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23/04/2022

Fully vaccinated travellers no longer need COVID-19 test to enter Singapore from Apr 26

SINGAPORE: All fully vaccinated travellers entering Singapore via air or sea checkpoints will no longer need to take a pre-departure test from Apr 26. 

This is compared to current measures, which require those arriving from these checkpoints to take a test within two days of their departure for Singapore.

“With this move, it will mean that fully vaccinated and well travellers will not require any tests to enter Singapore,” said the Ministry of Health (MOH) on Friday (Apr 22).

The removal of the pre-departure test requirement also applies to non-fully vaccinated children aged 12 and below.

The move is the latest in a string of efforts made in recent weeks to relax travel restrictions, including the launch of the Vaccinated Travel Framework on Apr 1 and the removal of the requirement for on-arrival tests.

[read more]

APPLYING FOR APPROVAL TO ENTER SINGAPORE

From May 1, fully vaccinated non-Malaysian work permit holders also no longer need to apply for entry approvals to enter Singapore, said MOH.

This includes non-Malaysian work permit holders holding an in-principle approval in the Construction, Marine Shipyard and Process (CMP) sectors.

Though this group currently has to get entry approvals from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), from May 1, they will no longer have to do so.

But they will still need to book a slot at a centre to undergo onboarding upon arrival.

Employers of these workers must use the new Onboard Booking system to secure onboarding slots before their workers arrive in Singapore, MOM said.

This requirement will also be extended to work permit holders from China, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan from May 1. 

“This simplifies the entry processes through a convenient one-stop service for such employers,” said MOM.

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23/03/2022

A Safe Restart - Your Safety, Our Priority

08/03/2022

Welcome To Singapore

22/02/2022

India likely to allow international flights from middle of March

India may resume regular international flights from the middle of March as the aviation ministry has sought the health ministry’s approval to resume regular international flights. The health ministry’s approval is mandatory in this case due to the prevailing COVID situation across the globe.

“India’s domestic traffic has rebounded fast and a decision was needed to be taken on resumption of international flights. A proposal has been sent to the health ministry for resuming international flights from March 15,” said an official source in the know, who did not want to be identified.

ET has reported last week that Indians will be able to plan their international holidays from this summer, as the aviation ministry will start the process to resume international flights after the capacity offered…

[read more]

domestic airlines reach 80%.

Indian airlines used to operate 2,800 flights at its peak pre-COVID and breached 80% of those numbers last week. Domestic passenger numbers have rebound fast too and Indian airlines carried 343,000 passengers on Sunday on 2335 flights.

The aviation ministry had, in November last year, announced plans to resume regular international flights starting December 15, 2021, but rescinded that order due to the rise in Omicron cases.

As the third wave of the pandemic abates, India announced to drop the requirements of a negative Covid-19 test result report and compulsory quarantine for fully vaccinated passengers arriving from 82 countries.

This move was welcomed by the industry and was seen by the industry as a prelude to the opening up of the country.

India had cancelled international flights in March 2020 when the first wave of the pandemic started sweeping across the world. It later opened international flights to bring back Indians from foreign countries, followed by bubble flight arrangements with select countries, where airlines were allowed to carry passengers only to their home bases.

India has bubble flight agreements with 37 countries including the US and the UK. Bubble agreements are temporary arrangements between two countries aimed at restarting commercial passenger services when regular international flights are suspended and are reciprocal in nature.

Airline industry sources say this is the right time for the country to open as countries across the globe are opening up.

“Resuming international flights makes sense because several countries across the globe are opening up international flights. This would ensure that from India will be accepted by these countries too or one would have to wait for the other country to launch flights,” said an airline executive, who did not want to be identified.

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10/02/2022

List of Countries Exempt from RT-PCR Test to be Taken Before Travelling
1 Albania
2 Andorra
3 Angola
4 Antigua & Barbuda
5 Australia
6 Austria
7 Azerbaijan
8 Bangladesh
9 Bahrain
10 Belarus
11 Botswana
12 Bulgaria
13 Canada
14 Cambodia
15 Chile
16 Columbia
17 Commonwealth of Dominica
18 Costa Rica
19 Croatia
20 Cuba
21 Cyprus
22 Denmark
23 Estonia
24 Finland
25 Georgia
26 Grenada
27 Guatemala
28 Guyana
29 Hong Kong
30 Hungary
31 Iceland
32 Iran
33 Ireland
34 Israel
35 Kazakhstan
36 Kyrgyzstan
37 Latvia
38 Lebanon
39 Liechtenstein
40 Malaysia
 
41 Maldives
42 Mali
43 Mauritius
44 Mexico
45 Moldova
46 Mongolia
47 Myanmar
48 Namibia
49 Nepal
50 New Zealand
51 Netherlands
52 Nicaragua
53 North Macedonia
54 Oman
55 Paraguay
56 Panama
57 Portugal
58 Philippines
59 Qatar
60 Romania
61 St. Kitts and Nevis
62 San Marino
63 Saudi Arabia
64 Serbia
65 Sierra Leone
66 Singapore
67 Slovak Republic
68 Slovenia
69 Spain
70 Sri Lanka
71 State of Palestine
72 Sweden
73 Switzerland
74 Thailand
75 The United Kingdom
76 Trinidad & Tobago
77 Turkey
78 Ukraine
79 United States of America
80 Venezuela
81 Vietnam
82 Zimbabwe

10/02/2022

RT-PCR Report not Required, Govt Issues New Guidelines for International Travellers

As per the new guideline, the mandatory 72-hour report of RT-PCR is not required anymore and the travellers can show their Full Vaccination Certificate.

Government of India has issued fresh Covid-19 guidelines for international arriving passengers. As per the new guideline, the mandatory 72-hour report of RT-PCR is not required anymore and the travellers can show their Full Vaccination Certificate. Airlines will allow boarding to those passengers who have filled in all the information in the Self Declaration Form on the Air Suvidha portal and uploaded the negative RT-PCR test report or Covid -19 vaccination certificate.

[read more]

Further, the government has removed the ‘At Risk’ marking for various countries with high Omicron case load. Govt has also removed the 7-days mandatory quarantine norm and all travellers will self-monitor their health for next 14 days of arrival.

Samples will no longer be given at airports and ports and passengers can leave the airport by giving sample for random sampling. As per the guidelines, 2 percent of the total passengers in the flight shall undergo random post arrival testing at the airport on arrival.

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15/12/2021

Pre-booking RT-PCR tests mandatory for passengers arriving from 'at-risk' countries to 6 six metro cities

The Aviation ministry, however, clarified that the passengers will be allowed to board the flights even if they fail to pre-book the RT-PCR tests. In such cases, it would be the responsibility of the airlines to identify and accompany such passengers to the registration counter at the airport for testing, it said.

Pre-booking of RT-PCR tests has been made mandatory for international passengers arriving from ‘at-risk’ countries to six metro cities including Mumbai and Delhi, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) announced on December 14. The new rule would come into effect from December 20, it said.

The other airports where pre-booking of RT-PCR tests has been made compulsory are Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad and Kolkata.

