News are important to us. ESC is constantly scanning updates and information about policy updates, events, stakeholders, etc. We are updating and posting relevant news frequently to not only inform our members, but also provide feedback and information to our website visitors. These news and information focuses around transport and logistics, and any other related topic in the field.
Before May 2023, we have sent regular newsletters to all our subscribers via mass e-mailing programs to inform them once or twice per month about ongoing news and events. We will continue to do so, but have decided to keep our website more freqently updated and summarise all news every second week in a newsletter. You will see these newsletters here below. They are intended to keep you up to speed about the developments within the last two weeks. We hope you are enjoying the reading.
Kind regards
The ESC team
The current state of health emergency has been extended to 31 January 2021 (previously 15 October 2020). This means that the containment measures under law decrees nos 19/2020 and 33/2020 will also be extended until 31 January (such as the limitation of the movement of people, the limitation or suspension of business activities or professional activities and self-employment, as well as the provision that the permitted activities in line with measures avoiding gatherings of people and ensuring compliance with social distancing measures).
In the workplace the obligation to carry out activities in compliance with the protocol on measures to combat Covid-19 signed on 24 April 2020 between the government and the social partners remains unaffected, as well as compliance with specific sector protocols. For transport and logistics companies, the protocol signed between the government and the social partners on 20 March 2020 applies.
12.10.2020
Further restrictive measures in Lazio region: for a period of 30 days starting from 00:00 on 23 October, a curfew will be in place every day from 00:00 to 5:00. Travel for work will be permitted, but a self-certification is needed.
Breaking the curfew without a self-certification will be punishable by a fine of EUR 400 to 3,000.
26.10.2020
The Ministry of Health established the location of the Italian regions in their respective risk areas in light of the provisions of the Prime Minister’s Decree of 3.11.2020. The regions located in the high-risk range with a scenario of maximum severity (so-called red zone) are Calabria, Lombardy, Piedmont and Valle d’Aosta: without prejudice to the possibility of moving for proven reasons of work, necessity and health, in these regions any movement within one’s own municipality is prohibited. The regions located in the medium risk range with a high severity scenario (so-called orange zone) are Puglia and Sicily: also in this case, without prejudice to the possibility of moving for the aforementioned reasons, one cannot move from one’s own municipality of residence. nor from the regional territory. For all other regions (so-called yellow zone) the provisions of the Prime Minister’s Decree remain in force with the prohibition of moving from 22.00 to 5.00 except for proven work, necessity or health reasons. Please note that the ordinance is valid from 6 November for a period of 15 days and that permitted movements must be certified by self-declaration.
10.11.2020
On 25 June, SFTRF and SITAF decided to amend the rules on access to the Fréjus Road Tunnel for Euro 3 and Euro 4 goods vehicles over 3.5 tonnes. It was decided at first to ban these vehicles from using the tunnel as of 1 July 2020. However, in the context of the current Covid-19 pandemic, there is now a derogation of this rule.
On 18 August 2020, new entry requirements for Italy were published. The requirements depend on from where a person has travelled (see details here: https://www.esteri.it/mae/en/ministero/normativaonline/decreto-iorestoacasa-domande-frequenti/focus-cittadini-italiani-in-rientro-dall-estero-e-cittadini-stranieri-in-italia.html).
Special restrictions (recent COVID-19 test or quarantine) have been introduced for persons entering Italy after having stayed or transited, in the last 14 days, in one of the following countries: Croatia, Greece, Malta, and Spain. Professional road freight transport drivers who have stayed or transited in one of these countries are exempt from the limitations if:
– They prove that they are entering Italy for work purposes. An EC certificate should be sufficient proof.
– They complete the self-declaration (please see here: Italian version, English version). However, professional drivers can only stay in Italy for a maximum of 120 hours (36 hours if in transit), after which they will have to leave the country or go into quarantine.
Note that all ferry agents at the Greek ports of Patras and Igoumenitsa are requesting truck drivers (of all nationalities) to fill in the self-declaration form before they embark a ship.
01.09.2020
Driving bans:
With a decree signed by the Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Paola De Micheli, heavy vehicles will be able to circulate also on weekends in December and during the holidays planned for the month.
The decree provides that vehicles used for the transport of goods, with a maximum total authorized mass of more than 7.5 tons, can move in the following days: 6, 8, 13, 20, 25, 26 and 27 December.
In addition, the suspension of the ban on international goods transport services is still valid, and will remain so until further governmental decision. A provision once again made necessary by the Coronavirus emergency and the need to facilitate the transport system and traffic flows.
16.12.2020
Crew Changes
Restrictions: Yes
Crew shore leave is not permitted! No shore pass are issued! No VISA Issued! All Italian citizens and guests are ordered to absolutely avoid any movement into and out of the Italian territories, as well as within the same territory, except for journeys motivated by indifferent working needs or situations of emergency.
Port Restrictions
Restrictions: Yes
All ships to request Sanitary Free Pratique regardless of last port and flag, same must be sent not earlier than 12hrs prior upto 4hrs before arrival to the e-mail address of the local Sanitary office indicated by local agent, with the following docs:
Maritime Health Declaration
Copy of Sanification exemption Certificate
Crew List and Passenger List
List of the ports called during the last 14 days
Port Closures and Delays
Port Closures: No
Expect Delays: No
At the moment the self-declaration is requested always in the red and orange regions for moving in the regional landscape:
Red:
• Lombardia
• Piemonte
• Calabria
• Valle d’Aosta
Orange:
• Puglia
• Sicilia
The self-declaration is requested between 22.00 and 5.00 in the rest of the Italian regions (yellow regions) instead.
For drivers from abroad once in Italy there is the obligation to complete a self-declaration certifying they are working as well as an immediately communication about the entry to the Prevention Department of the competent healthcare company based on the place of entry (“ASL of the provincia” of entry); no quarantine or COVID swab are obligatory.
The form has to be filled by the driver and the he has to send to ASL of the provincia of entry.
These are the addresses where the driver can send it following the place of entry In Italy:
– Brennero – ASL Alto Adige
Phone number 0471/909202
The declaration is available on website
– Ventimiglia – ASL Imperia
Phone number 0184/536683
Information of driver which have to be sent to the email d.franco@asl1.liguria.it
– Frejus – ASL Torino3
Phone number 011/9551752
Information of driver which have to be sent to the email nsuma@aslto3.piemonte.it
– Tarvisio (UD) – ASL Medio Friuli
Phone number 0432/553264
Information of driver which have to be sent to the email tarvis.border@asufc.sanita.fvg.it
– Trieste – ASL Trieste
Phone number 040/3997490
Information of driver which have to be sent to the email profilassi.dip@asugi.sanita.fvg.it
– Gorizia – ASL Gorizia
Phone number 0481/592876
Autodichiarazione da inviare all’indirizzo email
infettive.profilassi@asugi.sanita.fvg.it
– Monte Bianco – ASL Valle d’Aosta
Information of driver which have to be sent to the email igiene.pubblica@ausl.vda.it
– Valico di Brogeda – ASL Insubria (Como)
Phone number 031/370111
Information of driver which have to be sent to the email
aianim@ats-insubria.it
uocpsal.co@ats-insubria.it
– Passo del Sempione – ASL Verbano-Cusio-Ossola
Information of driver which have to be sent to the email sisp.vb@aslvco.it
09.11.2020
Date: 21 May
The Ministry of Transport has clarified that foreign drivers entering Italy are not subject to the following provisions anymore:
· Maximum stay of 72 hours in case of a transport operation ending in Italy
· Maximum stay of 24 hours in case of a transport operation transiting through Italy
· Obligation to notify local health authorities upon entrance
On 18 August 2020, new entry requirements for Italy were published. The requirements depend on from where a person has travelled (see details here).
Special restrictions (recent COVID-19 test or quarantine) have been introduced for persons entering Italy after having stayed or transited, in the last 14 days, in one of the following countries: Croatia, Greece, Malta, and Spain. Professional road freight transport drivers who have stayed or transited in one of these countries are exempt from the limitations, please see the conditions in International road transport section.
Passengers are not allowed to enter the country, with exception to nationals and residents of the country, diplomats, airline crew and official delegations.
Date: from 25 May
A new land border crossing point will open in Kani-Kurgan, in the Amur region on the border with China. The border crossing point will be operating on a temporary basis, only allowing cross-border movement of goods at first. The projected capacity is 190 vehicles per day and its opening will reduce the workload at other border crossing points with China. Controls will start as soon as the bridge connecting Blagoveshchensk (RUS) and Heihe (CHN) is opened to traffic.
Members are advised that the Blagoveshchensk-Heihe border crossing point will only open after consultations between relevant authorities in Russia and China are concluded, and after restrictions caused by Covid-19 pandemic are removed.
As of 17 June, controls on access to some regions within Russia remain in place. Transport operators going to the city of Chita (Zabaikalye territory) have to obtain a digital pass by applying on this portal (English version here). Transport operators planning to cross the border with China in the Primorye region must submit an application, to obtain a slot in a queue, no later than two days before the date of arrival at the border crossing points of Kraskino (RUS) – Hunchun (CHN), Pogranichny (RUS) – Suifenhe (CHN), Poltavka (RUS) – Dongning (CHN). The application form should be filled in, printed out, signed and sent by email to the following addresses, depending on which border crossing point the operator is planning to use: pogr@primorsky.rupogr@primorsky.ru(for Pogranichny border crossing point), krask@primorsky.ru (for Kraskino border crossing point) and polt@primorsky.ru (for Poltavka border crossing point). The permitted arrival date will be determined based on actual current capacity of the border crossing point and number of already submitted applications.
All vessels come from countries with a high risk of Covid-19 should be disinfected by specialists at the port’s external roadstead, only after that quarantine inspector(s) goes on board in order to take temperature test of each crew member and if everything is in order then official authorities only. The same procedure will be if there was a crew change in ports with a high risk of infection and 14 days have not passed since the crew arrived.
The movement of any person or transport in the city of Moscow or the surrounding region must obtain a special digital permit. Exemption is granted to international freight transport in the Moscow surrounding region at any time of day, and in the city of Moscow during the night (22:00-06:00). Entry into the city of Moscow during daytime hours (06:00-22:00) will only be permitted for those in the possession of a special HGV permit (regulated by Moscow Government Order of 22 August 2011 No.379-ПП).
The transport of goods transiting through Lithuania is permitted. Upon detection of any symptom at the border of Lithuania, drivers or crew members engaged in international commercial transport in any type of vehicle, transiting through the territory of Lithuania, will not be allowed to enter the country unless they are citizens of Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia or legal residents of Lithuania.
Individuals can enter the country through the following state border crossing points:
Road: Medininkai – Kamenyj Log, Raigardas – Privalka, Šalčininkai – Benekainys, Kybartai – Černyševskoje, Panemunė – Sovetsk, Kalvarija – Budzisk, Lazdijai – Aradninkai and all crossing points of the border with Latvia. The entry of persons and/or their passenger cars into the territory of the Republic of Lithuania is allowed only through the following international state border crossing points: Kalvarija–Budziskas and Saločiai–Grenstalė and all border crossing points of the state border with the Republic of Latvia. In exceptional cases, after obtaining the permission of the Head of the State Border Guard Service under the Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Lithuania or a person authorised by him, persons and/or their passenger cars may be allowed to enter the Republic of Lithuania through other road border crossing points.
On 17 June, the Lithuanian government lifted the nationwide quarantine but extended the state of emergency, which was declared back in February.
Every person, regardless of nationality, crossing a land border into Lithuania must fill in an online form no later than 12 hours following their arrival in the country. Link to the online form. (13.08.2020)
Individuals can enter the country through the following state border crossing points:
Pilies, Malkų įlankos, Būtingė Oil Terminal and Molo border checkpoints.
Individuals can enter the country through the following state border crossing points:
Vilnius railway station border crossing point, Stasylos – Benekainys, Kena – Gudagojis, Kybartai – Nesterovas, Šeštokai – Trakiškės and all border crossing points of the state border with the Republic of Latvia. In the case of commercial and/or international freight transport by rail, the state border may also be crossed through the Pagėgiai-Sovetsko railway border checkpoint;
Airports: border checkpoints of Vilnius, Kaunas, Palanga and Šiauliai international airports.
For non-national drivers or crew members who perform international commercial transport in all types of vehicles, isolation is mandatory from the day of arrival in the Republic of Lithuania until departure from the territory, but not longer than 14 days.
The number of local passengers on intercity buses and trains is restricted to maintain the necessary distances between passengers.
Foreigners are not allowed to enter Lithuania; the following categories are exempt from this provision:
• Crew members working in Lithuanian companies engaged in international commercial transport or crew members working for foreign companies performing international commercial transport in any type of vehicle.
• Citizens of the European Economic Area, the Swiss Confederation, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and persons legally residing in those countries that did not exceed 25 cases per 100 thousand population in the last 14 days. A list of such States shall be published each Monday by the Head of State Emergency Operations.
• Foreigners who have the right to reside in the Republic of Lithuania and foreigners who are family members i.e. parents, adoptive parents, children, adopted children, spouses and guardians of citizens of the Republic of Lithuania and foreigners who have the right to reside in the Republic of Lithuania.
• Foreigners holding a national visa of the Republic of Lithuania.
Restrictions apply at the following land border crossing points: Tverečius–Vidžiai; Lavoriškės–Kotlovka; Šumskas–Loša; Ramoniškiai–Pograničnyj; Nida–Morskoje; Adutiškis–Moldevičiai; Papelekis–Lentupis; Krakūnai–Geranainys; Eišiškės–Dotiškės; Rakai–Petiulevcai; Norviliškės–Pickūnai; Latežeris–Pariečė; Medininkai–Kamenyj Log; Šalčininkai–Benekainys; Raigardas–Privalka; Kybartai–Černiševskoje; Panemunė–Sovetsk.
On 29 June, Lithuania introduced a 14-day isolation requirement for its nationals and residents arriving from the 50 most affected countries, including Sweden, Russia and Belarus. International freight transport drivers are exempt from this provision. The ministry will update the list every week. The countries considered most affected are those with more than 25 new cases per population of 100,000 reported over the last two weeks. Travellers from countries with infection rates of between 15 and 25 are advised, but not required, to go into 14-day self-isolation.
Date: From 1st June
Romania resumed the international road transport of passengers through regular services, special regular services and occasional services in international traffic. Passenger transport operations are carried out in compliance with those prevention measures applicable to road transport, as established by Law 55/2020.
21 July 2020, the National Company of Administration of Road Infrastructure (CNAIR) has introduced temporary driving restrictions for road maintenance works between 17 July and 30 September 2020, in the Valea Oltului zone ofthe DN7 road (km 238+000 – km 238+200). The restriction applies to vehicles over 7.5t on the road between Ramnicu-Valcea – Vestem on the following days:
Friday – between 14h00 – 22h00 the following days: 17.07., 24.07., 31.07., 07.08., 14.08., 21.08., 28.08, 04.09., 11.09., 18.09, 25.09.
Saturday – between 06h00 – 22h00 the following days: 18.07., 25.07, 01.08, 08.08, 15.08., 22.08., 29.08., 05.09, 12.09., 19.09., 26.09
Sunday – between 06h00 – 22h00 the following days: 19.07., 26.07, 02.08., 09.08., 16.08., 23.08., 30.08., 06.09, 13.09., 20.09., 27.09
Exceptions: transport of passengers, perishable and dangerous goods, first aid equipment and medicines in the event of a natural disaster, mail; vehicles with loading/unloading points on the restricted road sector.
Alternative routes:
– For vehicles with an authorised total weight of more than 7.5t, but less than 30.0t:
Rm.Vâlcea – DN 67 Tg-Jiu – DN 66 Bumbești Jiu – Petroșani – Deva
Filiași – DN 66 Tg-Jiu – Bumbești Jiu – Petroșani – Deva
– For vehicles with an authorised total weight of more than 7.5t, but less than 40.0t:
Pitești – București – A3 Ploiești – DN 1A – Brașov DN1 – Veștem – Sibiu
Craiova – DN 6 Dr.Tr.-Severin – Caransebeș – DN 68 Hațeg – Deva
The alternative routes can be followed in both directions.
All ships arriving from risk areas will be subjected to thorough checks inclusive of physical examination of crew, checking of ship’s medical logs as well as crew lists to verify travel history.
If no suspect cases, the ship will proceed to berth with crew members being forbidden to go ashore till expiry of the 14 days incubation period.
Romanian authorities would bind any vessel calling Black Sea and Danube River ports to a 14 day quarantine period at roads prior to be allowed in port. While indeed legal text states that 14 days begin running as from vessel’s sailing out of the last port situated in a red or yellow risk zone, in practice Interservices SA has encountered situations where 14 days began running as from vessel’s call at Romanian ports. Exercise caution on how authorities would view running of 14 days.
Suspension of direct rail transport services with border countries (18.03.2020)
All international passenger traffic is suspended as a result of measures taken by neighbouring states – Bulgaria, Hungary, Ukraine, Moldova, and Serbia.
Upon entry to Romania they must present an employee certificate signed by the employer. Drivers transiting Romania must fill out a form when entering the country. The form must be handed over at the border of exit. Upon entering Romania the driver is required to apply a special sticker from by the State Inspectorate for Control of Road Transport to the vehicle’s windscreen, in order to show the transit corridor. 07.04.2020
Extension of seafarers certificates (16.03.2020)
The validity of special certificates, certificates of capacity, medical fitness, seafarers books, endorsements competence and proficiency that expire before 1 July 2020 is extended for a period of 3 months, but no later than 1 October 2020.
13.04.2020
On 22 April, UNTRR confirmed that, although the Romanian Authorities have not sent the updated information to the European Commission regarding the extension of the state of emergency until 15 May 2020, it is understood that documents such as licences, transport certificates, authorisations, etc., will remain valid during the state of emergency period.
Therefore, documents issued by the Romanian Road Authority that expire during the state of emergency will remain valid until 15 May and can be renewed within 90 days of that date. Documents can be sent by post.
22.04.2020
The validity of Romanian driving licences expiring during the state of emergency has also been extended until 13 August 2020.
All airports are closed for regular traffic.
As of 7 April, the following 19 border-crossing points are operational at the Ukrainian border:
Crossing points at the border with Belarus: Senkivka- Veselivka, Novi Yarylovychi-Nova Huta, Slavutych-Komaryn, Vystupovychi-Nova Rudnia, Domanove-Mokrany.
At the border with Poland: Krakowiec-Korchowa, Yagodin-Dorohusk.
At the border with Slovakia:Uzhhorod-Vyshnie-Niemetske.
At the border with Hungary: Chop (Tysa)-Zakhon.
At the border with Romania: Diakove-Khalmeu, Porubne-Siret
At the border with Moldova: Palanka-Maiaky-Udobne, Starokozache-Tudora, Reni-Dzhiurdzhiulesht, Mohyliv-Podilskyi-Otach
At the border with Russia: Hoptivka-Nekhotieievka, Iunakivka-Sudzha, Bachivsk-Troiebortne, Senkivka-Novi Yurkovychi
On 15 April 2020, the Ukrainian Government approved a mechanism allowing, on the basis of reciprocity, to take restrictive measures against those countries that have set restrictions towards Ukraine.
On the basis of reciprocity, appropriate measures can be applied to drivers and the crew of goods vehicles from countries which imposed border crossing restrictions to Ukrainian goods vehicles drivers and crew.
Meanwhile, сrossing the state border of Ukraine is permitted for drivers and the crew of goods vehicles from countries which didn’t impose any restrictions on Ukrainian goods vehicles drivers and the crew.
With effect from 6 May, the Government of Ukraine has opened the border crossing between Rawa Ruska and Hrebenne, which is situated on the border of Poland.
