Norway: Authorities to tighten COVID-19 domestic and travel restrictions from March 25 /update 36

Norway to tighten certain COVID-19 restrictions starting March 25.

Event

Authorities in Norway plan to tighten certain COVID-19-related domestic and travel restrictions. Starting March 25, all persons returning to Norway from nonessential trips abroad must quarantine in government-designated hotel for 10 days; there will be no option to end the quarantine early by taking a COVID-19 test and producing a negative result.

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. As of 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
As concerns domestic restrictions, effective March 25, nationwide bans on serving alcohol, as well as engating in indoor sports and leisure activities for adults, will go into force. 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.