Estonia: Authorities maintaining plan to gradually ease COVID-19-related restrictions as of May 7 /update 22

Estonia continues to gradually ease COVID-19-related restrictions as of May 7; business and travel disruptions continue.

Event

Authorities are maintaining the plan to gradually ease restrictions imposed to combat the spread of COVID-19 as of May 7. Since May 3, shops, cultural centers, and outdoor areas of catering establishments have been permitted to resume subject to strict hygiene and social distancing requirements. Gatherings are generally limited to two people, except for outdoor dining and outdoor sports where gatherings of up to 10 people are permitted. Facemasks are mandatory in indoor public spaces and on public transport.

Estonia permits travel from European Union and Schengen Area countries, the UK, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, Vatican City, Australia, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, and Thailand. Travel is prohibited from all other countries except for work, study, and limited other essential purposes. All permitted arrivals must fill out an online health declaration prior to arrival. Health officials currently designate all countries as "high-risk," apart from Finland, Ireland, Iceland, Malta, Norway, Portugal, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Rwanda, and Singapore. Travelers from high-risk countries must self-isolate for 10 days on arrival. This period can be shortened if the traveler presents proof of a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) COVID-19 test taken within the previous 72 hours or submits to a test on arrival; individuals may end their self-isolation by taking a second test no fewer than six days after the first and obtaining a negative result.

Since May 3, cross-border commuters from Latvia may enter the country without needing to self-isolate provided they have a negative COVID-19 test taken within the previous seven days.

Since Feb. 1, testing and quarantine requirements do not apply to travelers who can present a certificate to prove they have contracted and recovered from COVID-19 in the previous six months. The same applies to individuals who can present a certificate confirming they have been vaccinated against COVID-19 in the previous six months.

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. 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.