On 29 May, the Government of Ukraine informed of the opening of some additional border crossing points. In addition to those already active, the following border crossing points are now opened to traffic:
At the border with Hungary: Malyi Bereznyi – Ublia
At the border with Moldova: Serpneve 1 – Basarabiaska, Таbaky – Мyrne, Кuchurgan – Pervomaisk, Кеlmentsi – Larga, Sokyriany – Оknytsia, Mamalyga – Kryva, Rososhany – Brichen
At the border with Russia: Milove – Chertkovo
Free practice granted in case medical screening successfully passed/ Additional medical questionnaire for crew members. Temperature crew list/ No specific call restrictions based on previous ports called/ Technical calls allowed/ No limitations for cruise, but border closed for foreigners/ Shore leave not permitted/ No precautionary testing in place/ Social distancing mandated/ Medical assistance – urgent cases only, by request.
Temperature of drivers will be checked and they will be asked to wear masks, medical gloves, and have antiseptic gel for hands sanitation.
Internal country passenger traffic closed. Passenger transportation in measures of the city seriously limited or closed.
Due to an increased number of COVID-19 infections, quarantine in Ukraine has been prolonged until 1 November 2020. Restrictive measures will be in force until 31 October 2020.
As a COVID-19 containment measure, Ukraine will close its borders to non-nationals from 00:00 on 29 August 2020 until 00:00 on 28 September. The following exceptions will apply:
– Drivers or crew members of vehicles.
– Persons transiting through Ukraine with a ticket confirming that they will leave the country within 24 hours.
– Persons entering Ukraine to study.
– Persons serving in the armed forces of Ukraine.
– Persons permanently residing in Ukraine with the appropriate permit.
– Refugees.
– Diplomats, members of their families and representatives of international missions.
– Instructors from NATO member states working with the armed forces of Ukraine.
– Cultural figures and athletes attending official events and their staff.
– Persons transporting stem cells.
Freight transport activities within, to, and from Sweden are not impacted by measures.
All ports are now requesting health declaration from all vessels, if all crew are healthy then vessel will be allowed to berth. Shore leave is restricted. Some medical assistance available, however only for emergency. All “face to face” meeting is avoided by terminals / vessels.
On 25 May, it was confirmed that relaxations of driving and rest times rules currently in place in Sweden will not be extended further. Therefore, as from 00:00 on 1 June, normal driving and rest time periods will apply.
Airports are shut from March 16, although exemptions will be made for Norwegians returning from abroad as well as for goods.
In an effort to reduce the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), the Norwegian border control measures will be extended for 90 days, after 15 May. The current measures in place involve the posting of police and military employees at border stations in order to control persons crossing the borders. It is important for truck drivers to have their passport and driving license readily available when crossing the border.
As from 19 June, mandatory quarantine in Norway has been reduced from 14 to 10 days. This reduction applies to people travelling for work reasons and tourists that come from the following countries: Finland (including Åland), Denmark, Iceland, Greenland, The Faroe Islands and Svalbard. Due to the situation in Sweden, travellers from Sweden (except from Gotland) still have to quarantine for 10 days.
For work-related travel from countries outside the Nordic countries, 10 days of quarantine upon entry applies. People whose work is strictly necessary to maintain the proper operation of critical social functions, or to meet the basic needs of the population (including freight and passenger transport drivers) are exempt from the provision.
Members should be aware that drivers are exempted from quarantine in case they are travelling between their place of residence and their place of work, and during the time they are employed. During their spare time, quarantine is compulsory.
All ports open for goods, services, and operations. General policy from authorities to keep shipping services 100% operational.
Date: from 14 May
The relaxations of driving and rest time rules have ceased to apply in Norway. The government decided not to prolong them, therefore drivers operating in Norway should comply with the original provisions.
Borders are shut down for incoming non-resident travelers. All Norwegian citizens and other people who work or live in Norway are still allowed to enter the country. Norwegian quarantine provisions: these has been no changes – everyone who enters the country must be in quarantine for 2 weeks, except for truck drivers who come by car and for truck drivers who come to work. Truck drivers can work, but must follow the quarantine rules when he/she is not working (in addition to all other measures to prevent infection).
On 1 June, Moldovan Authorities reopened the land border crossing points of Briceni – Rossoșanî, Criva – Mamalîga and Mirnoe – Tabaki.
Therefore, as of today, the open land border crossing points are the following:
At the border with Romania:
Leușeni – Albița
Sculeni – Sculeni
Giurgiulești – Galați
At the border with Ukraine:
Otaci-Moghilev-Podolsk
Tudora-Starokazacie
Palanca-Maiaki-Udobnoe
Mirnoe – Tabaki
Briceni-Rossoșanî
Criva – Mamalîga
Giurgiuleşti-Reni
Ocniţa-Sokireanî
Larga – Kelmențî
As an exception, car drivers and transport service personnel that carry cargo, crews of aircraft/ships and train crews, are not required to comply with self-isolation in the absence of clinical signs of respiratory infection or fever.
Individuals entering Moldova must fill in a medical card and sign a declaration of personal liability for compliance with the self-isolation regime for 14 days at specified locations.
Wearing masks on board aircraft is mandatory for all passengers and crew. Each airline will apply a set of sanitary measures.
These can be found on their websites. Passengers are therefore invited to read them before departure.
As of 15 June, Belgium has lifted border restrictions on all movements within the European Union, the Schengen Area and the United Kingdom, subject to a favourable epidemiological situation in Belgium and the countries concerned. Any person with Belgian nationality, with or without their main residence in Belgium, long-term residents in Belgium and persons with legal residence in Belgium, may always return to Belgium.
As of 1 August 2020, the Passenger Locator Form has to be completed by the following persons, including truck drivers (see official website )
– People residing in Belgium who have been abroad for more than 48 hours.
– People residing in other countries who plan to stay in Belgium for more than 48 hours.
– People entering Belgium by airplane or by boat, regardless of the amount of time they plan to spend in Belgium.
The form can be completed online.
Essential movements, including the transport of goods, are exempt from quarantine. See below information for truck drivers coming from red zones.
1) If a driver comes to Belgium as part of a professional journey (transporting goods):
a. If he/she stays in Belgium for less than 48 hours, the Passenger Locator Form does not need to be completed.
b. If he/she stays in Belgium for more than 48 hours, the Passenger Locator Form must be completed.
In both cases, drivers are exempted from compulsory quarantine and testing, even if they come from a red zone. The text messages they receive on arrival to Belgium after filling in the Passenger Locator Form may be ignored.
Therefore, if a driver transits through Belgium (which will almost always be less than 48 hours), he/she can pass freely, regardless of where he/she is coming from.
2) If a driver comes to Belgium after spending his/her free time abroad (e.g. a driver goes to Romania for a week to visit his/her family and comes back to work in Belgium), then the quarantine measures apply.
a. Coming from a red zone, it is mandatory to spend two weeks in quarantine and to test for COVID-19. The test is free of charge.
b. Coming from an orange zone, it is strongly recommended to go into quarantine and get tested. You will be charged for the test.
More information can be found here.
Crew Changes
Restrictions: Conditional
Crew change in Belgian ports remains difficult and is not at every terminal allowed, this needs to be discussed with terminal in advance as sometimes not via shore but only permitted by launch.
Port Restrictions
Restrictions: Yes
All Belgian ports are open and operational, nevertheless in slower production due to limited labour people available. Cruise vessels and river cruises are until further notice not allowed in the ports. Belgian borders are closed for non-essential travel of individuals but trucks can pass. Custom authority agreed to digital announcement of documents related to clearance inward / outward, cargo announcement, avoiding physical contact.
Port Closures and Delays
Port Closures: No
Expect Delays: No
As of 1 August 2020, the Passenger Locator Form has to be completed by the following persons, including truck drivers (see official website )
– People residing in Belgium who have been abroad for more than 48 hours.
– People residing in other countries who plan to stay in Belgium for more than 48 hours.
– People entering Belgium by airplane or by boat, regardless of the amount of time they plan to spend in Belgium.
The form can be completed online.
Belgium has adopted a Proposal of law to take control measures against the spread of coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 in railway matters.
New measures as of 19 October – the transport and logistics sector is considered essential, it is exempt from the measures.
As of 19 October, a curfew comes into force: it is forbidden to travel on public roads between 00:00 and 05:00. Business travel can still take place, but it must be possible to justify it. Employers can draw up certificates or use the consignment note to justify essential travel. FEBETRA has drawn up certificates which be used to attest that drivers are making a trip that is a necessary part of their work (CP 226, CP 140.03 and CP 140.04). You can download them from the FEBETRA Corona Belgium Blog.
Companies in some sectors are obliged to keep a register of their foreign workers, but the transport and logistics sector is exempt.
23.10.2020
On 26 August 2020, countries were added to the red list, including Romania. Countries and areas on the red list are subject to a formal travel ban and persons returning to Belgium from these countries must undergo mandatory testing and quarantine. (For exceptions, please see International road transport section).
Maximum 50% load factor – no more than half of the maximum number of passengers specified in the aircraft technical documentation may be carried at the same time with the aircraft.
Passenger Locator Card (PLC) (paper or electronic) and health statement have to be filled out when entering the airport.
Temperature screening is mandatory.
As of 00:00 on 13 June, controls at internal borders in Poland have been lifted and all border crossing points have been opened. The lifting also implies the lifting of sanitary controls and quarantine requirements. Controls are maintained on borders with Russia, Belarus and Ukraine.
On 26 June, the Polish authorities introduced summer traffic restrictions for vehicles over 12 tonnes, which are as follows:
• From 18:00 to 22:00 on Fridays
• From 08:00 to 14:00 on Saturdays
• From 08:00 to 22:00 on Sundays
Restrictions will be in force until 30 August.
Crew Changes
Restrictions: Yes
Since 4 of May 2020, borders are open for crew and no 14 days quarantine is required. Crew members must have a proof of employment (contract), SB and Passport. Crew changes are possible, but each case must be accepted by Immigration Commander in Warsaw BEFORE the crew change date.
Port Restrictions
Restrictions: Yes
Please be informed that since 14/03/2020 15:00lt new procedures have been implemented by Polish Port Authorities. 1. Disembarkation of the crew (without approval from Immigration Office) is strictly prohibited. Nonconformism to this rule may cause 14 days quarantine at the anchorage and fine. 2. After berthing all crew should be ready for body temperature testing on deck. Nobody should board the vessel before the results (there is also a fine for that). Polish borders are closed for foreigners. All vessel’s crewmembers are NOT allowed to go ashore – shall remain on board. Immigration will periodically check if all crew is on board and high fines could be imposed for breaking this regulation.
