Coronavirus (COVID-19)

St. Kitts & Nevis Travel Requirements for Fully Vaccinated International Air Travelers

Basseterre, St. Kitts (April 30, 2021) – Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris announced a change to the travel requirements for those International Travelers, arriving by air, who have been fully-vaccinated against COVID-19 effective May 1, 2021.

International travelers who are fully vaccinated are required to submit their official Vaccination Record Card when completing their travel authorization process at www.knatravelform.kn, in addition to their 72-hour RT-PCR test and other required arriving passenger documentation.

Please see below the travel requirements for international air travelers effective May 1, 2021:

1. A traveler is considered fully vaccinated when two weeks have passed since receiving their second dose of a two dose vaccine series (Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna or AstraZeneca/Oxford) or two weeks after they have received a single dose vaccine (Johnson + Johnson). The traveler’s official COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card will be accepted as proof.
2. Fully vaccinated air travelers will be asked to “Vacation in Place” at a Travel Approved hotel for only nine (9) days vs. the current 14 days.
3. Effective May 20, 2021 fully vaccinated air travelers will be allowed to enter the destination’s sporting venues.
4. Traveler must complete the Travel Authorization Form on the national website (www.knatravelform.kn) and upload an official COVID-19 RT-PCR negative test result from a CLIA/CDC/UKAS approved lab accredited with ISO/IEC 17025 standard taken 72 hours prior to travel. For their trip, they should bring a copy of the negative COVID- 19 RT-PCR test and their COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card as proof of completion of their vaccination. Please note, acceptable COVID-19 PCR tests must be taken by nasopharyngeal sample. Self-samples, rapid tests, or home tests will be considered invalid.
5. Undergo a health screening at the airport which includes a temperature check and a health questionnaire. Upon arrival, if a fully vaccinated traveler is exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 during the health screening, they can be required to undergo a RT- PCR test at the airport at their own cost (150 USD).
6. All fully vaccinated air travelers are free to move throughout the Travel Approved hotel, interact with other guests and partake in hotel activities only.
7. Fully vaccinated air travelers staying beyond 9 days are required to be tested on day 9 (USD 150 visitors’ cost) of their stay and once their test is negative, they may integrate into the Federation participating in tours, attractions, restaurants, beach bars, retail shopping, etc.
8. Effective May 1, 2021 fully vaccinated air travelers are not required to submit an exit RT-PCR test. If a pre-departure test is still required for the country of destination, the RT-PCR test will be taken 72 hours prior to departure. Example: If a person is staying 7 days, their pre-departure test will be on day 4; if a person is staying 14 days, their pre-departure test will be taken on day 11.
9. Travel Approved hotels for international travelers are:

1. • Four Seasons
   • Golden Rock Inn
   • Marriott Vacation Beach Club
   • Montpelier Plantation & Beach
   • Paradise Beach
   • Park Hyatt
   • Royal St. Kitts Hotel
   • St. Kitts Marriott Resort

International travelers arriving by air who are not fully vaccinated must continue to abide by the following requirements: 

1. Complete the Travel Authorization Form on the national website (www.knatravelform.kn) and upload an official COVID 19 RT-PCR negative test result from a CLIA/CDC/UKAS approved lab accredited with ISO/IEC 17025 standard, taken 72 hours prior to travel. They should also bring a copy of the negative COVID 19 RT-PCR test for their trip. Please note, acceptable COVID-19 PCR tests must be taken by nasopharyngeal sample. Self-samples, rapid tests, or home tests will be considered invalid.
2. Undergo a health screening at the airport which includes a temperature check and a health questionnaire.
3. 1-7 days: visitors are free to move about the hotel property, interact with other guests and partake in hotel activities.
4. 8-14 days: visitors will undergo a RT-PCR test (USD 150, visitors’ cost) on day 7. If the traveler tests negative, on day 8 they are allowed, through the hotel’s tour desk, to book select excursions and access select destination sites.
5. 14 days or longer: visitors will need to undergo a RT-PCR test (USD 150, visitors’ cost) on day 14, and if they test negative the traveler will be allowed to integrate into St. Kitts and Nevis.
6. All travelers are required take a RT-PCR test (USD 150, visitors’ cost) 48 to 72 hours prior to departure. The RT-PCR test will be done on the hotel property, at the nurse’s station. The Ministry of Health will advise the respective hotel of the date and time for the traveler’s RT-PCR test before departure. Those travelers staying 72 hours or less, will complete the test upon arrival at RLB International Airport. If positive before departure, the traveler will be required to stay in isolation at their cost, at their respective hotel. If negative, travelers will proceed with departure on their respective date.

