists. Effective 10 September 2020, arriving passengers must provide the results of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of arrival.
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Nepal
Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a landlocked country in South Asia. It is mainly situated in the Himalayas, but also includes parts of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. It borders the Tibet Autonomous Region of China Ch ...
: As of December 2020, Nepal is officially open for tourism. Travelers must present proof of a negative PCR COVID-19 test taken no longer than 72 hours before departure. All travelers must quarantine for 14 days upon arrival at a hotel.
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Oman
Oman, officially the Sultanate of Oman, is a country located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula in West Asia and the Middle East. It shares land borders with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. Oman’s coastline ...
: As of 29 December 2020, Oman is officially open for tourism. Arriving passengers must provide the results of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of arrival.
* Pakistan: As of 5 October 2020, Pakistan is officially open for tourism. Travelers are required to present a negative PCR test result issued within 96 hours prior to departure.
* Qatar: As of 12 July 2021, Qatar has reopened to fully vaccinated travellers. Visitors from all countries may enter Qatar under normal visa regulations.
* Saudi Arabia: As of 17 May 2021, visitors from all countries may visit Saudi Arabia under normal visa regulations.
* South Korea: Effective 1 October 2022, all travellers regardless of vaccination or infection status can immediately enter the country upon arrival without any Covid tests or quarantine requirement. South Korea has reopened visa-free tourist entries through electronic travel authorization, including many countries in the Americas, Asia-Pacific and Europe.
* Sri Lanka: As of 21 January 2021, Sri Lanka is officially open for tourism. Everyone coming into the country must show proof of a negative coronavirus test taken within 96 hours of travel and fill out an online health declaration form. Guests will be tested again at their own expense on the fifth and seventh days after arriving and people staying longer than seven days will have to take a third test the following week.
* United Arab Emirates (Abu Dhabi): As of 24 December 2020, Emirate of Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates is officially open for tourism. Arriving passengers must provide the results of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 96 hours of arrival. Any visitors travelling from countries, regions and territories on the 'green' list is exempt from quarantine requirements. For flights from all other destinations, travelers are required to quarantine for up to 10 days.
* United Arab Emirates (Dubai): As of 7 July 2020, Emirate of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates is officially open for tourism. Arriving passengers must provide the results of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 96 hours of arrival or undergo a mandatory PCR test at the Dubai airports.
Europe
* Albania: Albania officially reopened its borders for tourism on 1 July 2020 allowing tourists from all countries and nations to enter without restrictions. All normal 'pre-covid' entry requirements apply.
* Belarus: Belarus has not implemented any entry restrictions.
* Bosnia and Herzegovina: As of 16 July 2020, Bosnia and Herzegovina has reopened its borders for citizens of European Union with a negative test for coronavirus not older than 48 hours. As of 12 September 2020, the country has reopen borders for all foreign tourists who have a negative PCR test for coronavirus.
* Guernsey: Guernsey has not implemented any entry restrictions, but imposed a requirement on all persons arriving in the Bailiwick from anywhere in the world (including Jersey and the UK) to self-isolate for 14 days on arrival. This is a legal requirement, and failure to comply is a criminal offence.
* Jersey: Jersey has not implemented any entry restrictions. From Friday 20 March, all travellers arriving in Jersey must now self-isolate for 14 days. This includes the UK, Guernsey, Europe and the rest of the world.
* Kosovo: As of 28 June 2020, Kosovo is officially open for tourism with no restrictions.
* North Macedonia: North Macedonia reopened its land borders on 26 June and its airports on 1 July for commercial traffic. Those entering the country will not be obliged to observe home quarantine for two weeks.
* Serbia: As of 22 May 2020, Serbia is allowing visitors to travel to the country under normal 'pre-Covid' regulations. That includes no mandatory testing and no isolation period for arriving tourists.
* Turkey: All passengers, of all nationalities, who meet Turkish immigration rules are permitted entry into Turkey from 12 June.
* Ukraine: As of 28 September 2020, Ukraine is officially open for tourism.
*
European Union
The European Union (EU) is a supranational union, supranational political union, political and economic union of Member state of the European Union, member states that are Geography of the European Union, located primarily in Europe. The u ...
/
Schengen Area
The Schengen Area ( , ) encompasses European countries that have officially abolished border controls at their common borders. As an element within the wider area of freedom, security and justice (AFSJ) policy of the European Union (EU), it ...
:
** Republic of Ireland: Ireland is not currently implementing any entry restrictions, but any person entering Ireland from abroad, including Irish citizens and residents of Ireland, must self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival. This includes Great Britain but not Northern Ireland. A green list of 15 countries was published by the Government of Ireland on 21 July 2020 from which people could travel without having to quarantine for 14 days upon arriving in Ireland. People who arrived in Ireland from countries not on the green list would still have to restrict their movements. As of July 2021, Ireland started to implement the EU Digital COVID Certificate, like the rest of Europe, allowing those with proof of being fully vaccinated to not be required to go into quarantine.
See also
* Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on aviation
* Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cinema
* COVID-19 pandemic on cruise ships
* Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on education
* Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on religion
* Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on politics
* Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on sports
* Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on television
References
External links
* For air travel restrictions. Updated frequently.
{{COVID-19 pandemic
International responses to the COVID-19 pandemic
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on aviation
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourism
Human migration