Norway: Authorities slightly ease COVID-19-related domestic restrictions Jan. 18 /update 28

Norway eases COVID-19-related domestic restrictions Jan. 18; significant business and travel disruptions continue.

Event

Authorities are maintaining restrictions on domestic activity and international entry as of Jan. 18 as part of their response to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Most domestic restrictions remain in place, though officials have relaxed some restrictions on educational facilities and sporting activities. In addition, people can now host up to five guests from separate households within their homes. Private gatherings outside are limited to 10 people indoors and 20 people outdoors. Individuals are advised to limit their social contacts and avoid all nonessential travel. Protective facemasks are recommended where social distancing of 1 meter (3 feet) cannot be observed.

Tougher measures are in place in municipalities with higher infection rates, such as Oslo, including the mandatory use of facemasks whenever social distancing cannot be observed and additional restrictions on nonessential businesses.

All international arrivals must take a COVID-19 test either directly upon arrival or up to 24 hours after entering the country. A second test must be taken no sooner than seven days after arrival. All arrivals into Norway must also register with authorities during the 72 hours prior to entry. All EU and Schengen Area countries remain designated as high risk (red level), with the exception of Greenland and parts of Finland, which are designated as moderate-risk (yellow level) locations. Those arriving from red locations must present proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a test taken no more than 72 hours before entry; persons without such tests may be refused entry. Norwegian citizens and residents, as well as persons who come from Finland and Sweden regularly for work, are exempt from this requirement, though some exemptions do not apply to travelers arriving from the UK.

Travelers from high-risk areas must also self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival. Travelers who do not have permanent residence in the country or a suitable place of residence upon arrival can stay in a hotel of their choice, providing they can document their self-isolation in accordance with official regulations; otherwise, they must stay in government-designated quarantine hotels. Travelers from most non-EU and Schengen Area countries are currently prohibited from entering Norway. Individuals with close family in Norway or who have been granted permits to work or study in the country are exempt from the travel ban but must meet the same entry requirements as those traveling from a high-risk location. Authorities continue to advise against nonessential travel abroad.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.