Ecuador: Authorities tighten COVID-19-related domestic measures through at least Jan. 23 /update 37

Ecuador tightens COVID-19-related domestic measures through at least Jan. 23. International travel restrictions remain largely unchanged.

Event

Authorities in Ecuador have tightened several COVID-19-related domestic measures through at least Jan. 23. According to the new directives, markets, grocery stores, malls, banks, and government offices are limited to operating at up to 75 percent of capacity, while restaurants, gyms, cinemas, theaters, and places of worship may operate at 50 percent capacity. Public and private events are banned, and conference centers, event venues, bars, and nightclubs must remain closed. Beaches can be open 06:00-18:00 and host up to 75 percent of their capacity.

Additionally, most places of work must limit the number of people who work in person to 50 percent. Other previously imposed restrictions, including those regarding international travel, remain largely unchanged.

Domestic Measures
All individuals ages 12 and older must show proof of being fully vaccinated to enter any nonessential business. Exemptions are in place for persons who have documented medical reasons for not being vaccinated. Individuals must wear a facemask in public settings.

International Travel Restrictions
The government of Ecuador maintains a ban on travel for individuals arriving from or who have transited through Botswana, Egypt, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, or Zimbabwe due to concerns over the Omicron strain of COVID-19.

The following pandemic-related requirements also remain in effect for persons arriving in Ecuador by air:

Travelers ages two and older must present a negative result from a COVID-19 RT-PCR test for entry; the test must be taken no more than 72 hours before departure for Ecuador.
Travelers ages 16 and older must also show proof of having been inoculated with a full course of an approved COVID-19 vaccine.
Passengers presenting COVID-19 symptoms are subject to an antigen test upon arrival. If the test is positive or if authorities suspect the traveler may be infected with COVID-19, the traveler must complete a 14-day quarantine period. Nonresidents must complete the quarantine at a government-regulated hotel or accommodation.
Passengers must present a completed Traveler Health Declaration form upon arrival. To view the form, click here.
Travelers arriving from India must complete a 10-day quarantine period upon arrival.

All restrictions are subject to amendment at short notice, depending on local disease activity.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements and appointments. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance.