Weekly Report
Summary: The Latin American region, as well as the rest of the world, seems to understand that the new normal will be with us for a long time, so they have initiated an aggressive turn to reopening frontiers and so, the economy.
Argentina
723,132 positive cases and 16,113 deaths.
Buenos Aires is slowly coming out of complete lockdown, but this measure will depend on whether the amount of cases continues to decrease. The next deadline is October 10th, 2020. Essential industries are allowed to work as well as manufacturing industries as long as they respect the sanitary protocol and provide a private commuting system for all workers. As from October 1st, frontiers began to reopen. All arriving nationals or residents will need to sign a sworn declaration confirming that they do not present COVID-19 symptoms and will comply with a 14-day quarantine by downloading an app, which will be used by the government to monitor their behavior. Special permits need to be renewed if people need to leave their homes. Inspections are taking place on all major highways. Limited outdoor activities are authorized according to the policies and guidelines of each jurisdiction. Prevention protocols must be implemented at the workplace and also for anyone going out complying with the use of face masks, recommendations of hygiene and social distancing. As from July 27th, moving companies in the province of Buenos Aires are authorized to deliver household goods as long as they have a special permit. Deliveries can only take place on weekends. Realtors are allowed to work as from July 27th, as well as home maintenance services. The major train and subway terminals in Buenos Aires have thermo-graphic cameras to detect passengers with high fever, and you need to book in advance your seat to travel by train. Schools and universities continue to be closed. Classes are being delivered virtually in most establishments. Some national parks are opening up and runners in the Capital of Buenos Aires can go out in the evenings. Banks are open, and transactions can be made but only with previous appointments. Public and Administrative offices, as well as Immigration offices are closed in Buenos Aires and the Province of Buenos Aires until further notice.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
They are closed in Buenos Aires and will be until October 10th, at least. The amount of COVID cases in the provinces is increasing so processes are being put on hold in there.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
Yes. The extension of Temporary Residencies can be requested online. Once documentation is uploaded onto the immigration platform, authorities issue the Certificate of Residencia Precaria together with an appointment to complete the renewal process, at which applicant will need to show original documents, and his/her biometrics will be taken. If appointments are rescheduled, the Certificate of Residencia Precaria will automatically be extended.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
All visas are being renewed automatically every 30 days. Even though and if possible, we are initiating the online renewal process for the Temporary Residencies to comply with the immigration regulations.
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
All temporary residencies are being automatically renewed every 30 days.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
No, but in the case of the Temporary Residencies, we strongly suggest the renewal process to be initiated online to obtain an appointment by the National Immigration Office.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
No.
Aruba
3,872 positive cases and 25 deaths.
The Government has adjusted the curfew to be effective from 10:00 pm until 5:00 am. All establishments must be closed by 9:00 pm until further notice.
Current measures from last week will be kept in place, including the following entry requirements:
Recommendations in effect as of August 4th to combat local transmission:
· Masks are being strongly encouraged for all locations where maintaining social distancing of 1.5 meters is not possible.
· All indoor team sports and all contact sports have been suspended.
· Restaurants can have a maximum of 4 persons per table, and tables must be at least 1.5 meters apart.
· Bars and nightclubs can only serve persons at tables of a maximum of four persons, and tables must be at least 1.5 meters apart. No dancing will be allowed.
· Casinos will have strict protocols that will be enforced.
· Ban on gatherings of more than four persons in public places. An exception is made for weddings with suitable permits. This ban does not apply to hotels.
· All workplaces must enforce a minimum distance of 1.5 meters between persons, and if this is not possible, shields and appropriate barriers must be in place.
· Churches and memorial services protocols in force during the previous lockdown will need to be followed. Memorial services will have a limit maximum of 25
There are no current plans to close the borders despite the increase in the number of contagious.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
No.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
Yes, all of them.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
They can be filed with the actual restrictions of personnel.
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
Each case is analyzed separately.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
No official information is available.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
No official information is available.
Barbados
190 positive cases and 7 deaths.
Visitors traveling from the U.K., in addition to the mandatory COVID-19 PCR test taken at least 72-hours before arrival in Barbados, will now also be required to undergo a second COVID-19 PCR test in Barbados, five days after the date of their first accepted test. Until the second test is completed, visitors from the U.K. will remain in hotels designated by the Ministry of Health and Wellness, and their movement will be restricted within that property. They will also be monitored for seven days after arriving in Barbados, including daily temperature checks and reports to their assigned health officer.
