CORONAVIRUS: Travel and Immigration Disruption

Numerous countries have implemented restrictions on entry and exit, visa and work permit issuance, closed ports, tightened quarantine rules and taken other measures in an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19. These restrictions will almost assuredly impact your international business travel and assignment plans.

Government responses, entry regulations, and quarantine rules may change at any time during this dynamic situation so please return to this page for more information. If your destination is not listed in our guide and you have traveled to a country or region affected by coronavirus within the past 14 days you should expect additional questions upon entry, a medical evaluation, and may be denied entry.

22 March 2020 | Updated: Bangladesh, Ireland, Pakistan, Singapore, United Arab Emirates

Albania

Effective immediately, all flights to and from United Kingdom and Greece are suspended.

Effective immediately, all land borders with Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia and Greece are closed to passengers.

Effective 9 March 2020, all flights and maritime transport of people have been suspended to and from all Italian airports.

All citizens with COVID-19 symptoms or who have traveled from Italy or other identified risk countries must undergo self-quarantine at home for 14 days.

All arrivals from identified risk areas are required to submit health and travel information at the border.

 

Algeria

Effective 19 March, all travel via air, sea and land to and from Europe is suspended. All flights will be suspended to

and from Senegal, Mali, Niger, Mauritania, Cote d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso. Effective 17 March, all travel via air, sea and land to and from France is suspended.

Air Algerie has suspended flights to and from Tunis, Cairo, Dubai, Doha and Amman.

 

Angola

Effective 20 March, all international flights to and from Angola are suspended until further notice.

 

Antigua and Barbuda

Temporarily not permitting entry to travelers having visited mainland China in the last 28 days. This does not apply to

Antiqua and Barbuda passport holders. From 31 January 2020 until further notice.

 

Argentina

Effective immediately, the Immigration Office and the Registry Office have decreed that all documents expiring from 17 March onwards are automatically extended for 30 days.

Effective immediately, immigration authorities will not process any applications. Existing interviews will be rescheduled.

Effective 17 March, for two weeks, all government offices and agencies will only process applications with a prior appointment.

Effective 16 March, Brazil and Chile have been added to the list of high-risk countries, alongside China, Iran, Japan, South Korea, United Kingdom, United States, all EU member states and all Schengen states. Anyone (including Argentinean citizens) traveling from these countries will only be permitted to enter Argentina if they commit to a 14- day self-quarantine at a private residence or a hotel. Consequences for non-compliance are fine and/or imprisonment.

Effective 15 March, entry is suspended for all non-residents for an initial 15-day period.

Effective immediately, all flights are suspended for an initial period of 30 days from China, Iran, Japan, South Korea, United Kingdom, United States, all EU member states and all Schengen states.

The immigration office has suspended transitory and temporary visa applications, including work authorisations and electronic travel authorisations, for nationals and residents of China, Iran, Japan, South Korea, United Kingdom, United States, all EU member states and all Schengen states.

 

Armenia

Effective 16 March, Armenia’s borders with Iran and Georgia will be closed.

Foreign nationals who, in the previous 14 days, have visited countries with a high risk of infection (China, Iran, South Korea, Japan, Italy, Spain, France, Germany, Switzerland, Denmark, Austria, Belgium, Sweden, Norway, Netherlands, UK) will be isolated in specially designated places for quarantine or may be subject to mandatory self-isolation.

Armenian citizens will only be able to leave the country by plane and will be subject to mandatory quarantine on their return.

 

Australia

Effective 21 March at 9pm local time, entry is suspended for all nationalities, other than Australian citizens and foreign residents, and their close family members.

Qantas airline will suspend all of its international flights from the end of March until at least 31 May. Effective 15 March, all travelers to Australia will be required to self-isolate for 14 days.

Cruise liners are banned from arriving at Australian ports for 30 days.

Foreign nationals (excluding permanent residents of Australia) who have been in mainland China, South Korea, Iran or Italy will not be allowed to enter Australia for 14 days from the time they have left or transited any of those countries. Citizens and permanent residents of Australia and their immediate family members who enter Australia and who have been in mainland China, Iran, Italy or South Korea will be required to self-isolate for 14 days from the time they left mainland China, Iran, Italy or South Korea.

Temporary visa holders who are ineligible for entry into Australia under these measures will have their visa canceled. Arrangements will be made to reinstate visas as appropriate following the lifting of these enhanced border control measures.

 

Austria

Effective immediately, all visa and residence services at Austrian consulates are suspended until further notice. The immigration authority in Vienna has closed its offices until further notice. Applications can still be submitted via email or post.

Effective 13 March, all flights are canceled to and from France, Spain and Switzerland, and border checks implemented at the borders with Switzerland and Liechtenstein.

The border with Italy is closed.

 

Azerbaijan

Effective 19 March, road, rail and air traffic into Baku, Sumgait and the Absheron region is suspended.

Effective 18 March, Azerbaijan and Russia have mutually, temporarily suspended entry for each other’s citizens (with the exception of truck drivers).

Effective 14 March for ten days, the border with Georgia was closed.

The visa registration service ASAN has temporarily stopped issuance of electronic visas.

Nationals of affected countries, and others who have visited those countries in the previous 14 days, will be required to provide a medical certificate proving they are not infected, when applying for a visa at the consulate abroad.

Citizens of Azerbaijan traveling from mainland China, South Korea, Iran, Japan, Italy, Spain, France and Germany will be subject to quarantine for a period of 14 or, if needed, 21 days.

 

Bahamas

Effective 19 March, for at least 30 days, entry is suspended for foreign nationals who have visited the UK, Ireland or Europe within the previous 20 days.

 

Bahrain

Travelers who have visited Egypt, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Lebanon, Malaysia, Singapore, or Thailand in the previous 14 days who show symptoms of the virus will be tested and put into quarantine until the results are received. Those that test positive will be transferred to a treatment center.

Travelers who have visited China, Iran, Iraq and South Korea in the previous 14 days will face the same screening and must wait at the airport for the result.

 

Bangladesh

Effective 22 March until 31 March, most international passenger flights are suspended, with the exception of routes to UK, China, Hong Kong and Thailand. The affected routes include Malaysia, Oman, Singapore, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, India, and Bahrain.

Effective 16 March, entry is suspended for all foreign nationals arriving from Europe (excluding the UK), India, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Qatar for 16 days. Visa on arrival is suspended for the same period. And train services to and from India are suspended until further notice.

 

Belgium

Announced 17 March, Belgium will enforce the 30-day Schengen border closure for non-EU nationals. All outbound travel is suspended.

Visa applications and issuance are suspended. Visa Application Centres are closing. Some communes are closed for all but urgent services.

Government ministries are working from home, which is expected to lead to delays in application processing.

 

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Entry is suspended for foreign nationals who have been in Wuhan, South Korea, Japan, Italy, Iran, France, Romania, Germany, Austria, Spain, Switzerland and Belgium

 

Brazil

Effective 23 March, temporary entrance is suspended for at least 30 days for foreign national travelers arriving from China, EU, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, UK, Australia, Japan, Malaysia and South Korea. This restriction is not applicable to Brazilian citizens, foreign national residence permit/visa holders, foreign workers of the Brazilian government, foreign workers on international service missions, foreign nationals eligible for family reunion with a Brazilian national and foreign national holders of RNM (Foreign ID card).

Effective 19 March for two weeks, Brazil closed its borders with Argentina, Paraguay, Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, Suriname, Guyana and French Guiana for two weeks, to all except Brazilian nationals and foreign residents. Effective 17 March, Brazil closed its border with Venezuela.

Effective 16 March, the Federal Police has restricted services nationally. Immigration registration and residence permits, CRNM, DRNM and passport delivery requests will only be accepted in urgent cases. Passport issuance requests will only proceed for applicants with proof of travel in the next 30 days. Naturalization requests will not be

processed. Visitors whose status expires will not be penalized.

 

Brunei

Effective 16 March, exit is suspended for all citizens and foreign residents.

Entry restrictions are in place for individuals arriving from Iran, Italy and Hubei, Zhejiang and Jiangsu provinces in China.

 

Bulgaria

Effective midnight on 17 March, all flights arriving from Italy and Spain will be suspended. Bulgarians arriving home from these countries face 14-day quarantine.

 

Cambodia

Effective 20 March, the border with Vietnam is temporarily closed.

Effective 18 March for 30 days, entry is suspended for travelers from US, Germany, France, Spain, Italy and Iran.

 

Canada

On 18 March, the US president announced via Twitter that the US is closing its border with Canada for non-essential travel, by mutual decision. Cross-border trade and regular commuters will not be blocked. Further details, including effective date, are yet to be announced. Effective 18 March, entry is suspended for foreign travelers. Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada (and their immediate family members) are exempt. Also exempt are US citizens, diplomats, transport crewmembers and other necessary essential service workers. Anyone showing symptoms of COVID-19 will not be allowed to board planes flying to Canada. travelers arriving from international

locations must self-isolate for 14 days. Only four Canadian airports – Montreal, Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver will accept international flights from 18 March. Domestic flights and flights from USA, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Saint Pierre and Miquelon will not be impacted.

Canada has temporarily closed all its visa application centres in mainland China. Canadian visa offices in mainland China are currently operating with essential staff only and processing only urgent applications on a case-by-case basis. Permanent resident visa holders of Chinese, Iranian or South Korean nationality, or who are in China, Iran or South Korea, can request an extension of their Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) if their visa will expire within the next 90 days and they are unable to travel to Canada. Canadian citizenship applicants of Chinese, Iranian or South Korean nationality, or who are in China, Iran or South Korea, who are unable to travel to China can reschedule their knowledge tests, retests, interviews, hearings or Oaths of Citizenship for a later date. Applicants for visitor visas, work permits, study permits or permanent residence of Chinese, Iranian or South Korean nationality, or who are in China, Iran or South Korea, who cannot complete the next steps in their application will be given an automatic extension.

 

Canada (continued)

Visitors, international students and foreign workers of Chinese, Iranian or South Korean nationality, or who are in China, Iran or South Korea, whose legal status in Canada will soon end, can apply for an extension, if eligible.

 

Chile

Effective immediately, all Chilean consulates have suspended visa stamping until further notice.

Effective 17 March, the Migration Department has suspended all in -person services. Online payments, visa stamps and applications are available.

Effective 16 March, all travelers arriving from countries considered at risk of the virus are required to self-quarantine for 14 days. This now includes Spain, Italy, France, Germany, China, Iran, South Korea and Japan.

 

China

Effective immediately, all travelers arriving in Guangdong from abroad, regardless of nationality (including Chinese citizens), are subject to a 14-day quarantine at home or at a designated place.

All travelers arriving in Guangdong from Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan or another mainland Chinese city, who have lived or traveled abroad in the previous 14 days, are also subject to a 14-day quarantine at home or at a designated place. Effective 20 March, on arrival in Shanghai, people who have visited the following 24 countries in the previous 14 days must undergo 14 days of quarantine at home or at designated places: South Korea, Japan, Iran, Malaysia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Italy, France, Spain, Germany, UK, Sweden, Netherlands, Denmark, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Norway, Greece, Czech, Finland, US, Canada and Australia. Arrivals will be taken to temporary checking and observation sites upon arrival by district staff. Previously, private vehicle pick-up at the two airports was allowed. After arriving at temporary observation sites in each district, people will then undergo nucleic acid tests for the coronavirus, which is a new procedure. Those with negative test results will be escorted to their residences or designated sites by district officials to undergo 14-day quarantine, while people testing positive will be transferred to designated medical treatment institutions. People arriving from key countries who are quarantined at designated sites need to cover accommodation and meal fees themselves. The same expanded measures apply to those who arrive in Shanghai via other ports in China from key countries.

In Shanghai, high-level foreign talents over the age of 65 are exempted from submitting the insurance policy, commitment on insurance and commitment letter from tri-parties while applying for the work permit in Shanghai. The processing times for work permit cancelation in Shanghai will be reduced from ten working days to three working days.

In Shanghai, E-signature on employment termination letter or emails as well as WeChat messages can be accepted as evidence in support of the termination of employment relationship between the Chinese employer and foreign employee during the epidemic control period.

 

China (continued)

While renewing the work permit in Shanghai, the authority accepts the tax payment evidence uploaded online by the Chinese employer. The foreign employee (who made the commitment on salary/ IIT before) does not need to go to the tax authority to get a printout of their tax payment record, which was previously required by the SAFEA authority.

In Shanghai, the requirements on the salary/IIT commitment will be relaxed to a reasonable extent while foreign employees (who made the above commitment earlier) renew their work permit during the epidemic control period (provisionally from February to April).

Foreign employees in Shanghai are allowed to submit their online application for work permit renewal before its expiry date during this epidemic control period. Previously, such a renewal application shall be submitted online 30 days before the expiry date.

Foreign nationals in Shanghai whose visas or residence permits have expired and who are not able to exit China during the epidemic control period, can have their visas or residence permits extended automatically for another two months (by NIA). They are allowed to apply for a work permit during the above extended period.

Effective immediately, all international arrivals in Beijing will be quarantined for 14 days at designated facilities. Expenses incurred will be paid by the travelers.

 

China (continued)

In Beijing, the immigration authorities are asking all foreign nationals and Chinese citizens to hold off submitting their visa/stay/residence permit applications in person if it is not urgent. Those who require urgent assistance with applications are encouraged to make appointment reservations in advance. As mentioned above, Beijing has adopted an online submission and commitment letter process for work permit renewals and cancelations.

