Tonga: Lockdown ongoing in Tongatapu and the Vava'u islands through at least 05:00 March 26 due to spike in COVID-19 cases /update 9

Event

Officials in Tonga have raised the national alert level to red, the highest level, and ordered a lockdown on Tongatapu and the Vava'u Islands through at least 05:00 March 26 amid an increase in COVID-19 activity. Most residents in both locations must remain at home unless traveling for emergencies. A tightened 20:00-08:00 curfew is in effect. Authorities only permit essential workers and residents seeking medical care or supplies, visiting farms, or fishing for urgent supplies to travel outside of curfew hours. Almost all retail businesses are closed. Gatherings for funerals can still occur under national guidelines. Public transport remains suspended on Tongatapu and the Vava'u Islands.

Domestic Measures
The government is maintaining a nightly 20:00-05:00 curfew in all other areas of the country. Most gatherings are banned. However, funerals and weddings can occur with 10 people indoors or 20 people outdoors with an authorized officer present. Facemasks and social distancing remain required in public.

Businesses can operate Monday-Saturday. Large retail companies must obtain prior approval for reopening plans, and workplaces can only gradually increase on-site staff. Eateries can offer takeaway services. Most entertainment and nightlife businesses remain closed.

It is unclear if authorities have suspended travel to outlying islands, but interisland transport disruptions are likely. Previously, the government resumed transport between Tongatapu and Ha'apai, 'Eua, and the Niuas islands. Travelers must self-quarantine for five days and undergo testing before departure and self-quarantine another five days upon arrival. International and domestic cargo shipments are ongoing.

International Travel Restrictions
An entry ban for most foreign nationals remains in place. Tongan citizens, permanent residents, and pre-approved international travelers can travel to the country. International commercial flights, cruise ships, and yachts remain banned; however, some repatriation flights are operating. Inbound travelers must quarantine for 15 days. Arrivals must submit health declaration forms upon entry.

Advice

Follow all official orders. Obtain permission before traveling if operating in areas under lockdown. Remain nonconfrontational if stopped by police. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays.