Russia: Authorities to tighten COVID-19 countermeasures in Moscow from June 28 /update 50

Event

Starting June 28, authorities in Moscow will require residents to present a government-provided QR code displaying their COVID-19 status in order to access certain public spaces, including restaurants, cafes, and other catering establishments. Only residents who have been fully vaccinated, recovered from COVID-19 within the past six months, or received a negative result in a COVID-19 test in the previous 72 hours will be permitted entry. Paper certificates will not be accepted. QR codes can be obtained from the official website of the Mayor of Moscow, the Public Services Portal, or the Public Services' Stop Coronavirus app. Nonresident foreign nationals may present a paper certificate proving they have received a negative result in a COVID-19 test in the past 72 hours.

Authorities previously extended tightened COVID-19 countermeasures in Moscow until June 29 due to a recent rise in cases. Public events with more than 1,000 attendees are prohibited, and fan zones for the European soccer championship will be closed. Food courts and children's play areas in shopping centers will remain closed. Where possible, businesses that continue to operate should have 30 percent of their staff working remotely. Catering facilities will only be permitted to operate takeout services 23:00-06:00. In addition, nonessential businesses that do not normally operate on weekends will also remain closed.

Authorities in Russia have been using a largely localized approach, with each region responsible for its own measures, several COVID-19 restrictions apply nationwide. Facemasks are compulsory on public transport and in enclosed public spaces. Mass events and public gatherings remain suspended. Citizens over the age of 65 and those suffering from chronic diseases are strongly advised to avoid public places and temporarily suspend personal contact with any persons outside their immediate households. Residents are encouraged to work from home whenever possible. However, nonessential businesses, retailers, theaters and cinemas, leisure facilities, educational institutions, and cultural venues have resumed operations in many regions, subject to social distancing mandates. Public transportation is also operating in most cities, though with reduced services. Public sector offices are open.

Authorities in Moscow have installed more than 400 thermal cameras at metro stations; passengers presenting high temperatures are denied entry. Cinemas, theaters, museums, and other cultural and leisure venues are limited to 50 percent capacity.

International Entry Restrictions
Authorities resumed flights with Turkey June 22 following a COVID-19-related suspension. In addition, authorities plan to allow flights to resume with the US, Belgium, Bulgaria, Jordan, Ireland, Italy, Cyprus, and North Macedonia starting June 28.

Russia has resumed international flights with more than 30 countries, including Austria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Germany, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, South Korea, Finland, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Serbia, Switzerland, the UAE, and the UK. However, the availability of flights is still dependent on COVID-19 restrictions in destination countries. Additionally, flights with low demand could be canceled or merged with other scheduled services.

Foreign air passengers, including those that have been vaccinated, must present a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before their arrival in Russia. Foreign travelers must also fill out an arrival application form provided by their airline or upon arrival in Russia. Russian citizens must submit two negative COVID-19 test results or self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival. The first COVID-19 test result must be uploaded to the Public Services website within three days after arrival and the second within five days of the first test. Russian citizens must also complete a COVID-19 declaration form on the Public Services website. Foreigners are not allowed entry for tourism purposes.

All travelers from India must self-isolate upon arrival until they test negative for the virus, at which point they may exit quarantine. All travelers will be tested immediately upon arrival.

Any restrictions may be extended or amended with little advance notice. Failure to comply with these restrictions could result in a fine and/or imprisonment.

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.

Resources

Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing (Russian)
Official Website of the Mayor of Moscow
Public Services Portal
World Health Organization (WHO)