Tonga: Authorities extend domestic COVID-19 measures until at least June 18 /update 17

Event

Tonga has extended its COVID-19 restrictions nationwide until at least 05:00 June 18. However, officials no longer require quarantine to travel to 'Eua.

Domestic Measures
Tonga remains under the orange setting, the second-highest level of its COVID-19 traffic light system. A 00:01-05:00 curfew remains in place for Tongatapu and the Vava'u and Ha'apai islands. Residents must stay at home during curfew hours; exceptions are possible to seek medical care or work in critical industries. Facemasks and social distancing remain necessary in public, including at hospitality venues and on public transport.

Businesses can operate Monday-Saturday; large retail companies and drinking establishments must seek government approval before resuming operations. Nightclubs remain closed. Officials allow essential workers to isolate for only three days after testing positive for COVID-19; workers must receive a negative PCR test result before exiting quarantine.

Public transport is operating; however, transport disruptions between Tongatapu and outlying islands remain likely. Travelers between Tongatapu and Ha'apai and the Niuas islands might have to self-quarantine for five days and undergo testing before departure, followed by self-quarantine for five days upon arrival. International and domestic cargo shipments are operating.

International Travel Restrictions
An entry ban for most foreign nationals remains in place. Tongan citizens, permanent residents, and pre-approved international travelers can enter the country. International commercial flights, cruise ships, and yachts remain banned; however, repatriation flights are operating. Inbound travelers must obtain a negative rapid antigen test result before departure, submit health declaration forms upon entry, and quarantine for five days. Officials plan to further ease quarantine to three days for permitted entrants from June 30.

Advice

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