Barbados: Officials extend tightened COVID-19-related restrictions through Feb. 28 /update 22

Event

Officials in Barbados have extended the tightened domestic restrictions in place to curb the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) through at least Feb. 28. Under the orders, the 1900-0600 curfew will continue to be enforced nightly. Only essential services, fuel-related businesses, and hotels are permitted to operate during the curfew. While nonessential services in the public and private sectors must still stay closed, effective Feb. 18, post offices, courier companies delivering critical supplies, and money transfer companies will be allowed to reopen. Other restrictions that are in place are:

• Supermarkets, pharmacies, and gas stations, excluding convenience stores, will remain open. Supermarkets may operate 0800-1600 Monday-Friday, while pharmacies and gas stations may also operate on weekends.

• Gyms, restaurants, bars, markets, and shops must stay closed.

• Construction projects must stop; only work on Highway 1 will continue.

• All social gatherings are banned, as are commercial pleasure cruises and paid public parties or fetes.

• Outdoor exercise on beaches and in public parks is only allowed 0600-0900.

• Public transport may only operate at 60-percent seating capacity.

• The wearing of a facemask will be mandatory in all public spaces.

Individuals must continue to adhere to physical distancing protocols by maintaining at least 1 meter (3.3 feet) between each other. Authorities also require establishments to enforce strict physical distancing and sanitization protocols; additional industry-specific protocols are likely in place.

International Travel Protocols
International travel is continuing. Standard travel protocols are being applied to all travelers, regardless of the country departure point. All travelers are required to wear facemasks at the airport. Entry requirements are:

• Authorities require all persons intending to enter Barbados to present a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test result taken no more than 72 hours before arrival.

• For entry into Barbados, all travelers must submit an online Immigration/Customs form 24 hours before travel, available online or on the BIMSafe mobile application.

• All arrivals are required to take a rapid antigen test on arrival. Travelers who test negative are required to complete a mandatory five-day quarantine at a government-authorized quarantine center before another PCR test is administered to confirm if the traveler is safe to exit the quarantine. Travelers will be required to wear a tracking bracelet during the quarantine period.

• Any traveler who tests positive will enter an isolation facility.

Authorities could amend any domestic restrictions or entry requirements 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.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Government Travel Protocols
Pre-Arrival Travel Form