Covid-19 relief measures: immigration perspective - Country-by-country comparison Information gathered with the collaboration of the IBA ...
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Covid-19 relief measures: immigration perspective Country-by-country comparison Information gathered with the collaboration of the IBA Immigration and Nationality Law Committee members
Relief measures by country
Health screenings
Outbound travel/border Other relief
Country Inbound travel/border restrictions Relief measures for temporary visa holders and/or quarantines on
restrictions measures
arrival
Australia From 28 March 2020: Prime Minister Travel from Australia to On 12 April 2020: The Red Cross has announced it will Mandatory quarantine Biosecurity
Scott Morrison announced that all arrivals overseas be receiving funds from the Australian Government for for arrivals Australia has
Contributor: to Australia will go into mandaotry From 25 March 2020 Australian the next six months to deliver emergency relief and Prime Minister Scott announced major
Anne quarantine for 14 days at desiganted citizens and Australian casework support to temporary visa holders who have no Morrison announced that biosecurity measures
O’Donoghue facilities. Travellers will be transported permanent residents are way to support themselves and who have urgent needs. all arrivals to Australia and travel restrictions in
directly to designated facilities after restricted from travelling after midnight 28 March efforts to limit the
appropriate immigration, customs and overseas. Who is eligible? 2020 will go into spread of Covid-19.
enhanced health checks. Visa holders may be eligible for Red Cross Safety Net mandatory quarantine in This has caused
Exemptions: support if they: hotels or other facilities for enormous disruption to
From 20 March 2020: At 2100 AEDT, • People ordinarily resident in a • are in Australia on a temporary visa; 14 days. temporary visa holders
Australia closed its borders to all non- country other than Australia; • cannot access Centrelink, Medicare or similar services; seeking to enter or
citizens and non-residents. This is to seek • Airline and maritime crew and • are in urgent financial hardship; or Enhanced health returning to Australia.
to mitigate the impact of Covid-19 in associated safety workers; • have no income, savings or other financial support screenings for airline
Australia. • New Zealand citizens holding (including from family overseas). crew and passengers The Australian
subclass 444 visa; 25 March 2020: NSW government is
Exemptions: • People engaged in day-to-day On 5 March 2020: the government have made a Health Department has constantly evaluating
• Australian citizens; conduct of outbound and number of changes to temporary visa holder ordered nurses and and changing policy in
• Australian permanent reisdents; inbound frieght; arrangements during the Covid-19 crisis. There are 2.17 biosecurity staff at Sydney light of the evolving
• New Zealand citizens usually resident in • People whose travel is million people presently in Australia on a temporary visa. International Airport to Covid-19 situation.
Australia; associated with essetial work check the temperatures of
• Immediate family members of an at offshore facilities; and Temporary Skill Shortage visa holder (SC 482) all incoming passengers. Cruise ship
Australian citizen or permanent • People travelling on official Visa holders who been stood down: passengers
resident (including spouses, dependent government business, • Temporary Skill Shortage visa holders who have been Reporting ill travellers The Australian
children and legal guardians); or including the Australian stood down, but not laid off, will maintain their visa All aircraft entering government has
• Additional exemptons as determined by Defence Force. validiy and businesses will have the opportunity to Australian territory must restricted all cruise
the Commissioner. extend their visa as per normal arrangements. report sick passengers and ships entering Australia
While the Australian government • Businesses will also be able to reduce the hours of the crew on the pre-arrival until 15 June 2020,
Unless exempted above, all other does not appear to have such visa holder without the person being in breach of their report. including direct arrivals
temporary visa holders are currently powers in its migration visa conditions or the business being in breach of their and round trip cruises.
banned from entering Australia, or re- legislation, these provisions have employer obligations. Self-isolate for 14 days
entering Australia if they are a temporary been enacted through the • These visa holders will also be able to access up to From midnight 15 March All travellers arriving in
visa holder who is located offshore. Biosecurity (Human Biosecurity AUD10,000 (approx. US$6,100) of their 2020, all people entering Australia will undertake
Emergency) (Human Coronavirus superannuation this financial year. Australian must self-isolate mandatory 14-day
All persons entering Australia will need to with Pandemic Potential) for 14 days. This period of quarantine at
self-isolate for 14 days from date of (Overseas Travel Ban Emergency Visa holders who been laid off: self-isolation applies designated facilities in
arrival. They must self-isolate at home or Requirements) Determination • Those who are laid off (that is, they are unemployed) regardless of country of their port of arrival.
in a hotel. 2020 which came into effect on should find another employer within 60 days or make origin/transit or Australian
25 March 2020. arrangements to depart Australia, where possible. immigration status. Failure
It is unclear precisely how long this travel • Those visa holders who have been laid off due to to do so risks AUD1,000s
ban will be in place, but we note that it Covid-19 should leave the country in line with existing in fines.
could be months before it is lifted. visa conditions if they are unable to secure a new
Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg on sponsor. However, should a four-year visa holder be
behalf of the Australian Government, has re-employed after the Covid-19 pandemic, their time
suggested that this travel restriction could already spent in Australia will count towards their
remain in place for up to six months, permanent residency skilled work experience
subject to medical advice. requirement.Country Relief measures for temporary visa holders (continued) Other relief measures
Australia Covid visa – Subclass 408 new stream announced – Australian Government Endorsed Events No further stay condition
(continued) This stream will allow holders of temporary visas who are engaged in or have the relevant skills to undertake critical work relating to supply of essential goods (includes 8503, 8534 and 8535)
and services, provided the applicant falls within the class of persons specified by the instrument. It must be part of responses to workforce shortages during This means you cannot apply for
Contributor: the Covid-19 pandemic in relation to areas including, but not limited to, agriculture, aged care and public health. The fee has been waived for applicants who most visas onshore. If your visa has
Anne fall within the class of persons specified by the instrument. less than two months’ validity
O’Donoghue remaining visa holders can request to
The purpose of this is to provide a pathway for former and current holders of temporary visas to remain lawfully in Australia and who would otherwise be waive this condition. The Department
required to depart Australia who, but for the Covid-19 pandemic, are unable to leave Australia. announced extra resources have
been diverted to the No Further Stay
They may be eligible for a Temporary Activity (subclass 408 Australian Government Endorsed Event Stream) visa during the Covid-19 pandemic if: waiver section to deal with increased
• their visa is about to expire; volume of requests to allow onshore
• their visa has already expired; visa holders to extend their stay.
• they cannot leave Australia; or
• they are working in a critical sector, such as health, aged care or agriculture. New Zealand 444 Special
Category Visa (SCV)
Working Holiday Makers (SC 417, 462) New Zealanders and Australians have
To support the critical sectors of health, aged and disability care, agriculture, food processing, and childcare, the government is providing flexible reciprocal arrangements whereby we
arrangements with regard to ongoing employment of Working Holiday Makers (WHMs). can each stay and work in each
other’s country.
WHMs working in these critical sectors will be exempt from the six-month work limitation with one employer and will also be eligible for a further visa to
continue working in these sectors if their current visa is due to expire in the next six months. If visa holder is a protected SCV New
Zealand citizen and meet other
If a WHM is working in the critical sectors of health, aged and disability care, agriculture, food processing or childcare but is not eligible fo a further WHM visa eligibility requirements, they will be
and is unable return to their home country, they can apply Temporary Activity (subclass 408) Australian Government Endorsed Event (AGEE) stream visa. eligible for all welfare payments,
including Job Seeker and Job Keeper
Student visa holders payments.
The government taking a flexible approach in relation to student visa conditions where Covid-19 and associated travel restrictions have prevented conditions
being met, such as attendance at class or use of online learning. If visa holder is not a protected SCV
New Zealand citizen and holds a TY
Government has temporarily relaxed the enforcement of the 40-hour work limitation for the following critical sectors: 444 visa, they will still be eligible for
• International students who are existing workers in major supermarkets to help get stock onto shelves due to high demand (implemented 7 March); the Job Keeper payments through
• International students who are existing workers in aged care sector are able to work more than 40 hours a fortnight (implemented 18 March). their employer.
Student visa holders enrolled in nursing can undertake work to help and support the health effort against Covid-19 as directed by health officials.
Students who have been in Australia longer than 12 months who find themselves in financial hardship will be able to access their Australian superannuation
(up to AUD10,000).
Seasonal worker or Pacific Labour Scheme
Subclass 403 visa holder in the Pacific Labour Scheme
Can apply for another subclass 403 visa in the Pacific Labour Scheme where the applicant and employer are endorsed by the Department of Foreign Affairs
and Trade to participate in the scheme. This visa will allow them to stay lawfully in Australia and continue working, if they wish to do so.
Subclass 403 visa holder in the Seasonal Worker Program
This visa cannot be extended. However, the Australian Government has introduced new measures for those working in critical sectors in response of Covid-19.
They may be eligible for a Temporary Activity (subclass 408 Australian Government Endorsed Event Stream) visa during the Covid-19 pandemic.Relief measures by country
Outbound Relief measures for Health screenings
Other relief
Country Inbound travel/border restrictions travel/border temporary visa and/or quarantines on
measures
restrictions holders arrival
Austria Flights operate irregularly and border controls are in place at these internal land Travel restrictions have Third-country nationals Anyone required to As Austrian Immigration
borders: Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic, Slovakia. been in place for some with a valid Visa D or a present a medical Authority offices are
Contributor: The following entry restrictions apply until at least May 1 2020: areas since mid-March, residence permit issued certificate, proving to be also closed to the public
Valentina but foreigners could by an Austrian tested negatively for it is not possible to
Arnez Air travel leave after a two-week authority entering Covid-19, must take care collect newly-issued
From 19 March until at least 30 April, flights deriving from the following countries quarantine. Austria by air, are that their certificate is no residence permits in
are banned from landing in Austria: China, France, Iran, Italy, the Netherlands, required to put older than four days when person. However the
Russia, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Ukraine, the United Kingdom. This does not There are no outbound themselves into entering Austria. authorities have
apply to cargo flights, ambulance and emergency flights, or repatriation flights. travel border restrictions, immediate 14-day introduced delivering
but some neighbouring self—quarantine. The Those required to place approved residence
On entering Austria by air, the following persons need to place themselves into countries such as the same requirement themselves into an permits via regular
immediate 14-days self-quarantine: Czech Republic prohibit applies if they re-enter immediate 14-day self- postal services.
• Austrian citizens; entry via the land by land provided, they quarantine can be freed
• EU/EEA/Swiss citizens; borders. have already taken from this requirement if Relief measures have
• third-country national family members of Austrian citizens or EU/EEA/Swiss residence in Austria. they are tested negatively been taken for seasonal
citizens who live in the same household; Until at least 28 April for Covid-19. This can be workers who are
• third-country nationals with – Visa D, a residence permit, or another residence 2020, Austria is If the residence permit provided when entering already in-country –
documentation issued by an Austrian authority. executing border controls expires while in Austria or at any later their stay can be
on all internal land Austria, an extension stage. extended even if their
Austrian citizens and EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who present a medical certificate, borders to the following application can be visa has expired.
confirming that they have tested negative for Covid-19, are exempt from quarantine. countries: Switzerland, submitted to the People who are exempt
Liechtenstein, Germany, immigration authority from putting themselves Furthermore, the
The following need to present a medical certificate showing they are Covid-19 Italy, the Czech Republic, by email or post. into a self-controlled- government has
negative when entering Austria by air: Slovakia. quarantine or from the introduced a number of
• third-country nationals entering Austria from inside of the Schengen Area; If the visa or the visa- requirement to present a measures to support
• third-country nationals entering from anywhere, who are members of diplomatic Flight operations at free stay in Austria medical certificate, can be Austrian businesses and
corps, official humanitarian emergency forces, care-givers, transit-passengers, Vienna International expires, a visa asked to take part in a to prevent large-scale
seasonal workers in the agriculture/forestry sector and persons who are Airport are extremely (extension) can be medical control regarding lay-offs through short-
necessary for the distribution of goods. limited. Most flights still applied for under any Covid-19 infection, on time work models.
operating are return exceptional the request of the Health Different funding
Other third-country nationals entering from outside the Schengen Area (without a flights for Austrian circumstances in Authority. Within this opportunities are also in
valid Austrian visa or residence permit), cannot enter Austria by air. Exemptions: citizens. Austria at a regional medical control the place as well as tax
• members of the crew of passenger or cargo flights; police department. authority can ask deferrals.
• emergency or ambulance flights; questions about previous
• repatriation flights or transportation flights; travel to other countries as
• flight personnel; well as any contact with
• members of the Austrian armed forces returning from duty; or Covid-19 patients. The
• persons who are entering Austria due to compelling reasons in the interest of the Authority can take the
Austrian Republic, or due to extraordinary circumstances in relation to immediate person’s body
family. temperature.Relief measures by country
Outbound Relief measures for Health screenings
Other relief
Country Inbound travel/border restrictions (continued) travel/border temporary visa and/or quarantines on
measures
restrictions holders arrival
Austria Travel by land (rail or road)
(continued)
Rail traffic (passenger transport excluding cargo trains and trains on transit through
Contributor: Austria) from Italy, Switzerland, Liechtenstein are banned from arriving in Austria.
Valentina Rail traffic from Frankfurt and Munich to Austria is currently permitted.
Arnez
On entering Austria by land, the following persons need to place themselves into
immediate 14-day self-quarantine:
• Austrian citizens;
• Persons who are usually resident in Austria.
The following persons must present a medical certificate showing negative Covid-19
test results when entering Austria by land:
• EU citizens;
• third-country nationals.
Exemptions:
• Repatriation transfers;
• Distributions of goods;
• Commuters;
• Transit through Austria, if their exit from Austria is secured;
• Extraordinary circumstances in relation to immediate family reasons;
• Emergency medical treatment in Austria.Relief measures by country
Health screenings
Outbound travel/border Other relief
Country Inbound travel/border restrictions Relief measures for temporary visa holders and/or quarantines on
restrictions measures
arrival
Belgium All non-essential travels from third The generally applicable principle Employees who cannot leave Belgium because of force The generally applicable The regional ministries
countries (outside the Schengen Area/EU) is that any non-essential travel majeure (eg, quarantine, flight cancellations, closing of principle is that any have taken a number of
Contributor: to Belgium have been temporarily abroad is prohibited. borders etc) and whose residence authorisation is about Belgian national with or urgent measures to
Massimo suspended until 15 May 2020. to expire, can apply for a temporary extension of stay for without primary residence ensure continuity of
Maesen As essential reasons for up to 90 days in principle. in Belgium, long-term service and to deal with
This temporary travel restriction does not travelling abroad, the following residents in Belgium and a number of urgent
apply to: trips are currently being This applies to both visa and visa waiver nationals. persons with legal problems resulting from
• all EU citizens and citizens of the considered: residence in Belgium can the strict Covid-19
Schengen Associated States, and their • relocation abroad in the Applications can be filed by email. return to Belgium, subject measures currently in
family members; context of professional to two conditions that the place in Belgium.
• third-country nationals who are long- activities, including The following information/documentation must be person is:
term residents under the Long-term commuting; submitted: • placed in home For example:
Residence Directive and persons • relocations to continue • copy of passport; isolation for 14 days; • application via
deriving their right to reside from other medical care; • copy of ‘declaration of arrival’; and email;
EU Directives or national law or who • travel to provide assistance or • letter explaining why it is impossible to leave the • prohibited from • temporary extension
hold national long-term visas. care for an elderly, minor, Schengen Area on the planned date; working outside of their of residence and
disabled or vulnerable • documents confirming the impossibility; home for 14 days, even work
Only a very limited number of travellers person; • travel cost insurance, valid for the duration of the if they are authorisation/work
with an essential function or need can • travel to take care of animals; extension; • employed in an permit for
apply for visas/are allowed to travel to • relocation in the context of • Belgian residence address and email address. essential sector. employees who
Belgium. These include: co-parenting; Teleworking is cannot return to
• healthcare professionals, health • relocations to persons of The federal immigration office will process the application permitted. their home country
researchers, and elderly care Belgian nationality with or and will forward the decision to the applicant by email. (maximum three
professionals; without main residence in These two conditions apply months) – expedited
• seasonal and frontier workers Belgium, long-term residents to the returnee and apply work
• transport personnel engaged in goods in Belgium and persons with to all possible transport authorisation/work
haulage and other transport staff to the legal residence in Belgium to modes (air, land and sea) permit application;
extent necessary; be picked up abroad and used during their return. • incomplete
• diplomats, staff of international brought back to Belgium; applications will not
organisations, military personnel and • relocation to bring family In the case of a return via be declared
humanitarian aid workers in the members abroad to perform a domestic or foreign inadmissible after 15
exercise of their functions; work for essential reasons; airport, these two days;
• passengers in transit; • movement of Belgian conditions also apply to • periods of temporary
• passengers travelling for imperative nationals to their main the person who will collect unemployment shall
family reasons; residence abroad; the returner(s), but not to be taken into
• persons in need of international • relocation to a partner who the rest of the family living account in the
protection or for other humanitarian does not live under the same under the same roof. The calculation of the
reasons. roof; person picking up is salary threshold.
• relocation in the context of preferably a family
the execution of deeds (if member, but if the
necessary and not possible members of the family are
digitally); employed in an essential
• movements relating to sector, it is not
funerals/burials/cremations recommended that they
• relocations in the context of collect the returning
civil/religious marriages. person.Relief measures by country
Health screenings and/or
Country Outbound travel/border restrictions (continued)
quarantines on arrival (cont.)
Belgium Relocations to a second residence abroad are hereby excluded. These two conditions do not apply to
(continued) cross-border workers, drivers of
Carrying a proof of identity is not mandatory, but highly recommended. professional transport companies and
Contributor: persons who have made an essential
Massimo Germany has no controls at its borders with Belgium. So no document other than the identity card is required. However, Belgium limits the crossing of its movement abroad, with the
Maesen borders to essential movements. More information is provided at: https://www.bmi.bund.de/SharedDocs/kurzmeldungen/EN/2020/03/corona-ein-und- exception of persons who have
ausreise-en.html. collected returning persons from a
foreign airport.
France has instituted a strict ‘shelter’ measure on its territory until 15 April 2020. Border controls are present at the borders and certificates must be
presented. Belgium also limits the crossing of its borders to essential movement. More information at: https://www.gouvernement.fr/info-coronavirus.
To date, Luxembourg has not introduced controls at its borders with Belgium. However, Belgium limits the crossing of its borders to essential movements.
More information at: https://meco.gouvernement.lu/en/dossiers/2020/coronoavirus-entreprises.html.
The Belgian/Dutch border is strictly monitored. Only the border crossing for essential movements is permitted. Today there is a vignette system that allows
professions from critical sectors to take precedence at the border crossing. See:
https://crisiscentrum.be/sites/default/files/20200321_vignette_bel_vital_sector_e.pdf.Relief measures by country
Inbound travel/border Outbound travel/border Health screenings and/or
Country Relief measures for temporary visa holders Other relief measures
restrictions restrictions quarantines on arrival
Brazil Closure of Brazilian land, air and Brazilian flight operators Migratory documents were extended The National Health Agency on Cuban doctors already stationed in
maritime borders to foreigners have drastically reduced the automatically since 16 March 2020 for the period Sanitary Inspections Brazil were called to treat patients
Contributor: of any nationality from 30 March number of domestic flights of the state of emergency due to Covid-19. This (ANVISA) has implemented a during the Covid-19 public
Carolina until 30 April, 2020. over the national territory, comes as a relief for immigrants whose protocol on Brazilian points emergency crisis by a specific call
Carnaúba and foreign-based Residence Permits are due to expire soon or have of entry according to the from the Ministry of Health.
Citizens from Argentina, Bolivia, companies have also expired since 16 March 2020. guidelines of the World Health
Colombia, French Guiana reduced the number of Organization (WHO).
(France), Guyana, Paraguay, flights departing from Brazil. Furthermore, foreigners under a tourist/business
Peru and Suriname who arrive visa who arrived in Brazil before 16 March 2020 There are no mandatory
through a land border will be In addition, quarantine (when the Federal Police automatically extended quarantine measures
barred from entry until 2 May measures have been the expiration date of migratory documents) and applicable to individuals
2020. effected in many states and were unable to extend in-country their stay in arriving through any point of
cities nationwide affecting Brazil are allowed to stay in the country as long entry in Brazil (airport, port or
Citizens from Venezuela arriving individuals living in Brazilian as the public emergency lasts. land border), however the
through a land border will be territory. As a result, the ANVISA has reinforced its
denied entry until 1 May 2020. movement and The only peculiar situation is of recommendations and
displacements in-between foreigners/immigrants whose migratory warnings that if someone is
Citizens from Uruguay arriving cities has fallen sharply. documents had expired before 16 March 2020, found with flu-like symptoms
through a land border will be yet remain in the country. They are allowed to when arriving from abroad,
denied entry until 20 May 2020. States such as São Paulo remain in the country regardless of sanctions, they should avoid physical
have enacted quarantine however once the public emergency situation is contact with other persons,
Exemptions: measures, closing all non- lifted, they might need to settle their migratory especially with elderly and
• Brazilian citizens or essential activities until 10 situation by paying fines for overstay. chronically ill patients, and
foreigners who have acquired May 2020. Rio de Janeiro should stay at home for at
Brazilian citizenship; followed with similar least 14 days. They should
• immigrants who already measures, but has been immediately seek hospital care
possess a valid Temporary or assessing the situation if they experience shortness of
Indefinite Period Residence every 15 days, therefore the breath.
Permit and have already current quarantine
been registered with the measures are in place until
Federal Police; 30 April 2020.
• foreign employees working
for an international
organisation, duly accredited
within Brazil;
• foreign employees accredited
before the Brazilian
government;
• a foreigner who is the
spouse, partner, child,
parent or curator to a
Brazilian citizen, or whose
entry into Brazil has been
authorised for a specific
reason by the Brazilian
government with a view to
public interest, or a bearer of
a National Migratory Register
Card (Registro Nacional
Migratório);Relief measures by country
Country Inbound travel/border restrictions (continued)
Brazil • cargo transportation;
(continued) • a passenger in international transit, as long as they do not leave the transit area of the airport and the destination country accepts their entry; and
• landing of aircraft for technical reasons, as long as there is no need for any passengers whose nationality is under entry restrictions to enter Brazilian borders.
Contributor:
Carolina Several Brazilian consulates abroad have suspended in-person activities. This means that requesting business visas and Temporary Residence visas have been halted for an indefinite period.
Carnaúba However, as a general guidance, a consulate's operation should be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Since 20 March 2020, the Ministry of Justice, responsible for approving Residence Permits, has been analysing applications but not publishing their Approval Notice in the National Gazette.
Therefore, immigrants haven’t been able to collect their visas from consulates and enter Brazil to begin their assignments.
If the activities performed by the company which is employing the immigrant in Brazil are deemed of public interest, it may qualify for an exception to the rule mentioned above, nevertheless,
the activities performed by the immigrant should also be vested in public interest.
The Federal Police, a governmental entity responsible for performing compulsory registration of foreigners arriving to Brazil, has suspended its activities since 16 March 2020 for an indefinite
period.Relief measures by country
Inbound travel/border Outbound travel/border Health screenings and/or
Country Relief measures for temporary visa holders Other relief measures
restrictions restrictions quarantines on arrival
Canada From 26 March 2020: The From 28 March 2020: All IRCC is providing automatic 90-day All asymptomatic persons Canada’s Prime Minister Justin
Government of Canada has air operators must conduct extensions for all further steps in returning to Canada are Trudeau convened an Incident
Contributors: mandated an immediate 14-day a health check of travellers processing of applications for both subject to a mandatory 14-day Response Group on Covid-19, which
Catherine Sas, quarantine for all Canadians before they board a flight permanent and temporary residence. isolation period. Travellers are has been meeting since the end of
Jacqueline Bart returning to Canada as of 2359 within Canada or departing Previous requests for information will required to travel directly to January, and, on 5 March, he
and Yusra on 25 March 2020. The from Canada, based on automatically be given a further 90-day response their accommodation in created a Cabinet Committee on the
government has advised that guidance from the Public period. All IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Canada without delay, and federal response to Covid-19.
Siddiquee
this mandated quarantine will be Health Agency of Canada. Citizenship Canada) appointments will be remain there for 14 Chaired by the Deputy Prime
enforced under the Quarantine Passengers that present cancelled until 13 April 2020. consecutive days. During their Minister and vice-chaired by the
Act. Covid-19 symptoms must travel from the port of entry to President of the Treasury Board, the
be refused by air operators. International students in Canada who are their destination, they are not committee meets regularly to ensure
On 21 March 2020: Canada now receiving online instruction in response to permitted to stop for any whole-of-government leadership,
also restricted the entry of all 14 March 2020: The Public COVID 19, will still be eligible for a Post- reason. coordination, and preparedness to
foreign nationals seeking to Health Agency of Canada Graduation Work Permit. limit the health, economic and social
enter Canada from the United has advised travellers to If individuals are experiencing impacts of the virus.
States, including US citizens if avoid all non-essential Many Visa Application Centres (VACs) have any symptoms, they must not
they are seeking entry for an travel outside of Canada. either closed or are operating on a significantly use public transport to travel From 26 March 2020: All in-
optional or discretionary reduced capacity. Expect delays in all overseas to their accommodation. person Service Canada Centres have
purposes such as tourism, The Government of Canada processing of applications. closed.
recreation or entertainment. is continually assessing Once in isolation, individuals
travel risks for Canadians. On 7 February 2020: The IRCC introduced are not permitted to leave From 24 March 2020: Parks
From 19 March 2020: All An official global travel Covid-19 special measures to facilitate the entry their homes, unless it is to Canada temporarily suspended all
Canadians returning home from advisory is in effect: to of foreign nationals or permanent residence to seek medical attention. They motor vehicle access to all national
travel outside of Canada urged avoid all non-essential return to Canada or to remain in Canada. are not permitted to receive parks, national historic sites and
to self-isolate for 14 days. travel outside of Canada any visitors. If isolating in a national marine conservation areas.
until further notice. The special measures address four specific shared space, they must keep These measures are effective as of
From 18 March 2020: The categories of individuals: a distance of at least two 0001 on 25 March 2020.
Government of Canada, in In addition, a pandemic • Permanent resident visa holders or metres from others at all
conjunction with the United Covid-19 travel health permanent residents; times. A ‘State of Emergency’ has been
States, closed the Canada-US notice with travel health • Canadian citizenship applicants; declared in all Provinces and
border to all non-essential advice for Canadians has • Temporary or permanent residents abroad; There are limited exemptions Territories, 17–27 March 2020.
travel. also been issued. It may be and from this requirement for
increasingly difficult to • Temporary residents in Canada who are persons providing essential Emergency measures have resulted
From 18 March 2020: In order travel in and out of some unable to leave. service to Canadians. in mandated self-isolation, school
to enhance screening for the destinations. closures, closure of restaurants, bars
virus, all international flights will The special measures provide an opportunity for Violations may incur penalties and restricted public gatherings and
be directed to land only at As foreign governments persons to leave China (or other nations) as of up to CAD750,000 (approx. businesses closed except those
Canada’s international airports implement strict travel quickly as possible, remain in Canada until the US$530,000) in fines and/or deemed ‘essential services’ for each
in Montreal, Toronto, Calgary restrictions and as fewer outbreak is contained, and to extend the validity up to six months’ jurisdiction.
and Vancouver. This does not international transport of documents and/or reschedule appointments imprisonment.
apply to domestic travel from options are available, there for other applicants. In general, IRCC is
within Canada or flights from may be difficulty returning demonstrating considerable flexibility to Travellers with symptoms
the US, Mexico, Caribbean or St to Canada. accommodate individuals who have been affected within the 14 days of arrival in
Pierre and Miquelon. as a result of this pandemic. Canada need to contact their
provincial health authority or
health care provider and
advise them about their travel
history.
10Outbound travel/border Relief measures for temporary visa Health screenings and/or
Country Inbound travel/border restrictions Other relief measures
restrictions holders quarantines on arrival
Canada From 16 March 2020: The Government The Public Health Agency of Those who hold a valid work permit or Employers responsible for Liquor stores are deemed ‘essential
(continued) of Canada has banned the entry of all Canada has also advised have consular approval of a work newly arriving temporary services’ in most jurisdictions.
non-Canadian or non-permanent residents against all travel on cruise permit application are exempt from foreign workers (TFWs)
Contributors: to Canada. ships. travel bans to Canada, as are students employees complying with • Citizenship ceremonies and
Catherine Sas, who hold a valid study permit or who public health requirements citizenship tests have been
Jacqueline Bart Exemptions: received consular approval of their re: self-isolation and cancelled as of 14 March 2020
Immediate family members of study permit application prior to 18 quarantine, including until further notice.
and Yusra
Canadian citizens or permanent March 2020. separate accommodations if
Siddiquee
residents; symptoms. All TFWs are • The IRB (Immigration and
Crew members; Those currently in Canada whose status subject to 14-day isolation. Refugee Board of Canada) has
Persons assisting with the Covid-19 is about to expire must apply online for TFWs can be housed together postponed all in-person
response; an extension to their status prior to as long as they are not hearings and mediations (other
Persons providing an essential service; expiry. There is no fee waiver. mixing with people in 14-day than detention hearings) effective
Persons whose presence is found to be Applicants must apply online and meet isolation and are social from 17 March 2020 until 5 April
in the national interest; all requirements, including associated distancing. Employers must 2020. Further extensions of time
Holders of valid work or study permits; fees. cover all these housing costs. have been introduced for the
Persons with written notice of approval various stages of refugee
of a work permit application; No work is permitted during processing and are set out in a
Persons with written notice of approval 14-day isolation but Practice notice at: https://irb-
of a study permit prior to 18 March employers must meet all cisr.gc.ca/en/legal-
2020; obligation during that time policy/procedures/Pages/rpd-
Students in the health field; (eg, accommodation, pay, covid19.aspx.
Emergency service providers; benefits etc).
Licensed healthcare professionals with Immigration, Refugees and
proof of Canadian employment; On arrival, officers will ask all Citizenship Canada is continuing to
Persons delivering medial equipment travellers whether they have update and publish policy guidelines
or other medical deliveries required for a cough, fever or difficulty as the Covid-19 situation evolves.
patient care; or breathing, and visually
Persons whose applications for inspect them for signs of It is anticipated that further
permanent residence were approved illness. If a traveller shows clarification regarding the ability of
as of 18 March 2020. signs of an infectious disease, visa-exempt foreign nationals to apply
officials will contact a for a work permit at the port of entry
From 7 February 2020: IRCC closed all quarantine officer, who will without prior consular approval will be
11 of its Visa Application Centres (VACs) perform a more detailed provided shortly.
in China assessment. If necessary, a
quarantine officer may order
Boarding an aircraft also prohibited in all traveller be taken to hospital
cases where foreign national exhibits a or undergo a medical
fever and cough, or a fever and breathing examination and inform the
difficulties. local public health authority.Relief measures by country
Inbound
Outbound travel/border Relief measures for temporary Health screenings and/or
Country travel/border Other relief measures
restrictions visa holders quarantines on arrival
restrictions
France The borders of the France and its EU partners Emergency Law No 2020-290 of A 15-day quarantine implemented On 28 March, Prime Minister
Schengen Area have have decided to drastically 23 March 2020 to deal with the in France on 17 March has been Edouard Philippe announced that a
Contributor: been closed for 30 reduce international travel Covid-19 epidemic, and Order No extended until at least 17 April. decree would be published within
Karl Waheed days from 17 March through the closure of the 2020-328 of 25 March 2020 have days to allow doctors from
2020. Schengen Area’s external been promulgated. People living in France must stay at countries outside the EU to enter
borders. home. In case of displacement, an overseas territories to help in the
Non-EU nationals are The new legislation confirms the attestation must be detained, indicating fight against Covid-19.
not allowed to enter France has also decided to three-month extension of the reason of the displacement. A few
during this period of reduce travels and residency documents which were exemptions are possible but the
time. displacements on its national due to expire between 16 March and quarantine is strict and in cases where
territory. 15 May 2020, including long stay it is not respected, €200 fines must be
Exemptions: visas, residence permits, temporary paid.
• French citizens and A quarantine which had been in residence permits (récépissé), asylum
their family place for 15 days since 17 application certificates.
members; March has been extended until
• EU citizens and their at least 17 April. The purpose of the Order is to secure
family members; the legality of the presence on the
• residence permits territory of foreigners with expiring
holders and their permits, and to avoid any questioning
family members. of rights in a health context which
does not allow the prefectures to
French consulates process renewal requests under
abroad will not issue normal conditions.
any visa (long stay
visas, short term visas As this measure is applicable only on
and visas for overseas national territory, it is therefore
territories) until recommended not to leave France
further notice. with an expired residence permit.
12Relief measures by country
Inbound travel/border Outbound travel/border Relief measures for temporary Health screenings and/or
Country Other relief measures
restrictions restrictions visa holders quarantines on arrival
India The Government of India has stated International flights are not Visas of all foreign nationals who All foreign nationals who have In a bid to curb the spread
that all scheduled international allowed to land or depart from are already in India remain valid travelled to India from any of Covid-19, India is in
Contributor: commercial passenger services India. This is being announced in until their expiry. There are special location outside India or who lockdown for a 21-day
Poorvi Chothani will remain closed until 1830 multiple ad hoc announcements. provisions (set out below) for their in- may travel to India once period until 14 April 2020.
