Slovakia: Authorities extend COVID-19 state of emergency and related restrictions until April 28 /update 27

Slovakia extends COVID-19 state of emergency and related measures until April 28. Significant business and transport disruptions continue.

Event

Authorities in Slovakia have extended the country's COVID-19-related state of emergency (SoE) and related restrictions until at least April 28; the SoE was previously slated to expire on March 20. A daily 20-hour 0500-0100 curfew remains in effect. Individuals may only leave their homes between the hours of 0500-2000 to perform essential tasks. The only permissible reasons to be outside the home between the hours of 2000-0100 is to travel to work, to a hospital or pharmacy, or to walk a pet. All persons needing to leave their homes to engage in essential work must have proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or antigen test. Additionally, KN95 or FPP2 grade facemasks are mandatory in shops and on public transport. Nonessential businesses and facilities remain closed; those that are permitted to open must implement strict hygiene and social distancing measures.

International Travel Restrictions
As of March 19, all non-essential trips abroad are banned; violations of this directive are punishable by fines of up to EUR 1,000 (USD 1,190). All arriving travelers must self-isolate for 14 days upon entry. However, such persons will be able to take a PCR test no earlier than the eighth day of self-isolation; if the test result is negative, the individual may end the quarantine period. The mandate does not apply to citizens of neighboring countries commuting for work or study purposes; such individuals must present a negative PCR test every seven days. Moreover, exceptions are in place for travelers who have either received the second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine more than 14 days prior to arrival or have recovered from the virus. Upon entry, such individuals must produce the results of an antigen test taken no more than 48 hours or a PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival. They must also take an additional test immediately upon entry and self-isolate until the results are known. Aircrews and freight transporters are exempt from all measures. All travelers arriving by air must register in advance using the Electronic Passenger Search Form; they must also fill out the Travel Registration Form immediately upon arrival.

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.