In Shenzhen, the immigration authorities have opened green channels for expedited applications for emergencies and urgent requests. The authorities have also implemented other convenient measures to facilitate visa applications for those remaining in Shenzhen during this outbreak period.

All Chinese visa applications in Singapore must be supported by supplementary information regarding the applicant’s travel history and a health declaration.

The China Visa Service Centre in Hong Kong is still accepting visa applications but processing is delayed. Additional health declaration and travel history are required. Applications for applicants arriving from other countries/regions will be accepted after completion of a 14-day quarantine period.

At present, except for the closure of the exit channel at Wuhan ports, all port visa agencies are operating as usual. Visa-free transit for foreigners is still effective, and all land, sea and air ports of China are functioning.

Foreign and mainland Chinese nationals can enter or exit as usual with their valid international travel documents,

although many other countries have adopted entry restrictions for travelers from mainland China (see below).

 

China (continued)

Foreign nationals going to China to work are highly encouraged to enter with a Z (work) visa after having obtained the notification letter of work permit, rather than trying to obtain the notification letter of work permit while in China on a business (M) or tourist (L) visa. Those who fail to enter China within the validity of their Z visa due to COVID-19 are allowed to enter China with another type of visa. The Chinese employer should provide an explanation statement in support of the use of an alternative visa.

Chinese immigration authorities will exempt foreign nationals whose temporary visas or residence permits expire during this period of disruption from penalties, or impose lighter penalties, depending on the circumstances. Newland Chase’s team in China is available to provide guidance and assistance with renewals and de-registration.

Holders of valid endorsements to Hong Kong, Macao or Taiwan who are affected by the epidemic and fail to enter the above places within the validity period can re-apply for certificates of the same type and validity period for free when the outbreak is over.

Labor authorities have suspended the submission of physical documents for work permit applications (including initial, renewal, transfer, and cancelation). Instead, all applications will be processed online only during this period, with a commitment letter provided by the Chinese employer. The commitment letter should affirm the authenticity and validity of their online submission and original documents should be kept for further check. Medical authorities have the discretionary power to permit or refuse foreign nationals to undergo a medical examination based on their entry, residence, travel and other documents.

 

Colombia

Effective 23 March at midnight local time, for at least 30 days, entry is suspended for all travelers from abroad, including Colombian citizens and permanent residents.

Effective 16 March, entry is suspended for all foreign national travelers. All Colombian citizens and permanent residents are subject to 14 days of self-quarantine.

Effective 14 March, the border with Venezuela is closed.

Entry is suspended for foreign nationals who have visited countries in Europe or Asia in the previous 14 days. Colombian nationals and residents who have visited these countries in the previous 14 days can enter but must undergo self-isolation for 14 days.

All arrivals of any nationality, including Colombian nationals, must provide health and travel information.

 

Cook Islands

Travelers who have been in China in the past 14 days are not allowed to enter Cook Isl.

 

Costa Rica

Effective 11:59 pm on 18 March until 11:59 pm on 12 April, entry is suspended for all foreign nationals other than residents of Costa Rica. Costa Rican citizens and residents must undergo self-isolation for 14 days upon entry.

Effective 17 March, the Costa Rican Immigration Office is closed until 17 May. New applications will not be accepted. Tourist visas that expire before 17 May will be extended to 17 May. Documents such as criminal record and birth certificates that expire before 17 May will be valid until 17 July.

 

Croatia

All foreign nationals traveling from the UK, France, Germany, Switzerland, Sweden, Italy, Spain, Austria, Netherlands, part of Slovenia, China, Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Bahrain, and Iran will be required to undergo a mandatory 14-day self-isolation or quarantine upon arrival in Croatia. Croatian nationals traveling from these countries are required to undergo a 14-day self-isolation or self-quarantine at home.

 

Cyprus

Effective 21 March until 4 April, flights are suspended between Larnaca and Paphos international airports and Bahrain, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Egypt, Estonia, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Jordan, Latvia, Lebanon, Lithuania, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, UK, and Greece.

Effective 15 March, entry is suspended for all travelers except citizens of Cyprus and foreign residents. Individuals who are permitted to enter will have to present a medical certificate from a doctor in their country of origin proving they are free from coronavirus, and undergo 14-day government quarantine.

 

Czech Republic

Effective 16 March, entry is suspended (during the 30-day State of Emergency declared on 12 March) for all foreign nationals other than those with residency or short-term permits of over 90 days.

All travelers, including Czech citizens and foreign residents, returning from high-risk countries (including Italy, China, South Korea, Iran, Spain, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Sweden, Netherlands, Belgium, UK, Norway, Denmark, and France, must undergo a 14-day quarantine. travelers returning from other countries will be required to undergo a 14- day quarantine if they show symptoms.

All Czech citizens are also banned from exiting Czech Republic for at least 30 days, except for some workers in the transport industry, and for citizens who commute abroad for work if the location is within 100 km (62 miles) of the border. All foreign nationals, including those with a Czech residence permit, will be allowed to exit the country but will be denied re-entry during the SoE period.

All international passenger transport has been suspended.

Effective 14 March, Czech consulates will no longer accept applications for short-term or long-term visas or residence permits. All pending application processing is also suspended.

Effective 12 March, entry is suspended for citizens of China, South Korea, Japan, Iran, USA, Italy, Spain, Greece, Austria, Germany, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Denmark, Norway or Sweden. Cross- border commuters who work within 50 km from the national border are exempt.

 

Czech Republic (continued)

Czech citizens and foreign nationals with temporary, long term or permanent residency in the Czech Republic are not allowed to travel to the above mentioned countries.

Foreign national residents (including EU citizens) who have returned from Italy since 7 March are ordered to report this to their general practitioner (doctor) immediately after their return to the Czech Republic, by phone or otherwise without personal contact.

Visa issuance is suspended for Chinese passport holders from 30 January.

 

Denmark

Effective immediately, entry is suspended for foreign nationals on business, tourism or regular family visits.

Entry is allowed for Danish passport holders; EU passport holders with a Danish health card (yellow card); non-EU citizens with a valid Danish Residence Card or work permit; and passengers in transit.

Effective immediately and for two weeks, all public offices are closed. The Danish immigration authorities are sending cancelation notices for all appointments scheduled between 12 and 27 March 2020. In-country biometrics recording not will not be possible, but work permit applications will still be processed.

 

East Timor

All travelers who having recently visited China will have their temperatures checked and may be subject to additional

medical screening. Suspected cases will be quarantined. Refused entry to foreigners who have visited Hubei province in the past four weeks since 5 February. Foreigners who have visited other place of China in the past four weeks must present a medical certificate proving they are free of coronavirus for entry.

 

Ecuador

Effective 23:59 (local time) on 15 March, all international arrivals to Ecuador by air are suspended, and all foreign

nationals are temporarily banned from entering the country by any port or border crossing.

Effective 23:59 (local time) on 16 March, all Ecuadorean nationals are banned from entering the country. Effective 15 March, anyone arriving from China, South Korea, Iran, France, Italy, Spain, Germany, US, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, and Netherlands must undergo a 14-day self-isolation.

 

Egypt

All flights are suspended from 19 to 31 March.

 

El Salvador

Effective immediately, all Salvadoran citizens and resident foreign nationals who enter the country, by any means, are

subject to a 30-day government quarantine.

Entry is suspended for all non-resident foreign nationals.

 

Equatorial Guinea

Any travelers arriving from a Chinese airport will be denied entry, and must return on the same flight.

 

Estonia

Effective 17 March, entry is suspended for all foreign nationals. Those transiting Estonia and not showing symptoms are exempted. Estonian citizens and residents and their close family members can enter but will face a 14-day isolation.

Effective 12 March, travelers from Italy, China, Iran, South Korea, Japan, Singapore and parts of France, Germany, Austria and Spain will be subject to a 14-day quarantine upon arrival in Estonia.

 

European Union/Schengen

On 17 March, the Schengen Area member states agreed to close the external borders of the Schengen Area to non-

essential travel for all non-EU nationals, for an initial 30-day period.

The non-Schengen EU member states (Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Ireland, Romania) as well as the UK will be invited to also implement the restriction, although the EU has no power to enforce this. EU and UK citizens would be exempt, as would long-term EU residents. Family members of EU citizens, diplomats, cross-border workers and essential

workers such as doctors and nurses.

Third-country nationals who are stranded in the EU and, as a result, overstay their short-stay or long-stay visas, their residence permits, or their authorized visa-free maximum periods of stay, can extend their status.

The EU hopes that by adopting this measure, the EU member states will be able to re-open any “internal” borders with other EU members states which they have temporarily closed.

As of 18 March, most Schengen member states have already closed their borders.

 

Federation of the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan)

Entry not permitted to individuals who have been to China in the last 14 days.

 

Fiji

Temporarily does not permit entry nor transit to any travelers who have been to mainland China in the last 14 days,

with the exception of Fiji passport holders until further notice.

 

France

Effective 17 March, labor offices are closed to the public.

Effective 17 March until further notice, the issuance of all visas is suspended, including applications for which an appointment has already been made.

Effective 17 March, in line with the EU’s proposed closure of the Schengen border, the French government has confirmed that entry is suspended for all foreign nationals in the Schengen Area. French, EU and UK citizens and resident permit holdersand their families, some cross-border workers, and UK nationalsand permanent residents of France, are exempt. Exit is not suspended for anyone.

 

Georgia

Effective 18 March, until 1 April, Georgia will close its borders to all foreign nationals. Georgian nationals will be able to return from abroad on Georgian Airways or Turkish Airlines. Also exempt are representatives of diplomatic and international organizations, and families where one spouse or minor child is a Georgian citizen.

Citizens who have visited China, Iran, South Korea, Italy, Germany, France, Spain, Austria, Switzerland, Norway, and

Denmark over the past two weeks will be quarantined or self-isolated after arriving into Georgia.

 

Germany

Effective 17 March, entry is suspended for non-EU and non-Schengen citizens by plane or ship. German citizens

may continue to enter Germany. Citizens and foreign residents of EU member states, UK, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland and their family members can transit through Germany to reach their home countries.

Effective 16 March, entry is suspended for travelers arriving from France, Austria, Luxembourg and Switzerland, without urgent travel reason, (at the discretion of the border authorities). Exemptions apply for German citizens, and foreign national holders of German residence permits.

Exemptions also exist, regardless of nationality, for work-related reasons or to carry out a professional activity or contractual services (including commuters, seasonal workers, EU parliamentarians, accredited diplomats). This must be proven by carrying suitable documents (e.g. employment contract, order documents, cross-border commuter card).

Entry by third-country nationals with Schengen visas for tourist purposes is no longer permitted.

Services at the alien offices in Berlin are unavailable without an appointment. Immigration offices in other cities are closed, or offering only limited or emergency services.

Foreign residents living in Berlin will not be penalized for the expiry of temporary residence documents while alien office services are restricted. However, exiting and re-entering Germany is only possible with a valid residence document.

 

Ghana

Effective 17 March, entry is suspended for travelers from countries that have recorded 200 or more cases of COVID- 19 (other than citizens or foreign residents of Ghana). Anyone entering Ghana will be subject to a mandatory 14-day quarantine.

 

Greece

Effective 16 March, all travelers of any nationality will be subject to a 14-day quarantine upon arrival. Effective 15 March, Greece has closed its air, land and sea borders with Albania and North Macedonia. Also effective 15 March, flights are suspended to and from Spain.

Effective 14 March, flights are suspended to and from Italy until 29 March. Cruise and passenger ships are banned from arriving in Greece.

 

Grenada

Entry not permitted to applicants who have been to China in the last 14 days.

 

Guatemala

Effective 17 March, entry is suspended for all nationalities for 15 days. Guatemalan citizens, foreign residents and diplomatic staff can enter by land, but will be subject to quarantine.

Entry is suspended for nationals of and those traveling from European countries, China, South Korea, North Korea and Iran.

Guatemalan citizens and permanent or temporary residents traveling from these countries can enter Guatemala but will be screened at the airport and, if they have COVID-19 symptoms, will be placed in quarantine.

 

Guyana

Effective immediately, all international flights to and from Guyana are suspended.

 

Honduras

Effective 16 March for seven days, entry is suspended for all nationalities via air, land and sea. Honduran citizens, foreign residents and diplomats can enter but must undergo self-quarantine on arrival.

Any foreign or Honduran national who enters the country from countries with a high incidence of the virus such as China, Iran, Italy, Spain, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, among others, must provide their travel history for the last 30 days, submit to testing, quarantine or self-isolation as required.

Nationals of countries with a high incidence of the virus may enter Honduras but must submit to self-isolation for 14

days.

 

Hong Kong, China

Effective 19 March, all travelers arriving in Hong Kong from any foreign country, other than Macao or Taiwan, will be put under 14-day home quarantine or medical surveillance.

Effective 19 March, all arrivals from the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland and Egypt will undergo a 14-day quarantine.

Effective 17 March, all arrivals, regardless of nationality, from the Schengen states and South Korea will undergo a 14- day home quarantine. Those arriving from the Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy and Veneto regions of Italy, or from 

Daegu or Gyeongsangbuk-do in South Korea, face mandatory quarantine in government camps.

Effective 14 March, all arrivals, regardless of nationality, who have visited the following regions in the previous 14 days, will be quarantined at home: the Bourgogne-Franche-Comte and Grand Est regions in France; North Rhine- Westphalia in Germany; La Rioja, Madrid and Basque Country in Spain; and the Hokkaido region of Japan.

Effective 1 March, all travelers who have been in Iran, or in Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy or Veneto in Italy, will be sent to quarantine centres.

Effective 25 February, all travelers arriving in Hong Kong who have been in Daegu or Gyeongsangbuk-do in South Korea in the past 14 days will be sent to quarantine centres.

Effective 25 February, foreign nationals who have visited South Korea in the previous 14 days are not allowed to enter Hong Kong. Effective 8 February, all arrivals entering from mainland China, and anyone who has visited mainland China in the previous 14 days, including Hong Kong residents, are subject to a mandatory 14-day home quarantine.

Those who show symptoms will be referred to the Department of Health for further handling.

Effective 4 February, all border crossings between mainland China and Hong Kong are closed apart from Hong Kong International Airport, Shenzhen Bay and Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge.

Effective 27 January, until further notice, foreign nationals who have visited Hubei province in China in the previous 14 days are not allowed to enter Hong Kong.

 

Hungary

On 16 March, Hungary’s Prime Minister announced that the border will be closed to all foreign non-residents. The effective date has not yet been announced.

Iceland

As of 19 March, Iceland has so far not imposed any travel or immigration restrictions.

 

India

Effective immediately, foreign nationals who are unable to leave India due to the imposition of travel restrictions during the validity of their visas can apply for visa extension online via the e-FRRO portal. Visas which have expired or are set to expire between 13 March (at midnight) and 15 April (at midnight)will be extended to 15 April (midnight) for free. Foreign nationals in this situation will be able to exit India without levying a penalty for overstay.Effective immediately, foreign nationals are not permitted to visit the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) without a prior appointment until further notice.

Effective 22 March until 29 March, no international commercial flights are permitted to take off from any foreign airport to India.

Effective 23 March at 01:31 hours IST no incoming scheduled international commercial passenger aircraft are allowed to land and disembark passengers in India.

Effective 18 March at 12:00 GMT (at the port of first departure), all passengers arriving from UAE, Qatar, Oman and Kuwait will be placed under mandatory quarantine for at least 14 days.

Effective immediately until 31 March, entry is suspended for arrivals from Afghanistan, Philippines and Malaysia. Effective 13 March to 15 April, India has suspended all visas other than diplomatic, official, UN/international organization, employment and project visas.

Visas of all foreign nationals who are already in India remain valid. They may contact the nearest FRRO/FRO through e- FRRO module for extension/conversion etc. of their visa or grant of any consular service

All employment visa holders and their dependents who are currently in India on their employment and dependent visas respectively are also in valid status. However, if a dependent of an employment visa holder is not presently in India, their visa in this instance will stand suspended until 15 April.

Visa-free travel for Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) is also suspended until 15 April.

Any foreign national (including OCI cardholder) who intends to travel to India for compelling reasons may contact the nearest Indian Mission for a new visa.

 

India (continued)

Effective 10 March, passengers wishing to enter India from, or having visited, Italy or South Korea will need a certificate proving they have tested negative for COVID-19 from the health authorities of these countries.

Effective 13 March, all incoming travelers including Indian nationals who are arriving from or who have visited China, Italy, Iran, South Korea, France, Spain or Germany after 15 February will be quarantined for a minimum period of 14 days upon their arrival to India.Incoming travelers, including Indian nationals, are advised to avoid non-essential travel and may be quarantined for a minimum period of 14 days upon their arrival to India.

Indian nationals are further strongly advised to refrain from traveling to China, Italy, Iran, Republic of Korea, Japan, France, Spain and Germany.

E-visas and regular visas issued to nationals of France, Germany and Spain on or before 11 March 2020 who have not yet entered India, are suspended.

Entry is suspended for travelers of any nationality who have visited or transited France, Spain or Germany.

E-Visas and regular visas issued to nationals of Italy, Iran, South Korea and Japan on or before 3 March 2020, who have not yet entered India, are suspended. Holders of these visas may not enter India by any route.

E-Visas and regular visas issued on or before 5 February 2020 to mainland Chinese nationals are suspended. Holders of these visas may not enter India by any route.

E-Visas and regular visas issued to all foreign nationals who have traveled to mainland China, Iran, Italy, South Korea or Japan on or after 1 February 2020 are suspended. Those requiring entry to India in urgent circumstances may apply for a fresh visa to the nearest Indian embassy or consulate.

All passengers arriving into India via any port are required to complete and submit a self-declaration form and

undergo universal health screening at the designated health counters at all points of entry.

 

Indonesia

Effective 16 March, entry is suspended for all foreign nationals arriving from all countries with COVID-19 outbreaks. Indonesian citizens and their foreign spouse and children, and holders of Indonesian permanent residence and diplomatic visas are exempt.

Effective 8 March, the entry into or transit in Indonesia is suspended for all foreign nationals who have visited the following regions in the previous 14 days: Italy (Lombardy, Veneto, Emilia-Romagna, Marche or Piedmont); Iran (Qom, Tehran and Gilan province); South Korea (Daegu and Gyeongsangbuk-do province).

Indonesian nationals who have visited the affected regions in the previous 14 days can enter Indonesia but must undergo a health examination on arrival.

All foreign nationals who have been in other regions of Italy, Iran or South Korea, but not in the affected regions, require a valid health certificate issued by the health authorities in the respective country, and must complete a health alert card on arrival.

Effective 5 February, Indonesia has temporarily banned entry and the issuance of any visas on arrival, visa exemptions, limited stay visas or visit visas for anyone of any nationality who has been in China in the 14 days preceding the date of entry into Indonesia.

Single or multiple-entry visit visas and Limited Stay Visas (VTT) may be granted to foreign nationals who submit their application in China if they have been in an unaffected region of China for 14 days prior to entry into Indonesia; they submit a health report in English confirming they are not infected by COVID-19; and they submit a statement of willingness to be quarantined for 14 days on arrival or transit 14 days to a COVID-19-free country before entering Indonesia.

Single or multiple-entry visit visas and Limited Stay Visas (VTT) may be granted to Chinese nationals who submit their application in a COVID-19-free country if they submit a health report in English confirming they are not infected by COVID-19; and they submit a statement of willingness to be quarantined for 14 days on arrival or transit 14 days to a COVID-19-free country before entering Indonesia.

 

Indonesia (continued)

Chinese citizens and their family and foreign nationals who have a residence permit in China can apply for an emergency stay permit.

Chinese citizens holding a Permanent Stay Permit (ITAP) whose re-entry visa has expired can re-enter Indonesia on urgency grounds by submitting a statement of willingness.

The Limited Stay Permit (ITAS) and Permanent Stay Permit of foreign nationals (including Chinese citizens) who are currently in China, can be renewed without their attendance being required at the local immigration office (usually attendance is required for a biometric session). Once the foreign national arrives in Indonesia, they are required to report to the local immigration office.

The Ministry of Manpower has unofficially confirmed that they will not accept any new work permit applications from Chinese citizens. Work permit renewals are not affected.

All flights to and from China have also been suspended.

 

Iran

Temporarily suspended direct flights between China and Iran with the exception of transfers from a third country.

 

Iraq

All flights entering Iraq are suspended from 17 March until at least 23 March. Movement between governorates will

be stopped.

Effective immediately, entry is suspended for travelers of any nationality, except Iraqi citizens, from China, Iran, Thailand, South Korea, Japan, Italy, France, Spain, Singapore, Kuwait and Bahrain.

 

Ireland

Effective at close of business on 20 March, the immigration service has temporarily stopped accepting visa applications. Online applications are available as usual, but applications will not be processed, apart from emergency visas for essential workers, and visas for immediate family members of Irish citizens, legal residents and EU citizens. Any application made online will remain valid until restrictions are lifted.

Effective 20 March, current valid permissions to reside in Ireland which are due to expire between 20 March 2020 and 20 May 2020 are automatically renewed for two months. The renewal of permission is on the same basis as the existing permission and the same conditions attach.

Registration of immigration permissions at Burgh Quay will proceed as normal using a streamlined process designed to minimize the amount of time applicants need to spend in the office. In that regard, applicants must not bring family members or friends with them for registration, unless required to do so as part of the verification process, as this increases overall risks.

The Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation has begun the process of expediting all applications for employment permits for medical staff in their processing queue. It is expected that this process will take approximately a week to complete and, as a result, there will be some impacts on the timelines for the processing of all other employment permit applications. The Department will notify Trusted Partners when this process has been completed.

 

Israel

Effective 18 March, entry is suspended for all foreign nationals other than citizens or residents of Israel and those who have received extraordinary permission from the Population and Immigration Authority.

Due to the home quarantine requirements for foreign nationals arriving in Israel, the Israeli Ministry of Interior will allow submission of Extraordinary Applications for SEA (45 days) and STEP and HIT 90 (90 days) extensions. Employers should also track expiry dates for standard one-year B-1 work visas, and submit extension applications as soon as possible.

Effective 9 March for Israeli nationals and 12 March for non-Israeli nationals, all arrivals to Israel are required to spend 14 days in home isolation. Non-Israeli nationals will only be permitted to enter if they obtain pre-approval at the Israeli consulate abroad, of the location of the residence where they will be isolated. Hotel rooms cannot be used for home isolation.

Israel has banned visa and work permit issuance and entry of non-Israeli nationals who have visited China, Thailand, Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, South Korea, Italy, Egypt or Japan, and of nationals of those countries.

The Israeli consulates in France and Greece are closed.

 

Italy

Effective 17 March until 25 March, all Italian citizens returning from abroad will be subject to mandatory 14-day self-

isolation. Those who enter Italy for valid working reasons and leave the country within 72 hours are exempt from the policy.

All arrivals from abroad are required to declare their purpose of travel.

Effective 3 March, the deadlines for residence permit application and issuance are suspended for 30 days. Normally, initial residence permit applications must be submitted within 8 working days of arrival in Italy and renewal applications within 60 days of permit expiry.

Public offices throughout Italy have closed to the public until further notice. Closures of public offices in other Italian regions are also expected. Employers and assignees in Italy should be prepared for delays in the processing of immigration and work authorization applications.

 

Jamaica

Passengers who have been in the People's Republic of China will be subject to immediate quarantine for a minimum of 14 days.

Passengers returning from People's Republic of China who have been granted landing privileges and who show any symptom of coronavirus will be put in immediate isolation.

 

Japan

Effective 21 March, travelers from the following countries face new travel restrictions: The Schengen states, Andorra, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Egypt, Iran, Ireland, Monaco, Romania, San Marino, the UK and Vatican.

The validity of single or multiple-entry visa issued by March 20 by Japanese Embassies or Consulates General in the above countries cannot be activated until the end of April.

Visa exemption measures will be gradually suspended for the above countries until the end of April.

Entry is suspended for holders of single or multiple-entry visas issued by 20 March by Japanese consulates in the above countries, and nationals of the above countries for whom visa exemption measures have been suspended. Those traveling from the above countries, including foreign residents of Japan, will be asked to self-quarantine on arrival for 14 days. Effective 19 March, entry is suspended for holders of passports issued in Hubei and Zhejiang provinces in mainland China (including those with a valid Japanese immigration status and seeking re-entry to Japan), and any foreign nationals who have, in the previous 14 days, visited Hubei or Zhejiang in mainland China; Daegu Metropolitan City, Gyeongsan City, North Gyeongsang Province, Andong City, Yeongcheon City, Cheongdo County, Chilgok County, Uiseong County, Seongju County or Gunwi County in South Korea; Qom, Tehran, Gilan, Alborz, Isfahan, Gazvin, Golestan, Semnan, Mazandaran, Markazi or Lorestan provinces in Iran; Veneto, Emilia-Romagna, Piedmont, Marche, Lombardy, Valle d'Aosta, Trentino Alto Adige, Friuli-Venezia Giulia or Liguria in Italy; all regions of San Marino, Canton Ticino or Basel-Stadt in Switzerland, Communidad de Navarra, Basque, Madrid or La Rioja in Spain and all regions of Iceland. Entry is also suspended for travelers confirmed to be infected with COVID-19.

Effective 9 March, all visas issued at the Japanese consulates in China and South Korea are invalid for entry, and these consulates will stop accepting visa applications. Also effective 9 March, the visa waiver for nationals of Hong Kong, Macau and South Korea is suspended. Also effective 9 March, all arrivals in Japan (including Japanese nationals and residence card holders) from mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau or South Korea will be required to undergo a 14-day quarantine. Planes from China and South Korea are only allowed to land at Narita and Kansai international airports.

 

Jordan

No entry or transit for non-Jordan nationals or permanent residents who have visited China in the past 14 days.

Jordan nationals and permanent residents may be quarantined for 14 days.

 

Kazakhstan

Effective 15 March, entry is suspended for all foreign nationals, other than diplomats and permanent residents; and Kazakh nationals are prohibited from exiting the country (other than for medical treatment).

C3 work visas can be renewed (not earlier than 30 business days and not later than five business days prior to expiry) once the work permit is extended (not later than 30 calendar days prior to expiry).

B2 business visas can be extended by up to 30 days (at least five days prior to expiry).

Visa-free nationals can apply for a business visa for up to 30 days to stay beyond their 30-day visa waiver.

