Liberia: Authorities impose COVID-19-related restrictions on travelers from several African countries as of Dec. 1 due to COVID-19 variant /update 31

Event

Officials in Liberia have imposed special restrictions on travelers from Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe as of Dec. 1 due to the new Omicron COVID-19 variant. Authorities will transfer all arrivals from these affected countries to the Star Base Precautionary Observation Center for a seven-day quarantine at their own expense. Diplomats and their families are exempt from quarantine but must undergo COVID-19 testing at the center.

International Restrictions
Other international travel restrictions in Liberia remain unchanged. All incoming travelers must present a negative PCR test result issued no more than 96 hours before arrival, download the Liberia Travel application, and complete a Health Screening Arrival Form. All non-exempt travelers must undergo testing on arrival; the cost of the test is USD 50 or 75, depending on the country of departure. Officials encourage travelers to make payment through the Liberia Travel application before arrival, though cash payment on arrival remains available. Authorities will require individuals who test positive to enter quarantine. Officials advise travelers who tested negative at the port of entry to self-isolate for up to seven days and monitor symptoms via the mobile app for up to 14 days. Diplomats and their families are exempt from testing on arrival if they can present a negative PCR test result issued within 96 hours before arrival in Liberia.

All non-exempt departing passengers must present certification of a negative PCR test result from Liberia’s National Public Health Reference Laboratory within 72 hours of their flight.

Domestic Measures
Local measures remain in place nationwide. Under the Ministry of Health guidelines, all persons must abide by public health directives, including wearing facemasks in all public places. Individuals must also follow social distancing of approximately 1 meter (3 feet). Indoor gatherings of more than 20 people and outdoor gatherings of more than 50-percent capacity are not allowed. Restaurants and bars may open until 23:00 under strict health protocols. Restrictions on capacity are in place for public and private institutions, supermarkets, and public transport.

Advice

Abide by national health and safety measures. Confirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Government of Liberia
Ministry of Health