Authorities announced that new travel restrictions have been implemented as of Monday, amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Under the new measures, travelers will face different restrictions based on the level of risk of the country that they have traveled or transited through in the 21 days before they arrive in Barbados. Travelers entering Barbados from high-risk countries must take a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test and wait at the airport until the test results are received. Those who test negative are required to undergo a 14-day quarantine period. However, they will have the option to take a second test 5-7 days after the first and will be permitted to leave quarantine following a second negative test result. Travelers entering Barbados from moderate-risk countries will be required to take a PCR test. If a negative result is produced, they will then be permitted to leave the airport. However, they will be subject to daily health monitoring for 14-days following their arrival. As with travelers from high-risk countries, those undergoing health monitoring will have the option to take a second PCR test 5-7 days after their arrival and, if negative, will no longer be subject to control. Travelers entering Barbados from low-risk countries must present evidence of a negative PCR test taken within the last 72 hours or take a test on arrival. Those with negative results will then be permitted to leave the airport. Travelers entering Barbados from Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are all permitted to leave the airport without taking a PCR test. Face masks are mandatory inside the airport at all times and a health screening questionnaire must be completed by all travelers at least 24 hours before arrival.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
No.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
Yes, the usual ones.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
A usual, but bearing in mind that public servants are working in reduced shifts.
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
Each case is analyzed separately.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
Each case is analyzed separately.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
No official information is available.
Bolivia
134,223 positive cases and 7,900 deaths.
Under Supreme Decree 4309 issued by the Bolivian Government on August 20th, 2020, returning Bolivian citizens, Bolivian residents, and other foreign passengers are no longer required to quarantine at a designated hotel when they arrive in Bolivia. Currently, only Boliviana de Aviacion (BOA) is operating flights between Bolivia and the U.S. When passengers buy their tickets to Bolivia, they will no longer be required to pay upfront for seven days of stay at a designated hotel for quarantine. Passengers may be asked by the airline to complete an additional sworn medical statement, which should be submitted to the Regional Bolivian Consulate before traveling. Passengers may be subject to additional quarantine restrictions and health screenings upon arrival and should inquire with the airline or local authorities at their destination. International flights started to be admitted, and the most critical cuts on economic sectors have been lifted.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
No.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
No.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
Renewal/extensions will be resumed as soon as the quarantine has finished.
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
Each case is analyzed separately. There is no official information about a standard policy.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
Unknown.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
No official information is available.
Brazil
4,745,464 positive cases and 142,058 deaths.
The Government published the Ordinance No. 456, on September 24th, 2020, exceptionally and temporarily restricting the entrance of immigrants in Brazil by sea and land transportation, regardless of their nationality, for a period of 30 (thirty) days. The restriction on foreigners entering the country does not apply to:
1. Brazilian, born or naturalized;
2. Immigrant with permanent residence, for a fixed or indefinite period, in Brazilian territory;
3. Foreign professional on a mission at the service of an international organization, as long as duly identified;
4. Foreign employee accredited by the Brazilian Government;
5. Foreigner in the condition of:
a) spouse, partner, son, father or curator of a Brazilian;
b) whose entry is authorized explicitly by the Brazilian Government in a clear public interest or for humanitarian reasons;
c) bearer of the National Migration Registry.
6. Charge transport.
In the event of entry into the country by road, other land or waterway transportation, the exceptions discussed above (2, 5a and 5b) do not apply to foreigners from the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. Traffic by border residents in twin cities also does not apply to foreigners from the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. For maritime matters, the restrictions of this decree do not prevent:
· The entry, by air or waterway, of a maritime crew, to exercise specific functions on board a vessel or platform operating in jurisdictional waters, provided that the migratory requirements appropriate to their condition are observed, including that of having an entry visa, when the Brazilian legislation requires this;
· The landing, authorized by the Federal Police, of maritime crew for medical assistance or for connection of air return to the country of origin related to operational issues or the termination of an employment contract (provided that the specific conditions of the standard are observed).
Exceptionally, the foreigner who is in a land frontier country and needs to cross it to board a flight back to his country of residence may enter Brazil under an authorization from the Federal Police and (i) go directly to the airport; (ii) based on previous official approval from the embassy or consulate of your country of residence, (iii) upon presentation of the corresponding air tickets.
Also, the restrictions of this Ordinance do not prevent foreigners from entering Brazil by air, once provided the appropriate migratory requirements to their condition, and comply with all law requirements, including a specific visa, when required by the Brazilian immigration law. The foreign passenger on a visit condition to Brazil for a short stay (up to 90 days) must present to the transportation’s company, prior to board, proof of health insurance valid in Brazil, which covers for the entire period of the trip. The mentioned insurance must cover health expenses and meet the following minimum requirements: (i) validity period corresponding to the scheduled period of the trip (complete duration); (II) minimum coverage of R $ 30,000.00 Reais; and (III) be issued in Portuguese, Spanish or English.
The conditions presented by this Ordinance could be revised at any time, and it could also be complemented, changed, or extended, considering the technical assessment made by ANVISA. Failure to comply with these measures will result in civil, administrative, and criminal liability, as well as immediate repatriation or deportation and the disqualification of an asylum claim. The Ordinance # 419 issued on August 26th, 2020 was revoked.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
No.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
Yes, the usual ones.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
As usual.