Port Closures & Delays
Expect Closures: No
Expect Delays: No
On 30 May, Poland lifted the transit ban for goods drivers that carried out international transport operations and are passing through the Polish territory with other means of transport in order to reach their place of rest or get back from it. Now, once at the Polish border, those drivers should present an appropriate certificate or a copy of the employment contract, a driving license (or a driving license with code 95), and the driver qualification card or driver’s certificate.
As from 23 April, drivers operating in Poland are obliged to wear a face mask whilst they are outside of their cabin. In case there are two people in the cabin, both of them have to wear a face mask whilst driving.
National bus, air, and rail transport will operate normally.
Foreign nationals are still banned from entering Poland, but the following categories are exempted from the provision:
• Polish citizens.
• Foreigners who are spouses or children of Polish citizens, or who remain under their constant care.
• Foreigners holding a Polish Card.
• Heads of diplomatic missions and members of the mission’s diplomatic and consular staff, i.e. persons with a diplomatic rank and members of their families.
• Foreigners who have the right of permanent or temporary residence in Poland.
• Foreigners who have the right to work in Poland, i.e. foreigners entitled to work under the same conditions as Polish citizens, who have a work permit, a certificate of entry in the register regarding seasonal work, a statement on entrusting work to a foreigner on the territory of the Republic of Poland who:
o perform work in Poland, or
o present documents showing that the commencement of work will begin immediately after crossing the border.
• Foreigners who carry out transport operations of persons or goods transiting through Poland, provided the transit is part of their professional activity.
• Drivers performing road transport as part of international road transport or international combined transport travelling through Poland by other means of transport than the vehicle used for road transport in order to (a) take their rest period in the territory of the country of stay or (b) after having taken the rest referred to and after a break in carrying out the work in the circumstances specified in the Act on drivers’ working time.
• Pupils and students studying in Poland.
• Citizens and residence permit holders of European Union Member States, European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Member States – parties to the Agreement on the European Economic Area or the Swiss Confederation and their spouses and children, who travel through Poland to reach their place of residence or stay.
Date: 17 June
The Government of North Macedonia issued a protocol on the transit of foreign citizens through the territory of the country. The protocol allows third country nationals to use all border crossing points in order to transit through the country, provided that drivers do not leave the highway or local road and that they leave the country no later than 5 hours after the entry. For enforcement purposes, drivers entering North Macedonia have to fill in a statement that must be handed to border force at the border crossing point of exit.
No restriction for freight transport
Foreign nationals coming from high- and medium-risk countries (according to the World Health Organisation list) are prohibited from entering the Republic of North Macedonia.
Suspension of flights from all EEA countries and Switzerland. Exemptions include cargo, ferry, humanitarian, ambulance and repatriation flights to Cyprus.
Entry ban to non-resident citizens and mandatory 14-day quarantine as from 16th of March 2020.
Airports in Ireland remain open with no restrictions for people travelling from any area. Ships Crew are deemed essential workers and therefore are not subject to any quarantine regardless of where they arrive from.
Dublin Airport remains open however most airlines have grounded the fleets at this stage.
Crew Changes
Restrictions: No
Port Restrictions
Restrictions: No
As of yet there are no restrictions on any cargo vessels trading into/out of Ireland. The only requirement on vessels is to submit an MDOH minimum 24 hours prior arrival and provided all crew are healthy there are no issues. No vessels are being placed in quarantine regardless of previous port of call. All ports are still in operation.
Port Closures & Delays
Port Closures: No
Expect Delays: No
Under the new measures (announced April 20), the following have come into effect in relation to vehicle testing:
NCT vehicles with a test that was or will be due on or after 28 March 2020 have that test date extended by 4 months
Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Tests (CVRT) – vehicles with a test that was or will be due on or after 28 March have that test date extended by 3 months.
The Minister has also taken the following steps in relation to driver licensing:
Driving licences due to expire between 1 March 2020 and 30 June 2020 inclusive have had their date of expiry extended by 4 months;
Learner permits due to expire between 1 March 2020 and 30 June 2020 inclusive have had their date of expiry extended by 4 months;
Driver Theory Test certificates due to expire between 1 March 2020 and 30 June 2020 inclusive have had that date extended by 4 months;
Certificates of Competency – issued when people pass a driving test and required when applying for a first full driving licence – due to expire between 1 March 2020 and 30 June 2020 inclusive have had that date extended by 4 months;
Initial Basic Training certificates for motorcycle learners due to expire between 1 March 2020 and 30 June 2020 inclusive have had that date extended by 4 months.
In addition, and in line with the arrangements previously in place for NCT certificates in relation to private cars, it will no longer be necessary to have a current Certificate of Roadworthiness (CRW) in order to tax a commercial vehicle. Companies should be able to renew the motor tax for a commercial vehicle from 21 April without need of a CRW.
Entry into force of a Curfew between 23h00 and 06h00 until the end of November.
International road transport divers mustn’t carry any specific documentation.
10.11.2020
Seatruck Ferries temporarily stop shipping any HGV drivers or any other passenger in their Irish Sea vessels. Accompanied road transport (complete truck combinations with driver) is then stopped until further notice, but the company will continue to carry unaccompanied semi-trailers, containers, and swap bodies.
Seatruck Ferries temporarily stop shipping any HGV drivers or any other passenger in their Irish Sea vessels. Accompanied road transport (complete truck combinations with driver) is then stopped until further notice, but the company will continue to carry unaccompanied semi-trailers, containers, and swap bodies.
Date: 15th May
International passenger transport between the Baltic States is authorised. The government decided to authorise the resumption of international passenger transport by air, sea, bus and rail from and to Lithuania and Estonia.
International passenger transport to other destinations will still require the permission of the Minister for Transport, based on a case-by-case basis.
Latvian nationals and permanent residents, as well as foreigners who have not visited other countries in the last 14 days, except Lithuania or Estonia, as well as Lithuanian and Estonian nationals who cross Latvia in transit, do not have to spend 14 days in self-isolation. Persons who transit through Latvia do not have to spend 14 days in self-isolation either.
Amendments to the Order provide that persons who have arrived in Latvia from abroad, except Estonia and Lithuania, may only use public transport if they have self-isolated and they must cover their mouth and nose within the public transport network.
Crew Changes
Restrictions: Conditional
Local crew change permitted. Borders closed for passenger traffic, airports closed for passenger traffic.
Port Restrictions
Restrictions: Yes
Health declarations are required. Cargo/technical calls are allowed. Seaports closed for passenger traffic. Crew should stay on board as much as possible. Social distancing mandated. Medical assistance is available.
Port Closures and Delays
Port Closures: No
Expect Delays: No
Extensions of seafarers’ certificates
Seafarers may return to Latvia or enter their place of employment on board the ship if they do not experience signs of acute respiratory infection and they are not recognised as contact persons. Extensions to certificates and surveys can be granted if necessary. Extensions are currently for one month, but may be increased to three months if the situation worsens. New certification of seafarers is restricted to urgent cases. Expired medical certificates may be considered valid for up to three additional months.
Starting from 12 October every person entering Latvia must fill in an electronic questionnaire (available here), they will then receive a QR code to show to customs. Until 12 October, those entering Latvia will be required to fill in a paper questionnaire.
Filling in the questionnaire is mandatory for all visitors and must be completed no less than 48 hours prior to entering Latvia.
The person must indicate their name, surname, personal code for Latvian citizens (social insurance number – for other citizens), contact telephone number, address of actual place of residence where the person is available, as well as name of the country (including date of departure) where the person has been during the last 14 days before arriving in Latvia, etc.
Each adult person must fill in a separate questionnaire, the questionnaires of minors are filled out by their parent or legal guardian.
Once the questionnaire is completed, the person who arrives on the territory of Latvia will receive a QR code confirming the submission of data. If you lose the QR code, a function on the home page will be available where you can enter your email address and receive the QR code again.
The obtained data will be transmitted to the authorities, namely: State Police, State Border Guard and the Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. Personal data will be stored for 30 days in order to use the information received for epidemiological safety and contact tracing. After 30 days, personal data will be automatically deleted.
The Traveller Registration Control Information System (IECIS), which will further serve as an electronic self-declaration system (confirmation questionnaire) for persons arriving or returning to Latvia from foreign countries, have been developed by the Information Centre of the Ministry of the Interior in cooperation with State Police, State Border Guard and Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.
More information, please see here.
12.10.2020
Date 26 May
The Slovenian Government issued a new Ordinance which updates conditions for entry into the country. The ordinance immediately entered into force and provides for the following:
The Gorjansko – San Pelagio border crossing point, on the border with Italy, is now open. The ordinance contains the full list of open border crossing points.
Slovenian citizens and foreigners with temporary or permanent residence in Slovenia can now enter the country without mandatory quarantine. Persons with permanent or temporary residence in Croatia are currently exempt from quarantine upon entry into Slovenia as well;
People who don’t have a residence in Slovenia and who, at the border, are positive or show typical signs of infections, will not be allowed to enter the country;
Persons with permanent or temporary residence in EU or other Schengen Area member states who are not on the list of countries whose residents may enter Slovenia have to undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine upon entry into the country. Exceptions to this rule are listed here.
Travellers coming from third country must quarantine for 14 days.
Health authorities have also published guidelines for regular and occasional passenger transport operators (in Slovenian only), with which all buses and coaches must comply while driving in Slovenia.
Vessel can call if performing commercial operations (discharging or loading cargo, commercial cruising, military visit, or emergency call) only.
Slovenian-Italian borders are closed for passenger transport by train and international occasional and regular bus services.
At national level, the transport of goods is allowed for postal items, medical supplies, and humanitarian aid.
Slovenian-Italian borders are also closed for passenger transport by train and international occasional and regular bus services.
Non-nationals coming from North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Romania and Croatia will only be permitted to enter Serbia if they have a negative PCR COVID-19 test, not older than 48 hours, issued by the health authorities in their country of residence or the country from which they are entering Serbia.
