Entry Policies Due to Covid-19 for Asia
Asia has been in the spotlight throughout the pandemic, primarily due to the first detected case in Wuhan, China. Asia is a vast continent, and so the outbreak has affected each country very differently. Cases have been reported in every country in the region, with the exception of North Korea and Turkmenistan.
India, Indonesia, Iran, and Turkey have had some of the highest case numbers in the region and the world and are still struggling to contain the spread of the virus to this day. Other countries, such as Bhutan, Singapore, and Vietnam, restricted travel very early on in 2020, and this has helped to minimize the impact of COVID-19 in these areas.
Due to the number of different countries you could visit in Asia, you'll find travel restrictions and requirements vary dramatically. While some countries are fully open to visitors already, others are restricted to just residents or neighboring countries.
Many people who visit Asia are required to transit through another country in the region to reach their final destination. If this is the case for you when planning a trip this year, ensure this is something that's possible at this current time to avoid a delay in your journey.
As a result of the attention Asia received early on in the pandemic, they are very strict regarding the entry of tourists to their countries. If you are planning a trip, ensure you follow the requirements for the individual country you are visiting. These may include a hotel quarantine, COVID-19 negative test, medical screenings, and a health declaration.
On top of that, you'll need to ensure you have a valid visa for traveling, as many of the countries have suspended issuing visas during the pandemic for tourism purposes. As with anywhere in the world, the safety and health of local citizens is the number one priority for each country's government.
By following the rules as you enter Asia, you'll look after the health of both yourself and anyone you interact with on your trip.
Afghanistan
Feb 18 2022 Many airlines that had served destinations in the country have halted operations due to the security situation: limited flights by Qatar Airways Mahan Air and Pakistan International Airlines are operating. Flights that may become available are highly susceptible to cancellation. Emergency humanitarian other repatriation diplomatic and cargo flights continue to operate. There is no known ban on entry for any travellers arriving by air. All land borders with Iran China Uzbekistan Tajikistan and Turkmenistan are closed. The Torkham and Spin Boldak-Chaman border crossings with Pakistan have been intermittently closed and opened since the Taliban takeover in August leaving thousands of travellers and refugees stranded along the border. Before travel Incoming travellers aged eight years and older must submit a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate issued within 72 hours of travel. There are no mandatory tests after arrival for incoming travellers. There is no known contact tracing app in Afghanistan. There are no mandatory quarantine requirements. All arrivals are advised to self-isolate at home for 14 days upon arrival if they do not show any symptoms. If you display any symptoms you are required to contact the Ministry of Public Health and seek care at a hospital. Officials made wearing face masks mandatory in public areas at airports and onboard flights. Following the complete Taliban takeover of the country thousands of foreigners and nationals were evacuated while many others fled the country through land border crossings: the situation remain uncertain as many others were stopped and assaulted by Taliban forces while attempting to exit. Previously under the United States-backed Ghani administration outbound travellers from Kabul were required to take a COVID-19 PCR test depending on the airlines. Outbound flights from Afghanistan to some countries such as Scotland and England also mandated travellers to possess a negative PCR result. Hard copy of a negative COVID-19 PCR test result were mandatory for check-in for these airlines. While Taliban authorities have not detailed any specific requirements to exit the country nationals have been requested to avoid non-essential travel out of Afghanistan due to the Omicron COVID-19 strain present in multiple other countries. Before exiting travellers from Afghanistan will also undergo a temperature check and be advised to quarantine if they register a high temperature indicative of COVID-19 symptoms. Lockdown-type restrictions imposed in 2020 and 2021 are no longer in effect and social distancing measures apply in most areas. There remains a lack of reliable information regarding possible local restrictions. Bus services in parts of the country including in Kabul remain limited. All lockdown measures have been lifted in the country as of 18 February 2022. Social distancing measures apply in public areas. There are no known gathering restrictions. Afghanistans underdeveloped healthcare infrastructure poor testing capabilities and porous borders mean the country is vulnerable and will continue to struggle to fully contain the outbreak in the near-term. Following a complete Taliban takeover of the country in mid-2021 Afghanistans already under-equipped healthcare is further strained by the impeded access for health supplies most of which depended on foreign aid which has been stalled since the Taliban takeover. Testing and vaccination rates dropped significantly across the country since August due to lack of vaccines and testing kits. Only about five hospitals in the country offer treatment for COVID-19 related cases. There also remains a dearth of reliable COVID-19-related information from authorities.
Armenia
Feb 15 2022 Yerevan Zvartnots International Airport (EVN/UDYZ) is open and limited commercial flights are operating. Foreign nationals are permitted to enter by land and air. Before travel All unvaccinated travellers must present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before entry. The certificate must be in Armenian English or Russian. Those who fail to present a certificate at the border will be required to take one at the port of entry and self-quarantine until they obtain a negative result. Travellers arriving from Russia must present certificate of a negative COVID-19 test or vaccination obtained through the 39:Traveling without COVID-1939: (??????????? ??? COVID-19) mobile app. The app can be obtained here play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.nocovid19.suamp:hl=enamp:gl=US. Transiting air passengers must present a negative PCR test or proof of full vaccination against COVID-19. There is no national contact tracing app. Travellers who do not present a negative COVID-19 test result at the border must take a COVID-19 test after arrival and self-quarantine until a negative result becomes available. Face masks must be worn in enclosed public spaces including shops and public transport (including at train stations and onboard intercity and international trains). Violators of the order are subject to fines of up to AMD10000 (USD21). Authorities imposed a mask-wearing mandate outdoors nationwide. Children below the age of five people with chronic conditions and those who are cycling exercising eating and smoking are exempt from this requirement. A modified nationwide quarantine regime remains in place through 20 June. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: Authorities have announced plans to make it mandatory for people to produce certified proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test result to access some public venues nationwide including restaurants bars museums and concert halls in the near-term. Employers must administer weekly testing every seven days for unvaccinated employees. A health pass proving full vaccination recovery or a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test result no older than 72 or 24 hours is required to access some public venues nationwide including restaurants bars museums and cinemas. Covid Pass availability: Proof of vaccination recovery or a negative Covid-19 test is accepted to access certain venues. The test can be a PCR administered within 72 hours or an antigen rapid test administered within 24 hours. The certificate is accepted in both paper and electronic format. Children under 18 as well as pregnant women and individuals holding a medical certificate are exempt from the requirement. The pass can be obtained from the Armed eHealth App here apps.apple.com/mt/app/armed-ehealth/id1507904918 or play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sylex.armedamp:hl=enamp:gl=US. COVID-19 cases were on the rise as of February following a four month dip in infections.
Azerbaijan
Feb 16 2022 The availability of international flights is limited by an ongoing entry ban. Operations at Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD/UBBB) are restricted to select repatriation flights for citizens and long-term residents. Authorities will resume flights between Kazakhstans Almaty International Airport (ALA/UAAA) and Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD/UBBB) in Baku. Azerbaijans Azerbaijan Airlines will resume flights on 6 November whereas Kazakhstans Air Astana on 7 November. The country is closed to entry by all modes of transport except for special flights transit and freight traffic. Only selected categories - citizens of Azerbaijan students holders of a work or residency permit family members of Azerbaijani nationals and diplomatic personnel - are permitted to board special flights to the country. All overland border crossings are closed. Nationals of the United States (US) the United Kingdom (UK) Bahrain Hungary Israel Qatar Russia Turkey the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Canada Czech Republic Germany Luxembourg Belgium Denmark Spain Sweden the Netherlands Austria Greece Ireland Malta Poland Portugal Serbia Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Switzerland China Estonia Finland France Hong Kong Croatia Iceland Italy Latvia Lithuania Malaysia Saudi Arabia Japan Argentina Australia Brazil Brunei South Korea Chile Ecuador Cambodia Costa Rica Cuba Kuwait Kazakhstan Maldives Mexico Morocco Mongolia Montenegro Norway Oman Panama El Salvador Uruguay New Zealand Jordan Cyprus Ukraine Romania Belarus Albania Dominican Republic Philippines Georgia India Indonesia Iran Columbia Moldova Uzbekistan Pakistan Peru Tajikistan Thailand Tunisia Turkmenistan and Venezuela are permitted entry by special flights to the country provided that they present a valid proof of vaccination or recovery from COVID-19 in addition to a negative COVID-19 test result. Before travel Travellers eligible to enter without proof of vaccination or recovery certificate must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result that was issued no later than 72 hours prior to departure. A QR code on the certificate is desirable and will allow for faster passage through border control. Foreign nationals who fail to present the certificate will be refused entry. An additional test may be required on arrival. All travellers coming from the list of countries exempt from entry ban are allowed to enter with valid proof of vaccination or recovery in addition to a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before entry. e-Tabib is an optional contact tracing app available in Azeri only. From 2 June 2021 a quarantine requirement was abolished. The statewide mandate to wear a mask in outdoor public spaces was lifted but remains mandatory in enclosed public spaces metro stations and onboard trains. Exiting the country is not permitted with the exception of special charter flights and transit traffic. Departing air passengers are subject to mandatory testing at a laboratory accredited by the State Health Agency (TABIB). The special quarantine regime is in effect until 1 March 2022. While most establishments and services are open Azerbaijan remains closed to most international travellers. Hospitality establishments are permitted to open at 06:00-24:00 daily. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: People who are 18 years or older must present proof of vaccination or recovery from COVID-19 within the past six months for either to enter catering facilities hotels and large shopping centres. A fine of up to AZN400 (USD235) can be imposed for non-compliance. The use of public transport between cities and regions will be limited to people who have at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine: a second dose will be required from 1 November 2021. Travellers between Baku and Sumqayit as well as those aged 18 and under are exempt. Covid Pass availability: The pass is available to those who can prove vaccination. The pass can be obtained from the myGov app here play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=az.gov.my or apps.apple.com/az/app/mygov/id1533956540. COVID-19 infections were decreasing as of December 2021 partial measures remain in place. A successful vaccine drive has resulted in approximately 46 percent of the population receiving two doses of the COVID vaccine as of February.
Bahrain
Feb 21 2022 Only travellers with COVID-19-related symptoms are subject to testing. A quarantine requirement was lifted for all travellers including unvaccinated travellers as of 20 February. Yellow level restrictions which are level two on a four-level traffic light system remain in place. As part of Green Level restrictions are in place as of 15 February allowing all establishments to operate without capacity restrictions while the Green Shield pass proving full vaccination is no longer be required to enter such facilities. Masks remain mandatory in indoor places. Health officials continue to detect hundreds of new cases on a daily basis however authorities have so far refused to implement a lockdown or curfew like many of the other Gulf states and instead have opted for a social distancing program and the closure of non-essential businesses. As of mid-February at least 69 percent of the population have been fully vaccinated. International flights to Bahrain continue to operate at a reduced rate. Diplomats UN personnel residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states holders of electronic visas and those eligible for visas on arrival are allowed entry into Bahrain. The King Fahd Causeway connecting Bahrain with Saudi Arabia is open. All arrivals must download the BeAware Bahrain app which will be used for contact tracing and to monitor compliance during self-quarantine. The app also supports a vaccine passport for vaccinated travellers. Face masks are mandatory in public spaces including inside shops and on public transport and those violating the order are subject to a fine. Domestic flights and public transportation is operating. There are no restrictions on intercity or interstate travel.
Bhutan
Feb 13 2022 Bhutans poor healthcare system is not well-equipped to deal with a widespread outbreak. Hence authorities are relying heavily on international travel restrictions and dynamic local measures to prevent infections. Following a spike of cases in 2021 the spread of the infection has slowed down and most internal restrictions were lifted in 2022. However international border restrictions are unlikely to ease in the near-term given the global spread of the Omicron variant of COVID-19. Most commercial flights to the country are suspended. Repatriation and humanitarian flights are exempt. Visas on arrival are suspended until further notice. Foreign nationals need to apply for permission prior to entry. Only returning Bhutanese nationals are allowed entry. The re-entry of foreign travellers holding valid visas work permits or other immigration permits to Bhutan with travel history to any COVID-19 affected countries is suspended until further notice. Before travel Authorities announced that all foreign nationals eligible to enter Bhutan must provide a negative PCR test for COVID-19 on arrival: the test must be issued by a certified laboratory and dated within 72 hours of departure. Migrant workers from India are allowed to provide a negative rapid antigen test certificate dated within 72 hours of departure for entry. Upon arrival Permitted travellers will be tested upon arrival. After arrival Permitted travellers will be subject to after arrival PCR tests on Day 3 or 5 and again on Day 13 or 14. Those who are assigned 21 days quarantine are tested again on the day before being released from quarantine on day 20 or 21. All testing fees are borne by travellers. Druk Trace is a mandatory contact tracing mobile app for all residents to be used onboard public transport at businesses and other public areas nationwide. The app can be downloaded for Apple and Android devices. All travellers including Bhutanese nationals who are permitted to enter the country but are not fully vaccinated will be subject to mandatory quarantine for 21 days at a government-designated hotel. Fully vaccinated travellers are subject to a reduced quarantine period of 14 days. Travellers have to pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) which costs about 65 USD per night. However passengers will be given a discount on day 8 and 14 of their quarantine period amounting to about 900 USD per person at the end of institutional quarantine. Regional task forces are called to ensure strict compliance of safety protocols which includes the proper use of face masks among other things. Authorities have classified movement restrictions by red yellow and green zones with red zones having the highest level of restrictions. High-risk areas with easing restrictions are subject to extensive testing. Inter-district movement and large gatherings are banned nationwide until 30 January amid an increase in recent cases. Restrictions on movement are in place in Samdrup Jongkhar nightly from 21:00 local time until further notice: businesses are required to close by 20:30. Officials eased movement restriction allowing non-essential intra-megazone movement in Thimphu until further notice as of 9 February. Inter-district travel are allowed between COVID-19 Green designated zones. Those in Yellow and Red zones must undergo quarantine or testings to be allowed inter-district travel. Green zone areas are Gasa Haa Trongsa Bumthang Trashigang Mongar Trashiyangtse Lhuntse and Zhemgang districts. Yellow zone is designated for Paro district and adjacent villages. Under yellow zone restrictions non-essential movement within the zone are allowed between 05:00-18:00 local time and inter-district travel is restricted until further notice. Red zone areas are Thimphu parts of Sarpang Samtse Pemagatshel (Nanglam) Punakha most of Wangduephrodrang Chukha (Phuentsholing) Samdrupjongkhar Tsirang and Dagana districts as well as Chang and Kawang villages. Domestic travellers from high-risk to low-risk areas will be quarantined at government facilities for seven days. Foreign nationals are banned from entering Samdrup Jongkhar until further notice. Most business establishments may operate at half capacity until 22:00 local time. In Samdrup Jongkhar most businesses and services must close nightly by 20:30 and are limited to 50 percent capacity. All types of gatherings will remain banned and places of worship and fitness centres closed until futher notice. Yellow zone is designated for Paro district and adjacent villages. Under yellow zone measures only government-approved essential shops are allowed to open from 09:00-18:00 local time until further notice. Green zone areas are Gasa Haa Trongsa Bumthang Trashigang Mongar Trashiyangtse Lhuntse and Zhemgang districts.Under green zone measures all shops may upen until 21:00 local time effective until further notice.
Brunei
Feb 19 2022 Most commercial flights remain suspended with Royal Brunei Airlines operating flights on a significantly reduced schedule until further notice. Select humanitarian repatriation diplomatic and cargo flights and those transporting essential workers and long-term residents are exempt. Limited flights are to continue with Hong Kong Kuala Lumpur London Manila Melbourne and Singapore. International land and sea borders are closed to most foreign nationals except for travellers exempted for employment official pre-approved business for the vaccinated education medical treatment and spouses/dependents of Brunei residents effective until 28 February. Foreign nationals arriving from Botswana the Kingdom of eSwatini Lesotho Malawi Mozambique Namibia South Africa and Zimbabwe must apply for travel permission prior to departure. Essential travellers who hold a valid work permit foreign worker license or business/professional visit visas from India Nepal Sri Lanka Pakistan Bangladesh and Indonesia can enter. All travellers including those who were granted entry before travel suspension must submit an application form via www.pmo.gov.bn/travelportal/Home.aspx before departure. Fully vaccinated travellers who stayed for in Travel Green List countries for the past 14 days before departure are allowed to enter Brunei for non-essential purposes from 13 January: however these travellers must provide a negative PCR test report issued 48 hours before departure. As of 10 February there are no countries listed under the Travel Green List scheme. Before travel Foreign nationals who are granted an Entry Travel Pass or those qualified from the Travel Green List countries must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result no older than 48 hours prior to departure. After arrival Travellers must pay BND350 (USD255) for the mandatory COVID-19 test before entry. Fully vaccinated travellers must get tested on day 1 with an Antigen rapid test and on day 5 with a COVID-19 PCR test after arrival to Brunei. Unvaccinated travellers must undergo a PCR test on day 8. An antigen rapid test will also be required from all outgoing travellers whose result cannot be older than 24 hours. Those eligible under the Travel Green List scheme must undergo another PCR test on day 1 and an Antigen rapid test on day 3. As of 10 February there are no countries listed under the Travel Green List scheme. BruHealth is a mandatory contact tracing mobile app which must be used by all owners of and visitors to driving schools gyms and fitness centres indoor and outdoor sports facilities golf courses restaurants cafes food courts/stalls and markets where a QR code generated by the app will be scanned by customers at these establishments. The app can be downloaded for Apple and Android devices. Bruneians and residents returning from abroad are subject to mandatory quarantine at a government-designated facility. Travellers must prove that they are able to pay for the costs of their accommodations and tests. Upon arrival unvaccinated international travellers must undergo at least 10 days of quarantine at a government-designated hotel or facility. Travellers who are fully vaccinated but not eligible under the Travel Green Countries scheme must quarantine in a designated facility or hotel until a negative PCR test result taken on Day 5 is available. Fully vaccinated travellers under the Travel Green List Country scheme must undergo quarantine at a government-approved hotel or facility until a negative after-arrival test result is available. As of 10 February there are no countries listed under the Travel Green List scheme. Facemasks were mandatory in mosques during prayers and recommended in other indoor and crowded areas. Citizens and residents who have to leave the country for essential work study and emergency purposes need approval from the Prime Ministers office by emailing. travelapplicationjpm.gov.bn. An antigen rapid test will also be required from all outgoing travellers whose result cannot be older than 24 hours. Authorities requires residents and expat workers to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 in order to exit the country. A partial lockdown was lifted as part of a transitional phase and easing of restrictions from 19 November 2021. A nightly curfew remains in place until 14 March. Effective until 14 March a nightly 00:00-04:00 local time curfew is in effect. Under the transition Endemic Plan from 15 December 2021 to 14 March: non-essential businesses including restaurants markets and sports facilities are allowed to resume operations with 75 percent capacity: gatherings will be capped at 75 percent capacity or 300 attendees whichever is lower. Only fully vaccinated people are allowed to visit most public spaces and private gatherings. Unvaccinated persons are allowed to enter public settings including government or privately owned premises provided they have a negative antigen test result for COVID-19 no older than 48 hours. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: Individuals must present a QR code confirming their full vaccination via the BruHealth application to enter public establishments including workplaces restaurants stores and other public facilities. Covid Pass availability: Through the BruHealth mobile contact tracing app. Authorities have implemented strict travel bans lockdowns curfews and social distancing measures to tackle the COVID-19 outbreak in Brunei. These measures have helped prevent a widespread community transmission of infections. Authorities are unlikely to ease international travel bans in the near-term due to widespread outbreaks ongoing in neighbouring countries in the region.
Cambodia
Feb 19 2022 Under the Safe and Green tourism campaign authorities approved the increase of international flight frequencies from end of January. However many international commercial flights are still suspended except for repatriation and critical services. Lanmei Airline resumed some flights between Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH/VDPP) and Bangkoks Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK/VTBS) in Thailand from 13 November 2021. Cambodia Airways also resumed some of its Phnom Penh-Bangkok flights from 17 November 2021. Bangkok Airways provide two daily flights between Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH/VDPP) and Bangkoks Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK/VTBS) from 1 February. Philippine Airlines resumed some flights between Manilas Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL/RPLL) in the Philippines and Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH/VDPP). International flights from and to Ho Chi Minh Citys Tan Son Nhat (SGN/VVTS) have also resumed operation from 1 January. International entries via waterways have been suspended and cruise ships have been banned entry to Cambodia. All visa-on-arrival services have been suspended: visitors looking to enter Cambodia must apply for a visa at Cambodian diplomatic missions abroad or via online www.evisa.gov.kh/. All arrivals are subject to a further health assessment at the airport and unvaccinated travellers who are subject to quarantine have to pay a USD2000 deposit upon arrival (except for Visa K foreign passport holders who are also Cambodian nationals) for associated costs. Sponsored travellers such as foreign investors and businesspeople are waived this fee but the sponsor company or organisation must commit to paying hospitalisation and treatment costs and must request for an online sponsorship at the Cambodian governments Business Registration website: www.registrationservices.gov.kh: however sponsored people will also be asked to quarantine at government facilities if they are not fully vaccinated. Starting 15 November 2021 fully vaccinated travellers are exempt from quarantine requirements provided that they present proof of both vaccination and negative test result for COVID-19. However travellers from Angola Botswana Eswatini Lesotho Malawi Mozambique Namibia South Africa Zambia and Zimbabwe were subject to quarantine restrictions. Land waterways and air borders are closed with Thailand until further notice (exceptions will be only made for diplomats government workers students and official guests of the state). International travellers who are fully vaccinated are allowed to stay for five days in Sihanoukville and Koh Rong Preah Sihanouk province and Dara Sakor Resort Koh Kong province without hotel quarantine restrictions from 30 November 2021: travellers will be subject to a rapid COVID-19 test upon arrival and can travel outside these zones if they test negative for COVID-19 on day five after arrival. Before travel Those eligible for entry require a PCR test result no older than 72 hours proving that they do not have COVID-19. Upon arrival Upon arrival all travellers must wait in official facilities to get tested again for the virus and receive test results. Travellers who visited Angola Botswana Eswatini Lesotho Malawi Mozambique Namibia South Africa Zambia and Zimbabwe within 14 days of arrival will be subject to a rapid test as well. Symptomatic and unvaccinated travellers are required an additional PCR test. After arrival Unvaccinated travellers will be tested again on day 13 before being allowed to exit quarantine on day 14. Travellers who visited Angola Botswana Eswatini Lesotho Malawi Mozambique Namibia South Africa Zambia and Zimbabwe within 14 days of arrival will be given a PCR test on day six of their seven-day quarantine at a hotel or a government-assigned location upon entry. There is no national contact tracing app. Businesses are required to track staff and patrons using a QR code app stopcovid.gov.kh Starting 15 November 2021 vaccinated travellers are exempt from quarantine provided that they present proof of both vaccination and negative test result for COVID-19. However if a passenger from a flight is tested positive other travellers may be required to quarantine for five days in a hotel or place of residence. For unvaccinated travellers or those who test positive must quarantine at a registered hotel under government supervision for 14 days. All accomodation food and medical costs during quarantine will be borne by the traveller. Travellers who visited Angola Botswana Eswatini Lesotho Malawi Mozambique Namibia South Africa Zambia and Zimbabwe within 14 days will undergo seven days of quarantine at a hotel or at a government assigned facility. If they are unvaccinated they will undergo 14 days of quarantine. Transit passengers medical personnel and patients are exempt from the quarantine period. Facemasks are compulsory in public areas including in shops restaurants supermarkets banks and other commercial areas. Effective 5 October 2021 all travellers inbound to or outbound from Phnom Penh must wear facemasks this rule applies for all passengers with public transports or private vehicles. Failure to comply would be penalized with a fine up to USD250. Restrictions on some businesses and social distancing measures remain in place in Phnom Penh. Essential economic activities have resumed and social distancing measures apply in all areas. Travel through lockdown areas is only permitted for emergency purposes or essential workers transport of factory workers travel to hospitals and other travel with a permit. There are no lockdown areas as of 19 February. Local authorities also set up multiple health checkpoints in the border areas of Siem Reap province including in parts of Chi Kraeng Kralanh Srei Snam and Varin districts. Inter-city buses on lines 12 3 4A and 4 B and ferry services including between Russey Keo Park and Takhmao stations are operating in Phnom Penh. All travellers must show proof of being fully vaccinated scan the Stop COVID QR code to access services and wear a facemask. Authorities no longer impose localised lockdowns for active COVID-19 cases in markets places of business or any other places nationwide. The COVID-19 task force instead designates persons tested positive for COVID-19 to be treated in health facilities. Under Red Zones restrictions gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited and most non-essential businesses including entertainment cultural and nightlife venues are closed. Currently there are no areas designated as Red Zones or Orange Zones. On 1 November 2021 authorities allowed all sectors to resume operations across the country. Schools theatres and museums were also reopened. Phnom Penh Gatherings are capped at seven people per table in weddings restaurants entertainment venues and other hospitality venues from 11 February. Effective 30 October 2021 museums cinemas and other artistic venues have reopened at 50 percent capacity. Other COVID-19 related restrictions remain in the capital. Gatherings remain limited to 50 people except for certain occasions including funerals and government officials meetings. Non-essential businesses including bars karaoke and nightclubs are allowed to resume operations: individuals must present certified proof of vaccination to enter these venues. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: Members of the public over the age of six must obtain a COVID-19 certificate confirming vaccination against the virus in order to attend events and access hospitality establishments markets schools and other public venues including public transport. Effective from early February businesses may only admit entry those who are fully vaccinated and those who have received a booster dose after four months since the completion of COVID-19 primary vaccine dose. Covid Pass availability: COVID-19 certificates must be obtained from licensed vaccine providers the Ministry of Health or the Ministry of National Defence. Proof of vaccination can be integrated within the Stop COVID QR code. Authorities reintroduced some internal restrictions in mid-2021 due to increasing COVID-19 virus infection rates. The healthcare system is incapable of handling a widespread outbreak. Authorities have stepped up COVID-19 awareness drives and health screening measures at transportation hubs to help contain the current outbreak hence social distancing restrictions are likely to remain in the near-term even as most business operations resume. The situation of COVID-19 is worsening countrywide with the third highest daily Omicron variant tolls recorded mid February after seeing zero COVID-19 cases a month prior.