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
Each case is analyzed separately.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
Only if they do not fix their immigration status.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
Only if they do not fix their immigration status.
Chile
459,671 positive cases and 12,725 deaths.
The health emergency period was extended until October 30th. Any person arriving in Chile will have to afford a 14-day quarantine. This restriction can be avoided only by showing a COVID-19 negative test, which can be obtained by following the standard process, starting with a medical order, which will request a local clinic to complete the test at home or hotel. The results will take approximately seven days to be issued, and during this time, the person is not allowed to leave his/her location. A progressive cancellation of the lockdown in some locations continues. Santiago, Providencia, Ñuñoa, Las Cones, Vitacura, and Bernechea passed to Phase Two with free mobility from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm Restriction to move between different localities is still active. Mobility permission is granted only for employees of essential businesses. Borders closed until October 30th. Admission is permitted solely for Chileans and residents with valid RUT. Some consulates started receiving requests (Germany, Argentina, Australia, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, France, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Spain, USA, UK). The country has implemented the Sanitary Passport (“Pasaporte Sanitario”), which is a sword document that is delivered to all people from abroad and those who circulate through the national territory and enter an area with Sanitary Customs by land, air or sea. It is mandatory for those who arrive in the country from abroad, who must complete a form and then receive an email with the Sanitary Passport. This email contains information that can only be seen with a QR code that Health personnel reviews in the established sanitary lines. The document must be requested within 24 hours before traveling to Chile. People must complete an affidavit, to present at the airport upon arrival, where they must also undergo a temperature control and answer questions from the health authority.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
Yes.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
Yes, the online processes are in force.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
Permanent Residency renewals can be submitted online, as well as Visa renewal except from Visa Mercosur.
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
Up to this moment must do the regular renewal process or get a fine later.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
Yes, if they do not renew their status.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
Applying fines to companies is being reviewed on a case by case basis. It is possible that if it is the first time for this particular company, the fine can be avoided, but the record remains.
Colombia
818,203 positive cases and 25,641 deaths.
The following airports were reopened: Bogota, Cali, Medellin, and Cartagena. The countries allowed to travel from are: USA, Dominican Republic, Brazil, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Guatemala. Special conditions and protocols might apply for traveling to Colombia, so it is strongly suggested to consult your travel agency for more information.
The health emergency period was extended until November 30th, but the mandatory quarantine has been replaced by specific measures such as restrictions for cinemas, theaters, bars, gyms, and other indoor activities. The primary industries have started working, and hotels & restaurants are already open. Offices are still limited to work from home, and schools remain closed with online classes.
The Immigration Office has informed through an official statement on virtual channels the following:
· Immigration Office continues to work on the implementation of biosafety protocols. It has been created the online application CHECK-MIG, which will serve to reduce service times at the migratory points of entry and exit from Colombia. This is aimed at improving safety and preventing the spread of COVID-19. This tool will allow the traveler to enter and register, 24 hours before their trip, and up to 1 hour before the closing of their flight. When registering the information, the traveler will receive a confirmation email in their email. More details in the link: https://apps.migracioncolombia.gov.co/pre-registro/public/preregistro.jsf
· It is estimated that the Immigration Office will partially resume its activities during September and October, with a maximum capacity of 30% in each Migration office.
· IDs can be requested with the electronic visa itself. To prevent the foreigner or his proxies have to go personally to pick it up, it will be sent.
The opening of international flights is still suspended, and it is estimated that the activities of international commercial flights will return to normal within the next month. However, the final decision is in the hands of the National Government. Humanitarian flights will continue to operate normally in accordance with the provisions of the National Government. It is strongly advised for all foreigners to have all required documentation ready to be submitted. The Government approved the opening of 15 airports located in the main cities of Colombia, but only for domestic flights. It is expected that international flights will be authorized by the end of September, but the date has not yet been defined. The health emergency period was extended until November 30th, but the mandatory quarantine has been replaced by specific measures such as restrictions for cinemas, theaters, bars, gyms, and other indoor areas. The primary industries have started working, and hotels & restaurants are already open. Offices are still limited to work from home, and schools remain closed with online classes.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
No.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
Yes, the usual ones.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
As usual.
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
Expiration date will be extended.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
Only if they do not update their immigration status within the established periods.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
There is no official information available.
Costa Rica
73,714 positive cases and 861 deaths.
The government updated the list of allowed countries to enter Costa Rica, as follows: UK, Canada, EU, México, Jamaica and the US restricted to: New York, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, Connecticut, Maryland, Virginia, DC, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Colorado, Washington, Oregon, Wyoming, Arizona, Nuevo México, Michigan, Rhode Island, Ohio and California.
The Immigration Office announced that will reopen to the public on December 1st, 2020, and all requests will need to be scheduled through its website, starting on October 19th.