Foreign nationals who have visited China, Iran, South Korea, Italy, France, Spain or Germany in the previous 30 days are prohibited from entry to Kazakhstan. *Kazakhstan citizens who have visited these countries will be placed under a 14-day quarantine or home quarantine and subsequently ten days of regular health monitoring by phone.

All nationals arriving from Switzerland, UK or Netherlands are subject to self-isolation, regular medical supervision at home for 14 days and subsequently ten days of regular health monitoring by phone.

All nationals arriving from Belgium, Sweden, Norway, India, Iraq, Philippines and USA will be under medical supervision by phone for 24 days.

Kazakhstan has also closed all transport links with China and suspended all visas on arrival from China.

 

Kenya

Effective immediately, entry is suspended for all individuals entering Kenya from any country with reported COVID-19 cases.

Kenyan citizens and foreign national residence permit holders are permitted to enter but will be required to undergo quarantine for 14 days.

All individuals that have entered the country since the end of February must self-quarantine. Effective 16 March, all in-country immigration services have been suspended.

 

Kiribati

Individuals who have been in a country with confirmed cases of coronavirus are not allowed to enter Kiribati. They must have stayed in a country with no confirmed cases of coronavirus for a period of minimum 14 days before entering Kiribati.

 

Korea South

Effective 22 March at 00:00 KST, all arrivals from Europe are subject to mandatory COVID-19 tests, at the

government’s expense. The government will provide secure accommodation for those tested while they await the results (approximately one day).

Further measures will be applied depending on the results. If positive, the person will be subject to quarantine at a designated government hospital until recovered – during this period, the government will provide financial support for employers in South Korea who give paid leave for this recovery period.

If negative, ARC holders and long-term visa holders are required to self-isolate at home or a government isolation facility for two weeks. Short-term visa holders and visitors under visa waiver are not required to self-isolate but must answer daily phone checks by the health authority.

The government will impose heavy penalties for those who do not follow quarantine procedures and health guidelines. The government is considering expanding such measures to visitors from the United States and other Asian countries depending on COVID-19 outbreak situations in those countries.

Effective 19 March, all arrivals of any nationality, including South Korean citizens, arriving from any country (any non- European country from 22 March) are subject to a special entry procedure: check their body temperature and complete a special inspection report form at the entry gate, submit their residence details, install a self-diagnosis app on their phone and report any suspicious symptoms during a 14-day period.

An entry ban only applies to those who have visited Hubei province in the previous two weeks or those who use passports issued from Hubei province.

Effective immediately, holders of short-term visas (B-1, B-2, C-1, C-3, C-4) who cannot exit South Korea before their visa expires, due to canceled flights, must apply for a maximum 30-day extension at the immigration office.

Effective 9 March, the visa waiver for Japanese nationals and existing visas already issued to Japanese nationals are suspended.

 

Korea South (continued)

All visitors from Japan will need to undergo a separate quarantine process at all air and sea ports.

South Korea will not impose any penalty fee on foreign national visitors and residents who are COVID-19 patients for exceeding the period of stay until they are recovered and officially confirmed by the medical institutions.

For Alien Registration Card (ARC) holders whose current visa and ARC expiry date is between 22 February 2020 and 29 April 2020 (both dates inclusive), their visa and ARC expiry date has been automatically extended to 30 April 2020.

This policy is applied to all visa holders except E-9 and E-10 visa holders. ARC holders who fall under this automatic extension policy do not need to visit their district immigration offices to apply for ARC extension.

Effective 4 February, all foreign nationals who have visited or transited Hubei, and Chinese nationals witha Hubei- issued passport, are not allowed entry.

All issued and effective visas issued at the Korean consulate in Wuhan are temporarily suspended.

All Chinese citizens and foreigner nationals arriving from China are temporarily prohibited from entering Korea through Jeju Island via the visa waiver program.

The government has announced that all foreign nationals arriving from China must submit their mobile phone number, which will be checked before they are allowed to enter South Korea. One phone number per family with children will be checked, and all phone numbers for a group of friends. Airlines will be financially responsible for returning travelers who fail to submit working phone numbers. Phone number checking is expected to cause delays on arrival in South Korea.

 

Korea North

Entry not permitted to Chinese passport holders. All other travelers should be quarantined for 30 days after entry.

 

Kosovo

Nationals of China must present a medical certificate proving they are free of coronavirus for entry.

 

Kuwait

Effective 17 March, all arrivals not subject to government quarantine must not go to work and stay in touch with medical doctors and the Ministry of Health.

Effective 17 March, travelers arriving from South Korea, Egypt, UK, Germany, France, Spain and USA as well as China, Hong Kong, Italy, Iran and Iraq are subject to government quarantine for at least 14 days.

Effective 13 March, until further notice, all commercial flights to and from Kuwait have been suspended.

In case the holder cannot re-enter Kuwait due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, residence permits for work can be renewed by the employer while the employee is located outside Kuwait, provided they have a valid passport.

Residence permits for family members can be renewed by the principal applicant if the family members are outside Kuwait, or by the family members if the principal applicant is outside Kuwait, provided the passports are valid.

The Ministry of Interior will extend visits visas for two months and leave absences for three months.

Effective 8 March, visitors of any nationality, including holders of visit visas or residence permits, arriving from China, Hong Kong, Iraq, Iran or Italy, will be subject to hospital quarantine.

Visitors of any nationality, including holders of visit visas or residence permits, arriving from Japan, Singapore, Thailand, Germany, France, Spain, Bangladesh, India, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, USA, Netherlands, Switzerland, UK, Belgium, Sweden, Norway or Azerbaijan will be subject to home quarantine.

Effective 7 March, all flights have been suspended from and to Bangladesh, Philippines, India, Sri Lanka, Syria, Lebanon and Egypt. All travelers to Kuwait of any nationality, including those with a valid residence permit or entry visa, who have visited these countries in the previous 14 days are banned from entry. Kuwaiti citizens who have

visited these countries are allowed to enter, provided they submit to the necessary quarantine procedures.

 

Kuwait (continued)

The authorities have temporarily stopped issuing visas and first-time work permits, and have suspended entry, for nationals of China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Iran, Egypt, Italy, Russia, Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, Japan, Philippines, India, Bangladesh, Syria, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Sri Lanka, Georgia and Lebanon.

Kuwait will temporarily not allow Gulf citizens to enter the country using their national identity cards Kuwait has banned the entry of nationals from infected countries.

The civil aviation authorities have suspended all flights to and from South Korea, Thailand and Italy.

Effective 8 March, all passengers (other than Kuwaiti citizens) arriving from China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Italy, Russia, Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, Japan, Iran, Philippines, India, Bangladesh, Egypt, Syria, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Sri Lanka, Georgia and Lebanon must undergo a medical examination, before entering Kuwait, confirming they are free of COVID-19. The examination certificate must be issued by a health centre approved by a Kuwaiti embassy.

 

Kyrgyzstan

Temporarily closed ports and suspended flights between Kyrgyzstan and China. Visa issuance to Chinese passport

holders has been suspended. All travelers arriving from affected countries (including those transited through a third country) will be subjected to a medical screening. The traveler must wait in the quarantine area until the test results are obtained. The time for medical testing is estimated to be 2-3 days.

 

Laos

Temporarily suspended visa on arrival for Chinese passport holders at the Mohan-Boten border.

 

Latvia

Effective 16 March, entry is suspended for all foreign nationals other than permanent residents of Latvia. Citizens and permanent residents of Latvia can enter the country after this date. Land borders with Russia and Belarus will be closed to public and private transport. International air traffic is suspended (apart from certain repatriation flights).

 

Lebanon

Effective 19 March until 29 March, Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport is closed. Effective 18 March, entry is suspended for all foreign nationals.

Effective 16 March, all air, land and sea ports are closed.

Non-Lebanese nationals with a valid residence permit, along with Lebanese citizens and their families not coming from France, Syria, Egypt, Iraq, Germany, Spain, the UK, Italy, Iran, China, Hong Kong, Macao, and South Korea, are allowed to enter the country until 18 March.

 

Liberia

Passengers departing from China are required to be quarantined for 14 days.

 

Lithuania

Effective 15 March, entry is suspended for foreign nationals and exit is suspended for Lithuanian nationals. Those who wish to return to their country of residence will be allowed to transit though the territory until 00:00 on 23 March.

 

Luxembourg

Effective immediately, the validity of short and long-stay visas, visa-free stays, temporary and permanent and other residence permits is automatically extended for the duration of the state of crisis.

The Immigration Directorate is not accepting manual applications or document submissions, and all reception desks are closed until further notice. Appointments can be made in emergency situations.

 

Macau

All individuals having traveled to several areas of mainland China, Italy, Iran, South Korea, Germany, France, Spain, or Japan in the 14 days prior to their scheduled arrival to the territory will be subject to a medical examination upon entry to Macao.

 

Madagascar

All travelers arriving from or having recently visited China will have their temperatures checked and may be subject to additional medical screening. Suspected cases will be quarantined. Chinese passport holders and recent travelers to China may be required to complete a health questionnaire and provide it upon arrival.

 

Malaysia

Effective 18 March until 31 March, entry will be suspended for all foreign nationals, including valid pass/permit holders.

Malaysian citizens and permanent residence(PR) holders can enter but are subject to 14 days of self-quarantine. The same goes for the spouses and children of Malaysian citizens holding a Long-Term Social Visit Pass, foreign 

diplomats and their spouses and children.

Malaysian citizens and PR holders who have a valid long-term residence permit for a third country can exit to that country but cannot return to Malaysia before 31 March. The same goes for all other foreign nationals.

Malaysian citizens and PR holders, including those who hold work permits for Singapore or Thailand and commute daily by land, are not permitted to exit Malaysia.

All travel between East and West Malaysia is restricted.

Transit through Kuala Lumpur International airport, without going through an immigration checkpoint, is allowed. Malaysian citizens and PR holders transiting gat the Malaysian border with Brunei may be allowed to exit and enter at the discretion of the immigration authorities.

In the same period, all immigration offices nationwide will be closed, including the submission counters at MYXpats Centre and the Expatriate Services Division (ESD status companies), the e-Xpats Service Centre of MDEC (MSC/ICT status companies) and the Malaysia Investment Development Authority (MIDA).

Online submission to MDEC is still available via e-Xpats online, but not for new applications submitted from outside

Malaysia. Processing timelines for Stage 1 applications will be delayed.

 

Malaysia (continued)

The government has put on hold entry to Malaysia and the issuance of all types of entry visa, work permit and dependent permit from passports issued in Hubei, Zhejiang, Jiangsu and other nearby provinces, as well as travelers of all nationalities who have visited the affected regions of China in the last 14 days.

The entry and visa/permit issuance ban is also extended to nationals of South Korea, Italy, Japan and Iran, as well as to travelers who have visited the following regions in the previous 14 days: Daegu City and Cheongdo Country in South Korea; Lombardy, Veneto and Emilia-Romagna in Italy; Hokkaido in Japan; and Tehran, Qom and Gilan in Iran. Foreign Knowledge Workers (FKWs) from China whose Stage 1 approvals were granted before 30 January 2020 and have since entered Malaysia are subjected to a 14 days quarantine period before passports are submitted to MDEC’s e-Xpats Service Centre for endorsement purposes (Stage 2). The same rule is also applied to nationals 

and other FKWs who may have traveled to the affected areas in the Republic of Korea, Italy, Japan and Iran.

 

Malawi

Foreign Knowledge Workers (FKWs) from China whose Stage 1 approvals were granted before 30 January 2020 and have since entered Malaysia are subjected to a 14 days quarantine period before passports are submitted to MDEC’s e-Xpats Service Centre for endorsement purposes (Stage 2). The same rule is also applied to nationals and other FKWs who may have traveled to the affected areas in the Republic of Korea, Italy, Japan and Iran.

 

Maldives

Suspended direct flights between China and Maldives until further notice. Entry or transit is not permitted to all non- Maldives passport holders coming from China or for those who have visited China in the pas 14 days.

 

Mali

Travelers are required to get their temperature checked, and go through a screening upon arrival. Suspected cases will be quarantined. Some countries may require Chinese passport holders to fill out health questionnaires and submit them upon arrival.

 

Malta

Effective 21 March, all incoming flights are suspended.

Effective 13 March, all arrivals from all countries are subject to self-quarantine for 14 days.

Effective 12 March, all air and sea travel is suspended to and from Germany, France, Spain and Switzerland. All travel to and from Italy was suspended from 10 March.

Employers of foreign national employees whose residence cards are set to expire between 13 and 31 March should submit a renewal application online. Change of employer applications and initial single permit applications should also be submitted online by the employer. Non-work permit applicants (visa or residence) who enter/ed the territory between 1 March and 31 March should submit their application after 1 April or after the 14-day quarantine period lapses.

Third-country nationals who are/were authorized to stay in Malta at any point in time during March 2020 will be allowed to submit an application for a visa or residence permit after 1 April.

Those who do not intend to apply for a visa or residence permit to extend their stays in Malta are to leave the territory immediately upon the expiry of their authorization to stay.

EU nationals do not require a residence document for a period of three months from the date of entry into Malta. However, should they plan to reside in Malta for longer than three months, they are expected to apply for a residence document. EU nationals and their family members who enter/ed the territory between 1 March and 31 March should not visit Identity Malta's premises before 1 April or after the 14-day quarantine period lapses.

