Norway: Authorities tighten COVID-19 quarantine requirements for international arrivals from March 29 /update 37

Norway to tighten quarantine requirements for international arrivals from March 29 due to increasing COVID-19 activity.

Event

Authorities in Norway are set to tighten quarantine requirements for international arrivals to the country from March 29 due to increasing COVID-19 infection rates. From this date, authorities will require all arrivals, including local nationals and permanent residents, returning from "travel on an unnecessary trip abroad" to quarantine at designated hotels for 10 days. The quarantine period may be shortened if a negative COVID-19 test result is received no earlier than seven days after entry into the country. There are a limited number of exceptions where arrivals will not be required to quarantine. In addition, business travelers who are able to document that their employer is able to provide a suitable alternative accommodation may be exempt from the hotel quarantine.

Otherwise, existing international travel restrictions remain in effect. Generally, only Norwegian citizens and legal residents are allowed to enter the country; however, exemptions are in place for close family members of Norwegian residents, transport workers, individuals in transit, and foreigners who work within critical social functions.

All permitted travelers from high-risk areas must register with authorities within 72 hours before arrival and present a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken within 24 hours before arrival. Norwegian citizens may instead opt to be tested on arrival. Effective March 23, only Iceland, Greenland the Faroe Islands, and the Finnish hospital districts of Kainuu and Lansi-Pohja, are not considered high-risk areas. Cross-border commuters from Sweden and Finland are permitted to enter Norway without the need to isolate provided they take a COVID-19 test every seven days.

Domestic restrictions
Effective March 25, nationwide bans on serving alcohol, as well as engaging in indoor sports and leisure activities for adults, are in place. Individuals must work from home wherever possible. Authorities are also recommending a maximum of two guests per visit at private homes.

Many nonessential businesses and services remain open subject to strict social distancing and hygiene measures. Indoor gatherings are limited to 20 people, while outdoor gatherings are capped at 50 people. Individuals are advised to limit their social contacts and avoid all nonessential travel. Protective facemasks are recommended rather than mandatory. Municipalities with higher rates of infection may impose stricter measures within their jurisdictions.

Tighter restrictions are in place in Viken County, including the capital Oslo, due to rising infection rates. All nonessential shops and services must close and catering establishments may only offer carryout services. Gatherings and events are prohibited, with the exception of weddings and funerals, and many education services are employing distance learning. Additionally, protective facemasks are mandatory where social distancing of 2 meters (6 feet) cannot be observed. These measures also apply to the Gran Municipality in Innlandet County and will be in effect until at least April 11.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further 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. 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.