Requirements to enter CR as a tourist or Business Traveller are:
· Insurance policy
· Negative COVID-19 test issued within 72 hours before arrival
· Health form completed
· The tourist might enter from an authorized country region
· If the tourist is from one of the authorized states of the US, he/she must show an ID card or driving license.
Requirements to enter CR as a citizen or resident:
· Health form completed
· Quarantine as established by the CR Government once they enter the country
· Foreign residents must show their DIMEX with no longer of three months of expiration
Borders reopened on August 1st with some limitations in the number of flights being received, as well as the nationalities allowed. Flights from the European Union, United Kingdom and Canada resumed at the Juan Santamaria (Alajuela) and Daniel Oduber (Guanacaste) airports. Visiting foreigners with flights of origin from these three destinations must also fulfill the following requirements to be able to entry Costa Rica:
· Fill out a digital epidemiological form upon arrival in Costa Rica.
· Have taken a COVID-19 test forty-eight hours prior the entering Costa Rica, which must be negative and carry out its result.
· You must purchase travel insurance that covers eventual incidents such as lodging (in case you cannot leave the country) as well as medical care in case you get sick and needed medical assistance.
· Abide by the health protocols that are indicated when you arrive at one of the two authorized airports.
· Must have facial protection like a face mask or face shield.
A clarification of the Government has been executed: if any resident leaves the country and intent to enter while the borders are closed, then this person will immediately lose the legal status, but if any resident leaves the country and enters once borders are reopened, then this person will not lose the legal status. Legal status extended until November 18th for all visitors who cannot leave the country due to the COVID-19 situation.
The entire land border cord, both in the north and in the south of the country, is also declared as an authorized immigration control post, so that the police officials can make rejections when the foreign person does not meet the entry requirements demanded by current legislation, present an impediment to enter the country or be caught trying to evade immigration control or entering a place not authorized for this purpose, ordering their immediate return to the country of origin. The Government informed that starting on September 23rd, any company from the agricultural, agro-export or agro-industrial sectors that hire any foreigner with no legal documentation in hands or in-process will be fined.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
Yes.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
Yes, work permits and refugee’s process.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
The renewals can be executed through the Bank of Costa Rica and the Costa Rican Post Office, or B) By prior appointment in the Immigration Offices (once open)with an additional term that must not exceed September 18th, 2020
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
Visa extension is granted by the government until November 18th, 2020
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
No, if they regularize their situation within legal terms, including exceptions decreed by the government.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
No, if they regularize their situation within legal terms, including exceptions decreed by the government.
Curazao
364 positive cases and 1 death.
In connection to opening the borders to Western European countries, the Government of Curacao has released the approved list of countries that are allowed to enter into Curacao as of July 1st, 2020. The list of approved countries is divided into medium risk countries and low-risk countries.
NOTE: Borders with Aruba and Sint Maartin had been temporarily closed due to a high increase of COVID-19 cases.
As of July 16th, 2020 passengers traveling from the following countries are welcome to visit Curacao:
Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Bonaire, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Jamaica, Martinique, Montserrat, St. Eustatius, Saba, Sint Maarten, Saint Martin Saint Barthelemy, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Trinidad & Tobago, St. Vincent and Grenadines, British Virgin Islands.
Travelers departing out of any of these islands have to take these two mandatory steps:
· Complete the digital immigration card online before departure at dicardcuracao.com.
· Within 48 hours before departure, you need to digitally fill out the Passenger Locator Card (PLC) and carry a printed document of proof with you. You may do so at dicardcuracao.com.
From July 1st, 2020, a maximum of 10,000 passengers will be welcomed to the island so that there will be minimal pressure on the local health system. As Curacao’s reopening happens in phases, we look forward to welcoming visitors out of the following Countries (updated July 16th):
Austria, Belgium, Canada, China, Cuba, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Guyana, Hong Kong, Hungary, Netherlands, Norway, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Turks and Caicos, United Kingdom.
Before your departure, you have to take these two mandatory steps on dicardcuracao.com:
· Complete the digital immigration card online before departure.
· Within 48 hours before departure, you need to digitally fill out the Passenger Locator Card (PLC) and carry a printed document of proof with you
Each visitor entering Curaçao will need to show a negative result from a certified COVID-19 PCR-test and carry a printed document of proof with them. The test is taken max. 72 hours before departure at an accredited laboratory. You may contact your general practitioner for a referral to the nearest institution. You will be required to upload the negative test results of the COVID-19 PCR-test on dicardcuracao.com before departure.
Please note the following entry conditions for all travelers:
· You have not traveled to another country where there is a high-risk of COVID-19 infections or have been in contact with a person who tested positively for COVID-19 within 14 days prior to arrival. If this is the case, you will be placed in mandatory quarantine.
· You must carry a printed document of proof of the mandatory steps at all times during your travel.
· You must be adequately insured for medical care and any additional costs if you are quarantined or become ill during your stay.
· No cruise passengers are currently admitted.
If you do not meet the above conditions, you may be quarantined on arrival. This is entirely at your own expense.
