Russia: Authorities in Moscow to tighten COVID-19 restrictions from June 13 /update 46

Event

Authorities in Moscow plan to strengthen COVID-19-related restrictions in the capital from June 13 as a result of a recent rise in cases. Food courts and children’s play areas in shopping centers will close from June 13-20. Where possible, businesses that continue to operate should have 30 percent of their staff working remotely. Catering facilities will only be permitted to operate takeout services from 23:00-06:00. In addition, nonessential businesses that do not normally operate on weekends will close from June 15-19.

Authorities in Russia have been using a largely localized approach, with each region responsible for its own measures, several COVID-19 restrictions apply nationwide. Facemasks are compulsory on public transport and in enclosed public spaces. Mass events and public gatherings remain suspended. Citizens over the age of 65 and those suffering from chronic diseases are strongly advised to avoid public places and temporarily suspend personal contact with any persons from outside their immediate households. Residents are encouraged to work from home whenever possible. However, nonessential businesses, retailers, theaters and cinemas, leisure facilities, educational institutions, and cultural venues have resumed operations in many regions, subject to social distancing mandates. Public transportation is also operating in most cities, though with reduced services. Public sector offices are open.

Authorities in Moscow have installed more than 400 thermal cameras at metro stations; passengers presenting high temperatures are denied entry. Cinemas, theaters, museums, and other cultural and leisure venues are limited to 50 percent capacity.

International Travel
Russia has now resumed international flights with around 38 countries including Austria, Bulgaria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Germany, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, South Korea, Finland, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Serbia, Switzerland, the UAE, and the UK, as of June 1. However, the availability of flights is still dependent on COVID-19 restrictions in destination countries. Additionally, flights with low demand could be canceled or merged with other scheduled services. Foreign air passengers must present a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before their departure for Russia; Russian citizens must produce a negative COVID-19 test result within three days upon arrival or self-isolate for 14 days. Foreigners are not allowed entry for tourism purposes.

Entry from most international destinations remains restricted. Only certain categories of travelers, including diplomats and persons holding special visas, such as those denoting a Highly Qualified Specialist, may still enter Russia. Qualifying travelers must self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival in Russia; aircrews are exempt from this restriction.

Authorities have extended the suspension of most commercial flights with Turkey and Tanzania until June 21. Authorities permit two commercial flights per week between Moscow and Istanbul, repatriation flights, charter flights, and flights carrying workers for the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant project in Turkey's Mersin Province. Only repatriation flights are permitted with Tanzania. All travelers from India must self-isolate upon arrival until they test negative for the virus, at which point they may exit quarantine. All travelers will be tested immediately upon arrival.

Any restrictions may be extended or amended with little advance notice. Failure to comply with these restrictions could result in a fine and/or imprisonment.

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.