Despite the country being immersed in a global pandemic which demands people to keep their distance from each other, the Home Affairs Department’s e-services portal has been shut since the start of the lockdown in March.

Johannesburg – Despite the country being immersed in a global pandemic which demands that people their distance from each other, the Home Affairs Department’s e-services portal has been shut since the start of the lockdown in March.

On Friday, the department announced more services which would resume, but none of them included the utilisation of its e-HomeAffairs services portal, where people can apply for IDs and passports.

Home Affairs spokesperson Siya Qoza said the electronic service portal was closed in March because the department was not taking any ID or passport applications at the moment – except for first-issue smart card or green bar-coded ID documents – mostly for matric pupils.

He said the e-services portal was only used to apply for ID documents and passports and because the department was not yet offering those services, it would be futile to open the e-HomeAffairs service.

He said the department was operating at a reduced capacity with limited staff members to reduce risk.

When asked why Home Affairs had not altered its e-HomeAffairs service to include those services that were being offered, Qoza said it would make little difference as people still needed to go to a bank or home affairs branch to complete the process.

“We need to comply with the requirements of keeping staff members numbers low,” he said, explaining why ID, passport or e-HomeServices applications were not allowed.

Meanwhile, the department said it would release a statement next week to clarify its position on some of the services that would be returning under level 2.

Earlier on Friday, Home Affairs said it was resuming services for applications of first-issue green bar-coded identity documents or smart ID cards, applications for smart ID cards or green bar-coded IDs by people who had been issued with a temporary ID certificate during the national state of disaster that had expired; applications for amendments of personal particulars, applications for rectification of personal particulars, back office records retrieval services, and applications for citizenship.

Home Affairs said it was also extending the expiry date until October 31, 2020, for all temporary identity certificates issued during the period of the national state of disaster.

During the level 3 of the lockdown, which ended on Monday night, Home Affairs had resumed services for the registration of birth, re-issuing of birth certificates, late birth registrations, marriage services, death certificates, temporary identity document certificates, collection of IDs and passports for essential goods cross-border transporters.

All services permitted under level 3, 4, and 5, will be permitted during level 2.

www.samigration.com

Where can Americans and U.S. passport holders travel right now? Here’s a full list of countries that have reopened their borders for American tourists.

American travelers are eagerly wondering what countries and cities they can travel to right now, should they choose to!

The good news? As many countries start to relax restrictions and reopen borders, many are now accepting tourists from the United States.

The bad news? Since the United States has been the hardest hit nation, some countries are flat out saying “No!” to American visitors, even though their borders are now re-open to other countries.

We’ve compiled all the details of where Americans can currently travel domestically and internationally. As rules continuously change, destinations may suddenly reopen or close to American tourists without notice, so readers need to check with local authorities before booking a trip to ensure entry.

If you are looking for transit rules for Americans, you can find that info in our “Airports in Europe Allowing Americans to Transit” guide.

Please note: Travel Off Path does not endorse travelling against any advisories set by the government. Your decision to travel is your own.

Before we get to the list of countries, let’s clear the air about something else:

Are Americans Allowed To Travel Right Now?

Yes. The U.S. government has recently lifted the blanket level-4 “Avoid All Travel” advisory, and American’s have always been permitted to leave the country as they wish. However, upon returning to the U.S. some travelers may face a 14-day quarantine, based on the state. Some states have no quarantine requirements.

Americans should also ensure they have a travel insurance policy in place that covers covid.

Where Can Americans Travel Internationally Right Now?

Here is the full list of countries currently open to receiving U.S. tourists. (We are only covering countries that do NOT require a quarantine period on this list)

(updates week of August 17)
Recent Countries Added: Montenegro, Ecuador, Armenia, Honduras
Recent Countries Updated:  USVI, Costa Rica (allowing American’s from 6 states only)
Recent Relevant Articles: Countries open to Americans WITH a 14-day Quarantine

Albania

Albania has reopened borders and is now allowing American tourists as of July 1, 2020.

Currently they are just taking temperatures at the airport, but no testing or quarantine periods are necessary.

Read all the details about Albania’s reopening for tourism

Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda reopened to Americans on June 4, 2020.

Upon arrival, American tourists will have to take a covid test at the cost of $100 USD.

Direct flights have already started from Miami on American in June.  Come July, New York on JetBlue and Atlanta on Delta will also be flying to Antigua directly.

See all the details for Antigua and Barbuda’s reopening

Armenia

Armenia has reopened for Americans to visit as of August 12

While the country does require a 14-day quarantine, they DO allow testing to leave quarantine early, so we were happy to add it to this list!

Arrivals can go straight to their hotel/rental from the airport, and order a mobile testing unit to come to them, take a PCR test, and upon negative results, leave isolation!

Here are all the entry requirements and tips for visiting Armenia 

Aruba

Aruba is reopening to American tourists on July 10th.