During your stay in Curaçao:
If you are tested positive for COVID-19 during your stay in Curaçao, you will be quarantined immediately. All the tourist facilities follow ‘A Dushi Stay, the Healthy Way’ guidelines to guarantee safety for visitors and staff while making you feel welcome in a relaxed and safe environment. If you are in Curaçao and you start to show any symptoms related to COVID-19 (dry cough, fever, tiredness, sore throat, headache, loss of taste or smell) you are to immediately contact the health authority (GGD) by calling 9345. Visitors will be asked to practice frequent hand hygiene and will have access to handwashing facilities with soap, single-use paper towels or automatic dryers for drying and alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Distancing measures are in place in all public spaces on the island. That means a 2 meter (6 feet) distance between people is to be kept at all times. In case the 2 meters (6 feet) distance cannot be maintained, visitors are asked to wear face masks. Restaurants, bars, beach clubs and other hospitality facilities are open for business adhering to regular opening hours. Guests are requested to make reservations in advance. Curacao has not yet announced when flights to and from the United States will resume, but most U.S. airlines have canceled flights until August 2020 at the earliest. All businesses are operational. Schools will reopen in September.
Dominican Republic
111,666 positive cases and 2,098 deaths.
The State of Emergency was reactivated. Curfew hours have been established again from Monday through Friday from 7:00 pm to 5:00 am and Saturdays and Sundays from 5:00 pm to 5:00 am. Borders continue open for all travelers. Suspension of School instruction until further notice. Suspension of massive gatherings until further notice (restaurants only open for delivery and take out). Commercial activities have been reactivated but operate with limitations and restrictions. Many corporations continue to work from home and with flexible schedules. Everyone is expected to use face masks when outside.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
No.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
All.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
As usual but delays are expected.
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
If a traveler enters with an expired visa or residence, and did not initiate renewal process before July 30th, he/she will have to pay a penalty.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
Yes, if the renewal process is not filed before July 30th.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
Yes, if the renewal process is not filed before July 30th.
Ecuador
134,965 positive cases and 11,280 deaths.
The country continues in the epidemiologic “traffic light” phase, which is controlled locally by city. This means, that each mayor/local authorities are now in control as of when each city will change the “traffic light” color for businesses, retail and travel. “Red” color means everything is still closed for the public; only food delivery and essential food markets are opened. Martial Law from 2:00 pm until 5:00 am is enforced. No public transportation. All boarders are to remain closed; hence airports are closed during this traffic light color (“Red”). Ministry of Foreign Affairs is closed, so no visas are being issued. “Orange/Yellow” color means businesses will split the workforce with only 50% of its capacity, and the rest is to remain to telework. Martial Law will extend from 6:00 pm until 5:00 am. Transportation will renew only with 30% of its capacity. Retail will reopen with 30% of occupancy capacity. “Green” color means the workforce will return with 70% capacity known as the new normal way of social distancing. Car circulation will be defined with even or odd with the last number of the registration plates. Martial law will extend from 9:00 pm until 5:00 am. Businesses and retail can operate with an occupancy of 50%. Airports are reopening operation, still very few flights are being operated. Guayaquil and Quito are operating in yellow light. As per the decision of the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE), on the afternoon of Friday, August 14th, international travelers arriving in the country by air and presenting a negative PCR test will no longer have to perform mandatory preventive isolation. The test must have been carried out within 10 days before entering the country. Quick tests are not supported.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
No, they are operating at 30% of its capacity.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
No.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
No cases are being managed at this time. All immigration processes are on hold.
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
Immigration status will be set on hold.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
The Government has agreed to waive penalties while in State of emergency, but we do not know for how long penalties will continue to be waivered after the State of emergency is removed.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
No official information is available
El Salvador
28,981 positive cases and 839 deaths.
Borders reopened for commercial flights. Both at airports and land borders, any foreigner entering El Salvador is required to bring a PCR test not older than 72 hours.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
Yes. Pre-booking required.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
No.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
Renewals cannot be submitted at this time.
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
No official information available.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
It is not known for the time being. The government has not yet decided. Due to the exceptional circumstances, It is believed (but not confirmed) that there will be some kind of flexibility and understanding from the government).
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
No official information available.
Guatemala
90,263 positive cases and 3,234 deaths.
Borders reopened on September 18th, 2020. Any foreigner entering Guatemala is required to bring a PCR test not older than 72 hours. All ongoing/incomplete immigration processes of foreigners that were left due to the virus spread are on hold. Until now, no prolongation for visitors visas due to the COVID-19 situation. Quarantine extended with a curfew from 04:00 pm until 4:00 am. The use of surgical masks is mandatory countrywide while in the streets. Government facilities are open and working attending limited numbers of users.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
Immigration offices are working on a limited schedule, and only the applicant can enter the facility. A maximum of 25 people can stay simultaneously.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
Three services can be handled online: 1) Schedule a passport appointment for nationals, carriers, diplomatic corps and cases previously authorized by the Immigration offices; 2) Consultation of precautionary detention status; 3) Consultation of residence and visa status of processes initiated before March 5th.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
As normal but aligned with social distancing rules.
