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Ecuador
Cheap Flights Open for travel Telegram bot
[We have 50 restrictions for 243 countries and regions]

Ecuador travel restrictions

COVID-19 Vacc. -160.08%
Open for citizens: yes Open for foreigners: partial Open for tourism: no Quarantine: partial
Airlines Updates
Published on 12.01.2022, EquAir:

Ecuador’s EquAir launches commercial operations

Published on 24.12.2021, Equair:

Equair suspends commencement of flights due to COVID-19 cases

Published on 07.12.2021, EQUAIR, Ultra Air:

South American startups EQUAIR and Ultra Air get their first jets.

Published on 07.12.2021, Avianca Ecuador:

Avianca Ecuador to commence Guayaquil-Lima service on 21JAN22.

Published on 22.11.2021, Equair:

New Boeing 737NG Startup: Ecuador’s EQUAIR.

Published on 28.09.2021, Ecuatoriana Airlines:

Ecuatoriana Airlines Sets Early 2022 Launch Date With 3 Dash 8s.

Published on 30.06.2021
Ecuador’s Galapagos Airways eyes domestic schedules
Source: https://www.ch-aviation.com/portal/news/105298-ecuadors-galapagos-airways-eyes-domestic-schedules
Published on 06.07.2021
Latest news:
Source:
Published on 30.06.2021
Ecuador’s Galapagos Airways eyes domestic schedules
Source: https://www.ch-aviation.com/portal/news/105298-ecuadors-galapagos-airways-eyes-domestic-schedules
Published on 25.05.2021
Ecuatoriana Airlines to focus on domestic operations in first two years of operations
Source: https://centreforaviation.com/news/ecuatoriana-airlines-to-focus-on-domestic-operations-in-first-two-years-of-operations-1076010

Published on 12.10.2020
LATAM resumes flights between Lima and Quito

Full Restrictions
Open for travel from Ecuador
Crossing Rules

Entry restrictions
Passengers must have a medical certificate with a negative Coronavirus (COVID-19) RT-PCR test result issued at most 10 days before arrival.
—
A completed “Declaracion de salud del viajero” must be presented upon arrival. The form can be found at https://www.cancilleria.gob.ec/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/formulario_de_salud_del_viajero_revisado.pdf.pdf_1-1.pdf .

Quarantine is possible
Passengers could be subject to a Coronavirus (COVID-19) antigen test upon arrival and quarantine.
– This does not apply to passengers younger than 14 years.

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Flight Restrictions
Published on 24.12.2021

1. Passengers arriving from or who have transited through Botswana, Egypt, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa or Zimbabwe are not allowed to enter. - This does
not apply to: - nationals of Ecuador; - permanent residents of Ecuador.

2. Passengers must have a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test taken at most 72 hours before departure. - This does not apply to: - passengers younger than 2 years; - passengers with a
positive COVID-19 RT-PCR test result issued at least 1 month before departure and a medical certificate stating that they are not contagious.

3. Passengers must have a COVID-19 vaccination certificate showing that they were fully vaccinated at least 14 days before departure. - This does not apply to: - nationals of
Ecuador who left Ecuador before 1 December 2021 and are not fully vaccinated; - passengers younger than 16 years; - passengers with a positive COVID-19 RT-PCR test issued at most 6
months before departure and a medical certificate stating that they could not be vaccinated due to having had COVID-19; - passengers with a medical certificate of contraindication
who cannot be vaccinated.

4. A completed "Declaracion de salud del viajero" must be presented upon arrival. The form can be found at https://tinyurl.com/ycbahwjv

5. Passengers are subject to medical screening.

6. Passengers could be subject to a COVID-19 antigen test upon arrival. - This does not apply to passengers younger than 14 years.

7. Passengers could be subject to quarantine for up to 14 days.

Published on 09.12.2021

1. Passengers arriving from or who have transited through Botswana, Egypt, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa or Zimbabwe are not allowed to enter. - This does
not apply to: - nationals of Ecuador; - permanent residents of Ecuador.

2. Passengers must have a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test taken at most 72 hours before departure. - This does not apply to: - passengers younger than 2 years; - passengers with a
positive COVID-19 RT-PCR test result issued at least 1 month before departure and a medical certificate stating that they are not contagious.

3. Passengers must have a COVID-19 vaccination certificate showing that they were fully vaccinated at least 14 days before departure. - This does not apply to: - passengers
younger than 16 years; - passengers with a positive COVID-19 RT-PCR test issued at most 6 months before departure and a medical certificate stating that they could not be
vaccinated due to having had COVID-19.

4. A completed "Declaracion de salud del viajero" must be presented upon arrival. The form can be found at https://tinyurl.com/ycbahwjv

5. Passengers are subject to medical screening.

6. Passengers could be subject to a COVID-19 antigen test upon arrival. - This does not apply to passengers younger than 14 years.

7. Passengers could be subject to quarantine for up to 14 days.

Published on 08.12.2021

1. Passengers arriving from or who have transited through Botswana, Egypt, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa or Zimbabwe are not allowed to enter. - This does
not apply to: - nationals of Ecuador; - permanent residents of Ecuador.

2. Passengers must have a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test taken at most 72 hours before departure. - This does not apply to: - passengers younger than 16 years; - passengers with a
positive COVID-19 RT-PCR test result issued at least 1 month before departure and a medical certificate stating that they are not contagious.

3. Passengers must have a COVID-19 vaccination certificate showing that they were fully vaccinated at least 14 days before departure. - This does not apply to: - passengers
younger than 16 years; - passengers with a positive COVID-19 RT-PCR test issued at most 6 months before departure and a medical certificate stating that they could not be
vaccinated due to having had COVID-19.

4. Passengers older than 2 years and younger than 16 years must have a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test taken at most 72 hours before departure.

5. A completed "Declaracion de salud del viajero" must be presented upon arrival. The form can be found at https://tinyurl.com/ycbahwjv

6. Passengers are subject to medical screening.

7. Passengers could be subject to a COVID-19 antigen test upon arrival. - This does not apply to passengers younger than 14 years.

8. Passengers could be subject to quarantine for up to 14 days.

Published on 06.12.2021

1. Passengers arriving from or who have transited through Botswana, Egypt, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa or Zimbabwe are not allowed to enter. - This does
not apply to: - nationals of Ecuador; - permanent residents of Ecuador.

2. Passengers must have a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test taken at most 72 hours before departure; and - a COVID-19 vaccination certificate showing that they were fully vaccinated
at least 14 days before departure. - This does not apply to: - passengers younger than 16 years; - passengers arriving from or who have transited through Botswana, Egypt, Eswatini,
India, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa or Zimbabwe.

3. Passengers arriving from or who have transited through Botswana, Egypt, Eswatini, India, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa or Zimbabwe must have a negative COVID-19
RT-PCR test taken at most 72 hours before departure. - This does not apply to passengers younger than 16 years.

4. Passengers older than 2 years and younger than 16 years must have a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test taken at most 72 hours before departure.

5. A completed "Declaracion de salud del viajero" must be presented upon arrival. The form can be found at https://tinyurl.com/ycbahwjv

6. Passengers are subject to medical screening.

7. Passengers could be subject to a COVID-19 antigen test upon arrival. - This does not apply to passengers younger than 14 years.

8. Passengers could be subject to quarantine for up to 14 days.

Published on 01.12.2021

1. Passengers arriving from or who have transited through Botswana, Egypt, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa or Zimbabwe are not allowed to enter.

2. Passengers must have: - a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test taken at most 72 hours before departure; or - a COVID-19 vaccination certificate showing that they were fully vaccinated
at least 14 days before departure. This does not apply to: - passengers younger than 16 years; - passengers arriving from or who have transited through India.

3. Passengers older than 1 year and younger than 16 years must have a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test taken at most 72 hours before departure.

4. Passengers arriving from or who have transited through India must have a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test taken at most 72 hours before departure. - This does not apply to
passengers younger than 16 years.

5. Passengers could be subject to a COVID-19 antigen test upon arrival. - This does not apply to passengers younger than 14 years.

6. Passengers are subject to medical screening.

7. A completed "Declaracion de salud del viajero" must be presented upon arrival. The form can be found at
https://www.cancilleria.gob.ec/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/formulario_de_salud_del_viajero_revisado.pdf.pdf_1-1.pdf

8. Passengers arriving from or who have transited through India are subject to quarantine for 10 days at their own expense.

published 21.09.2020

Entry restrictions
Passengers arriving without a medical certificate with a negative Coronavirus (COVID-19) RT-PCR test result issued at most 10 days before arrival are subject to a PCR test upon arrival and self-isolation.

Quarantine

Self-isolation at own accommodation- subject to testing.

Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days, from the date of the test. Self-isolation for non-residents can be carried out in any hotel, at their own expense. The full address of where the passenger will self-isolate should be included in the Health Status Declaration Form.
Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
If, on arrival, a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, they will be required to take a RT-PCR test. If the result is positive, passengers will be instructed to self isolate for 14 days.

From India: All passengers arriving from India, even if they have only transited the countries, must present a negative RT-PCR test, taken up to 72 hours prior to boarding their flight, regardless of whether they are fully vaccinated or not. These passengers must self isolate for 10 days either in a private home or in a hotel, at their own expense.
From USA: From 8 January 2022, passengers travelling from the USA, who are residents in Ecuador, can travel without a RT-PCR negative test given the high demand and constraints to access this test in this country. However, passengers who cannot get this test have to present their full COVID-19 vaccination certificate, received at least 14 days before their flight date. On arrival in Ecuador, these passengers will be required to get a RT-PCR test, at their own expense, and to follow mandatory self-isolation for 14 days. This measure will be enforced until 16 January.

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Certification

COVID-19 negative certification required for entering the country.
Upon arrival in Ecuador, all passengers will be required to complete a Health Declaration Form
with their itinerary and local contact details. You must also present a negative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) qualitative test for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours prior to boarding your flight to Ecuador.
From 1 December 2021, anyone over 16 years old must present their full COVID-19 vaccination certificate (i.e. both doses for those vaccinations which consist of two doses), received at least 14 days prior the flight date, and a negative RT-PCR test, taken up to 72 hours prior to boarding their flight.
Passengers from 2 to 15 years old (11 months and 29 days) must present a negative RT-PCR test, taken 72 hours before the flight.
Only children under 2 years old are exempt from the RT-PCR test or the COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement.
From India: All passengers arriving from India, even if they have only transited the countries, must present a negative RT-PCR test, taken up to 72 hours prior to boarding their flight, regardless of whether they are fully vaccinated or not.
In response to the new variant ‘Omicron’, from 1 December 2021, all passengers arriving from or transiting through South Africa, Botswana, Egypt, Mozambique, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Eswantini (Swaziland) and Namibia will not be allowed to enter the country.
From USA: From 8 January 2022, passengers travelling from the USA, who are residents in Ecuador, can travel without a RT-PCR negative test given the high demand and constraints to access this test in this country. However, passengers who cannot get this test have to present their full COVID-19 vaccination certificate, received at least 14 days before their flight date. On arrival in Ecuador, these passengers will be required to get a RT-PCR test, at their own expense, and to follow mandatory self-isolation for 14 days. This measure will be enforced until 16 January.
Passengers arriving from countries whose regulations state that COVID-19 vaccination is available only after 6 months of having been infected, and who are thus unable to show their full vaccination certificate, will be required to present an official document proving this regulation (valid for 6 months) and a negative RT-PCR test.

*Travel to and from the Galapagos: All travellers over 16 years old wishing to enter the Islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours prior to the date of the flight to the Galapagos Islands along with a full COVID-19 vaccination certificate (i.e. both doses for those vaccinations which consist of two doses, or its equivalent), received at least 14 days prior the flight date. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review.
Children between 2 and 16 years must present a negative RT-PCR test for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours prior embarking the flight.

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Vaccination
COVID-19 Total Vaccination date: 2022-01-12
COVID-19 Total Vaccination: 28635431
COVID-19 Daily Vaccination: 106618
COVID-19 Vacc. (per 100 citizens, %): 160.08
COVID-19 Daily Vacc. (per 1 million citizens): 5960

As of 22 March 2021, travellers who have had their full COVID-19 vaccination (i.e. both doses for those vaccinations which consist of two doses), received at least 14 days prior the flight date, can present their vaccination card, or its equivalent, instead of the above negative RT-PCR or rapid test result. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review.

Read more

Full Restrictions

  • Ecuador Latest news:

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador: The land border with Peru remains closed. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via the Huaquillas southern border checkpoint. The land border with Colombia opened on the 16 December to all travellers, but only through the ‘Rumichaca’ international checkpoint, from 8am to 5pm.
    Most ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed. As of October 2021, international cruise ship operations are permitted in Esmeraldas, Guayaquil, Manta and Puerto Baquerizo ports.
    As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you to contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.
    As of October 2021, international cruise ship operations are authorised at the following ports: Esmeraldas, Manta, Guayaquil and Puerto Bolivar. However, there are strict guidelines and measures to comply with to obtain the relevant permissions from the competent Ecuadorean authorities.
    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival in Ecuador, all passengers will be required to complete a Health Declaration Form
    with their itinerary and local contact details. You must also present a negative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) qualitative test for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours prior to boarding your flight to Ecuador. This is a mandatory requirement, which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board.
    From 1 December 2021, anyone over 16 years old must present their full COVID-19 vaccination certificate (i.e. both doses for those vaccinations which consist of two doses), received at least 14 days prior the flight date, and a negative RT-PCR test, taken up to 72 hours prior to boarding their flight.
    Passengers from 2 to 15 years old (11 months and 29 days) must present a negative RT-PCR test, taken 72 hours before the flight.
    The use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review. See Demonstrating your COVID-19 status
    Passengers in transit are subject to the submission of the above COVID-19 test and vaccination card. You should arrange to take a private test.
    Only children under 2 years old are exempt from the RT-PCR test or the COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement. Airline crew members are not subject to the above requirements as long as they are not staying overnight in the country.
    If, on arrival, a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, they will be required to take a RT-PCR test. If the result is positive, passengers will be instructed to self isolate for 14 days.
    All passengers arriving from India, even if they have only transited the countries, must present a negative RT-PCR test, taken up to 72 hours prior to boarding their flight, regardless of whether they are fully vaccinated or not. These passengers must self isolate for 10 days either in a private home or in a hotel, at their own expense. The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) is responsible for following up this requirement.
    In response to the new variant ‘Omicron’, from 1 December 2021, all passengers arriving from or transiting through South Africa, Botswana, Egypt, Mozambique, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Eswantini (Swaziland) and Namibia will not be allowed to enter the country.
    From 8 January 2022, passengers travelling from the USA, who are residents in Ecuador, can travel without a RT-PCR negative test given the high demand and constraints to access this test in this country. However, passengers who cannot get this test have to present their full COVID-19 vaccination certificate, received at least 14 days before their flight date. On arrival in Ecuador, these passengers will be required to get a RT-PCR test, at their own expense, and to follow mandatory self-isolation for 14 days. This measure will be enforced until 16 January.
    Passengers arriving from countries whose regulations state that COVID-19 vaccination is available only after 6 months of having been infected, and who are thus unable to show their full vaccination certificate, will be required to present an official document proving this regulation (valid for 6 months) and a negative RT-PCR test.
    *Demonstrating your COVID-19 status: Ecuador will accept proof of COVID-19 recovery and vaccination record and proof of COVID-19 vaccination issued in the Crown Dependencies. Your appointment card from vaccination centres is not designed to be used as proof of vaccination and should not be used to demonstrate your vaccine status.
    *Quarantine requirements: Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days, from the date of the test. Self-isolation for non-residents can be carried out in any hotel, at their own expense. The full address of where the passenger will self-isolate should be included in the Health Status Declaration Form.
    Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes. The Ministry of Public Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols
    that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only).
    If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Public Health website. The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    *Travel to and from the Galapagos: Tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August 2020. The local authorities created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands.
    All travellers over 16 years old wishing to enter the Islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours prior to the date of the flight to the Galapagos Islands along with a full COVID-19 vaccination certificate (i.e. both doses for those vaccinations which consist of two doses, or its equivalent), received at least 14 days prior the flight date. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review. See ‘Demonstrating your COVID-19 status’
    Children between 2 and 16 years must present a negative RT-PCR test for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours prior embarking the flight.
    Any passengers presenting COVID-19 related symptoms will be denied entry to the Islands, and a Ministry of Public Health team will activate the relevant protocols.
    National and foreign tourists must also present evidence of a return flight, as well as the Galapagos Transit Control Card, to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. There is no longer a requirement for a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’). Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists. For inter-island travel, all passengers over 12 years must present their complete vaccination certificate.

    Internal Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) also provides an information page. However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account.
    *Public spaces and services: Power to impose traffic restrictions and controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area. The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • in-person school classes were suspended in 2020. However, voluntary blended classes (mix of in-person and online) have been progressively allowed to take place, since 7 June 2021, if the school’s COVID action plan has been properly approved by the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE)
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app
    • authorised labs to undertake COVID-19 tests

    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • the land border with Peru remains closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and the Huaquillas northern and southern border checkpoints
    • the land border with Colombia (Rumichaca) opened on 17 December 2021 to all travellers, but only through the ‘Rumichaca’ international check-point, from 8am to 5pm. You are required to present your COVID-19 complete dose vaccination card and a negative PCR test result
    • most ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed. As of October 2021, international cruise ship operations are permitted in Esmeraldas, Guayaquil, Manta and Puerto Baquerizo ports
    • mandatory COVID-19 vaccination for Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents
    Since the beginning of January 2022 the following measures are in place:
    • maximum public attendance capacity of 75% in fairs, shopping centres, markets, supermarkets (in addition only one person per family may enter at a time), museums and financial and government establishments;
    • maximum public attendance capacity of 50% in restaurants, food courts, places of worship, entrepreneurship fairs, cinemas and theatres, gyms, thermal baths and spas; the selling and consumption of food and drinks at cinemas and theatres is not permitted;
    • closure of bars, clubs and convention centres, and prohibition of public and private events, including: receptions, concerts, processions, religious events in public spaces, New Year’s Eve celebrations, traditional festive gatherings and local neighbourhood events;
    • strict compliance with biosecurity protocols, use of face mask, frequent hand-washing, appropriate ventilation and social distancing;
    • local governments which have beaches/bathing areas to establish a maximum public attendance capacity of 75% and opening hours of 06:00 until 18:00;
    • the National Sanitary Authority has issued a regulation requiring all people over 12 (including foreign tourists) to present their COVID-19 vaccination card (showing 2 complete doses) to enter any establishment that attends the public for non-essential services (for example, but not limited to, banks, shops, supermarkets, restaurants, transport, etc). This rule has been also enforced at airports. This will not apply to public sector institutions and for essential services such as health and education. The national police will be in charge of enforcement together with any relevant local authority;
    • increasing of transport frequencies to 100%
    • from 10 to 16 January 2022, in-person school classes will be suspended, to enable teachers and students over 5 years old to get their COVID-19 second dose and booster vaccinations.
    • from 4 to 23 January 2022, maximum capacity of 50% for in-person working, except from strategic sectors. Same recommendation for private entities
    • as of 17 January 2022, transport operators will be responsible for enforcing the mandatory presentation of COVID-19 vaccination certificates from all passengers over 5 years old, for all inter-district, interstate, urban and tourist buses. Random checks will be implemented by municipal governments and the National Transport Agency (ANT)
    Please note that the power to impose these restrictions rests with local authorities, and the COE may only make recommendations. As a result, you may see some discrepancies between local areas (see advice for Quito below).
    The power to impose further restrictions, including curfew hours, transit and other controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring.
    Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol sale and consumption.
    We strongly recommend that you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only).
    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    *Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times.
    All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities.
    The “Hoy No Circula” circulation private vehicle restriction system is no longer in place; the former “Pico y Placa” system was reinstated from 4 November 2021.
    Vehicles with number plates ending in the following numbers will have restrictions on the given days below, and will not be allowed to circulate from 6am to 9.30pm and from 4pm to 9pm on the assigned days: Monday: 0, 1; Tuesday: 2, 3; Wednesday 4, 5; Thursday 6, 7 and Friday 8, 9.
    There are no vehicle restrictions to circulate at the weekends and on official public holidays.
    Special safe passage documents (“salvoconductos”) are no longer valid and cannot be used during “Pico y Placa”. However, “Pico y Placa” does not apply to over 65 year-olds who drive their own vehicle.
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers.
    Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    11.01.2022

  • Ecuador Latest news: Government bans travelers from eight African countries, opening of border with Colombia delayed (ElUniversal, 29.11.2021)

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador: The land border with Peru remains closed. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via the Huaquillas southern border checkpoint. The land border with Colombia opened on the 16 December to all travellers, but only through the ‘Rumichaca’ international checkpoint, from 0800 to 1700. Most ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed. As of October 2021, international cruise ship operations are permitted in Esmeraldas, Guayaquil, Manta and Puerto Baquerizo ports.
    As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you to contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary. As of October 2021, international cruise ship operations are authorised at the following ports: Esmeraldas, Manta, Guayaquil and Puerto Bolivar. However, there are strict guidelines and measures to comply with to obtain the relevant permissions from the competent Ecuadorean authorities.
    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival in Ecuador, all passengers will be required to complete a Health Declaration Form with their itinerary and local contact details. You must also present a negative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) qualitative test for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours prior to your arrival in the country. This is a mandatory requirement, which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board.
    From 1 December, anyone over 16 years old must present their full COVID-19 vaccination certificate (i.e. both doses for those vaccinations which consist of two doses), received at least 14 days prior the flight date, and a negative RT-PCR test, taken up to 72 hours prior to boarding their flight. Passengers from 2 to 15 years old (11 months and 29 days) must present a negative RT-PCR test, taken 72 hours before the flight.
    The use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review. See Demonstrating your COVID-19 status
    Passengers in transit are subject to the submission of the above COVID-19 test and vaccination card. You should not use the testing service to get a test in order to facilitate your travel to another country. You should arrange to take a private test. Only children under 2 years old are exempt from the RT-PCR test or the COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement. Airline crew members are not subject to the above requirements as long as they are not staying overnight in the country.
    If, on arrival, a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, they will be required to take a RT-PCR test. If the result is positive, passengers will be instructed to self isolate for 14 days.
    All passengers arriving from India, even if they have only transited the countries, must present a negative RT-PCR test, taken up to 72 hours prior to boarding their flight, regardless of whether they are fully vaccinated or not. These passengers must self isolate for 10 days either in a private home or in a hotel, at their own expense. The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) is responsible for following up this requirement.
    In response to the new variant ‘Omicron’, from 1 December 2021, all passengers arriving from or transiting through South Africa, Botswana, Egypt, Mozambique, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Eswantini (Swaziland) and Namibia will not be allowed to enter the country.
    *Demonstrating your COVID-19 status: Ecuador will accept proof of COVID-19 recovery and vaccination record and proof of COVID-19 vaccination issued in the Crown Dependencies. Your appointment card from vaccination centres is not designed to be used as proof of vaccination and should not be used to demonstrate your vaccine status.
    *Quarantine requirements: Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days, from the date of the test. Self-isolation for non-residents can be carried out in any hotel, at their own expense. The full address of where the passenger will self-isolate should be included in the Health Status Declaration Form.
    Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    The Ministry of Public Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only).
    If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Public Health website. The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    *Travel to and from the Galapagos: Tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August 2020. The local authorities created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands.
    All travellers over 16 years old wishing to enter the Islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours prior to the date of the flight to the Galapagos Islands and a full COVID-19 vaccination certificate (i.e. both doses for those vaccinations which consist of two doses, or its equivalent), received at least 14 days prior the flight date. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review. See ‘Demonstrating your COVID-19 status’.
    Children between 2 and 16 years must present a negative RT-PCR test for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours prior embarking the flight. Any passengers presenting COVID-19 related symptoms will be denied entry to the Islands, and a Ministry of Public Health team will activate the relevant protocols.
    National and foreign tourists must also present evidence of a return flight, as well as the Galapagos Transit Control Card, to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. There is no longer a requirement for a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’). Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists.

    Internal Restrictions:

    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) also provides an information page. However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account.
    *Public spaces and services: Power to impose traffic restrictions and controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • in-person school classes were suspended in 2020. However, voluntary blended classes (mix of in-person and online) have been progressively allowed to take place, since 7 June 2021, if the school’s COVID action plan has been properly approved by the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE)
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app
    • authorised labs to undertake COVID-19 tests
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • the land border with Peru remains closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and the Huaquillas northern and southern border checkpoints
    • the land border with Colombia (Rumichaca) opened on 17 December 2021 to all travellers, but only through the ‘Rumichaca’ international check-point, from 0800 to 1700. You are required to present your COVID-19 complete dose vaccination card and a negative PCR test result
    • most ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed. As of October 2021, international cruise ship operations are permitted in Esmeraldas, Guayaquil, Manta and Puerto Baquerizo ports
    On 21 December, Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) announced that all local municipalities are requested to implement the following restrictions from 23 December 2021 until 23 January 2022:
    • maximum public attendance capacity of 75% in fairs, shopping centres, markets, supermarkets (in addition only one person per family may enter at a time), museums and financial and government establishments;
    • maximum public attendance capacity of 50% in restaurants, food courts, places of worship, entrepreneurship fairs, cinemas and theatres, gyms, thermal baths and spas; the selling and consumption of food and drinks at cinemas and theatres is not permitted;
    • closure of bars, clubs and convention centres, and prohibition of public and private events, including: receptions, concerts, processions, religious events in public spaces, New Year’s Eve celebrations, traditional festive gatherings and local neighbourhood events;
    • strict compliance with biosecurity protocols, use of face mask, frequent hand-washing, appropriate ventilation and social distancing;
    • local governments which have beaches/bathing areas to establish a maximum public attendance capacity of 75% and opening hours of 06:00 until 18:00;
    • the National Sanitary Authority will issue a regulation requiring all people over 12 to present their COVID-19 vaccination card (showing 2 complete doses) to enter any establishment that attends the public (for example, but not limited to, banks, shops, supermarkets, restaurants etc) offices. This will not apply to public sector institutions. The national police will be in charge of enforcement together with any relevant local authority;
    • Increasing of transport frequencies to 100%
    Please note that the power to impose these restrictions rests with local authorities, and the COE may only make recommendations. As a result, you may see some discrepancies between local areas (see advice for Quito below).
    The power to impose further restrictions, including curfew hours, transit and other controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring.
    Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol sale and consumption.
    We strongly recommend that you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only).
    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    *Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times.
    All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities.
    The “Hoy No Circula” circulation private vehicle restriction system is no longer in place; the former “Pico y Placa” system was reinstated from 4 November 2021.
    Vehicles with number plates ending in the following numbers will have restrictions on the given days below, and will not be allowed to circulate from 06:00 to 09.30 and from 16:00 to 21:00 on the assigned days: Monday: 0, 1; Tuesday: 2, 3; Wednesday 4, 5; Thursday 6, 7 and Friday 8, 9.
    There are no vehicle restrictions to circulate at the weekends and on official public holidays.
    Special safe passage documents (“salvoconductos”) are no longer valid and cannot be used during “Pico y Placa”. However, “Pico y Placa” does not apply to over 65 year-olds who drive their own vehicle.
    Other restrictions in Quito announced on 22 December 2021 are:
    • sporting activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are suspended temporarily.
    • you will be fined 50% of the minimum monthly salary if you are found drinking in public spaces (including inside vehicles).
    • bars, clubs, entertainment centres can operate with a maximum capacity of 30%
    • maximum capacity for transport set at 75%
    • maximum capacity of 65% in shopping centres, markets, supermarkets and gyms
    • financial institutions will have a 60% maximum capacity
    • for corporate and academic events, conventions and receptions in closed spaces the maximum capacity will be 70% and for open spaces 80%
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website
    for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers.
    Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).
    *If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment there.