East Timor
Feb 19 2022 Regular commercial passenger flights through the country were allowed to resume after a state of emergency expired on 28 November 2021. The land border with Indonesia earlier opened for two hours once a week but is now closed except for emergency or essential purposes. Unauthorised border crossers are fined USD 30-250 as well as necessary expenses for their quarantine. Before travel Travellers need prior approval from the Ministry of Health and must also submit a negative PCR COVID-19 test certificate dated within 72 hours prior to travel. After arrival All vaccinated travellers must undergo a test within 48 hours after arrival to avoid quarantine. There is no national contact tracing app. Unvaccinated East Timor nationals and other travellers from abroad are required to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival at a government facility. Those with prior approval from the Ministry of Health may be allowed to quarantine at home for 14 days. Fully vaccinated travellers are exempt from quarantine requirements. Travellers with invalid health documents or is non-compliant will be required to undergo 14 days quarantine as well. The wearing of face masks in public areas including on public transport is compulsory. Those looking to exit the country are subjected to temperature checks and other health screening measures before being allowed to board departing flights. Limited measures such as social distancing are in effect. Religious political social and cultural gatherings of more than 10 people as well as other large gatherings are allowed with social distancing protocols while some non-essential businesses remain closed. Travellers are obliged to adhere to social distancing rules to avoid gatherings of more than two people with less than two metres of distance on public roads. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: Full vaccination is required when using public transport. Covid Pass availability: Information on valid proof of vaccination is not available. Authorities have tackled the COVID-19 outbreak in East Timor by periodically implementing localised lockdowns inter-district travel restrictions and international travel bans. Restrictions have been slowly eased in many areas throughout 2021 to allow for the resumption of public transportation and some commercial activities while people have been urged to work-from-home. A reimposing of restrictions cannot be ruled out in the near-term amid a resurgence of cases since early 2022.
Georgia
Feb 19 2022 International flights are predominantly available on routes between Tbilisi (TBS/UGTB) and major hubs in Europe in addition to destinations in the Middle East and Asia. Several airlines including Georgian Airways Eurowings Kuwait Airways Lufthansa Qatar Airways and Turkish Airlines are also operating flights to and from the country. Travellers who present proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 are permitted entry from any country. Nationals and residents of European Union (EU) member states Albania Andorra Armenia Azerbaijan Bahrain Belarus Bosnia and Herzegovina Canada China Iceland Iraq Israel Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lebanon Liechtenstein Moldova Monaco Montenegro North Macedonia Norway Oman Qatar Russia San Marino Saudi Arabia Serbia South Korea Switzerland Tajikistan Turkey Turkmenistan Ukraine the United Arab Emirates (UAE) the United Kingdom (UK) the United States (US) and Uzbekistan are permitted entry regardless of vaccination status. Diplomats and their family members family members of Georgian nationals those arriving as part of a humanitarian mission workers transporting goods by international road or rail traffic air crew members and people holding refugee status in Georgia are exempt from entry restrictions. Before travel Unvaccinated travellers arriving by air must present a negative PCR test no older than 72 hours before entry. The test result must be issued in English Georgian or Russian. Travellers arriving by land or sea must present a negative COVID-19 test regardless of recovery or vaccination status. Transiting passengers must present a negative PCR test that was taken within 72 hours of arrival. After arrival Unvaccinated travellers must take a second PCR test on the third day of their stay at their own expense. Georgian nationals who arrive without a negative COVID-19 test must quarantine at their accommodation or a designated facility for eight days. Face masks are mandatory in both indoor and outdoor spaces including public transport. Social distancing measures are in place. Public events are permitted with sanitary measures. A COVID-19 related green pass is no longer required to access public venues nationwide. Georgias COVID-19 incidence rates remain however authorities have eased restrictions nationwide.
North Korea
Feb 18 2022 All commercial passenger flights to the country remain suspended until further notice. All international borders are closed to foreign nationals. A bridge to China in Saebyul county of North Hamgpyong Province remains open for emergencies. In late January there were reports of a freight train carrying back goods to Uiju County North Pyongan province from China in what is seen as a possible and gradual reopening of borders due to lack of essential supplies. There is no known COVID-19 test certificate requirement for entry. Travellers may be tested upon arrival but there are no known testing requirements for travellers before or after arrival. There is no known national contact tracing app. All travellers returning from abroad have been required to quarantine at a government facility for 30 days upon arrival. The wearing of face masks is compulsory in public. While there are no known special exit requirements reliable information from North Korea is limited. Travellers may require government permission to exit the country as its borders remain closed. Lockdowns and movement restrictions have been periodically enforced in multiple towns with suspected cases. There have been periodic reports of ongoing lockdowns in areas bordering China (North Pyongan Jagang Yanggang and North Hangyeong provinces) following detection of illegal entries since early 2021. Authorities also tend to enforce strict lockdown and quarantine measures in areas with suspected cases. Authorities have banned travel between provinces in the country until further notice. Reliable information is limited on entry-exit restrictions in border areas. Travel certificates for businesses and other permitted purposes must be obtained from local authorities for inter-municipal travel. A medical check-up verification proving that you carry no diseases is also necessary for travel. Authorities have ordered people with fevers of 37.5 degrees Celsius or higher to quarantine at home for 15 days. If fever continues after quarantine people were transferred to state quarantine facilities. Social distancing measures apply in all public areas. Authorities have forbidden street vending closed markets and mandated morning temperature checks among other measures across districts in the border zone of North Hamgyong province. Authorities in North Korea confirmed the first imported case of COVID-19 in mid-2020 after denying the presence of any cases for several months. Lack of reliable information by local authorities makes it hard to access a credible medical assessment of the COVID-19 outbreak and any related measures in the country. Authorities are prone to enforce strict lockdown and quarantine measures in areas with suspected cases and in areas bordering China upon detection of illegal entries. Travel bans on foreign nationals are unlikely to ease in the country in the near term due to ongoing outbreaks in neighbouring countries.
