Benin: COVID-19 restrictions tightened nationwide as of Sept. 13 /update 18

Authorities in Benin tighten COVID-19-related domestic measures as of Sept. 13. International travel measures in place.

Event

As of Sept. 13, authorities have tightened select domestic measures to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Domestic measures
Authorities have ordered the closure of nightclubs and banned gatherings of more than 50 people and festive assemblies, including on beaches. All cultural, sporting and religious events are suspended. Taxis may only carry three passengers at a time. Further, unvaccinated public servants and private employees can no longer access meetings or forums if they are unable to present proof of vaccination.

International restrictions
Ground and maritime travel to and from Benin remains heavily restricted. Overland travel is limited to approved cases of extreme necessity and in coordination with neighboring countries. The land border with Togo is closed. It remains unclear whether exceptions are made for travel across the Togo border. Maritime and ground freight transport can continue.

Air borders have reopened, and international flights are in operation. Air travelers arriving in Benin are required to take up to three COVID-19 tests at their own expense. At least two of these tests will be taken upon arrival at Cotonou Cadjehoun Airport (COO). Travelers must also complete a health form available at the Ministry of Health's Health Surveillance Centre website before departure for Benin. Travelers may also be required to surrender their passports on arrival. Passports will be returned after travelers who test positive complete 15 days of isolation and a follow-up negative COVID-19 test. Travelers who test negative can collect their passports from the Palais des Congres 72 hours after their arrival.

Persons visiting Benin for less than 15 days must submit special requests for their passports to the Minister of Health at the point of entry. Travelers who will be in Benin for less than three days will not be required to take a follow-up test. Travelers who test positive for COVID-19 and display symptoms will be treated at a government facility. Asymptomatic carriers of the disease can self-isolate at a private location of the traveler's choice.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further 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.