Mauritius: Officials lift COVID-19 ban on entry for travelers from the UK as of March 1 /update 15

Mauritius lifts ban on entry for travelers from the UK as of March 1; arrivals from South Africa, Japan, and Brazil remain prohibited.

Event

As of March 1, authorities in Mauritius have lifted the entry ban for travelers from the UK; however, a similar directive prohibiting entry for travelers from South Africa, Japan, and Brazil has been extended indefinitely. The measures originally entered into effect on Dec. 21 due to concerns regarding the spread of a newly discovered strain of COVID-19 and apply to all persons who have either visited or transited the countries in question during the 15 days prior to arrival in Mauritius. All other pandemic-related travel restrictions and internal measures remain mostly unchanged.

International Travel
A phased reopening of the country's borders is underway. Under Phase 2 of the country's three-phase reopening plan, Mauritian nationals, legal residents, individuals working in Mauritius, and long-term tourists from approved countries are allowed to enter the country. Travelers to Mauritius must present proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a test taken no more than seven days before arrival in the country. Arriving travelers must quarantine for at least 14 days at a government-approved hotel. Individuals arriving in the country must also take at least three COVID-19 tests - one on arrival, a second on day seven of their stay in Mauritius, and the third test on day 14. Travelers who test positive will be transferred to a government-run medical facility. All travel bookings are centralized at the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) website.

Domestic Measures
Authorities have largely eased restrictions in recent months. Persons with possible exposure to COVID-19 are subject to a 14-day quarantine at a government-approved facility. Individuals must wear facemasks on public transportation; nonessential services and businesses remain open, subject to adherence to disease-related health regulations.

Context

Authorities are facilitating the reopening of Mauritius to boost the economy, which relies heavily on tourism. Officials may reimpose domestic restrictions and curbs on international travel if the number of COVID-19 cases increases during the reopening phases.

Advice

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.