The conditions for entry into Serbia shall not apply to Serbian nationals coming from the abovementioned countries or to non-nationals who:
– Are in transit through Serbia, if they are:
(1) crew of freight motor vehicles performing international road transport. Those involved in the international transport of goods by road in transit may spend a maximum of 12 hours in Serbia;
(2) the crew and cabin crew of aircraft of which the final destination is Serbia and crew and passengers transiting through international airports in Serbia.
– Are accredited members of the staff of foreign diplomatic and consular missions and offices of international organisations, as well as the members of their families who have special identity cards (identification documents issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the General Secretariat of the Government).
– Are children up to 12 years of age, if their accompanying parent or guardian has a negative test.
– Have temporary or permanent residence in Serbia.
Police escort for trucks in transit through Serbia has been abolished as of 2 April 2020, which will enable faster transportation of goods to end customers. Trucks in transit can stop only at designated resting points and fuel stations marked with a TRANSIT sign. Drivers will receive a map of the dedicated resting points at the border crossing points. Stopping or parking out of these specific points is strictly forbidden and will be subject to sanctions. Drivers must wear protective masks and gloves.
Intercity, urban and suburban bus and rail transport operations have resumed; face masks are mandatory when using public transport in Belgrade.
Non-nationals coming from North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Romania and Croatia will only be permitted to enter Serbia if they have a negative PCR COVID-19 test, not older than 48 hours, issued by the health authorities in their country of residence or the country from which they are entering Serbia.
The conditions for entry into Serbia shall not apply to Serbian nationals coming from the abovementioned countries or to non-nationals who:
– Are in transit through Serbia, if they are:
(1) crew of freight motor vehicles performing international road transport. Those involved in the international transport of goods by road in transit may spend a maximum of 12 hours in Serbia;
(2) the crew and cabin crew of aircraft of which the final destination is Serbia and crew and passengers transiting through international airports in Serbia.
– Are accredited members of the staff of foreign diplomatic and consular missions and offices of international organisations, as well as the members of their families who have special identity cards (identification documents issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the General Secretariat of the Government).
– Are children up to 12 years of age, if their accompanying parent or guardian has a negative test.
– Have temporary or permanent residence in Serbia.
Slovak government extended the curfew until 14 November 2020. The curfew does not apply to the freight and bus drivers entering the territory of the Slovak Republic, if they leave the territory within 48 hours from entry. They only need a certificate for international transport worker.
Based on a result of the wide-scale testing in Slovakia, many drivers have been in quarantine because of their positive tests for COVID-19. Therefore Slovakia has agreed to a temporary and limited relaxation of the enforcement of driving and rest times for the drivers involved in domestic and international delivery of goods. This temporary relaxation applies from 11 November 2020 and will run until 10 December 2020. Details of the temporary relaxation you may find here.
12.11.2020
Restrictions to inland waterway transport:
Slovakia prohibits the landing/stopping of cargo vessels that do not perform loading, unloading, and transshipment works in ports and berths. It is forbidden for the crew to disembark and crew changes are only allowed for Slovak nationals or residents. Cargo vessels in transit may use the berths on the Danube river and its navigable tributaries to comply with the vessel crew work regime. Special conditions apply to replenishment of fuel, food and water supplies. River cruises are prohibited. The landing, berthing and anchoring of all passenger cabin vessels is prohibited on the Danube waterway and its navigable tributaries.
Suspension of international rail transport and reduced domestic rail transport
From 7:00 am on Friday, 13 March 2020, all passenger trains were cancelled at all cross-border railway sections. If these trains also provided carrier national transport, the trains remained functional in the territory of the Slovak Republic. From 14 March 2020 all domestic trains are operated according to the regular schedule for a Saturday. From 18 March 2020, intercity trains have been suspended.
Start date: 13.03.2020
Limitation to national bus services and requirement to wear protective equipment (13.03.2020)
By decision of the Central Crisis Staff of Slovakia the national bus services have been limited. This is the responsibility of self-governing regions and municipalities. The competent authorities and carriers have taken measures to ensure that all passengers are required to have protective equipment (face mask). The operation of the national bus service is according to the holiday schedules or, for example, the schedules in force on Saturday.
As from 10 June, Slovakia has started classifying third countries on the grounds of safety risks. Individuals travelling to Slovakia, who in the previous 14 days have visited a country that is not considered to be safe, must provide proof of a negative test result not older than 96 hours upon arrival at the border.
In cases where individuals enter Slovakia from an unmanned border crossing point, they must immediately submit proof of a negative test to the competent Regional Public Health Authority (in English, German, Czech or Slovak). They must then self-isolate at home and repeat the test on the 5th day of isolation at the earliest. Isolation lasts until the result of the test is negative.
International goods transport drivers remain exempted from any provision.
Flights from Albania, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Peoples Republic of China, Arab Republic of Egypt, Islamic Republic Iran, Kosovo, Moldavia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Portugal, Romania, Russian Federation, Serbia, Sweden, Ukraine and United Kingdom are prohibited.
For more information, please see here.
The latest valid legal basis can be found here.
Hygiene regulations: a mechanical protective device (community mask) covering the mouth and nose area must be worn on board aircraft. The wearing of a mechanical protective device covering the mouth and nose area does not apply to children up to the age of 6 and to persons who cannot be expected to wear the device for health reasons.
Tyrol – Night ban on the Inntal motorway from 1 January 2021
Which journeys will be prohibited?
On a section of the A 12 Inntal motorway, journeys by certain heavy-duty vehicles will be prohibited during night hours.
The vehicle prohibition will be in force during the following hours:
• 1 May to 31 October: 10 pm to 5 am, Sundays and public holidays 11 pm to 5 am.
• 1 November to 30 April: 8 pm to 5 am, Sundays and public holidays 11 pm to 5 am.
The following vehicles will be affected by the IG-L – overnight prohibition:
• Heavy goods vehicles, articulated vehicles and self-propelled machines with a maximum authorised mass in excess of 7.5 t.
• Heavy goods vehicles with trailers and self-propelled machines with trailers, where the total of the maximum authorised masses of both vehicles is in excess of 7.5 t.
Where will the IG-L – overnight vehicle prohibition apply?
The IG-L overnight vehicle prohibition will apply in both directions on the section of the A 12 Inntal motorway between road distance 6.35 (km) in the Langkampfen local authority area and road distance 90.00 (km) in the Zirl local authority area.
Will there be exceptions to the IG-L – overnight prohibition?
The Regulation has provision for exceptions for:
• Exception for heavy-duty vehicles of Euro class VI (NOx emissions not exceeding 0.4 g/kWh), provided that the vehicle’s membership of this Euro class can be proven by means of vehicle marking in accordance with the IG-L – Emissions Class Marking Regulation BGBl. II no. 120/2012, as last modified by Regulation BGBl. II no 272/2014 or is proven by means of a document carried in the vehicle; which documents may be considered proof in this regard are specified with the Euro class vehicle prohibitions (see below) and loaded or unloaded in the core zone (source or destination in the core zone) or loaded or unloaded in the extended zone (destination and source in the extended zone (for zone delimitation see below) or
• only the section of the A 12 Inntal motorway between road distance 72.00 (km) in the Ampass local authority area and road distance 90.00 in the Zirl local authority area is used for the transport of goods (West-South traffic, e.g. transport on the A12/A13 from Vorarlberg to Italy).
further exceptions:
• Exception for journeys primarily involving the transport of perishable foodstuffs with a shelf life of just a few days or exclusively for transport of periodical printed materials
• Exception for journeys for the maintenance of urgent medical care;
• Exception for live animals transport.
• Exception for certain transport in forerun and on-carriage traffic;
• vehicles exclusively powered by an electric engine or vehicles with hydrogen and fuel cell technology
An application may also be made to the regional administrative authorities to be excepted from this vehicle prohibition on a case by case basis.
In addition, the statutory exceptions in accordance with Section 16, para. 2 IG-L apply.
i.e. for instance vehicles powered by a monovalent methane gas engine (natural gas vehicles NGV), vehicles exclusively powered by an electric engine and also plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) with a minimum range of 50 km when powered only by the electric engine, are generally exempt.
Core zone:
The core zone incorporates the political districts of Imst, Innsbruck (state), Innsbruck (city), Kufstein and Schwaz.
The following are within the expanded zone:
• Austria: the political districts of Kitzbühel, Landeck, Lienz, Reutte and Zell am See
• Germany: the districts of Bad Tölz-Wolfratshausen, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Miesbach, Rosenheim (incl. city) and Traunstein
• Italy: the communities of Eisacktal, Pustertal and Wipptal
16.12.2020
On board coaches / trains / excursion ships, a distance of at least 1 meter must be kept from people who do not live in the same household and a mechanical protection device (community mask) covering the mouth and nose area must be worn. If the distance of at least 1 meter is not possible due to the number of passengers and when boarding and alighting, an exception can be made.
The wearing of a mechanical protective device covering the mouth and nose area does not apply to children up to the age of 6 and to persons who cannot be expected to wear the device for health reasons.
Amendment of the Shipping Act
Documents, certificates, proofs and the like with limited validity that would expire after 13 March 2020 remain valid until 31 May 2020. Deadlines that expire after 13 March 2020 will be suspended until 31 May 2020. The Federal Minister is authorised to extend the date by decree until 31 December 2020 at the latest if this is necessary due to measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Start date: 14.03.2020
End date: 31.12.2020
Amendment of the Motor Vehicles Act and the Driving Licence Act
Documents, certificates, proofs and the like (e.g. periodic motor vehicle inspection, periodic inspections of tachographs) with limited validity that would expire after 13 March 2020 remain valid until 31 May 2020. Deadlines that expire after 13 March 2020 will be suspended until 31 May 2020. The Federal Minister is authorised to extend the date by decree until 31 December 2020 at the latest if this is necessary due to measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Start date: 14.03.2020
End date: 31.12.2020
Drivers and companies are advised that double manning is permitted, provided that appropriate safety distances (1m), masks and the general COVID-19 rules of conduct are observed. It is mandatory to wear a mask in public places (when entering service stations, toilet facilities, petrol stations – inside).