EU nationals and their family members may apply to renew their residence document if they did not enter Malta from abroad in the 14 days preceding the date they visit Identity Malta's offices. Individuals may submit their renewal application even if their residency document has expired. However, it is advisable to apply for a renewal prior to the expiry. The above EU provisions are also applicable to UK nationals residing in Malta and who have not applied for their residency documents yet.

 

Marshall Islands

Temporarily denied entry to any traveler from China, Hong Kong, and Macao until 2 March 2 2020.

 

Mauritania

Travelers are required to get their temperature checked, and go through a screening upon arrival. Suspected cases

will be quarantined. Some countries may require Chinese passport holders to fill out health questionnaires and submit them upon arrival.

 

Mauritius

Temporarily denied entry and transit to foreign travelers who reside in China or have been to China within the last 14 days since 2 February 2020. Permanent residents of Mauritius (including spouses and children) who have departed from China or visited China within 14 days will be allowed to entry, and be subjected to quarantine.

 

Mexico

As of 19 March, Mexico has so far not imposed any travel or immigration restrictions.

 

Micronesia

Temporarily denied entry to all travelers who departed from or transited through China after January 6.

All other passengers are required to provide health certificates proving that they do not present symptoms of the coronavirus infection if they have been in countries or regions where an outbreak has occurred for more than 14 days before entry.

 

Moldova

Effective 17 March, entry is suspended for all foreign nationals.

 

Mongolia

Entry not permitted to Chinese passport holders and visitors from third countries transiting through China to Mongolia until 2 March 2020. Chinese citizens who are in Mongolia are allowed to return home and may leave the country through air or rail ports. Mongolia has closed its borders with China.

 

Morocco

Effective 15 March, all international flights to and from Morocco are suspended.

 

Mozambique

Effective 23 March, for at least one month, the issuance of entry visas is suspended, and all visas already issued are

canceled. All arrivals of any nationality from any country of origin are subject to 14 days of quarantine.

Effective 14 March, all arrivals of any nationality from any country with more than 1000 confirmed cases of COVID-19, or at least 100 daily infections, are subject to 14 days of quarantine.

 

Namibia

Effective immediately, Namibia has issued a travel ban for all Schengen states, China, Iran, South Korea, Japan, UK

and USA. Nationals from such countries will not be issued with a visa at the airport for the next 30 days. All citizens and permanent residence holders arriving from high-risk countries will be subject to supervised quarantine. The borders to South Africa remain open for the return of citizens and foreigners existing.

In addition a travel suspension for 30 days has been announced for all locals. All flights to and from Qatar, Ethiopia and Germany are suspended for 30 days.

 

Netherlands

Effective 19 March at 18:00 hours, and for 30 days, entry is suspended for non-essential travel of persons from third countries, including tourist visa holders.

The travel restriction does not apply to EU citizens (including UK nationals) and their family members, nationals of Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and their family members, third-country nationals holding a residence card or permit, right to residence long-stay visa or temporary residence permit (MVV), transit passengers, cross- border workers and others working in essential functions.

Effective 15 March, the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (INS) has suspended all interviews up until 6 April. Services provided at IND offices are limited to urgent matters.

 

New Zealand

Effective 19 March at 11:59pm local time, entry is suspended for all non-resident foreign nationals other than the partners and children of New Zealand citizens. The following are exempt: NZ citizens and permanent residents; the immediate family of NZ citizens or residents, if traveling together with their NZ citizen ore resident family member; Australian citizens and residents who normally live in NZ; aircraft and marine crew. Exceptions will be considered for humanitarian reasons, health and other essential workers, citizens of Samoa and Tonga for essential travel to NZ, and holders of visitor visas who are the dependent family member of a temporary or student visa holder currently resident in NZ.

All returning NZ citizens and residents must still self-isolate for 14 days. Visa waiver travel for tourism or business is suspended.

Transit through NZ is only permitted for Australian citizens or residents (including immediate family) with a final destination of Australia.

INZ's Beijing, Mumbai and Manila offices remain closed during this time. Temporary visa holders inside NZ can submit an extension application if necessary. Refunds or deferrals will not be given on completed visa applications.

Effective 16 March, and for at least 30 days, all arrivals from most countries, including New Zealand nationals and residents, will be required to undergo self-isolation for 14 days. The only exception is for travelers from small South Pacific island nations (Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, New Caledonia, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Tokelau, Wallis and Futuna).

 

New Zealand (continued)

All foreign nationals who have departed from or transited through mainland China or Iran in the previous 14 days will be refused entry.

New Zealand citizens, permanent residents and their immediate family members will still be able to enter NZ, but they must isolate themselves for the first 14 days of arrival.

No cruise ships will enter NZ waters until at least the 30 June.

 

Nicaragua

Travelers are required to get their temperature checked, and go through a screening upon arrival. Suspected cases will be quarantined. Some countries may require Chinese passport holders to fill out health questionnaires and submit them upon arrival.

 

Nigeria

Effective 21 March and for four weeks, entry is suspended for nationals of and arrivals from China, Italy, Iran, South Korea, Spain, Japan, France, Germany, USA, Norway, UK, Netherlands and Switzerland.

Travelers entering Nigeria from any country are subject to self-isolation for at least 14 days at home.

 

Norway

Effective 16 March, all Norwegian airports and seaports will be closed. However, planes carrying Norwegian citizens will be allowed to land.

Entry is suspended for all foreign nationals without a residence permit. Holders of short-term visas (i.e. Schengen type C or D) will be denied entry.

Also effective 16 March, all foreign nationals without a residence permit will be removed from Norway. EU/EEA nationals and their family members residing or working in Norway are exempt.

All visa applications to Norway will be rejected on the grounds that the applicant is regarded a threat to public health. Effective 13 March, all foreign nationals arriving at Oslo Airport from outside the Nordic countries will be denied entry and required to return home. Foreign nationals who show symptoms will be tested for COVID-19 and placed in isolation for 14 days.

Effective 13 March, most public offices are closed until further notice with no information on current alternative solutions for service delivery. It is anticipated that from 14 or 16 March ALL public offices will be closed. The tax and police office in Oslo is closed until further notice. All pre-booked appointments for police at the Service Centre for Foreign Workers during the period 12 – 26 March are canceled. It will not be possible to issue residence permits, submit applications for residence permits or order residence cards. Citizens of the EEA will not be able to register or have the registration certificate issued by the police.

Effective 12 March, anyone who has traveled outside the Nordic region (Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway) since February 27 will be quarantined at home for 14 days on arrival.

 

Oman

Effective 17 March, entry is suspended by land sea and air for all individuals, except citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. All individuals entering Oman will be required to undergo a 14-day quarantine.

Oman has suspended all tourist visas, including those already issued, for all nationalities for one month, effective 15 March.

Entry is suspended for any travelers who have visited significantly-affected countries.

 

Pakistan

Effective 21 March, all international flights are suspended. Effective 13 March, all land borders were closed for 15 days.

 

Palau

Passengers who have transited through or have been in China (People's Rep.), Hong Kong (SAR China) or Macao (SAR China) in the past 14 days are not allowed to enter Palau. Travelers are required to get their temperature checked, and go through a screening upon arrival. Suspected cases will be quarantined.

 

Panama

Effective 22 March at 23:59 (local time), all commercial international flights to and from Panama are suspended. Effective 17 March, the Department of Labour Immigration extends the validity of all expiring work permits until 7 April. All personal appointments are suspended.

Effective 17 March, entry is suspended to all individuals other than citizens and foreign residents of Panama. All borders are closed and international flights are suspended for at least 15 days.

Effective immediately, the Ministry of Labour has suspended biometric enrolment and the issuance of work permit ID cards, for 15 working days. The validity of work permits which expire during this period will be extended by 15 days. Any foreign employee who has not yet been issued their work permit must carry a copy of Resolution DM131-2020 which introduced these measures. All work permit procedures must be handled only by duly authorized attorneys or paralegals. An online work permit submission and notification process has been implemented.

Effective immediately, the National Immigration Authority has suspended biometric enrolment and the issuance of residence permit ID cards (temporary ID-cards, provisional ID-cards, non-resident visas, court stay ID-cards and “Crisol de Razas” ID-cards) for 15 working days. The validity of work permits which expire during this period will be extended by 15 days. Any foreign employee who has not yet been issued their residence permit ID card must carry a copy of

Resolution 5731 which introduced these measures and a stamped copy of their application.

 

Papua New Guinea

Entry not permitted to travelers who have been to Hubei province in the last three weeks. Travelers will have to go through a health screening procedures and fill out a questionnaire upon entry.

 

Paraguay

Visas issued to nationals of China (People's Rep.) are invalidated.

 

Peru

Effective 16 March, entry is suspended for 15 calendar days. All international flights are prohibited. The Peruvian Immigration Authority (Migraciones) will be closed with suspension of operations for a period of 15 calendar days. Effective 13 April, all flights to and from Europe and Asia are suspended.

All passengers entering Peru need to submit a sworn health statement.

Nationals of and travelers who have visited identified high-risk countries must undergo a 14-day quarantine period.

 

Philippines

Effective 22 March, holders of visas issued by the Philippine Foreign Service (i.e. 9(a) temporary visitor/tourist visas) will not be allowed entry into Philippines, and all previously-issued visas will be deemed canceled. Visas issued to foreign spouses and children of Filipino nationals, accredited foreign government and international organization officials and their dependents are exempted and will remain valid.

Effective 19 March, visa issuance at Philippines consulate, and visa-free privilege, is temporarily suspended until further notice.

This temporary suspension has no impact on foreign nationals that are already in the country or on holders of visas issued by other government agencies.

Effective 17 March until 13 April, enhanced quarantine and social distancing measures have been introduced in Luzon, including the National Capital Region (NCR). Land, air and sea travel is restricted. Outbound passengers intending to depart the Philippines from any of the international airports in Luzon will be allowed to travel at any time. Inbound international passengers already in transit will be allowed entry, subject to applicable quarantine procedures if coming from countries with existing travel restrictions. Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), balikbayans, and foreign nationals leaving for abroad through any of the ports in Luzon shall be allowed to leave the Philippines at any time for the duration of the Enhanced Community Quarantine, provided they meet certain criteria. For passengers from Italy and Iran, it was agreed that the medical certificates of good health required should be validated by their respective embassies. All inbound Filipino citizens including any foreign spouse and children, holders of Permanent Resident Visas, and holders of 9(e) Diplomat Visas issued by the Philippines Government will be allowed entry, subject to applicable quarantine procedures if coming from countries with existing travel restrictions.

 

Philippines (continued)

Effective 16 March, passengers who have visited Iran or Italy in the previous 14 days are required to present a medical certificate issued by competent medical authorities within the previous 48 hours certifying they are not infected with the new coronavirus. Those who present a medical certificate will be referred to the Bureau of Quarantine for a mandatory 14-day quarantine. Those who do not present a medical certificate will be denied entry. Exempted are Filipino nationals, and their foreign spouse and children, permanent residents and members of the diplomatic corps. Those exempted will still be referred to the Bureau of Quarantine.

The current travel restrictions for travelers coming from or going to Hong Kong, Macau and certain areas of South Korea are still in place.

Travel restrictions are lifted for Balik-Manggagawa overseas Filipino Workers returning to mainland China except for Hubei province.

Effective 16 March, until 14 April, Consular Offices (CO) in Metro Manila and ASEANA Business Park will be temporarily operating with a skeletal workforce and provide consular services only to individuals with urgent needs, such as Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and those with medical cases.Applicants who have no urgent need for consular services, including those with confirmed passport appointments or seeking authentication and civil registration services, are requested to defer their visits to these COs until the community quarantine period ends.

Effective 13 March, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has suspended work in the National Capital Region (NCR) until 12 April. This is likely to affect work visa applications submitted to the DOJ.

Effective 11 March, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has implemented a four-day work week (Monday to Thursday), which may affect work permit applications filed with DOLE. The rule also applies to the Philippines Overseas Welfare Administration (POEA), the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC).

 

Philippines (continued)

On 12 March, the Philippines government announced various additional measures imposing stringent social distancing in the National Capital Region.

Effective 15 March, land, domestic air, and domestic sea travel to and from Metro Manila will be suspended.

Entry restrictions will also be imposed on anyone traveling from countries with localized COVID-19 outbreaks, except for Filipino citizens and their foreign spouse and children, if any, and holders of permanent residence or diplomatic visas.

On 14 February, the government lifted its temporary entry ban on visitors from Taiwan.

The government has temporarily banned the entry of any person, regardless of nationality, except Filipino citizens and permanent residents, who within 14 days immediately preceding arrival in the Philippines, has been to China and its Special Administrative Regions;

Also in place is a temporary ban on the entry of any person, regardless of nationality, except Filipino citizens and permanent residents, arriving from South Korea’s North Gyeongsang Province, Daegu City and Cheongdo County. There is a mandatory 14-day quarantine for Filipino citizens and permanent residents coming from any place in China and its Special Administrative Regions, or South Korea’s North Gyeongsang Province, Daegu City and Cheongdo County.

 

Poland

Effective immediately, Polish consulates are restricting their consular services for foreign nationals. The exact restrictions introduced varies, depending on the consulate. In most cases, visa appointments are cancelled until further notice.

Effective 16 March, in-person submission of residence permit applications is suspended at immigration offices. All previously-booked appointments are canceled, and further appointments will not be made until further notice.

Application and document submission by post is welcomed.

