Morocco: Authorities suspend flights with several African countries, including South Africa, as of Nov. 26 to combat new COVID-19 strain /update 82

Event

Morocco has suspended all flights with South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe as of Nov. 26. The measure is in response to the emergence of the new COVID-19 variant and will remain in place until further notice. The measure also applies to travelers who are transiting through those countries.

International Travel Restrictions
Other COVID-19-related international travel restrictions remain in force. A suspension of flights to and from France will enter into effect Nov. 28. Flights to and from the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands remain suspended, as do all direct flights with Russia. The suspensions will remain in place until further notice. These restrictions do not apply to transit flights that operate via a third country.

Morocco classifies foreign countries as "List A" or "List B" based on local disease activity. Travelers arriving from List A countries require a COVID-19 vaccination certificate and/or a negative result from a PCR test taken within 72 hours before arrival to be allowed to enter Morocco. Children arriving from List A countries are exempt from providing a COVID-19 certificate.

Travelers from List B countries must present a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours before entry to Morocco. Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated individuals traveling from List B countries must also undergo a mandatory 10-day quarantine period at a government-designated facility at their own expense. Travelers from List B countries who present a certificate indicating full vaccination against COVID-19 are exempt from quarantine requirements. Moroccan nationals traveling from List B countries are allowed to undergo a five-day quarantine period at home. For a full explanation of List A and B countries, click here.

Sea travel to Spain remains suspended.

Domestic Measures
Several measures aimed at curbing the spread of COVID-19 remain in place nationwide. Domestic flights and public transport, including train and bus services, are operating. Public transportation is, however, restricted to operating at no more than 75 percent capacity. Restaurants, gyms, public baths, and cafes can operate at up to 50 percent capacity.

Authorities have extended the existing health state of emergency (SoE) through Nov. 30. The SoE grants the government authority to impose proactive measures, including curfews and travel restrictions.

A COVID-19-related vaccine pass system has been implemented. Individuals must have a vaccination pass to access public buildings and businesses, including hotels and restaurants. The pass is also required for travel between cities, regions, and provinces. Violations are punishable by up to three months' incarceration or a fine of up to USD 143.

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 business appointments and 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. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.

Resources

World Health Organization
Moroccan Ministry of Health (French)