On board coaches / trains / excursion ships, a distance of at least 1 meter must be kept from people who do not live in the same household and a mechanical protection device (community mask) covering the mouth and nose area must be worn. If the distance of at least 1 meter is not possible due to the number of passengers and when boarding and alighting, an exception can be made.
The wearing of a mechanical protective device covering the mouth and nose area does not apply to children up to the age of 6 and to persons who cannot be expected to wear the device for health reasons.
National air transport
Hygiene regulations: a mechanical protective device (community mask) covering the mouth and nose area must be worn on board aircraft.
The wearing of a mechanical protective device covering the mouth and nose area does not apply to children up to the age of 6 and to persons who cannot be expected to wear the device for health reasons.
Passengers
New COVID-19-related rules when entering Austria. Goods and passenger transport is exempt.
The Federal Official Journal (Bundesgesetzblatt) in Austria has published (15 October 2020) a new regulation of the Minister of Social Affairs, Health and Consumer Protection, concerning the new COVID-19-related rules for those entering Austria. These rules entered into force on 17 October 2020 and will remain in force until 31 March 2021. According to the new rules, in general, persons coming from EU/EEA countries, Switzerland, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, the Vatican and the United Kingdom (§ 4) may enter without restrictions if:
A detailed list of countries and exemptions can be found in Annexes A and B.
If points 1. and 2. above do not apply, then a medical certificate must be presented verifying that the person has had a negative Covid-19 test (§ 2 and Appendix C or D. The test must not have been taken more than 72 hours prior to entry).
21.10.2020
The wearing of masks is mandatory in the terminals and onboard (crew included). Thorough cleaning (disinfection) of airlines after every flight required. Thermoscanners are authorised. Health declarations are needed. Physical distancing onboard and at the airport required.
Temporary border checks at the land borders with Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Belgium.
16 October 2020, the Ministry confirmed that transport activities (freight, passenger and deliveries) will not be affected by the application of specific regulatory restrictions brought into force by current curfew measures. Please find the text of the decree on the following link (in French only).
Please note that drivers should carry the “justificatif de déplacement professionnel” to ensure that they can continue to carry out their professional activities unhindered.
Travel which involves transfers or transits to or from railway stations or airports relating to long-distance journeys are authorised.
French departmental or regional representatives (Prefects) may take additional measures, within the limits authorised by this decree, depending on the local situation.
Examples of the “justificatif de déplacement professionnel” can be found on the website of the Ministry of the Interior.
Please note that certificates from employer are sufficient to justify business travel and travel between home and work without the need for an individual certificate.
The “justificatif de déplacement professionnel” (in French only), is needed to justify the work of the driver (when he/she is on duty in a curfew area, and when he/she is going to or returning from their place of work to pick up their vehicle before 06:00 or after 21:00, or to leave their vehicle between 21:00 and 06:00).
Professional drivers are exempt from carrying the “Exemption Certificate” as the “justificatif de déplacement professionnel” is the certificate that is mandatory for professional drivers to carry which allows them to operate during the hours of the curfew.
Lifting of traffic bans: Traffic bans are lifted on weekends from 28 November to 27 December for courier services (small parcels, packages). For more information, please see here.
Crew Changes
Restrictions: Conditional
Only European crew authorise to fly inside Schengen area – rest not accepted until further notice // all subject to eventual change by government // airports in France not closed until now // it is recommended by authorities to avoid maximum crew changes and leaves from vessels.
Port Restrictions
Restrictions: Yes
Applied by Harbour Master in their ports. It is not a change as they are checking on documents already provided through prearrival usual procedure (ISPS and Health declaration)
Port Closures & Delays
Expect Closures: No
Expect Delays: Yes
Most ports, pilots/tugs/linemen decided to reduce their team at minimum, service is still in force but impossible to berth/sail/anchor from 2300hrs to 0500hrs. Terminals still working in reduce team.
Freight transport is exempted from the movement restrictions.
On 10 June, FNTR received the following clarifications from national authorities: drivers do not have to present a declaration that certifies the absence of Covid-19 symptoms, nor the lack of contact with a positive case. The Decree of 31 May sets out a declaration of lack of symptoms which is only mandatory for air passengers, and optional for sea and inland waterway passengers. Moreover, road transport workers are not obligated to obtain a declaration from the client that certifies that their work cannot be postponed.
No extra restrictions
Date: from 8th June
The UK has introduced new border measures:
– Drivers of goods vehicles and bus/coach drivers will be exempt from the new 14-day quarantine requirement that will apply to most arrivals in the UK. Drivers will have to demonstrate that their travel into the UK is part of their job. They can do this in a number of ways, for example a letter from their employer, a consignment note or the operator licence would be acceptable. UK authorities provided an indicative template for a letter from the employer; using this template is not mandatory.
On 28 June, the Government announced that the HGV Road User Levy, which is applied to HGVs of 12 tonnes or more, will be suspended for a year. The suspension runs from 1 August 2020 to 31 July 2021.
A Levy rate of zero will automatically apply at a vehicle’s normal VED/Levy renewal date from August onwards.
The suspension is applied to UK and overseas-registered HGVs using the UK’s roads.
Foreign operators who have already paid the levy as an annual payment will be able to claim a refund for the period 1 August 2020 to 31 July 2021, through their user account. Foreign operators who would normally ‘pay as they go’ will not be charged for use of the UK network between 1 August 2020 and 31 July 2021.
More information can be found here.
Crew Changes
Restrictions: Yes
There are no border closures but it is almost impossible to conduct a crew change, as all hotels and restaurants in the UK are now closed and the general public have been asked to minimise social contact and leave their residence for essential purposes only. Airports remain open, but with limited numbers of flights in / out of the country. UK Foreign Office has advised against all overseas travel and requested UK nationals overseas to return home.
Port Restrictions
Restrictions: Yes
Declarations of Health are mandatory, along with details of prior crew changes. Ports are open and trade is flowing. Selected terminals are restricting visitors and shore leave. Cruise vessels are permitted, many are using the UK to lay-up. Anyone showing symptoms of COVID-19 is required to self-isolate.
Port Closures & Delays
Port Closures: No
Expect Delays: Yes
No port closures. We are seeing some delays due to the reduced availability of shore labour in the container and RoRo sectors.
Drivers need to prove that the travel is part of their job. This can be done by, for example, a letter from their employer, the EC International Workers Declaration, a consignment note or the operator’s licence.
In addition, the UK locator form must be completed by anyone arriving in the UK, including all professional drivers and freight workers. Other documents that drivers must have are the consignment note and the True Certified Copy of the Community Licence
The locator form declaration cannot be submitted more than 48 hours before the arrival in UK.
UK authorities have provided guidance in several languages about the contact locator form that individuals need to fill in upon arrival. These documents have been drafted to cover all passengers, not only freight drivers. Whilst freight drivers are exempt from the 14-day self-isolation requirement, referred to in the document, they do have to fill in the form. The locator form can only be filled out online.
In case of multiple entries in the UK within 48 hours, multiple journey can be included in the form.
Since 8 June, new border measures as well as a 14-day quarantine apply to most arrivals in the UK.
Drivers of goods vehicles and bus/coach drivers are exempt from the 14-day quarantine requirement. Drivers have to demonstrate that their travel into the UK is part of their job. They can do this in a number of ways (e.g., a letter from their employer, a consignment note or the operator licence). UK authorities also confirmed that annex 3 is acceptable proof.
Even though they are exempt from quarantine, drivers will have to fill in an online locator form with their contact details and details of their journey. A recent update now allows drivers to complete the form for multiple journeys to the UK over a 48 hour period. UK authorities have confirmed that they are currently working to further improve the process for hauliers and freight workers, particularly for those travelling to and from the UK multiple times during a one-week period.
Non-UK resident freight drivers who have travelled from or through Denmark in the last 14 days can no longer enter UK. UK residents who arrive in England after 4am 6 November after travelling from or through Denmark in the last 14 days – including HGV drivers – must self-isolate along with their household.
The ban is effective and there are no special conditions for road transport. Road transport from DK to UK via France can therefore be performed like this:
Driver takes trailer from DK to DE. Another driver then takes the trailer from DE to UK (provided this driver has not been in Denmark the last 14 days and is not Danish resident).
For more information, please see here.
09.11.2020
On 6 July, the UK Home Office published the list of travel corridors from which people arriving into the UK will not have to isolate for 14 days upon arrival, unless they have visited or stopped in any other country or territory in the preceding 14 days. Those arriving in the UK whose journey started from a country that is not on the list will still have to follow the isolation requirements. It is expected that the list will grow as time goes on. Rules on travel corridors will apply from 10 July onwards.
Crew Changes
Restrictions: Conditional
Crew changes now permitted alongside, not at anchorage. Local agent will need to obtain prior approval from authorities. Accommodation of crew members at hotels is not permitted.
Port Restrictions
Restrictions: Yes
Cruise vessels are temporarily not allowed to call at Estonian Ports until 14th May 2020. All other ports/terminal are open and working.
Port Closures and Delays
Port Closures: No
Expect Delays: No
Only citizens of Estonia and holders of Estonian residency permits (or rights of residence) can enter Estonia, as well as foreign citizens with family members living in the country. There are no restrictions for exiting the country.
Date: From 15th June
Persons (tourists) permanently residing in Germany, Norway and Iceland will also be allowed entry if they can prove that they will stay a minimum of 6 nights in Denmark (outside Copenhagen). The rule does not apply to drivers. For persons residing in Sweden and Finland – a decision has not yet been reached.
On 12 June, the Danish authorities have informed of the opening of Padborg border crossing point from 13 June, from 07:00 to 23:00. Together with Frøslev/E45 and Sæd (both open 24 hours a day), the three can be used by trucks over 3.5 tonnes to cross the border. Members are advised that controls will be increased.
The “blue border” (ferry routes) can still be used and controls will be still carried out. The same applies for the Øresundsbridge between Denmark and Sweden.
Members are reminded that goods drivers are allowed to enter the country unless they show symptoms of Covid-19 virus.
Non-national employers, posted workers and self-employed service providers will now be offered COVID-19 tests at the Danish border. Individuals are advised to take a test if they have travelled from a high-risk area (not mandatory). More information can be found here.
