Kiribati: Officials extend COVID-19 measures nationwide through at least 05:00 April 29 /update 3

Event

Authorities in Kiribati have extended Alert Level 3 measures through at least 05:00 April 29 amid reduced COVID-19 activity. However, officials have relaxed some measures and aligned measures in all island groups in the country. An eased 22:00-05:00 curfew will apply nationwide. The government has allowed travel between Tarawa and outer islands without COVID-19 cases; however, passengers must undergo testing and self-quarantine before departure and quarantine for three days at the destination and receive a negative test result before entering the community.

Domestic Measures
Officials require residents to remain at home during curfew hours unless working in essential industries or purchasing critical goods. Gatherings of up to 20 people can occur outdoors. Churches can resume services without capacity limits, but worshipers must wear facemasks. Facemasks are also mandatory at most indoor locations and on public transport.

Some private-sector businesses can operate under social distancing measures outside of curfew hours but must close by 21:00 daily. Entertainment and nightlife venues remain closed across the country. Public transport has also resumed, but operators can only permit seated customers, reducing capacity.

International Travel Restrictions
International commercial flights remain suspended. However, the government permits fully vaccinated Kiribati nationals and essential workers 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.