[read more]

“Air Suvidha portal would be modified to allow the passengers to mandatorily pre- book the RT PCR test if they are coming from the countries ‘at risk’ or have visited ‘at risk’ countries in the last 14 days. Link to the concerned airport website would be provided in Air Suvidha platform which would be displayed to passengers while filling up the self-declaration form (SDF),” the MoCA said.

The list of at-risk countries, as announced by the government following the detection of Omicron variant last month, includes the United Kingdom and other European nations, along with South Africa, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Botswana, Ghana, Brazil, China, Mauritius, New Zealand, Hong Kong and Israel.

The mandatory pre-booking of RT-PCR tests may be extended for all airports in the days to come, the Aviation ministry suggested. “To stabilize the system and to ensure that the passengers would not have any problem in pre-booking, payment etc, it may be implemented in six metro cities, namely, Delhi, Mumbai Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad in the first phase,” it said.

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07/12/2021

UAE Switches Weekend to Saturday-Sunday, Adopts 4 ½ Day Week

Sign up for our Middle East newsletter and follow us @middleeast for news on the region.

The United Arab Emirates will move its weekend to Saturday and Sunday, breaking ranks with the rest of the Gulf region as it seeks to draw in global investment and business.

The nation will enact the change starting Jan. 1, adopting a 4 1/2-day working week, with Friday — a holy day in Islam — being a half day, the federal government said in a statement. The UAE and the rest of the Gulf nations, including Saudi Arabia, currently have a Sunday-to-Thursday working week. 

[read more]

The change marks a further step in efforts by the UAE, of which Abu Dhabi and Dubai are a part, to maintain its status as the Gulf’s pre-eminent business hub. Regional competition from neighboring Saudi Arabia is rising as the oil-producing heavyweight engages in an unprecedented drive to attract overseas investment and diversify its economy.

“This will align the UAE with global markets and make it easier for international corporations to do business,” said Nabil Alyousuf, chief executive officer of Dubai-based International Advisory Group. It “will increase the number of days we do business with the rest of the world, which will boost trade.”

The government didn’t say in its statement Tuesday whether the private sector would have to adopt the new 4 1/2-day week. It wasn’t clear either how the change will affect the school week, which analysts say will be key to determining how the private sector adjusts.

“The private sector will have flexibility to decide the weekend,” Abdulrahman Al Awar, director general of the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources, said in an interview with Asharq TV. The country’s labor law allocates a maximum of 48 hours per working week and a minimum of one day off per week, he said. 

What Bloomberg Economics Says…

“The decision will make the UAE more attractive as a regional destination for foreign companies. But the appeal of private-sector jobs will further diminish if the 4-1/2 workweek doesn’t extend beyond government entities.”  

–Ziad Daoud, chief emerging market economist. 

Traders and investors in the Gulf’s equity markets may struggle to find a balance between the UAE’s new working week and that of other countries in the region. Stocks in Saudi Arabia, home to the largest bourse in the Middle East, trade Sunday through Thursday.

Dubai’s DFM Index rose as much as 1.7% Tuesday, while Abu Dhabi’s ADX gauge was little changed. Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul advanced 0.7%.

The change could still make it easier for companies involved in the energy sector. Many crude and fuel traders based in the region already work a Monday-to-Friday week in line with global oil markets. The emirates of Dubai and Abu Dhabi both trade their crude oil on exchanges following Monday-to-Friday hours.

The announcement comes during a year in which the UAE has spent more than $6 billion to help push 75,000 citizens into private-sector employment. Like other Gulf countries, the UAE has a large proportion of citizens working in state jobs that offer better pay and shorter hours. 

UAE to Spend $6.5 Billion to Boost Private-Sector Jobs 

Other countries across the region may follow the change before long. In 2006, when the UAE became the first in the Gulf to move its weekend from Thursday and Friday to Friday and Saturday, it was followed by Saudi Arabia in 2013 and then much of the Gulf. 

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15/12/2021

Pre-booking RT-PCR tests mandatory for passengers arriving from 'at-risk' countries to 6 six metro cities

Sign up for our Middle East newsletter and follow us @middleeast for news on the region.

The United Arab Emirates will move its weekend to Saturday and Sunday, breaking ranks with the rest of the Gulf region as it seeks to draw in global investment and business.

The nation will enact the change starting Jan. 1, adopting a 4 1/2-day working week, with Friday — a holy day in Islam — being a half day, the federal government said in a statement. The UAE and the rest of the Gulf nations, including Saudi Arabia, currently have a Sunday-to-Thursday working week. 

[read more]

The change marks a further step in efforts by the UAE, of which Abu Dhabi and Dubai are a part, to maintain its status as the Gulf’s pre-eminent business hub. Regional competition from neighboring Saudi Arabia is rising as the oil-producing heavyweight engages in an unprecedented drive to attract overseas investment and diversify its economy.

“This will align the UAE with global markets and make it easier for international corporations to do business,” said Nabil Alyousuf, chief executive officer of Dubai-based International Advisory Group. It “will increase the number of days we do business with the rest of the world, which will boost trade.”

The government didn’t say in its statement Tuesday whether the private sector would have to adopt the new 4 1/2-day week. It wasn’t clear either how the change will affect the school week, which analysts say will be key to determining how the private sector adjusts.

“The private sector will have flexibility to decide the weekend,” Abdulrahman Al Awar, director general of the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources, said in an interview with Asharq TV. The country’s labor law allocates a maximum of 48 hours per working week and a minimum of one day off per week, he said. 

What Bloomberg Economics Says…

“The decision will make the UAE more attractive as a regional destination for foreign companies. But the appeal of private-sector jobs will further diminish if the 4-1/2 workweek doesn’t extend beyond government entities.”  

–Ziad Daoud, chief emerging market economist. 

Traders and investors in the Gulf’s equity markets may struggle to find a balance between the UAE’s new working week and that of other countries in the region. Stocks in Saudi Arabia, home to the largest bourse in the Middle East, trade Sunday through Thursday.

Dubai’s DFM Index rose as much as 1.7% Tuesday, while Abu Dhabi’s ADX gauge was little changed. Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul advanced 0.7%.

The change could still make it easier for companies involved in the energy sector. Many crude and fuel traders based in the region already work a Monday-to-Friday week in line with global oil markets. The emirates of Dubai and Abu Dhabi both trade their crude oil on exchanges following Monday-to-Friday hours.

The announcement comes during a year in which the UAE has spent more than $6 billion to help push 75,000 citizens into private-sector employment. Like other Gulf countries, the UAE has a large proportion of citizens working in state jobs that offer better pay and shorter hours. 

UAE to Spend $6.5 Billion to Boost Private-Sector Jobs 

Other countries across the region may follow the change before long. In 2006, when the UAE became the first in the Gulf to move its weekend from Thursday and Friday to Friday and Saturday, it was followed by Saudi Arabia in 2013 and then much of the Gulf. 

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04/12/2021

As of 4th Dec, 2021, Switzerland has lifted the quarantine rule.

This means that no country is now on the mandatory quarantine list.

Those who are un vaccinated from “countries at risk” will not be able to enter Switzerland stricter testing rules will however be implemented on travelers.