    Read more
    30.12.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news: Government bans travelers from eight African countries, opening of border with Colombia delayed (ElUniversal, 29.11.2021)

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador: The land border with Peru remains closed. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via the Huaquillas southern border checkpoint. The land border with Colombia opened on the 16 December to all travellers, but only through the ‘Rumichaca’ international checkpoint, from 0800 to 1700. Most ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed. As of October 2021, international cruise ship operations are permitted in Esmeraldas, Guayaquil, Manta and Puerto Baquerizo ports.
    As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you to contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary. As of October 2021, international cruise ship operations are authorised at the following ports: Esmeraldas, Manta, Guayaquil and Puerto Bolivar. However, there are strict guidelines and measures to comply with to obtain the relevant permissions from the competent Ecuadorean authorities.
    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival in Ecuador, all passengers will be required to complete a Health Declaration Form with their itinerary and local contact details. You must also present a negative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) qualitative test for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours prior to your arrival in the country. This is a mandatory requirement, which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board.
    From 1 December, anyone over 16 years old must present their full COVID-19 vaccination certificate (i.e. both doses for those vaccinations which consist of two doses), received at least 14 days prior the flight date, and a negative RT-PCR test, taken up to 72 hours prior to boarding their flight. Passengers from 2 to 15 years old (11 months and 29 days) must present a negative RT-PCR test, taken 72 hours before the flight.
    The use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review. See Demonstrating your COVID-19 status
    Passengers in transit are subject to the submission of the above COVID-19 test and vaccination card. You should not use the testing service to get a test in order to facilitate your travel to another country. You should arrange to take a private test. Only children under 2 years old are exempt from the RT-PCR test or the COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement. Airline crew members are not subject to the above requirements as long as they are not staying overnight in the country.
    If, on arrival, a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, they will be required to take a RT-PCR test. If the result is positive, passengers will be instructed to self isolate for 14 days.
    All passengers arriving from India, even if they have only transited the countries, must present a negative RT-PCR test, taken up to 72 hours prior to boarding their flight, regardless of whether they are fully vaccinated or not. These passengers must self isolate for 10 days either in a private home or in a hotel, at their own expense. The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) is responsible for following up this requirement.
    In response to the new variant ‘Omicron’, from 1 December 2021, all passengers arriving from or transiting through South Africa, Botswana, Egypt, Mozambique, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Eswantini (Swaziland) and Namibia will not be allowed to enter the country.
    *Demonstrating your COVID-19 status: Ecuador will accept proof of COVID-19 recovery and vaccination record and proof of COVID-19 vaccination issued in the Crown Dependencies. Your appointment card from vaccination centres is not designed to be used as proof of vaccination and should not be used to demonstrate your vaccine status.
    *Quarantine requirements: Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days, from the date of the test. Self-isolation for non-residents can be carried out in any hotel, at their own expense. The full address of where the passenger will self-isolate should be included in the Health Status Declaration Form.
    Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    The Ministry of Public Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only).
    If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Public Health website. The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    *Travel to and from the Galapagos: Tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August 2020. The local authorities created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands.
    All travellers over 16 years old wishing to enter the Islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours prior to the date of the flight to the Galapagos Islands and a full COVID-19 vaccination certificate (i.e. both doses for those vaccinations which consist of two doses, or its equivalent), received at least 14 days prior the flight date. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review. See ‘Demonstrating your COVID-19 status’.
    Children between 2 and 16 years must present a negative RT-PCR test for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours prior embarking the flight. Any passengers presenting COVID-19 related symptoms will be denied entry to the Islands, and a Ministry of Public Health team will activate the relevant protocols.
    National and foreign tourists must also present evidence of a return flight, as well as the Galapagos Transit Control Card, to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. There is no longer a requirement for a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’). Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists.

    Internal Restrictions:

    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website . The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) also provides an information page. However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account.
    *Public spaces and services: Power to impose traffic restrictions and controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area. The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • in-person school classes were suspended in 2020. However, voluntary blended classes (mix of in-person and online) have been progressively allowed to take place, since 7 June 2021, if the school’s COVID action plan has been properly approved by the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE)
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app
    • authorized labs to undertake COVID-19 tests
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • the land border with Peru remains closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and the Huaquillas northern and southern border checkpoints
    • the land border with Colombia (Rumichaca) opened on 17 December 2021 to all travellers, but only through the ‘Rumichaca’ international check-point, from 0800 to 1700. You are required to present your COVID-19 complete dose vaccination card and a negative PCR test result
    • most ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed. As of October 2021, international cruise ship operations are permitted in Esmeraldas, Guayaquil, Manta and Puerto Baquerizo ports
    On 21 December, Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) announced that all local municipalities are requested to implement the following restrictions from 23 December 2021 until 23 January 2022:
    • maximum public attendance capacity of 75% in fairs, shopping centres, markets, supermarkets (in addition only one person per family may enter at a time), museums and financial and government establishments;
    • maximum public attendance capacity of 50% in restaurants, food courts, places of worship, entrepreneurship fairs, cinemas and theatres, gyms, thermal baths and spas; the selling and consumption of food and drinks at cinemas and theatres is not permitted;
    • closure of bars, clubs and convention centres, and prohibition of public and private events, including: receptions, concerts, processions, religious events in public spaces, New Year’s Eve celebrations, traditional festive gatherings and local neighbourhood events;
    • strict compliance with biosecurity protocols, use of face mask, frequent hand-washing, appropriate ventilation and social distancing;
    • local governments which have beaches/bathing areas to establish a maximum public attendance capacity of 75% and opening hours of 06:00 until 18:00;
    • the National Sanitary Authority will issue a regulation requiring all people over 12 to present their COVID-19 vaccination card (showing 2 complete doses) to enter any establishment that attends the public (for example, but not limited to, banks, shops, restaurants etc)offices . This will not apply to public sector institutions, including those relating to . The national police will be in charge of enforcement together with any relevant local authority;
    • Increasing of transport frequencies to 100%
    Please note that the power to impose these restrictions rests with local authorities, and the COE may only make recommendations. As a result you may see some discrepancies between local areas (see advice for Quito below).
    The power to impose further restrictions, including curfew hours, transit and other controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring. Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol sale and consumption.
    We strongly recommend that you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time: Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only).
    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    *Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times.
    All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities. The “Hoy No Circula” circulation private vehicle restriction system is no longer in place; the former “Pico y Placa” system was reinstated from 4 November 2021.
    Vehicles with number plates ending in the following numbers will have restrictions on the given days below, and will not be allowed to circulate from 06:00 to 09.30 and from 16:00 to 21:00 on the assigned days: Monday: 0, 1; Tuesday: 2, 3; Wednesday 4, 5; Thursday 6, 7 and Friday 8, 9.
    There are no vehicle restrictions to circulate at the weekends and on official public holidays. Special safe passage documents (“salvoconductos”) are no longer valid and cannot be used during “Pico y Placa”. However, “Pico y Placa” does not apply to over 65 year-olds who drive their own vehicle. Other restrictions in Quito announced on 22 December are:
    • sporting activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are suspended temporarily.
    • you will be fined 50% of the minimum monthly salary if you are found drinking in public spaces (including inside vehicles).
    • bars, clubs, entertainment centres can operate with a maximum capacity of 30%
    • Maximum capacity for transport set at 75%
    • maximum capacity of 65% in shopping centres, markets, supermarkets and gyms
    • financial institutions will have a 60% maximum capacity
    • for corporate and academic events, conventions and receptions in closed spaces the maximum capacity will be 70% and for open spaces 80%
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers.
    Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    22.12.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news: Government bans travelers from eight African countries, opening of border with Colombia delayed (ElUniversal, 29.11.2021)

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed.
    As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you to contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.
    As of October 2021, international cruise ship operations are authorised at the following ports: Esmeraldas, Manta, Guayaquil and Puerto Bolivar. However, there are strict guidelines and measures to comply with to obtain the relevant permissions from the competent Ecuadorean authorities.
    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival in Ecuador, all passengers will be required to complete a Health Declaration Form with their itinerary and local contact details. You must also present a negative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) qualitative test for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours prior to your arrival in the country. This is a mandatory requirement, which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board.
    Travellers who have had their full COVID-19 vaccination (i.e. both doses for those vaccinations which consist of two doses), received at least 14 days prior the flight date, can present their vaccination card, or its equivalent, instead of the above negative RT-PCR. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review.
    Passengers in transit are not subject to the submission of the above COVID-19 test or vaccination card. You should arrange to take a private test.
    Only airline crew members, children under 2 years old and passengers on transit to other countries are exempt from the RT-PCR test or the COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement.
    If, on arrival, a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, they will be evaluated by an MSP health care worker, prior to their entry to the immigration area, and, if necessary, an Antigen rapid test will be arranged. If the result us positive, COVID-19 protocols will be activated and the passenger will be instructed to self isolate.
    All passengers arriving from India, even if they have only transited those countries, must present a negative RT-PCR test, taken up to 72 hours prior to boarding their flight, regardless of whether they are fully vaccinated or not. These passengers must self isolate for 10 days either in a private home or in a hotel, at their own expense. The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) is responsible for following up this requirement.
    *Demonstrating your COVID-19 status: Ecuador will accept theproof of COVID-19 recovery and vaccination record. Your appointment card from vaccination centres is not designed to be used as proof of vaccination and should not be used to demonstrate your vaccine status.
    *Quarantine requirements: Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days, from the date of the test. Self-isolation for non-residents can be carried out in any hotel, at their own expense. The full address of where the passenger will self-isolate should be included in the Health Status Declaration Form.
    Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    The Ministry of Public Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only).
    If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the
    Ministry of Public Health website
    The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    *Travel to and from the Galapagos: Tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August 2020. The local authorities created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands.
    All travellers over 2 years old wishing to enter the Islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours prior to the date of the flight to the Galapagos Islands, or a full COVID-19 vaccination certificate (i.e. both doses for those vaccinations which consist of two doses, or its equivalent), received at least 14 days prior the flight date. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review.
    Any passengers presenting COVID-19 related symptoms will be denied entry to the Islands, and a Ministry of Public Health team will activate the relevant protocols.
    National and foreign tourists must also present evidence of a return flight, as well as the Galapagos Transit Control Card, to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. There is no longer a requirement for a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’). Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists.
    *Visa extensions: Foreign visitors whose visa expired between 19 March 2020 and 21 January 2021 had until 19 February 2021 to either leave the country, without paying a fine, or apply for a temporary visa, by lodging a formal application. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MFA) implemented an online appointment system (“sistema agendamiento citas”) and immigration control officials have access to the MFA’s appointment platform to check applicants’ status.
    The MFA is encouraging customers not to approach their offices nationwide without a confirmed appointment (including for residence visa renewals and other services). Follow the MFA’s social media account for more information: Cancilleria Ecuador. For general guidance contact: consejeria@cancilleria.gob.ec / citasvisas@cancilleriga.gob.ec / citasvisas@cancilleriga.gob.ec. Get the relevant emails for other MFA’s Coordinaciones Zonales
    here.
    The maximum extension period to remain in Ecuador without a formal visa is 180 days. For any general enquiries contact:
    servicios.migratorios@ministeriodegobierno.gob.ec. To apply for a visa extension (known as “prórroga”) online see here

    Internal Restrictions:

    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) also provides an information page. However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account
    *Public spaces and services: Power to impose traffic restrictions and controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • in-person school classes were suspended in 2020. However, voluntary blended classes (mix of in-person and online) have been progressively allowed to take place, since 7 June 2021, if the school’s COVID action plan has been properly approved by the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE)
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app
    • authorised labs to undertake COVID-19 tests
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • the land border with Peru remains closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and the Huaquillas northern and southern border checkpoints
    • the land border with Colombia (Rumichaca) was due to open on the 1 December, however this has now been postponed due to the new variant Omicron, and is now scheduled to open on the will be opened on 15 December 2021 to all travellers, but only through the ‘Rumichaca’ international check-point, from 0800 to 1700
    • most ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed. As of October 2021, international cruise ship operations are permitted in Esmeraldas, Guayaquil, Manta and Puerto Baquerizo ports
    There are no longer lockdown and weekend curfew measures in place.
    On 29 June, Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) announced a progressive and safe return plan for face-to-face working activities. Likewise, as of 1 July, public sector employees are authorised to return to in-person office work 14 days after the final dose of their COVID-19 vaccination. On 18 October, COE announced that the previous prohibition of all mass social events will be lifted, to start as of 30 October with a maximum capacity of 60%. On 29 November, the President and COE announced that all public service offices will request customers to present a COVID-19 complete dose vaccination cards on entry. COE encouraged local municipalities to decrease the capacity of authorised outdoors mass social events to 50% and through the presentation of a COVID-19 complete dose vaccination certificate or a negative PCR test (taken up to 72 hours).
    On 25 October and 29 November, the COE encouraged local governments to implement additional restrictions nationwide as follows:
    • maximum public attendance capacity of 50% in commercial establishments and at outdoor events and through the presentation of vaccination card or a negative RT-PCR test
    • increased transport frequencies to avoid crowds
    • public transport, inter-provincial,school buses and tour transport can operate at 100% capacity as long as they provide natural ventilation and the mandatory use of face masks
    • 70% capacity for in-person office work
    • airports’ capacity increases in public areas to 75% and at arrival and pre-embarking gates to 100%
    • local governments to control and regulate the consumption of alcohol in public spaces
    • limited capacity on beaches and opening hours
    The power to impose further restrictions, including curfew hours, transit and other controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring.
    Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol sale and consumption.
    We strongly recommend that you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only).
    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements. .
    *Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times.
    All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities.
    The “Hoy No Circula” circulation private vehicle restriction system is no longer in place; the former “Pico y Placa” system was reinstated from 4 November 2021. .
    Vehicles with number plates ending in the following numbers will have restrictions on the given days below, and will be allowed to circulate between 10am and 3pm on those days: Monday: 0, 1; Tuesday: 2, 3; Wednesday 4, 5; Thursday 6, 7 and Friday 8, 9.
    There are no vehicle restrictions to circulate at the weekends and on official public holidays.
    Special safe passage documents (“salvoconductos”) are no longer valid and cannot be used during “Pico y Placa”. However, “Pico y Placa” does not apply to over 65 year-olds who drive their own vehicle.
    Sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are suspended temporarily.
    You will be fined 50% of a minimum salary if you are found drinking in public spaces (including inside vehicles).
    Public transport, bus terminals and tourist transport can operate at a maximum of 50% capacity. As of 26 July, shopping centres, banks, cinemas, theatres, restaurants, gyms (complying with minimum distancing requirements) and entertainment centres can operate at a maximum capacity of 50%. Outdoor academic events can be held at 70% capacity.
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers.
    Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).
    *If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment there.

    Read more
    01.12.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news:

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed.
    As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you to contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.
    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival in Ecuador, all passengers will be required to complete a
    Health Declaration Form with their itinerary and local contact details. You must also present a negative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) qualitative test for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours prior to your arrival in the country. This is a mandatory requirement, which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board.
    Travellers who have had their full COVID-19 vaccination (i.e. both doses for those vaccinations which consist of two doses), received at least 14 days prior the flight date, can present their vaccination card, or its equivalent, instead of the above negative RT-PCR. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review.
    Passengers in transit are not subject to the submission of the above COVID-19 test or vaccination card.
    You should arrange to take a private test.
    Only airline crew members, children under 2 years old and passengers on transit to other countries are exempt from the RT-PCR test or the COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement.
    If, on arrival, a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, they will be evaluated by an MSP health care worker, prior to their entry to the immigration area, and, if necessary, an Antigen rapid test will be arranged. If the result us positive, COVID-19 protocols will be activated and the passenger will be instructed to self isolate.
    From 11:59 pm on 15 July, all passengers arriving from Brazil or India, even if they have only transited those countries, must present a negative RT-PCR test, taken up to 72 hours prior to boarding their flight, regardless of whether they are fully vaccinated or not. These passengers must self isolate for 10 days either in a private home or in a hotel, at their own expense. The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) is responsible for following up this requirement.
    *Demonstrating your COVID-19 vaccination status: Your appointment card from vaccination centres is not designed to be used as proof of vaccination and should not be used to demonstrate your vaccine status.
    *Quarantine requirements: Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days, from the date of the test. Self-isolation for non-residents can be carried out in any hotel, at their own expense. The full address of where the passenger will self-isolate should be included in the Health Status Declaration Form.
    Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    The Ministry of Public Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only).
    If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Public Health website The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    *Travel to and from the Galapagos: Tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August 2020. The local authorities created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands.
    From 11:59pm on 31 August 2021, foreigners over 16 years old wishing to enter the Islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours prior to the date of the flight to the Galapagos Islands, plus their COVID-19 vaccination card, or its equivalent, with the final dose administered at least 14 days prior to travel.
    Foreign travellers, from 2 to 16 years old must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours prior to the date of travel. Any passengers presenting COVID-19 related symptoms will be denied entry to the Islands, and a Ministry of Public Health team will activate the relevant protocols.
    National and foreign tourists must also present evidence of a return flight, as well as the Galapagos Transit Control Card, to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. There is no longer a requirement for a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’). Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists.
    *Visa extensions: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MFA) authorised a further 30 day visa extension for those people whose visa expired between 19 March 2020 and 21 January 2021.This is set out in Ministerial Decree 127 of 30 December 2020, which replaced decree 035. From 21 January 2021 foreign visitors had until 19 February 2021 to either leave the country, without paying a fine, or apply for a temporary visa, by lodging a formal application. The MFA implemented an online appointment system (“sistema agendamiento citas”) and immigration control officials have access to the MFA’s appointment platform to check applicants’ status.
    The MFA is encouraging customers not to approach their offices nationwide without a confirmed appointment (including for residence visa renewals and other services). Follow the MFA’s social media account for more information:
    Cancilleria Ecuador. For general guidance contact: consejeria@cancilleria.gob.ec / citasvisas@cancilleriga.gob.ec / citasvisas@cancilleriga.gob.ec. Get the relevant emails for other MFA’s Coordinaciones Zonales here.
    The maximum extension period to remain in Ecuador without a formal visa is 180 days. For any general enquiries contact: servicios.migratorios@ministeriodegobierno.gob.ec. To apply for a visa extension (known as “prórroga”) online see here

    Internal Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the
    Coronavirus Ecuador website.
    The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) also provides an
    information page
    . However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account
    *Public spaces and services: Power to impose traffic restrictions and controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces.
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • in-person school classes have been suspended since 2020. Voluntary blended classes (mix of in-person and online) will be progressively allowed to take place, as of 7 June 2021, if the school’s COVID action plan has been properly approved by the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE)
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • public gatherings and mass events are prohibited
    • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app.
    authorised labs to undertake COVID-19 tests
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders.
    • ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed
    There are no longer lockdown and weekend curfew measures in place.
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) announced that from Friday 21 May, all mass social events and public gatherings continue to be suspended and that inter-provincial buses can operate at 75% capacity. On 29 June, the COE approved a progressive and safe return plan for face-to-face working activities. Likewise, as of 1 July, public sector employees are authorised to return to in-person office work 14 days after the final dose of their COVID-19 vaccination. On 14 July, the COE encouraged municipality governments to regulate public transport at 50% capacity.
    On 29 July, the President of Ecuador announced the renewal of the state of emergency for El Oro province and Guayaquil city, until 11:59pm on 27 August, due to the increase of the Delta and Delta Plus variants. Alongside this, the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) recommended that local governments implement additional restrictions nationwide:
    • 50% capacity for in-person office work
    • 50% capacity for interstate transport from El Oro province and only fully vaccinated passengers
    • prioritisation of remote working in El Oro province
    • increased transport frequencies to avoid crowds
    • local governments to control and regulate the consumption of alcohol in public spaces
    • limited capacity on beaches and opening hours
    • maximum public attention capacity of 50% in commercial establishments and 75% capacity at outdoor events will remain
    The power to impose further restrictions, including curfew hours, transit and other controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    Restrictions do not apply for key sectors such as public and private healthcare, security, basic public services, emergency response, produce sectors and those who need to transport goods and food. People who are transporting passengers to/from the airport (showing flight tickets) and verified medical emergencies and appointments are also exempt.
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring.
    Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol sale and consumption.
    We strongly recommend that you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca:
    @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only).
    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    *Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times.
    All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities.
    The “Hoy No Circula” circulation private vehicle restriction system has been reactivated from 21 May owards.
    Vehicles with number plates ending in the following numbers cannot circulate on the following days:

    Monday: 0, 1, 2, 3
    Tuesday: 2, 3, 4, 5
    Wednesday: 4, 5, 6, 7
    Thursday: 6, 7, 8, 9
    Friday: 8, 9, 0, 1
    As of 1 July 2021, from Monday to Friday, the “Hoy No Circula” vehicle restriction is in effect between 7am to 7pm. This is only applicable for the urban areas of Quito Metropolitan District.
    All vehicle number plates are allowed to circulate all day at the weekends and on official public holidays.
    Vehicle circulation restrictions do not apply for verified medical emergencies and appointments; for transfers to the airport (showing flight tickets) and for key sectors with safe passage documents.
    In addition, people who work for certain vital sectors, such as health, food provision, financial and emergencies, will be allowed to circulate on the days which the vehicle’s number plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. You must present valid credentials or proof of emergency if stopped by a local authority. The issuance of
    special safe passage documents (“salvoconductos”) has been reinstated for private vehicles that can justify their need to circulate inside the “Hoy No Circula” restrictions.
    All public and social gatherings are prohibited. Pubs and nightclubs are closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily.You will be fined 50% of a minimum salary if you are found drinking in public spaces (including inside vehicles).
    Public transport, bus terminals and tourist transport can operate at a maximum of 50% capacity. As of 26 July, shopping centres, banks, cinemas, theatres, restaurants, gyms (complying with minimum distancing requirements) and entertainment centres can operate at a maximum capacity of 50%. Outdoor academic events can be held at 70% capacity.
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers.
    Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related
    FAQ (in Spanish).
    *If you test positive for COVID-19 in Ecuador: If you receive a positive COVID-19 test in country, you should seek medical assistance by contacting either a public or private doctor to advise you on treatment and mandatory self-isolation measures, in private accommodation or hotel of your choice. There are no quarantine facilities in Ecuador.
    If your condition deteriorates, you can call 911 or directly approach a private or public hospital or medical centre to seek assistance.
    It is your responsibility to comply with the required 10 days of self-isolation if you test positive.
    Minors (under 18) have to comply with the same self-isolation requirements. They will be denied access to hotels without an adult. Your emotional and mental wellbeing is important.

    Read more
    31.08.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news:

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed.
    As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you to contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.
    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, all passengers will be required to sign a health declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. You must also present a negative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) qualitative test for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours prior to your arrival in the country. This is a mandatory requirement, which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board.
    Passengers in transit are not subject to the submission of the above COVID-19 test or vaccination card.
    As of 22 March 2021, travellers who have had their full COVID-19 vaccination (i.e. both doses for those vaccinations which consist of two doses), received at least 14 days prior the flight date, can present their vaccination card, or its equivalent, instead of the above negative RT-PCR. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review.You should arrange to take a private test.
    Only airline crew members, children under 2 years old and passengers on transit to other countries are exempt from the RT-PCR test or the COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement.
    If, on arrival, a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, they will be evaluated by an MSP health care worker, prior to their entry to the immigration area, and, if necessary, an Antigen rapid test will be arranged. If the result us positive, COVID-19 protocols will be activated and the passenger will be instructed to self isolate.
    From 11:59 pm on 15 July, all passengers arriving from Brazil or India, even if they have only transited those countries, must present a negative RT-PCR test, taken up to 72 hours prior to boarding their flight, regardless of whether they are fully vaccinated or not. These passengers must self isolate for 10 days either in a private home or in a hotel, at their own expense. The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) is responsible for following up this requirement.
    *Demonstrating your COVID-19 vaccination status: Your appointment card from vaccination centres is not designed to be used as proof of vaccination and should not be used to demonstrate your vaccine status.
    *Quarantine requirements: Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days, from the date of the test. Self-isolation for non-residents can be carried out in any hotel, at their own expense. The full address of where the passenger will self-isolate should be included in the Health Status Declaration Form.
    Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    The Ministry of Public Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols
    that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only).
    If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Public Health website
    The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    *Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands.
    From 11:59pm on 30 June, foreigners wishing to enter the islands must either present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 72 hours prior to the date of arrival to the Galapagos islands, or present a COVID-19 vaccination card, or its equivalent, with the final dose administered at least 14 days prior to travel.
    Visitors who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and who continue to test positive in an RT-PCR test after a month, may enter the islands if they are asymptomatic, and if they present a medical certificate issued in the country of origin which states their health condition.
    Any passengers presenting COVID-19 related symptoms will be denied entry to the islands, and a Ministry of Health team will activate the relevant protocols.
    National and foreign tourists must also present evidence of a return flight, as well as the Galapagos Transit Control Card, to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. There is no longer a requirement for a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’). Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists.
    *Visa extensions: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MFA) authorised a further 30 day visa extension for those people whose visa expired between 19 March 2020 and 21 January 2021.This is set out in Ministerial Decree 127 of 30 December 2020, which replaced decree 035. From 21 January 2021 foreign visitors had until 19 February 2021 to either leave the country, without paying a fine, or apply for a temporary visa, by lodging a formal application. The MFA implemented an online appointment system (“sistema agendamiento citas”) and immigration control officials have access to the MFA’s appointment platform to check applicants’ status.
    The MFA is encouraging customers not to approach their offices nationwide without a confirmed appointment (including for residence visa renewals and other services). Follow the MFA’s social media account for more information: Cancilleria Ecuador. For general guidance contact: consejeria@cancilleria.gob.ec citasvisas@cancilleriga.gob.ec
    / citasvisas@cancilleriga.gob.ec. Get the relevant emails for other MFA’s Coordinaciones Zonales
    here.
    The maximum extension period to remain in Ecuador without a formal visa is 180 days. For any general enquiries contact: servicios.migratorios@ministeriodegobierno.gob.ec. To apply for a visa extension (known as “prórroga”) online see
    here

    Internal Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the
    Coronavirus Ecuador website.
    The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) also provides an
    information page
    . However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account
    *Public spaces and services: Power to impose traffic restrictions and controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces.
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • in-person school classes have been suspended since 2020. Voluntary blended classes (mix of in-person and online) will be progressively allowed to take place, as of 7 June 2021, if the school’s COVID action plan has been properly approved by the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE)
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • public gatherings and mass events are prohibited
    • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app.
    authorised labs to undertake COVID-19 tests
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders.
    • ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed
    There are no longer lockdown and weekend curfew measures in place.
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) announced that from Friday 21 May, all mass social events and public gatherings continue to be suspended and that inter-provincial buses can operate at 75% capacity. On 29 June, the COE approved a progressive and safe return plan for face-to-face working activities. Likewise, as of 1 July, public sector employees are authorised to return to in-person office work 14 days after the final dose of their COVID-19 vaccination. On 14 July, the COE encouraged municipality governments to regulate public transport at 50% capacity.
    On 29 July, the President of Ecuador announced the renewal of the state of emergency for El Oro province and Guayaquil city, until 11:59pm on 27 August, due to the increase of the Delta and Delta Plus variants. Alongside this, the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) recommended that local governments implement additional restrictions nationwide:
    • 50% capacity for in-person office work
    • 50% capacity for interstate transport from El Oro province and only fully vaccinated passengers
    • prioritisation of remote working in El Oro province
    • increased transport frequencies to avoid crowds
    • local governments to control and regulate the consumption of alcohol in public spaces
    • limited capacity on beaches and opening hours
    • maximum public attention capacity of 50% in commercial establishments and 75% capacity at outdoor events will remain
    The power to impose further restrictions, including curfew hours, transit and other controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    Restrictions do not apply for key sectors such as public and private healthcare, security, basic public services, emergency response, produce sectors and those who need to transport goods and food. People who are transporting passengers to/from the airport (showing flight tickets) and verified medical emergencies and appointments are also exempt.
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring.
    Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol sale and consumption.
    We strongly recommend that you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca:
    @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only).
    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    *Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times.
    All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities.
    The “Hoy No Circula” circulation private vehicle restriction system has been reactivated from 21 May owards.
    Vehicles with number plates ending in the following numbers cannot circulate on the following days:

    Monday: 0, 1, 2, 3
    Tuesday: 2, 3, 4, 5
    Wednesday: 4, 5, 6, 7
    Thursday: 6, 7, 8, 9
    Friday: 8, 9, 0, 1
    As of 1 July 2021, from Monday to Friday, the “Hoy No Circula” vehicle restriction is in effect between 7am to 7pm. This is only applicable for the urban areas of Quito Metropolitan District.
    All vehicle number plates are allowed to circulate all day at the weekends and on official public holidays.
    Vehicle circulation restrictions do not apply for verified medical emergencies and appointments; for transfers to the airport (showing flight tickets) and for key sectors with safe passage documents.
    In addition, people who work for certain vital sectors, such as health, food provision, financial and emergencies, will be allowed to circulate on the days which the vehicle’s number plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. You must present valid credentials or proof of emergency if stopped by a local authority. The issuance of
    special safe passage documents (“salvoconductos”) has been reinstated for private vehicles that can justify their need to circulate inside the “Hoy No Circula” restrictions.
    All public and social gatherings are prohibited. Pubs and nightclubs are closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily.You will be fined 50% of a minimum salary if you are found drinking in public spaces (including inside vehicles).
    Public transport, bus terminals and tourist transport can operate at a maximum of 50% capacity. As of 26 July, shopping centres, banks, cinemas, theatres, restaurants, gyms (complying with minimum distancing requirements) and entertainment centres can operate at a maximum capacity of 50%. Outdoor academic events can be held at 70% capacity.
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers.
    Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related
    FAQ (in Spanish).
    *If you test positive for COVID-19 in Ecuador: If you receive a positive COVID-19 test in country, you should seek medical assistance by contacting either a public or private doctor to advise you on treatment and mandatory self-isolation measures, in private accommodation or hotel of your choice. There are no quarantine facilities in Ecuador.
    If your condition deteriorates, you can call 911 or directly approach a private or public hospital or medical centre to seek assistance.
    It is your responsibility to comply with the required 10 days of self-isolation if you test positive.
    Minors (under 18) have to comply with the same self-isolation requirements. They will be denied access to hotels without an adult. Your emotional and mental wellbeing is important.
    *Be prepared for your plans to change: No travel is risk-free during COVID. Countries may further restrict travel or bring in new rules at short notice, for example due to a new COVID-19 variant. Check with your travel company or airline for any transport changes which may delay your journey home.
    If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment there.
    Plan ahead and make sure you: can access money; understand what your insurance will cover; can make arrangements to extend your stay and be away for longer than planned

    Read more
    06.08.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news:

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed.
    As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you to contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.
    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, all passengers will be required to sign a health declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. You must also present a negative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) qualitative test for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours prior to your arrival in the country. This is a mandatory requirement, which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board.
    Passengers in transit are not subject to the submission of the above COVID-19 test or vaccination card.
    As of 22 March 2021, travellers who have had their full COVID-19 vaccination (i.e. both doses for those vaccinations which consist of two doses), received at least 14 days prior the flight date, can present their vaccination card, or its equivalent, instead of the above negative RT-PCR. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review.You should arrange to take a private test.
    Only airline crew members, children under 2 years old and passengers on transit to other countries are exempt from the RT-PCR test or the COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement.
    If, on arrival, a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, they will be evaluated by an MSP health care worker, prior to their entry to the immigration area, and, if necessary, an Antigen rapid test will be arranged. If the result us positive, COVID-19 protocols will be activated and the passenger will be instructed to self isolate.
    From 11:59 pm on 15 July, all passengers arriving from Brazil or India, even if they have only transited those countries, must present a negative RT-PCR test, taken up to 72 hours prior to boarding their flight, regardless of whether they are fully vaccinated or not. These passengers must self isolate for 10 days either in a private home or in a hotel, at their own expense. The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) is responsible for following up this requirement.
    *Demonstrating your COVID-19 vaccination status: Your appointment card from vaccination centres is not designed to be used as proof of vaccination and should not be used to demonstrate your vaccine status.
    *Quarantine requirements: Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days, from the date of the test. Self-isolation for non-residents can be carried out in any hotel, at their own expense. The full address of where the passenger will self-isolate should be included in the Health Status Declaration Form.
    Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    The Ministry of Public Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols
    that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only).
    If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Public Health website
    The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    *Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands.
    From 11:59pm on 30 June, foreigners wishing to enter the islands must either present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 72 hours prior to the date of arrival to the Galapagos islands, or present a COVID-19 vaccination card, or its equivalent, with the final dose administered at least 14 days prior to travel.
    Visitors who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and who continue to test positive in an RT-PCR test after a month, may enter the islands if they are asymptomatic, and if they present a medical certificate issued in the country of origin which states their health condition.
    Any passengers presenting COVID-19 related symptoms will be denied entry to the islands, and a Ministry of Health team will activate the relevant protocols.
    National and foreign tourists must also present evidence of a return flight, as well as the Galapagos Transit Control Card, to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. There is no longer a requirement for a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’). Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists.
    *Visa extensions: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MFA) authorised a further 30 day visa extension for those people whose visa expired between 19 March 2020 and 21 January 2021.This is set out in Ministerial Decree 127 of 30 December 2020, which replaced decree 035. From 21 January 2021 foreign visitors had until 19 February 2021 to either leave the country, without paying a fine, or apply for a temporary visa, by lodging a formal application. The MFA implemented an online appointment system (“sistema agendamiento citas”) and immigration control officials have access to the MFA’s appointment platform to check applicants’ status.
    The MFA is encouraging customers not to approach their offices nationwide without a confirmed appointment (including for residence visa renewals and other services). Follow the MFA’s social media account for more information: Cancilleria Ecuador. For general guidance contact: consejeria@cancilleria.gob.ec citasvisas@cancilleriga.gob.ec
    / citasvisas@cancilleriga.gob.ec. Get the relevant emails for other MFA’s Coordinaciones Zonales
    here.
    The maximum extension period to remain in Ecuador without a formal visa is 180 days. For any general enquiries contact: servicios.migratorios@ministeriodegobierno.gob.ec. To apply for a visa extension (known as “prórroga”) online see
    here

    Internal Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) also provides an information page. However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account.
    *Public spaces and services: Power to impose traffic restrictions and controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces.
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • in-person school classes have been suspended since 2020. Voluntary blended classes (mix of in-person and online) will be progressively allowed to take place, as of 7 June 2021, if the school’s COVID action plan has been properly approved by the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE)
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • public gatherings and mass events are prohibited
    • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app.
    authorised labs to undertake COVID-19 tests
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders.
    • ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed
    There are no longer lockdown and weekend curfew measures in place.
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) announced that from Friday 21 May, all mass social events and public gatherings continue to be suspended and that inter-provincial buses can operate at 75% capacity. On 29 June, the COE approved a progressive and safe return plan for face-to-face working activities. Likewise, as of 1 July, public sector employees are authorised to return to in-person office work 14 days after the final dose of their COVID-19 vaccination. On 14 July, the COE encouraged municipality governments to regulate public transport at 50% capacity.
    The power to impose further restrictions, including curfew hours, transit and other controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    Restrictions do not apply for key sectors such as public and private healthcare, security, basic public services, emergency response, produce sectors and those who need to transport goods and food. People who are transporting passengers to/from the airport (showing flight tickets) and verified medical emergencies and appointments are also exempt.
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring.
    Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol sale and consumption.
    We strongly recommend that you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos.
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only).
    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    *Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times.All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities.
    The “Hoy No Circula” circulation private vehicle restriction system has been reactivated from 21 May owards.
    Vehicles with number plates ending in the following numbers cannot circulate on the following days:
    Monday: 0, 1, 2, 3
    Tuesday: 2, 3, 4, 5
    Wednesday: 4, 5, 6, 7
    Thursday: 6, 7, 8, 9
    Friday: 8, 9, 0, 1
    As of 1 July 2021, from Monday to Friday, the “Hoy No Circula” vehicle restriction is in effect between 7am to 7pm. This is only applicable for the urban areas of Quito Metropolitan District.
    All vehicle number plates are allowed to circulate all day at the weekends and on official public holidays.
    Vehicle circulation restrictions do not apply for verified medical emergencies and appointments; for transfers to the airport (showing flight tickets) and for key sectors with safe passage documents.
    In addition, people who work for certain vital sectors, such as health, food provision, financial and emergencies, will be allowed to circulate on the days which the vehicle’s number plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. You must present valid credentials or proof of emergency if stopped by a local authority. The issuance of special safe passage documents (“salvoconductos”) has been reinstated for private vehicles that can justify their need to circulate inside the “Hoy No Circula” restrictions.
    All public and social gatherings are prohibited. Pubs and nightclubs are closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily.
    You will be fined 50% of a minimum salary if you are found drinking in public spaces (including inside vehicles).
    Public transport, bus terminals and tourist transport can operate at a maximum of 50% capacity. As of 26 July, shopping centres, banks, cinemas, theatres, restaurants, gyms (complying with minimum distancing requirements) and entertainment centres can operate at a maximum capacity of 50%. Outdoor academic events can be held at 70% capacity.
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers.
    Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).
    *Be prepared for your plans to change: No travel is risk-free during COVID. Countries may further restrict travel or bring in new rules at short notice, for example due to a new COVID-19 variant. Check with your travel company or airline for any transport changes which may delay your journey home.
    If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment there.

    Read more
    29.07.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news:

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed.
    As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you to contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.
    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, all passengers will be required to sign a health declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. You must also present a negative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) qualitative test for COVID-19, or a negative antigen rapid test, taken up to 72 hours prior to your arrival in the country. This is a mandatory requirement, which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board.
    Passengers in transit are not subject to the submission of the above COVID-19 test or vaccination card.
    As of 22 March 2021, travellers who have had their full COVID-19 vaccination (i.e. both doses for those vaccinations which consist of two doses), received at least 14 days prior the flight date, can present their vaccination card, or its equivalent, instead of the above negative RT-PCR or rapid test result. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review. You should arrange to take a private test.
    Passengers who had been diagnosed with COVID-19 through a positive RT-PCR test, if over a month has passed since the beginning of the symptoms, and who continue to show a positive test result, can be exempted from the above general requirement to enter the country (only if they no longer have symptoms, and if they present an official Medical Certificate which certifies their health condition, issued in their country of origin).
    Only airline crew members, children under 2 years old and passengers on transit to other countries are exempt from the RT-PCR or Antigen rapid test or the COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement.
    If, on arrival, a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, they will be evaluated by a health care worker, prior to their entry to the immigration area, and if necessary will be taken to the nearest health centre for a full evaluation.
    Passengers arriving from Brazil must present a negative RT-PCR test, or an antigen rapid test, taken up to 72 hours prior to their arrival in Ecuador and must self isolate for 10 days either in a private domicile or hotel, at their own expense. The isolation requirement will be waived if the passenger is fully vaccinated against COVID-19, with the latest dose administered at least 14 days prior to the flight date.
    *Demonstrating your COVID-19 vaccination status: Ecuador will accept your respective letter to demonstrate your COVID-19 vaccination status. Your appointment card from vaccination centres is not designed to be used as proof of vaccination and should not be used to demonstrate your vaccine status.
    *Quarantine requirements: Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days, from the date of the test. Self-isolation for non-residents can be carried out in any hotel, at their own expense. The full address of where the passenger will self-isolate should be included in the Health Status Declaration Form.
    Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only).
    If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Health website
    The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    *Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands.
    From 11:59pm on 30 June, foreigners wishing to enter the islands must either present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 72 hours prior to the date of arrival to the Galapagos islands, or present a COVID-19 vaccination card, or its equivalent, with the final dose administered at least 14 days prior to travel.
    Visitors who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and who continue to test positive in an RT-PCR test after a month, may enter the islands if they are asymptomatic, and if they present a medical certificate issued in the country of origin which states their health condition.
    Any passengers presenting COVID-19 related symptoms will be denied entry to the islands, and a Ministry of Health team will activate the relevant protocols.
    National and foreign tourists must also present evidence of a return flight, as well as the Galapagos Transit Control Card, to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. There is no longer a requirement for a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’). Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists.

    Internal Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website . The Ministry of Health also provides an information page
    . However, the most up to date information is accessible via their .
    *Public spaces and services: Power to impose traffic restrictions and controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces.
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • in-person school classes have been suspended since 2020. Voluntary blended classes (mix of in-person and online) will be progressively allowed to take place, as of 7 June 2021, if the school’s COVID action plan has been properly approved by the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE)
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • public gatherings and mass events are prohibited
    • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app.
    authorized labs to undertake COVID-19 tests
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders.
    • ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed
    There are no longer lockdown and weekend curfew measures in place.
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) announced that from Friday 21 May, all mass social events and public gatherings continue to be suspended and that inter-provincial buses can operate at 75% capacity. On 29 June, the COE approved a progressive and safe return plan for face-to-face working activities. Likewise, as of 1 July, public sector employees are authorised to return to in-person office work 14 days after the final dose of their COVID-19 vaccination.
    The power to impose further restrictions, including curfew hours, transit and other controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    Restrictions do not apply for key sectors such as public and private healthcare, security, basic public services, emergency response, produce sectors and those who need to transport goods and food. People who are transporting passengers to/from the airport (showing flight tickets) and verified medical emergencies and appointments are also exempt.
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring.
    Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol sale and consumption.
    We strongly recommend that you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only).
    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    *Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times.
    All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities.
    The “Hoy No Circula” circulation private vehicle restriction system has been reactivated from 21 May to 30 June 2021.
    Vehicles with number plates ending in the following numbers cannot circulate on the following days:
    Monday: 0, 1, 2, 3 ;Tuesday: 2, 3, 4, 5 ;Wednesday: 4, 5, 6, 7 ;Thursday: 6, 7, 8, 9 ;Friday: 8, 9, 0, 1
    As of 1 July 2021, from Monday to Friday, the “Hoy No Circula” vehicle restriction is in effect between 7am to 7pm. This is only applicable for the urban areas of Quito Metropolitan District.
    All vehicle number plates are allowed to circulate all day at the weekends and on official public holidays.
    Vehicle circulation restrictions do not apply for verified medical emergencies and appointments; for transfers to the airport (showing flight tickets) and for key sectors with safe passage documents.
    In addition, people who work for certain vital sectors, such as health, food provision, financial and emergencies, will be allowed to circulate on the days which the vehicle’s number plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. You must present valid credentials or proof of emergency if stopped by a local authority. The issuance of special safe passage documents (“salvoconductos”) has been reinstated for private vehicles that can justify their need to circulate inside the “Hoy No Circula” restrictions.
    All public and social gatherings are prohibited. Pubs and nightclubs are closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily.
    You will be fined 50% of a minimum salary if you are found drinking in public spaces (including inside vehicles).
    Restaurants, shopping centres, public transport, bus terminals and tourist transport can operate at a maximum of 50% capacity. Cinemas, theatres and gyms (complying with minimum distancing requirements) can operate at a maximum capacity of 30%.
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers.Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    06.07.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news:

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed.
    As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you to contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.
    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, all passengers will be required to sign a health declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. You must also present a negative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) qualitative test for COVID-19, or a negative antigen rapid test, taken up to 72 hours prior to your arrival in the country. This is a mandatory requirement, which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board.
    Passengers in transit are not subject to the submission of the above COVID-19 test or vaccination card.
    As of 22 March 2021, travellers who have had their full COVID-19 vaccination (i.e. both doses for those vaccinations which consist of two doses), received at least 14 days prior the flight date, can present their vaccination card, or its equivalent, instead of the above negative RT-PCR or rapid test result. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review. You should arrange to take a private test.
    Passengers who had been diagnosed with COVID-19 through a positive RT-PCR test, if over a month has passed since the beginning of the symptoms, and who continue to show a positive test result, can be exempted from the above general requirement to enter the country (only if they no longer have symptoms, and if they present an official Medical Certificate which certifies their health condition, issued in their country of origin).
    Only airline crew members, children under 2 years old and passengers on transit to other countries are exempt from the RT-PCR or Antigen rapid test or the COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement.
    If, on arrival, a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, they will be evaluated by a health care worker, prior to their entry to the immigration area, and if necessary will be taken to the nearest health centre for a full evaluation.
    Passengers arriving from Brazil must present a negative RT-PCR test, or an antigen rapid test, taken up to 72 hours prior to their arrival in Ecuador and must self isolate for 10 days either in a private domicile or hotel, at their own expense. The isolation requirement will be waived if the passenger is fully vaccinated against COVID-19, with the latest dose administered at least 14 days prior to the flight date.
    *Demonstrating your COVID-19 vaccination status: Ecuador will accept your respective letter to demonstrate your COVID-19 vaccination status. Your appointment card from vaccination centres is not designed to be used as proof of vaccination and should not be used to demonstrate your vaccine status.
    *Quarantine requirements: Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days, from the date of the test. Self-isolation for non-residents can be carried out in any hotel, at their own expense. The full address of where the passenger will self-isolate should be included in the Health Status Declaration Form.
    Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only).
    If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Health website
    The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    *Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands.
    From 11:59pm on 30 June, foreigners wishing to enter the islands must either present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 72 hours prior to the date of arrival to the Galapagos islands, or present a COVID-19 vaccination card, or its equivalent, with the final dose administered at least 14 days prior to travel.
    Visitors who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and who continue to test positive in an RT-PCR test after a month, may enter the islands if they are asymptomatic, and if they present a medical certificate issued in the country of origin which states their health condition.
    Any passengers presenting COVID-19 related symptoms will be denied entry to the islands, and a Ministry of Health team will activate the relevant protocols.
    National and foreign tourists must also present evidence of a return flight, as well as the Galapagos Transit Control Card, to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. There is no longer a requirement for a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’). Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists.

    Internal Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Health also provides an information page . However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account .
    *Public spaces and services: Power to impose traffic restrictions and controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces.
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • in-person school classes have been suspended since 2020. Blended classes (mix of in-person and online) will be allowed to take place if the school’s COVID action plan has been approved by the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) and according to existing restrictions.
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • public gatherings and mass events are prohibited
    • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app.
    • authorised labs to undertake COVID-19 tests
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders.
    • ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed
    The 28-day state of emergency for the provinces of Azuay, Pichincha, Imbabura, Carchi, Tungurahua, Cotopaxi, El Oro, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Loja, Manabi, Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas, Santa Elena, Los Rios, Sucumbios and Zamora Chinchipe, declared by the President on 21 April, has ended. There are no longer lockdown and weekend curfew measures in place in the above provinces.
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has announced that from Friday 21 May all social mass events and public gatherings continue to be suspended, mixed on-line/in person schooling is prohibited, inter provincial buses can operate at 75% capacity, and that both public and private sectors should continue prioritising virtual working.
    The power to impose further restrictions, including curfew hours, transit and other controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee.
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    Restrictions do not apply for key sectors such as public and private healthcare, security, basic public services, emergency response, produce sectors and those who need to transport goods and food. People who are transporting passengers to/from the airport (showing flight tickets) and verified medical emergencies and appointments are also exempt.
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring.
    Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol sale and consumption.
    We strongly recommend that you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only).
    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    *Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times.
    All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities.
    The “Hoy No Circula” circulation private vehicle restriction system has been reactivated from 21 May to 30 June 2021.
    Vehicles with number plates ending in the following numbers cannot circulate on the following days:
    Monday: 0, 1, 2, 3; Tuesday: 2, 3, 4, 5; Wednesday: 4, 5, 6, 7; Thursday: 6, 7, 8, 9; Friday: 8, 9, 0, 1
    From Monday to Thursday, the “Hoy No Circula” vehicle restriction is between 6am to 8pm and on Friday from 6am to 11pm. This is only applicable for the urban areas of Quito Metropolitan District.
    All vehicle number plates are allowed to circulate on Saturday, from 6am to 11pm, and on Sundays from 6am to 12pm, and whole day on official public holidays.
    Within Quito Municipality´s Resolution A022-2021 of 18 May, a complete restriction of transport circulation has been issued for Friday and Saturday for the whole Metropolitan District, from 11pm to 6am of the following day.
    Vehicle circulation restrictions do not apply for verified medical emergencies and appointments; for transfers to the airport (showing flight tickets) and for key sectors with safe passage documents.
    In addition, people who work for certain vital sectors, such as health, food provision, financial and emergencies, will be allowed to circulate on the days which the vehicle’s number plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. You must present valid credentials or proof of emergency if stopped by a local authority. The issuance of special safe passage documents (“salvoconductos”) has been reinstated for private vehicles that can justify their need to circulate inside the “Hoy No Circula” restrictions.
    All public and social gatherings are prohibited. Pubs and nightclubs are closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily.
    You will be fined 50% of a minimum salary if you are found drinking in public spaces (including inside vehicles).
    Restaurants, shopping centres, public transport, bus terminals and tourist transport can operate at a maximum of 50% capacity. Cinemas, theatres and gyms (complying with minimum distancing requirements) can operate at a maximum capacity of 30%.
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers.
    Visit theGuayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    01.07.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news: Government imposes nighttime curfew, other mobility restrictions (Reuters, 22.04.2021)

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed.
    As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you to contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.
    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, all passengers will be required to sign a health declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) qualitative test for COVID-19, or a negative antigen rapid test, taken up to 3 days prior to their arrival in the country. This is a mandatory requirement, which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board.
    As of 22 March 2021, travellers who have had their complete COVID-19 vaccination can present the official vaccination certificate instead of the above negative RT-PCR or rapid test result. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review. You should arrange to take a private test.
    Passengers who had been diagnosed with COVID-19 through a positive RT-PCR test, if over a month has passed since the beginning of the symptoms, and who continue to show a positive test result, can be exempted from the above general requirement to enter the country (only if they no longer have symptoms, and if they present an official Medical Certificate which certifies their health condition, issued in their country of origin).
    Only airline crew members, children under 2 years old and passengers on transit to other countries are exempt from the RT-PCR or Antigen rapid test or the COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement.
    If, on arrival, a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, they will be evaluated by a health care worker and if necessary will be taken to the nearest health centre for a full evaluation.
    *Quarantine requirements: Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days. Self-isolation for non-residents can be carried out in any hotel. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    As of 9 April 2021, passengers arriving from Brazil, including those who had been in transit only, will need to self-isolate for 10 days in any hotel accredited by the Ministry of Tourism, regardless of the results of any test for COVID-19. This new requirement was announced by Ecuador’s National Emergency Committee on 6 April.
    The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only). If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Health website
    The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands.
    Foreigners wishing to enter the islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 96 hours prior to the date of departure to the Galapagos islands.
    On arrival in Ecuador tourists may be requested to take another PCR test, at their own expense. Tourists must also present a return flight and a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’) issued by the Ministry of Tourism to be exempt from doing 14 days of self-isolation on the islands. The tour operators or hotels are responsible for arranging this safe passage document on behalf of tourists, given that visitors are required to have previous contracted travel and accommodation arrangements. The Galapagos Transit Control Card, will need to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. On arrival in Ecuador you will be required to fill in a Health Status Declaration, including a local address. Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists.
    If you have any queries regarding travel back to mainland Ecuador, you can contact the Galapagos authorities via email at galapagosresponder@gmail.com
    *Visa extensions: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MFA) authorised a further 30 day visa extension for those people whose visa expired between 19 March 2020 and 21 January 2021.This is set out in Ministerial Decree 127 of 30 December 2020, which replaced decree 035. From 21 January 2021 foreign visitors had until 19 February 2021 to either leave the country, without paying a fine, or apply for a temporary visa, by lodging a formal application. The MFA implemented an online appointment system (“sistema agendamiento citas”) and immigration control officials have access to the MFA’s appointment platform to check applicants’ status.
    The MFA is encouraging customers not to approach their offices nationwide without a confirmed appointment (including for residence visa renewals and other services). Follow the MFA’s social media account for more information: Cancilleria Ecuador. For general guidance contact: consejeria@cancilleria.gob.ec / citasvisas@cancilleriga.gob.ec / citasvisas@cancilleriga.gob.ec. Get the relevant emails for other MFA’s Coordinaciones Zonales here.
    The maximum extension period to remain in Ecuador without a formal visa is 180 days. For any general enquiries contact: servicios.migratorios@ministeriodegobierno.gob.ec. To apply for a visa extension (known as “prórroga”) online see here

    Internal Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Health also provides an information page . However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account .
    *Public spaces and services: Power to impose traffic restrictions and controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces.
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • in-person school classes have been suspended since 2020. Blended classes (mix of in-person and online) will be allowed to take place if the school’s COVID action plan has been approved by the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) and according to existing restrictions.
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • public gatherings and mass events are prohibited
    • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app.
    • authorised labs to undertake COVID-19 tests
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders.
    • ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed
    The 28-day state of emergency for the provinces of Azuay, Pichincha, Imbabura, Carchi, Tungurahua, Cotopaxi, El Oro, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Loja, Manabi, Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas, Santa Elena, Los Rios, Sucumbios and Zamora Chinchipe, declared by the President on 21 April, has ended. There are no longer lockdown and weekend curfew measures in place in the above provinces.
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has announced that from Friday 21 May all social mass events and public gatherings continue to be suspended, mixed on-line/in person schooling is prohibited, inter provincial buses can operate at 75% capacity, and that both public and private sectors should continue prioritising virtual working.
    The power to impose further restrictions, including curfew hours, transit and other controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee.
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    Restrictions do not apply for key sectors such as public and private healthcare, security, basic public services, emergency response, produce sectors and those who need to transport goods and food. People who are transporting passengers to/from the airport (showing flight tickets) and verified medical emergencies and appointments are also exempt.
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring.
    Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol sale and consumption.
    We strongly recommend that you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only).
    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    *Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times.
    All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities.
    The “Hoy No Circula” circulation private vehicle restriction system has been reactivated from 21 May to 30 June 2021.
    Vehicles with number plates ending in the following numbers cannot circulate on the following days:
    Monday: 0, 1, 2, 3; Tuesday: 2, 3, 4, 5; Wednesday: 4, 5, 6, 7; Thursday: 6, 7, 8, 9; Friday: 8, 9, 0, 1
    From Monday to Thursday, the “Hoy No Circula” vehicle restriction is between 6am to 8pm and on Friday from 6am to 11pm. This is only applicable for the urban areas of Quito Metropolitan District.
    All vehicle number plates are allowed to circulate on Saturday, from 6am to 11pm, and on Sundays from 6am to 12pm, and whole day on official public holidays.
    Within Quito Municipality´s Resolution A022-2021 of 18 May, a complete restriction of transport circulation has been issued for Friday and Saturday for the whole Metropolitan District, from 11pm to 6am of the following day.
    Vehicle circulation restrictions do not apply for verified medical emergencies and appointments; for transfers to the airport (showing flight tickets) and for key sectors with safe passage documents.
    In addition, people who work for certain vital sectors, such as health, food provision, financial and emergencies, will be allowed to circulate on the days which the vehicle’s number plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. You must present valid credentials or proof of emergency if stopped by a local authority. The issuance of special safe passage documents (“salvoconductos”) has been reinstated for private vehicles that can justify their need to circulate inside the “Hoy No Circula” restrictions.
    All public and social gatherings are prohibited. Pubs and nightclubs are closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily.
    You will be fined 50% of a minimum salary if you are found drinking in public spaces (including inside vehicles).
    Restaurants, shopping centres, public transport, bus terminals and tourist transport can operate at a maximum of 50% capacity. Cinemas, theatres and gyms (complying with minimum distancing requirements) can operate at a maximum capacity of 30%.
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers.
    Visit theGuayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    21.05.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news: Government imposes nighttime curfew, other mobility restrictions (Reuters, 22.04.2021)

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed.
    As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you to contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.
    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, all passengers will be required to sign a health declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) qualitative test for COVID-19, or a negative antigen rapid test, taken up to 3 days prior to their arrival in the country. This is a mandatory requirement, which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board.
    As of 22 March 2021, travellers who have had their complete COVID-19 vaccination can present the official vaccination certificate instead of the above negative RT-PCR or rapid test result. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review. You should arrange to take a private test.
    Passengers who had been diagnosed with COVID-19 through a positive RT-PCR test, if over a month has passed since the beginning of the symptoms, and who continue to show a positive test result, can be exempted from the above general requirement to enter the country (only if they no longer have symptoms, and if they present an official Medical Certificate which certifies their health condition, issued in their country of origin).
    Only airline crew members, children under 2 years old and passengers on transit to other countries are exempt from the RT-PCR or Antigen rapid test or the COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement.
    If, on arrival, a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, they will be evaluated by a health care worker and if necessary will be taken to the nearest health centre for a full evaluation.
    *Quarantine requirements: Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days. Self-isolation for non-residents can be carried out in any hotel. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    As of 9 April 2021, passengers arriving from Brazil, including those who had been in transit only, will need to self-isolate for 10 days in any hotel accredited by the Ministry of Tourism, regardless of the results of any test for COVID-19. This new requirement was announced by Ecuador’s National Emergency Committee on 6 April.
    The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only). If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Health website
    The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands.
    Foreigners wishing to enter the islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 96 hours prior to the date of departure to the Galapagos islands.
    On arrival in Ecuador tourists may be requested to take another PCR test, at their own expense. Tourists must also present a return flight and a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’) issued by the Ministry of Tourism to be exempt from doing 14 days of self-isolation on the islands. The tour operators or hotels are responsible for arranging this safe passage document on behalf of tourists, given that visitors are required to have previous contracted travel and accommodation arrangements. The Galapagos Transit Control Card, will need to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. On arrival in Ecuador you will be required to fill in a Health Status Declaration, including a local address. Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists.
    If you have any queries regarding travel back to mainland Ecuador, you can contact the Galapagos authorities via email at galapagosresponder@gmail.com
    *Visa extensions: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MFA) authorised a further 30 day visa extension for those people whose visa expired between 19 March 2020 and 21 January 2021.This is set out in Ministerial Decree 127 of 30 December 2020, which replaced decree 035. From 21 January 2021 foreign visitors had until 19 February 2021 to either leave the country, without paying a fine, or apply for a temporary visa, by lodging a formal application. The MFA implemented an online appointment system (“sistema agendamiento citas”) and immigration control officials have access to the MFA’s appointment platform to check applicants’ status.
    The MFA is encouraging customers not to approach their offices nationwide without a confirmed appointment (including for residence visa renewals and other services). Follow the MFA’s social media account for more information: Cancilleria Ecuador. For general guidance contact: consejeria@cancilleria.gob.ec / citasvisas@cancilleriga.gob.ec / citasvisas@cancilleriga.gob.ec. Get the relevant emails for other MFA’s Coordinaciones Zonales here.
    The maximum extension period to remain in Ecuador without a formal visa is 180 days. For any general enquiries contact: servicios.migratorios@ministeriodegobierno.gob.ec. To apply for a visa extension (known as “prórroga”) online see here

    Internal Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Health also provides aninformation page. However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account .
    *Public spaces and services: Power to impose traffic restrictions and controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area. The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19; • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces; • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing; •in-person school classes have been suspended since 2020. Blended classes (mix of in-person and online) will be allowed to take place if the school’s COVID action plan has been approved by the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) and according to existing restrictions; • remote working continues to be encouraged; • public gatherings and mass events are prohibited; • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app; • authorised labs to undertake COVID-19 tests; • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users; • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders; • ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed
    A 28-day state of emergency for the provinces of Azuay, Pichincha, Imbabura, Carchi, Tungurahua, Cotopaxi, El Oro, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Loja, Manabi, , Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas, Santa Elena, Los Rios, Sucumbios and Zamora Chinchipe was declared by the President on 21 April. This is due to the significant increased number of COVID-19 cases reported in these provinces and the fact that healthcare services are operating beyond their capacity and a shortage of required medicines and medical supplies. The related restrictions will come into force at 8pm on Friday 23 April and run until 11:59pm on Thursday 20 May.
    The decree of state of emergency ratifies the restriction measures announced by the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE), which includes, amongst others, curfew restrictions from 8pm on Monday until 5am on Thursday inclusive within the above period, as well as a complete lockdown and curfew at weekends from 8pmon Friday to 5am on Monday. Compliance will be the responsibility of the National Police and Armed Forces. People are strongly advised to comply with these curfew restrictions. The above restrictions do not apply for key sectors such as public and private healthcare, security, basic public services, emergency response, produce sectors and those who need to transport goods and food; people who are transporting passengers to/from the airport (showing flight tickets) and verified medical emergencies and appointments are also exempt.
    There will be no limitations on private vehicle circulation from Monday to Friday between 5am and 8pm.
    Other restrictions within the localised state of emergency period (23 April to 20 May) includes the prohibition of all social mass events and public gatherings; the suspension of mixed online-in-person schooling; restaurants, shopping centres, churches, funeral homes, gyms, theatres and cinemas can operate at 30% capacity; urban public transport can operate at 50% maximum capacity and inter provincial buses at 75% capacity but only with half of their frequency; pubs, nightclubs and other entertainment centres to remain closed, and beaches will be closed within curfew hours.
    Power to impose transit and other controls and the above tailored restrictions has been devolved to local municipalities and to other competent authorities, in conjuction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    .
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring.
    Under the state of emergency decree of 21 April 2021, the following regulations will be enforced nationwide from 23 April to 20 May: all public and private sectors to compulsory adopt virtual working; the prohibition of alcohol sales and consumption within curfew hours; in-person school classes to remain suspended until further notice, and the encouragement to local governments to restrict the operation of pubs, nightclubs and other entertainment centres during this period.
    Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol consumption.
    We strongly recommend that you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only).
    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    *Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times.
    All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities.
    The “Hoy Circula” circulation private vehicle restriction system will be lifted during the state of emergency period, 23 April to 20 May, from Monday 5am to 8pm Friday. The issuance of special safe passage documents (“salvoconductos”) is also suspended.
    All public and social gatherings are prohibited. Pubs, nightclubs and gyms are also closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily. Alcohol sales and consumption are suspended during curfew hours.
    You will be fined 50% of a minimum salary if you are found drinking in public spaces (including inside vehicles).
    Restaurants and shopping centres can operate at 30% maximum capacity, while public transport, bus terminals, interstate and tourist transport can operate at a maximum 50% capacity.
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers.
    Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and relatedFAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    23.04.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news:

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed.
    As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you to contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.
    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, all passengers will be required to sign a health declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) qualitative test for COVID-19, or a negative antigen rapid test, taken up to 3 days prior to their arrival in the country. This is a mandatory requirement, which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board.
    As of 22 March 2021, travellers who have had their complete COVID-19 vaccination can present the official vaccination certificate instead of the above negative RT-PCR or rapid test result. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review. You should arrange to take a private test.
    Passengers who had been diagnosed with COVID-19 through a positive RT-PCR test, if over a month has passed since the beginning of the symptoms, and who continue to show a positive test result, can be exempted from the above general requirement to enter the country (only if they no longer have symptoms, and if they present an official Medical Certificate which certifies their health condition, issued in their country of origin).
    Only airline crew members, children under 2 years old and passengers on transit to other countries are exempt from the RT-PCR or Antigen rapid test or the COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement.
    If, on arrival, a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, they will be evaluated by a health care worker and if necessary will be taken to the nearest health centre for a full evaluation.
    *Quarantine requirements: Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days. Self-isolation for non-residents can be carried out in any hotel. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    As of 9 April 2021, passengers arriving from Brazil, including those who had been in transit only, will need to self-isolate for 10 days in any hotel accredited by the Ministry of Tourism, regardless of the results of any test for COVID-19. This new requirement was announced by Ecuador’s National Emergency Committee on 6 April.
    The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only). If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Health website
    The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands.
    Foreigners wishing to enter the islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 96 hours prior to the date of departure to the Galapagos islands.
    On arrival in Ecuador tourists may be requested to take another PCR test, at their own expense. Tourists must also present a return flight and a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’) issued by the Ministry of Tourism to be exempt from doing 14 days of self-isolation on the islands. The tour operators or hotels are responsible for arranging this safe passage document on behalf of tourists, given that visitors are required to have previous contracted travel and accommodation arrangements. The Galapagos Transit Control Card, will need to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. On arrival in Ecuador you will be required to fill in a Health Status Declaration, including a local address. Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists.
    If you have any queries regarding travel back to mainland Ecuador, you can contact the Galapagos authorities via email at galapagosresponder@gmail.com
    *Visa extensions: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MFA) authorised a further 30 day visa extension for those people whose visa expired between 19 March 2020 and 21 January 2021.This is set out in Ministerial Decree 127 of 30 December 2020, which replaced decree 035. From 21 January 2021 foreign visitors had until 19 February 2021 to either leave the country, without paying a fine, or apply for a temporary visa, by lodging a formal application. The MFA implemented an online appointment system (“sistema agendamiento citas”) and immigration control officials have access to the MFA’s appointment platform to check applicants’ status.
    The MFA is encouraging customers not to approach their offices nationwide without a confirmed appointment (including for residence visa renewals and other services). Follow the MFA’s social media account for more information: Cancilleria Ecuador. For general guidance contact: consejeria@cancilleria.gob.ec / citasvisas@cancilleriga.gob.ec / citasvisas@cancilleriga.gob.ec. Get the relevant emails for other MFA’s Coordinaciones Zonales here.
    The maximum extension period to remain in Ecuador without a formal visa is 180 days. For any general enquiries contact: servicios.migratorios@ministeriodegobierno.gob.ec. To apply for a visa extension (known as “prórroga”) online see here

    Internal Restrictions: *Travel in Ecuador
    The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Health also provides an information page. However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account.

    *Public spaces and services: Power to impose traffic restrictions and controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces.
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • in-person school classes have been suspended since 2020. Blended classes (mix of in-person and online) will be allowed to take place from 26 April, if the school’s COVID action plan has been approved by the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE)
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • public gatherings and mass events are prohibited
    • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app.
    • authorized labs to undertake COVID-19 tests
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders.
    • ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed
    The state of emergency for the provinces of Azuay, El Oro, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Loja, Manabi, Pichincha and Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas, ended on 9 April 2021. However, the National Emergency Operations Committee made a recommendation in their resolution of 14 April, that these provinces, plus those of Santa Elena, Los Rios and Zamora, should consider restricting vehicle circulation from 8pm to 5am from 16 April to 2 May. They also recommended that the Ministry of Education should suspend in-person classes in all these provinces due to the increased number of COVID-19 cases reported.
    COE´s resolution of 14 April also recommends a further traffic restriction along national highways, from Friday to Sunday between 8pm and 5am, during the whole month of April.
    The above vehicle restrictions do not apply for key sectors such as public and private healthcare, security, basic public services, emergency response, produce sectors and those who need to transport goods and food; people who are transporting passengers to/from the airport (showing flight tickets) and for verified medical emergencies and appointments are also exempt.
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring.
    Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport and institutions, operations capacity of private businesses, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol consumption.
    We recommend you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos

    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only).

    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    Due to the Labour Day public holiday on 1 May, Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has given notice of the following further restrictions in their resolution of 28 March 2021:
    • Prohibition of alcohol sales after 6pm on 30 April and 1 May
    *Restrictions in Quito
    Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times.
    All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities.
    Only people who work for certain vital sectors, such as health, food provision, financial and emergencies, will be allowed to circulate on the days which the vehicle’s number plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. You must present valid credentials or proof of emergency if stopped by a local authority. The Municipality may be able to issue special safe passage documents (“salvoconducto”) for private vehicles that can justify their need to circulate outside the “Hoy Circula” restrictions (passenger transfer to and from the airport, and medical appointments).
    As part of the Municipality´s regular monitoring of the pandemic situation, the Quito Metropolitan Emergency Operations Committee issued new temporary restrictions that will be in force from 31 March 2021 to 31 May. In addition, and following Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee’s resolution of 14 April 2021, Quito Municipality has agreed to enforce vehicle circulation restriction from 8pm to 5am from 16 April to 2 May.
    All public and social gatherings are prohibited. Pubs, nightclubs and gyms are also closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily.
    Alcohol sales and consumption are suspended from 6pm onwards from Monday to Thursday, and all day Friday to Sunday.
    You will be fined 50% of a minimum salary if you are found drinking in public spaces (including inside vehicles).
    Restaurants can operate at 30% capacity, while public transport, bus terminals, interstate and tourist transport and shopping centres can operate at a maximum 50% capacity.
    Private vehicles in Quito will continue to circulate through the “Hoy Circula” system, between 5am and 10pm, as follows:
    Vehicles with number plates ending in the following numbers cannot circulate on the following days:
    Monday: 0, 1, 2, 3
    Tuesday: 2, 3, 4, 5
    Wednesday: 4, 5, 6, 7
    Thursday: 6, 7, 8, 9
    Friday: 8, 9, 0, 1
    Saturdays, Sundays and official public holidays: all vehicle number plates are allowed to circulate.
    No private vehicle can circulate between 10pm – 5am.
    Vehicle circulation restrictions do not apply for verified medical emergencies and appointments and for transfers to the airport (showing flight tickets).
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website
    for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers.
    Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    19.04.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news:

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed.
    As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you to contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.
    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, all passengers will be required to sign a health declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) qualitative test for COVID-19, or a negative antigen rapid test, taken up to 3 days prior to their arrival in the country. This is a mandatory requirement, which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board.
    As of 22 March 2021, travellers who have had their complete COVID-19 vaccination can present the official vaccination certificate instead of the above negative RT-PCR or rapid test result. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review. You should arrange to take a private test.
    Passengers who had been diagnosed with COVID-19 through a positive RT-PCR test, if over a month has passed since the beginning of the symptoms, and who continue to show a positive test result, can be exempted from the above general requirement to enter the country (only if they no longer have symptoms, and if they present an official Medical Certificate which certifies their health condition, issued in their country of origin).
    Only airline crew members, children under 2 years old and passengers on transit to other countries are exempt from the RT-PCR or Antigen rapid test or the COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement.
    If, on arrival, a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, they will be evaluated by a health care worker and if necessary will be taken to the nearest health centre for a full evaluation.
    *Quarantine requirements: Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days. Self-isolation for non-residents can be carried out in any hotel. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    As of 9 April 2021, passengers arriving from Brazil, including those who had been in transit only, will need to self-isolate for 10 days in any hotel accredited by the Ministry of Tourism, regardless of the results of any test for COVID-19. This new requirement was announced by Ecuador’s National Emergency Committee on 6 April.
    The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only). If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Health website
    The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands.
    Foreigners wishing to enter the islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 96 hours prior to the date of departure to the Galapagos islands.
    On arrival in Ecuador tourists may be requested to take another PCR test, at their own expense. Tourists must also present a return flight and a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’) issued by the Ministry of Tourism to be exempt from doing 14 days of self-isolation on the islands. The tour operators or hotels are responsible for arranging this safe passage document on behalf of tourists, given that visitors are required to have previous contracted travel and accommodation arrangements. The Galapagos Transit Control Card, will need to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. On arrival in Ecuador you will be required to fill in a Health Status Declaration, including a local address. Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists.
    If you have any queries regarding travel back to mainland Ecuador, you can contact the Galapagos authorities via email at galapagosresponder@gmail.com
    *Visa extensions: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MFA) authorised a further 30 day visa extension for those people whose visa expired between 19 March 2020 and 21 January 2021.This is set out in Ministerial Decree 127 of 30 December 2020, which replaced decree 035. From 21 January 2021 foreign visitors had until 19 February 2021 to either leave the country, without paying a fine, or apply for a temporary visa, by lodging a formal application. The MFA implemented an online appointment system (“sistema agendamiento citas”) and immigration control officials have access to the MFA’s appointment platform to check applicants’ status.
    The MFA is encouraging customers not to approach their offices nationwide without a confirmed appointment (including for residence visa renewals and other services). Follow the MFA’s social media account for more information: Cancilleria Ecuador. For general guidance contact: consejeria@cancilleria.gob.ec / citasvisas@cancilleriga.gob.ec / citasvisas@cancilleriga.gob.ec. Get the relevant emails for other MFA’s Coordinaciones Zonales here.
    The maximum extension period to remain in Ecuador without a formal visa is 180 days. For any general enquiries contact: servicios.migratorios@ministeriodegobierno.gob.ec. To apply for a visa extension (known as “prórroga”) online see here

    Internal Restrictions: *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Health also provides an information page. However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account.
    *Public spaces and services: The state of emergency for the provinces of Azuay, El Oro, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Loja, Manabi, Pichincha and Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas, ended on 9 April. Power to impose traffic restrictions and controls on social gatherings lies with local municipalities and other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions, including vehicle circulation restrictions in your area.
    The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces.
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • in-person school classes have been suspended since 2020. Blended classes (mix of in-person and online) will be allowed to take place from 26 April, if the school’s COVID action plan has been approved by the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE)
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • public gatherings are prohibited
    • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app.
    • authorized labs to undertake COVID-19 tests
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders.
    • ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring.
    Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport and institutions, operations capacity of private businesses, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol consumption
    We recommend you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only).
    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    Due to the Labour Day public holiday on 1 May, Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has given notice of the following further restrictions in their resolution of 28 March 2021:
    • Prohibition of alcohol sales after 6pm on 30 April and 1 May
    *Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times.
    All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities.
    Only people who work for certain vital sectors, such as health, food provision, financial and emergencies, will be allowed to circulate on the days which the vehicle’s number plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. You must present valid credentials or proof of emergency if stopped by a local authority. The Municipality may be able to issue special safe passage documents (“salvoconducto”) for private vehicles that can justify their need to circulate outside the “Hoy Circula” restrictions (passenger transfer to and from the airport, and medical appointments).
    As part of the Municipality´s regular monitoring of the pandemic situation, the Quito Metropolitan Emergency Operations Committee issued new temporary restrictions that will be in force from 31 March 2021 to 31 May. However, some restrictions have been reinforced through the state of emergency declared on 1 April, in which Pichincha province (Quito) is included.
    All public and social gatherings are prohibited. Pubs, nightclubs and gyms are also closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily.
    Alcohol sales and consumption are suspended from 6pm onwards from Monday to Thursday, and all day Friday to Sunday.
    You will be fined 50% of a minimum salary if you are found drinking in public spaces (including inside vehicles).
    Restaurants can operate at 30% capacity, while public transport, bus terminals, interstate and tourist transport and shopping centres can operate at a maximum 50% capacity.
    Private vehicles in Quito will continue to circulate through the “Hoy Circula” system, between 5am and 10pm, as follows:
    Vehicles with number plates ending in the following numbers cannot circulate on the following days:
    Monday: 0, 1, 2, 3
    Tuesday: 2, 3, 4, 5
    Wednesday: 4, 5, 6, 7
    Thursday: 6, 7, 8, 9
    Friday: 8, 9, 0, 1
    Saturdays, Sundays and official public holidays: all vehicle number plates are allowed to circulate.
    No private vehicle can circulate between 10pm – 5am.
    Vehicle circulation restrictions do not apply for verified medical emergencies and appointments and for transfers to the airport (showing flight tickets).
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers.
    Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    14.04.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news:

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed. As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.
    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, all passengers will be required to sign a health declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) qualitative test for COVID-19, or a negative antigen rapid test, taken up to 3 days prior to their arrival in the country. This is a mandatory requirement which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board.
    As of 22 March 2021, travellers who have had their complete COVID-19 vaccination can present the official vaccination certificate instead of the above negative RT-PCR or rapid test result. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review.
    Passengers who had been diagnosed with COVID-19 through a positive RT-PCR test, if over a month has passed since the beginning of the symptoms, and who continue to show a positive test result, can be exempted from the above general requirement to enter the country (only if they no longer have symptoms, and if they present an official Medical Certificate which certifies their health condition, issued in their country of origin).
    Only airline crew members, children under 2 years old and passengers on transit to other countries are exempt from the RT-PCR or Antigen rapid test or the COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement.
    If, on arrival, a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, they will be evaluated by a health care worker and if necessary will be taken to the nearest health centre for a full evaluation.
    *Quarantine requirements: Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days. Self-isolation for non-residents can be carried out in any hotel. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes. The local authorities have alist of recommended hotels. The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only). If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Health website. The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    *Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands. Foreigners wishing to enter the islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 96 hours prior to the date of departure to the Galapagos islands. On arrival in Ecuador tourists may be requested to take another PCR test, at their own expense. Tourists must also present a return flight and a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’) issued by the Ministry of Tourism to be exempt from doing 14 days of self-isolation on the islands. The tour operators or hotels are responsible for arranging this safe passage document on behalf of tourists, given that visitors are required to have previous contracted travel and accommodation arrangements. The Galapagos Transit Control Card, will need to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. On arrival in Ecuador you will be required to fill in a Health Status Declaration, including a local address. Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists. If you have any queries regarding travel back to mainland Ecuador, you can contact the Galapagos authorities via email: galapagosresponder@gmail.com

    Internal Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Health also provides an information page. However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account.
    *Public spaces and services: A 30-day state of emergency for the provinces of Azuay, El Oro, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Loja, Manabi, Pichincha and Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas, was declared by the President on 1 April. This includes: a curfew for people and vehicles from 8pm to 5am, between 2 and 9 April, the prohibition of alcohol sales and consumption from 6pm onwards from Monday to Thursday and all day Friday, Saturday and Sunday; the prohibition of social and public gatherings; the suspension of mixed online/in-person schooling; restaurants can operate at 30% capacity and shopping centres at 50% capacity; and all public and private sectors to prioritise virtual working.
    Power to impose traffic restrictions and controls on social gatherings, as well as the above regulations, is now devolved to local municipalities and to other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Vehicle circulation restriction: vehicles with number-plates ending with even numbers cannot circulate on Monday, Wednesday and Friday; vehicles with number-plates ending with odd numbers cannot circulate on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
    The above vehicle restrictions do not apply for key sectors such as public and private healthcare, security, basic public services, emergency response, produce sectors and those who need to transport goods and food; people who are transporting passengers to/from the airport (showing flight tickets) and for verified medical emergencies and appointments are also exempt.
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions. The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces.
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • in-person school classes have been suspended since 2020. However, from 2 March 2021 in rural areas, and 13 April 2021 in urban areas, blended classes (mix of in-person and online) are permitted to take place, if the school’s COVID action plan has been approved by the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE)
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • public gatherings are prohibited
    • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app.
    • authorised labs to undertake COVID-19 tests
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders.
    • ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring.
    Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport and institutions, operations capacity of private businesses, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol consumption
    We recommend you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only).
    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    Due to the Labour Day public holiday on 1 May, Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has given notice of the following further restrictions in their resolution of 28 March 2021:
    • Prohibition of alcohol sales after 6pm on 30 April and 1 May
    Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times. All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities.
    Only people who work for certain vital sectors, such as health, food provision, financial and emergencies, will be allowed to circulate on the days which the vehicle’s number plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. You must present valid credentials or proof of emergency if stopped by a local authority. The Municipality may be able to issue special safe passage documents (“salvoconducto”) for private vehicles that can justify their need to circulate outside the “Hoy Circula” restrictions (passenger transfer to and from the airport, and medical appointments).
    As part of the Municipality´s regular monitoring of the pandemic situation, the Quito Metropolitan Emergency Operations Committee issued new temporary restrictions that will be in force from 31 March 2021 to 31 May. However, some restrictions have been reinforced through the state of emergency declared on 1 April, in which Pichincha province (Quito) is included.
    All public and social gatherings are prohibited. Pubs, nightclubs and gyms are also closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily. Alcohol sales and consumption are suspended from 6pm onwards from Monday to Thursday, and all day Friday to Sunday.
    You will be fined 50% of a minimum salary if you are found drinking in public spaces (including inside vehicles).
    Restaurants can operate at 30% capacity, while public transport, bus terminals, interstate and tourist transport and shopping centres can operate at a maximum 50% capacity.
    Vehicle circulation restrictions, aligned to the state of emergency´s announcement:
    Vehicles with number-plates ending with even numbers cannot circulate on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
    Vehicles with number-plates ending with odd numbers cannot circulate on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
    Vehicle circulation restrictions do not apply for verified medical emergencies and appointments and for transfers to the airport (showing flight tickets).
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website
    for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers.
    Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    09.04.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news:

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed. As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.
    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, all passengers will be required to sign a health declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) qualitative test for COVID-19, or a negative antigen rapid test, taken up to 3 days prior to their arrival in the country. This is a mandatory requirement which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board.
    As of 22 March 2021, travellers who have had their complete COVID-19 vaccination can present the official vaccination certificate instead of the above negative RT-PCR or rapid test result. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review.
    Passengers who had been diagnosed with COVID-19 through a positive RT-PCR test, if over a month has passed since the beginning of the symptoms, and who continue to show a positive test result, can be exempted from the above general requirement to enter the country (only if they no longer have symptoms, and if they present an official Medical Certificate which certifies their health condition, issued in their country of origin).
    Only airline crew members, children under 2 years old and passengers on transit to other countries are exempt from the RT-PCR or Antigen rapid test or the COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement.
    If, on arrival, a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, they will be evaluated by a health care worker and if necessary will be taken to the nearest health centre for a full evaluation.
    *Quarantine requirements: Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days. Self-isolation for non-residents can be carried out in any hotel. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes. The local authorities have alist of recommended hotels. The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only). If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Health website. The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    *Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands. Foreigners wishing to enter the islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 96 hours prior to the date of departure to the Galapagos islands. On arrival in Ecuador tourists may be requested to take another PCR test, at their own expense. Tourists must also present a return flight and a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’) issued by the Ministry of Tourism to be exempt from doing 14 days of self-isolation on the islands. The tour operators or hotels are responsible for arranging this safe passage document on behalf of tourists, given that visitors are required to have previous contracted travel and accommodation arrangements. The Galapagos Transit Control Card, will need to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. On arrival in Ecuador you will be required to fill in a Health Status Declaration, including a local address. Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists. If you have any queries regarding travel back to mainland Ecuador, you can contact the Galapagos authorities via email: galapagosresponder@gmail.com

    Internal Restrictions: *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Health also provides an information page. However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account.
    *Public spaces and services: A 30-day state of emergency for the provinces of Azuay, El Oro, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Loja, Manabi, Pichincha and Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas, was declared by the President on 1 April. This includes: a curfew for people and vehicles from 8pm to 5am, between 2 and 9 April, the prohibition of alcohol sales and consumption from 6pm onwards from Monday to Thursday and all day Friday, Saturday and Sunday; the prohibition of social and public gatherings; the suspension of mixed online/in-person schooling; restaurants can operate at 30% capacity and shopping centres at 50% capacity; and all public and private sectors to prioritise virtual working.
    Power to impose traffic restrictions and controls on social gatherings, as well as the above regulations, is now devolved to local municipalities and to other competent authorities, in conjunction with Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE).
    Vehicle circulation restriction: vehicles with number-plates ending with even numbers cannot circulate on Monday, Wednesday and Friday; vehicles with number-plates ending with odd numbers cannot circulate on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
    The above vehicle restrictions do not apply for key sectors such as public and private healthcare, security, basic public services, emergency response, produce sectors and those who need to transport goods and food; people who are transporting passengers to/from the airport (showing flight tickets) and for verified medical emergencies and appointments are also exempt.
    Please check more detailed information with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions.
    The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces.
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • in-person school classes have been suspended since 2020. However, from 2 March 2021 in rural areas, and 13 April 2021 in urban areas, blended classes (mix of in-person and online) are permitted to take place, if the school’s COVID action plan has been approved by the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE)
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • public gatherings are prohibited
    • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app.
    • authorized labs to undertake COVID-19 tests
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders.
    • ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring.
    Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport and institutions, operations capacity of private businesses, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol consumption
    We recommend you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only).
    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    Due to the Labour Day public holiday on 1 May, Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has given notice of the following further restrictions in their resolution of 28 March 2021:
    • Prohibition of alcohol sales after 6pm on 30 April and 1 May
    Restrictions in Quito
    Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times.
    All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities.
    Only people who work for certain vital sectors, such as health, food provision, financial and emergencies, will be allowed to circulate on the days which the vehicle’s number plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. You must present valid credentials or proof of emergency if stopped by a local authority. The Municipality may be able to issue special safe passage documents (“salvoconducto”) for private vehicles that can justify their need to circulate outside the “Hoy Circula” restrictions (passenger transfer to and from the airport, and medical appointments).
    As part of the Municipality´s regular monitoring of the pandemic situation, the Quito Metropolitan Emergency Operations Committee issued new temporary restrictions that will be in force from 31 March 2021 to 31 May. However, some restrictions have been reinforced through the state of emergency declared on 1 April, in which Pichincha province (Quito) is included.
    All public and social gatherings are prohibited. Pubs, nightclubs and gyms are also closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily.
    Alcohol sales and consumption are suspended from 6pm onwards from Monday to Thursday, and all day Friday to Sunday. You will be fined 50% of a minimum salary if you are found drinking in public spaces (including inside vehicles).
    Restaurants can operate at 30% capacity, while public transport, bus terminals, interstate and tourist transport and shopping centres can operate at a maximum 50% capacity.
    Vehicle circulation restrictions, aligned to the state of emergency´s announcement:
    Vehicles with number-plates ending with even numbers cannot circulate on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
    Vehicles with number-plates ending with odd numbers cannot circulate on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
    Vehicle circulation restrictions do not apply for verified medical emergencies and appointments and for transfers to the airport (showing flight tickets).
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website
    for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers.
    Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    05.04.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news:

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed. As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.
    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, all passengers will be required to sign a health declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) qualitative test for COVID-19, or a negative antigen rapid test, taken up to 3 days prior to their arrival in the country. This is a mandatory requirement which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board.
    As of 22 March 2021, travellers who have had their complete COVID-19 vaccination can present the official vaccination certificate instead of the above negative RT-PCR or rapid test result. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review.
    Passengers who had been diagnosed with COVID-19 through a positive RT-PCR test, if over a month has passed since the beginning of the symptoms, and who continue to show a positive test result, can be exempted from the above general requirement to enter the country (only if they no longer have symptoms, and if they present an official Medical Certificate which certifies their health condition, issued in their country of origin).
    Only airline crew members, children under 2 years old and passengers on transit to other countries are exempt from the RT-PCR or Antigen rapid test or the COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement.
    If, on arrival, a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, they will be evaluated by a health care worker and if necessary will be taken to the nearest health centre for a full evaluation.
    *Quarantine requirements: Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days. Self-isolation for non-residents can be carried out in any hotel. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes. The local authorities have alist of recommended hotels. The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only). If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Health website. The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    *Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands. Foreigners wishing to enter the islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 96 hours prior to the date of departure to the Galapagos islands. On arrival in Ecuador tourists may be requested to take another PCR test, at their own expense. Tourists must also present a return flight and a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’) issued by the Ministry of Tourism to be exempt from doing 14 days of self-isolation on the islands. The tour operators or hotels are responsible for arranging this safe passage document on behalf of tourists, given that visitors are required to have previous contracted travel and accommodation arrangements. The Galapagos Transit Control Card, will need to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. On arrival in Ecuador you will be required to fill in a Health Status Declaration, including a local address. Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists. If you have any queries regarding travel back to mainland Ecuador, you can contact the Galapagos authorities via email: galapagosresponder@gmail.com

    Internal Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Health also provides aninformation page . However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account.

    *Public spaces and services: Following the announcement of the end of the national state of emergency, as of 4 January 2021, curfew restrictions are no longer in place. Power to impose controls and tailor regulations is now devolved to local municipalities and to other competent authorities. (Please therefore check with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions.)
    A national public health emergency remains in place. The Ecuadorean Ministry of Health issued an emergency extension of 90 days on 11 December 2020. The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces.
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • in-person school classes have been suspended since 2020. However, from 2 March in rural areas, and 13 April in urban areas, blended classes (mix of in-person and online) are permitted to take place, if the school’s COVID action plan has been approved by the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE)
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • public gatherings are prohibited
    • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app.
    • authorised labs to undertake COVID-19 tests
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders.
    • ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring.
    Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport and institutions, operations capacity of private businesses, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol consumption
    We recommend you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only).
    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    Due to public holidays (Easter Friday on 2 April and Labour Day on 1 May), Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has given notice of the following further restrictions in their resolution of 28 March:
    • Closure of beaches on 2, 3 and 4 April
    • Prohibition of alcohol sales after 18:00 on 2, 3 and 30 April and 1 May
    Vehicle circulation restrictions on national motorways:
    • Thursday 1 April: vehicles ending with odd number plates cannot circulate from 1200 onwards.
    • Friday 2 April: vehicles ending with even number plates cannot circulate all day
    • Saturday 3 April: vehicles ending with odd number plates cannot circulate all day
    • Sunday 4 April: vehicles ending with even number plates cannot circulate all day
    The above vehicle restrictions do not apply for those who belong to the produce sector and need to transport goods (showing their credentials or the RUC/RISE commercial licence); for those transporting passengers to the airport (showing flight tickets) and for medical emergencies (duly verified).
    Restrictions in Quito
    Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times. All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities.
    Only people who work for certain vital sectors, such as health, food provision, financial and emergencies, will be allowed to circulate on the days which the vehicle’s number plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. You must present valid credentials or proof of emergency if stopped by a local authority. The Municipality can issue special safe passage documents (“salvoconducto”) for private vehicles that can justify their need to circulate outside the “Hoy Circula” restrictions (passenger transfer to and from the airport, and medical appointments).
    Inter-provincial bus transport operation has been authorised by local municipalities, at 75% capacity, from/to bus terminals. Accredited tourist transport vehicles are not subject to any mobility restriction. As part of the Municipality´s regular monitoring of the pandemic situation, the Quito Metropolitan Emergency Operations Committee has issued new temporary restrictions that will be in force from 31 March 2021 to 31 May.
    All public gatherings are suspended. Pubs, nightclubs and gyms are also closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily. On Fridays and Saturdays alcohol beverage sales are only permitted between 6am and 10pm. On Sundays alcohol beverage sales are completely forbidden.
    You will be fined 50% of a minimum salary if you are found drinking in public spaces (including inside vehicles). Restaurants, cinemas and theatres can operate at 30% capacity, while public transport, bus terminals and interstate and tourist transport can operate at a maximum 50% capacity. Shopping centres can operate at 50% between 0800-2000.
    Family and social gatherings are limited to 10 people. Private vehicles will continue to circulate through the “Hoy Circula” system, between 6am and 10pm, as follows:
    Vehicles with number plates ending in the following numbers cannot circulate on these given days:
    Monday: 0, 1, 2, 3
    Tuesday: 2, 3, 4, 5
    Wednesday: 4, 5, 6, 7
    Thursday: 6, 7, 8, 9
    Friday: 8, 9, 0, 1
    Saturdays, Sundays and official public holidays: all vehicle number plates are allowed to circulate.
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website
    for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers.
    Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    01.04.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news:

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed. As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.
    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, all passengers will be required to sign a health declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) qualitative test for COVID-19, or a negative antigen rapid test, taken up to 3 days prior to their arrival in the country. This is a mandatory requirement which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board.
    As of 22 March 2021, travellers who have had their complete COVID-19 vaccination can present the official vaccination certificate instead of the above negative RT-PCR or rapid test result. However, the use of “Immunity Certificates or Vaccination Certificates/Cards” from foreign passengers will be subject to constant review.
    Passengers who had been diagnosed with COVID-19 through a positive RT-PCR test, if over a month has passed since the beginning of the symptoms, and who continue to show a positive test result, can be exempted from the above general requirement to enter the country (only if they no longer have symptoms, and if they present an official Medical Certificate which certifies their health condition, issued in their country of origin).
    Only airline crew members, children under 2 years old and passengers on transit to other countries are exempt from the RT-PCR or Antigen rapid test or the COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement.
    If, on arrival, a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, they will be evaluated by a health care worker and if necessary will be taken to the nearest health centre for a full evaluation.
    *Quarantine requirements: Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days. Self-isolation for non-residents can be carried out in any hotel. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes. The local authorities have alist of recommended hotels. The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only). If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Health website. The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    *Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands. Foreigners wishing to enter the islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 96 hours prior to the date of departure to the Galapagos islands. On arrival in Ecuador tourists may be requested to take another PCR test, at their own expense. Tourists must also present a return flight and a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’) issued by the Ministry of Tourism to be exempt from doing 14 days of self-isolation on the islands. The tour operators or hotels are responsible for arranging this safe passage document on behalf of tourists, given that visitors are required to have previous contracted travel and accommodation arrangements. The Galapagos Transit Control Card, will need to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. On arrival in Ecuador you will be required to fill in a Health Status Declaration, including a local address. Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists. If you have any queries regarding travel back to mainland Ecuador, you can contact the Galapagos authorities via email: galapagosresponder@gmail.com

    Internal Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Health also provides aninformation page . However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account.
    *Public spaces and services: Following the announcement of the end of the national state of emergency, as of 4 January 2021, curfew restrictions are no longer in place. Power to impose controls and tailor regulations is now devolved to local municipalities and to other competent authorities. (Please therefore check with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions). A national public health emergency remains in place. The Ecuadorean Ministry of Health issued an emergency extension of 90 days on 11 December 2020. The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19;

    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces;
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing;
    • all in-person classes are suspended. Classes will continue online until 28 February when blended classes (in-person and online) will be allowed to be proposed by schools on a pilot basis;
    • remote working continues to be encouraged;
    • public gatherings are prohibited;
    • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app;

    • authorised labs to undertake COVID-19 tests;
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users;
    • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders;
    • ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed.

    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring. Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport and institutions, operations capacity of private businesses, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol consumption. We recommend you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only). Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    *Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times. All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities. Only people who work for certain vital sectors, such as health, food provision, financial and emergencies, will be allowed to circulate on the days which the vehicle’s number plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. You must present valid credentials or proof of emergency if stopped by a local authority. The Municipality can issue special safe passage documents (“salvoconducto”) for private vehicles that can justify their need to circulate outside the “Hoy Circula” restrictions (passenger transfer to and from the airport, and medical appointments). Inter-provincial bus transport operation has been authorised by local municipalities, at 75% capacity, from/to bus terminals. Accredited tourist transport vehicles are not subject to any mobility restriction.
    As part of the Municipality´s regular monitoring of the pandemic situation, the Quito Metropolitan Emergency Operations Committee has issued new temporary restrictions that will be in force from 15 February to 31 March 2021. All public gatherings are suspended. Pubs, nightclubs and gyms are also closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, alcohol sales are only permitted between 6am and 10pm. Restaurants, cinemas and theatres can operate at 30% capacity, while public transport, bus terminals and interstate and tourist transport can operate at a maximum 50% capacity. Shopping centres can operate at 50% between 0800-2000. Family and social gatherings are limited to 10 people.
    Private vehicles will continue to circulate through the “Hoy Circula” system, between 6am and 8pm, as follows: Vehicles with number plates ending in the following numbers cannot circulate on these given days: Monday: 0, 1, 2, 3; Tuesday: 2, 3, 4, 5; Wednesday: 4, 5, 6, 7; Thursday: 6, 7, 8, 9; Friday: 8, 9, 0, 1. Saturdays, Sundays and official public holidays: all vehicle number plates are allowed to circulate. Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers. Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers. Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    23.03.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news: On December 21, the Government of Ecuador announced a 30-day state of emergency to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 virus (OSAC, 22.12.2020).

    International Restrictions: Entry rules in response to coronavirus (COVID-19).
    *Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed. As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you to contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.
    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, all passengers will be required to sign a declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 10 days prior to their arrival in the country. This is a mandatory requirement, which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board. In countries where the PCR tests are not available, passengers must agree to take a COVID-19 test at the airport in Ecuador on arrival, at their expense. Airline crew members are exempt from the PCR test requirement. Antigen tests (rapid test) will be randomly carried out, by the Ministry of Health (MSP), on passengers arriving in Ecuador by air, sea or land. This test will be provided by the MSP. As of 13 January 2021, the only passengers officially exempted from the random rapid tests are airline crew members and children under 14 years old. If you test positive in the antigen test, you will need to self-isolate for 10 days. Non-residents of Ecuador will have to self-isolate in specific hotels as determined by the local authorities and at their own expense. Residents can isolate in their home. If on arrival a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, despite their antigen test result, they will be evaluated by a health care worker and if needed will be taken to the nearest health centre for a full evaluation.
    *Quarantine requirements: Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days. Self-isolation for non-residents must be carried out in specified hotels. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only). If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Health website. The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    *Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands. Foreigners wishing to enter the islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 96 hours prior to the date of departure to the Galapagos islands. On arrival in Ecuador tourists may be requested to take another PCR test, at their own expense. Tourists must also present a return flight and a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’) issued by the Ministry of Tourism to be exempt from doing 14 days of self-isolation on the islands. The tour operators or hotels are responsible for arranging this safe passage document on behalf of tourists, given that visitors are required to have previous contracted travel and accommodation arrangements. The Galapagos Transit Control Card, will need to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. On arrival in Ecuador you will be required to fill in a Health Status Declaration, including a local address. Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists. If you have any queries regarding travel back to mainland Ecuador, you can contact the Galapagos authorities via email at galapagosresponder@gmail.com

    Internal Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Health also provides aninformation page . However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account.
    *Public spaces and services: Following the announcement of the end of the national state of emergency, as of 4 January 2021, curfew restrictions are no longer in place. Power to impose controls and tailor regulations is now devolved to local municipalities and to other competent authorities. (Please therefore check with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions). A national public health emergency remains in place. The Ecuadorean Ministry of Health issued an emergency extension of 90 days on 11 December 2020. The general nationwide biosecurity measures include: • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19; • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces; • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing; • all in-person classes are suspended. Classes will continue online until 28 February when blended classes (in-person and online) will be allowed to be proposed by schools on a pilot basis; • remote working continues to be encouraged; • public gatherings are prohibited; • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app; • authorised labs to undertake COVID-19 tests; • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users; • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders; • ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring. Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport and institutions, operations capacity of private businesses, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol consumption. We recommend you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only). Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    *Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times. All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities. Only people who work for certain vital sectors, such as health, food provision, financial and emergencies, will be allowed to circulate on the days which the vehicle’s number plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. You must present valid credentials or proof of emergency if stopped by a local authority. The Municipality can issue special safe passage documents (“salvoconducto”) for private vehicles that can justify their need to circulate outside the “Hoy Circula” restrictions (passenger transfer to and from the airport, and medical appointments). Inter-provincial bus transport operation has been authorised by local municipalities, at 75% capacity, from/to bus terminals. Accredited tourist transport vehicles are not subject to any mobility restriction.
    As part of the Municipality´s regular monitoring of the pandemic situation, the Quito Metropolitan Emergency Operations Committee has issued new temporary restrictions that will be in force from 15 February to 31 March 2021. All public gatherings are suspended. Pubs, nightclubs and gyms are also closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, alcohol sales are only permitted between 6am and 10pm. Restaurants, cinemas and theatres can operate at 30% capacity, while public transport, bus terminals and interstate and tourist transport can operate at a maximum 50% capacity. Shopping centres can operate at 50% between 0800-2000. Family and social gatherings are limited to 10 people. Private vehicles will continue to circulate through the “Hoy Circula” system, between 6am and 8pm, as follows: Vehicles with number plates ending in the following numbers cannot circulate on these given days: Monday: 0, 1, 2, 3; Tuesday: 2, 3, 4, 5; Wednesday: 4, 5, 6, 7; Thursday: 6, 7, 8, 9; Friday: 8, 9, 0, 1. Saturdays, Sundays and official public holidays: all vehicle number plates are allowed to circulate. Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers. Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers. Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    08.03.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news: On December 21, the Government of Ecuador announced a 30-day state of emergency to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 virus (OSAC, 22.12.2020).

    International Restrictions: Entry rules in response to coronavirus (COVID-19).
    *Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed.
    As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you to contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.
    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, all passengers will be required to sign a declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 10 days prior to their arrival in the country. This is a mandatory requirement, which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board. You should arrange to take a private test.
    In countries where the PCR tests are not available, passengers must agree to take a COVID-19 test at the airport in Ecuador on arrival, at their expense. Airline crew members are exempt from the PCR test requirement. Antigen tests (rapid test) will be randomly carried out, by the Ministry of Health (MSP), on passengers arriving in Ecuador by air, sea or land. This test will be provided by the MSP. As of 13 January 2021, the only passengers officially exempted from the random rapid tests are airline crew members and children under 14 years old.
    If you test positive in the antigen test, you will need to self-isolate for 10 days. Non-residents of Ecuador will have to self-isolate in specific hotels as determined by the local authorities and at their own expense. Residents can isolate in their home. If on arrival a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, despite their antigen test result, they will be evaluated by a health care worker and if needed will be taken to the nearest health centre for a full evaluation.
    *Quarantine requirements: Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days. Self-isolation for non-residents must be carried out in specified hotels. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols
    that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only).
    If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Health website. The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    *Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands. Foreigners wishing to enter the islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 96 hours prior to the date of departure to the Galapagos islands. On arrival in Ecuador tourists may be requested to take another PCR test, at their own expense. Tourists must also present a return flight and a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’) issued by the Ministry of Tourism to be exempt from doing 14 days of self-isolation on the islands. The tour operators or hotels are responsible for arranging this safe passage document on behalf of tourists, given that visitors are required to have previous contracted travel and accommodation arrangements. The Galapagos Transit Control Card, will need to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. On arrival in Ecuador you will be required to fill in a Health Status Declaration, including a local address. Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists.
    If you have any queries regarding travel back to mainland Ecuador, you can contact the Galapagos authorities via email at galapagosresponder@gmail.com

    Internal Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Health also provides an information page. However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account.
    *Public spaces and services: Following the announcement of the end of the national state of emergency, as of 4 January 2021, curfew restrictions are no longer in place. Power to impose controls and tailor regulations is now devolved to local municipalities and to other competent authorities. (Please therefore check with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions.) A national public health emergency remains in place. The Ecuadorean Ministry of Health issued an emergency extension of 90 days on 11 December 2020. The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces.
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • all in-person classes are suspended. Classes will continue online until 28 February when blended classes (in-person and online) will be allowed to be proposed by schools on a pilot basis
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • public gatherings are prohibited
    • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app.
    authorized labs to undertake COVID-19 tests

    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders.
    • ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring. Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport and institutions, operations capacity of private businesses, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol consumption
    We recommend you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions
    (Spanish only).
    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    *Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times.
    All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities. Only people who work for certain vital sectors, such as health, food provision, financial and emergencies, will be allowed to circulate on the days which the vehicle’s number plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. You must present valid credentials or proof of emergency if stopped by a local authority. The Municipality can issue special
    safe passage
    documents     (“salvoconducto”) for private vehicles that can justify their need to circulate outside the “Hoy Circula” restrictions (passenger transfer to and from the airport, and medical appointments).
    Inter-provincial bus transport operation has been authorised by local municipalities, at 75% capacity, from/to bus terminals. Accredited tourist transport vehicles are not subject to any mobility restriction. As part of the Municipality´s regular monitoring of the pandemic situation, the Quito Metropolitan Emergency Operations Committee has issued new temporary restrictions that will be in force from 15 February to 31 March 2021.
    All public gatherings are suspended. Pubs, nightclubs and gyms are also closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, alcohol sales are only permitted between 6am and 10pm.
    Restaurants, cinemas and theatres can operate at 30% capacity, while public transport, bus terminals and interstate and tourist transport can operate at a maximum 50% capacity. Shopping centres can operate at 50% between 0800-2000.
    Family and social gatherings are limited to 10 people. Private vehicles will continue to circulate through the “Hoy Circula” system, between 6am and 8pm, as follows:
    Vehicles with number plates ending in the following numbers cannot circulate on these given days:
    Monday: 0, 1, 2, 3
    Tuesday: 2, 3, 4, 5
    Wednesday: 4, 5, 6, 7
    Thursday: 6, 7, 8, 9
    Friday: 8, 9, 0, 1
    Saturdays, Sundays and official public holidays: all vehicle number plates are allowed to circulate.
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers. Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    18.02.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news: On December 21, the Government of Ecuador announced a 30-day state of emergency to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 virus (OSAC, 22.12.2020).

    International Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Health also provides an information page. However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account.
    *Public spaces and services: Following the announcement of the end of the national state of emergency, as of 4 January 2021, curfew restrictions are no longer in place. Power to impose controls and tailor regulations is now devolved to local municipalities and to other competent authorities. (Please therefore check with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions.)
    A national public health emergency remains in place. The Ecuadorean Ministry of Health issued an emergency extension of 90 days on 11 December 2020. The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces.
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • all in-person classes are suspended. Classes will continue online until 18 January when blended classes (in-person and online) will be allowed to be proposed by schools on a pilot basis
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • public gatherings are prohibited
    the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app.
    • Authorized labs to undertake COVID-19 tests

    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders.
    • ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring.
    Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport and institutions, operations capacity of private businesses, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol consumption
    We recommend you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions
    (Spanish only). Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    *Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times. All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities.
    Only people who work for certain vital sectors, such as health, food provision, financial and emergencies, will be allowed to circulate on the days which the vehicle’s registration plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. You must present valid credentials or proof of emergency if stopped by a local authority. The Municipality can issue special safe passage documents
    (“salvoconducto”) for private vehicles that can justify their need to circulate outside the “Hoy Circula” restrictions (passenger transfer to and from the airport, and medical appointments).
    Inter-provincial bus transport operation has been authorised by local municipalities, at 75% capacity, from/to bus terminals. Accredited tourist transport vehicles are not subject to any mobility restriction.
    As part of the Municipality´s regular monitoring of the pandemic situation, the Quito Metropolitan Emergency Operations Committee has issued new temporary restrictions that will be in force from 22 January to 7 February 2021. All public gatherings are suspended. Pubs, nightclubs and gyms are also closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, alcohol sales are only permitted between 6am and 10pm.
    Restaurants, cinemas and theatres can operate at 30% capacity, while public transport, bus terminals and interstate and tourist transport can operate at a maximum 50% capacity. Shopping centres can operate at 50% between 0800-2000. Family and social gatherings are limited to 10 people. Private vehicles will continue to circulate through the “Hoy Circula” system as follows:
    Vehicles with licence plates ending with odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7 and 9) can circulate Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Vehicles with licence plates ending with even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8 and 0) can circulate Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Sundays and public holidays: all vehicle plate number numbers are allowed to circulate.From 22 January to 7 February 2021, no vehicles can circulate between 11pm and 4am.
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers. Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    10.02.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news: On December 21, the Government of Ecuador announced a 30-day state of emergency to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 virus (OSAC, 22.12.2020).

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador:
    All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed.
    As of 1 June 2020, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you to contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.
    *Testing / screening on arrival:
    Upon arrival, all passengers will be required to sign a declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 10 days prior to their arrival in the country. This is a mandatory requirement, which airlines are responsible for enforcing in order to allow passengers to board.
    In countries where the PCR tests are not available, passengers must agree to take a COVID-19 test at the airport in Ecuador on arrival, at their expense. Airline crew members are exempt from the PCR test requirement.
    Antigen tests (rapid test) will be randomly carried out, by the Ministry of Health (MSP), on passengers arriving in Ecuador by air, sea or land. This test will be provided by the MSP. As of 13 January 2021, the only passengers officially exempted from the random rapid tests are airline crew members and children under 14 years old.
    If you test positive in the antigen test, you will need to self-isolate for 10 days. Non-residents of Ecuador will have to self-isolate in specific hotels as determined by the local authorities and at their own expense. Residents can isolate in their home.
    If on arrival a passenger presents COVID-19 related symptoms, despite their antigen test result, they will be evaluated by a health care worker and if needed will be taken to the nearest health centre for a full evaluation.
    *Quarantine requirements:
    Passengers who test positive in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 10 days. Self-isolation for non-residents must be carried out in specified hotels. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows for direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only).
    If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Health website.
    The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    *Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resumed on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands. Foreigners wishing to enter the islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 96 hours prior to the date of departure to the Galapagos islands. On arrival in Ecuador tourists may be requested to take another PCR test, at their own expense. Tourists must also present a return flight and a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’) issued by the Ministry of Tourism to be exempt from doing 14 days of self-isolation on the islands. The tour operators or hotels are responsible for arranging this safe passage document on behalf of tourists, given that visitors are required to have previous contracted travel and accommodation arrangements. The Galapagos Transit Control Card, will need to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. On arrival in Ecuador you will be required to fill in a Health Status Declaration, including a local address. Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists. If you have any queries regarding travel back to mainland Ecuador, you can contact the Galapagos authorities via email at galapagosresponder@gmail.com

    Internal Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Health also provides an information page. However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account.
    *Public spaces and services: Following the announcement of the end of the national state of emergency, as of 4 January 2021, curfew restrictions are no longer in place. Power to impose controls and tailor regulations is now devolved to local municipalities and to other competent authorities. (Please therefore check with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions.) A national public health emergency remains in place. The Ecuadorean Ministry of Health issued an emergency extension of 90 days on 11 December 2020. The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19;
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces;
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing;
    • all in-person classes are suspended. Classes will continue online until 18 January when blended classes (in-person and online) will be allowed to be proposed by schools on a pilot basis;
    • remote working continues to be encouraged;
    • public gatherings are prohibited;
    • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app;
    • authorised labs to undertake COVID-19 tests ;
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users;
    • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders;
    • ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed.
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring. Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport and institutions, operations capacity of private businesses, the circulation of private vehicles against license plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol consumption We recommend you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time: Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos. Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only). Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    *Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times. All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the relevant competent authorities. Only people who work for certain vital sectors, such as health, food provision, financial and emergencies, will be allowed to circulate on the days which the vehicle’s registration plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. You must present valid credentials or proof of emergency if stopped by a local authority. The Municipality can issue special safe passage documents (“salvoconducto”) for private vehicles that can justify their need to circulate outside the “Hoy Circula” restrictions (passenger transfer to and from the airport, and medical appointments). Inter-provincial bus transport operation has been authorised by local municipalities, at 75% capacity, from/to bus terminals. Accredited tourist transport vehicles are not subject to any mobility restriction. As part of the Municipality´s regular monitoring of the pandemic situation, the Quito Metropolitan Emergency Operations Committee has issued new temporary restrictions that will be in force from 22 January to 7 February 2021. All public gatherings are suspended. Pubs, nightclubs and gyms are also closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, alcohol sales are only permitted between 6am and 10pm. Restaurants, cinemas and theatres can operate at 30% capacity, while public transport, bus terminals and interstate and tourist transport can operate at a maximum 50% capacity. Shopping centres can operate at 50% between 0800-2000. Family and social gatherings are limited to 10 people. Private vehicles will continue to circulate through the “Hoy Circula” system as follows: Vehicles with licence plates ending with odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7 and 9) can circulate Monday, Wednesday and Friday; Vehicles with licence plates ending with even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8 and 0) can circulate Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday; Sundays and public holidays: all vehicle plate number numbers are allowed to circulate; From 22 January to 7 February 2021, no vehicles can circulate between 11pm and 4am. Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers. Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    22.01.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news: On December 21, the Government of Ecuador announced a 30-day state of emergency to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 virus (OSAC, 22.12.2020).

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed. As of 1 June, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you to contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.

    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, passengers will be required to sign a declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 10 days prior to their arrival in the country. In countries where the PCR tests are not available, passengers must agree to take a COVID-19 test at the airport in Ecuador on arrival.
    As of 22 December, all travellers arriving from the UK, Australia, South Africa and the EU will also be required to take an antigen test (rapid test) on arrival at the airport. Travellers from these countries will have to carry out obligatory self-isolation for 5 days. Non-residents of Ecuador will have to self-isolate in specific hotels as determined by the local authorities and at their own expense. Residents can isolate in their home.

    *Quarantine requirements: All passengers who arrive with a negative PCR test result will be required to carry out self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO). Passengers who test negative in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 5 days, if the antigen test is positive the isolation period will be at least 10 days. Self-isolation for non-residents will be for at least 10 days at their own expense, in specified hotels. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only). If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility website. The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.

    *Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resume on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands. Foreigners wishing to enter the islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 96 hours prior to the date of departure to Ecuador. On arrival in Ecuador tourists may be rgequested to take another PCR test, at their own expense. Tourists must also present a return flight and a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’) issued by the Ministry of Tourism to be exempt from doing 14 days of self-isolation on the islands. The tour operators or hotels are responsible for arranging this safe passage document on behalf of tourists, given that visitors are required to have previous contracted travel and accommodation arrangements. The Galapagos Transit Control Card, will need to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. On arrival in Ecuador you will be required to fill in a Health Status Declaration, including a local address. Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists. If you are in the Galapagos, the authorities have issued a Whatsapp group invitation for people to get information on flight opportunities to leave the islands, which can be accessed here. Authorities are aware that the groups have a limited capacity, so please keep trying. If you have any queries regarding travel back to mainland Ecuador, you can contact the Galapagos authorities via email at galapagosresponder@gmail.com.

    Internal Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Health also provides an information page. However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account.
    *Public spaces and services: Following the announcement of the end of the national state of emergency, as of 4 January 2021, curfew restrictions are no longer in place. Power to impose controls and tailor regulations is now devolved to local municipalities and to other competent authorities. (Please therefore check with local authorities – details below – to ensure that you comply with any local restrictions.) A national public health emergency remains in place. The Ecuadorean Ministry of Health issued an emergency extension of 90 days on 11 December 2020. The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19;
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces;
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing;
    • all in-person classes are suspended. Classes will continue online until 18 January when blended classes (in-person and online) will be allowed to be proposed by schools on a pilot basis;
    • remote working continues to be encouraged;
    • public gatherings are prohibited;
    • the reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored via the “Distancia2” app;
    • authorized labs to undertake COVID-19 tests;
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users;
    • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador via the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders;
    • ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring. Each municipal government is responsible for determining its own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport and institutions, operations capacity of private businesses, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol consumption. We recommend you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time: Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos; Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only). Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    *Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must also carry an identity card at all times. Only people who work for certain vital sectors, such as health, food provision, financial and emergencies, will be allowed to circulate on the days which the vehicle’s registration plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. You must present valid credentials or proof of emergency if stopped by a local authority. The Municipality can issue special safe passage documents (“salvoconducto”) for private vehicles that can justify their need to circulate outside the “Hoy Circula” restrictions (passenger transfer to and from the airport, and medical appointments). Inter-provincial bus transport operation has been authorised by local municipalities, at 75% capacity, from/to bus terminals. Accredited tourist transport vehicles are not subject to any mobility restriction. All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be hand led by the related competent authorities. All public gatherings are suspended. Pubs, nightclubs and gyms are also closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily. Restaurants, cinemas and theatres can operate at 30% capacity, while public transport, bus terminals and interstate and tourist transport can operate at a maximum 50% capacity. Shopping centres can operate at 50% between 0800-2000. Family and social gatherings are limited to 10 people. Private vehicles will continue to circulate through the “Hoy Circula” system as follows:
    Vehicles with licence plates ending with odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7 and 9) can circulate Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Vehicles with licence plates ending with even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8 and 0) can circulate Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Sundays: all vehicle plate number numbers are allowed to circulate.
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers. Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    05.01.2021

  • Ecuador Latest news: On December 21, the Government of Ecuador announced a 30-day state of emergency to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 virus (OSAC, 22.12.2020).

    International Restrictions:
    *Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed. As of 1 June, international commercial flights have resumed operations to and from Ecuador. However, following the identification of a new variant of Coronavirus, we highly recommend you to contact your airline/travel company to check your travel itinerary.

    *Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, passengers will be required to sign a declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 10 days prior to their arrival in the country. In countries where the PCR tests are not available, passengers must agree to take a COVID-19 test at the airport in Ecuador on arrival.
    As of 22 December, all travellers arriving from the UK, Australia, South Africa and the EU will also be required to take an antigen test (rapid test) on arrival at the airport. Travellers from these countries will have to carry out obligatory self-isolation for 5 days. Non-residents of Ecuador will have to self-isolate in specific hotels as determined by the local authorities and at their own expense. Residents can isolate in their home.

    *Quarantine requirements: All passengers who arrive with a negative PCR test result will be required to carry out self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO). Passengers who test negative in the antigen test taken at the airport will need to self-isolate for 5 days, if the antigen test is positive the isolation period will be at least 10 days. Self-isolation for non-residents will be for at least 10 days at their own expense, in specified hotels. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only). If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility website. The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.

    *Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resume on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands. Foreigners wishing to enter the islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 96 hours prior to the date of departure to Ecuador. On arrival in Ecuador tourists may be rgequested to take another PCR test, at their own expense. Tourists must also present a return flight and a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’) issued by the Ministry of Tourism to be exempt from doing 14 days of self-isolation on the islands. The tour operators or hotels are responsible for arranging this safe passage document on behalf of tourists, given that visitors are required to have previous contracted travel and accommodation arrangements. The Galapagos Transit Control Card, will need to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. On arrival in Ecuador you will be required to fill in a Health Status Declaration, including a local address. Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists. If you are in the Galapagos, the authorities have issued a Whatsapp group invitation for people to get information on flight opportunities to leave the islands, which can be accessed here. Authorities are aware that the groups have a limited capacity, so please keep trying. If you have any queries regarding travel back to mainland Ecuador, you can contact the Galapagos authorities via email at galapagosresponder@gmail.com.

    Internal Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the hereCoronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Health also provides an hereinformation page. However, the most up to date information is accessible via their hereTwitter account.
    *Public spaces and services: On 21 December, President Moreno declared a national state of emergency, for 30 days.
    With effect from midnight on 21 December, there will be a strict nationwide curfew (restricting movement from 22.00 – 04.00) and a prohibition of alcohol consumption for 15 days. Ecuador´s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) will continue to operate nationwide to review the COVID-19 situation.
    A national public health emergency remains in place. The Ecuadorean Ministry of Health issued an emergency extension of 90 days on 11 December 2020. The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces.
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • schools at all levels and universities remain closed nationwide. Classes will be delivered online
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • public gatherings are prohibited
    • authorised labs to undertake COVID-19 tests
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuadorvia the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders.
    • Ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring.
    We recommend you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only).
    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    You can apply online for a safe passage certificate (‘salvo conducto’) if you need to move in a private vehicle (for example to a doctor’s appointment) on days on which your registration plate would not normally be permitted to circulate.
    Inter-provincial bus transport operation has been authorised by local municipalities, at 75% capacity, from/to bus terminals. Accredited tourist transport vehicles are not subject to any mobility restriction.
    All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the related competent authorities.
    In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must carry an identity card at all times. All public gatherings are suspended. Pubs, nightclubs and gyms are also closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily.
    Restaurants, cinemas and theatres can operate at 30% capacity, while public transport, bus terminals and interstate and tourist transport can operate at a maximum 50% capacity. Shopping centres can operate at 50% between 0800-2000.
    Family and social gatherings are limited to 10 people.
    The reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored through the “Distancia2” app. Beaches will be closed on 24, 25 and 31 December, and 1 January.
    Private vehicles will continue to circulate through the “Hoy Circula” system as follows:
    Vehicles with licence plates ending with odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7 and 9) can circulate Monday, Wednesday and Friday and on Sunday 27 December
    Vehicles with licence plates ending with even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8 and 0) can circulate Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday and Sunday 3 January.
    You can apply online for a safe passage certificate (‘salvo conducto’) if you need to move in a private vehicle (for example to a doctor’s appointment) on a day which your registration plate would not normally allow you to circulate.
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers.
    Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    22.12.2020

  • Ecuador International Restrictions:
    Commercial flights are operating to and from Ecuador. Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed. As of 1 June, international commercial flights resumed limited operations. The restriction on international arrivals has been lifted.

    Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, passengers will be required to sign a declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 10 days prior their arrival to the country. You should arrange to take a private test. In countries where the PCR tests are not available, passengers must agree to take a COVID-19 test at the airport in Ecuador on arrival.

    Quarantine requirements: All passengers who arrive with a negative PCR test result will no longer be required to carry out self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO). For those who do not present a negative PCR test result on arrival, they will need to carry out self-isolation for 10 days at their own expense, in hotels or private accommodation. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only). If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility website. The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.

    Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resume on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands. Foreigners wishing to enter the islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 96 hours prior to the date of departure to Ecuador. On arrival in Ecuador tourists may be rgequested to take another PCR test, at their own expense. Tourists must also present a return flight and a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’) issued by the Ministry of Tourism to be exempt from doing 14 days of self-isolation on the islands. The tour operators or hotels are responsible for arranging this safe passage document on behalf of tourists, given that visitors are required to have previous contracted travel and accommodation arrangements. The Galapagos Transit Control Card, will need to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. On arrival in Ecuador you will be required to fill in a Health Status Declaration, including a local address. Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists. If you are in the Galapagos, the authorities have issued a Whatsapp group invitation for people to get information on flight opportunities to leave the islands, which can be accessed here. Authorities are aware that the groups have a limited capacity, so please keep trying. If you have any queries regarding travel back to mainland Ecuador, you can contact the Galapagos authorities via email at galapagosresponder@gmail.com

    Internal Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the hereCoronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Health also provides an hereinformation page. However, the most up to date information is accessible via their hereTwitter account.
    *Public spaces and services: On 21 December, President Moreno declared a national state of emergency, for 30 days.
    With effect from midnight on 21 December, there will be a strict nationwide curfew (restricting movement from 22.00 – 04.00) and a prohibition of alcohol consumption for 15 days. Ecuador´s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) will continue to operate nationwide to review the COVID-19 situation.
    A national public health emergency remains in place. The Ecuadorean Ministry of Health issued an emergency extension of 90 days on 11 December 2020. The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces.
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • schools at all levels and universities remain closed nationwide. Classes will be delivered online
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • public gatherings are prohibited
    • authorised labs to undertake COVID-19 tests
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuadorvia the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders.
    • Ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed
    *Restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring.
    We recommend you follow the local municipalities’ social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only).
    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    You can apply online for a safe passage certificate (‘salvo conducto’) if you need to move in a private vehicle (for example to a doctor’s appointment) on days on which your registration plate would not normally be permitted to circulate.
    Inter-provincial bus transport operation has been authorised by local municipalities, at 75% capacity, from/to bus terminals. Accredited tourist transport vehicles are not subject to any mobility restriction.
    All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the related competent authorities.
    In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must carry an identity card at all times. All public gatherings are suspended. Pubs, nightclubs and gyms are also closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily.
    Restaurants, cinemas and theatres can operate at 30% capacity, while public transport, bus terminals and interstate and tourist transport can operate at a maximum 50% capacity. Shopping centres can operate at 50% between 0800-2000.
    Family and social gatherings are limited to 10 people.
    The reopening of beaches will continue to be monitored through the “Distancia2” app. Beaches will be closed on 24, 25 and 31 December, and 1 January.
    Private vehicles will continue to circulate through the “Hoy Circula” system as follows:
    Vehicles with licence plates ending with odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7 and 9) can circulate Monday, Wednesday and Friday and on Sunday 27 December
    Vehicles with licence plates ending with even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8 and 0) can circulate Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday and Sunday 3 January.
    You can apply online for a safe passage certificate (‘salvo conducto’) if you need to move in a private vehicle (for example to a doctor’s appointment) on a day which your registration plate would not normally allow you to circulate.
    Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers.
    Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    21.12.2020

  • Ecuador International Restrictions:
    Commercial flights are operating to and from Ecuador. Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed. As of 1 June, international commercial flights resumed limited operations. The restriction on international arrivals has been lifted.

    Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, passengers will be required to sign a declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 10 days prior their arrival to the country. You should arrange to take a private test. In countries where the PCR tests are not available, passengers must agree to take a COVID-19 test at the airport in Ecuador on arrival.

    Quarantine requirements: All passengers who arrive with a negative PCR test result will no longer be required to carry out self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO). For those who do not present a negative PCR test result on arrival, they will need to carry out self-isolation for 10 days at their own expense, in hotels or private accommodation. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only). If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility website. The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.

    Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resume on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands. Foreigners wishing to enter the islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 96 hours prior to the date of departure to Ecuador. On arrival in Ecuador tourists may be rgequested to take another PCR test, at their own expense. Tourists must also present a return flight and a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’) issued by the Ministry of Tourism to be exempt from doing 14 days of self-isolation on the islands. The tour operators or hotels are responsible for arranging this safe passage document on behalf of tourists, given that visitors are required to have previous contracted travel and accommodation arrangements. The Galapagos Transit Control Card, will need to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. On arrival in Ecuador you will be required to fill in a Health Status Declaration, including a local address. Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists. If you are in the Galapagos, the authorities have issued a Whatsapp group invitation for people to get information on flight opportunities to leave the islands, which can be accessed here. Authorities are aware that the groups have a limited capacity, so please keep trying. If you have any queries regarding travel back to mainland Ecuador, you can contact the Galapagos authorities via email at galapagosresponder@gmail.com

    Internal Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador: The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Health also provides an information page. However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account.
    *Public spaces and services: Following the end of a national state of emergency, as of 13 September, curfew restrictions are no longer in place. Power to impose controls and tailor regulations is now devolved to local municipalities and to other competent authorities (amongst others, health, transport and education). Ecuador´s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) will continue to operate nationwide to review the COVID-19 situation. A national public health emergency remains in place. The Ecuadorean Ministry of Health issued an emergency extension of 90 days (Acuerdo 57) on 13 September 2020. The general nationwide biosecurity measures include: • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19; • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces; • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing; • schools at all levels and universities remain closed nationwide. Classes will be delivered online; • remote working continues to be encouraged; • public gatherings are prohibited; • authorized labs to undertake COVID-19 tests; • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users; • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuadorvia the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders; • Ports remain closed for travel/tourism activities. Only cargo services are allowed.
    *New phase of restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring. Each municipal government is responsible for determining their own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport and institutions, operations capacity of private businesses, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol consumption. You can follow their social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time: Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only). Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements. You can here apply online for a safe passage certificate (‘salvo conducto’) if you need to move in a private vehicle (for example to a doctor’s appointment) on days on which your registration plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. Inter-provincial bus transport operation has been authorised by local municipalities, at 75% capacity, from/to bus terminals. Accredited tourist transport vehicles are not subject to any mobility restriction. The reopening of beaches will continue to be monitoring through the “Distancia2” app
    All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the related competent authorities.
    *Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must carry an identity card at all times. All public gatherings are suspended. Pubs, nightclubs and gyms are also closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily. Shops, supermarkets, restaurants and banks can operate at 50% capacity; cinemas and theatres at 30% capacity; and the municipality´s public transport, bus terminals and interstate and tourist transport can operate at a maximum 50% capacity. Private vehicles will continue to circulate through the “Hoy Circula” system as follows: Vehicles with licence plates ending with odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7 and 9) can circulate Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Vehicles with licence plates ending with even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8 and 0) can circulate Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. All vehicles can circulate on Sundays. The Municipality can issue special safe passage documents (“salvoconducto”) for private vehicles which can justify their need to circulate outside the “Hoy Circula” restrictions. Infringements to any of the above restrictions will be handled by Quito´s local government. Visit the Quito “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport website for details on their COVID-19 protocols and health measures for passengers. Visit the Guayaquil “Jose Joaquin de Olmedo” International Airport website for general information on COVID-19 measures and related FAQ (in Spanish).

    Read more
    07.12.2020

  • Ecuador International Restrictions:
    Commercial flights are operating to and from Ecuador. Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed. As of 1 June, international commercial flights resumed limited operations. The restriction on international arrivals has been lifted.

    Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, passengers will be required to sign a declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 10 days prior their arrival to the country. You should arrange to take a private test. In countries where the PCR tests are not available, passengers must agree to take a COVID-19 test at the airport in Ecuador on arrival.

    Quarantine requirements: All passengers who arrive with a negative PCR test result will no longer be required to carry out self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO). For those who do not present a negative PCR test result on arrival, they will need to carry out self-isolation for 10 days at their own expense, in hotels or private accommodation. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only). If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility website. The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.

    Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resume on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands. Foreigners wishing to enter the islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 96 hours prior to the date of departure to Ecuador. On arrival in Ecuador tourists may be rgequested to take another PCR test, at their own expense. Tourists must also present a return flight and a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’) issued by the Ministry of Tourism to be exempt from doing 14 days of self-isolation on the islands. The tour operators or hotels are responsible for arranging this safe passage document on behalf of tourists, given that visitors are required to have previous contracted travel and accommodation arrangements. The Galapagos Transit Control Card, will need to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. On arrival in Ecuador you will be required to fill in a Health Status Declaration, including a local address. Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists. If you are in the Galapagos, the authorities have issued a Whatsapp group invitation for people to get information on flight opportunities to leave the islands, which can be accessed here. Authorities are aware that the groups have a limited capacity, so please keep trying. If you have any queries regarding travel back to mainland Ecuador, you can contact the Galapagos authorities via email at galapagosresponder@gmail.com

    Internal Restrictions:
    *Travel in Ecuador
    The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Health also provides an information page. However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account.

    *Public spaces and services: Following the end of a national state of emergency, as of 13 September, curfew restrictions are no longer in place. Power to impose controls and tailor regulations is now devolved to local municipalities and to other competent authorities (amongst others, health, transport and education). Ecuador´s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) will continue to operate nationwide to review the COVID-19 situation. A national public health emergency remains in place. The Ecuadorean Ministry of Health issued an emergency extension of 90 days (Acuerdo 57) on 13 September 2020. The general nationwide biosecurity measures include:
    • extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19
    • mandatory use of face masks in public spaces.
    • all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing
    • schools at all levels and universities remain closed nationwide. Classes will be delivered online
    • remote working continues to be encouraged
    • public gatherings are prohibited
    • authorized labs to undertake COVID-19 tests
    • a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users
    • land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuadorvia the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders.

    *New phase of restrictions:
    The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring.
    Each municipal government is responsible for determining their own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport and institutions, operations capacity of private businesses, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol consumption. You can follow their social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos
    Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only).
    Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements.
    You can apply online for a safe passage certificate (‘salvo conducto’) if you need to move in a private vehicle (for example to a doctor’s appointment) on days on which your registration plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. Certificates formerly obtained from the Ministries of Interior and Foreign Affairs can be validated until 31 October 2020.
    Inter-provincial bus transport operation has been authorised by local municipalities, at 75% capacity, from/to bus terminals. Accredited tourist transport vehicles are not subject to any mobility restriction.
    The reopening of beaches will continue to be monitoring through the “Distancia2” app
    All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the related competent authorities.
    *Restrictions in Quito
    Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage.
    In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must carry an identity card at all times. All public gatherings are suspended. Pubs, nightclubs and gyms are also closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily.
    Shops, supermarkets, restaurants and banks can operate at 50% capacity; cinemas and theatres at 30% capacity; and the municipality´s public transport, bus terminals and interstate and tourist transport can operate at a maximum 50% capacity.
    Private vehicles will continue to circulate through the “Hoy Circula” system as follows:
    Vehicles with licence plates ending with odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7 and 9) can circulate Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
    Vehicles with licence plates ending with even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8 and 0) can circulate Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
    All vehicles can circulate on Sundays.
    The Municipality can issue special safe passage documents (“salvoconducto”) for private vehicles which can justify their need to circulate outside the “Hoy Circula” restrictions. There will be an interim period for private vehicles with former special safe passage documents, issued by the central transport authority, to use and replace them with the Municipality documents by 31 October 2020.
    Infringements to any of the above restrictions will be handled by Quito´s local government.

    Read more
    30.09.2020

  • Ecuador International Restrictions:
    Entry to Ecuador: All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuador, via Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders. All ports remain closed. As of 1 June, international commercial flights resumed limited operations. The restriction on international arrivals has been lifted.

    Testing / screening on arrival: Upon arrival, passengers will be required to sign a declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 10 days prior their arrival to the country. You should not use the NHS testing service to get a test in order to facilitate your travel to another country. You should arrange to take a private test. In countries where the PCR tests are not available, passengers must agree to take a COVID-19 test at the airport in Ecuador on arrival.

    Quarantine requirements: All passengers who arrive with a negative PCR test result will no longer be required to carry out self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO). For those who do not present a negative PCR test result on arrival, they will need to carry out self-isolation for 10 days at their own expense, in hotels or private accommodation. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes.
    The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only). If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility website. The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.

    Travel to and from the Galapagos: From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resume on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands. Foreigners wishing to enter the islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 96 hours prior to the date of departure to Ecuador. On arrival in Ecuador tourists may be rgequested to take another PCR test, at their own expense. Tourists must also present a return flight and a safe passage document (‘salvoconducto’) issued by the Ministry of Tourism to be exempt from doing 14 days of self-isolation on the islands. The tour operators or hotels are responsible for arranging this safe passage document on behalf of tourists, given that visitors are required to have previous contracted travel and accommodation arrangements. The Galapagos Transit Control Card, will need to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. On arrival in Ecuador you will be required to fill in a Health Status Declaration, including a local address. Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists. If you are in the Galapagos, the authorities have issued a Whatsapp group invitation for people to get information on flight opportunities to leave the islands, which can be accessed here. Authorities are aware that the groups have a limited capacity, so please keep trying. If you have any queries regarding travel back to mainland Ecuador, you can contact the Galapagos authorities via email at galapagosresponder@gmail.com

    Internal Restrictions:
    The Ecuadorean government provides coronavirus-related information on the Coronavirus Ecuador website. The Ministry of Health also provides an information page. However, the most up to date information is accessible via their Twitter account.

    Following the end of a national state of emergency, as of 13 September, curfew restrictions are no longer in place. Power to impose controls and tailor regulations is now devolved to local municipalities and to other competent authorities (amongst others, health, transport and education). Ecuador´s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) will continue to operate nationwide to review the COVID-19 situation. A national public health emergency remains in place. The Ecuadorean Ministry of Health issued an emergency extension of 90 days (Acuerdo 57) on 13 September 2020. The general nationwide biosecurity measures include: extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and those whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19; mandatory use of face masks in public spaces; all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing; schools at all levels and universities remain closed nationwide. Classes will be delivered online; remote working continues to be encouraged; public gatherings are prohibited; authorised labs to undertake COVID-19 tests; a nationwide tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ) is available to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users; land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. However, Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents may be allowed to enter Ecuadorvia the Rumichaca and Huaquillas northern and southern borders.

    **New phase of restrictions: The central government´s “red, amber, green” alert system is no longer in force. However, it will be used as an internal management tool for epidemiological monitoring; Each municipal government is responsible for determining their own specific restrictions including, but not limited to, maximum capacity for public transport and institutions, operations capacity of private businesses, the circulation of private vehicles against licence plate numbers, health prevention protocols for all businesses and industries and alcohol consumption. You can follow their social media channels to obtain the most up to date notifications, but bear in mind that these might change at any time:
    Quito: @MunicipioQuito; Guayaquil: @alcaldiagye; Cuenca: @MunicipioCuenca; Galapagos: @CGGalapagos; Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) has a website with their official resolutions (Spanish only). Within the national health emergency, the Ecuadorean Ministry of Health will continue to issue the required health prevention measures, including PCR tests and any mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) requirements. You can apply online for a safe passage certificate (‘salvo conducto’) if you need to move in a private vehicle (for example to a doctor’s appointment) on days on which your registration plate would not normally be permitted to circulate. Certificates formerly obtained from the Ministries of Interior and Foreign Affairs can be validated until 31 October 2020. Inter-provincial bus transport operation has been authorised by local municipalities, at 75% capacity, from/to bus terminals. Accredited tourist transport vehicles are not subject to any mobility restriction. The reopening of beaches will continue to be monitoring through the “Distancia2” app. All COVID-19 measures will continue to be enforced robustly and infringements will be handled by the related competent authorities.

    **Restrictions in Quito: Quito Municipality continues with its campaign to increase testing and triage. In addition to adhering to the standard general biosecurity measures, you must carry an identity card at all times. All public gatherings are suspended. Pubs, nightclubs and gyms are also closed until further notice. All sport activities that cannot comply with the minimum distancing requirements are also suspended temporarily. Shops, supermarkets, restaurants and banks can operate at 50% capacity; cinemas and theatres at 30% capacity; and the municipality´s public transport, bus terminals and interstate and tourist transport can operate at a maximum 50% capacity. Private cars will be allowed to circulate through the “Hoy Circula” system, as follows: During odd months (January, March, May, July, September and November): Monday, Wednesday and Friday: vehicles with licence plates ending in odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7 and 9); Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday: vehicles with licence plates ending in even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8 and 0); Sundays: All vehicle plate numbers. During even months: (February, April, June, August, October and December): Monday, Wednesday and Friday: vehicles with licence plates ending in ending in even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8 and 0); Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday: vehicles with licence plates ending in odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7 and 9); Sundays: All vehicle plate numbers. The Municipality can issue special safe passage documents (“salvoconducto”) for private vehicles which can justify their need to circulate outside the “Hoy Circula” restrictions. There will be an interim period for private vehicles with former special safe passage documents, issued by the central transport authority, to use and replace them with the Municipality documents by 31 October 2020. Infringements to any of the above restrictions will be handled by Quito´s local government.

    Read more
    22.09.2020

  • Ecuador *****International Restrictions:
    All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. As of 1 June, international commercial flights resumed limited operations. The restriction on international arrivals has also been lifted. Upon arrival, passengers will be required to sign a declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 96 hours prior to departure. In countries where the PCR tests are not available, passengers must agree to take a COVID-19 test at the airport in Ecuador on arrival. All passengers who arrive with a negative PCR test result will no longer be required to carry out self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO). For those who do not present a negative PCR test result on arrival, they will need to carry out self-isolation for 14 days at their own expense, in hotels or private accommodation. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes. The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols see here that also allows direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only). The Government is monitoring the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.

    *****

    Internal restrictions:

    As of 13 September, curfew restrictions are no longer in place. Power to impose controls and tailor regulations is now devolved to local municipalities and to other competent authorities (amongst others, health, transport and education). Ecuador´s National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) will continue to operate nationwide to review the COVID-19 situation.
    From 1 July, tourist activities are allowed in the Galapagos Islands. Commercial flights connecting the Islands resume on 3 August. The local authorities have created a ‘safe travel corridor’ for travel to the Galapagos Islands.
    Foreigners wishing to enter the islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 96 hours prior to the date of departure to Ecuador.
    As of 4 May, the Government introduced a new phase of “social distancing” to loosen up restrictions progressively according to the situation in each canton. The system has three levels: red, amber and green. On 14 August, President Moreno renewed the state of emergency for a further 30 days. It will now remain in force until 12 September. This includes general nationwide measures such as: self-isolation and extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and people whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19; mandatory use of face masks in public spaces. Fines will be given to those who do not comply. Each city will define the cost of the fine; strong recommendation for all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing; pubs, nightclubs and children playgrounds remain closed; schools at all levels and universities remain closed nationwide. Classes will be delivered online; all public gatherings are prohibited; physical activities in closed spaces will be limited to those Green-rated cantons. Outdoor activities are allowed if they comply with local social distancing measures approved by each canton; from 5 August, some beaches will reopen and will be monitored through the “Distancia2” app; tourist transport operators (vehicles and boats) will be allowed to provide their services in Amber and Green level cities. Other transport services (door to door) remain forbidden; inter-provincial travel by private car is permitted between Amber and Green level cities
    inter-provincial travel is allowed between Amber and Green level cities and where local governments have agreed to open bus terminals; passengers travelling on domestic flights between Quito and Guayaquil must present a negative COVID-19 test. The authorities will accept antibody tests (“quick tests”) and Polymerase Chain Reaction tests (PCR) taken at laboratories approved by the Ministry of Health.
    PCR tests will be valid if taken up to 72 hours prior to departure and quick tests within 24 hours. Tests can be taken at airports. This measure will run until 21 August. From then on, random tests will be carried out
    passengers who have completed mandatory self-isolation (APO) at authorised hotels/temporary accommodation, are no longer required to have a COVID-19 test for domestic flights, just to present their APO certificate issued by the Ministry of Health; inter-provincial package deliveries are allowed; all businesses and industries must prepare a health prevention protocol to address COVID-19; there are labs authorised to undertake COVID-19 tests; A tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ), to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days, has now been launched nationwide. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users; The Government has emphasised that measures will be enforced robustly and infringements will be sanctioned. You should ensure you comply, including with self-isolation measures. Check specific details on self-isolation (Spanish only). Quito Municipality has launched a new campaign to increase testing and triage.
    New phase of restrictions by municipality: The Government has updated the measures applied under each level of the “red, amber, green” system with effect from 1 July. These measures apply nationwide with the exception of Quito, where stricter measures remain in place. Each municipal government is responsible for determining whether they move from one stage to the next. You can find an interactive map showing the colour of each city through this online tool here . Municipalities can implement additional measures to those stated below.
    Several municipalities have now moved to the “amber” level. Guayaquil began this phase on 20 May and Quito on 3 June. There is a special regime for some “amber level” provinces.
    **Red: Municipalities in “red” will apply the following measures: curfew restricting all movement from 6pm to 5am; transactions to buy food and other products are authorised to be carried out online, through telephone and by home delivery, from 7am to 10pm; travel within the province is not allowed; safe passages are required to operate during curfew hours (work and justified travel); medical attention is authorised with an appointment, including surgery; remote working is still in force; workers are allowed to return to their offices in the public and private sectors (up to 30% staff capacity); shops are allowed to open (up to 30% staff capacity); social gatherings, public or private, are forbidden; Private cars can only circulate twice a week. Circulation of private vehicles applies as follows: Monday: licence plates ending in 1, 2, 3 and 7; Tuesday: licence plates ending in 3, 4, 5 and 8; Wednesday: licence plates ending in 4, 5, 6 and 9; Thursday: licence plates ending in 6, 7, 8 and 0; Friday: licence plates ending in 1, 2, 9, and 0; no private car is allowed to circulate on Saturday and Sunday; taxis can circulate against the licence plate number on Saturday and with no restriction on Sunday.
    **Amber: Municipalities in “amber” will apply the following measures: Curfew restricting all movement applies from 11pm to 5am. Except for Pichincha, Carchi, Imbabura, Cotopaxi, Bolivar, Tungurahua, Chimborazo, Cañar, Azuay, Loja, Santo Domingo Tsachilas, Esmeraldas, Morona Santiago, Zamora Chinchipe, Sucumbios, Orellana, Pastaza and Napo provinces (see below the special regime information for these provinces). shops and restaurants can reopen to the public with 50% capacity; funerals with up to 25 people are allowed; social gatherings and executive meetings with up to 25 people present are allowed, if social distancing measures can be guaranteed (2 metres between each person, no ventilation systems in place and other biosecurity measures); cinemas and theatres can reopen with a limited capacity of 30% (except for Quito); archaeological sites, zoos, museums and national parks will reopen with a limited capacity of 30%, except the Yasuni National Park; urban public transport, transport within the province and inter-provincial transport is allowed with 50% bus capacity. Destinations must be in the Amber and Green levels; closed pools will be able to reopen for training purposes, respecting bio security measures; public and private institutions will be allowed to operate to 50% of their total capacity. Remote working will be encouraged; all businesses and institutions must have a COVID-19 prevention protocol in place to prevent spread among clients and staff; doctors (in all fields) are allowed to receive patients with an appointment; Private cars will be able to circulate as follows: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: licence plates ending in odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7 and 9); Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays: licence plates ending in even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8 and 0); Sundays: On 2, 16 and 30 August licence plates ending in odd numbers. Sundays: On 5 September licence plates ending in even numbers. On 12 September licence plates ending in odd numbers; private cars can circulate between amber and amber or green provinces as long as they comply with the licence plate guidance above; taxis can circulate every day without any licence plate number restriction.
    **Green: Municipalities in “green” will apply the following measures: there is no curfew; restaurants and shops can reopen to the public with 50% of their capacity; urban bus or tram transport at 50% capacity; transport within the province is allowed if cantons are in the same level; travel between provinces is allowed if the local governments are in Amber or Green levels and have approved reopening the routes and bus terminals; a pilot plan to reopen gyms will begin; funerals with up to 25 people are allowed; social gatherings and business meetings with up to 25 people are allowed, if social distancing measures can be guaranteed (2 metres between each person, no ventilation systems in place and other biosecurity measures); pilot plan – authorised gyms can reinstate their activity in compliance of COVID-19 official prevention protocols; doctors from all fields are able to take in customers with appointments; Private cars will be able to circulate as follows: licence plates ending in 6, 8 and 0 will not be able to circulate on Mondays; licence plates ending in 5, 7 and 9 will not be able to circulate on Tuesdays; licence plates ending in 4 and 0 will not be able to circulate on Wednesdays; licence plates ending in 1, 3 and 9 will not be able to circulate on Thursdays; licence plates ending in 2, 6 and 8 will not be able to circulate on Fridays; licence plates ending in 1, 3 and 5 will not be able to circulate on Saturdays; licence plates ending in 2, 4, and 7 will not be able to circulate on Sundays; private cars can circulate between green and amber or green provinces as long as they comply with the licence plate guidance above.
    **Quito’s special regime: Social gatherings and business meetings are prohibited. Shops, restaurants, cinemas and theatres can operate at 30% capacity and 25% of civil servants will be allowed to return to their offices. Bus terminals for inter-provincial travel will resume their operations on 2 September, but with only 40% of their vehicles.
    Most hotels have reopened with a limited capacity and with strict protocols to prevent COVID-19 spread.

    Read more
    14.09.2020

  • Ecuador *****International Restrictions:
    All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. As of 1 June, international commercial flights resumed limited operations. The restriction on international arrivals has also been lifted. Upon arrival, passengers will be required to sign a declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 96 hours prior to departure. In countries where the PCR tests are not available, passengers must agree to take a COVID-19 test at the airport in Ecuador on arrival. All passengers who arrive with a negative PCR test result will no longer be required to carry out self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO). For those who do not present a negative PCR test result on arrival, they will need to carry out self-isolation for 14 days at their own expense, in hotels or private accommodation. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes. The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols [https://www.coronavirusecuador.com/] that also allows direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only). The Government is monitoring the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.

    *****

    Internal restrictions:

    As of 4 May, the Government introduced a new phase of “social distancing” to loosen up restrictions progressively according to the situation in each canton. The system has three levels: red, amber and green. On 14 August, President Moreno renewed the state of emergency for a further 30 days. It will now remain in force until 12 September. This includes general nationwide measures such as: self-isolation and extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and people whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19; mandatory use of face masks in public spaces. Fines will be given to those who do not comply. Each city will define the cost of the fine; strong recommendation for all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing; pubs, nightclubs and children playgrounds remain closed; schools at all levels and universities remain closed nationwide. Classes will be delivered online; all public gatherings are prohibited; physical activities in closed spaces will be limited to those Green-rated cantons. Outdoor activities are allowed if they comply with local social distancing measures approved by each canton; from 5 August, some beaches will reopen and will be monitored through the “Distancia2” app; tourist transport operators (vehicles and boats) will be allowed to provide their services in Amber and Green level cities. Other transport services (door to door) remain forbidden; inter-provincial travel by private car is permitted between Amber and Green level cities
    inter-provincial travel is allowed between Amber and Green level cities and where local governments have agreed to open bus terminals; passengers travelling on domestic flights between Quito and Guayaquil must present a negative COVID-19 test. The authorities will accept antibody tests (“quick tests”) and Polymerase Chain Reaction tests (PCR) taken at laboratories approved by the Ministry of Health. PCR tests will be valid if taken up to 72 hours prior to departure and quick tests within 24 hours. Tests can be taken at airports. This measure will run until 21 August. From then on, random tests will be carried out
    passengers who have completed mandatory self-isolation (APO) at authorised hotels/temporary accommodation, are no longer required to have a COVID-19 test for domestic flights, just to present their APO certificate issued by the Ministry of Health; inter-provincial package deliveries are allowed; all businesses and industries must prepare a health prevention protocol to address COVID-19; there are labs authorised to undertake COVID-19 tests; A tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ), to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days, has now been launched nationwide. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users; The Government has emphasised that measures will be enforced robustly and infringements will be sanctioned. You should ensure you comply, including with self-isolation measures. Check specific details on self-isolation (Spanish only). Quito Municipality has launched a new campaign to increase testing and triage.
    New phase of restrictions by municipality: The Government has updated the measures applied under each level of the “red, amber, green” system with effect from 1 July. These measures apply nationwide with the exception of Quito, where stricter measures remain in place. Each municipal government is responsible for determining whether they move from one stage to the next. You can find an interactive map showing the colour of each city through this online tool [https://srvportal.gestionderiesgos.gob.ec/portal/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=5ecd2baea7024774b72765fb764d3690]. Municipalities can implement additional measures to those stated below.
    Several municipalities have now moved to the “amber” level. Guayaquil began this phase on 20 May and Quito on 3 June. There is a special regime for some “amber level” provinces.
    **Red: Municipalities in “red” will apply the following measures: curfew restricting all movement from 6pm to 5am; transactions to buy food and other products are authorised to be carried out online, through telephone and by home delivery, from 7am to 10pm; travel within the province is not allowed; safe passages are required to operate during curfew hours (work and justified travel); medical attention is authorised with an appointment, including surgery; remote working is still in force; workers are allowed to return to their offices in the public and private sectors (up to 30% staff capacity); shops are allowed to open (up to 30% staff capacity); social gatherings, public or private, are forbidden; Private cars can only circulate twice a week. Circulation of private vehicles applies as follows: Monday: licence plates ending in 1, 2, 3 and 7; Tuesday: licence plates ending in 3, 4, 5 and 8; Wednesday: licence plates ending in 4, 5, 6 and 9; Thursday: licence plates ending in 6, 7, 8 and 0; Friday: licence plates ending in 1, 2, 9, and 0; no private car is allowed to circulate on Saturday and Sunday; taxis can circulate against the licence plate number on Saturday and with no restriction on Sunday.
    **Amber: Municipalities in “amber” will apply the following measures: Curfew restricting all movement applies from 11pm to 5am. Except for Pichincha, Carchi, Imbabura, Cotopaxi, Bolivar, Tungurahua, Chimborazo, Cañar, Azuay, Loja, Santo Domingo Tsachilas, Esmeraldas, Morona Santiago, Zamora Chinchipe, Sucumbios, Orellana, Pastaza and Napo provinces (see below the special regime information for these provinces). shops and restaurants can reopen to the public with 50% capacity; funerals with up to 25 people are allowed; social gatherings and executive meetings with up to 25 people present are allowed, if social distancing measures can be guaranteed (2 metres between each person, no ventilation systems in place and other biosecurity measures); cinemas and theatres can reopen with a limited capacity of 30% (except for Quito); archaeological sites, zoos, museums and national parks will reopen with a limited capacity of 30%, except the Yasuni National Park; urban public transport, transport within the province and inter-provincial transport is allowed with 50% bus capacity. Destinations must be in the Amber and Green levels; closed pools will be able to reopen for training purposes, respecting bio security measures; public and private institutions will be allowed to operate to 50% of their total capacity. Remote working will be encouraged; all businesses and institutions must have a COVID-19 prevention protocol in place to prevent spread among clients and staff; doctors (in all fields) are allowed to receive patients with an appointment; Private cars will be able to circulate as follows: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: licence plates ending in odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7 and 9); Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays: licence plates ending in even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8 and 0); Sundays: On 2, 16 and 30 August licence plates ending in odd numbers. Sundays: On 5 September licence plates ending in even numbers. On 12 September licence plates ending in odd numbers; private cars can circulate between amber and amber or green provinces as long as they comply with the licence plate guidance above; taxis can circulate every day without any licence plate number restriction.
    **Green: Municipalities in “green” will apply the following measures: there is no curfew; restaurants and shops can reopen to the public with 50% of their capacity; urban bus or tram transport at 50% capacity; transport within the province is allowed if cantons are in the same level; travel between provinces is allowed if the local governments are in Amber or Green levels and have approved reopening the routes and bus terminals; a pilot plan to reopen gyms will begin; funerals with up to 25 people are allowed; social gatherings and business meetings with up to 25 people are allowed, if social distancing measures can be guaranteed (2 metres between each person, no ventilation systems in place and other biosecurity measures); pilot plan – authorised gyms can reinstate their activity in compliance of COVID-19 official prevention protocols; doctors from all fields are able to take in customers with appointments; Private cars will be able to circulate as follows: licence plates ending in 6, 8 and 0 will not be able to circulate on Mondays; licence plates ending in 5, 7 and 9 will not be able to circulate on Tuesdays; licence plates ending in 4 and 0 will not be able to circulate on Wednesdays; licence plates ending in 1, 3 and 9 will not be able to circulate on Thursdays; licence plates ending in 2, 6 and 8 will not be able to circulate on Fridays; licence plates ending in 1, 3 and 5 will not be able to circulate on Saturdays; licence plates ending in 2, 4, and 7 will not be able to circulate on Sundays; private cars can circulate between green and amber or green provinces as long as they comply with the licence plate guidance above.
    **Quito’s special regime: Social gatherings and business meetings are prohibited. Shops, restaurants, cinemas and theatres can operate at 30% capacity and 25% of civil servants will be allowed to return to their offices. Bus terminals for inter-provincial travel will resume their operations on 2 September, but with only 40% of their vehicles.
    Most hotels have reopened with a limited capacity and with strict protocols to prevent COVID-19 spread.

    Read more
    01.09.2020

  • Ecuador *****International Restrictions:
    All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. As of 1 June, international commercial flights resumed limited operations. The restriction on international arrivals has also been lifted. Upon arrival, passengers will be required to sign a declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 96 hours prior to departure. In countries where the PCR tests are not available, passengers must agree to take a COVID-19 test at the airport in Ecuador on arrival. All passengers who arrive with a negative PCR test result will no longer be required to carry out self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO). For those who do not present a negative PCR test result on arrival, they will need to carry out self-isolation for 14 days at their own expense, in hotels or private accommodation. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes. The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols [https://www.coronavirusecuador.com/] that also allows direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only). The Government is monitoring the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.

    *****

    Internal restrictions:

    As of 4 May, the Government introduced a new phase of “social distancing” to loosen up restrictions progressively according to the situation in each canton. The system has three levels: red, amber and green. On 14 August, President Moreno renewed the state of emergency for a further 30 days. It will now remain in force until 15 September. This includes general nationwide measures such as: self-isolation and extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and people whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19; mandatory use of face masks in public spaces. Fines will be given to those who do not comply. Each city will define the cost of the fine; strong recommendation for all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing; pubs, nightclubs and children playgrounds remain closed; schools at all levels and universities remain closed nationwide. Classes will be delivered online; all public gatherings are prohibited; physical activities in closed spaces will be limited to those Green-rated cantons. Outdoor activities are allowed if they comply with local social distancing measures approved by each canton; from 5 August, some beaches will reopen and will be monitored through the “Distancia2” app; tourist transport operators (vehicles and boats) will be allowed to provide their services in Amber and Green level cities. Other transport services (door to door) remain forbidden; inter-provincial travel by private car is permitted between Amber and Green level cities
    inter-provincial travel is allowed between Amber and Green level cities and where local governments have agreed to open bus terminals; passengers travelling on domestic flights between Quito and Guayaquil must present a negative COVID-19 test. The authorities will accept antibody tests (“quick tests”) and Polymerase Chain Reaction tests (PCR) taken at laboratories approved by the Ministry of Health. PCR tests will be valid if taken up to 72 hours prior to departure and quick tests within 24 hours. Tests can be taken at airports. This measure will run until 21 August. From then on, random tests will be carried out
    passengers who have completed mandatory self-isolation (APO) at authorised hotels/temporary accommodation, are no longer required to have a COVID-19 test for domestic flights, just to present their APO certificate issued by the Ministry of Health; inter-provincial package deliveries are allowed; all businesses and industries must prepare a health prevention protocol to address COVID-19; there are labs authorised to undertake COVID-19 tests; A tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ), to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days, has now been launched nationwide. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users; The Government has emphasised that measures will be enforced robustly and infringements will be sanctioned. You should ensure you comply, including with self-isolation measures. Check specific details on self-isolation (Spanish only). Quito Municipality has launched a new campaign to increase testing and triage.
    New phase of restrictions by municipality: The Government has updated the measures applied under each level of the “red, amber, green” system with effect from 1 July. These measures apply nationwide with the exception of Quito, where stricter measures remain in place. Each municipal government is responsible for determining whether they move from one stage to the next. You can find an interactive map showing the colour of each city through this online tool [https://srvportal.gestionderiesgos.gob.ec/portal/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=5ecd2baea7024774b72765fb764d3690]. Municipalities can implement additional measures to those stated below.
    Several municipalities have now moved to the “amber” level. Guayaquil began this phase on 20 May and Quito on 3 June. There is a special regime for some “amber level” provinces.
    **Red: Municipalities in “red” will apply the following measures: curfew restricting all movement from 6pm to 5am; transactions to buy food and other products are authorised to be carried out online, through telephone and by home delivery, from 7am to 10pm; travel within the province is not allowed; safe passages are required to operate during curfew hours (work and justified travel); medical attention is authorised with an appointment, including surgery; remote working is still in force; workers are allowed to return to their offices in the public and private sectors (up to 30% staff capacity); shops are allowed to open (up to 30% staff capacity); social gatherings, public or private, are forbidden; Private cars can only circulate twice a week. Circulation of private vehicles applies as follows: Monday: licence plates ending in 1, 2, 3 and 7; Tuesday: licence plates ending in 3, 4, 5 and 8; Wednesday: licence plates ending in 4, 5, 6 and 9; Thursday: licence plates ending in 6, 7, 8 and 0; Friday: licence plates ending in 1, 2, 9, and 0; no private car is allowed to circulate on Saturday and Sunday; taxis can circulate against the licence plate number on Saturday and with no restriction on Sunday.
    **Amber: Municipalities in “amber” will apply the following measures: Curfew restricting all movement applies from 11pm to 5am. Except for Pichincha, Carchi, Imbabura, Cotopaxi, Bolivar, Tungurahua, Chimborazo, Cañar, Azuay, Loja, Santo Domingo Tsachilas, Esmeraldas, Morona Santiago, Zamora Chinchipe, Sucumbios, Orellana, Pastaza and Napo provinces (see below the special regime information for these provinces). shops and restaurants can reopen to the public with 50% capacity; funerals with up to 25 people are allowed; social gatherings and executive meetings with up to 25 people present are allowed, if social distancing measures can be guaranteed (2 metres between each person, no ventilation systems in place and other biosecurity measures); cinemas and theatres can reopen with a limited capacity of 30% (except for Quito); archaeological sites, zoos, museums and national parks will reopen with a limited capacity of 30%, except the Yasuni National Park; urban public transport, transport within the province and inter-provincial transport is allowed with 50% bus capacity. Destinations must be in the Amber and Green levels; closed pools will be able to reopen for training purposes, respecting bio security measures
    public and private institutions will be allowed to operate to 50% of their total capacity. Remote working will be encouraged; all businesses and institutions must have a COVID-19 prevention protocol in place to prevent spread among clients and staff; doctors (in all fields) are allowed to receive patients with an appointment; Private cars will be able to circulate as follows: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: licence plates ending in odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7 and 9); Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays: licence plates ending in even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8 and 0); Sundays: On 2, 16 and 30 August licence plates ending in odd numbers. On 19 and 23 August licence plates ending in even numbers; private cars can circulate between amber and amber or green provinces as long as they comply with the licence plate guidance above; taxis can circulate every day without any licence plate number restriction;.
    **Green: Municipalities in “green” will apply the following measures:; there is no curfew; restaurants and shops can reopen to the public with 50% of their capacity; urban bus or tram transport at 50% capacity; transport within the province is allowed if cantons are in the same level; travel between provinces is allowed if the local governments are in Amber or Green levels and have approved reopening the routes and bus terminals; a pilot plan to reopen gyms will begin; funerals with up to 25 people are allowed; social gatherings and business meetings with up to 25 people are allowed, if social distancing measures can be guaranteed (2 metres between each person, no ventilation systems in place and other biosecurity measures); pilot plan – authorised gyms can reinstate their activity in compliance of COVID-19 official prevention protocols; doctors from all fields are able to take in customers with appointments
    Private cars will be able to circulate as follows: licence plates ending in 6, 8 and 0 will not be able to circulate on Mondays; licence plates ending in 5, 7 and 9 will not be able to circulate on Tuesdays; licence plates ending in 4 and 0 will not be able to circulate on Wednesdays; licence plates ending in 1, 3 and 9 will not be able to circulate on Thursdays; licence plates ending in 2, 6 and 8 will not be able to circulate on Fridays; licence plates ending in 1, 3 and 5 will not be able to circulate on Saturdays; licence plates ending in 2, 4, and 7 will not be able to circulate on Sundays; private cars can circulate between green and amber or green provinces as long as they comply with the licence plate guidance above.
    **Quito’s special regime: In addition to the general measures at Amber level, in Quito as of 31 July and until 12 August, a curfew restricting all movement will apply from 9pm to 5am from Monday to Thursday, and from 7pm to 5am from Friday to Sunday The surrounding valleys of Mejia, Ruminahui and Cayambe have the same curfew hours as in Quito. Social gatherings and business meetings are prohibited. Shops and restaurants can operate at 30% capacity and 25% of civil servants will be allowed to return to their offices. Cinemas and theatres remain closed. Bus terminals for inter-provincial travel will remain closed until further notice. Home delivery service can operate until 10pm. In addition, people must carry identification with them at all times. From 31 July to 12 August, alcohol sale is completely prohibited from Friday to Sunday, except from restaurants under category 4 and tourist activity, in which one alcohol side drink will be allowed.
    **Other provinces’ special regime: From 31 July the same special regime, including curfew hours (from 9pm to 5am from Monday to Thursday, and from 7pm to 5am from Friday to Sunday); the suspension of all social and business gatherings, and the ban of alcohol sale (from Friday to Sunday), are also applicable for Pichincha, Carchi, Imbabura, Cotopaxi, Bolivar, Tungurahua, Chimborazo, Cañar, Azuay, Loja, Santo Domingo Tsachilas, Esmeraldas, Morona Santiago, Zamora Chinchipe, Sucumbios, Orellana, Pastaza and Napo provinces. Home delivery service can operate until 10pm.
    Most hotels have reopened with a limited capacity and with strict protocols to prevent COVID-19 spread.

    Read more
    19.08.2020

  • Ecuador President extends state of emergency by 60 days because of COVID-19, until 15 August. (TeleSur, 16.06.2020)

    *****International Restrictions:
    All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. As of 1 June, international commercial flights resumed limited operations. The restriction on international arrivals has also been lifted. Upon arrival, passengers will be required to sign a declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 7 days prior to departure. In countries where the PCR tests are not available, passengers must agree to take a COVID-19 test at the airport in Ecuador on arrival. All passengers who arrive with a negative PCR test result will no longer be required to carry out self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO). For those who do not present a negative PCR test result on arrival, they will need to carry out self-isolation for 14 days at their own expense, in hotels or private accommodation. Local residents and people qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes. The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols [https://www.coronavirusecuador.com/] that also allows direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only). The Government is monitoring the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.

    *****

    Internal restrictions:

    As of 4 May, the Government introduced a new phase of “social distancing” to loosen up restrictions progressively according to the situation in each canton. The system has three levels: red, amber and green. On 14 August, President Moreno renewed the state of emergency for a further 30 days. It will now remain in force until 15 September. This includes general nationwide measures such as: self-isolation and extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and people whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19; mandatory use of face masks in public spaces. Fines will be given to those who do not comply. Each city will define the cost of the fine; strong recommendation for all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing; pubs, nightclubs and children playgrounds remain closed; schools at all levels and universities remain closed nationwide. Classes will be delivered online; all public gatherings are prohibited; physical activities in closed spaces will be limited to those Green-rated cantons. Outdoor activities are allowed if they comply with local social distancing measures approved by each canton; from 5 August, some beaches will reopen and will be monitored through the “Distancia2” app; tourist transport operators (vehicles and boats) will be allowed to provide their services in Amber and Green level cities. Other transport services (door to door) remain forbidden; inter-provincial travel by private car is permitted between Amber and Green level cities
    inter-provincial travel is allowed between Amber and Green level cities and where local governments have agreed to open bus terminals; passengers travelling on domestic flights between Quito and Guayaquil must present a negative COVID-19 test. The authorities will accept antibody tests (“quick tests”) and Polymerase Chain Reaction tests (PCR) taken at laboratories approved by the Ministry of Health. PCR tests will be valid if taken up to 72 hours prior to departure and quick tests within 24 hours. Tests can be taken at airports. This measure will run until 21 August. From then on, random tests will be carried out
    passengers who have completed mandatory self-isolation (APO) at authorised hotels/temporary accommodation, are no longer required to have a COVID-19 test for domestic flights, just to present their APO certificate issued by the Ministry of Health; inter-provincial package deliveries are allowed; all businesses and industries must prepare a health prevention protocol to address COVID-19; there are labs authorised to undertake COVID-19 tests; A tracing app ( ̔ASI Ecuador̕ ), to alert people if they have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case during the last 15 days, has now been launched nationwide. The app is supported via Bluetooth and maintains the confidentiality of users; The Government has emphasised that measures will be enforced robustly and infringements will be sanctioned. You should ensure you comply, including with self-isolation measures. Check specific details on self-isolation (Spanish only). Quito Municipality has launched a new campaign to increase testing and triage.
    New phase of restrictions by municipality: The Government has updated the measures applied under each level of the “red, amber, green” system with effect from 1 July. These measures apply nationwide with the exception of Quito, where stricter measures remain in place. Each municipal government is responsible for determining whether they move from one stage to the next. You can find an interactive map showing the colour of each city through this online tool [https://srvportal.gestionderiesgos.gob.ec/portal/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=5ecd2baea7024774b72765fb764d3690]. Municipalities can implement additional measures to those stated below.
    Several municipalities have now moved to the “amber” level. Guayaquil began this phase on 20 May and Quito on 3 June. There is a special regime for some “amber level” provinces.
    **Red: Municipalities in “red” will apply the following measures: curfew restricting all movement from 6pm to 5am; transactions to buy food and other products are authorised to be carried out online, through telephone and by home delivery, from 7am to 10pm; travel within the province is not allowed; safe passages are required to operate during curfew hours (work and justified travel); medical attention is authorised with an appointment, including surgery; remote working is still in force; workers are allowed to return to their offices in the public and private sectors (up to 30% staff capacity); shops are allowed to open (up to 30% staff capacity); social gatherings, public or private, are forbidden; Private cars can only circulate twice a week. Circulation of private vehicles applies as follows: Monday: licence plates ending in 1, 2, 3 and 7; Tuesday: licence plates ending in 3, 4, 5 and 8; Wednesday: licence plates ending in 4, 5, 6 and 9; Thursday: licence plates ending in 6, 7, 8 and 0; Friday: licence plates ending in 1, 2, 9, and 0; no private car is allowed to circulate on Saturday and Sunday; taxis can circulate against the licence plate number on Saturday and with no restriction on Sunday.
    **Amber: Municipalities in “amber” will apply the following measures: Curfew restricting all movement applies from 11pm to 5am. Except for Pichincha, Carchi, Imbabura, Cotopaxi, Bolivar, Tungurahua, Chimborazo, Cañar, Azuay, Loja, Santo Domingo Tsachilas, Esmeraldas, Morona Santiago, Zamora Chinchipe, Sucumbios, Orellana, Pastaza and Napo provinces (see below the special regime information for these provinces). shops and restaurants can reopen to the public with 50% capacity; funerals with up to 25 people are allowed; social gatherings and executive meetings with up to 25 people present are allowed, if social distancing measures can be guaranteed (2 metres between each person, no ventilation systems in place and other biosecurity measures); cinemas and theatres can reopen with a limited capacity of 30% (except for Quito); archaeological sites, zoos, museums and national parks will reopen with a limited capacity of 30%, except the Yasuni National Park; urban public transport, transport within the province and inter-provincial transport is allowed with 50% bus capacity. Destinations must be in the Amber and Green levels; closed pools will be able to reopen for training purposes, respecting bio security measures
    public and private institutions will be allowed to operate to 50% of their total capacity. Remote working will be encouraged; all businesses and institutions must have a COVID-19 prevention protocol in place to prevent spread among clients and staff; doctors (in all fields) are allowed to receive patients with an appointment; Private cars will be able to circulate as follows: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: licence plates ending in odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7 and 9); Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays: licence plates ending in even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8 and 0); Sundays: On 2, 16 and 30 August licence plates ending in odd numbers. On 19 and 23 August licence plates ending in even numbers; private cars can circulate between amber and amber or green provinces as long as they comply with the licence plate guidance above; taxis can circulate every day without any licence plate number restriction;.
    **Green: Municipalities in “green” will apply the following measures:; there is no curfew; restaurants and shops can reopen to the public with 50% of their capacity; urban bus or tram transport at 50% capacity; transport within the province is allowed if cantons are in the same level; travel between provinces is allowed if the local governments are in Amber or Green levels and have approved reopening the routes and bus terminals; a pilot plan to reopen gyms will begin; funerals with up to 25 people are allowed; social gatherings and business meetings with up to 25 people are allowed, if social distancing measures can be guaranteed (2 metres between each person, no ventilation systems in place and other biosecurity measures); pilot plan – authorised gyms can reinstate their activity in compliance of COVID-19 official prevention protocols; doctors from all fields are able to take in customers with appointments
    Private cars will be able to circulate as follows: licence plates ending in 6, 8 and 0 will not be able to circulate on Mondays; licence plates ending in 5, 7 and 9 will not be able to circulate on Tuesdays; licence plates ending in 4 and 0 will not be able to circulate on Wednesdays; licence plates ending in 1, 3 and 9 will not be able to circulate on Thursdays; licence plates ending in 2, 6 and 8 will not be able to circulate on Fridays; licence plates ending in 1, 3 and 5 will not be able to circulate on Saturdays; licence plates ending in 2, 4, and 7 will not be able to circulate on Sundays; private cars can circulate between green and amber or green provinces as long as they comply with the licence plate guidance above.
    **Quito’s special regime: In addition to the general measures at Amber level, in Quito as of 31 July and until 12 August, a curfew restricting all movement will apply from 9pm to 5am from Monday to Thursday, and from 7pm to 5am from Friday to Sunday The surrounding valleys of Mejia, Ruminahui and Cayambe have the same curfew hours as in Quito. Social gatherings and business meetings are prohibited. Shops and restaurants can operate at 30% capacity and 25% of civil servants will be allowed to return to their offices. Cinemas and theatres remain closed. Bus terminals for inter-provincial travel will remain closed until further notice. Home delivery service can operate until 10pm. In addition, people must carry identification with them at all times. From 31 July to 12 August, alcohol sale is completely prohibited from Friday to Sunday, except from restaurants under category 4 and tourist activity, in which one alcohol side drink will be allowed.
    **Other provinces’ special regime: From 31 July the same special regime, including curfew hours (from 9pm to 5am from Monday to Thursday, and from 7pm to 5am from Friday to Sunday); the suspension of all social and business gatherings, and the ban of alcohol sale (from Friday to Sunday), are also applicable for Pichincha, Carchi, Imbabura, Cotopaxi, Bolivar, Tungurahua, Chimborazo, Cañar, Azuay, Loja, Santo Domingo Tsachilas, Esmeraldas, Morona Santiago, Zamora Chinchipe, Sucumbios, Orellana, Pastaza and Napo provinces. Home delivery service can operate until 10pm.
    Most hotels have reopened with a limited capacity and with strict protocols to prevent COVID-19 spread.

    Read more
    17.08.2020

  • Ecuador President extends state of emergency by 60 days because of COVID-19, until 15 August. (TeleSur, 16.06.2020)

    *****International Restrictions:
    As of 1 June, international commercial flights resumed limited operations. The restriction on international arrivals has also been lifted.All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice.

    *****

    Internal restrictions:

    The Government introduced a new phase of “social distancing” to loosen up restrictions progressively according to the situation in each canton. The system has three levels: red, amber and green. President Moreno renewed the state of emergency for a further 60 days. It will now remain in force until 15 August. This includes general nationwide measures such as: self-isolation and extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and people whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19 mandatory; use of face masks in public spaces. Fines will be given to those who do not comply. Each city will define the cost of the fine strong recommendation for all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing; pubs, nightclubs and children playgrounds remain closed; schools at all levels and universities remain closed nationwide. Classes will be delivered online
    all public gatherings are prohibited; physical activities in closed spaces will be limited to those Green-rated cantons. Outdoor activities are allowed if they comply with local social distancing measures approved by each canton; from 5 August, some beaches will reopen and will be monitored through the “Distancia2” app; tourist transport operators (vehicles and boats) will be allowed to provide their services in Amber and Green level cities. Other transport services (door to door) remain forbidden; inter-provincial travel by private car is permitted between Amber and Green level cities; inter-provincial travel is allowed between Amber and Green level cities and where local governments have agreed to open bus terminals; passengers travelling on domestic flights between Quito and Guayaquil must present a negative COVID-19 test. The authorities will accept antibody tests (“quick tests”) and Polymerase Chain Reaction tests (PCR) taken at laboratories approved by the Ministry of Health. PCR tests will be valid if taken up to 72 hours prior to departure and quick tests within 24 hours. Tests can be taken at airports. This measure will run until 21 August. From then on, random tests will be carried out; passengers who have completed mandatory self-isolation (APO) at authorised hotels/temporary accommodation, are no longer required to have a COVID-19 test for domestic flights, just to present their APO certificate issued by the Ministry of Health; inter-provincial package deliveries are allowed; all businesses and industries must prepare a health prevention protocol to address COVID-19; there are labs authorised to undertake COVID-19 tests. The Government has emphasised that measures will be enforced robustly and infringements will be sanctioned. You should ensure you comply, including with self-isolation measures. Check specific details on self-isolation [https://coronavirusecuador.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/DOCUMENTO_CUARENTENA__.pdf].