GMT, 14 April 2020. No incoming country extensions. international flights are All international passenger
scheduled international commercial Several states in India have permitted to land, may be airline services have been
passenger aircraft will be allowed to locked their borders limiting The Foreigners Regional Registration quarantined for a minimum suspended until 0000 IST
land and disembark its passengers travel within the country. Offices (FRROs) and Foreigners 14-day period on their arrival on 15 April 2020 (1830
in India until then. This restriction Registration Offices (FROs) have been to India. GMT on 14 April 2020).
will not apply to international all- Countries such as the UK and the temporarily authorised to provide
cargo operations and flights US are working with the Indian essential consular services for foreign All incoming travellers
specifically approved by the government and airlines to nationals who are currently unable to including Indian nationals who
Directorate General of Civil support their citizens by clearing leave India due to travel restrictions. have travelled or who are set
Aviation. flights to leave India, enabling to travel to India once
their citizens to return home. Consular-processed visas, electronic international flights are
All Indian visa services Germany and Israel have already visas (e-visas) or stipulations of stay permitted to land and who
(excluding in-country registration, obtained permission from the endorsed on the visas of all foreign have visited China, France,
visa extension and other visa Indian government with nationals which have expired or are set Germany, Iran, Italy, South
related formalities) have been evacuation flights having left to expire during the period from Korea, or Spain after 15
suspended until 15 April 2020. India. midnight 1 February 2020 to midnight February 2020 will be
30 April 2020 will be extended until quarantined for a minimum
India has temporarily suspended midnight 30 April 2020 on 14-day period on their arrival.
the visa-on-arrival facility for complimentary basis. To benefit from
Japanese and South Korean this service foreign nationals must
nationals. make an online application on the e-
FRRO portal. Foreign nationals whose
Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) visas have expired and who have made
cardholders in India are valid. an application to leave the country, will
However, OCI cardholders who be granted an exit permit without
are outside India cannot travel penalty for overstaying.
to India until 15 April 2020.
All domestic airlines have been
suspended until 2359 IST, 14 April
2020.Relief measures by country
Inbound
Outbound travel/border Relief measures for Health screenings and/or
Country travel/border Other relief measures
restrictions temporary visa holders quarantines on arrival
restrictions
Italy To date, all travel to To date, all travel other than The validity of all residence On arrival in Italy all passengers All government measures adopted
Italy, other than for for work, health purposes and permits which are due to expire shall: so far are valid until 3 April 2020.
Contributor: work, health purposes extraordinary personal needs between 31 January and 15 Depending on the spread of Covid-
Corrado Scivoletto and extraordinary (family reunion, repatriation April 2020 has been extended • observe a 14-day precautionary 19, it is expected that the measures
personal needs (family etc), is forbidden. until 15 June 2020. Applications quarantine period (this duty can will be extended (if not
reunion, repatriation for renewal will be filed after 15 be derogated from in case of strengthened) until at least the end
etc), is forbidden. On June. For work permits and individuals entering Italy for of April 2020.
boarding on any means residence permits, applications work purposes and for a
of public transport, the pending as of 23 February 2020, maximum of 72 hours); and
passenger must give or started after 23 February • make their arrival known to the
the carrier a declaration 2020, the period 23 February local unit of the national
stating the reasons for 2020 to 15 April 2020 shall not healthcare system for any
travel and the address be taken into account. further monitoring. The same
at which the goes for those using private
precautionary Immigration offices are means of transport. Workers of
quarantine will be temporarily closed, and are carriers of goods and other
observed. This provision currently only processing shipping companies are exempt
does not apply to international protection from the above rules.
travelling staff of applications (asylum, subsidiary
carriers having their protection, humanitarian visas),
registered office in as well as carrying out expulsion
Italy, doctors and procedures.
nurses. or cross-border
workers. Carriers shall
check the temperature
of each passenger and
prohibit anyone
showing Covid-19
symptoms.Relief measures by country
Inbound travel/border Outbound travel/border Relief measures for Health screenings and/or Other relief measures (eg,
Country
restrictions restrictions temporary visa holders quarantines on arrival automatic extensions)
Mexico The US and Mexican governments have released a joint Extensions for temporary The Ministry of Health is conducting
statement relating to travel restrictions, aiming to reduce the residents or sundry random health screenings of foreign or
Contributor: spread of Covid-19. procedures for temporary or Mexican individuals entering Mexico.
Margarita Ortiz permanent residents
Hernández Magro As a first measure, all travel considered non-essential is
restricted, ie, travel involving recreational activities and The Ministry of the Interior
tourism. established has suspended all
proceedings for temporary and
As part of the joint initiative, the following are recognised as permanent residents, including
essential activities and services, which are mentioned but not extensions, effective until 30
limited to: April 2020.
• trade; Local and federal offices of the
• transport of goods and perishables; National Immigration Institute
• purchase of life-saving medicines; remain open to the public.
• health and emergency services;
• work trips (with supporting documentation);
• temporary and permanent residents;
• visits of diplomatic or official nature; and
• other similar, approved by the governments of both
countries.
All non-essential travel will be suspended to prioritise the above
criteria.
It is worth noting that, to date, the restriction is only applicable
to arrivals throughout US-Mexico land border.
The joint initiative came into effect on 21 March 2020, and is
initially valid for 30 days, subject to extension on review.
Mexican consulates abroad will not issue visas until further
notice.Relief measures by country Health
screenings
Inbound travel/border Outbound travel/border Other relief
Country Relief measures for temporary visa holders and/or
restrictions restrictions measures
quarantines on
arrival
The Netherlands The borders of the Schengen Area The Netherlands and its EU Schengen visa holders must now apply for an extension with Travellers entering
have been closed for 30 days from partners have decided to the Dutch Immigration Service (IND). Either visas must expire the Netherlands,
Contributor: 17 March 2020. drastically reduce within a month, airlines have cancelled a visa holder’s flight who do not fall
Barbara Wegelin international travels with the home and visa holders must still meet the Schengen visa’s under the scope of
Non-EU nationals are not allowed to closure of the external conditions. the border closures,
enter during this period of time. borders of the Schengen must undergo a ‘fit
Area. Applications for an extension must be submitted by phone. If to fly’ attestation.
Exemptions: approved, extensions will be registered in the Visa Information
• Dutch citizens and their family Since 17 March, the System (VIS), and the holder will receive a sticker for their
members; Netherlands has encouraged passport. Holders will also receive written confirmation.
• EU citizens and their family citizens and residents to stay Visa free nationals cannot apply for an extension to the
members; at home and work from maximum 90-day term of residence in the Netherlands.
• Residence permits holders and home, except for essential
their family members. activities. This measure is set The IND announced that the Dutch government understands
to continue until at least 28 that it may be more difficult to return home. The authorities
Dutch embassies and consulates April. Non-essential will, therefore, not strictly enforce the 90-day rule.
abroad will not issue any visa (international) travel is
(long stay visas, short term visas and discouraged. However, holders must not stay longer than strictly required
visas for overseas territories) until and must continue to look for ways of returning home.
further notice. Prospective family A vignette is now available Normally former holders of residence permits are required to
reunification applicants cannot take for cross-border leave the Netherlands as soon as their permit has expired. If
the mandatory Dutch language exam Belgian/Dutch workers with that is not possible due to travel restrictions, holders are
at Dutch embassies. crucial professions or who required to lodge an application to extend their residence
provide vital services. permit.
Passenger flights from Austria, China Workers with vignettes can
(including Hong Kong), Iran, Italy, pass through Belgium’s If a residence permit extension is not an option, it will be
South Korea and Spain are not border controls more quickly. possible for a foreign citizen to ask for a formal return decision
allowed to land in the Netherlands with an extended deadline to return to their country of origin.
until 10 April 2020. The maximum duration of such an extension is 90 days. This
application can be submitted in person at one of the IND
The European Commission has offices. The IND will make an immediate decision. An extension
proposed that EU Member States to the deadline does not constitute legal residence.
extend border closure until 15 May
2020. Where possible, temporary permit holders are encouraged to
apply for an extension online. Applications will continue to be
processed by IND officials working remotely.Relief measures by country
Health screenings
Inbound travel/border Outbound travel/border and/or Other relief
Country Relief measures for temporary visa holders
restrictions restrictions quarantines on measures
arrival
New Zealand 21 April 2020: The government will 7 April 2020: The The New Zealand government has exercised an omnibus 10 April 2020: All cruise ships
announce whether level 4 will continue government announced transit extension to all temporary visas (student, visitor or work) Health screening banned on 16 March
Contributor: or whether level 3 will begin on 24 April agreements allowing New expiring between 2 April and 9 July. They are automatically became compulsory from docking until 30
David Ryken after four weeks (level 3 will allow Zealand citizens, residents and extended to 25 September, with email notifications to the visa- for all arrivals (prior June.
businesses to restart but without any immediate families and holder being sent off. to going into
customer face-to-face contact). Australian citizens, residents isolation or, where State of emergency
Restaurants, cafes, hairdressers and and immediate family to Those who have applied for further visas online will be issued symptomatic, into announced on 25
retail will remain closed until level 2 is transit through New Zealand with interim visas in the meantime. quarantine, arriving March, providing
reached. Construction and with a requirement to remain on any flight that wider powers to the
manufacturing may begin but only airside. This would also apply Students that work at supermarkets are temporarily permitted to departed after 2359 police for breaches of
where person-to-person distancing can to citizens and residents of work more than the permitted 20 hours per week, and those on on 9 April. No end the level 4 stay-at-
be accomplished. Chile and citizens and work visas already employed at supermarkets are permitted to date to compulsory home and essential
residents of a number of work in positions outside of their stated job descriptions (to assist testing has been travel-only
9 April 2020: At 2359, all arrivals at countries in Europe and South with a short supply issue at the supermarkets, deemed an given. requirements.
the airport (by now only returning America, transiting through essential service).
citizens, residents, immediate family New Zealand to a hub in 16 March 2020: All Citizenship
and Australian citizens and those Canada or the US (Auckland Student visa-holders will be able to defer their studies to later in persons arriving in ceremonies have
normally resident in New Zealand) to airport is a major transit point 2020 or to 201. Their visas will be made valid. Travel dates will New Zealand are been cancelled and
be placed in government-paid between Australia and South be changeable. required to self- are not currently
accommodation for 14 days. All America and between the isolate, although it required (citizenship,
returnees are unable to leave the Pacific Islands and either As horticulture and viticulture are essential industries, workers soon became when approved, will
facility but can get fresh air (on the Europe, South America or already in New Zealand or who have had an automatic work visa evident that proceed without the
premises of the facility only). Essential Australia). Similarly, returning extension through to 25 September will be able to apply for work travellers were need for a ceremony
travel (to supermarkets etc) not New Zealand citizens and in other regions etc (however, employers will be required to arriving with no plan for now).
permitted. Those who are symptomatic residents may transit through obtain Immigration New Zealand’s confirmation to change work to self-isolate,
are placed in full quarantine (ie unable airports in Australia on the visa conditions). Horticultural workers still overseas at the time of Residential rent
to leave their room for exercise). The basis of a reciprocal agreement the lockdown may apply for an exemption to the arrivals ban as increases are frozen
cut-off time was the time of flight and presumably Santiago in they are essential workers, being part of the food-chain. This will for six months.
departure from an overseas port. Chile (though this has not need to be done prior to travel, however, as in the case of all
Facilities are at each of the three major been confirmed). travel exemptions involving non-New Zealand and Australian
international airport cities: Auckland, citizens and those normally resident in New Zealand, and their
Wellington and Christchurch. immediate family.You can also read
