Malawi: Officials maintain COVID-19 entry restrictions as of Feb. 8 /update 23

Event

As of Feb. 8, authorities in Malawi are maintaining heightened restrictions for international travelers entering the country and domestic COVID-19 measures.

Domestic Measures

• A nationwide 00:01- 06:00 curfew is in place.

• All bars, restaurants, and supermarkets are allowed to open during their licensed operating hours; however, they must close by 22:00.

• All gatherings, including religious gatherings, are permitted to have no more than 100 people at indoor venues and 250 people at outdoor venues.

• Public transport has resumed service with normal capacity, though social distancing measures are in place.

• All businesses and public service buildings must be sanitized at least once a week and fitted with handwashing facilities at entrances and exits.

• The wearing of protective facemasks is compulsory in all public spaces.

International Travel Restrictions

• Borders have reopened to nonresident travelers, though commercial flights remain limited.

• All travelers must present a negative PCR test result taken 72 hours before their arrival in the country. Individuals without a proper negative test result will need to take an antigen test upon arrival at their own cost before proceeding to passport control. Those testing positive will need to take a PCR test and will be taken to the District Health System for care and monitoring according to standard national protocols.

• All arrivals must present a valid electronic full COVID-19 vaccination certificate. Those without an electronic certificate must be vaccinated upon arrival before being allowed to enter or re-enter Malawi. Those who refuse to be vaccinated will be required to undergo institutional quarantine for 10 days at their cost.

• Travelers must use the Trusted Travel framework for the verification of their COVID-19 test certificates. Click here for more.

• All arrivals may be tested upon arrival at their own expense. Those testing positive must quarantine at a government facility.

• All arrivals must self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms for 14 days.

• Travelers leaving Malawi must present proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours before departure.

• Land borders are highly likely to be subject to the same measures with strict health protocols in place and potential screening measures upon arrival.

All restrictions are subject to amendment at short notice in response to government reviews. Security forces have been deployed to ensure compliance. Authorities will issue fines to persons not complying with the COVID-19-related measures.

Advice

Reconfirm all planned travel arrangements. Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Consider delaying travel 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.