Slovakia: Authorities extend and tighten COVID-19-related restrictions Feb. 8 /update 24

Slovakia extends and tightens COVID-19 measures Feb. 8. Significant business and transport disruptions continue.

Event

Authorities in Slovakia have extended or tightened certain measures imposed to slow the spread of COVID-19 as of Feb. 8. The country's nationwide state of emergency has been extended until March 19. A daily 20-hour 0500-0100 curfew remains in place until further notice; residents may only leave their homes to perform essential tasks. All persons needing to leave their homes to engage in essential work must have proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or antigen test. Additionally, authorities have extended the mandatory self-isolation period for persons suspected of contracting COVID-19; under the new directive, individuals must self-isolate for at least 10 days, after which they may take a PCR test. Those testing positive are required to self-isolate until they have recovered.

The following domestic measures also remain in effect:

Nonessential businesses and facilities are closed; businesses that are permitted to open must implement strict hygiene and social distancing measures.
Restaurants, cafes, and bars may only offer carryout services.
Facemasks are mandatory in all nonrural public spaces.

International entry restrictions also remain in force in Slovakia. Individuals arriving from EU countries, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Switzerland may produce proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test result in order to enter the country. Travelers from these locations who fail to produce a negative test must enter self-isolation for 14 days; however, a PCR test may be administered after eight days. These restrictions do not apply to citizens of neighboring countries commuting for work. Individuals arriving from high-risk non-EU countries must register with authorities and self-isolate for at least eight days, after which a COVID-19 test may be taken; those testing positive are required to self-isolate until they have recovered. Individuals arriving from countries designated as low risk may enter without restriction; these countries include Australia, China, Finland, Iceland, Ireland, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice, depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. 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.