Bolivia: Authorities tighten COVID-19 travel restrictions as of April 1 /update 21

Event

Bolivian authorities have tightened the nation's COVID-19-related travel restrictions effective April 1. Under the stricter measures, all travelers over five years of age must present a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 72 hours prior to embarking on a flight to Bolivia, or up to 72 hours after arrival in Bolivia if arriving by land or lake border crossings. Once admitted to Bolivia, all persons must remain in quarantine for 10 days, with a second PCR test taken on the seventh day. This second test will be at the traveler's expense. All nonresident foreigners must also prove that they have a health insurance policy that will pay for COVID-19 treatment.

The new measures also close all points of entry between Bolivia and Brazil through at least April 7. During this period, Bolivian municipalities that share a border with Brazil may permit cross-border transit of cargo to continue at their discretion, but for no more than three hours per day. The decree also gives the Ministry of Health the power to temporarily close Bolivia's borders with other countries, although the Ministry has not elected to do so as of April 1.

A ban on passenger flights to and from Europe remains in effect until May 31. Officials are allowing specially authorized repatriation flights for Bolivian citizens to return from Europe as long as all such repatriating citizens complete a 14-day self-quarantine.

Domestic Restrictions
Mandatory protocols are in effect for the public and public sectors nationwide; these include industry-specific requirements related to the use of facemasks, physical distancing, temperature testing, and sanitization procedures in the construction, food and beverage, manufacturing, and mining sectors, as well as in public entities. All individuals must continue to observe physical distancing of 1.5 meters (5 feet) and wear a facemask in public places. Authorities have also urged the public to avoid mass events.

Municipal officials are empowered to enforce tighter restrictions on businesses, intercity and interdepartmental travel, general movement, recreational activity, and public gatherings, depending on the local risk level. These measures may include scheduling and capacity limits or restrictions on commercial operating hours or vehicular movements.

Restrictions in La Paz
A curfew remains in effect in La Paz between 00:01-05:00. Bars and nightclubs remain closed and mass events are suspended.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further tighten, 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. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Government COVID-19 Updates
Public and Private Sector Biosecurity Measures
Online Entry Form