Effective 15 March, entry is suspended for foreign nationals other than foreign national residents of Poland. This

includes holders of work visas, holders of an employer’s declaration on entrusting work to a foreign national and EU citizens holding EU registration certificates.

Also exempt are foreign spouses or children of Polish citizens, Pole’s Card holders, work permit or Polish diploma holders and diplomatic staff.

Border controls with Schengen countries have been reintroduced from 15 to 24 March. The Polish border with Germany, Lithuania, Czech Republic and Slovakia can only be crossed in designated places.

Border traffic is suspended at 7 border checkpoints with Ukraine, 5 with Belarus and 2 with Russia. Border control is also carried out at 4 seaports and 17 airports.

All international flights are suspended.

International parcels cannot be posted at the Polish National Post Office

All persons entering Poland, including Polish citizens, must undergo a 14-day quarantine period.

Some consulates (e.g.,, all consulates in the US and the consulate in New Delhi) have announced the suspension of new visa applications and all existing appointments.

 

Portugal

Effective 18 March, flights are suspended to countries outside the EU/EEA, except for UK, US, Canada, Venezuela, South Africa and Portuguese-speaking countries. Flights to Brazil are limited to Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Flights to and from Italy are suspended.

Effective 16 March until 15 April, only cross border workers, goods traffic, and individuals returning to their place of residence will be allowed to travel across the land border with Spain.

All immigration documents that have expired or are due to expire are automatically extended until 30 June 2020. Any foreign national seeking entry must present a letter explaining the reason and may not be permitted to enter. Immigration offices are open but accepting limited visitors. As a result, immigration processes are being delayed.

 

Qatar

Effective 18 March, entry is suspended for all foreign nationals for 14 days. Returning Qatari citizens will be required to undergo a 14-day self-quarantine. All flights into Doha’s Hamad International Airport are suspended.

Entry is suspended for all those intending to travel from Bangladesh, China, Egypt, India, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Syria and Thailand, including visas upon arrival, those with a residence

or work permit, and temporary visitors.

 

Romania

Effective 16 March, all flights to and from China, Italy, Iran and South Korea are suspended.

Citizens of China, Italy, Iran and South Korea may enter Romania by land but are subject to medical checks and quarantine.

Many flights to and from Spain, Germany and France have been canceled.

Anyone traveling to Romania from countries with at least 500 registered COVID-19 cases may be screened on 

arrival and may be quarantined. As of today, this includes Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Switzerland, Japan, United Kingdom, Norway, Netherlands, USA and Sweden

The Romanian immigration authorities are only accepting pre-booked appointments based on the prior online submission of application files. This will trigger around 2-3 weeks delay in the immigration process.

The immigration authorities are not currently accepting applications for permanent residence.

The Ministry of Education is only receiving requests for acknowledgement of foreign qualifications by post.

 

Russia

On 19 March, the Ministry of Internal Affairs order its territorial divisions to extend visas and visa-free stays for up to 90 days, even if already expired. Administrative penalties will not be applied. Exit visas will also be issued if required. Applications for corporate work permits, work permits and work patents will be accepted (without the need to cross the Russian border in the case of work patents).

Temporary Residence Permits (TRP) and Permanent Residence Permits (PRP) will be extendable up to 90 days in case of expiry.

Biometric capture will be required for extensions of stay.

Work permits, TRPs and PRPs will not be annulled even after the expiration of the six months term of person’s stay abroad if the document holder cannot enter Russia.

Effective 18 March (at 12am local time) until 1 May (at 12am local time), entry is suspended for all foreign nationals, diplomats, employees of international organizations and their families, transport crews, permanent residents and passengers in airport transport.

Effective 18 March, the Ministry of Internal Affairs has suspended the submission of documents, and the issuance of visa invitations and work permits. Acceptance of correction and extension applications depends on the office of application.

Effective 18 March, visa issuance is suspended at Russian consulates. Previously lodged applications may be issued or may be returned without issuance, depending on the consulate and the date of submission. Electronic visa issuance is also suspended.

Foreign nationals are permitted to exit Russia, but will not be allowed to re-enter.

 

Russia (continued)

Effective immediately, anyone arriving from the following countries must inform the authorities of their arrival, provide contact details, and self-isolate for 14 days from the date of arrival (or for the whole time of their stay), even in the absence of symptoms: China, South Korea, Iran, Italy, Germany, Spain, other EU member states, Serbia, Albania, UK, Northern Macedonia, Montenegro, Andorra, Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, Monaco, Liechtenstein, Moldova, Belarus, Ukraine, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Vatican, San Marino, Croatia, USA.

Effective 14 March, employers are prohibited from allowing employees into their workplaces who have been placed under quarantine but have not yet completed the quarantine period.

Effective 14 March, individuals who cohabitate with those under quarantine have to self-isolate for 14 calendar days. Effective immediately, the Russian borders with Czech Republic, Ukraine, Poland, Norway and Belarus are closed for exit and entry.

Effective 15 March, rail traffic with Latvia, Moldova and Ukraine has been closed until further notice.

Effective 13 March, temporary suspension of entry and issuance of work permits, invitation letters and visas has been extended to citizens of Italy, as well as foreign nationals resident in Italy, for training employment, private, tourist or transit purposes. Citizens of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and permanent residents of Russia are exempt.Also effective 13 March, air traffic is restricted between Russia and Italy France, Spain and Germany. All flights to and from these countries will be carried out by Aeroflot and limited to certain cities only. In particular, air communication between the Russian Federation and Italy will be carried out only along the Moscow-Rome route.

For now, visa and work permit extensions for Italian nationals in Russia appears to be continuing as usual.

 

Russia (continued)

Anyone entering Moscow from affected territories is obliged to submit their travel history and contact details to the authorities. Anyone entering another Russian region is advised to submit their travel history and contact information to the authorities.

Anyone arriving from China, South Korea, Iran, Italy, Germany, France or Spain must inform the authorities of their arrival, provide contact details, and self-isolate for 14 days from the date of arrival (or for the whole time of their stay), even in the absence of symptoms.

Permanent residents of Moscow who notice symptoms of COVID-19 infection are obliged to self-isolate at home and seek medical help without visiting medical organizations.

Foreign nationals are temporarily banned from entering Russia from China, Iran or South Korea.

Russia has closed its land borders with China to all traffic, and has also suspended the issuance of electronic visas to Chinese nationals. It has also suspended rail traffic and restricted air traffic with China.

All passenger trains between Ulan Bator and Moscow have been canceled.

Russian consulates in China have temporarily suspended acceptance of applications and issuance of private, tourist and student visas to Chinese nationals. Service, business, humanitarian and transit visas may still be issued.

Entry of Chinese citizens under work, private, tourist and student visas is temporarily suspended from 20 February. Entry of Chinese holders of service, business, humanitarian and transit visas is not restricted.

 

Russia (continued)

The following immigration services have been suspended:

*Issuance, extension and correction of work permits for Chinese citizens in Moscow;

*Issuance of work visas at the Russian consulates in China;

*Issuance of invitation letters for Chinese citizens;

*Issuance of e-visas for Chinese citizens;

*Issuance of tourist documents for organised tourist groups from China.

In Moscow, already-approved work permits are not being handed over to Chinese citizens in some cases. Work visa extension and transfer applications are still being processed, until further notice.

Entry to Russia via airports, other than via Moscow Sheremetyevo airport, is temporarily suspended for foreign nationals, other than citizens of the Eurasian Economic Union, arriving from South Korea or Iran.

Documents will not be accepted, processed or issued for Iranian nationals for visas for work, private visit, study, tourism, transit or eVisas, or for visa invitations or work permits.

Citizens of Iran or South Korea entering Russia will be tested on entry and undergo quarantine at their place of residence for 14 days.

Foreign nationals other than citizens of the Eurasian Economic Union are suspended from entry to Russia if traveling from Iran.

Russian authorities have temporarily suspended acceptance of applications and issuance of work, private, tourist and student visas, as well as work permits and visa invitations, to foreign nationals resident in Iran.

 

Samoa

Entry to Russia via airports, other than via Moscow Sheremetyevo airport, is temporarily suspended for foreign

nationals, other than citizens of the Eurasian Economic Union, arriving from South Korea or Iran.

 

Saudi Arabia

Effective 16 March, entry is suspended to most governmental sectors other than medical, military, security and electronic security sectors.

Effective 15 March, holders of business, tourist, medical treatment, trading or family visit visas can request a visa extension at the passport office upon payment of a fee.

Effective 14 March, all international flights to and from Saudi Arabia will be suspended for two weeks. The period will be considered an exceptional official holiday for citizens and residents who are unable to return to work due to the flight suspension or quarantine.

Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended entry for the purposes of religious pilgrimage.

Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC ) nationals including KSA nationals are required to use their passports instead of their ID Cards for entry to and exit from Saudi Arabia, and to demonstrate no infection over 14 days before entry.

Effective 15 March, all travelers, including Saudi citizens and residents, arriving from the EU, Switzerland, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Philippines, Sudan, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Kenya, Djibouti, and Somalia are temporarily banned from entry to Saudi Arabia. Flights to and from these countries will be halted. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) clarified that Saudi citizens and citizens of the EU and the other aforementioned countries have 72 hours from Thursday to return to Saudi Arabia before the travel suspensions come into effect.

Saudi Arabia has also suspended travel by air and sea to and from France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Oman, Turkey, UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Lebanon, Syria, South Korea, Egypt and Iraq, and the land border with Jordan.

Saudi Arabia have also suspended the entry of tourist visa holders coming from countries where the new COVID-19 is spreading dangerously, (including China, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, and Singapore).

Holders of multiple re-entry visit visas, including business visit visas and work visit visas, can re-enter the country provided they did not visit any country affected by COVID-19 in the previous 14 days.

 

Serbia

Effective 15 March, entry is suspended for foreign nationals other than full-time residents and diplomats. Serbian citizens and foreign residents who enter must self-isolate at home for 14 days. Those who, in the previous 14 days, have visited Italy, Switzerland, Iran, Spain, Germany, France, Austria, Slovenia or Greece, are subject to quarantine for 28 days.

 

Seychelles

Documents will not be accepted, processed or issued for Iranian nationals for visas for work, private visit, study, tourism, transit or eVisas, or for visa invitations or work permits.

 

Sierra Leone

Citizens of Iran or South Korea entering Russia will be tested on entry and undergo quarantine at their place of residence for 14 days.

 

Singapore

Effective 23 March at 23:59 hours, entry and transit are suspended for all short-term visitors from anywhere in the world. Furthermore the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will only allow the entry/ return of work pass holders, including their dependents, for those providing essential services, such as in healthcare and transport.

The Singapore-Malaysia Special Working Committee has agreed that Malaysians with Singapore work permits will continue to be able to work in Singapore during this period, with appropriate accommodation arrangements.

Effective 20 March at 23:59 hours, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will require all new and existing Singapore long- term pass holders planning to enter or return to Singapore from any country to obtain MOM entry approval before commencing their journey. Employers are to make this MOM Entry Approval request at least three days before their intended travel into Singapore using this online facility. Applications submitted by 12pm will receive the outcome on the same day (after 12pm will receive the outcome the next day). Applications are processed on a ‘first-come-first- served’ basis. Approval is not guaranteed but it is important that the approval is received before arranging for the pass holder to enter Singapore. If the approval is rejected, a fresh approval request is to be submitted.

Effective 20 March at 23:59 hours, all travelers, including Singaporean citizens, Permanent Residents, Long-Term Pass holders and short-term visitors entering Singapore will be issued a mandatory 14-day Stay-Home Notice (SHN). They will have to provide proof of the place where they will serve the 14-day SHN, for example a hotel booking covering the entire period, or a place of residence they or their family members own. They may also be swabbed for testing for COVID-19, even if asymptomatic.

Simultaneously, all short-term visitors who are nationals of any ASEAN country will have to submit requisite information on their health to the Singapore Overseas Mission in the country they are resident before their intended date of travel. The submission will have to be approved by Singapore’s Ministry of Health (MOH) before travel to Singapore, and the approval will be verified by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers at the Singapore checkpoints. Short-term visitors who arrive in Singapore without the necessary approval will be denied entry into Singapore.

With immediate effect, Singapore will cease port calls for all cruise vessels.

 

Singapore (continued)

Singapore citizens and permanent residents and long-term pass holders (including Work Passes and Permits, Student Pass, Dependent Pass, Long-term Visit Pass and in-principle approval (IPA) for a Work Pass) who have visited Hubei in the last 14 days, or are holders of PRC passports issued in Hubei, and who are currently overseas, will be quarantined on arrival. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) strongly urges employers to ask these employees to defer coming into Singapore until further notice. Employers must inform MOM by 7 February that they have deferred the return of these employees, and if not, provide the reasons why not.

Employers or Employment Agents acting on behalf of the hiring company will not be allowed to proceed with the issuance of work passes for employees during their SHN period. After the SHN, the usual procedures for issuance of work pass i.e. send workers for medical examination, fingerprinting, attend the Settling-In program and safety courses, may then proceed.

MOM will revoke the licence of any Employment Agents who encourage or assist a person to breach their SHN. If the SHN is breached, MOM will take action against the employer and the employee.

 

Singapore (continued)

MOM will reject all new work pass applications for foreign workers from mainland China until further notice. Renewal applications for existing pass holders will not be affected.

MOM will automatically extend Short-Term Visit Passes by 14 days and, on request, extend the work pass issuance deadline.

