Ireland: Authorities designate additional countries as high risk for international travel as of Feb. 26 due to COVID-19 activity /update 28

Ireland designates additional countries as high risk Feb. 26; domestic COVID-19 restrictions remain in effect.

Event

Authorities in Ireland tightened international entry restrictions introduced to combat the spread of COVID-19 Feb. 26 by adding further countries to the list of high risk or "Category 2" countries. Individuals arriving from these countries must observe a complete 14-day self-isolation period. As of Feb. 26, Category 2 countries include Angola, Argentina, Austria, Bolivia, Botswana, Brazil, Burundi, Cape Verde, Chile, Colombia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Lesotho, Malawi, Eswatini, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, South Africa, Suriname, Rwanda, Seychelles, Tanzania, UAE, Uruguay, Venezuela, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Health officials are currently passing legislation to require arrivals from these countries to carry out their isolation in specifically designated hotels, though it is not confirmed when this measure will come into effect.

All incoming travelers are required to fill out a passenger locator form prior to arrival and possess proof of a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken within the 72 hours prior to travel in order to be permitted entry. Additionally, all travelers must self-isolate for 14 days on arrival, though this can be ended early for arrivals from non-Category 2 countries if the individual takes a COVID-19 test confirming a negative result no less than five days after arrival. Essential transport workers and individuals in transit are exempt from these requirements.

Domestic Restrictions
Previously authorities in Ireland issued orders extending the duration of most of the country's domestic COVID-19 restrictions. The following measures will remain in place across the country until at least April 5:

Residents are not allowed visitors except for essential family reasons.
Individuals must remain at home, except for work, exercise within 5 km (3.1 miles) of home, or essential purposes, such as seeking healthcare services and attending to family emergencies. Working from home is required whenever possible.
Restaurants and pubs must remain closed. Nonessential retail outlets, personal services such as hairdressers, beauticians, and barbers, along with gyms and swimming pools, are still closed, as are all cultural institutions.
Family gatherings are suspended. Funerals and weddings are limited to 10 and six people, respectively.
Public transport capacity is limited to 25 percent; residents are advised to use public transport only for essential purposes.
Nightclubs, casinos, and similar venues remain closed.
Facemasks are required in indoor public places and crowded outdoor public places.

Authorities could reintroduce, extend, or otherwise amend restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. 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. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.