Tonga: Authorities modifying COVID-19 measures in the Ha'apai, Tongatapu, and the Vava'u islands through 05:00 April 23 /update 12

Event

Officials are modifying COVID-19 measures in the Ha'apai, Tongatapu, and Vava'u islands through 05:00 April 23. Authorities are enforcing a shortened 20:00-05:00 nightly curfew in Tongatapu and Vava'u; residents must remain home during the curfew unless obtaining essential medical supplies or working in an essential service. Officials continue to prohibit outdoor sporting activities. Stores selling alcohol must remain closed. Some establishments, including shops, gas stations, financial services, and restaurants, may operate. Officials are prohibiting gatherings. Public transport services may not operate unless given permission by officials.

In the Ha'apai Islands, officials are enforcing a 20:00-08:00 nightly curfew April 9-April 11, 12-13, 14-15, 16-17, 17-18, 19-20, and 21-22. A 20:00-05:00 nightly curfew will be in effect April 11-12, 13-14, 15-16, 18-19, 20-21, and 22-23. Domestic public transport is also suspended unless given official permission. Shops, gas stations, financial institutions, restaurants, and essential stores may remain open. Permitted businesses may open Saturdays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. Public facilities must remain closed, and gatherings are prohibited.

Domestic Measures
The government is maintaining a nightly 20:00-05:00 curfew in most areas of the country except the Ha'apai Islands, where a 20:00-08:00 curfew is in effect on some days. Most gatherings are banned. However, funerals and weddings can occur with 10 people indoors or 20 people outdoors with an authorized officer present, including in areas under lockdown orders. Facemasks and social distancing remain required in public.

Businesses can operate Monday-Saturday outside of the Ha'apiai Islands. 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 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.