U.S. citizens will have to fill out an online health declaration form and upload a negative covid PCR test 72 hours before boarding. This way, no test needs to be done upon arrival.

Some great direct flights from the US to Aruba include: from New York on United and JetBlue, from Atlanta on Delta, and from Miami on American.

Here is everything you need to know about Aruba reopening for American tourists.

Bahamas

Important update August

Americans CAN travel to Bahamas right now, but require PCR testing AND a 14-day quarantine, which make it for a very hard vacation spot.

After being allowed in July, and then banned, and now allowed again, the Bahamas has had many confusing updates for American tourists.

Original Bahamas Info…

The Bahamas are reopening for U.S. tourists on July 1st, 2020.

A negative-PCR test no older than 10 days before arrival is required and travellers are asked to fill out an online health declaration before they fly.

There are tons of direct flights to the Bahamas from all over the US. Flying from Miami just takes 50 minutes! Other direct flights can be found from New York, Houston, Chicago, Atlanta, Denver, Charlotte, and Orlando.

See all the details about the Bahamas reopening to American tourists.

Barbados

Barbados is reopening for American tourists on July 12th, 2020.

Travelers from the United States are considered ‘high-risk’, so they will need to bring a negative-PCR test no older than 72 hours before departure.

Update Aug: Stricter entry rules and requirements have been implemented since first reopening.

Direct flights resuming from the USA-

• New York on JetBlue starting July 25
• Miami on American starting Aug 5
• Charlotte on American starting Aug 5

See all the details about the Barbados reopening to American tourists.

Belarus

Belarus has reopened for American tourists!

The small landlocked nation in Eastern Europe might not be the tourism hotspot of the world, but another option for Americans looking to reunite with loved ones abroad.

They are accepting over 75 nations with no quarantine, and a 48-hour PCR test has been ‘recommended’ at this point (of course, we’ve reached out and will update if we hear back that its mandatory)

Read more about Belarus reopening for tourism

Bermuda

Bermuda is officially reopening for American tourists on July 1st.

To be able to head down for a vacation, Americans will need to bring a negative covid PCR test no older than 72 hours before boarding AND take another test upon arrival.

Direct flights take just over 2 hours from many US cities! From Atlanta on Delta is 2.45 hrs starting in July, while JetBlue flies from Boston and New York in 2.15 hrs starting in August.

We have all the details about Bermuda’s reopening for tourism here

Brazil

Brazil is now open for American tourists!

In a surprise move, Brazil reopened its borders, basically without any restrictions, and is allowing American tourists to visit as of July 30, 2020.

Brazil is only asking visitors to have valid travel insurance that covers covid, and a visa, however US citizens no longer need a visa to visit Brazil for up to 90 days.

Direct flights are available in August from: NYC, Miami, Atlanta, Houston.

Read all the details on Brazil Reopening for Tourism

Costa Rica

Costa Rica announced that as of September 1st, they will now allow Americans from 6 states to enter.

Travelers will also need proof of a negative PCR test, taken (with results) no older than 48 hours prior to departure.

Read Costa Rica’s reopening information here

Croatia

Croatia officially reopened for American tourists on July 1st.

Americans need to fill out an online form before going, and show proof of accommodation or tourist-based activity .

Update: Croatia is now requiring Americans to bring a negative-PCR test.

See all the info about Croatia’s reopening, including the forms for Americans.

Dominica

Dominica is reopening for American tourists starting on August 7, 2020

US residents will have to bring a negative PCR test no older than 72 hours before boarding, fill out an online questionnaire, and agree to a rapid test upon arrival.

See all of Dominica’s reopening details and entry requirements

Dominican Republic

On July 1st, U.S. tourists can travel to the Dominican Republic. 

As of July 30th, the Dominican Republic is now requiring visitors to present a negative COVID-19 test result before being allowed to enter the country.

Miami, Atlanta, New York, Dallas, Fort Lauderdale, Boston, Charlotte, and Miami all show direct flights in July and August and will increase throughout the year.

See everything we know about the Dominican Republic’s reopening for tourism

Ecuador

Ecuador has now reopened for American tourists

As of August 16, Americans can now travel to Ecuador WITHOUT quarantine, as long as they bring a negative PCR test, no older than 10 days.

Direct flights from Miami, Houston and New York have already resumed into Quito and Guayaquil

See everything we know about Ecuador reopening for tourism

Egypt

Egypt reopened borders on July 1, 2020

We originally did not include Egypt in this list, because of lack of official government information if American tourists were in fact permitted entry or not.

Now, this update is more loose than we like to publish, but we thought important to share:
An American friend of ours (not an essential traveler, just a tourist) travelled from the US to Egypt on August 6th, no test needed, no quarantine measures, not even a temperature check. He said entry was far easier than he ever could have expected.

Based on his itinerary, we would like to share that at this time Egypt seems to be accepting American tourists with no restrictions. However, please contact local authorities before you go to ensure rules have not changed.

See everything we know about Egypt Reopening

French Polynesia (Tahiti & Bora Bora)

French Polynesia (think Bora Bora, Mo’orea and Tahiti) will reopen for American tourists on July 15, 2020.

U.S citizens must bring a negative covid PCR test before boarding the flight and they will be tested again on arrival.

San Francisco and Los Angeles both fly directly to Tahiti and Bora Bora in 8 hours. (On airlines United, FrenchBee, Air Tahiti and Air France)

Here is everything you need to know about French Polynesia reopening to American tourists.

Grenada

On Aug 1, 2020 Grenada will start accepting American tourists.

The beautiful island nation in the Caribbean currently has zero cases, and they want to keep it that way.

Entry requirements are TOUGH for Americans and include 2 PCR tests, contact tracing, health declaration forms and more.

Flights restart from Miami and New York in late August.

Read more about Grenada reopening for American tourists

Haiti

Haiti reopened for tourism on July 1, but it took us a while to get confirmation!

Many of you know I don’t put countries on here that require a 14-day quarantine, but I have been getting mixed reports about Haiti. Some sources say it’s there, while others say it’s not. Please check before you go!

Otherwise, only a temperature check and a health declaration card will be the only entry requirements.

Flights have already restarted from Miami and New York, and many resorts have just reopened their doors.

Read more about Haiti reopening for American tourists

Honduras

Honduras has reopened for Americans as of August 17

US tourists will need to bring proof of a negative covid test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival, but it can be either a PCR -or- a Rapid Test. (The only nation we know accepting rapid tests!) 

Direct flights have already resumed, we have all the flight paths in the link below.

Read more about Honduras reopening for American tourists

Jamaica

Jamaica reopened for American tourists on June 15th!

Jamaica is requiring all American’s visiting to first fill out an online Travel Authorization Card before they fly and they will be testing arrivals at the airport.

American Airlines resumed flights from Miami starting June 24th, Jetblue from New York starting June 25th, and Delta from Atlanta starting June 23rd.

Read more about what Jamaica is requesting from inbound American tourists 

Maldives

The Maldives are officially reopening on July 15th and accepting American tourists at that time.

While there are no mandatory testing or quarantine protocols in effect at the moment, U.S. travelers will have their temperatures taken at the airport and be expected to fill out a health declaration card. Pretty easy!

Here is everything else we know about the Maldives reopening to American tourists

Mexico

Mexico is now open for U.S. passport holders! In fact, it was one of the only countries that never actually really closed its borders to Americans in the first place.

No tests needed.

As of June, many tourist cities like Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, Tulum, Cabo, and Puerto Vallarta have reopened their hotels and are ready to welcome American guests.

Flights by American Airlines, Spirit, Sun Country, United and JetBlue have resumed from many American cities.

See all the detailed information about Mexico’s reopening for US tourists here.

Montenegro

Montenegro is finally open for American tourists!

On August 15th, Montenegro lifted the quarantine restriction for tourists from the USA, and is only requiring a 72 hour PCR test -or- a specific type of positive antibody test! (details at the link below)

Read more information on Montenegro reopening for tourism 

North Macedonia

North Macedonia is now accepting American travelers as of July 1

No tests needed. No quarantine. 

The US does not fly directly into North Macedonia, but some EU airlines WILL allow transit. You must call the airline and the airport to see if you can transit through.
Turkey or Serbia is another way to transit, as both accept Americans.

See all the detailed information about North Macedonia’s Reopening

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is officially reopening its borders for tourism on July 15th, 2020 – and of course Americans are welcome.

Negative-PCR tests are needed to gain access to the island.

July 21 Update: Due to a surge in cases since reopening Puerto Rico is encouraging only essential travel at this time and has postponed its official inbound tourism reopening in order to safeguard visitors and residents.

See more about entry requirements and all the details for Puerto Rico’s reopening

Rwanda

Rwanda has officially reopened for tourism as of June 17, 2020 and is allowing American tourists to visit.

Americans will need to bring a negative-PCR test taken at most 72 hours before arrival and be ready to be tested again upon arrival.

There are currently no direct flights from the USA, but RwandAir is looking into creating a direct NYC to Kigali route.

Here’s all the details about Rwanda’s reopening

Serbia

Serbia reopened to American tourists on May 22, 2020

Where is Serbia? It’s a landlocked European nation that borders Montenegro, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania.

New York flies direct on Air Serbia to Belgrade, Serbia’s capital city daily.

Read all the details about Serbia’s reopening for tourism

St. Barths

St.Barths officially reopened its borders for tourism on June 22, 2020 and is allowing American tourists to visit!

Saint Barthelemy, or St. Barths as it’s commonly called, is a beautiful French-speaking Caribbean island known for its white-sand beaches, luxurious hotels, duty-free shopping and stunning views.

American’s only need to bring a negative PCR test with them to be admitted. Flights to St. Barths happen directly from San Juan.

Here is everything you need to know about St. Barth’s Reopening

St Lucia

The beautiful island nation of Saint Lucia reopened for US travellers on June 4th.

Americans are required to fill out an online form, bring a negative covid test, taken no longer than 7 days before departure in order to board their flight to Saint Lucia.

Direct Flights: from Atlanta on Delta, from Miami on American, and from New York on United and JetBlue.

Here is everything else you need to know about Saint Lucia’s reopening for Americans.

St. Maarten

Update July 1, 2020 – St. Maarten has decided to postpone all flights from the USAuntil July 14th, when it will review again. At this time, Americans are NOT welcome on the island. We will update again on July 14.

Update July 15: St. Maarten now states they plan to resume flights from the USA on August 1, 2020

*Update July 30, 2020: The government of St. Maarten has confirmed that the Princess Juliana Airport will reopen for flights coming from the USA on August 1st. 

St. Maarten is officially reopening for international tourism on July 1^st 

The minister of tourism stated: “the country is ready to receive travelers from Europe and North America as of July 1^st”which means the USA is included.

Direct flights from Miami, NYC, Charlotte, Atlanta, Fort Lauderdale and San Juan are already scheduled starting July 4th.

Here’s everything we know about St.Maarten reopening to American tourists.

St. Vincent and The Grenadines

St. Vincent and the Grenadines are officially reopening for tourism on July 1, 2020 allowing American tourists to visit.

U.S. citizens will be tested upon arrival.

Direct flights from New York on Caribbean Air start on July 15 and flights from Miami on American Airlines start July 11.

Tanzania 

Tanzania reopened to American tourists at the start of June.

Fancy a safari? Or how about climbing Mount Kilimanjaro? Maybe just laying on the white sandy beaches of Zanzibar? The African nation of Tanzania will allow tourists to come and do all of the above.

Update August 1:
The Tanzanian Health Ministry put out a directive stating all travelers entering Tanzania are now required to present a valid negative PCR test within 72 hours before travel.

Note: There are no direct flights from the USA to Tanzania.

Read more about Tanzania reopening and what there is to do there.

Turkey

As of June 12th, Turkey has now reopened for American tourists.

Under normal ‘pre-covid’ travel rules, Americans need to obtain an e-visa before traveling to Turkey. The visa centres are back up and running to process these.

Direct flights have resumed from 7 American cities already!

At this time, no mandatory testing is required.

See all the details about Turkey reopening 

Turks and Caicos

Turks & Caicos will reopen for Americans on July 22.

US travelers can head down to the Turks and Caicos late July, but only by flying in, as the cruise ports are staying closed until at least September.

A negative-PCR test is required before arrival.

Many cities fly directly into Turks and Caicos, including: New York, Charlotte, Houston, Miami, Atlanta, and Chicago.

Read more about the Turks and Caicos reopening for tourism

UAE (Dubai)

Dubai, UAE is officially reopening its borders for U.S. tourists on July 7, 2020.

American’s need to: register their ‘health declaration’ on an app before their trip, bring a negative PCR test within 96 hours of boarding, and have health insurance to be able to enter.

Emirates is flying directly to Dubai from Los Angeles, Chicago, New York and Washington starting in July.

Read more about Dubai’s reopening for tourism, plus which hotels have reopened.

Ukraine

Ukraine is now allowing US citizens entry, of course with some entry requirements. 

Since Americans are now on the ‘Red Country List’ they will need to: download a health app before arrival, have proof of insurance that covers covid, take a PCR test within 24 hours of arrival at an authorized lab, and quarantine 12-48 hours while pending results.

Update: As of August 1, US residents can also bring a negative PCR test within 48 hours of arrival to bypass the above requirements.

The NYC to Kyiv flight has not yet resumed, but Americans can transit through a few airports 

Read more about Ukraine’s reopening for tourism 

US Virgin Islands

On June 1, 2020 the US Virgin Islands (think St. Croix and St. Thomas) have reopened for tourism. American’s don’t even need a passport to go!

U.S. citizens can fly to the USVI’s directly from Atlanta, Miami, New York, Houston, Charlotte or Fort Lauderdale.

As of July 10 they have recently updated entry requirements. If you are from a state with over 10% infection rate, you MUST bring a negative PCR test with you.

**Important Update August 18: 
The USVI’s are shutting down tourism again due to a surge in cases. As of August 19th there is a 30-day prohibition on tourism, and a ‘stay at home’ order in full effect. We will update in 1-month to see if they reopen again.

Here’s more on the entry requirements on our USVI’s reopening post

The USA!

