Bosnia and Herzegovina: Authorities maintaining COVID-19 restrictions as of May 13 /update 25

Bosnia and Herzegovina maintains COVID-19 restrictions as of May 13; international entry and domestic restrictions apply.

Event

Authorities continue to maintain measures imposed to limit the spread of COVID-19. Domestic measures vary between the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH) and the Republic Srpska (RS).

Authorities in FBiH have reduced the curfew period by two hours to 23:00-05:00. However, since May 12, the curfew has been abolished in West Herzegovina Canton. Residents in the remaining curfew-affected areas, which include Sarajevo Canton, must remain at home during curfew hours, except for those performing essential work or attending to health emergencies. Nonessential businesses in FBiH, including restaurants, bars, and shops, are open unless otherwise indicated, are subject to hygiene and social distancing requirements. Indoor and outdoor public gatherings are limited to 30 people. The use of facemasks and the practice of social distancing are required in indoor and outdoor public spaces where social distancing of two meters cannot be observed.

In the Republic Srpska, indoor gatherings are limited to 10 people, while outdoor gatherings may not exceed 30 persons. Many nonessential businesses are closed indefinitely. Essential businesses, such as grocery stores and fuel stations, may only operate 06:00-22:00. Facemasks must be worn in indoor public spaces and in outdoor public spaces where social distancing of two meters cannot be observed.

Foreign nationals are permitted to enter the country provided they possess documentation showing they have tested negative for COVID-19 using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test; the test must have been taken within 48 hours prior to arrival. Cabin crews, freight crews, diplomats, members of foreign militaries stationed in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and passengers transiting the country are not required to provide a negative test. Citizens of Croatia, Serbia, and Montenegro, as well as their immediate family members, can enter without a negative COVID-19 test, provided they are entering from their country of citizenship.

Restrictions may be extended or otherwise amended with little to no advance notice, depending on disease activity in the country.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.