Paraguay: Authorities extend most COVID-19-related restrictions through March 14 /update 27

Event

Officials in Paraguay have slightly amended and extended existing internal measures to combat the spread of COVID-19, through March 14. Under the new directives, most restrictions remain unchanged; however, the order allows for the gradual resumption of face-to-face learning in the education sector. As previously, individual movements and most nonessential commercial operations remain limited to 0500-2359 daily. The following notable measures will remain in place without amendment through March 14:

• The sale of alcohol remains banned 2200-0500, except at restaurants.

• Public sector operations must follow a staggered schedule with a 50-percent staff capacity.

• Restaurants and other food establishments may operate 0500-2359, by reservation only.

• Home delivery and call center services, as well as pharmacies, may operate 24 hours.

• Religious activities are permitted with a maximum of 100 people indoors and 150 people outdoors, with individuals maintaining 2 meters (6 feet) between each other.

• Social events in public and private spaces are permitted with up to 100 people, and with individuals maintaining 2 meters (6 feet) between each other for up to four hours, with no dancing. Social events in the home are limited to 12 people only.

• Group sports are permitted with up to 14 people together at a time.

• Public pools, beaches, and spas may open subject to pre-approval and operating protocols.

• Events, practices, and other activities in the cultural and creative sectors are permitted with a maximum of up to 75 people together at a time.

All businesses and individuals are required to adhere to strict social distancing protocols and enhanced sanitization measures. It is mandatory to wear facemasks in closed spaces, especially where people cannot maintain 2 meters (6 feet) between each other, and on public roads and public transport. Violators will be fined.

International Travel
International travelers may enter via Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU), and the land borders with Brazil, specifically the crossings in Ciudad del Este, Pedro Juan Caballero, and Salto del Guaira. All other ports of entry and exit remain closed, except for repatriation and humanitarian flights, and cargo transportation.

All passengers must complete the Traveler's Health Declaration Form within 24 hours before entering the country. Additionally, travelers aged 10 and over must present proof of a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken within 72 hours before arrival to be permitted entry. However, authorities will permit entry for nationals and foreign residents without a test result in exceptional cases if the traveler takes a COVID-19 test within 24 hours after arrival and remains in isolation until the results are confirmed. Nationals and travelers from countries without MERCOSUR membership or association (including Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay, as well as Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, and Suriname) must also provide proof of international health insurance.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks. Highly targeted localized measures could be enforced in some communities.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Traveler's Health Declaration Form
Presidential Decrees (Spanish)
Nationwide Measures Feb. 22-March 14 (Spanish)