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
Foreign persons are allowed to leave the Republic of Guatemala using the land routes, under their strict responsibility, through the border of the states next to Guatemala, who allows it. The foreign persons who entered the country in a regular way for tourism or business purposes can remain in the country while the Public Calamity Decree lasts. The foreign persons who remain irregularly before March 5th, need to fix their immigration status by going to the immigration office central building.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
Only if they do not fix their immigration status.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
Only if the foreigners do not fix their immigration status.
Guyana
2,787 positive cases and 78 deaths.
Nationwide, persons are asked to confine their activities to the extent possible to their home and yard. Social activities are restricted to include hosting/attending/visiting: cinemas, private parties, sporting events, banquets, bars, spas, gyms, wake/vigils, or civic organization meetings. Water sports/recreational activities are not allowed on the rivers, beaches, swimming pools, and internal waters. Physical exercise is permitted in public spaces for 90 minutes/day, but only if the participants can maintain a physical distance of six feet from each other. Indoor religious services are authorized for up to 25% of the building capacity, with 45-minute intervals between each service for sanitation/cleaning. Aside from religious services, authorized gatherings must not exceed 10 people. Masks are required to be worn in all public spaces. Banks, grocery shops, gas stations, and various operations are permitted to remain open between 6:00 am and 5:00 pm Schools will be closed for face-to-face learning until further notice. The curfew is in effect nationwide from 6:00 pm until 6:00 am. Cheddi Jagan International Airport (GEO) in Timehri and Eugene F. Correia International Airport (OGL) in Georgetown are both partially closed. Only certain flights arriving from the USA and Europe are allowed with special permits. Arriving passengers will be submitted to a 14-day quarantine. Please consult on the airport webpage for flights schedule and destinations (https://cjairport-gy.com/). It is possible that the airport will start regular schedules for all flights starting from October 1st.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
Yes.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
No.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
All immigration processes are suspended.
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
No official information released.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
No official information released.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
No official information released.
Honduras
75,537 positive cases and 2,301 deaths.
Borders reopened. 14-day Mandatory quarantine for residents arriving. All ongoing/incomplete immigration processes of foreigners that were left due to the virus spread are on hold.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
No. The Immigration Office is open with a restricted schedule. Pre-booked appointments are mandatory.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
Yes, almost all of them.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
As usual.
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
It is not known for the time being. The Government has not yet decided. In case a foreigner is checked, the local authorities are showing relative flexibility and understanding due to the exceptional situation.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
If the permit or visa expires during the immigration office closing period, they are exempt from the penalty.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
If the permit or visa expires during the immigration office closing period, they are exempt from the penalty.
Mexico
733,717 positive cases and 76,603 deaths.
Since June 1st (compulsory preventive isolation ended), Mexico is in phase 3 of its reopening plan, where a traffic light system will determine the operation of the activities. “Red” indicates that only essential work activities will be allowed: including mining, construction, and transportation manufacturing. “Orange” means that it will increase the permitted non-essential activities, respecting public health and work measures. In “yellow” the activities will be expanded including those considered non-essential without restriction. Finally, when the traffic light is “green”, there will be no restrictions (in the region or the State). Public health and work measures will continue; Classes will resume, and essential and non-essential activities will operate.
· States in red light: None
· States in orange light: Baja California, Baja California Sur, CDMX, Coahuila, Colima, Durango, Estado de México, Guanajuato, Guerrero, Hidalgo, Jalisco, Michoacán, Nayarit, Nuevo León, Puebla, Oaxaca, Querétaro, San Luis Potosí, Sinaloa, Tabasco, Veracruz, Yucatán y Zacatecas.
· States in Yellow light: Campeche, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Morelos, Quintana Roo, Sonora, , Tamaulipas y Tlaxcala.
Airports and land borders are not closed, except for countries with closed borders, such as the United States, until further notice (tentative date: July 21st). Travelers are not required to quarantine upon entering the country; they are only subject to random health checks on international flights and cruises and must provide the following information upon arrival (click here):
• Explanation of where you have traveled or have been residing in the last six weeks
• Contact information, full name, phone, age
• Declare if you have been in contact with someone with the virus. If the answer is positive, they ask for more information about it.
• Seat number you had on the flight
The authorities warn that in case of not complying with the de-escalation plan according to the sanitary traffic light system, Mexico could return to confinement. Statistics such as state hospital occupation, number of infections and behavior of the epidemiological curve are taken into account to establish the color of the traffic light. All States are subject to revert to red or tighten sanitary measures, if necessary.