This means that even if you are fully vaccinated, you need to submit an RT PCR test on entry into Switzerland, and then also do a PCR / Antigen Test (at their own expense) between the 4th and 7th day of Entry into Switzerland.

The focus is to control the pandemic and curb the spread of the new Omicron variant.

You can find more information on the link below:
https://www.bag.admin.ch/bag/en/home/das-bag/aktuell/medienmitteilungen.msg-id-86260.html

If there are any new updates, will keep you posted.

Follow us on LinkedIn for the latest updates and information:
https://newsletter.gadmin.ch/t/r-l-trdyikit-ojttrjjidd-b/

02/12/2021

Maharashtra Government Order Dated 2 December Signed by Chief Secretary

In Mumbai Arrival

Below High risk countries will be 7 days institutional Quarantine and 7 Days Home Quarantine
1. South Africa
2. Botswana
3. Zimbabwe

Below high risk countries will be as per  GOI norms -7 days home quarantine for

1. Countries in Europe including The United Kingdom
2. Brazil
3. China
4. Mauritius
5. New Zealand
6. Singapore
7. Hong Kong
8. Israel

Rest of countries -Random  2% to be tested .
Self monitoring for 14 Days.

Domestic Travelers – If vaccinated No RT-PCR Required

26/11/2021

Happy to announce as recognized Visa facilitators for Singapore consulate, Cirrus can now accept visa applications for Singapore.

Checklist as below:

1) Original Passport valid for 6 months from date of entry in Singapore.

2) Visa Application form. (attached)

3) Two three month recent photograph with white background matt finish 80% face 3.5 x 4.5 cm size. one photo should be paste on application form and name and passport no. should be on extra photo. (scan photos are not acceptable) (photo should be not used in past visas)

[read more]

4) Original Covering letter with mentioned details like – Full name as per the passport, Passport number, work profile, Travel dates, Hotel name, purpose of travel, who will bear the expense of travel & applicant Contact number & email ID

5) Personal Bank statement for last 3 months. (for first time traveller)

6) Hotel Confirmation.(if tourist)

7) Invitation letter from Singapore company. (if Business)

8) Invitation letter with inviter passport copy and employment pass. (if family or friend visit)

9) Return air ticket.

10) Resident proof if passport issued from other than Maharashtra, MP, Gujarat, Goa, CG and Orissa.

10) Insurance copy – minimum USD 30000/- with Covid Cover (Not mandatory, we can help you to provide the same)

9) VTP Approval (We can help you to arrange for the same)

Request you to make a note on below:

Travellers who require a Singapore visa should apply for Visa only after receiving their VTP approval. A VTP (Vaccinated Travel Pass) is valid for six calendar days from the traveller’s chosen date of entry into Singapore, and only for single entry.

Applications can only be made within 30 days of the travel date and not before that.

Processing time: 5-7 working days after done the online application.

Download Form 14A here 

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23/11/2021

23/11/2021

We’re pleased to share the below update on Visa Application Charge (VAC) Waiver from the Department of Home Affairs:

Visa Application Charge (VAC) Free Applications: If you (or your customer) held a Visitor visa (Subclass 600) that expired, or will expire, between 20 March 2020 and 31 December 2021, then you will be able to apply for a future Visitor visa, at no cost, under Visa Application Charge (VAC) waiver provisions. You must lodge your application by 31 December 2022 to receive the VAC Waiver. You can indicate your eligibility for the VAC waiver when you apply for your new visa, as soon as the Australian borders reopen for tourists.

This too

23/11/2021

Update from UAE

Discontinuation of Transit Time More Than 10-Hours Restrictions for Passengers Traveling from Restricted

Countries via Dubai

Dear All,

With immediate effect, the restrictions related to transit time of more than 10-hours for passengers traveling from restricted countries via Dubai (DXB) have been removed.

Passengers traveling from restricted countries with transit time more than 10-hours in Dubai (DXB) can now be accepted for travel and can stay at Dubai Airports (DXB) air side during their transit period.

22/11/2021

Proud to inform everyone that Dept of Community Medicine, KEM Hospital, Parel, Mumbai is starting YELLOW FEVER VACCINATION CENTRE from today details of which are as follows :
VENUE : Multi storeyed Building, 1st floor, OPD No.10
DAYS : Tuesday & Thursday
TIMINGS : 1.30 to 3.00 pm
CHARGES : Rs 300/- per vaccination
CONTACT NOS : 022 24107484/7074/7714/7319

21/11/2021

Singapore & India to Resume Scheduled Commercial Flights Under Vaccinated Travel Lane

Delhi, Mumbai & Chennai to have commercial flights to Singapore from November 29

NEW DELHI: India will soon resume flights between Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Singapore, which is reopening its doors quarantine-free for fully vaccinated and Covid negative travellers from India starting November 29 through a “vaccinated travel lane” (VTL).
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) has announced that VTL will start with six daily flights from Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai. Airlines will now announce their schedule for these flights.
Applications for “vaccinated travel pass” (VTP) for short-term visitors and long-term pass holders from India can be filed starting 3.30 pm (IST) Monday (Nov 22).
India’s foreign minister S Jaishankar  was recently in Singapore and is learnt to have played a key role in resumption of travel to this key destination for Indians. “Began my Singapore visit by meeting S Iswaran, minister of transport. Discussed enhancing travel arrangements between the two countries,” minister Jaishankar had tweeted on Wednesday (Nov 17). 

[read more]

CAAS said in a statement it “has reached an agreement with India’s aviation ministry on resumption of scheduled commercial passenger flights between Singapore and India. This will facilitate quarantine-free travel on VTL from India to Singapore, which will start from November 29, 2021, with six designated VTL flights daily from Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai.

“VTP applications will open for intended dates of entry from November 29, 2021, to January 21, 2022 (7 to 60 calendar days ahead). Those who intend to enter Singapore after December 1, 2021, are strongly encouraged to apply after 24 November 2021,” CAAS says.

“To facilitate the application process, VTP applicants should have the following information on hand: passport; digital proof of vaccination; and address in Singapore for self-isolation pending the results of their on-arrival Covid-19 PCR test. Short-term visitors who require a visa for travel to Singapore must separately obtain a visa. They are advised to do so after receiving their VTP approval and before departing for Singapore. They must also purchase travel insurance, with a minimum coverage of S$30,000 for Covid-19-related medical treatment and hospitalisation costs, prior to travel to Singapore…,” CAAS statement adds.

A Singapore Airlines (SIA) spokesperson said: “SIA welcomes the agreement between Singapore and India on the resumption of scheduled passenger commercial flights between the two countries. The airline is working closely with the relevant authorities to secure approval to resume scheduled passenger flights between the two countries as soon as possible. SIA will share more information on our flight schedules, including the designated Vaccinated Travel Lane flights, when they are ready. We seek our customers’ patience and are grateful for their understanding.”

“Airlines can also operate non-VTL flights between India and Singapore; travellers travelling on non-VTL flights into Singapore will be subject to the prevailing public health requirements based on the Singapore ministry of health (MOH)’s country/region classification for border measures. Airlines will announce schedules for the VTL and non-VTL flights when ready,” the statement added.

