Kiribati: Officials enforcing COVID-19 controls in South Tarawa and Betio through at least 06:00 Feb. 4

Event

Authorities have extended a state of emergency declaration in Kiribati through at least Feb. 28 amid ongoing COVID-19 activity. Lockdown measures continue in South Tarawa and Betio through at least 06:00 Feb. 4. Officials require residents to remain at home unless working in essential industries or purchasing critical goods. Residents cannot travel outside of designated zones for essential purchases. All social gatherings are banned. Government offices are closed, but vital functions will continue. Essential retail, such as food markets, may operate from 06:00-14:00.

The government has eased most controls in Buota, but movement restrictions to and from Buota, South Tarawa, and Betio continue. Individuals must apply for a pass from the Office of the President (OB) to enter or depart lockdown areas. Authorities continue to suspend public transport services in affected areas. Transport from Tarawa and outer islands remains suspended, though officials permit returning residents to travel from outer islands. Cargo vessels and aircraft may still operate domestically.

International Travel Restrictions
International commercial flights are temporarily suspended. However, the government permits fully vaccinated travelers to enter the country via South Tarawa. All other ports of entry remain closed. Inbound passengers must hold a negative COVID-19 test result obtained 48 hours or less before departure and undergo a COVID-19 test on arrival. Passengers from COVID-19-free locations must quarantine for seven days, while travelers from high-risk places must quarantine for 14 days.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm business appointments, deliveries, work, and travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Ensure access to essential items and plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.