18 Aug 2021 | 06:07 AM UTC
Bhutan: Authorities continue nationwide COVID-19 controls as of Aug. 18 /update 32
Bhutan continues to enact nationwide COVID-19 restrictions as of Aug. 18. International travel rules, including quarantine, in effect.
Event
Officials continue to enforce COVID-19 restrictions nationwide as of Aug. 18. Several recreational venues, such as movie theaters, dance clubs, and nightclubs, remain closed. The use of facemasks is compulsory in public places. Authorities also require residents to use the Druk Trace application for contact tracing when entering public places, business premises, and public and private hire transport vehicles. Essential gatherings of up to 25 people can occur, provided organizers obtain advance approval from authorities. Officials continue to conduct random COVID-19 testing for travelers, students, teachers, transporters, and business personnel every two weeks. Inter-district travelers must register via the Check Post Management System.
Authorities have lifted lockdown measures in Gomtu and Phuentsholing as of Aug. 18. However, officials may still implement stricter localized controls in areas considered as high-risk due to increased COVID-19 activity; such protocols are most likely in locations along the border with India. The measures typically include banning nonessential movement and gatherings, as well as closing nonessential businesses. Officials usually require arrivals from high-risk areas to obtain prior approval and quarantine for 14 days.
Travel Restrictions
Bhutanese authorities continue to ban the entry of foreign nationals. International flights to and from Bhutan remain severely limited due to travel restrictions on Bhutanese citizens and carriers, as well as border closures. Bhutanese air carriers, such as Druk Air (KB) and Bhutan Airlines (B3), are operating some flights mainly to repatriate Bhutanese citizens. Schedules for available flights are subject to change at short notice.
Officials require international arrivals to undergo a 21-day quarantine at designated facilities. Authorities are advising citizens against nonessential travel; Bhutanese nationals who are traveling overseas must register with the Department of Immigration before the trips. Cargo transit is operational, though delays are possible due to screening and quarantine rules.
Advice
Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm business appointments, deliveries, work, and travel arrangements. Do not check out of accommodations without confirming onward travel. 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. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Ensure access to essential items. Carry proper identification documents, heed all security advisories.
