Togo: Authorities impose 72-hour quarantine for travelers from South Africa due to Omicron COVID-19 variant as of Dec. 3 /update 23

Event

As of Dec. 3, authorities have imposed a 72-hour quarantine for all travelers arriving from South Africa, at their own cost, to prevent the spread of the Omicron COVID-19 variant. The exact conditions of the quarantine remain unclear. Other travel and domestic restrictions remain unchanged. Separately, The EU has recognized the COVID-19 vaccination certificate issued by Togo on Nov. 24 as equivalent to those issued by the EU Member States. As a result, Togo has recognized the EU Digital COVID Certificate.

International Travel Restrictions
Land borders remain closed to regular passenger traffic without special authorization. The transport of cargo and humanitarian traffic is likely unaffected. All travelers arriving in the country must complete a Traveller Declaration Form (TDF) at least 24 hours before departure. Upon boarding for Togo, passengers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than seven days before departure that must be uploaded within the TDF. Authorities require passengers to take another PCR test on arrival at Lome-Tokoin International Airport (Gnassingbe Eyadema International Airport, LFW); the test must be paid before departure and presented upon boarding. Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 may be placed in quarantine for up to 14 days. Passengers in transit who remain in LFW's international zone are exempt from a test on arrival.

Those departing from Lome must fill out the TDF and provide proof of a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours prior to departure.

Domestic Measures
Bars are open, and places of worship have been allowed to resume activities under strict health protocols; nightclubs remain closed. Individuals need to present proof of vaccination or a negative test to enter public buildings and hotels. Social gatherings remain restricted and may only be allowed under government approval; participants will be required to present either a negative test or proof of vaccination. Other nationwide measures, including the mandatory use of facemasks in select public areas and on public transportation, remain in effect.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity. Health and sanitary checkpoints are also possible on major routes.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures due to the continued spread of the disease. 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. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Reconfirm all health and travel requirements well before your intended departure date from Togo.

Resources

World Health Organisation (WHO)
Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene (French)
Togo Travel Portal
Traveller Declaration Form