Sounds crazy to mention, but many states in the USA are open for tourism! If you don’t want to travel out of the country just yet, try exploring your own.

Major US Attractions That Have Reopened:

Las Vegas Casinos

Universal Studios Orlando

Grand Canyon

New York Central Park

Niagara Falls

Yellowstone National Park

Times Square

Golden Gate Bridge

Countries that WILL SOON Permit American Tourists:

These following countries are reopening to American tourists in the very near future:

Belize

Belize is reopening its borders to American tourists on August 15, 2020.

Travellers will have to fill out an online health form before they go and get a negative-PCR test 72 before departure or be prepared to be tested and wait for results on arrival.

Direct flights from Miami have already been scheduled to resume on August 18th with American Airlines. While not announced yet, more direct flights are expected to resume from New York, Chicago, Atlanta, Dallas and more.

Reopening Delayed 

The airport was originally scheduled to reopen on August 15th for international travel. However, on August 5th the prime minister of Belize announced that the reopening would be delayed until further notice. No new date has been set. If this affects your travel, we recommend contacting your hotel and airline.

Here’s everything else we know about Belize reopening for tourism

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka will reopen for American visitors on August 15.

Update July 24: Due to a surge in cases, Sri Lanka has postponed the reopening, but has not provided a new date.

As long as Americans agree to bringing a negative PCR test with them, and agree to have another test upon arrival, they can come for a vacation.

Read more details about Sri Lanka reopening for tourism

Countries that MAY Permit American Tourists:

These following countries may/ may not permit American tourists at this time. Some information is missing which we are trying to clarify for the purposes of this guide. We are currently looking into it and will put them on the main list once we have confirmation.

Bali

Breaking News Update:

The reopening of Bali to foreign tourists could be delayed until the end of 2020

Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment,  Luhut Binsar Panjaitan has stated that the reopening of Bali could be delayed until the end of 2020.

Originally Bali planned to reopen for American tourists on September 11, 2020.

After a lot of back and forth, the governor of Bali finally announced on June 17 that he will be reopening international tourism for the island. While no formal country list has been made, American citizens may be able to visit as of Sept 11.

Here is everything we know about Bali reopening to tourists

Malta

Malta Updates July 11:

The bad news – Malta just updated a larger list of countries now allowed to enter, however the USA is absent.

The good news – There are two ways Amerians can still go. 1) Email the border control to apply for an exception 2) Stay in one of the allowed countries for 14 days prior to entering Malta. (get more info by clicking the link below) 

Here is everything we know about Malta’s reopening.

Need to TRANSIT through an EU airport to get to a country that allows US citizens? We have all the info on which airports in Europe will allow Americans to transit through.

Read More: Learn about all of the countries reopening for tourism worldwide and Covid-19 travel insurance policies for Americans

Disclaimer: The above countries reopening news is ever-changing and being updated constantly. We do our best to keep this article up to date with all the latest information, but the decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and requirements before traveling.

www.samigration.com

Italy has now reopened for tourism and has recently updated the countries and nations that are permitted to visit, both with restrictions and without.

The Italian Tourism Board states:

“Italy’s tourism is ready to start again and to welcome tourists – Italians and foreigners – for the summer season.

It is now again possible to move freely within the whole country and use any normal service: museums and cultural centers, hotels, bars and restaurants have opened their doors; airports, railway stations and transport services are operational; campsites, mountain huts and beach resorts have made arrangements to safely welcome travelers.”

Italy officially reopened borders on June 3^rd, first allowing 26 European nations to visit without restrictions. Then on July 1^st, Italy further allowed the entry of select third-party nations outside the EU, but with different entry requirements.

Below we have compiled a guide with everything you need to know about travelling to Italy, which countries are allowed to visit, all entry requirements, and any other rules you need to know about.

Which countries are allowed to travel to Italy?

Below you will find 2 lists. One with the EU countries that can visit Italy, and one of third-party countries outside the EU that can now visit Italy.

Here is a list of EU/Schengen nations that can currently visit Italy with no restrictions:

• Andorra
• Austria
• Belgium
• Croatia*
• Cyprus
• Czech Republic
• Estonia
• Denmark
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece*
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Ireland
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta*
• Monaco
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• San Marino
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain*
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Vatican City

July 28 update: Both Romania and Bulgaria have been removed from the above list. Travelers who in the last 14 have spent time in either Romania or Bulgaria can still enter, but they now require a 14-day quarantine.

Third-Party Countries Allowed into Italy

A list of ‘approved safe’ countries was suggested by the EU to all EU members on June 30, 2020. The suggestion outlined that each EU member should consider allowing residents of those nations permission to enter for tourism starting on July 1.

Italy has accepted the suggestion by the EU, but has imposed a 14-day quarantine requirement for anyone traveling from those nations.