Oman
Feb 16 2022 Commercial flights were allowed to resume. Travellers from all countries are permitted entry but any person aged 18 years and above must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least two weeks prior to arrival in order to enter the country via land sea and airports. Only Omani citizens and their families will be permitted entry even if they are not fully vaccinated. The vaccination requirement is an addition to the mandatory PCR test before or on arrival. Before travel A PCR test dated within 72 hours is required for those arriving on flights shorter than eight hours. Those arriving through land must provide a negative result of a PCR test taken within 72 hours before their arrival to enter. Travellers must register and upload test results on the Tarassud+ mobile application. Travellers arriving without a pre-travel PCR test result will be subject to a test on arrival at their own expense and quarantine until results are available. Travellers are required to present a negative PCR test no older than 96 hours for flights longer than eight hours. Travellers must register and upload test results on the Tarassud+ mobile application. Travellers arriving without a pre-travel PCR test result will be subject to a test on arrival at their own expense and quarantine until results are available. Passengers transiting through Oman on long-haul flights more than eight hours in duration must present a negative PCR test no older than 96 hours before arrival in Oman. Passengers transiting through Oman on flights shorter than eight hours must present a negative PCR test no older than 72 hours before arrival in Oman. Upon arrival All unvaccinated Omani nationals must take a PCR test on arrival at the airport. They will also need to self-quarantine for 7 days and undergo a PCR test on day 8 to exit isolation. All travellers should download and start the registration process on the Tarassud + prior to arrival. Only unvaccinated Omani nationals and their families who take a PCR test on arrival must self-quarantine for 7 days with an electronic tracking bracelet. They must take a PCR test on day 8 and if tested positive must quarantine for an additional 10 days. Travellers who comply with pre-arrival testing guidelines are exempt. Face masks must be worn in public places including on public transport. Anybody showing symptoms on departure may be prevented from leaving the country. Partial measures are in force nationwide to curb the spread of the virus. A nationwide curfew was previously in place. Domestic flights and commercial helicopter flights were allowed to resume. Intercity bus services were allowed to resume. Travel between governorates is permitted. All gatherings in public places including marriages and mourning ceremonies are banned until further notice. Limitations on workplace attendance were lifted. Restaurants cafes commercial complexes trade outlets and public facilities can operate at half capacity but access is only allowed with a Covid pass. Mosques are also operating at 50 percent capacity. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: Vaccination against COVID-19 is mandatory to enter government offices shopping malls restaurants and private sector facilities across the country. Covid Pass availability: Vaccination status can be presented on the Tarassud+ mobile application. The app is available on the App Store and Play Store. Authorities have periodically imposed curfews lockdowns and travel bans to help limit the spread of COVID-19. About 60 percent of the population have been fully vaccinated as of mid-February as cases gradually decrease.
Palestine State
Feb 17 2022 The King Hussein (Allenby) Bridge crossings between Jordan and the West Bank is currently closed. The Rafah border crossing with Egypt is open. Special security permits are required to enter Gaza from Egypt. Border crossings with Israel in the West Bank and Gaza are closed to foreign travellers: urgent humanitarian cases are permitted entry. Before travel Travellers entering the West Bank via the King Hussein (Allenby) Bridge crossing are required to take a test within 72 hours of departure. Upon arrival Travellers entering Gaza via the Erez and Rafah crossings are required to take a test on arrival. Travellers entering Israel from the West Bank are required to take a test on arrival. All travellers entering the West Bank via the King Hussein (Allenby) Bridge may also be subjected to a PCR test on arrival. Travellers testing negative on arrival in Gaza will be quarantined for seven days while those with a positive result will be subject to 21 days in isolation. Travellers arriving in the West Bank via Allenby Bridge are required to quarantine at home for 14 days or 10 days if subject to two negative PCR tests - one upon arrival at the checkpoint and a second one on the 9th day of quarantine. Those unable to quarantine at home will be required to quarantine at a hotel. Vaccinated travellers and those who have recovered from COVID-19 are exempt from quarantine requirements. Individuals are advised to wear face masks in the West Bank but they are required to do so in Gaza. A state of emergency allowing authorities to impose curfews and lockdowns remains in place in the West Bank and Gaza. Authorities did not immediately announce which restrictions will remain in effect following recent anti-Israel protests and fighting between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. West Bank A state of emergency allowing authorities to impose lockdown measures is in effect across the West Bank. Previous measures included a full lockdown on Fridays in the West Bank. In areas under lockdown travel outside ones neighbourhood is restricted. Previous measures in the West Bankinclude the closure of all businesses on Fridays except pharmacies and bakeries. Salons social clubs restaurants cafes banks offices and shops were allowed to reopen at 50 percent capacity. Weddings and funeral gatherings are prohibited. In Gaza all public gatherings are banned. Wedding and funeral receptions are also prohibited. Authorities in the West Bank and Gaza have imposed different restrictions in areas under their control depending upon the epidemiological situation. Efforts aimed at combatting the spread of COVID-19 have been complicated due to violent unrest and conflict between Israel and militants in Gaza. A vaccination drive is underway with 36.6 percent of the population vaccinated as of mid-February.
Qatar
Feb 17 2022 Doha Hamad International Airport (DOH/OTHH) remains open and is operating at a reduced capacity while international flights are gradually resuming. Unvaccinated foreign nationals travelling from Bangladesh Egypt India Nepal Pakistan and the Philippines are banned. Before travel All inbound foreign national travellers excluding vaccinated Qatari citizens residents and GCC citizens must present negative results of COVID-19 tests taken from medical centres approved by authorities of departure countries within 72 hours prior to arrival. Travellers entering via the Abu Samra crossing with Saudi Arabia must present a negative certificate for COVID-19 dated within 72 hours. Travellers who are fully vaccinated with Sinopharm will be required to undergo antigen testing upon arrival. Upon arrival Vaccinated foreign nationals arriving from red countries are required to undergo a PCR test on arrival at their quarantine hotel. After arrival Vaccinated Qatari citizens residents and GCC citizens from green countries above the age of 4 are required to undergo a PCR test within 36 hours of arrival. Those who are not fully vaccinated and arriving from green countries are required to undergo seven days of self-quarantine and a PCR test on day 6. Vaccinated Qatari citizens residents and GCC citizens from red countries are also required to undergo a PCR test within 36 hours of arrival. Unvaccinated citizens GCC citizens and residents (arriving from red countries) are required to undergo seven days of self-quarantine and a PCR test on the day 6 of quarantine. All vaccinated travellers (citizens and foreign