Destination services in the country are available, with specific security measures (healthy distance, sanitation of spaces, use of facemasks, etc.) and with limitations in terms of the number of people (2 clients maximum per service) and duration of meetings in person.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
No. As of today, The National Institute of Migration (INM) continues to be open to the public as it is considered essential for national security. However, as a safety measure due to COVID-19 they currently have less staff working at their offices. As a result, overall immigration approval times could vary due to the current workload of the immigration authorities in Mexico.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
Yes. It’s possible to check online the immigration process’ status. Also, it’s possible to schedule a Consulate Appointment online.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
On May 27th, the Federal Government has released a series of statements regarding timeframes applicable for Immigration processes. The objective of these statements is to promote social distancing by avoiding unnecessary visits to the National Institute of Migration (INM) and Mexican Consulates abroad. It states that specific timeframes applicable for Immigration processes are temporarily suspended from June 1st until the Health Ministry deems safe. The processes that were due on these dates will be exempt and considered as non-working days. This agreement covers Temporary and Permanent Visa holders. For Renewal cases, we will maintain the same strategy that we have had until today. This will ensure that every renewal request is planned ahead of time and prior to the card´s expiration date as well as filed in a timely manner
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
Timeframes applicable for Immigration processes are temporarily suspended from June 1st until the Health Ministry deems safe. The renewals that are due on these dates will be exempt and considered as non-working days. This agreement covers Temporary and Permanent Visa holders. However, the National Institute of Migration (INM) is open. Therefore, renewal processes are available for all assignees.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
The Federal Government will announce at some point that the timeframes applicable for Immigration processes are valid again. If an assignee doesn’t renew his/her card once the suspension is over, then he would risk his/her legal status in the country. At this point, the assignee would have to request for a regularization.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
No, if they comply with temporary regulations to apply for the renewal.
Panama
111,277 positive cases and 2,348 deaths.
As from September 28th, it was allowed the reopening of retail trade, shopping centers, restaurants, professional services, administrative services, national aviation (local flights), the racetrack without public/spectators, from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, Monday through Saturday. It was also announced a new sanitary protocol to be mandatory for any national, foreigner or resident entering in Panama, effective from October 12th, as follows:
· Negative PCR test to be requested on entry, with no more than 48 hours of issuing. If shown, then no quarantine will be imposed.
· For those with no test, a quick one can be done at the airport (cost covered by the traveler). If positive, then a 7-day mandatory quarantine will be imposed to be spent in a hotel or hospital. After 7 days, a second test will take place. If also positive, then 7 extra days of quarantine will have to be completed.
As from September 21st, reopening of federative sports activities without public/spectators (football, baseball, basketball, etc.) is allowed.
As from September 14th, the mobility restriction by gender has been suppressed. Curfew remains from 11:00 pm to 5:00 am from Monday to Saturday, and total curfew on Sundays.
As from September 7th, it is authorized the reopening of some economic activities: construction industry and related sectors, and also the reopening of activities in Panama Pacifico, Colon free zone, and other free zones. Tailoring, dressmaking and shoe stores, car wash, private marinas, and sport fishing. Panamanians and residents must present the results of a PCR test made within 96 hours before entering Panama.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
It was reopened on June 15th for the public. Labor offices for work permits reopened from June 15th attention by appointments and online consultations.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
No, only the follow up of the cases already filed.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
We begin with the contact of the assignee, share requirements, prepare Power of Attorney, Sworn Declaration, receive electronic copies, prepare labor letter, PoA for company and any other document need, so when we are back in office, we just pick up documents, and coordinate filing.
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
No fines will be imposed for expired visas, but must review case by case.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
No, if expired between March 12th and August 30th.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
No, if they expiration falls between the above mentioned period. If the expiration was before the closure, there might be a fine, but will not count during the period of March-August.
Paraguay
39,432 positive cases and 818 deaths.
As per last Government decree (number 4066), as recommended by the Ministry of Health, current quarantine phase in Asunción, Central Department, Alto Parana, Caaguazu, and Concepción is extended until October 4th. Some of the most important measures: free circulation from 5:00 am to 8:00 pm; restaurants opened from 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm except for Fridays and Saturdays that they can open up to midnight; masses and religious services are limited to a maximum of 20 persons; only virtual cultural events; restrictions for sports and gyms according to the kind of activity and number of authorized persons at the same time; restricted hours and number of employees in official entities and corporations; mandatory use of face masks, among other measures.
The Public Health system is still working fine but had to use the private sector in some specific instances. They are still building and opening new areas of COVID attention in Asunción and other main cities.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
No.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
No.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
They can be done, but take longer because of the overload of pending requests and the newly added requirements.
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
The latest statement released indicates that all the documents and dates due after March 13th are to be considered valid until the government offices officially opened to public.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
No, unless they do not renew/regularize their status at this point.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
No, they are not. But since the government offices started working, they must start the process to regularize their situation.
Peru
808,714 positive cases and 32,324 deaths.
