Thailand, Brazil Extend Travel Bans on Passengers From Africa Over Omicron Variant

Thailand

The Thai government has extended its temporary travel ban on passengers from 10 African countries until January 31, 2022, in an effort to prevent the spread of the Omicron variant of COVID-19. The ban, which was originally set to expire on December 31, 2021, now applies to travelers from Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Angola.

According to a statement from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), the extension of the ban is necessary due to the ongoing global health concerns surrounding the Omicron variant. The CAAT also stated that the ban may be extended further if the situation does not improve.

Thai citizens and foreigners with valid work permits or student visas who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 are exempt from the travel ban. However, they are required to undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine upon arrival in Thailand.

Brazil

The Brazilian government has also extended its travel ban on passengers from seven African countries until January 31, 2022. The ban, which was originally set to expire on December 31, 2021, now applies to travelers from South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Eswatini, Malawi, Mozambique, and Namibia.

The Brazilian government has stated that the extension of the ban is necessary to protect the country from the Omicron variant. The government has also announced that it is considering imposing additional travel restrictions on other countries in Africa.

Brazilian citizens and foreigners with valid work permits or student visas who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 are exempt from the travel ban. However, they are required to undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine upon arrival in Brazil.