 The third-party nations now allowed entry into Italy (with quarantine) are:

• Australia
• Canada
• Georgia
• Japan
• Morocco
• New Zealand
• Rwanda
• South Korea
• Thailand
• Tunisia
• Uruguay

This list of countries is not final and can change. It is to be regularly updated, at least every two weeks. The quarantine requirement will also be reviewed every two weeks.

New Testing Requirements

As of August 13th, now certain EU nations require a PCR test to enter, due to a surge in cases in those areas.

For the purpose of containing the spread of the COVID-19 virus, to people who intend to enter Italy who have stayed or transited through Croatia, Greece, Malta, or Spain in the previous fourteen days, will be required to bring a negative PCR test within 72 hours of entry, or undergo a test upon arrival and isolate to await results.

Countries currently BANNED from entering Italy

The following travelers are banned from entering Italy if they have stayed or transited in the following countries: Armenia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Bosnia Herzegovina, Brazil, Chile, Kosovo, Kuwait, North Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Oman, Panama, Peru, Dominican Republic, Serbia. Flights have also been suspended from these destinations.

The EU also has a current travel ban in place for the USA.

This current ban is in effect until July 31 when it will be reviewed and either extended or removed.

Is entry into Italy based on physical location for the last 14-days, residency or nationality?

Entry into Italy is based on residency PLUS location for the past 14 days. Italy has approved entry for the above two lists of nation based on travelers being a resident of one of those nations, and have physically been in one of those nations for the last 14 days.

Does Italy have mandatory tests on arrival or quarantines?

Tests = No. For the approved countries listed above, at this time, there is no mandatory testing upon arrival into Italy

Quarantines = Maybe. For the list of third-party countries, a 14-day quarantine is required. For the list of the EU/Schengen nations, no quarantine is needed.

Passengers should expect a health screening from a border officer, as well as agree to temperature scans.

Other entry rules into Italy:

• Effective July 9^th, all foreigners travelling into Italy need to print, fill out, and carry a self-declaration form to show airline carriers and/or border police if stopped. The form can be found HERE
• All third-party nations that are required to quarantine, as a rule, must do so immediately after entering the country. You are only allowed to reach the address where you have chosen to self-isolate, by the shortest possible route and without using any means of public transport other than the means used to travel to Italy (for example, if you fly into Fiumicino Airport you are not allowed to catch a train into Rome or for any other destination).

Once I enter Italy, can I move freely within the country?

Yes, once approved entry tourists can move freely within the country, with the exception of four regions, for which registration on arrival is still required:

• Sardinia: you need to fill in an online form on the region’s website 48 hours before arriving.
• Sicily: you need to register on the Sicilia si cura website and/or through the app Sicilia SiCura (Play Store – Apple Store)
• Apulia: you need to fill in a self-report that you can download on the region’s website.
• Calabria: you need to fill an online form on the region’s website on Covid emergency.

Are masks mandatory in Italy?

Wearing of masks in indoor public spaces in required throughout Italy. It is not mandatory outdoors except in the event that you cannot keep a safety distance; the only exception is in Lombardy.

What is open in Italy?

• All hotels and accommodation facilities have reopened providing that a safety distance of one metre is guaranteed in all common areas
• Museums and other places of culture. See a list of all museums now reopen 
• All restaurants, pubs and bars
• All beaches with a 1 metre distance between others
• Access to parks, villas, playgrounds and public gardens is allowed. Outdoor recreational activities are allowed
• Gyms, swimming pools, sports centres and clubs
• All places of worship as long as social distancing of 1 meter is observed
• From the 15th of June, shows in theatres, concert halls, cinemas and other outdoor spaces are allowed. A maximum number of 1000 spectators for outdoor shows and 200 people for performances in closed places have been set.

Have Flights Resumed to Italy?

Yes, all major Italian airports are open and operational.

From Europe:
Countless flights are coming in and out of Italy from other European cities. Too many to list! Basically, every major European city has a daily direct flight.

From Canada:

• Toronto to Rome direct: Air Canada resumed on July 23, Air Transat resumed on July 27
• Montreal to Rome direct: Air Canada resumed on July 24

Can I transit through an Italian Airport?

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs states the foreign residents are permitted transit through Italian airports. Airport transits are allowed (for example, if travelling from Caracas to Frankfurt, with a stopover in Fiumicino), as long as you do not leave the airport. The self-declaration form must be filled out and made clear you are only transiting.

Are Travelers From the USA Allowed To Enter Italy?

No, not at this time, as the USA is still banned entry into EU nations.

There MAY be exceptions made for US residents who have property in Italy, an Italian spouse, and other essential travel situations. Any US citizen seeking an approval should contact the US consulate in Italy.

Read More:  See the complete list of all countries that have reopened for tourism worldwide, and travel insurance that covers covid

Sources: Italian Tourism Board / Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Health Declaration Form /

Disclaimer: Italy’s reopening news is ever-changing and being updated constantly. We do our best to keep this article up to date with all the latest information, but the decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling

www.samigration.com

• The personal details of 24 million South Africans have been leaked to an alleged fraudster.
• In theory, criminals could use these details to attempt to gain access to various accounts.
• South African banks are now starting to contact affect customers.
• They’re advising customers to change passwords – and not only banking ones.

The personal details of some 24 million South Africans, and nearly 800,000 businesses, have allegedly been stolen by a suspected fraudster, in one of the South Africa’s largest ever data breaches.

Your bank accounts are not at risk, say banks – but criminals could theoretically use these details to attempt to impersonate you, or trick you into giving them confidential information.

Standard Bank has also suggested you change your online banking password to be safe, as well as your social media passwords. (There is no reason to believe social media accounts can be compromised, but that is good housekeeping anyway, the bank says.)

The information was allegedly stolen from the credit bureau Experian, which collects credit information about consumers from banks, retailers, and other parties. According to Experian, the information was handed over to the fraudster after that individual posed as a legitimate client.

By law, banks are required to share your data with credit bureaus. That means that even if you haven’t interacted with Experian, your personal details and financial history may have been compromised. If so, you may be vulnerable to being impersonated.

If you think your identity has been compromised, then the number one thing you should do, according to the South African Banking Risk Centre (Sabric), is apply for a free registration at the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS).

According to Sabric, “This service alerts SAFPS members, which includes banks and credit providers, that your identity has been compromised and that additional care needs to be taken to confirm that they are transacting with the legitimate identity holder.”

You can apply here, or contact SAFPS at protection@safps.org.za“

In addition, a number of banks have used statements advising customers on what steps to take to ensure you’re not compromised.

Here’s what your bank says you should do.

Standard Bank

Standard Bank says some of its customer data was affected by the breach. “The information that has been compromised includes ID number, residential and physical addresses and contact details,” it says.

The Bank says you should take the following steps:

• Change banking passwords on our digital banking platforms and social media passwords.
• Register for DigiMe on the Standard Bank App Register for MyUpdates (free Standard bank SMS service) to be notified of all transactions over R100 on your accounts.
• Contact the bank or your relationship manager immediately if you suspect your bank accounts or cards have been compromised.
• Do not share your personal details, banking details or one-time pin with anyone.Register with SAFPS for protective registration – if anyone tries to apply for banking products with your ID, it will be declined or referred for further review.

Absa

Absa says it has also been affected and is contacting affected customers.

The banks says to contact them immediately on their Fraud Hotline (0860 557 557) should you notice any suspicious behaviour or if in doubt.

Criminals are likely to approach you via email, phone, or text message and present themselves as members of a reputable organisation

“They will attempt to deceive unsuspecting consumers into disclosing their ‘keys to the safe’ (online PIN, online passwords, card PIN, card CVV number, OTP, and/or authentication messages – RVN/TVN/SureCheck).”

“Never share these details with anyone and report suspicious behaviour immediately,” says the bank.

Capitec

The bank says they’re aware of the breach and are working closely with authorities to ensure their customers are protected.

“While the information cannot be used to access your banking profile, fraudsters may attempt to use it for phishing, where they contact you posing as your bank or other institution in an attempt to trick you into sharing further personal information,” says the bank. “Your bank will never contact you to request information such as your banking pin or account number.”

Capitec also suggests applying for a free registration at the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS), if you suspect your identity has been compromised.

First National Bank

FNB says it’s also reaching out to customers who may have been affected.

“We are working with The South African Banking Risk Information Centre (Sabric), The Banking Association of South Africa (BASA), law enforcement and regulatory authorities to mitigate any potential risks on our customers as a result of the incident.”

It gives the following advice:

• It is vitally important that you never give your Online Banking username and/or password to anyone.
• Never give your One Time PIN (OTP) to anyone.
• Never click on links in emails claiming to be from FNB.
• Never save your passwords to your browsers.

Nedbank

Nedbank says it’s been made aware of the breach and that “the information shared includes names, ID numbers, telephone numbers, physical and/or email addresses.”

“Your bank accounts are not at risk,” says Nedbank. But criminals can use this information to impersonate you, or scam you into giving them access to your accounts.

Nedbank urged its customers to take the following steps:

• Never share your passwords or PIN with anyone.
• Never disclose your personal information to anyone who calls you, emails you, or SMSs you.
• Remember Nedbank will never contact you asking for this information.
• Contact Nedbank immediately should you suspect unauthorised use of your personal information.

www.vsoftsystems.co.za

Repatriation flights are on the rise with many citizens anxiously waiting to return home from their travel destinations.

Do you need to book a repatriation flight or fly overseas for essential travel? We can assist you!

