With our mission to uncomplicate the complicated, we’ve always thought of our work in immigration as people-first. Our goal is for these updates to make sense of the changes happening across the world. Please share these updates with your colleagues who may find this information helpful, too.
International Updates
Canada | On New Year’s Eve, the Canadian government announced that as of January 7, 2021, all air travelers to Canada aged 5 years or older (regardless of citizenship or place of residence) would be required to provide evidence of a negative PCR COVID test taken within 72 hours before boarding. This does not replace or shorten the 14-day quarantine period.
The news release for air travelers and the FAQ page provides the information we have at this time.
Ireland | From Wednesday, January 6, the government plans to replace the current entry ban from Britain with increased testing requirements. Travelers will need to provide a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours before departure from Britain. Additionally, travelers will be asked to isolate for at least five days and pending the results of a second negative COVID test.
Scotland | Beginning January 5, the country will be under a new lockdown. All people are required to stay at home except for essential outings. Schools will remain closed until February.
Singapore | From January 4, long-term pass holders and short-term visitors who have been to South Africa within the past 14 days will not be allowed entry or transit through Singapore. Citizens and permanent residents will be required to take a COVID-19 test and commit to a 14-day quarantine.
Spain | As per the Order PCM/1295/2020, travel restrictions with the UK have been extended from January 5 till January 19, 2021 (6:00 pm).
The Ministry of Health has published an updated list of countries considered areas of risk whose travelers shall undertake a COVID-19 test before traveling to Spain. The list, available here, is valid from January 11-24, 2021. The current list is valid until January 10, 2021.
The United Kingdom | Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a new national lockdown, expanding the highest level of restrictions until mid-February. Closures include primary and secondary schools, colleges, and universities.
We will continue to send updates as more COVID-19-related news is available. If you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or in past updates or want to hear more about a different topic, just reply to let us know. If you have specific questions, please contact your employer or EIG attorney.