Short-term visitors and long-term pass holders will need to apply for a VTP to enter Singapore under VTL. Applications for the VTP for short-term visitors and long-term pass holders for travel from Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Finland, and Sweden to Singapore will open on 22 November 2021.

“CAAS understands that travellers are looking forward to the launch of the VTL and would like to assure travellers that there is no need to rush to apply for the VTP,” it says.

“Fully vaccinated Singapore citizens and permanent residents, and children aged 12 and below do not need to apply for a VTP to enter Singapore under VTL…. All short-term visitors and long-term pass holders who meet the requirements of VTL, will receive a VTP,” CAAS statement says.

“VTL travellers must have remained only in one or more of the VTL countries, or a country/region in Category I of Singapore MOH’s Country/Region Classification for Border Measures in the last 14 consecutive days prior to departure to Singapore. If the traveller has been in Singapore within those last 14 days, his/her stay in Singapore can be counted towards fulfilling this 14-day travel history requirement,” CAAS says.

All VTL travellers will need to take two Covid-19 tests: A pre-departure test, which must be a PCR test or a professionally-administered Antigen Rapid Test (ART), within two days before departing for Singapore and obtain a negative test result. And an on-arrival PCR test at Changi Airport and remain self-isolated until their test result is confirmed to be negative. Children aged 2 years and below in the calendar year are not required to undergo these tests.

All VTL travellers must have been fully vaccinated and present a digital proof of vaccination that is recognised by the Singapore authorities. Children aged 12 years and below in the calendar year are not required to present a proof of vaccination to enter Singapore under the VTL if they are accompanied by a VTL traveller who meets all VTL requirements for entry into Singapore.

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18/11/2021

When guests traveling to any destination and you want to know the guidelines for that destination, please refer to destination guide on etihadhub.com. 

https://www.etihad.com/en-ae/travel-updates/all-destinations-travel-guides  

Steps given below:

  • Flying from  –   Enter point of Origin
  • Flying to –   Enter destination

Thereafter check the details under Flying from and Flying to.

16/11/2021

Singapore to Launch Vaccinated Travel Lanes with India, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia

SINGAPORE: Singapore will extend its vaccinated travel lane (VTL) scheme to more countries starting from Nov 29, according to the Ministry of Health (MOH) on Monday (Nov 15).

The country intends to launch VTLs with India and Indonesia from Nov 29, and with Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from Dec 6.

Speaking at the COVID-19 multi-ministry task force press conference on Monday, Transport Minister S Iswaran said Singapore and India have been discussing the mutual recognition of vaccination certificates.

[read more]
Since Nov 12, India has started recognising vaccination certificates issued by Singapore. “This means that fully vaccinated travellers from Singapore entering India will no longer need to undergo post-arrival tests home quarantine, they will just need to self monitor for 14 days upon arrival,” said Mr Iswaran. MOH, added Mr Iswaran, has also updated its public health assessment and will upgrade India to Category 2 from Nov 19. “We are in discussions on the resumption of scheduled commercial passenger services (with India). As today the only flights from Singapore allowed to carry passengers to India are government charter relief flights under the Vande Bharat mission.” He added that discussions with India are “progressing well”, and there is an aim to resume two daily VTL flights each from Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai by Nov 29. “The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) will provide more details once finalised.”
UNILATERAL VTL WITH INDONESIA
As for the upcoming VTL with Indonesia, Mr Iswaran said it will be a unilateral vaccination travel lane for now. “Indonesia remains closed to general travel, but has started to open its borders. Since Oct 14, Indonesia has unilaterally reopened its borders to allow visitors from 19 countries,” said Mr Iswaran. “We hope that Indonesia will likewise soon reopen its borders to travellers from Singapore.” For a start, Mr Iswaran said, there will be two daily designated services between Singapore and Jakarta. This will progressively be increased to four. Applications for short-term visitors and long-term pass holders will start on Nov 22 for travellers from India and Indonesia, while travellers from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and UAE will be able to apply from Nov 29. Returning Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents who are fully vaccinated will not need to apply if they are travelling via the VTL. “Travellers intending to travel from Singapore to these countries/regions are advised to check the prevailing entry requirements of the destination,” said MOH in a release on Monday.
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15/11/2021

Travel To Turkey

Updated Regulation – Travel To Turkey
Effective from 15 November 2021, passengers travelling to Turkey from India & Nepal or those who have been
in these countries within the last 14 days will be subject to the following measures:
1. All passengers must submit a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival.
2. Passengers who certify that they have had at least two doses (single dose for Johnson & Johnson) of the
vaccines approved for emergency use by the World Health Organization or Turkey, provided that at least 14
days have passed since the last dose, will be exempted from mandatory quarantine.

[read more]

3. Passengers who cannot provide the abovementioned certificate will be quarantined in their residence or
the address they will declare. On the 10 day of quarantine, they will be subjected to PCR test and
– if PCR test result is negative, quarantine will be terminated
– if PCR test result is positive, treatment will be conducted in accordance with the Covid-19 guidelines of the
Ministry of Health
– Quarantine period for those who do not have a PCR test on the 10 day will be extended to 14 days.
4. Passengers between the ages 12 and 18 travelling with their parents who cannot certify that they have
been fully vaccinated must submit a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival. After
arrival, these passengers will again be subjected to PCR test in their residence or the address they declare. If
PCR test result is negative, they will be exempted from quarantine.
5. Passengers under the age of 12 will be exempted from PCR test and vaccination certificate applications on
entry.
6. Abovementioned requirements are not applicable to transit and/or transfer passengers.
7. There will be no PCR requirement and quarantine for the crew.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Turkish-Embassy-in-New-Delhi/187873347930492

https://twitter.com/TurkeyinDelhi

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15/11/2021

Mauritius Travel Updates
Dear Travel Partner,

Re : Resumption of Commercial Fliqhts effective 18 November 2021

We are pleased to announce resumption of our commercial flights from Mumbai (BOM) to Mauritius (MRU) effective 18th November 2021.

The schedule is already updated on GDS as per below details.

RouteFlt NoDeparture Local TimeArrivai Local TimeDays of Ops’ Aircraft Type
Mumbai to
Mauritius		MK 74919.1023.40Thursday,SaturdayA330/A350
Mauritius
to Mumbai		MK 74809.3017.10Thursday,Saturday

[read more]

Kindly nota the following info regarding the above flights:

  • On MRU-BOM sector the flight will operate only in Economy class until further notice
  • The BOM-MRU sector will operate in Economy Class, with the possibility of customers purchasing an upgrade in Business Class (saleable only at BOM Airport) for an adapted Business Class

For customers already holding our EMD Good For Further Transportation (GFFT) / Vouchers, we would encourage them to utilize same for the flight journeys. Refund related guidelines are already circulated and Auto Refund in GDS is now permitted as from 15 November 2021.

Please check following info while preparing for your customer’s travel

https //www airmauritius com/covid-19-update/travel-information/prepare-for-your-travel.

  • Familiarize with the latest travel requirements, including all health security requirements, enforced by Mauritius & Indian Kindly ensure passengers have all the required  travel documents, travel approvals before embarking on the journey.
  • Travelers should ensure that their medical clearances are up to
  • Kindly check free Baggage & hand baggage allowance on GDS & our website

Should you require any further assistance, please call reservations or Sales executive or write to info-mkbomoff@airmauritius com. We look forward to your cooperation and support to develop mutually beneficial business relationship along with welcoming customers on board.

Yours sincerely,

Atul Bhatara

Manager — India & South Asian Sub-continent

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09/11/2021

Dear Sir,
Good Morning!

This is to informed you that Greece has started tourist & business visa applications.
You can submit application as of now twice in a week i.e. Monday & Wednesday.
Our website will also be updated soon.
Https://in-gr.gvcworld.eu

Thanks & Stay Safe,
Mohammed Sohel Shaikh
Operation Manager- Greece Centre Mumbai

09/11/2021

Travel update: new guidance for people vaccinated under WHO Emergency Use Listing and under 18s

From 4am Monday 22 November, COVID-19 vaccines on the WHO EUL will be recognised and all under-18s coming to England will be treated as fully vaccinated at the border.

  • vaccines listed under the WHO Emergency Use List will be recognised in government’s inbound travel rules
  • travel rules simplified further as all under-18s worldwide will be able to enter England without needing to self-isolate on arrival
  • changes come into force at 4am on Monday 22 November 2021

From 4am on Monday 22 November, the government will recognise vaccines on the World Health Organization’s Emergency Use Listing (WHO EUL). As a result, Sinovac, Sinopharm Beijing and Covaxin will be added to our list of approved vaccines for inbound travel, benefitting more fully vaccinated people from countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Malaysia and India. The US also recognises the vaccines on the WHO EUL for inbound travel.

Passengers who have been fully vaccinated and have received their vaccine certificate from one of over 135 approved countries and territories are not required to take a pre-departure test, day 8 test or self-isolate upon arrival. Instead, passengers will just need to pay for a lateral flow test to take before the end of their second day, post-arrival.

[read more] From 4am on Monday 22 November, we will recognise the following vaccines: Pfizer BioNTech, Oxford AstraZeneca (including Covishield), Moderna and Janssen (J&J), and WHO EUL including Sinovac, Sinopharm Beijing and Covaxin. This comes as the government simplifies travel rules for all under-18s coming to England who will be treated as fully vaccinated at the border and will be exempt from self-isolation requirements on arrival, day 8 testing and pre-departure testing. They will only be required to take 1 post-arrival test and a confirmatory free PCR test if they test positive. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said:
As we continue to recover from the pandemic and expand our recognition of international vaccines, today’s announcements mark the next step in our restart of international travel.

By also simplifying the rules for international travel for all under-18s coming to England, we’re bringing further good news for families looking to unite with loved ones, and another great boost for the travel sector.

Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid said:
Today’s announcement is another step forward for the travel industry, businesses and for family and friends wanting to reunite or go abroad.

The red list and quarantine system remain vital in protecting our borders and as we’ve said we will not hesitate to take action by adding countries to the red list if necessary.

The government keeps its border measures under review, including the red list, and will impose restrictions should there be a need to do so to protect public health. The WHO EUL Procedure was brought in during the 2014 Ebola outbreak to assess vaccines for use and to support countries in accessing vaccines (and other selected products) during public health emergencies. Sinovac, Sinopharm Beijing and Covaxin are covered by the expansion to the WHO EUL, and around 1 billion doses of these vaccines have been delivered worldwide. The news follows the recent removal of all countries and territories from the red list, though managed quarantine policy remains in place and we will continue to review the red list every 3 weeks.
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08/11/2021

16/10/2021

U.S. to lift restrictions Nov 8 for vaccinated foreign travelers

WASHINGTON, Oct 15 (Reuters) – The White House on Friday will lift COVID-19 travel restrictions for fully vaccinated international visitors starting Nov. 8, ending historic restrictions that had barred much of the world from entering the United States for as long as 21 months.

The unprecedented travel restrictions kept millions of visitors out of the United States from China, Canada, Mexico, India, Brazil, much of Europe and elsewhere; shrunk U.S. tourism; and hurt border community economies. They prevented many loved ones and foreign workers from reuniting with families.

Also read: U.S. will accept mixed doses of vaccines from international travelers

“Oh how I’ve missed Christmas in NY,” Alexandros Koronakis, an executive with AT&T Inc in Brussels, wrote on Twitter.

U.S. allies had heavily lobbied the Biden administration to lift the rules. Many praised Friday’s announcement, including Sweden’s ambassador to the United States Karin Olofsdotter, who called it “very welcoming news.”

White House spokesman Kevin Munoz confirmed the Nov. 8 date on Twitter, adding the policy “is guided by public health, stringent, and consistent.”

[read more]

Restrictions on non-U.S. citizens were first imposed on air travelers from China in January 2020 by then-President Donald Trump and then extended to dozens of other countries, without any clear metrics for how and when to lift them.

Curbs on non-essential travelers at land borders with Mexico and Canada have been in place since March 2020 to address the COVID-19 pandemic.

Reuters first reported Friday’s announcement of the Nov. 8 starting date earlier in the day.

U.S. airline, hotel and cruise industry stocks rose on the news, including American Airlines (AAL.O), up 2.8%; Marriott International Inc (MAR.O), up 3.7%; and Carnival Corp (CCL.N), up 0.9%.

U.S. international air passenger traffic was down 43% in August and overall passenger air traffic was down 21% over pre-pandemic levels, the U.S. Transportation Department said Friday.

Airlines have seen an increase in international ticket sales in recent weeks after the White House announced plans to lift the restrictions, Nick Calio, chief executive of the Airlines for America industry trade group, said in a statement.

Calio said the “full reopening of international travel is also critical to reviving economies around the globe, reinvigorating communities and supporting millions of jobs in the U.S. and abroad.”

The United States had lagged many other countries in lifting such restrictions.

In January, Trump issued an order to lift travel restrictions on people in Europe and Brazil. But the order was reversed by President Joe Biden before it took effect.

The Biden administration, which repeatedly has said it does endorse so-called “vaccine passports,” grappled for months over whether to mandate vaccinations as a condition of lifting country-specific restrictions, officials told Reuters.

On Tuesday, the White House announced it would lift restrictions at its land borders and ferry crossings with Canada and Mexico for fully vaccinated foreign nationals in early November. They are similar but not identical to requirements announced last month for international air travelers.

Unvaccinated visitors will still be barred from entering the United States from Canada or Mexico at land borders.

Canada on Aug. 9 began allowing fully vaccinated U.S. visitors for non-essential travel.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) told Reuters last week the United States will accept the use by international visitors of COVID-19 vaccines authorized by U.S. regulators or the World Health Organization.

The White House, which held a meeting late Thursday to finalize the Nov. 8 date, faces some remaining questions, including how and what exemptions the Biden administration will grant to the vaccine requirements. Children under 18, for example, are largely expected to be exempt from the requirements, an official said.

U.S. Travel Association Chief Executive Roger Dow said declines in international visits since the pandemic started resulted in more than $250 billion in lost income.

Dow said in a statement that the Nov. 8 date “is critically important for planning – for airlines, for travel-supported businesses, and for millions of travelers worldwide who will now advance plans to visit the United States once again.”