Concerning ADR certificates for drivers, Denmark has signed the M324 multilateral agreement: driver training certificates expiring between 1 March and 1 November 2020 will remain valid until 30 November 2020.
In addition, despite section 6a (2), 1 of the Freight Forwarding Act, the exchange of drivers between companies with a Danish operating license for international freight transport is allowed, pursuant to section 1 (1) 1 of the Freight Transport Act. This applies until 28 April 2020.
STA-licenses (drivers of pilot cars for exceptional transport) that expire between 1 March and 30 April 2020 will have their validity extended until 31 August 2020. This will only apply to transport within the Danish borders.
Drivers who carry out international road transport and have an expired driver’s certificate are advised by the Danish Road Authority to bring the certificate for international transport workers (Annex III from the Green Lane Guidelines).
From 22 August the use of face masks will be mandatory on public transport in Demark, including on ferries. A disposable face mask, good cloth face covering or face visor can be used.
The use of face masks is already mandatory in some Danish municipalities owing to higher infection rates.
Non-national employers, posted workers and self-employed service providers will now be offered COVID-19 tests at the Danish border. Individuals are advised to take a test if they have travelled from a high-risk area (not mandatory). More information can be found here.
Entry restrictions and quarantine measures do not apply to people working in international transport. Details can be found here.
In combination with Covid-specific measures and updates to the Road Transport Act, the following documents are required when entering Czech Republic:
• a document certifying their status, i.e. international transport workers (in English and Czech),
• a proof of their professional competence,
• an employment contract,
• for drivers of companies established in the EU, a Czech translation of their employment contract.
Measures apply as from 1 July.
On 30 June, the Czech Ministry of Health relaxed the rules on travelling to the Czech Republic. Foreigners coming from high-risk countries are still subject to provisions to comply with upon entry. Rules in detail can be read here.
Vehicles in transit through Croatia will use the following border crossing points:
– Croatia – Slovenia border: Bregana and Macelj
– Croatia – Hungary border: Goričan and Duboševica
– Croatia – Bosnia and Herzegovina border: Nova Sela, Stara Gradiška and Slavonski Šamac
– Croatia – Serbia: Bajakovo
On 18 April, the Croatian Government took the decision to abolish the convoy method for transit operations in Croatia.
As of 16 May, Goods drivers transiting through Croatia must only use the motorways. In case the driver crosses the border on secondary roads, he must take the shortest route to the motorway to successfully conclude his transit through the country. Stopping at rest areas is allowed with the obligation of observing physical distancing, both indoor and outdoor.
On 24 June, the Croatian government announced new measures to contain the spread of the virus. As of 00:00 of 25 July, masks are compulsory on public transport (both for passengers and drivers); passengers not complying with the provision will not be allowed to take the public transport.
As of 11 May, citizens from Slovenia, Hungary, Austria, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia, Germany and Poland, can enter Croatia without restrictions and without having to prove the reasons for their travel. Citizens from other EU countries can enter Croatia, provided they are able to prove the reason for their travel.
The government has also set out a special regime for some people entering Croatia: individuals coming from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Serbia and North Macedonia, have to self-isolate for 14 days upon entering the country. The measure does not apply to passengers transiting through Croatia. People transiting through Croatia, to reach a neighbouring country, must check the Ministry of Interior website to learn whether they are eligible to enter Croatia. Once travelling, people must have evidence of their status and eligibility to enter that country before Croatia can permit their entry for transit.
Passengers arriving from non-EU countries are not allowed to enter the country with the exception of residents and nationals of the EU, diplomats, and other international representatives.
Date: From 22 May
Anyone permitted to enter the territory of Bulgaria without quarantine (ie. truck drivers entering and transiting Bulgaria) will be required to present a new declaration to the border health control authorities. This declaration is available in Bulgarian, English, and Romanian.
In order to minimise waiting times, drivers are advised to fill in the declaration prior to their arrival at the border crossing points.
International goods transport drivers entering Bulgaria are reminded that they should still complete and sign a declaration, which is now available in Bulgarian and Romanian, English, Turkish and Czech.
Validity of driving licenses
Date: 13.03.2020- 31.10.2020
Bulgaria has notified that the validity of Bulgarian driving licences expired in the period from 13.03.2020 until 31.10.2020 are extended with 6 months. The extension period is valid only on the territory of Republic of Bulgaria. If the person wants the driving licence can be renew before the end of 6 months period.
On 30 May, the Bulgarian government put in place some more deconfinement measures:
The range of categories allowed to enter and/or transit through the Bulgarian territory has been expanded;
The range of categories not subject to mandatory quarantine has been expanded; quarantine for Bulgarian coach and truck drivers coming from abroad has been lifted (non-Bulgarian drivers were permitted to enter the country without quarantine before that);
The special regime for non-Bulgarian drivers, including the 24 hours deadline for leaving the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria, has been lifted.
As of 2 June 2020, individuals entering Bulgaria who are not subject to quarantine provisions are still required to present a declaration to the border authorities.
On 12 June, the Bulgarian government extended the state of emergency until 30 June. The same measures apply.
International goods transport drivers entering Bulgaria are reminded that they should still complete and sign a declaration, which is now available in Bulgarian and Romanian, English, Turkish and Czech.
The use of face masks is only mandatory on public transport, in pharmacies and medical institutions, and strongly recommended when physical distancing cannot be guaranteed.
The entry into the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria is prohibited to all third country (non-EU) nationals through all border crossing points by all means of transport. Transport personnel engaged in the transport of goods are excluded from the scope of this order.
Updated information regarding the border procedures for both passenger and goods transport at the Hungarian border crossing points can be found here.
07.09.2020
Drivers of vehicles intended for international road transport are not subject to the temporary restriction on entry to the territory of Belarus, introduced on 29 October 2020 at the land border crossing points.
The State Border Committee of the Republic of Belarus informs that “due to the current epidemic situation in the neighboring countries” the Republic of Belarus temporarily restricted the entry of certain categories of individuals from Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Ukraine to its territory through land border crossing points.
Restrictions do not apply to:
• the employees of diplomatic missions and consular offices with the diplomatic and service passports;
• the drivers of the vehicles intended for international road transport;
• the members of train and locomotive crews of international railway communication.
For more information, please see here.
30.10.2020
As of 29 October 2020, the State Border Committee of the Republic of Belarus informs that “due to the current epidemic situation in the neighboring countries” the Republic of Belarus temporarily restricted the entry of certain categories of individuals from Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Ukraine to its territory through land border crossing points.
Restrictions do not apply to:
• the employees of diplomatic missions and consular offices with the diplomatic and service passports;
• the drivers of the vehicles intended for international road transport;
• the members of train and locomotive crews of international railway communication.
For more information, please see here.
30.10.2020
The Government of Belarus has issued Regulation No. 208 of 8 April 2020 which introduces additional restrictive measures. This document shall enter into force on 10 April 2020. The new regulation notably requires that self-isolation requirements shall also be applicable to drivers after completion of international road transport of goods in the territory of Belarus. This also includes drivers who were replaced, in the course of the transit transport operation, and are arriving from countries where COVID-19 has been registered. This applies until the next road transport operation or within 14 calendar days. The regulation also requires that drivers performing international road
On 26 May, the Government of Belarus informed of a new procedure for booking a place in the queue at the border. Companies should be aware that the service is not mandatory, does not come for free and only concerns transport operators crossing the border with Latvia.
The list of specialised places for stopping (parking) for rest and meals for drivers and refuelling vehicles in transit through the territory of Belarus has been extended.
The Resolution of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Belarus of 28 May 2020 No. 321 (enters into force on 30 May 2020) amended the Resolution of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Belarus of 25 March 2020 No. 171; concerning measures to prevent the importation and spread of infection caused by the coronavirus COVID-19.
The obligation to leave the territory of the Republic of Belarus by the shortest route, and no later than the day after the day of entry onto its territory, does not apply to drivers in transit if it is necessary to obtain a special permit on the transport of dangerous goods during the international road transportation.
The new edition contains a list of motorways on which vehicles in transit are obligated to pass and stopping (parking) for rest and meals for drivers, refuelling vehicles is now possible in accordance with Appendix 1 to the Resolution No. 171. This list has been expanded by more than 40 stopping points.
In addition, changes were made that affected the following provisions:
– the requirements of the Resolution No. 171, prescribing to drive only on republican roads, on which stopping (parking) for rest and meals for drivers, refuelling vehicles is possible, and your vehicle leaves the territory of Belarus no later than the day following the day of entry into its territory, will be extended not only for drivers performing international goods transport, but also for all drivers in transit through the territory of the Republic of Belarus using the vehicles intended for international road transport (including empty vehicles and passengers transport);
– drivers who carry out regular international road passenger transport are given the opportunity to not comply with the requirements to pass on republican roads included in the list and stop in specialised places for rest and meals for drivers;
– when performing operations and actions provided for in the first part of subparagraph 1.3. of the Resolution No. 171 (obtaining along the route a special permit for the passage of oversized and heavy vehicles through the territory of a foreign state, a special permit for the transport of dangerous goods during the international road transport of goods, in the event of an accident (breakdown) of a vehicle, as well as in the event of an unloading, reloading (transshipment) of goods, vehicle replacement), the driver must have and submit for control the documents confirming such operations or actions.
The form of the requirement for the driver in transit through the territory of the Republic of Belarus using the vehicles intended for international road transport is set forth in the new edition.
On 29 June, the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Belarus issued Resolution No. 372, which amends Resolution No. 171 of 25 March 2020; concerning measures to prevent the importation and spread of infection caused by the coronavirus COVID-19; as well as Resolution No.311 of 25 May 2020, on the deployment of navigation devices (seals).
Notably, drivers in transit are no longer requested to use designated highways or stop for rest and fuelling at designated rest areas or fuel stations, or exit Belarus, no longer than the next day, upon the date of entry. Drivers are no longer required to use navigation seals for transit via the territory of Belarus. Navigation seals will be offered as an alternative to customs convoy in cases required by the legislation.
Also, drivers who failed to comply with the above requirements will no longer be requested to use navigation seals for transit via the territory of Belarus. Navigation seals will be offered as an alternative to customs convoy in cases required by the legislation.