Employers are advised to regularly check MOM's website and MOH's website.

Holders of PRC passports issued in Hubei, and all new visitors, of any nationality, with recent travel history (within the last 14 days) to mainland China, Iran, northern Italy or South Korea will not be allowed to enter or transit Singapore. The issuance of all forms of new visas to those with Chinese or Iranian passports has been suspended. Previously issued short-term and multiple-visit visas for those with Iranian passports will also be suspended and during this period of suspension, they will not be allowed entry into Singapore.

 

Slovakia

Effective 13 March, only Slovak citizens and foreign nationals with temporary or permanent residence in Slovakia will be allowed to enter the country. Those living in Austria/Hungary but working in Slovakia or those living in Slovakia and working in neighbouring countries should provide proof from their employer to be shown at the border crossing.

All Slovak citizens and foreign nationals with temporary and permanent residence in Slovakia who return from abroad must enter a 14-day quarantine at home, with the exception of those who live in a neighbouring country and commute to work in Slovakia.

All 3 international airports are closed, an international bus and train transport is restricted. Foreign police offices will operate a restricted service.

All arrivals from China, Iran, Italy and South Korea and their family members must undergo a 14-day quarantine period.

 

Slovenia

Arrivals via the border with Italy will have to present an official certificate of testing negative for COVID-19, in Slovenian, Italian or English, issued within the previous 3 days. Without a certificate, they may still be admitted if they are asymptomatic.

 

Solomon islands

Travelers who have visited China in the past 14 days will be temporarily denied entry. Travelers from other countries and territories with reported coronavirus outbreaks are prohibited from transiting through Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Kiribati and Nauru. Passengers traveling from Brisbane, Australia, will undergo rigorous screening before entry.

 

South Africa

Effective 18 March, until further notice, a travel ban applies to individuals of all nationalities traveling from Italy, Iran, South Korea, Spain, Germany, USA, UK, China and any other high-risk country determined by the Government.

Foreign nationals who have visited these countries since 15 March do not qualify to be issued with Port of Entry Visas or Temporary Residence Visas until further notice.

The 90-day Visa waiver/exemption applicable to Italian, South Korean, Spanish, German, American and British (U.K.) passport holders, which allowed for them to be issued with Visitor’s Visas upon arrival in the country, has been withdrawn with immediate effect. Holders of these passports will be refused entry to South Africa if they are not in possession of a Port of Entry Visa prior to travel. (This visa will have to be applied for, and issued, by the South African Diplomatic Mission abroad prior to travel.) It is currently not possible for nationals resident in these countries to apply for visas.

All Port of Entry Visas issued to Chinese and Iranian passport holders on or before 15 March for the purposes of visiting South Africa, are deemed to be canceled and declared null and void. This does not apply to all categories of Temporary Residence Visa.

The 90-day visa waiver/exemption applicable to Portuguese and Singaporean passport holders and the 30-day visa waiver/exemption applicable to Hong Kong Special Administrative Region passport holders, which allowed for them to be issued with Visitor’s Visas upon arrival in the country has also been withdrawn with immediate effect. Holders of these passports will be refused entry to South Africa if they are not in possession of a Port of Entry Visa prior to travel. They may apply for visas at the South African Missions in their countries of citizenship or ordinary residence; however, they must include an official medical report completed by a qualified medical professional confirming that

they have not tested positive for COVID-19.

 

South Africa (continued)

All foreign nationals who arrived in South Africa since mid-February are subject to full testing.

The visas of foreign nationals already within South Africa are not revoked; they remain valid for the period for which they have been issued. All foreign nationals originating from countries affected by the COVID-19 outbreak, or those who have to transit through an affected country to return home, and whose visas have or will expire are allowed to re- apply for the same visa which may be issued for a period not exceeding 31 July 2020, subject to meeting all legal application requirements; however, this does not include applications to change status from one visa category to another or to change the conditions endorsed on an existing visa. Those whose visas expired from 1 December 1 2019 up to and including present date and until 31 March 2020 will be allowed to reapply for their visas without first

having to apply to regularise their stays by applying for a “Form 20”. (authorization for an illegal foreigner to remain in the country pending the outcome of an application for status.)

 

Spain

Effective 16 March, initial residence application services at immigration offices will be suspended indefinitely.

 

Sri Lanka

Effective 18 March, all incoming flights are suspended for two weeks.

Effective 17 March, entry is suspended for travelers who have visited Italy, Iran, or South Korea in the previous 14 days. All entry visas are temporarily suspended for citizens of Austria, Bahrain, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Iran, Italy, Netherlands, Qatar, South Korea, Spain, and Sweden.

On-arrival visa facilities for foreigners arriving in Sri Lanka are temporarily suspended until further notice.

 

Sweden

The Swedish Migration Agency has requested that work permit applications are submitted with start dates for late April (i.e. after the current EU/Schengen travel ban has ended). They have also asked that revised start dates should be provided for already-submitted applications.

 

Switzerland

Effective 19 March, the labour market authorities will not review any work permit applications for third-country nationals or EU nationals on assignment until 16 June.

Under certain circumstances and depending on the jurisdiction, residence/work permit (local contract) applications may still be possible for EU/EFTA nationals not coming/traveling from countries at risk (non-EU countries, Italy, France, Austria, Germany and Spain). However, the authorities are currently only handling urgent requests and those applications may therefore be reviewed only after the health crisis.

Renewal applications for foreign nationals who reside in Switzerland are still being accepted. Renewal applications are however not considered as urgent matters and may therefore be considered only after the health crisis.

Effective 18 March, the government has extended its entry restrictions to people arriving from Spain.

Entry restriction measures are now extended to air traffic coming from Italy, France, Germany, Austria and to all non- Schengen countries (previously only road traffic).

The Federal Council has in addition stopped delivering Schengen visas (visas type C) and national visas (visas type D) to non-EU citizens, for a period initially fixed to three months. These persons won’t be allowed to enter Switzerland

except in exceptional situations (i.e. family members of Swiss nationals who are subject to visa obligation, health care specialists, etc.)

The government has reintroduced border checks with Italy, Germany, France and Austria. Only Swiss citizens, Swiss residents and people traveling to Switzerland for business are allowed to enter the country via these borders.

All travelers in Switzerland should always carry the ID/passport together with the Swiss permit (if applicable) or with a proof of the working activities in Switzerland (invitation letter from the company in Switzerland, online work authorization, employment contract etc.) especially when crossing the borders.

The Swiss Federal Railways are suspending international services .

Some cantonal migration authorities (e.g. Geneva, Bern, Basel, etc.) and local migration offices have started closing their counters and remain available only for very specific urgent services. Longer processing times apply due to skeleton staff.

 

Taiwan, China

Foreign nationals who entered Taiwan on or before 21 March on a visitor visa, landing visa or visa waiver and who have not overstayed their legal stay period will be granted an automatic 30-day extension. No application is required. The total period of stay cannot exceed 180 days.

Foreign nationals who have overstayed their legal stay period and turn themselves in between 20 March and 30 June are entitled to penalty relief measures: They will not be detained or receive an entry ban, and will be given only a minimum fine.

As of 21 March, initial and renewal work permit applications and Alien Registration Card (ARC) applications are not affected.

Effective 19 March, entry is suspended for all except Taiwanese citizens and alien residents. An exemption applies to ARC holders, diplomatic officials, and businesspeople with special entry permits authorized by ROC Taiwan government.

Foreign nationals who have been issued a work permit but have not yet entered Taiwan and have not been issued an Alien Resident Card (ARC) can apply for a visa at the relevant Taipei Economic & Cultural Office (TECO), but must also obtain a “Special Entry Permit” stamp in their passport, also from the TECO. Without both a valid entry visa and a Special Entry Permit stamp, entry will not be allowed. All travelers that are allowed to enter are required to undergo 14-day home quarantine.

Non-resident foreign nationals who have visited or resided in mainland China, Hong Kong or Macau in the past 14 days (including transit), and all mainland Chinese, Hong Kong and Macau nationals, are temporarily banned from entry and from accessing visa and entry permit application services.

Non-resident foreign nationals entering Taiwan via South Korea are subject to mandatory 14-day home quarantine. Foreign residents with Taiwan ARC cards, and Taiwan nationals, who have visited or resided in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau or South Korea in the previous 14 days (including transit) are subject to mandatory 14-day home quarantine after entering Taiwan.

Foreign nationals entering Taiwan via Thailand, Italy, Iran, Singapore and Japan will be subject to mandatory 14-days

self-health management protocol.

 

Taiwan, China (continued)

Foreign nationals seeking to enter Taiwan may apply for an entry permit or visa as long as they have not visited or resided in China during the previous 14 days, subject to additional requirements. Applications submitted by those who have visited or resided in China during this period will not be accepted.

When applying for a visa, foreign nationals must provide additional documents, including: a full travel history for the previous 14 days; a certificate of a health check-up conducted in the previous seven days showing that the applicant does not have a fever of 38 degrees Celsius or higher and is not suffering from respiratory tract or lung infections; and a signed affidavit stipulating that the applicant shall immediately notify health authorities in Taiwan when experiencing any symptoms detailed above.

Applications for temporary entry stays (landing visas and online visas) and the online application system for foreigners for Hong Kong and Macau residents have been suspended. In case of exceptional circumstances, Taipei Economic & Cultural Offices (TECO) abroad may accept and process applications on presentation of Entry and Exit Certification Records issued by the Hong Kong and Macau governments to prove no travel history to mainland China within the previous 14 days.

Hong Kong and Macau residents who obtained valid Entry and Exit documents for Taiwan before 7 February, have valid residence permits for Taiwan or are traveling to Taiwan from countries outside Hong Kong, and Macau must all be subject to 14 days of self-health management.

 

Tajikistan

Effective immediately, arrivals of any nationality who have recently visited China, Iran, Italy, the South Korea, Afghanistan, France, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UK, Norway, Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, Denmark or USA will be subject to 14-day quarantine.

 

Tanzania

Travelers who transit China, Hong Kong or Macau and are granted entry to Taiwan will be subject to 14 days of self- health management. Foreign nationals possessing a valid Taiwan Resident Certificate (ARC) who have visited or resided in China in the previous 14 days will be subject to 14 days of self-health management .

 

Thailand

Effective 20 March at 23:50 hours, local time, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand will require all travelers upon check-in to present their travel history for the previous 14 days, with a medical certificate certifying that they pose no risk of being infected by COVID-19, issued no more than 72 hours previously, and a health insurance policy showing minimum medical coverage of USD 100,000, covering Thailand and COVID-19. Passengers who, in the previous 14 days, have visited “Disease Infected Zones” (China, Macao, Hong Kong, South Korea, Italy and Iran) or “Ongoing Transmission Areas” (France, Spain, USA, Switzerland, UK, Norway, Denmark, Netherlands, Sweden, Germany or certain parts of Japan - Hokkaido, Tokyo, Aichi, Wakayama, Kanagawa, Chiba, Okinawa, Kyoto, Osaka), or who do not present the required documents, will be denied boarding.

All travelers entering Thailand will be required to undergo 14 days of self-quarantine at their own residence. Thai nationals must have a “Fit to Fly” health certificate and certifying letter issued by the Thai Embassy in the jurisdiction where they are staying.

Effective 19 March, Foreign nationals of all nationalities who have arrived in Thailand must wait 14 days from the date of their arrival in Thailand before their on-line application can be made on the BOI website to apply for ALL 

types of applications including new and renewal applications. As a result of this policy, foreign nationals will have to wait at least 3-4 weeks after entering Thailand before they will obtain their Digital Work Permit and long-term visa. The application can only be made on day 15 after arrival and will take five to ten days or more for processing. If a current work permit and visa are soon expiring and the 14–day wait is too long, the applicant must raise the issue of expiration date to the BOI online and request special permission NOT to wait for 14 days.

Effective 19 March, the following 18 countries and two Special Administrative Regions are considered restricted by the Employment Department: China, Macao, Hong Kong, South Korea, Iran, Italy, Japan, France, Germany, Taiwan,

Singapore, Spain, United States, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Norway, Netherlands, Sweden, Belgium and Austria.

 

Thailand (continued)

The Employment Department will accept new work permit applications from the Restricted Countries if the applications are made by an authorized representative of the foreign national, holding a Power of Attorney. Upon receipt of the work permit booklet the authorized representative can bring it to the foreign national for signature at home while they are in self-quarantine.

The Employment Dept at the One-Stop Service Centre announced today that they will only accept 50 applications per day, on a first-come, first-served basis.

The OSSC has temporarily suspended accepting PWPA applications and requested applicants to submit the PWPA application at the Employment District Office. This will cause delays in the processing time which normally takes one business day, but will now take 5-7 business days. Due to travel restrictions, before submitting PWPA applications, clients should check whether their foreign employees will be able to travel to Thailand. Once approval is given, the PWPA will only be valid for 30 days.

The Immigration Bureau requests that nationals of the restricted countries, and other nationals who have visited the restricted countries in the previous 14 days, do NOT file visa applications within 14 days of arrival, except if their visa will expire.

The immigration authorities in Thailand have confirmed that they will no longer issued Visa on Arrival to Chinese nationals, who should instead obtain a health certificate, apply for a visa at a Thai consulate and then obtain an updated health certificate to be presented to the Thai immigration authorities at the airport on arrival in Thailand. They will also be subject to a 14-day self-quarantine.