Upon arrival if a traveler’s RT-PCR test is outdated, falsified or if they are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 they will be required to undergo a RT-PCR test at the airport at their own cost.

International travelers who would like to stay at private rental home or condo must stay at a property that has been pre-approved as quarantine housing at their own cost, including security. Please submit request to info@stkittstourism.kn.

Curacao Adds Local Antigen Test To Entry Requirements

Willemstad – April 16th, 2021 – As of April 20th, travelers to Curaçao arriving from high-risk countries, who have not been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 6 months, are required to take an antigen test at a local laboratory on the third day of their stay.

Curaçao is currently focusing on decreasing the number of COVID-19 cases on the island. Simultaneously, local authorities are continuing their efforts to keep the island safe for both visitors and the local community. The requirement to take an antigen test on the third day of their stay is an additional measure as a result of these efforts.

The required third-day antigen test is required for all travelers entering Curaçao and is additional to the mandatory PCR test. The PCR test must be taken within 72 hours before departure from an accredited laboratory.

Making an appointment for the antigen test is an integrated step to successfully register for the Passenger Locator Card. This is the last step of the registration process on dicardcuracao.com. Travelers can choose between several local laboratories.

Dicardcuracao.com allows visitors to fill out the Digital Immigration Card, fill out the Passenger Locator Card within 48 hours of departure and upload the negative test result for the pre-departure PCR-test.

Please visit dicardcuracao.com for more information.

Travel steps summary 

Prior to departure, all travelers must follow these mandatory steps:

1. International visitors must complete the digital immigration card online. All travelers digitally fill out the immigration card.
2. All travelers must digitally fill out the Passenger Locator Card (PLC) 48 hours prior to your departure and carry a printed document of proof with you.
3. Upload a negative COVID-19 PCR test result. Travelers departing from a high-risk country will be required to upload a negative PCR test result from an accredited laboratory taken within 72 hours prior to departure at an accredited laboratory. The traveler is required to carry a printed/digital copy of proof.
4. Travelers departing from a high risk country are required to book a lab appointment to undergo a mandatory Antigen test on the 3rd day in Curaçao. Exemptions apply.

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Link: https://dicardcuracao.com/portal

Dushi Stay-app 

The local measures to protect both visitors and the population do not stand in the way of a relaxing holiday. By using the Dushi Stay app, visitors can see what measures have been taken as part of the local program “A Dushi Stay, the Healthy Way” and are kept informed of the current situation on the island. Download the app from Google Play or the App Store.

Link: https://www.curacao.com/en/article/travel-updates

Dominica’s Successful COVID Management

Roseau, Dominica – (April 14, 2021) For a small Caribbean island, Dominica has masterfully implemented arrival protocols that allow travellers to visit and enjoy the island, all while stopping the spread of Covid-19 to residents and visitors.  Through the synergies of efforts to stringent health and safety protocols, reinforced by an intensive primary health care program, and on island partner certifications, Dominica’s COVID cases have been low, well controlled and at a minimum. Currently 39% of the target population has been vaccinated while the drive continues within the communities to get a larger percentage of the population vaccinated. To date, 25% of the total population has been vaccinated.  Thankfully, Dominica has had no COVID related deaths, and zero community spread.

By way of strategic planning, Dominica offers visitors the opportunity to visit the island through its wonderful ‘Safe in Nature’ program. The Safe in Nature brand guarantees that visitors from high -risk destinations to Dominica have a managed experience throughout the first 5-7 days of arrival in Dominica and encompasses destination experiences to include land and water-based tours and incorporates the wellness attributes that are unique to Dominica.  It provides a “managed experience” within a so-called “tourism bubble” comprising accommodation, transport, attractions, spas, restaurants and water-based activities that have all been certified, ensuring that visitors always feel safe and welcomed while maintaining hygiene and safety protocols. Visitors from high-risk destinations will be tested upon the 5^th day. The program includes a concierge service provided by all certified Safe In Nature properties, that will guide guests through the entire process, including scheduling an appointment, coordinating payment ($40USD).  If  testing is not on-site, the host will arrange the transfer. Test results are currently being returned within 24-48 hours to comply with the 72-hour guidelines.

In addition, the island has been awarded the Safe Travels Stamp by the World Travel and Tourism Council which reassures that the destination’s health and safety protocols meet globally accepted standards. Dominica also offers visitors a Work in Nature extended stay visa programme for persons wishing to stay in Dominica for up to 18 months.  Complete details on the programme is available at www.windominica.gov.dm.

