Timor-Leste: Authorities extend stay-home measures in Dili through Sept. 9 /update 40

Event

Authorities have extended stay-home rules in Dili through Sept. 9 due to COVID-19 activity. Officials have also lifted ongoing stay-home measures in Ermera and Railaco administrative posts as of Sept. 1. Under the stay-home orders, residents may only leave their homes to purchase essential goods, obtain medical assistance, receive vaccinations, or work in essential sectors. All individuals in Dili, including fully vaccinated people, must comply with the measures. Public transport will be suspended. Only essential businesses like food establishments, financial institutions, and pharmacies may operate; all other commercial activities must close. Restaurants can only offer takeaway and delivery services.

An entry and exit ban is in place in Dili and Ermera through Sept. 13; Manufahi from Sept. 2-15; and in Bacau, Covalima, and parts of the Oecusse-Ambeno Special Administrative Region, including Naimeco in Pante Macassar and Bobometo in Oesilo through Sept. 8. Exemptions are possible for safety, public health, or humanitarian reasons. Individuals who have received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine and accompanying children under the age of six are also exempt from the rules.

The government has also extended a nationwide state of emergency is in effect through 23:59 Sept. 29. Authorities require people to wear facemasks, frequently sanitize their hands, and maintain a 1-meter (3-feet) distance from others when in public. Gatherings are banned. Authorities may extend or reintroduce the measures in some localities at short notice, depending on changes in COVID-19 activity.

Travel Restrictions
Authorities continue to suspend entry for citizens and foreigners. Diplomatic personnel, members of international organizations and bilateral cooperation agencies, petroleum sector workers, and medical emergencies are exempt. Authorities require permitted travelers to present a negative COVID-19 test result and quarantine for 14 days in government facilities or their private residences, subject to prior approval from the Ministry of Health. Fully vaccinated individuals may quarantine for five days. Travelers must receive a negative COVID-19 test result before leaving quarantine.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. 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. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers. Plan for possible ground shipping and travel delays; seek alternative routes and shipping methods for time-sensitive cargo.

Resources

Timor-Leste Government Website
World Health Organization (WHO)