    Read more
    05.08.2020

  • Ecuador President extends state of emergency by 60 days because of COVID-19, until 15 August. (TeleSur, 16.06.2020)

    *****International Restrictions:
    Commercial flights are operating to and from Ecuador. As of 1 June, international commercial flights resumed limited operations. The restriction on international arrivals has also been lifted. All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. Upon arrival, passengers will be required to sign a declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 7 days prior to departure. In countries where the PCR tests are not available, passengers must agree to take a COVID-19 test at the airport in Ecuador on arrival. The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols [https://coronavirusecuador.com/]. that also allows direct messaging with the Ministry. If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility website.[https://www.cancilleria.gob.ec/2020/04/28/hospedaje-para-aislamiento/]. The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    ***Galapagos Islands: From 1 July, tourist activities will be allowed in the Galapagos. Foreigners wishing to enter the islands must present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken 96 hours prior to the date of departure to Ecuador. Tourists must also present a safe passage document issued by the Ministry of Tourism to be exempt from doing 14 days of self-isolation on the islands. The tour operators or hotels are responsible for arranging this safe passage document on behalf of tourists, given that visitors are required to have previous contracted travel arrangements. queries regarding travel back to mainland Ecuador, you can contact the Galapagos authorities via email at galapagosresponder@gmail.com.

    *****

    Internal restrictions:

    The Government introduced a new phase of “social distancing” to loosen up restrictions progressively according to the situation in each canton. The system has three levels: red, amber and green. President Moreno renewed the state of emergency for a further 60 days. It will now remain in force until 15 August. This includes general nationwide measures such as: self-isolation and extra precaution advised for people over 60 years old, and people whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19 mandatory; use of face masks in public spaces. Fines will be given to those who do not comply. Each city will define the cost of the fine strong recommendation for all individuals to comply with social distancing measures and practice frequent hand washing; pubs, nightclubs and children playgrounds remain closed; schools at all levels and universities remain closed nationwide. Classes will be delivered online
    all public gatherings are prohibited; physical activities in closed spaces will be limited to those Green-rated cantons. Outdoor activities are allowed if they comply with local social distancing measures approved by each canton; from 5 August, some beaches will reopen and will be monitored through the “Distancia2” app; tourist transport operators (vehicles and boats) will be allowed to provide their services in Amber and Green level cities. Other transport services (door to door) remain forbidden; inter-provincial travel by private car is permitted between Amber and Green level cities; inter-provincial travel is allowed between Amber and Green level cities and where local governments have agreed to open bus terminals; passengers travelling on domestic flights between Quito and Guayaquil must present a negative COVID-19 test. The authorities will accept antibody tests (“quick tests”) and Polymerase Chain Reaction tests (PCR) taken at laboratories approved by the Ministry of Health. PCR tests will be valid if taken up to 72 hours prior to departure and quick tests within 24 hours. Tests can be taken at airports. This measure will run until 21 August. From then on, random tests will be carried out; passengers who have completed mandatory self-isolation (APO) at authorised hotels/temporary accommodation, are no longer required to have a COVID-19 test for domestic flights, just to present their APO certificate issued by the Ministry of Health; inter-provincial package deliveries are allowed; all businesses and industries must prepare a health prevention protocol to address COVID-19; there are labs authorised to undertake COVID-19 tests. The Government has emphasised that measures will be enforced robustly and infringements will be sanctioned. You should ensure you comply, including with self-isolation measures. Check specific details on self-isolation [https://coronavirusecuador.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/DOCUMENTO_CUARENTENA__.pdf].

    Read more
    31.07.2020

  • Ecuador President extends state of emergency by 60 days because of COVID-19, until 15 August. (TeleSur, 16.06.2020)

    *****International Restrictions:
    All land borders with Colombia and Peru remain closed until further notice. As of 1 June, international commercial flights resumed limited operations. The restriction on international arrivals has also been lifted. Upon arrival, passengers will be required to sign a declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, taken up to 7 days prior to departure. In countries where the PCR tests are not available, passengers must agree to take a COVID-19 test at the airport in Ecuador on arrival. All passengers will be subject to mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) for 14 days. This will be at the individual’s own expense, in hotels or private accommodation. People qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes. The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only) [https://coronavirusecuador.com/]. If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility website [https://www.cancilleria.gob.ec/2020/04/28/hospedaje-para-aislamiento/].

    *****

    Internal restrictions:

    On 15 June President Moreno renewed the state of emergency for a further 60 days. It will now remain in force until 15 August. This includes general nationwide measures such as: Self-isolation advised for people over 60 years old, and people whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19.
    Mandatory use of face masks in public spaces. Fines will be given to those who do not comply. Each city will define the cost of the fine. Pubs, nightclubs and playgrounds remain closed. Physical activities in closed spaces will be limited to those cantons at Green. Outdoor activities are allowed if they comply with local social distancing measures approved by each canton. From 22 July, some beaches will reopen and will be monitored through the “Distancia2” app.
    Tourist transport operators (vehicles and boats) will be allowed to provide their services in Amber and Green level cities. Other transport services (door to door) remain forbidden. Inter-provincial travel by private car is permitted between Amber and Green level cities. Inter-provincial travel by is allowed between cities that are under Amber and Green levels and where local governments have agreed to open bus terminals. Passengers travelling on domestic flights between Quito and Guayaquil must present a negative COVID-19 test. The authorities will accept antibody tests (“quick tests”) and Polymerase Chain Reaction tests (PCR) taken at laboratories approved by the Ministry of Health. PCR tests will be valid if taken up to 72 hours prior to departure and quick tests within 25 hours. Tests can be taken at airports. This measure will run until 6 July. From then on, random tests will be carried out. All public gatherings are prohibited. Inter-provincial package delivery is allowed. All businesses and industries must prepare a health prevention protocol to address COVID-19. The Government has emphasised that measures will be enforced robustly and infringements will be sanctioned. You should ensure you comply, including with self-isolation measures. Check specific details on self-isolation (Spanish only) [https://coronavirusecuador.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/DOCUMENTO_CUARENTENA__.pdf].

    Read more
    09.07.2020

  • Ecuador President extends state of emergency by 60 days because of COVID-19, until 15 August. (TeleSur, 16.06.2020)

    *****International Restrictions:
    As of 1 June, international commercial flights resumed limited operations. Land borders were closed following decisions from the Peruvian and Colombian authorities, and will remain closed until further notice.The Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights. The restriction on international arrivals has also been lifted. Upon arrival, passengers will be required to sign a declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. They must also present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID19, taken up to 7 days prior to departure. In countries where the PCR tests are not available, passengers must agree to take a COVID19 test at the airport in Ecuador before they travel. All passengers will be subject to mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) for 14 days. This will be at the individual’s own expense, in hotels or private accommodation. People qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes. The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only) [https://coronavirusecuador.com/]. If you need to find emergency accommodation to go through the mandatory self-isolation protocol, you can access options on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility website [https://www.cancilleria.gob.ec/2020/04/28/hospedaje-para-aislamiento/].

    *****

    Internal restrictions:

    On 15 June President Moreno renewed the state of emergency for a further 60 days. It will now remain in force until 15 August. This includes general nationwide measures such as: Self-isolation advised for people over 60 years old, and people whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19.
    Mandatory use of face masks in public spaces. Fines will be given to those who do not comply. Each city will define the cost of the fine. Pubs, nightclubs and playgrounds remain closed. Physical activities in closed spaces will be limited to those cantons at Green. Outdoor activities are allowed if they comply with local social distancing measures approved by each canton. From 22 July, some beaches will reopen and will be monitored through the “Distancia2” app.
    Tourist transport operators (vehicles and boats) will be allowed to provide their services in Amber and Green level cities. Other transport services (door to door) remain forbidden. Inter-provincial travel by private car is permitted between Amber and Green level cities. Inter-provincial travel by is allowed between cities that are under Amber and Green levels and where local governments have agreed to open bus terminals. Passengers travelling on domestic flights between Quito and Guayaquil must present a negative COVID-19 test. The authorities will accept antibody tests (“quick tests”) and Polymerase Chain Reaction tests (PCR) taken at laboratories approved by the Ministry of Health. PCR tests will be valid if taken up to 72 hours prior to departure and quick tests within 25 hours. Tests can be taken at airports. This measure will run until 6 July. From then on, random tests will be carried out. All public gatherings are prohibited. Inter-provincial package delivery is allowed. All businesses and industries must prepare a health prevention protocol to address COVID-19. The Government has emphasised that measures will be enforced robustly and infringements will be sanctioned. You should ensure you comply, including with self-isolation measures. Check specific details on self-isolation (Spanish only) [https://coronavirusecuador.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/DOCUMENTO_CUARENTENA__.pdf].

    Read more
    06.07.2020

  • Ecuador President extends state of emergency by 60 days because of COVID-19, until 15 August. (TeleSur, 16.06.2020)

    *****International Restrictions:
    As of 1 June, international commercial flights resumed limited operations.The restriction on international arrivals has also been lifted. Upon arrival, passengers will be required to sign a declaration form with their itinerary and local contact details. Although the Government will monitor the situation in other countries with high risk of contagion to prevent incoming flights.
    Passengers arriving must also present a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for COVID19, taken up to 7 days prior to departure. In countries where the PCR tests are not available, passengers must agree to take a COVID19 test at the airport in Ecuador before they travel.
    All passengers will be subject to mandatory self-isolation (Aislamiento Preventivo Obligatorio – APO) for 14 days. This will be at the individual’s own expense, in hotels or private accommodation. People qualified as “priority attention groups” such as people over 65 years old, children and pregnant women, will be allowed to self-isolate at their homes. The Ministry of Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols that also allows direct messaging with the Ministry (Spanish only) [https://coronavirusecuador.com/].
    Land borders were closed following decisions from the Peruvian and Colombian authorities, and will remain closed until further notice.

    *****

    Internal restrictions:

    President Moreno announced a 60-day extension to the state of emergency, which will now last until 15 August. General nationwide restrictions remain: Mandatory self-isolation for people over 60 years old, and people whose medical conditions make them vulnerable to COVID-19; Mandatory use of face masks in public spaces. Fines will be given to those who do not comply. Each city will define the cost of the fine; Inter-provincial travel by bus has been approved between cities that are under amber and green level. For Quito inter-provincial travel will resume on 1 July; From 19 June, people travelling on domestic flights must present a negative COVID-19 test taken a maximum of 72 hours prior to departing. Authorities will accept antibody tests (“quick tests”) and Polymerase Chain Reaction tests (PCR) taken at laboratories approved by the Ministry of Health
    All public gatherings are prohibited, including gatherings at home,sporting events, museums and entertainment centres. Schools will be closed nationwide, but classes will be delivered online. Inter-province package delivery is allowed. All businesses and industries must prepare a health prevention protocol to address COVID-19. The Government has emphasised that measures will be enforced robustly and infringements will be sanctioned. You should ensure you comply, including with self-isolation measures. Check specific details on self-isolation (Spanish only) [https://coronavirusecuador.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/DOCUMENTO_CUARENTENA__.pdf].
    As of 4 May, the Government introduced a new phase of “social distancing” to loosen up restrictions progressively according to the situation in each location. The system has three levels: red, amber and green. The Government announced changes to the measured under each level starting 1 June.
    Each municipal government is responsible for determining whether they move from one stage to the next. You can find an interactive map showing the colour of each city through this online tool. [https://srvportal.gestionderiesgos.gob.ec/portal/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=5ecd2baea7024774b72765fb764d3690].

    Read more
    27.06.2020

  • Ecuador President extends state of emergency by 60 days because of COVID-19, until 15 August. (TeleSur, 16.06.2020)

    1. Passengers without a PCR test result for Coronavirus (COVID-19) will be tested upon arrival.
    2. Passengers are subject to self-quarantine for 14 days.
    3. A completed “Declaracion de salud del viajero” and “Formulario migratorio especial” must be presented upon arrival.

    *****

    Outbound restrictions:

    There are currently no known restrictions on individuals seeking to depart the country, but flight availability is limited.

    *****

    Internal restrictions:

    All individuals are required to wear masks in public. From 4 May, provincial authorities will determine the alert level applicable for their region based on a three-tiered system announced by the government: red, yellow and green. Each level entails varying degrees of restrictions and curfews. As of 4 May, all areas of the country are under the ‘red’ level alert. This entails a daily quarantine from 14.00 to 05.00. Non-essential businesses may resume limited operations; these must remain closed to in-person customers and may only fulfill online and telephone orders by delivery. Taxis may now operate until 22.00. All persons are required to use facemasks when in public until further notice. Persons over 60 years old or with underlying medical conditions are required to self-isolate until 31 May. Private car traffic is permitted on certain days according to license plate;
    prohibited during weekends. Public gatherings and events are suspended.

    *****

    Relaxation of restrictions:

    As of 4 May, the Government introduced a new phase of “social distancing” to loosen up restrictions progressively according to the situation in each location. The system has three levels: red, amber and green. The Government announced changes to the measured under each level starting 1 June.
    Each municipal government is responsible for determining whether they move from one stage to the next. You can find an interactive map showing the colour of each city through this online tool (please cope and paste link into your browser):https://srvportal.gestionderiesgos.gob.ec/portal/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=5ecd2baea7024774b72765fb764d3690. Municipalities can implement additional measures to those stated below.
    Several municipalities have now moved to the “amber” level. Guayaquil began this phase on 20 May, and Quito on 3 June.

    Red:
    Municipalities in “red” will apply the following measures:
    Curfew restricting all movement from 6pm to 5am
    Transactions to buy food and other products are authorised to be carried online, through telephone and by home delivery, from 7am to 10pm
    Medical attentions are authorised with an appointment.
    Taxis are authorised to operate from 5am to 10pm
    Remote working is still in force, except for essential sectors
    Private cars can only circulate twice a week. Circulation of private vehicles applies as follows:
    Monday: licence plates ending in 1, 2, 3 and 7.
    Tuesday: licence plates ending in 3, 4, 5 and 8.
    Wednesday: licence plates ending in 4, 5, 6 and 9.
    Thursday: licence plates ending in 6, 7, 8 and 0.
    Friday: licence plates ending in 2, 9, and 0.
    No private car is allowed to circulate on Saturdays and Sundays.

    Amber:
    Municipalities in “amber” will apply the following measures:
    Curfew restricting all movement applies from 9pm to 5am
    Public and private institutions, that are not deemed essential sectors, will be allowed to operate to 50% of their total capacity and can implement shifts to avoid crowding. Remote working will remain the default.
    All businesses and institutions must have a COVID19 prevention protocol in place to prevent spread in clients and staff
    Shops are allowed to operate to 30% of their total capacity
    Doctors (in all fields) are allowed to receive patients with an appointment
    Urban and close range transport is authorised, with buses operating up to 30% of their total capacity
    Private cars will be able to circulate as follows:
    Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: licence plates ending in odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7 and 9).
    Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays: licence plates ending in even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8 and 0).
    No vehicle can circulate on Sundays
    In Quito, people must carry ID with them at all times.

    Green:
    Municipalities in “green” will apply the following measures:
    Curfew restricting all movement applies from 12am to 5am
    Public and private institutions, that are not deemed essential sectors, will be able to operate to 60% of total capacity and can implement shifts to avoid crowding. Remote working will remain the default
    Doctors from all fields are able to take in customers with appointments
    Shops will be able to operate to 50% of their total capacity
    Public transport in urban centres, between parishes and between cantons will be allowed, with buses operating up to 50% of t. heir total capacity
    Private cars will be able to circulate as follows:
    Licence plates ending in 2, 8 and 0 will not be able to circulate on Mondays.
    Licence plates ending in 5, 7 and 9 will not be able to circulate on Tuesdays.
    Licence plates ending in 4 and 0 will not be able to circulate on Wednesdays.
    Licence plates ending in 1, 3 and 9 will not be able to circulate on Thursdays.
    Licence plates ending in 2, 6 and 8 will not be able to circulate on Fridays.
    Licence plates ending in 1, 3 and 5 will not be able to circulate on Saturdays.
    Licence plates ending in 2, 4, and 7 will not be able to circulate on Sundays.

    Read more
    17.06.2020

  • Ecuador 1. Passengers without a PCR test result for Coronavirus (COVID-19) will be tested upon arrival.
    2. Passengers are subject to self-quarantine for 14 days.
    3. A completed “Declaracion de salud del viajero” and “Formulario migratorio especial” must be presented upon arrival.

    Outbound restrictions:

    There are currently no known restrictions on individuals seeking to depart the country, but flight availability is limited.

    Conditions and internal restrictions:

    All individuals are required to wear masks in public. From 4 May, provincial authorities will determine the alert level applicable for their region based on a three-tiered system announced by the government: red, yellow and green. Each level entails varying degrees of restrictions and curfews. As of 4 May, all areas of the country are under the ‘red’ level alert. This entails a daily quarantine from 14.00 to 05.00. Non-essential businesses may resume limited operations; these must remain closed to in-person customers and may only fulfill online and telephone orders by delivery. Taxis may now operate until 22.00. All persons are required to use facemasks when in public until further notice. Persons over 60 years old or with underlying medical conditions are required to self-isolate until 31 May. Private car traffic is permitted on certain days according to license plate;
    prohibited during weekends. Public gatherings and events are suspended until the end of May

    Read more
    15.06.2020

  • Ecuador 1. Guayaquil (GYE) is closed.
    2. Passengers without a PCR test result for Coronavirus (COVID-19) will be tested upon arrival.
    3. Passengers must self-quarantine for 14 days.
    4. A completed Health Form and a completed Immigration form must be presented upon arrival.

    Outbound restrictions:

    There are currently no known restrictions on individuals seeking to depart the country, but flight availability is limited.

    Conditions and internal restrictions:

    All individuals are required to wear masks in public. From 4 May, provincial authorities will determine the alert level applicable for their region based on a three-tiered system announced by the government: red, yellow and green. Each level entails varying degrees of restrictions and curfews. As of 4 May, all areas of the country are under the ‘red’ level alert. This entails a daily quarantine from 14.00 to 05.00. Non-essential businesses may resume limited operations; these must remain closed to in-person customers and may only fulfill online and telephone orders by delivery. Taxis may now operate until 22.00. All persons are required to use facemasks when in public until further notice. Persons over 60 years old or with underlying medical conditions are required to self-isolate until 31 May. Private car traffic is permitted on certain days according to license plate;
    prohibited during weekends. Public gatherings and events are suspended until the end of May

    Read more
    12.06.2020

  • Ecuador Passenger flights resumed starting from June.

    Outbound restrictions:

    There are currently no known restrictions on individuals seeking to depart the country, but flight availability is limited.

    Conditions and internal restrictions:

    All individuals are required to wear masks in public. From 4 May, provincial authorities will determine the alert level applicable for their region based on a three-tiered system announced by the government: red, yellow and green. Each level entails varying degrees of restrictions and curfews. As of 4 May, all areas of the country are under the ‘red’ level alert. This entails a daily quarantine from 14.00 to 05.00. Non-essential businesses may resume limited operations; these must remain closed to in-person customers and may only fulfill online and telephone orders by delivery. Taxis may now operate until 22.00. All persons are required to use facemasks when in public until further notice. Persons over 60 years old or with underlying medical conditions are required to self-isolate until 31 May. Private car traffic is permitted on certain days according to license plate;
    prohibited during weekends. Public gatherings and events are suspended until the end of May

    Read more
    10.06.2020

  • Ecuador Passenger flights will be resumed starting from June. The resumption will be gradual depending on the demand and airlines’ readiness to do that. (UP, 23.05.2020)

    1. Guayaquil (GYE) is closed.
    2. Passengers without a PCR test result for Coronavirus (COVID-19) will be tested upon arrival.
    3. Passengers must self-quarantine for 14 days.

    Outbound restrictions:

    There are currently no known restrictions on individuals seeking to depart the country, but flight availability is limited. Several flights are available to the US between 15-25 May, information available on the US Embassy in Ecuador website.

    Conditions and internal restrictions:

    Domestic flights and interstate travel are suspended until 31 May. All individuals are required to wear masks in public. From 4 May, provincial authorities will determine the alert level applicable for their region based on a three-tiered system announced by the government: red, yellow and green. Each level entails varying degrees of restrictions and curfews. As of 4 May, all areas of the country are under the ‘red’ level alert. This entails a daily quarantine from 14.00 to 05.00. Non-essential businesses may resume limited operations; these must remain closed to in-person customers and may only fulfill online and telephone orders by delivery. Taxis may now operate until 22.00. All persons are required to use facemasks when in public until further notice. Persons over 60 years old or with underlying medical conditions are required to self-isolate until 31 May. Private car traffic is permitted on certain days according to license plate;
    prohibited during weekends. Public gatherings and events are suspended until the end of May

    Read more
    02.06.2020

  • Ecuador Passenger flights will be resumed starting from June. The resumption will be gradual depending on the demand and airlines’ readiness to do that. (UP, 23.05.2020)

    Flights to Ecuador are suspended.
    Effective 1 June 2020:
    1. Flights to Ecuador will be resuming.
    2. Passengers and air crew must have a negative PCR test for Coronavirus (COVID-19) issued within 72h before arrival.

    Outbound restrictions:

    There are currently no known restrictions on individuals seeking to depart the country, but flight availability is limited. Several flights are available to the US between 15-25 May, information available on the US Embassy in Ecuador website.

    Conditions and internal restrictions:

    Domestic flights and interstate travel are suspended until 31 May. All individuals are required to wear masks in public. From 4 May, provincial authorities will determine the alert level applicable for their region based on a three-tiered system announced by the government: red, yellow and green. Each level entails varying degrees of restrictions and curfews. As of 4 May, all areas of the country are under the ‘red’ level alert. This entails a daily quarantine from 14.00 to 05.00. Non-essential businesses may resume limited operations; these must remain closed to in-person customers and may only fulfill online and telephone orders by delivery. Taxis may now operate until 22.00. All persons are required to use facemasks when in public until further notice. Persons over 60 years old or with underlying medical conditions are required to self-isolate until 31 May. Private car traffic is permitted on certain days according to license plate;
    prohibited during weekends. Public gatherings and events are suspended until the end of May

    Read more
    01.06.2020

  • Ecuador Passenger flights will be resumed starting from June. The resumption will be gradual depending on the demand and airlines’ readiness to do that. (UP, 23.05.2020) Flights to Ecuador are suspended. Effective 1 June 2020: 1. Flights to Ecuador will be resuming. 2. Passengers and air crew must have a negative PCR test for Coronavirus (COVID-19) issued within 72h before arrival.

    Outbound restrictions:

    There are currently no known restrictions on individuals seeking to depart the country, but flight availability is limited. Several flights are available to the US between 15-25 May, information available on the US Embassy in Ecuador website.

    Conditions and internal restrictions:

    Domestic flights and interstate travel are suspended until 31 May. All individuals are required to wear masks in public. From 4 May, provincial authorities will determine the alert level applicable for their region based on a three-tiered system announced by the government: red, yellow and green. Each level entails varying degrees of restrictions and curfews. As of 4 May, all areas of the country are under the ‘red’ level alert. This entails a daily quarantine from 14.00 to 05.00. Non-essential businesses may resume limited operations; these must remain closed to in-person customers and may only fulfill online and telephone orders by delivery. Taxis may now operate until 22.00. All persons are required to use facemasks when in public until further notice. Persons over 60 years old or with underlying medical conditions are required to self-isolate until 31 May. Private car traffic is permitted on certain days according to license plate; prohibited during weekends. Public gatherings and events are suspended until the end of May

    Read more
    27.05.2020

  • Ecuador Passenger flights will be resumed starting from June. The resumption will be gradual depending on the demand and airlines’ readiness to do that. (UP, 23.05.2020)

    Inbound restrictions:

    Entry restrictions are in place until at least 31 May. Air, land and sea borders are closed. Entry is prohibited to all travellers, including Ecuadorian nationals and residents. The Minister of Transport announced airport operations to resume on 1 June with restrictions in place.

    Outbound restrictions:

    There are currently no known restrictions on individuals seeking to depart the country, but flight availability is limited. Several flights are available to the US between 15-25 May, information available on the US Embassy in Ecuador website.

    Conditions and internal restrictions:

    Domestic flights and interstate travel are suspended until 31 May. All individuals are required to wear masks in public. From 4 May, provincial authorities will determine the alert level applicable for their region based on a three-tiered system announced by the government: red, yellow and green. Each level entails varying degrees of restrictions and curfews. As of 4 May, all areas of the country are under the ‘red’ level alert. This entails a daily quarantine from 14.00 to 05.00. Non-essential businesses may resume limited operations; these must remain closed to in-person customers and may only fulfill online and telephone orders by delivery. Taxis may now operate until 22.00. All persons are required to use face masks when in public until further notice. Persons over 60 years old or with underlying medical conditions are required to self-isolate until 31 May. Private car traffic is permitted on certain days according to license plate; prohibited during weekends. Public gatherings and events are suspended until the end of May.

    Read more
    23.05.2020

  • Ecuador President Moreno extends state of emergency by 30 days (KXAN36, 06.05.2020)

    Inbound restrictions:

    Entry restrictions are in place until at least 31 May. Air, land and sea borders are closed. Entry is prohibited to all travellers, including Ecuadorian nationals and residents. The Minister of Transport announced airport operations to resume on 1 June with restrictions in place.

    Outbound restrictions:

    There are currently no known restrictions on individuals seeking to depart the country, but flight availability is limited. Several flights are available to the US between 15-25 May, information available on the US Embassy in Ecuador website.

    Conditions and internal restrictions:

    Domestic flights and interstate travel are suspended until 31 May. All individuals are required to wear masks in public. From 4 May, provincial authorities will determine the alert level applicable for their region based on a three-tiered system announced by the government: red, yellow and green. Each level entails varying degrees of restrictions and curfews. As of 4 May, all areas of the country are under the ‘red’ level alert. This entails a daily quarantine from 14.00 to 05.00. Non-essential businesses may resume limited operations; these must remain closed to in-person customers and may only fulfill online and telephone orders by delivery. Taxis may now operate until 22.00. All persons are required to use face masks when in public until further notice. Persons over 60 years old or with underlying medical conditions are required to self-isolate until 31 May. Private car traffic is permitted on certain days according to license plate; prohibited during weekends. Public gatherings and events are suspended until the end of May.

    Read more
    18.05.2020

  • Ecuador President Moreno extends state of emergency by 30 days (KXAN36, 06.05.2020) Flights to Ecuador are suspended.

    Inbound restrictions:

    Entry restrictions are in place until at least 31 May. Air, land and sea borders are closed. Entry is prohibited to all travellers, including Ecuadorian nationals and residents.

    Outbound restrictions:

    There are currently no known restrictions on individuals seeking to depart the country, but flight availability is limited.

    Conditions and internal restrictions:

    Domestic flights and interstate travel are suspended until 31 May. All individuals are required to wear masks in public. From 4 May, provincial authorities will determine the alert level applicable for their region based on a three-tiered system announced by the government: red, yellow and green. Each level entails varying degrees of restrictions and curfews. As of 4 May, all areas of the country are under the ‘red’ level alert. This entails a daily quarantine from 14.00 to 05.00. Non-essential businesses may resume limited operations; these must remain closed to in-person customers and may only fulfill online and telephone orders by delivery. Taxis may now operate until 22.00. All persons are required to use face masks when in public until further notice. Persons over 60 years old or with underlying medical conditions are required to self-isolate until 31 May. Private car traffic is permitted on certain days according to license plate; prohibited during weekends. Public gatherings and events are suspended until the end of May.

    Read more
    12.05.2020

  • Ecuador President Moreno extends state of emergency by 30 days (KXAN36, 06.05.2020)

    Flights to Ecuador are suspended.

    Inbound restrictions:

    Entry restrictions are in place until at least 31 May. Air, land and sea borders are closed. Entry is prohibited to all travellers, including Ecuadorian nationals and residents.

    Outbound restrictions:

    There are currently no known restrictions on individuals seeking to depart the country, but flight availability is limited.

    Conditions and internal restrictions:

    Domestic flights and interstate travel are suspended until 31 May. All individuals are required to wear masks in public. From 4 May, provincial authorities will determine the alert level applicable for their region based on a three-tiered system announced by the government: red, yellow and green. Each level entails varying degrees of restrictions and curfews. As of 4 May, all areas of the country are under the ‘red’ level alert. This entails a daily quarantine from 14.00 to 05.00. Non-essential businesses may resume limited operations; these must remain closed to in-person customers and may only fulfill online and telephone orders by delivery. Taxis may now operate until 22.00. All persons are required to use face masks when in public until further notice. Persons over 60 years old or with underlying medical conditions are required to self-isolate until 31 May. Private car traffic is permitted on certain days according to license plate; prohibited during weekends. Public gatherings and events are suspended until the end of May.

    Read more
    10.05.2020
    • Source Foreign travel advice, Gov.UK/
    US State Dept. COVID-19 Country Specific Information/
    OSAC Travel Advisories/
    Ministry of Health/
    #South America, #, #, #, #, #, #, #, #, #