Dominica’s Safe in Nature program essentially focuses on vacation coupled with health and safety, a preferred combination for vacation seekers. Dominica affords its visitors with world renowned diving, secluded sites and attractions perfect for distancing, top class hiking, out of the ordinary romantic escapes, an indigenous Kalinago population, healthy and tasty cuisine to boost your immunity and so much more. Dominica is not only a vacation, but a discovery and travel to Dominica especially now, can be transformative and rejuvenating. If you are seeking to shed your cares and refuel your passions look no further than the island of Dominica, its uncrowded and safe to travel.

For additional information on Safe in Nature and Dominica’s Travel Protocols visit Dominica: (discoverdominica.com), view the video here. The journey starts here, Dominica Awaits!

For more information on Dominica, contact Discover Dominica Authority at +1 767 448 2045. Or, visit Dominica’s official website: www.DiscoverDominica.com, follow Dominica on Instagram and Facebook and take a look at our videos on YouTube.

Anguilla Updates Public Health Protocols For Visitors

The Valley, Anguilla, April 13^th, 2021:  Anguilla’s Executive Council has approved a COVID 19 Exit Strategy, comprising a series of revised entry protocols, some of which will become effective immediately, while others will be introduced in phases over the coming months. The strategy is designed to safely transition the island from this extended period of economic contraction towards generating the business activity needed to revitalize the economy.

“We recognize that the widespread distribution and administration of vaccine programs in our major source markets as well as here in Anguilla have profound implications for our tourism industry,” stated the Hon. Minister of Tourism, Mr. Haydn Hughes.  “As more people become vaccinated, and new infections begin to plateau, we believe that revisiting and updating our entry protocols is merited at this time.  As always, the health and protection of both our visitors and our residents is paramount, and we are once again taking a phased approach to the full and safe reopening of our island.”

“We worked diligently with the Ministry of Health to develop our protocols, which secured Anguilla’s position as the leading destination in the successful management and control of the pandemic,” declared the Hon. Parliamentary Secretary Tourism, Mrs. Quincia Gumbs-Marie. “We have continued this successful collaboration in designing our Exit Strategy, which will allow us to rebuild our industry and return to full employment as welcome our visitors back to Anguilla.”

The following measures came into effect on Monday, April 12^th, 2021:

• The stay in place mandate for international travelers who are fully vaccinated, with the final dose administered at least three weeks (21 days) prior to arrival, is reduced from 14 days to seven days.
• Persons will still be required to submit a test 3 – 5 days prior to their arrival, be tested on arrival and at the end of the quarantine period.
• Multi-generational families and/or groups with a mix of unvaccinated and vaccinated persons will all have to quarantine for a 10-day period, utilizing only approved short stay services.

• The Entry Application Fee for fully vaccinated visitors staying under 90 days in a villa or hotel is US$300 per individual, and $200 for each additional person.
• The Entry Application Fee for fully vaccinated returning residents or visitors who are staying in an approved private dwelling home is US$300 per individual, and $200 for each additional person.
• The Entry Application Fee for unvaccinated returning residents or visitors who are staying in an approved private dwelling home is US$600 per individual, and $200 for each additional person.

Effective May 1^st, the following protocols will apply:

• All persons traveling in groups (i.e more than 10 persons) must be fully vaccinated to enter and attend or conduct any mass gatherings in Anguilla, e.g. weddings, conferences, etc.
• Spa, gym and cosmetology services will be allowed if both guests and staff therapists/consultants are fully vaccinated, i.e. three weeks have passed since the final dose of an approved vaccine.
• All frontline hospitality workers, along with port and transportation staff are required to receive the COVID-19 vaccination (first dose by May 1).

“We have safely welcomed thousands of guests over the past five months, and we are confident that we will continue to do so under this amended regime,” declared Mr. Kenroy Herbert, Chairman of the Anguilla Tourist Board.  “Our visitors appreciate the extra steps we have taken to ensure their safety while enabling them to experience our exceptional tourism product.  There is tremendous interest in Anguilla, and we are seeing a significant increase in our arrivals; our forward bookings for this summer and particularly Winter 2021/22 are also very encouraging.”

It is estimated that 65% – 70% of Anguilla’s resident population will have been fully vaccinated by the end of June 2021, enabling the island to achieve herd immunity.  Starting on July 1^st, Anguilla will remove the fee and quarantine requirements for visitors who are fully vaccinated at least three weeks before arrival.  The entry protocols will be further revised in phases, leading to the elimination of all requirements by October 1^st, 2021.

