Tonga: Authorities permitting inbound commercial flights; managed quarantine to end from Aug. 1 /update 18

Event

Tongan officials have permitted inbound commercial flights to resume as of July 19, with international flights operating from Australia, Fiji, and New Zealand. Additionally, the government will eliminate quarantine for inbound passengers from Aug. 1, though entry restrictions remain in place.

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. 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; 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, travel 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. Cruise ships and yachts remain banned. Inbound travelers must obtain a negative rapid antigen test result before departure, submit health declaration forms upon entry, and quarantine for five days. Officials require arrivals to undergo a three-day quarantine at designated facilities until Aug. 1.

Advice

Follow all official orders. Remain nonconfrontational if stopped by police. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays.