Papua New Guinea: Authorities maintaining reduced COVID-19 measures nationwide as of March 10 /update 47

Event

Authorities in Papua New Guinea are maintaining reduced COVID-19 restrictions nationwide as of March 10.

Domestic Measures
The government is maintaining social distancing rules and hygiene protocols, though enforcement of these measures is likely lax. Public gatherings can occur with up to 100 people; the limit does not apply to markets and shopping centers or places of worship, schools, and political rallies. Officials allow restaurants and gambling establishments to operate under strict health requirements. People 12 years old or above must wear face coverings in public places, except childcare centers and banks.

Authorities have lifted capacity limits on public transport and permit interprovincial travel. However, symptomatic people cannot board flights; health staff conduct temperature checks and ban travel for people whose temperatures are 37.5C (99.5F) or higher. Travelers must complete and submit a National Department of Health form to the Provincial Health Authority upon arrival. Provincial officials can require on-arrival testing for passengers and order quarantine for travelers who refuse tests.

International Travel Restrictions
The government permits travelers to enter the country without prior permission. Foreign nationals 18 years and above must be fully vaccinated; citizens are exempt from the requirement. All inbound travelers must complete an e-Health Declaration Form to board flights. Entrants must hold a negative COVID-19 PCR test result obtained within 72 hours before departure, and people above five years old must undergo a COVID-19 test upon arrival. People that refuse on-arrival testing must quarantine for a period determined by health officials at their own cost. Individuals infected within the last three months can provide a medical certificate indicating the person is no longer infectious for entry.

Authorities do not require quarantine for most arrivals. Inbound passengers who test positive on arrival must quarantine for seven days at an approved quarantine facility of their choice at their own expense or at home if they have suitable premises. Officials allow couples, families, and caregivers and their patients on the same flight to quarantine together. Hotel management is authorized to hold passengers' passports during the quarantine period. Violations of quarantine orders are punishable by fines of up to PGK 50,000 and/or up to seven years in prison.

Entry remains limited to Port Moresby's Jacksons International Airport (POM) and Motueka Port and maritime ports in Lae, Kimbe, Madang, and Rabaul. Land borders with Indonesia and traditional maritime border crossings remain closed. International flights from Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and the Philippines are available on specific carriers, though Air Niugini (PX) conducts most international flights. PX requires outbound passengers to be fully vaccinated. Outbound international passengers must take a COVID-19 test before departure while at the airport. Passengers that test positive must remain in-country.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements and medical appointments. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Prepare to discuss and provide evidence for recent travel history. Maintain contact with your diplomatic mission.

Resources

National Control Centre For COVID-19
Ministry of Health
Air Niugini