As from September 28th, 2020, the following measures are in place:
The Government has extended the state of national emergency and targeted quarantine, focused on some provinces of the country, until October 31st.
The targeted quarantine —from October 1 to 31 — will be in the provinces of Abancay (Apurimac region), Huamanga (Ayacucho region), and Huanuco (Huanuco region). Compulsory social immobilization on Sundays will be in force all day long, and the mandatory social immobilization (curfew) will start at 8:00 pm, unlike the rest of the country, where it is set to begin at 11:00 pm.
The targeted quarantine measure will be lifted in Cusco, Moquegua, Puno, and Tacna regions from October 1 to 31. However, on Sundays, compulsory social immobilization will be in force all day long in these regions. Moreover, in areas that are not under targeted quarantine or curfew, people are allowed go out, perform activities, and do sports, as long as they comply with health protocols, social distancing rules, the use of face masks, hand hygiene, and the ban on the use of private vehicles.
Also, social gatherings, including those held at home, and family visits, remain prohibited since they are considered hot spots for the spread of COVID-19. The children under 12 years of age are allowed one hour of supervised outdoor activity per day if accompanied by an adult, within 500 meters of their home. People aged above 65 will remain under mandatory social solation. Phase 4 of the Economic Reactivation will partially begin on October 1st. Restaurants and related services will have a maximum capacity of 50%.
International flights would resume on October 5, subject to the proper health controls. In the first stage, Peru will restart flights to Chile, Mexico, Ecuador, Colombia, and Brazil (only Sao Paulo). The passengers wishing to travel abroad will have to comply with specific requirements, such as possessing a negative COVID-19 molecular test.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
Yes, all the Immigration offices are closed until the end of the State of Emergency decreed by the Government.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
Yes, the Immigration offices will allow the change of migratory quality, residence renewal, special travel permit, sign contracts permit, registration in the Central Registry of Foreigners; and other services.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
Online.
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
The immigration office granted a regularization period of 45 days, starting after the finalization of the emergency.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
Only if they do not regularize their situation within the granted period.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
Only if they do not regularize their situation within the granted period.
Suriname
4,836 positive cases and 102 deaths.
Suriname remains in partial lockdown. In effect, an 8:00 pm to 6:00 am curfew, and that all gatherings still for a maximum of five people only. All schools are closed. KLM is operating commercial flights from Paramaribo to Amsterdam. U.S. citizens departing Suriname are permitted to transit Schiphol airport, remain airside, and continue onward to the United States. However, passengers will not be allowed to exit the transit area. Passengers should have a confirmed onward flight to the U.S. before commencing travel. For any other case, borders and airports remain closed. The Government is working on reopening, tentative date Oct 1st.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
No.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
No.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
As usual..
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
Each case is analyzed separately.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
No official information released.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
No official information released.
Trinidad & Tobago
4,386 positive cases and 72 deaths.
Measures extended until October 11th. Face masks are required by law in all public places. Fixed penalties are in place for anyone not wearing a mask. Only children under eight years of age and drivers in vehicles by oneself are allowed to go without wearing a mask. All schools are closed until December 31st, 2020. Bars, beaches, rivers, casinos, private members clubs, cinemas, and gyms back to close due to the increase in the number of contagious. Restaurants are also closed for dine-in services, so only take out is available. The zoo and amusement parks also closed again. All contact sports are not allowed. Educational institutions will be closed until December. Transport goes back to operate at 50 percent capacity, while the congregation in public spaces was reduced from 25 to 10 people. Borders will remain closed for now. The traveling between islands is restricted to essentials.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
No.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
Appointment to be made online before visiting the office.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
Via online and office visits.
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
No official information.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
No official information.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
No official information.
Venezuela
73,528 positive cases and 614 deaths.
During this week, the local Government established a total quarantine. It is planned that they will keep the same protocol of what they call “7+7”, which means that one week there will be strict quarantine measures and the following one, a relaxed quarantine with the opening of some business areas. Free transit is still limited between states, and borders remain closed until further notice. The new school year started with virtual classes, and it is expected to continue like this until January 2021. Travel ban has been extended until October 12th, so all airports will remain closed. Only exceptional cases will be considered and must be authorized by the local government. The fuel crisis is still a problem; lack of fuel can be noticed in all gas stations countrywide.
FAQ
Are all of the Immigration Offices in your country closed?
Yes.
Is there any service online that can still process Work permits or Visas?
Only PCC requests and appointments for Apostille request. Nevertheless, appointments will be scheduled after the quarantine has finished.
How are you managing renewals/extensions?
All immigration processes are suspended. No renewals can be filed.
If an applicant's Visa cannot be renewed and he/she cannot travel due to the travel ban, what is the Government doing in regards to the immigration status?
His migratory status will be on hold until the end of the quarantine.
Are these applicants going to be penalized in the future for the overstay?
No official information released.
Are companies going to be penalized if they have employees without the proper status?
No official information released.