Effective 13 March, Visa on Arrival is suspended for nationals of 18 countries including Bulgaria, Bhutan, China, Cyprus, Ethiopia, Fiji, Georgia, India, Kazakhstan, Malta, Mexico, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan and Vanuatu. Nationals of these countries also need a Health Certificate issued within 48 hours of

flight departure certifying that they are free of COVID-19.

 

Thailand (continued)

Effective 13 March, visa-free entry for South Korea, Italy and Hong Kong are suspended. Nationals of these countries also need a Health Certificate issued within 48 hours of flight departure certifying that they are free of COVID-19.

Effective 12 March, foreign nationals arriving in Thailand will need to download an Airports of Thailand mobile app to provide information about themselves and where they will be staying.

The government will allow a 7-day visa extension period for tourist visa holders who are currently in Thailand. Longer extensions will be at the discretion of the local authority.

travelers arriving from or having transited through China, Macau, Hong Kong, South Korea, Italy or Iran are required to provide their address and travel plans; to enter voluntary self-quarantine at home or at a hotel for 14 days (and to report to the authorities daily); to enter government quarantine if showing symptoms of covid-19; and to postpone applying for visa extension until after the 14-day quarantine period.

Any person found to be in breach of the quarantine will face a fine of 20,000 baht.

Chinese nationals or travelers from China will be required to provide a medical certificate when applying for a Thai visa in China.

 

The Central African Republic

An online health declaration system will be launched to expedite the process of quarantine operations and immigration clearance upon arrival.

 

The Republic of Congo

Any traveler from country with a coronavirus outbreak will be quarantined for 14 days after entry in the Quintellian

Concorde hotel on the outskirts of Brazzaville.

The United Kingdom

Employers and visa holders are advised to collect evidence of any travel restrictions or flight cancelations causing them to overstay their permission to be in the UK, and to email an explanation to the Home Office coronavirus mailbox.

The Home Office recognizes the current situation is exceptional and will not take any compliance action against students or employees who are unable to attend their studies/work due to the coronavirus outbreak, or against sponsors which authorize absences and continue to sponsor students or employees despite absences for this reason. Applicants with coronavirus symptoms should not attend their appointment at a UK Visas and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre. Instead, visa applicants must email a dedicated mailbox and explain that this is the reason that they cannot attend. Sopra Steria will refund the application fee and notify the Home Office accordingly.

Individuals who, following their appointment at a UKVCAS centre develop symptoms or are diagnosed with coronavirus must inform Sopra Steria, by emailing the same mailbox.

Chinese nationals in the UK who are normally resident in China and whose visas expire between 24 January 2020 and 30 March 2020 will have their visas automatically extended to 31 March 2020.

Non-Chinese and non-EEA nationals in the UK who can prove that they are normally resident in China and whose visas expire between 24 January 2020 and 30 March 2020 should contact the COVID-19 immigration helpline to have their visas extended to 31 March 2020.

Chinese nationals in the UK whose leave was granted by the Irish authorities and expires between 24 January 2020 and 31 March 2020 should contact the COVID-19 immigration helpline to discuss their consequences.

Chinese nationals in the UK on a Tier 2 Intra-Company Transfer visa who want to switch to a Tier 2 (General) visa can exceptionally apply from within the UK, instead of from China, if their visa has an expiry date between 24 January 2020 and 30 March 2020. They will still need to pay the relevant fee and meet all other requirements for a Tier 2 General visa.

British nationals whose passports are at a UK Visa Application Centre (VAC) in China can apply for an emergency travel

document if they need to travel urgently.

 

The United Kingdom (continued)

Chinese or third-ountry nationals whose passports are at a UK Visa Application Centre (VAC) in China should 

contact the Chinese authorities or their consular representative in China to get an alternative travel document 

if they need to travel urgently.The Home Office will not take any compliance action against Tier 4 students or Tier 2/5 employees 

who are unable toattend their work/studies due to the COVID-19 outbreak, or against sponsors which authorize absences and continue to sponsor students or employees 

despite absences for this reason.Returning travelers or visitors arriving in the UK from Wuhan city and Hubei province (mainland China), Daegu or Cheongdo (South Korea), Iran or any Italian town under containment measures should self-isolate, even if asymptomatic, and call NHS 111 to inform of recent travel.

 

The United Arab Emirates

Effective immediately, entry is suspended for holders of valid residence permits and visas, until further notice. Effective immediately, issuance of all types of visas, including visas on arrival, is suspended.

The issuance of all types of work permit is suspended until further notice. UAE residents returning to the UAE are subject to self-quarantine for 14 days

Pending in-country visa applications require medical results to be submitted before biometrics can be taken. If possible, medical and biometric processing should be delayed.

All flights between UAE and Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, China (except Beijing) and Italy (except Rome) are temporarily suspended until further notice.

Effective 16 March, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has suspended all new employment, dependent and visit visa services for individuals outside UAE, until further notice. Clients can continue applying for new visas if the applicant is already in the UAE.

 

The United States of America

On 21 March, the US-Canada and US-Mexico land borders are temporarily closed, for an initial period of 30 days, for non-essential travel, by mutual decision. Cross-border trade and and regular commuters will not be blocked.

Effective 21 March, USCIS will accept certain benefit forms (including Form I-129) and supporting documents with

copies of original, “wet” signatures dated after 21 March will be accepted for the duration of the COVID-19 National Emergency. USCIS normally requires an original, handwritten signature on a number of documents, including the Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker. Allowing scans, photocopies, faxes or similar reproductions of the original document will reduce the required exchange of hard copy documents and support the telework arrangements currently being adopted by many employers. The original, signed documents must nevertheless be maintained as USCIS may request these at its discretion at any time during the adjudication of the case. Failure to produce the requested originals could "negatively impact the adjudication of the immigration benefit" which would cause a denial of the petition or application.

Effective 20 March, USCIS has suspended premium processing for Form I-129 and I-140 petitions, until further notice, for new requests. USCIS will process any petition with a previously accepted I-907 Request for Premium Processing Service application. Previously filed Forms I-129 or I-140s using premium processing that receive no action on their case within the 15 calendar-day period will receive a refund of the premium processing fee.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will temporarily defer the physical presence requirements associated with Employment Eligibility Verification (Form I-9) for employers who have transitioned to telework only for their workforce. This exception will not apply for employers for whom there are any employees physically present at a work location. This measure will be in place for the earlier of 60 days or 3 business days following the end of the National Emergency.

Effective 18 March, the US Department of State (DOS) suspended routine visa services in most countries until further notice. All routine immigrant and nonimmigrant visa appointments in most countries worldwide are cancelled. MRV

fees remain valid for a visa appointment in the country where it was paid within one year of the date of payment.

 

The United States of America (continued)

Effective 18 March until at least 1 April, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is suspending in-person services at its field offices, asylum offices and Application Support Centers (ASCs), but will provide limited emergency services. USCIS field offices will send notices to applicants and petitioners with scheduled appointments and naturalization ceremonies impacted by this closure. When USCIS again resumes normal operations, USCIS will automatically reschedule ASC appointments due to the office closure and send new appointment letters in the mail.Effective midnight EST on Monday 16 March (04:00 GMT Tuesday 17 March), the travel ban is extended to the United Kingdom and Ireland.

The president has announced the suspension of entry as immigrants and non-immigrants for travelers of any nationality who have been in the Schengen Area in the previous 14 days. This does not apply to US citizens or permanent residents (green card holders) or their family members, or to C (transit) or D (sea crewmember) non- immigrants. This proclamation does not apply to persons aboard a flight scheduled to arrive in the United States that departed prior to 11:59 pm eastern daylight time on 13 March 2020. The president called it a 30-day travel ban in his speech, but the published presidential proclamation does not specify an end date for the suspension.

Foreign nationals (other than immediate family of US citizens, permanent residents, and flight crew) who have traveled in mainland China within 14 days of their arrival, will be denied entry into the United States.

Those planning trips to the United States who are resident in China, have traveled to China recently or intend to travel to China before entering the US are advised to postpone their US visa interview until 14 days after their departure from China.

US citizens who have been in Hubei province within 14 days of their return will be subject to up to 14 days of mandatory quarantine.

US citizens who have been in other areas of mainland China within 14 days of their return will undergo proactive entry health screening and up to 14 days of self-quarantine with health monitoring.

Foreign nationals (other than immediate family of US citizens, permanent residents, and flight crew) who have traveled in Iran within 14 days of their arrival, will be denied entry into the United States.

 

Tonga

Travelers are required to get their temperature checked, and go through a screening upon arrival. Suspected cases will be quarantined. Some countries may require travelers to fill out health questionnaires and submit them upon arrival.

 

Trinidad and Tobago

Passengers who have visited or transited through China, regardless of nationality, will be allowed entry only 14 days after leaving China.

 

Turkey

Effective 17 March, flights are suspended from and to Egypt, Ireland, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, UK and UAE. Effective 14 March, flights are suspended from and to Germany, France, Spain, Norway, Denmark, Belgium, Austria, Sweden, and Netherlands

Flights to and from China, Iran, Iraq, Italy and South Korea, and border crossings with Iran and Iraq, also remain suspended.

 

Ukraine

Effective 17 March, entry is suspended for two weeks for all foreign nationals. Foreign national residents and diplomatic staff are exempted. All regular flights are canceled.

 

Uruguay

Effective 20 March, all flights are suspended to and from Europe.

Effective 17 March, all sea, air and land travel to and from Argentina is suspended.

travelers arriving from China, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Iran, Spain, Italy, France and Germany will be subject to a mandatory 14-day quarantine.

 

Uzbekistan

Effective 16 March, all international air and rail traffic is suspended. Uzbekistani citizens who decide to return home will be placed in 14-day quarantine.

 

Vanuatu

Since 31 January, visitors from China (including Hong Kong and Macau) will be required to provide personal health certificates issued within the last 14 to 30 days after leaving a Chinese territory, otherwise they will be refused entry.

 

Venezuela

Effective 12 March, the government authorities have suspended flights from Europe and Colombia, and closed the borders with Colombia and Brazil.

 

Vietnam

Work authorization

Effective 17 March for two weeks, HCMC has suspended all new work permit applications.

Work permit applications for South Korean and Chinese nationals continue to be suspended nationwide.

In some other provinces of Vietnam (not applicable in Hanoi or HCMC), work permit applications have been suspended for all foreign nationals coming from an epidemic area which at the date of today include a large majority of countries around the word.

The original passport is required when submitting the work permit application (including initial and renewal applications) at HCMC labor department. It is still unclear as to how to proceed when the work permit application is lodged before applicant arrives in Vietnam. In other provinces, labor authorities request an explanation letter of the applicant’s travel schedule since 31 December 2019, signed and sealed by the host company.

In HCMC again, if the required medical check-up for the work permit was conducted before 11 February 2020, the applicant needs to obtain the health declaration report from Pasteur Institute in HCMC or re-do the medical check-up

at an authorized hospital (e.g., Raffles Clinic).

 

Vietnam (continued)

Immigration

Effective 18 March, citizens of ASEAN countries and other nationals who have visited ASEAN countries in the previous 14 days are subject to compulsory quarantine on arrival for 14 days.

Effective 18 March, visa application processing and issuance is suspended for all foreign nationals and for all purposes for 30 days.

Effective 15 March, for 30 days, entry is suspended for anyone who has traveled to or transited through the United Kingdom or the Schengen states in the previous 14 days.

Visa on Arrival is suspended temporarily for all foreign nationals. Effective 12 March, the Vietnamese authorities will suspend the visa exemption scheme for foreign nationals of eight EU countries and the UK, including those of Vietnamese origin. As a result, visa is required for British and all EU nationals to enter Vietnam. Visa endorsement must take place at the Vietnamese embassies and consulates abroad since the visa on arrival was also suspended. As of today, only visa applications for business and work purposes seem to be granted to EU nationals by the immigration department, but subject to a number of conditions such as a guarantee letter from the host company confirming no travels or transits in epidemic countries since 15 February.

Countries with more than 500 confirmed cases of COVID-19, or more than 50 new cases per day, can also expect to have visa exemptions to Vietnam suspended at this time.

The immigration departments have temporarily stopped granting visa on arrival (VOA) pre-approval letters for business and for all nationalities.

Visa exemption scheme for South Korean and all EU nationals is temporarily suspended until further notice.

 

Vietnam (continued)

Visa applications suspended for Chinese, South Korean, Italian, and Iranian nationals.

All passengers arriving in Vietnam, who have departed from either China South Korea, Italy or Iran within the previous 14 days will not be allowed to enter Vietnam or will be subject to government quarantine.

All travelers arriving in Vietnam are required to complete a health declaration form, available online. The health declaration form is also required for all visa renewals.

Local authorities have taken temperature readings on arrival (ports, airports, border crossing points). People arriving at check-ups with fever upon arrival are likely to be placed under quarantine at a medical designated health facilities or forced home quarantine. Vietnam Airlines has begun to screen all passengers at European airports leaving for Vietnam.

 

Zambia

All travelers will have their temperatures checked and may be subject to additional medical screening. Suspected cases will be quarantined. Chinese passport holders and recent travelers to China may be required to complete a health questionnaire and provide it upon arrival.

 

Zimbabwe

All travelers will have their temperatures checked and may be subject to additional medical screening. Suspected

cases will be quarantined. Chinese passport holders and recent travelers to China may be required to complete a health questionnaire and provide it upon arrival.