Tonga: Authorities expand COVID-19 measures to 'Eua and the Niua islands through 20:00 May 9 /update 13

Event

Authorities in Tonga have expanded restrictions to 'Eua, Niuatoputapu, and Niuafo'u islands through 20:00 May 9 due to COVID-19 concerns. A 00:01-05:00 curfew is in place. Residents can only travel during curfew hours to seek medical care or work in critical industries. Funeral gatherings are limited to 50 people indoors and 100 people outside.

Domestic Measures
The government is maintaining a nightly 20:00-05:00 curfew in most other areas of the country. Most gatherings remain 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.

Authorities continue to enforce tighter measures in the Ha'apai Islands. The government is implementing a 20:00-08:00 curfew on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday nights. The 20:00-05:00 nationwide curfew applies on other evenings. Residents must remain at home, except for essential reasons. Essential retail, financial services, and restaurants can operate Saturdays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays; restaurants can only offer takeaway services.

Domestic public transport remains suspended nationwide unless given official permission. Transport disruptions between Tongatapu and outlying islands are likely. Travelers between Tongatapu and Ha'apai, 'Eua, and the Niuas islands might have to self-quarantine for five days and undergo testing before departure and self-quarantine for 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.