Coronavirus Prompts Multiple Border Closures

The ongoing COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic has prompted many major meeting and incentive destinations to announce new border controls. Here are some notable ones to keep track of. 

Europe

On Tuesday, leaders of the European Union (EU) agreed to close the area’s borders to most foreign travelers, effective immediately, according to the Associated Press. The ban is set to last for 30 days, and it will apply to all 27 EU member states. Citizens of Switzerland, Liechtenstein, the UK and Norway are exempt. 

Central and South America

According to Reuters, the following destinations in Central and South America have announced new restrictions and border closures:

  • On Sunday Argentina announced it will close its borders to non-residents for 15 days, and it has temporarily stopped issuing visas to travelers from the United States
  • Peru has closed its borders for 15 days, including air and sea transport.
  • Panama is only allowing citizens and foreign residents to enter the country. 
  • Honduras has closed its borders for a week, except for the movement of goods. 

Additionally, Chile has closed all land, sea and air borders as of Wednesday, March 18. Cruise ships will also be denied docking at Chilean ports through September 30. 

Caribbean

  • All incoming flights in Curaçao are canceled with the exception of flights carrying local residents in the possession of a valid retour-ticket and a sedula.
  • The Dominican Republic will be closing its borders by land, sea and air effective Thursday, March 19, for the next 15 days.
  • All persons arriving in Jamaica, regardless of destination of origin, are subject to self-quarantine for 14 days.
  • Additionally, Aruba, the Cayman IslandsSt. Maarten and Trinidad are totally closed to international visitors for two to four weeks, effective Monday, March 16. 

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