Phase 1 runs from July 1^st through August 31^st, 2021:

• All visitors to Anguilla who are eligible to be vaccinated against COVID-19,  are required to be fully vaccinated at least three weeks before arrival (i.e. persons 18 and older).
• Fully vaccinated persons will not be tested upon arrival.
• Persons with evidence of full COVID-19 vaccination will not be required to quarantine on arrival if the final vaccine dose is administered at least three weeks before date of arrival.
• All persons entering Anguilla will be required to produce a negative COVID-19 test 3-5 days before entry.
• Multi-generational families and/or groups with a mix of individuals who are not eligible for the vaccine (i.e. children), will not need to quarantine, but they will need a negative PCR test 3-5 days ahead of arrival, and may be tested on arrival and subsequently during their stay.
• Unvaccinated returning residents will be required to:

–       Produce a negative COVID-19 test 3-5 days prior to arrival

–       Submit to a COVID-19 test on arrival

–       Quarantine for 10 days in approved accommodation

Phase 2 runs from September 1^st through September 30^th, 2021

• Unvaccinated returning residents will be required to:
  • Produce a negative COVID-19 test 3-5 days prior to arrival
  • Submit to a COVID-19 test on arrival
  • Quarantine for 7 days in approved accommodation

Phase 3, which signifies the culmination of the government’s COVID-19 Exit Strategy, comes into effect on October 1^st, 2021:

• The travel authorization application for entry will be removed.
• It will be the duty of all transport operators to ensure that their passengers have all the necessary documentation for entry including:
  • Evidence of completed COVID-19 vaccinations
  • Pre-arrival test for unvaccinated returning residents
• All Phase 2 provisions for unvaccinated persons remain in place.
• The legal requirements for businesses providing services to short stay guests (those operating in the bubble) will be removed entirely.

For travel information on Anguilla please visit the official website of the Anguilla Tourist Board: www.IvisitAnguilla.com/escape; follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/AnguillaOfficial; Instagram: @Anguilla_Tourism; Twitter: @Anguilla_Trsm, Hashtag: #MyAnguilla.

Barbados’ New COVID-19 Travel Protocols Take Effect May 8th

The Government of Barbados has updated its travel protocols required for entry to the country as it continues to manage the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and protect its citizens and visitors alike.

As a result, due to the global on-going vaccination process, there have been a few changes to the quarantine and COVID-19 testing processes.

Fully Vaccinated Travellers

The Ministry of Health and Wellness has approved the COVID-19 AstraZeneca, Moderna, Pfizer[1]BioNTech or Johnson & Johnson vaccinations for entry into Barbados and effective May 8th, 2021, travellers who are considered to be fully vaccinated are required to:

• Provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test result 3 days prior to travel
• Provide a vaccination certificate on arrival to Barbados
• Have a standard or rapid COVID-19 PCR test done at the airport or their approved accommodation
• Use specially designated transportation providers for their transport to their approved accommodation and while awaiting their COVID-19 PCR test result
• Stay at their approved accommodation where they are free to move around in accordance with the guidelines of that property

All fully vaccinated travellers will be required to quarantine for approximately 1 to 2 days.

Unvaccinated Travellers

Any traveller who has not been fully vaccinated, not vaccinated at all, does not have any evidence of vaccination or has travelled from or transited through a country where the prevalence of certain variants of COVID-19 are deemed of particular concern to Barbados, are required to:

• Provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test on arrival 3 days prior to travel
• Use specifically designated transportation providers for their transport from the airport to approved accommodation
• Stay within their rooms/suites before receiving a 2nd negative COVID-19 PCR test. Travellers are not allowed to leave their rooms/suites
• Take their 2nd test 5 days after their arrival to Barbados

All unvaccinated travellers will be required to quarantine for approximately 5 to 7 days.

Special Considerations

Children under 18 who are travelling with fully vaccinated guardians will be allowed to adhere to the fully vaccinated traveller guidelines. If you are travelling within a group as a vaccinated traveller with other unvaccinated travellers, you will be subject to unvaccinated traveller guidelines if you choose not to be separated.

All unaccompanied minors under the age of 18 must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken no more than 3 days prior to arrival. Vaccinated unaccompanied minors will follow the guidelines for all vaccinated travellers, whereas, unvaccinated unaccompanied minors will follow the protocol of unvaccinated travellers.

Due to the fluidity of the COVID-19 pandemic, these protocols are likely to change. Travellers are encouraged to check http://www.barbadostravelprotocols.com  for updates.