Slovakia: Authorities to introduce traffic light system for COVID-19 related international entry restrictions as of May 31. /update 32

Authorities to amend COVID-19 related international entry restrictions as of May 31. Domestic restrictions remain in effect.

Event

Authorities will introduce a traffic light system to indicate COVID-19-related international travel restrictions from May 31. Countries will be classified as Green, Red, or Black depending on local infection rates, the presence of COVID-19 variants, and the reliability of epidemiological data. Arrivals from all locations are obliged to self-isolate for 14 days on arrival. Travelers from Green countries can end their isolation period following a negative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) COVID-19 test at any point; travelers from Red countries can end self-isolation following a negative RT-PCR test taken no less than eight days after arrival; travelers from Black countries are not eligible to end their isolation period early. Additionally, travelers arriving from Green countries are exempt from the quarantine requirement if they can prove they have been vaccinated against COVID-19 or recovered from COVID-19 in the previous 180 days.

Non-essential travel is permitted from within the Schengen Area; travel from outside the Schengen Area is restricted to EU citizens and limited essential purposes only. 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. Exceptions to the entry restrictions are in place for transport workers and individuals in transit.

Domestic Restrictions
Authorities ended the COVID-19-related state of emergency May 14. The curfew is no longer in effect. Most businesses and services are permitted to resume operation subject to hygiene and social distancing requirements; negative COVID-19 tests are required to access some facilities. Regional restrictions are in place dependent upon local infection rates. In low infection areas catering establishments may open indoor areas while they are limited to serving in outdoor areas in regions with high infection rates. Similarly, restrictions on public gatherings or tougher in areas with higher infection rates. Working from home continues to be recommended where possible, and facemasks are mandatory in enclosed public spaces nationwide.

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.