The White House announced on Sept. 20 that the United States would lift restrictions on air travelers from 33 countries in early November. It did not specify the date at the time.

Starting Nov. 8, the United States will admit fully vaccinated foreign air travelers from the 26 so-called Schengen countries in Europe, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland and Greece, as well as Britain, Ireland, China, India, South Africa, Iran and Brazil. The unprecedented U.S. restrictions have barred non-U.S. citizens who were in those countries within the past 14 days.

The United States has allowed foreign air travelers from more than 150 countries throughout the pandemic, a policy that critics said made little sense because some countries with high infection rates were not on the restricted list, while some on the list had the pandemic more under control.

The White House said last month it would apply vaccine requirements to foreign nationals traveling from all other countries.

Non-U.S. air travelers will need to show proof of vaccination before boarding a flight, and will need to show proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test. Foreign visitors crossing a land border will not need to show proof of a recent negative test.

The new rules do not require foreign visitors or Americans entering the country to go into quarantine.

Americans traveling overseas must still show proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test, and unvaccinated Americans will face stricter testing requirements. They will also be subject to restrictions in countries they plan to visit, which may include quarantines.

The CDC plans to issue new rules soon on contact tracing for international air travelers.

Reporting by David Shepardson; additional reporting by Tyler Clifford; Editing by Jonathan Oatis;
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05/10/2021

Passport Holders of Some Countries Including Indian May Apply For Visa on Arrival in Thailand
According to the Ministerial Regulation of the Ministry of Interior of the Kingdom of Thailand, passport holders from Bulgaria, Bhutan, China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau), Cyprus, Ethiopia, Fiji, Georgia, India, Kazakhstan, Malta, Mexico, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Uzbekistan and Vanuatu are entitled to apply for VoA at 48 designated immigration checkpoints, which will allow tourists to enter the country for the purpose of tourism and stay for up to 15 days. Requirements for VoA Application – Completed application form – Photograph (4×6 cm) – Passport with at least 6 months of validity** – Confirmed return ticket within 15 days. – 2,000 Baht fee in cash – Applicant must carry sufficient funding (at least 10,000 Baht per person or 20,000 Baht per family) and provide proof of accommodation in Thailand. Online Application for Visa on Arrival The Royal Thai Government has launched “E-VoA” service to facilitate passengers that are eligible to apply for Visa on Arrival and arriving in Thailand via Suvarnabhumi Airport, Don Mueang International Airport, Chiang Mai International Airport, and Phuket International Airport. They can also apply for VoA online at https://thailandevoa.vfsevisa.com/thailand/online/home/index

[read more]

 List of VoA Checkpoints

1. Suvarnabhumi Airport
2. Don Muang International Airport, Bangkok
3. Chiangmai International Airport, Chiangmai
4. Phuket International Airport, Phuket
5. Hatyai International Airport, Songkhla
6. U Tapao Airport, Rayong
7. Mae Sai Immigration Checkpoint, Chiangrai
8. Chiang Saen Immigration Checkpoint, Chiangrai
9. Chiang Khong Immigration Checkpoint, Chiangrai
10. Betong Immigration Checkpoint, Yala
11. Sadao Immigration Checkpoint, Songkhla
12. Samui Airport, Surat Thani
13. Sukhothai International Airport, Tak Immigration Checkpoint
14. Bangkok Harbour Immigration Checkpoint, Bangkok
15. Sri Racha Immigration Checkpoint, Chonburi
16. Mabtaput Immigration Checkpoint, Rayong
17. Nong Khai Immigration Checkpoint, Nong Khai
18. Samui Immigration Checkpoint, Surat Thani
19. Phuket Immigration Checkpoint, Phuket
20. Satun Immigration Checkpoint, Satun
21. Krabi Immigration Checkpoint, Krabi
22. Songkhla Harbour Immigration Checkpoint, Songkhla
23. Chiangrai Airport Immigration Checkpoint, Chiangrai
24. Surat Thani Airport Immigration Checkpoint, Surat Thani
25. Sattahip Habour Immigration Checkpoint, Chonburi
26. Khlong Yai Immigration Checkpoint, Trat
27. Pong Nam Ron Immigration Checkpoint, Chanthaburi
28. Aranyaprathet Immigration Checkpoint, Sakaeo
29. Mukdahan Immigration Checkpoint, Mukdahan
30. Tak Immigration Checkpoint, Tak
31. Padang Besar Immigration Checkpoint, Songkhla
32. Su-ngai Kolok Immigration Checkpoint, Narathiwat
33. Nong Khai Immigration Checkpoint, Nong Khai
34. Bueng Kan Immigration Checkpoint, Bueng Kan
35. Phibun Mangsahan Immigration Checkpoint, Ubon Ratchathani
36. Tha Li Immigration Checkpoint, Loei
37. Nakhon Phanom Immigration Checkpoint, Nakhon Phanom
38. Nan Immigration Checkpoint, Nan
39. Ban Prakob Immigration Checkpoint, Songkhla
40. Khuan Don Immigration Checkpoint, Satun
41. Tak Bai Immigration Checkpoint, Narathiwat
42. Bukit Tal Immigration Checkpoint, Narathiwat
43. Samut Prakan Checkpoint, Samut Prakan
44. Kanchanaburi Land Border Checkpoint, Kanchanaburi
45. Prachuap Khiri Khan Checkpoint at Hua Hin Airport, Prachuap Khiri Khan
46. Phusing Land Border Checkpoint, Sisaket
47. Satun Checkpoint at Koh Lipe Marine Port, Satun
48. Trang Airport, Trang[/read]

01/10/2021

Bonjour !

This is with reference to an update in the conditions for children relating to the Health Pass/Covid certificate for France as of 1st of October.

 
As of 27 August 2021, Applications for COVID certificates can directly be made online via the links below.
 
For more details, please refer to consolidated information available here :- https://drive.google.com/file/d/1C7X-_mLu5IhLBiSGXRxruVJUFNLT4QTN/view?usp=sharing
 
Best regards,
Team Atout France India

28/09/2021

Travel advice for the Nordic region in the age of the Coronavirus

Although most of us have already began to talk about a time after COVID-19 and there are many positives to draw from, the fact is that we still have a little while to go. What this means is that we have to continue to live and travel in more flexible, cautious and smarter ways. This guide has been designed assist you with planning your travels to the Nordics in these unusual times.

UPDATED 28 SEPTEMBER 2021

For the most part, the Nordic region (especially Iceland, Norway, Denmark, Finland, and the Baltic countries of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania) has handled the coronavirus pandemic in praiseworthy ways and will be one of the forerunners of safer travel. This area is not only sparsely populated by most standards, but also has many other benefits, such as:

• Option to travel to more remote destinations (avoiding crowds)

• Very clean air and water

• Spectacular nature and lots of space

• Wide range of outdoor activities

• Well prepared and small accommodation options

• Easy to travel by road, rail or sea if wanting to avoid unnecessary flying

• Sustainable destinations

• World class hygiene and other safety standards

CLICK HERE TO READ SPECIFIC DETAILS ON WHICH BORDERS ARE OPEN IN SCANDINAVIA AND THE NORDIC REGION.

