Some Countries Closing, Others Reopening for Travel

With the COVID-19 pandemic still surging, some countries are closing their borders to travelers in an attempt to slow the spread. Conversely, other countries have begun to lift bans and reopen their borders to travelers. Here is a deep dive into the specific travel restrictions imposed by various countries.

North America

Most North American countries have imposed travel restrictions, such as Canada, which has closed its borders to all non-essential travel. Mexico also closed its U.S.-Mexico border to non-essential travel, and the U.S. requires that everyone entering the country by plane presents a negative COVID-19 test taken within the last three days before their departure.

South America

Several countries in South America have restrictions on entering. For example, Venezuela closed their borders and suspended all commercial flights. Uruguay, Suriname, French Guiana, Chile, and Argentina are also among some of the countries that have put restrictions on outside travel. However, a few countries––including Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, and Paraguay––have reopened most or all commercial flights.

Central America

In Central America, many countries have already reopened their borders to some or all international travelers. Still, most require individuals to show a negative coronavirus test result or fill out a health form. Among these countries are: Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Panama. Nicaragua currently has no entry restrictions in place.

Europe

Due to the discovery of new coronavirus strains in Europe, many countries have re-closed their borders or imposed travel restrictions. For example, France and Italy have banned most non-essential international travel. Others, such as Germany, have not banned international travel, although it is strongly discouraged. A few countries, such as Greece and Israel, are now permitting travel for those who are vaccinated. The UK has not closed its borders, but it is mandatory for travelers to present a negative COVID-19 test before departing. Individuals also must take two tests after arriving.

Africa

Many of Africa’s countries have implemented travel bans or restrictions due to rising coronavirus case numbers, including Morocco, which has restricted travel from most other countries. However, some African countries have already reopened their borders, including Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, Angola, and Zimbabwe. Most still require travelers to provide a negative test result before flying.

Asia

Most commercial flights to China have resumed, though some cities are closed to travelers from high risk areas. South Korea also resumed commercial flights, but travelers need to show a negative test result. Others, such as Thailand and Taiwan, remain closed to everyone except permanent residents and returning nationals. Japan has closed its borders to 152 countries, the Philippines has closed to around 30, and Saudi Arabia has closed to 20 countries. 

Oceania

Australia remains closed to international travelers. Shockingly, according to the US Embassy, Samoa currently has no confirmed COVID-19 cases. Its borders are open to international travel, but you must provide a negative COVID-19 test before flying.

The countries mentioned are just a few of many countries that have instituted restrictions on travel.