05 Mar 2021 | 10:11 PM UTC
Serbia: Authorities to tighten domestic COVID-19-related restrictions from March 6 /update 24
Serbia to tighten domestic COVID-19 restrictions from March 6; international entry restrictions remain in place.
Event
Authorities in Serbia have issued orders tightening the nation's COVID-19-related domestic restrictions due to an increase in infection rates. Effective March 6, all catering establishments and nonessential businesses must remain closed from 1200 on Saturdays through 1200 the following Monday; grocery stores may operate until 2100 on weekends.
Otherwise, under existing directives, nonessential businesses may operate between 0500-2000; catering establishments and entertainment venues may remain open until 2100 on weekdays. Facemasks remain mandatory in all enclosed public spaces, on public transport, and all outdoor spaces where social distancing of at least 1.5 meters (5 feet) cannot be observed. Public gatherings of more than five people are prohibited; exceptions apply for schools, workplaces, shops, and similar establishments, where capacity will continue to be limited to one person per 4 square meters (43 square feet). Individuals must work from home where possible. Public transport services are limited to 50-percent capacity.
Additionally, certain entry restrictions remain in force for international travelers. Upon arrival, all incoming travelers must present a negative result from a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 48 hours before travel. Serbian nationals and residents are permitted to enter the country without a test but must undergo a 10-day self-isolation period instead. Travelers from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Montenegro, as well as foreign nationals transiting through Serbia, freight transporters, and aircraft crews, are exempt from this measure.
Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice, depending on disease activity over the coming weeks. Local authorities are empowered to introduce stricter measures within their jurisdictions if infection rates warrant.
Advice
Heed all official advisories and remain nonconfrontational if stopped by authorities. Reconfirm all travel arrangements if traveling to, from, or via Serbia. Shipping disruptions may occur; consider delaying or rerouting shipments. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19.