Below are some resources to aid you in planning and preparing for travel to the Nordic region in these unusual times.

[read more]

WHAT DO I NEED TO TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION WHEN PLANNING A TRIP TO THE NORDICS?

Before you travel, you should check the details of your travel insurance with a fine-tooth comb to ensure that you are covered in the case of Covid-19 related delays or cancellations. We recommend that you purchase a ‘cancel for any reason’ (CFAR) travel insurance policy.

You should also check the travel advice and restrictions in place in your country of origin as well as your transit destination.

Other things to consider include:

  • Making sure you can access funds to cover emergencies and unexpected changes and delays. Do not rely on a single form of payment (e.g. just one credit card).

  • Being prepared to follow the advice from local authorities while abroad, e.g. being ready and willing to comply with local isolation or quarantine requirements.

  • Making sure you have enough medication with you in case your trip becomes longer than initially planned.

  • Being prepared for financial and logistical disruptions to your travel.

  • Arranging extra support for family members or pets who may need care if you are overseas longer than planned.

  • Remembering that if you are older or have pre-existing medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease), you may be more likely to become severely ill if you catch the virus.

  • Checking the latest public health advice in the destination (country-specific links are found further down this page).

  • For Australian travellers: Australia has a reciprocal health care agreement with Finland, Norway and Sweden, and therefore you are entitled to publicly funded medically necessary care in those countries.

  • Being prepared to fill out pre-registration forms when entering a country, detailing contact details, travel dates, all hotels and other accommodation during your travels, and information on where you have travelled recently, whether you have any potential symptoms, and whether you have been in contact with an infected individual.

WHAT MEASURES ARE AIRPORTS AND AIRLINES TAKING TO HELP PROTECT PASSENGERS AND STAFF?

Airlines are working hard to ensure your safety when travelling with them. Additional measures and requirements in place include:

• Additional flight screening at the airport to make sure you are fit to fly

• Contactless check-in options and self-serve bag drop

• Physical distancing reminders and markers

• Hand sanitation stations and kits (e.g. sanitation wipes) at airports and inside the planes

• Enhanced disinfection of surfaces, both at airports and inside planes

• Adjustments to food and drink service to minimise touchpoints for staff and passengers

• Depending on your airline, both passengers and staff are to wear facemasks or coverings

• Where possible, the middle seats will be left empty (however, this is subject to passenger numbers and may not always be possible). If you have a seat in the middle, you may be asked to move to a window or aisle seat instead.

Please see the article AIRLINES: Your Essential Post COVID-19 Health & Safety Guide for more information on each airline.

Please note that according to the World Health Organization (WHO) the risk of getting infected on board an aircraft, is lower than on the ground due to the carefully controlled air quality in aircrafts. Total air change takes place 20-30 times per hour and any recirculated air is passed through high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters also commonly used in hospital operating theatres and intensive care units. 

IS IT SAFE TO TRAVEL TO SCANDINAVIA AND THE WIDER NORDIC REGION RIGHT NOW?

Most countries in the Nordic region have opened borders between carefully selected nations, and you can feel confident that once you are allowed to go (according to your country of origin and the destination), it is safe enough to do so – provided that you continue to adhere to precautionary guidelines, such as frequent hand-washing and social distancing. Travellers also need to respect any local regulations in place.

WHAT MEASURES ARE IN PLACE TO KEEP TRAVELLERS SAFE WHILE IN DESTINATION?

These are some of the commonly adopted measures that are in place in the Nordics:

• Sick people are required to stay at home

• Recommended distance between people is 1-2 meters

• Good hand hygienic is a must

• Queues (at reception, toilets, activities) are usually organised so that each person is at least 1m apart from those behind and in front of them

• Preferred payment method is contact free, i.e. credit cards

• Group sizes are kept small

• All decorative items that can’t be washed will be removed from hotel rooms

• Employers will be cleaning between guests and during the day

• Rental equipment will be cleaned between guests

• Recommendations on busses: Handle your own luggage, use the back door. The first two seats are to be kept vacant to ensure the safety of the driver. Only 50% occupancy is preferred in order to keep appropriate distance between passengers

WHAT TRAVEL RELATED RESTRICTIONS ARE IN PLACE IN SCANDINAVIA AND THE WIDER NORDIC REGION?

Countries in the EU and EEA (European Economic Area) have agreed on a coordinated approach to the restriction of free movement in response to the coronavirus pandemic. This includes a colour code (green / orange / yellow / grey) for the classification of regions based on the coronavirus situation there. They have also agreed on common criteria that they should apply when deciding whether to introduce travel restrictions and a common approach for travelers from ‘red areas’ (testing and quarantine). Therefore, if you reside in a country outside of the EEA, one highly useful place to get an overview of the situation as well as checking the status of border restrictions and vaccination certifications is the European Union’s Re-open EU site.

Currently, the EU recommends that member states should allow entry to the residents and citizens of the following “third countries” (non-EU/EEA):

  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • Rwanda
  • Singapore
  • South Korea
  • Thailand
  • China, Hong Kong and Macao subject to confirmation of reciprocity

Country-specific information and links are provided below.

Iceland

NEWS: All those who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 will be allowed to travel to Iceland without being subject to border measures, such as quarantine. This includes citizens outside the Schengen area, such as the UK and the USA! From the 26 July, vaccinated travellers need to show a negative PCR or antigen test at the start of their journey to Iceland. The antigen test usually costs much less than the PCR test and is offered in the departure area of many international airports with results ready in about 15 minutes. The test must be done no more than 72 hours before arrival in Iceland (at boarding).

Individuals who have not been vaccinated or overcome an infection must present a negative PCR test prior to boarding (can not use an antigen test).

Testing and quarantine of children: Children born in 2005 or later shall be tested at the borders. A child who travels with an individual who is subject to stay in quarantine shall stay with that person and can leave the quarantine if the second test of its co-traveller is negative. When the co-traveller is not required to stay in quarantine the same shall apply to the child. A child travelling alone is not required to stay in quarantine. While waiting for the test results the child needs to follow the rules for quarantine.

However, before booking / travelling to Iceland, please check the latest regarding COVID-19 and travelling to Iceland.

Finland

In line with the Government decision of Monday 15 July, persons who are able to present a certificate of a completed and approved COVID-19 vaccine course before entry can arrive in Finland from all countries starting on Monday 26 July 2021.

People travelling to Finland must take into account that a certificate of recovery from COVID-19 is an acceptable justification for entry into the country only for citizens of the EU and Schengen countries and for people residing in an EU or Schengen country.

However, due to frequent changes in Finland’s policies, please check Visit Finland’s latest advice regarding COVID-19 and travelling to Finland.

Also, if you are travelling to Finland, the FINENTRY site provides travellers with information and instructions on self-quarantine and coronavirus testing (including a link to make a booking for a test).

Norway

The Norwegian Government has implemented a three stage plan to ease travel entry restriction for international travellers to Norway. In short, Norway is now open to all travellers in the EU or Schengen Area, and “purple countries” such as Australia and New Zealand. Currently, residents of the United States are not permitted to enter Norway, but further announcements are expected in the second half of October so stay tuned!

See this map for more details on exemptions.

