Cote d'Ivoire: Authorities updating COVID-19-related international measures as of Dec. 15 /update 31

Event

Authorities are updating COVID-19-related international travel restrictions as of Dec. 15. Current domestic restrictions remain in place. As of Dec. 15, the timing of testing requirements for arrivals has been shortened from 72 hours to 48 hours prior to departure. Likewise, all incoming air travelers from countries with confirmed COVID-19 omicron variant cases will be subject to a mandatory COVID-19 PCR test upon arrival. In addition, these travelers will be monitored by health authorities for five days after their arrival.

Domestic Measures
Authorities enforce hygiene and social distancing measures, including the use of facemasks in public spaces and on public transport. Most businesses, including hotels, bars, and other entertainment facilities, are open. Large gatherings have resumed with the approval of local authorities. Unvaccinated individuals and those without proof of a negative test may be barred from entering select public and private places depending on the epidemiological situation.

International Travel Restrictions
Land and sea borders are reportedly closed to regular commercial passenger travel, but cargo and freight transport are still operating.

Permitted arrivals will need to fulfill a travel form (Declaration de Deplacement par Voie Aerienne, DDVA) and pay XOF 2,000. All arriving passengers must present evidence of a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken no more than 48 hours before departure. Both the test result and the travel form must be presented upon boarding.

Travelers leaving Cote d'Ivoire will have to complete the DDVA, pay XOF 25,000 for a PCR test, and present a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before travel. Both the test result and the travel form must be presented upon boarding.

Both arriving and departing passengers may be screened at the airport.

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. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene (French)
Official Government Website
Travel Form (Déclaration de Déplacement par Voie Aérienne)