Bahamas: Authorities tighten COVID-19-related curfews on various islands as of July 28 in response to increased viral spread /update 38

Event

As of July 28, the government of the Bahamas has tightened select COVID-19-related curfews and other restrictions on an island-by-island basis due to an increase in disease activity. The increased restrictions, have targeted the islands of New Providence, Grand Bahama, and North and South Eleuthera, in particular, which will now see curfews run 22:00-05:00.

Enhanced National and Localized Measures
COVID-19-related restrictions vary between islands, with the exception of general restrictions that apply nationwide, such as wearing facemasks in public spaces and maintaining a social distance of at least 2 meters (6 feet) between individuals not in the same household. On all islands, all social gatherings are also limited to 5 people, and all attendees must be fully vaccinated.

As part of the new set of tightened localized restrictions, however, aforementioned nightly curfews have been adjusted to 22:00-05:00 for New Providence, Grand Bahama, and North and South Eleuthera (including Harbour Island). Additionally. officials have reduced the maximum capacity to 33 percent for indoor dining in restaurants on New Providence and Grand Bahama, in particular; customers must be fully vaccinated. Religious services may continue to occur on these islands, but are similarly capped at 33 percent of the venue's capacity. In addition, spa services are suspended, while wedding receptions are limited to 30 persons. Funeral/burial and cremation services on the four islands in question must be held outside and/or graveside, with a limit of 30 attendees.

Domestic Travel
Individuals must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result for inter-island travel originating from New Providence, Grand Bahama, and North and South Eleuthera bound for other islands. However, those who are fully vaccinated are exempt from this requirement.

International Travel
International travel is permitted with a valid Travel Health Visa. Travelers unable to provide valid proof of having been fully vaccinated at least two weeks before entry must meet the following entry requirements:

• Those over the age of 11 must present a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than five days before travel and apply for a Travel Health Visa.

• Those visiting the country for more than four nights must take a rapid COVID-19 antigen test on day five.

• Proof of insurance covering COVID-19 treatment is required.

All measures are subject to amendment at short notice.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Resources

WHO Coronavirus Knowledge Base
Government COVID-19 Protocols
Bahamas Travel Health Visa Application
Bahamas Tourism Information