nationals) from countries in the exceptional red list are required to undergo a PCR test within 36 hours of arrival at their quarantine hotel. Unvaccinated Qatari citizens residents and GCC citizens (arriving from the exceptional red list) are required to undergo seven days of hotel-quarantine and a PCR test on day 6. Foreign nationals who are not fully vaccinated arriving from exceptional red list countries are banned from entry. Foreign nationals who are not fully vaccinated arriving from green and red list countries are required to undergo seven days of quarantine and a PCR test on the sixth day. The list of countries in colour categories can be found at the bottom of the page here Citizens and residents were required to download the EHTERAZ app which uses GPS and Bluetooth to track COVID-19 patients and inform others in the vicinity of their status and location. A three tiered system came into force requiring travellers to quarantine for two or seven days based on origin country. The list of countries can be found at the bottom of the page here. All unvaccinated travellers from green countries must undergo a seven-day quarantine. Qatari citizens residents and GCC citizens as well as foreign nationals are required to undergo a seven-day home quarantine except Category B visa holders who must quarantine in a hotel. For green countries all fully vaccinated travellers who have been vaccinated by an approved vaccine (Pfizer Moderna Oxford-Astrazeneca and Johnsonamp:Johnson) for at least 14 days are exempt from quarantine. For red countries fully vaccinated Qatari citizens residents and GCC citizens who have been vaccinated by an approved vaccine (Pfizer Moderna Oxford-Astrazeneca and Johnsonamp:Johnson) for at least 14 days are exempt from quarantine. Fully vaccinated foreign nationals must undergo a two-day hotel quarantine (except first-degree relatives who are allowed a two-day self-quarantine). All unvaccinated foreign travellers must undergo a seven-day hotel quarantine (except first-degree relatives who are allowed a seven-day self-quarantine) while unvaccinated Qatari citizens residents and GCC citizens must undergo a seven-day self-quarantine. For countries on the exceptional red list authorities require unvaccinated Qatari citizens residents and GCC citizens to undergo a seven-day hotel quarantine. For vaccinated and recently recovered Qatari citizens residents and GCC citizens a two-day hotel quarantine is required. Travellers are allowed to leave quarantine once they test negative for COVID-19. Vaccinated foreign nationals are also required to undergo a two-day hotel quarantine if arriving from an exceptional red list country. Unvaccinated foreign nationals arriving from exceptional red list countries are banned from entering the country. Face masks are mandatory in closed public spaces except when driving alone inside a private vehicle: violators of the order face up to three years in prison or a QAR 200000 (USD 54929) fine. A face mask mandate was lifted in open public spaces except in markets exhibitions and events as well as in premises of mosques schools universities and hospitals. Officials entered a new phase of re-opening on 3 October 2021. Public transport is operating at 75 percent capacity. Private vehicles are capped at four people maximum except for people living in the same household. Rental boats tourist yachts and pleasure boats are capped at 50 percent or up to 40 fully vaccinated and five unvaccinated people. Government approval will be required for any public events to take place. Conferences exhibitions and events are capped at 75 percent in open venues and 50 percent in closed venues provided that 90 percent of the attendees are fully vaccinated. Those with an incomplete vaccination course must show a negative PCR or antigen test to enter. Public libraries and museums may operate at full capacity regardless of vaccination status. Children and unvaccinated individuals will be allowed access to commercial centres. Public gatherings are capped at 30 people. Private social gatherings are capped at 30 vaccinated or five unvaccinated people indoors and 50 or 10 people respectively outdoors. The EHTERAZ mobile application is mandatory when leaving the house for any reason. The application is available for Android devices and iOS devices. Weddings are capped at 30 percent capacity or up to 150 vaccinated or 20 unvaccinated people indoors and to 50 percent or up to 300 or 50 people outdoors. Theatres and cinemas are capped at 50 percent capacity provided that 75 percent of customers are vaccinated sports events at 75 percent capacity indoors and 50 percent outdoors for fully vaccinated people. Qatar Clean certified restaurants and cafes may operate at 75 or 100 percent capacity indoors and outdoors and other approved hospitality establishments at 50 or 40 percent capacity for fully vaccinated people. Souqs (markets) may operate daily with full capacity wholesale markets at 75 percent capacity for all people. Personal care services may operate at half capacity for fully vaccinated people amusement parts at 75 or 50 percent in outdoors and indoors respectively provided that 75 percent of the customers are vaccinated. Gyms and health clubs may operate at 75 percent capacity swimming pools at 75 and 50 percent outdoors and indoors respectively provided that 75 percent of the customers are fully vaccinated. Authorities have implemented the countrys reopening strategy after previously imposing restrictions on businesses and gatherings. Qatars infections are steadily decreasing. As of mid-February around 87 percent of the population has now been fully vaccinated.
Syria
Feb 17 2022 Regular passenger flights were allowed to resume through Damascus International Airport (DAM/OSDI) however flight options remain limited. Most land crossings remain closed to non-commercial traffic. The Bab al-Hawa Border Crossing between Turkeys Hatay province and Syrias Idlib government is closed on Sundays: the crossing will remain open for freight transport and humanitarian reasons. Before travel Passengers are required to present a PCR test no older than 96 hours prior to departure. Those arriving without a test will be able to take a test on arrival but will be required to quarantine until results are available. Fully vaccinated travellers with official certificates issued by health authorities are exempt from submitting a negative PCR test result for COVID-19 to enter the country. There is no national contact tracing app. Travellers arriving without a PCR test are required to take a test on arrival and stay at the Ebla Hotel (Airport Road - 4th Bridge) until PCR test results are available. Those who test positive will likely be subject to further quarantine. Masks and gloves must be worn in public in the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (Rojava). Masks are also mandatory in the rest of the country on public transport and inside markets and public institutions. There are no special requirements to exit the country. Distancing measures are in effect across most of Syria. Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (NES) officials have periodically imposed restrictions in Al-Hasakah Raqqa and Aleppo. The Syrian Interim Government (SIG) has also periodically imposed restrictions in opposition-held areas in northwestern Syria. While inter-governorate travel has resumed limited public transport services are available in Damascus and other major cities. Primary schools and universities are closed nationwide. The Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria has periodically imposed curfews and other restrictions in areas under its control. Syria has severely limited healthcare infrastructure to monitor and treat cases due to ongoing internal conflict. Authorities have lifted most domestic and international restrictions in an effort to resume economic activities. However a re-imposition of restrictions cannot be ruled out in the near-term if there is a sharp increase in COVID-19 cases. As of early February less than 6 percent of the population were fully vaccinated.
Tajikistan
Feb 20 2022 Most commercial passenger flights are suspended until further notice. Officials resumed flights with Kazakhstan the United Arab Emirates Russia Turkey Uzbekistan and Belarus. There is no entry ban for travellers arriving by plane. Citizens of 52 countries including Australia New Zealand Qatar Kuwait Canada Malaysia Germany South Korea Japan Denmark the United Arab Emirates the United State of America Indonesia Singapore Thailand and Spain are allowed to enter Tajikistan without a visa for up to 30 days. Land borders remain closed. Only bus services resumed between Khujand and Uzbekistans Tashkent: residents or nationals of Uzbekistan who have either family members in Tajikistan official invitations or authorisations as well as students are allowed to cross the land border. Before travel All incoming travellers have to provide a negative PCR test result issued within 72 hours before boarding their flights. Upon arrival All incoming travellers must take a COVID-19 test on arrival. Travellers who tested positive are subject to self-quarantine for ten days during which COVID-19 tests must be taken three times. Most travellers do not need to quarantine on arrival. Incoming travellers who test positive on arrival are subject to self-quarantine for ten days. A mask-wearing mandate is in effect in public spaces and on public transport nationwide. Fines of up to TJS287 (USD28) are applicable for anyone not wearing a mask. A negative PCR result is required to enable travellers to board outbound flights from Dushanbe International Airport. It was not immediately clear when travellers should undergo a PCR test to ensure its validity upon exit. Mask-wearing and social distancing measures are in place. Due to lack of adequate medical testing equipment and health screening measures Tajik authorities were unable to prevent a rapid spread of COVID-19 cases after the first few imported infections were detected in Dushanbe and Sughd in 2020. The countrys healthcare structure is very poor and unable to handle a widespread outbreak. Reliable information is also lacking due to government censorship of the media. From January-June 2021 authorities claimed a COVID-19 case absence in the country: however on 21 June 2021 officials confirmed the first active case of COVID-19. Public events and large gatherings continue to be allowed to take place.
Turkmenistan
Feb 20 2022 Turkmenistan Airlines passenger flights are suspended except for select repatriation and cargo flights. Flights between Turkmenabat and Russias Moscow operate sometimes. All borders including land borders with Iran Uzbekistan and Afghanistan are closed to foreign nationals. Only travellers for humanitarian aid and holders of multiple visas diplomatic and service category passports are allowed entry after receiving authorisation from the government. Before travel Incoming travellers must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result issued within 72 hours and a positive antibody test result issued within 72 hours prior to departure. Unvaccinated permitted incoming travellers are required to quarantine at government-approved facilities for 21 days upon arrival. Unvaccinated holders of diplomatic and service category passports must undergo a 14-day quarantine. Officials made face masks mandatory in public areas nationwide including airports. Individuals must wear only white face masks in public spaces in Ashgabat: those who wear non-white face masks are subject to administrative fines of up to TMT50 (USD14). There are restrictions for citizens to exit the country. However information about a ban on exit for foreign travellers was not immediately available. Lockdown measures imposed in Lebap region while non-essentail businesses are closed nationwide including in Asghabat. Movements of residents are restricted between regions. Lebap region is under a lockdown. Non-essential travel to and out of the Lebap region are banned while flights between Dasoguz Airport and Turkmenabat International Airport are suspended and roads between Lebaps Farab and Hojambaz districts are closed. Sanitary checkpoints are established around major cities including in Ashgabat. A negative pre-departure test result for COVID-19 or certified proof of vaccination is required for those who travel between regions. Only essential domestic travel by plane from Ashgabat to other wilayahs (provinces) is allowed: the purpose of essential travel can be funerals weddings treatment of serious illness business trips or other emergency situations. On 15 February domestic flights of Turkmenistan Airlines between Ashgabat Airport and Dasoguz Airport Mary Airport Turkmenabat Airport Kerki Airport Turkmenbasy Airport partially resumed. Officials have recommended maintaining a one-metre (three feet) distance from each other in public. Authorities closed non-essential businesses nationwide including shops trade centres and restaurants in Ashgabat Lebap and Mary regions until further notice due to Omicron cases. Large gatherings and public events are banned. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: A negative pre-departure test result issued within 72 hours or certified proof of vaccination is required to travel between regions. Covid Pass availability: Residents must test for COVID-19 at government recognised facilities or receive vaccination against COVID-19 with government recognised vaccines and request for relevant certificates. Authorities have not announced any official COVID-19 policy and have denied the existence of the virus in Turkmenistan. There is a lack of reliable and accurate information on the situation due to government censorship on the media. The World Health Organization (WHO) representatives on a visit to the country in 2020 urged the government to implement advanced health measures to tackle a possible outbreak. As of mid February authorities tightened restrictions nationwide including a lockdown in Lebap region due to Omicron cases.
Uzbekistan
Feb 20 2022 Authorities resumed regular flights to and from 18 countries: Turkey Kazakhstan Russia the United Arab Emirates South Korea Belarus Tajikistan Kyrgyzstan Egypt Kuwait Latvia the United States of America Georgia Germany India Israel Iran and Saudi Arabia. Charter flights to different destinations are also available. Land borders with Afghanistan Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan are closed whereas land travel between Tajikistan and Uzbekistan is restricted. Visa-free travel to Uzbekistan is effective for nationals of 86 countries including China Hong Kong Macau Bahrain Oman Qatar and Kuwait: however a visa-free period is different for countries. Before travel All travellers arriving via flights or trains must present a negative PCR test not older than 48 hours before departure. Birga Yengamiz is an optional contact tracing mobile app endorsed by the government. The app can be downloaded for iOS and Android devices at birgayengamiz.uz/ The wearing of face masks in public spaces is compulsory. Officials may fine those who do not wear face masks. Many non-essential businesses are allowed to operate with enter permitted mostly to vaccinated individuals while gathering restrictions and social distancing measures also apply. Indoor and outdoor gatherings including weddings are allowed to take place with a maximum of 100 people: public events are also allowed to be held. Officials are not planning to tighten domestic restrictions despite a surge in Omicron cases. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: Individuals must present a certificate that contains a QR code confirming their vaccination status or COVID-19 related certificates to access some public venues and visit public events. Covid Pass availability: Only fully vaccinated individuals can obtain a certificate about vaccination that contains a QR code. After receiving all doses of a vaccine individuals receive an SMS message with a link to a digital certificate. Those who do not receive an SMS message should contact a vaccination or a medical centre where all doses of vaccines have been received. Information on how a QR code can be obtained by those who received all doses of a vaccine in a different country was not immediately available. Since mid-2021 most restrictions have been eased as vaccination rates improved in the country. The healthcare sector is incapable of tackling a widespread outbreak. While most non-essential businesses are open gathering limits and social distancing measures along with restrictions on non-vaccinated individuals are likely to continue to in the near-term until infection rates markedly drop.
Yemen
Feb 17 2022 Saudi-led coalition forces control the countrys airspace and limit all traffic to humanitarian aid. Most overland border crossings and seaports are closed until further notice. Before travel Travellers require a negative PCR test dated within 72 hours. There is no national contact tracing app. All arriving travellers are subject to 14-day quarantine measures at government-assigned facilities. Rival authorities have imposed restrictions in areas under their control including curfews and intercity travel restrictions. Rival authorities have periodically imposed curfews in their areas of control. Rival authorities have previously banned non-essential inter-governorate travel in areas under their control including in Sanaa and Aden. Yemen has severely limited healthcare infrastructure to monitor and treat cases due to ongoing internal conflict. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation and failed healthcare system. As of mid-February less than 2 percent of the population were fully vaccinated.