Book your essential flight with one of our travel agents

Our very own Country Manager of Travelstart Nigeria, Philip Akesson, a Swedish National, assisted the Swedish Embassy and representatives from consulates of the Nordic countries in getting 175 stranded Nordic citizens home. 

We chatted to Philip about his personal experience with repatriation flights. Here’s what he had to say:

 

Travelstart: What was your experience like? 

Philip: I was asked to assist at the airport to ensure that each passenger had the necessary documentation and to check them in for their flight. Since the usual airport staff were not on duty, it was up to the countries’ consulates and airline crew to carry out these tasks. 

This repatriation flight was a very successful collaboration between the Nordic countries. They all worked together to secure a chartered plane for their citizens and residents. Personally, it was a nice experience to be part of the collaboration and a great example of how countries can come together and solve challenges in difficult times!

Travelstart: Who is responsible for organising repatriation flights?

Philip: Repatriation flights are most often initiated by the home countries. To gauge the demand, embassies in the respective countries ask their citizens, as well as residents, to complete an online form if they’re interested in travelling back home. Government and embassy officials at home and abroad then work closely with the airlines and local authorities to gain the necessary approvals for a repatriation flight.

Travelstart: How does the process unfold?

Philip: The process can differ depending on the countries involved and the reason for why there is a demand for a repatriation flight in the first place. It’s also important to mention that repatriation flights are different from evacuation flights. For many repatriation flights during COVID-19, this is how the process has unfolded:

1.     The embassy of the respective countries sends a notification to its citizens asking who’s interested in being repatriated.

2.     Based on demand, the foreign ministry of the home country then contacts airlines and/or travel companies who can help facilitate a repatriation flight.

3.     Once a flight has been scheduled, the travel date and other terms are communicated to the stranded citizens. Since there are often a limited number of seats available, certain groups such as the elderly or those with medical or other needs are often prioritized. 

4.     The local embassy seeks approval from the departing country for landing permits and ensures that any other requirements are met.

5.     The embassies or travel companies involved typically send a link to book and pay to the prioritized passengers first. Remaining seats are then opened up to other travellers. 

Travelstart: Is there a lot of paperwork to fill out?

Philip: Additional paperwork is often required. In the case of our current COVID-19 situation, the embassies typically help out with documents stating that you are scheduled on a repatriation flight. This makes it easier to clear police checkpoints and get to the airport. If possible, the embassies can assist in getting passengers to the airport.

At the check-in counter, you might need to show evidence of citizenship, residence permit, hotel reservations or proof of onward journey to your end destination. The documents needed depend on the immigration requirements of the arrival country. For example, if you book a flight to London but your end destination is Germany, it’s important to confirm what immigration rules apply in the UK during COVID-19 to ensure that you will be allowed to board your flight to London.

 

Travelstart: How soon can you be repatriated after submitting an application?

Philip: There are many factors at play. The demand for a repatriation flight partly determines what options are commercially viable for the airlines and, also, how actively each country’s government initiates the repatriation. Additionally, these flights require permissions from the country of departure. All of this can take some time.

Travelstart: How much does a repatriation flight cost?

Philip: The price of the ticket varies greatly but I’ve heard that a common benchmark is around the normal price of Premium Economy. It’s important to note that the price the airline sets needs to be commercially viable which depends on a range of factors. These planes often fly without paying passengers one leg of the trip and during COVID-19 middle seats are often left empty. In addition, the cost of the crew may be higher than normal due to the increased risk.

Travelstart: Does travel insurance cover repatriation?

Philip: There is no standard answer as this depends completely on the insurance policy you have taken out. Given the global scale of this situation, many insurance companies may try to reduce their risk exposure. 

Travelstart: Which type of aircraft or airlines offer repatriation services?

Philip: It’s important to remember that repatriation flights are paid for by the passengers and they need to be commercially viable for the airlines. The number of passengers, distance travelled, and other factors mentioned above determine which airlines can offer their services and which of their aircraft would be most suitable. Carriers ranging from the global giants to lesser-known charter airlines have carried out repatriation flights from and to South Africa.

 

Important information for passengers being repatriated home:

Before boarding a flight, all passengers are subjected to pre-flight screening and if they present COVID-19 symptoms, they will not be allowed to board. 

Upon landing back in South Africa, passengers are subjected to onboard screening before they can disembark the plane, and are escorted to a quarantine facility where they will remain for 14 days.  

Numerous airlines have been involved in repatriating fellow South Africans back home from countries like Australia, the USA, UK, Brazil, Egypt, Italy, Germany and the Maldives, to name a few. To date, over 600 South Africans have successfully been repatriated, with over 3,000 in different parts of the world still waiting to get home. 

And there you have repatriation flights explained. Do you have any other questions regarding travel during COVID-19 or how to stay safe? Head on over to our Essential Travel page for all the latest information on what you need to book a domestic flight.