Also check the latest info regarding COVID-19 and travelling to Norway.

Sweden

The Government has decided to re-introduce a ban on entry to Sweden to prevent the virus that causes COVID-19 entering the country or being spread to other countries.

A temporary entry ban for entry from EU/EEA States and certain other states has been in force since February. As of 30 June, the Swedish regulation has been adapted to the EU regulation on a COVID certificate. This entails an entry ban on travel to Sweden from EU/EEA States unless a vaccination certificate, a test certificate, a certificate confirming recovery from COVID-19 or a corresponding certificate can be presented. The Government has decided to extend this regulation until 31 October 2021.

Entry from Denmark, Finland, Iceland and Norway is not subject to any entry restrictions.

A temporary ban on non-essential travel from countries outside the EU/EEA to Sweden, introduced following a call from the European Council and the European Commission, has been in effect since March 2020. Since February, the ban has included a requirement to present a certificate verifying a negative COVID-19 test result for entry into Sweden. To travel to Sweden from countries outside the EU/EEA, you must be covered by at least one of the exemptions from the entry ban and also be able to present a negative COVID-19 test or be exempt from the test requirement. The Government has decided to extend the travel ban until 31 October 2021

See the latest regarding COVID-19 and travelling to Sweden from Krisinformation
and Visit Sweden.

Denmark

Fully vaccinated persons who are permanent residents of orange or yellow countries (currently UK, USA, Canada, EU and AU/NZ are in this category) are no longer required to present a negative test or have a worthy purpose for travelling to Denmark, and they are exempt from the testing and isolation requirements on entering Denmark.

However, due to the frequent changes to allowed / banned nationalities, please check the updated entry rules for Denmark.

Also see the latest regarding COVID-19 and travelling to Denmark.

Greenland

From June 01, 2021, travel was reopened to Greenland with access from Denmark and Iceland. From 10 August, only fully vaccinated persons may travel to Greenland. Persons with residence in Greenland are exempt. Fully vaccinated persons are not required to quarantine or re-test upon arrival to Greenland.

Children between the age of 2 and 11 years are required to follow the same travel restrictions as their adult travel companions. This means that if the adult travel companion is fully vaccinated the children can also be retested the day after arrival to Greenland.

Note that you must have received the vaccination’s final injection at least 14 days prior to travel in order to be considered ‘fully vaccinated’.

See the latest regarding COVID-19 and travelling to Greenland.

Faroe Islands

The Faroe Islands’ authorities have announced that travelers who have fully received an approved COVID-19 vaccine are no longer required to quarantine for 6 days upon arrival in the Faroe Islands. You are considered fully vaccinated if the vaccine has been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and it has been at least 2 weeks and no longer than 12 months after the vaccination process has been completed.

For EU and Schengen travellers who are not vaccinated, self-quarantine has been removed however, this depends on the country you are coming from.

As of September 1st, 2021, the travel recommendations are as follows:

  • Test up to 48 hours before departure to the Faroe Islands
  • Test two days after arrival to Faroe Islands
  • Travellers are encouraged to avoid large crowds and to be extra careful until the result from their second day test is available

See the latest regarding COVID-19 and travelling to the Faroe Islands.

Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania

All three Baltic countries have reopened their borders for tourists and have lifted quarantine requirements at entry for tourists who can present a certificate confirming the completion of vaccination or recovery from covid-19!

Travelling to Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania is possible for the following persons:
• Citizens and residents of the European Union, the Schengen area, the United Kingdom, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and Vatican and asymptomatic individuals with a long-stay visa and their family members.
• Citizens of countries recommended by the Council of the European Union: Australia, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Rwanda, Thailand, Singapore.

For vaccinated persons and persons who have recovered from covid-19:
• Covid-19 test before the flight and when entering Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania – not required;
• Self-isolation when entering Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania – not required;
• International certificate or document proving the vaccination or recovery from covid-19 or EU Digital Covid Certificate – required;
• The electronic questionnaire must be filled before the actual arrival to Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.

If you aren’t fully vaccinated or are recovering from covid, please ask us for further details.

See the full list of countries and restrictions for Estonia.

Also see the latest regarding COVID-19 and travelling to Estonia.

Check the latest regarding COVID-19 and travelling to Latvia.

See the latest regarding COVID-19 and travelling to Lithuania.

Russia

It is our understanding that citizens from Switzerland, South Korea, Turkey, Serbia, Japan, United Saudi Emirate, Egypt, and Cuba can travel to Russia, however they will need a tourist visa and a negative coronavirus test made under 48 hours before arrival.

See the latest regarding COVID-19 and travelling to Russia from the Russian Embassy in the UK and from the waytorussia travel guide.

Additional info

For an overview of the situation per country, especially the 14-day case average per 100,000 people per country (within Europe), please see the data at the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.

IF I BOOK A TRIP WITH 50 DEGREES NORTH, WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF MY TRAVEL PLANS NEEDED TO CHANGE?

Rebooking can be done up to 18 months into the future if the postponement request is due to forced amendments (e.g. closed borders). In this case, the full deposit will be held in credit or transferred to a new booking, provided that we have not incurred any unrecoverable costs with some of the suppliers.

If the booking is cancelled by you for other reasons, the deposit is usually non-refundable and our normal booking conditions will apply. However, see our Book with Confidence page for more details on flexible booking conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also note that some exceptions / special terms and conditions are also available in some cases. Please contact our team to find out more.

We recommend purchasing a “cancel for any reason” travel insurancy policy.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I TEST POSITIVE FOR CORONAVIRUS AFTER ARRIVAL?

If a passenger tests positive, they may be offered to undergo further tests to determine whether they have an active infection. In this case, the passenger must self-isolate and provide detailed information on who they have come in close contact with, up to two days before the onset of their symptoms.

Needless to say, you will not be able to travel home until you are fully recovered. However, medical care in the Nordics is first class and you would be in good hands should you require treatment.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT WHEN RETURNING TO MY HOME COUNTRY?

In many cases, you are expected to provide contact details and quarantine / self-isolate for 14 days.

You should check the latest public health advice in your home country both before travelling and upon your return (links at the start of the page).

IMPORTANT NOTE – DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY:
It is a requirement that you hold a valid passport and any required visas for your trip. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of the necessary documentation to comply with the laws and regulations of the countries to be visited. It is your responsibility to obtain vaccinations and preventative medicines as may be required for the duration of the trip.
The information contained on this page is provided in good faith, and is collated from various official sources. Every effort has been made to provide information that is accurate. However, materials contained above are subject change at any time by concerned authorities. We accept no liability or responsibility to any person as a consequence of any reliance upon the information contained above.

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German Vaccine Authorization Form
Click Here to Download the German Vaccine Authorization Form

This is a mandatory document that must be signed by all Visa applicants for Short Term Visa ( Business & Tourist)

Germany removes India from the list of high-risk areas

Germany no longer considers India a country with a significantly elevated risk of infection- Requirements for Entry: travelers must either show that they are fully vaccinated, fully recovered, or have tested negative prior to departure

Disclaimer : All news and updates are correct to the best of our knowledge, please verify the same. Cirrus Travels does not take responsibility for authenticity.