The Resolution enters into force on 1 July 2020.
Airports, ports, warehouses and carriers remain open and operational.
COVID-19 measures only affect commercial goods transport drivers in the region of Galicia. Drivers entering Galicia have to notify the authorities if they have been in any of the following countries in the last 14 days:
1. Any African country.
2. The following countries in the Americas: Argentina, Aruba, Bahamas, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Venezuela, Haiti (including Tortuga Island), Jamaica and Nicaragua.
3. The following Asian countries: Bahrain, Bangladesh, India, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Kuwait, Maldives, Oman, Palestine, Philippines, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Brunei, Camboya, Indonesia, Laos, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Syria, Thailand, Yemen and Vietnam.
4. The following countries of Europe: Azerbaijan, Andorra, Kosovo and Montenegro.
5. The following country of Oceania: Guam.
6. The following regions (autonomous communities) of Spain: Aragón, Cantabria, Castilla La Mancha, Castilla y León, Madrid, Melilla, Murcia, Navarra, País Vasco and La Rioja.
Road transport drivers only have to submit one notification, and not a notification every time they enter the region, leaving the date of leaving the region empty, except if they visit more countries.
Link to notify the authorities is here.
09.10.2020
In light of uncertainties over procedures and controls being done on road transport operations and until further clarification is provided, ASTIC encourages drivers to have onboard a certificate signed by the sender or the consignee that states that goods being carried are essential, in accordance to the annex of Royal Decree 10/2020. Drivers are also advised to have onboard the declaration of liability, signed by the company, contained in the annex of Ordinance 307/2020. (Updated 07.04.2020)
Regulation for the regions of Navarra and Aragón:
It is compulsory for drivers to carry a certificate, but only in cases where the driver has to leave the vehicle or return to it. For example, if the driver has only to transit the regions of Navarra and Aragón, or go to the centre where he/she has to load/unload the goods, a certificate is not necessary. (Updated 23.10.2020)
On 28 May, the Spanish Ministry of Transport informed that relaxations of driving and rest time rules will not be renewed after 31 May. Therefore, Regulation (EC) 561/2006 will fully apply from 00:00 on 1 June.
The Spanish Ministry of Transport has provided instructions on the use of masks for various modes of transport, in a new Order TMA/384/2020. The instructions include the following:
– for the transport of passengers by road, it is mandatory to wear a mask (both drivers and passengers);
– for the transport of goods by road, it is mandatory to wear a mask in cases of double manning in the cabin.
This new regulation takes effect on 4 May (00:00).
With the end of the nationwide state of emergency, Spanish authorities have decided to reinstate normal driving restrictions for goods vehicles.
Date: From 00:00 of 21 June onwards
Driving restrictions will fully apply for the following categories of vehicles:
Goods vehicles
Vehicles transporting dangerous goods
Vehicles carrying out exceptional load transport operations
National transportation is substantially reduced for passenger transport, but freight transport is not affected by the measures.
As from 12 May, an Order of the Spanish Government has announced a 14 day mandatory quarantine measure for individuals returning from abroad. These people must isolate at home, and can only leave their home for limited and justified reasons.
The following categories are exempted from the measure:
· Cross-border workers
· Transport carriers and crews
· Health professionals going to work, provided they have not been in contact with people that have tested positive to Covid-19
The Order will apply from 00:00 on 15 May, and throughout the duration of the state of emergency and its further prorogations.
Source: CETM
On 29 June, the Spanish Government extended the closure of external borders until 8 July or until the EU Resolution enters into force, which may be before 8 July. Goods transport remains exempted from the provision.
The Greek government has begun to reintroduce restrictive measures.
The only land border open to passengers is the Greek-Bulgarian border crossing point at Promahonas-Kulata. From all other land borders only passengers with exceptional reasons to enter Greece are permitted to cross (permanent residents, family members, work reasons, students, medical reasons, etc.).
For goods transport, entrance by land is permitted at the following border crossing points:
1.Kakavia (GR-ALB)
2.Krystallopigi (GR-ALB)
3.Evzoni (GR-MD)
4.Promachona (GR-BUL)
5.Ormenio (GR-BUL)
6.Nymfaia (GR-BUL)
7.Kipi (GR-TUR)
Additionally, as of 7 August at 23:00, the only land border open 24 hours a day will be the Greek-Bulgarian border crossing point at Promahonas-Kulata. All other land borders into Greece will be closed every night from 23:00 until 07:00 local time. This restriction applies to all vehicles (goods and passenger transport).
This is a general restriction for everyone and no exemptions have been announced so far.
Furthermore, electronic Passenger Locator Form (PLF) and QR codes are obligatory for anyone entering Greece (truck drivers included). It can be submitted here.
Restrictive measures applied for international road transport do not affect the sea borders. Ferry routes from Italy to Greece and vice versa, are operating normally. The use of face masks is obligatory onboard.
Drivers must present an attestation form from their employer, as well as passport/ID, and the CMR, in order to prove transport activity while on Greek territory.
Extensions of Seafarer Employment Agreements are possible. Seafarers’ certificates issued under STCW that expire by 30 May will remain valid for an additional six months.
On 6 July, the Greek Ministry of Transport clarified that international transport workers are exempt from the obligation to fill in the online Passenger Locator Form.
Drivers entering Greece by ship are subject to random health checks and are also asked to fill in a health status questionnaire; whilst onboard, drivers must wear masks. The health form is available in English, and is also provided by the ferry operator on site.
A procedure has been in place for almost 10 years requiring non-EU transport operators to have a valid permit to enter the country. This permit (bilateral, transit, third country or CEMT) must be presented at the customs office of entry. Customs authorities register these permits in an electronic system and provide this information to the Ministry of Transport, which is in charge of the international permits system.
As from 24 October 2020:
•A night curfew from 00:30 until 05:00 in the regional units category 3 (orange zone) and 4 (red zone). Attica and Thessaloniki are included in these categories (a full map showing which regions in Greece are affected can be found here: https://covid19.gov.gr/covid-map)
•There is an exemption for those who work at night and for emergencies. Truck drivers who are working in the restricted areas during the night must have an attestation form from their employer. The Greek government has not provided a specific template for this purpose.
•Masks are mandatory indoors and outdoors.
On 28 May, the Greek Government advised that the relaxation of driving and rest time rules will not be renewed after 31 May. Therefore, Regulation (EC) 561/2006 will apply from 00:00 on 1 June.
As of 06:00 on 15 July, all travelers entering Greece for non-essential reasons through the Promachonas border crossing point will be obliged to present the proof of a negative test upon arrival. The certificate should be dated within 72 hours of taking the test.
Only travellers who have such proof will be allowed to enter Greece by the border authorities. The certificate should be written in English and bear the name and passport/national ID number of the traveler.
The Laboratories that perform the RT-PCR testing should be:
a. National Reference laboratories
b. National Public Health Laboratories, or
c. Private laboratories which are accredited from the respective national accreditation authorities (not necessarily specifically for COVID-19).
Certificates that do not fulfil the above criteria will not be accepted. Certificate forgery is punished by Greek Law.
Travelers will still have to complete and submit their PLF form and may be subject to random testing upon arrival at the Greek border.
Further information can be found here.
14.07.2020
Date: From 1 June, and for a duration of 6 months
The A25/IP5 section of the motorway from Vilar Formoso to the border with Spain is only accessible to vehicles with a width of less than 3.5 metres. This is to allow the works for the extension of the highway to the border to be finished. Exceptional load transport operations are also banned from using this section of motorway.
As from 28 October 2020, face masks should be worn in public areas or/and when social distancing is not possible. This legislation will be in force, at least, for a period of 70 days.
Between midnight, October 30th and 6h00 am November 3rd: professional drivers should have a declaration issued by the employer, attesting that they are in the performance of their professional activities. The declaration should be used in Portuguese language. The necessary data to be filled is in “yellow mark”. Please see here.
Date: from 00:00 on 1 June
Members are reminded that relaxations on driving and rest time periods expired on 31 May, therefore, Regulation (EC) 561/2006 fully applies.
Date: From 1 June, and for a duration of 6 months
The A25/IP5 section of the motorway from Vilar Formoso to the border with Spain is only accessible to vehicles no larger than 3.5 metres. This is to allow the works for the extension of the highway to the border to be finished. Exceptional load transport operations are also banned from using this section of motorway.
As of 28 October, the use of a mask for access, circulation or permanence in public spaces and roads became mandatory, whenever the physical distance recommended by health authorities proves to be impractical.
This new legislation for the use of mask, will be in force, at least, for a period of 70 days.
The circulation of people between municipalities throughout the national territory between 00h00 of October 30th and 6h00 am. as of November 3rd is prohibited. Travel outside of the municipalities is allowed only in the very specific situations listed in paragraph 16 of the Resolution of the Council of Ministers 89-A/2020, of 26 October.
Crew Changes
Restrictions: No
Crew exchanges are permitted in all ports.
Transportation to/ from vessel and airport should be arranged directly without any stops or overnight accommodation.
Port Restrictions
Restrictions: No
Government has expanded measures and has terminated the carriage of passengers bysea transport, with the exception of goods and freight transport. Port of Helsinki has cancelled cruise ships calls until restrictions are lifted.
Port Closures and Delays
Port Closures: No
Expect Delays: No
On 19 May, the Finnish Parliament adopted a legislative package on temporary modifications to transport legislation. The amendments aim to facilitate business activities and people’s daily lives and ensure well-functioning transport operations under the emergency conditions resulting from the coronavirus epidemic. Concerning road transport, relevant measures are the following:
· The notification period of providers of passenger transport services will be shortened from 60 days to 5 days.
· The Finnish Transport and Communications Agency will be allowed to renew a taxi driver’s licence so that the applicant can submit the required medical certificate within six months of the renewal of the licence. This applies to licences that expire between 16 March and 31 October 2020.
As from 24 August, travellers arriving in Finland from a country with travel restrictions are recommended to stay in voluntary quarantine for 14 days. Travellers arriving in the country will be given instructions on how to proceed. The list of countries is assessed on a regular basis, and the Government has stated that restrictions can be lifted if the number of new infections in a country has not exceeded eight cases per 100,000 persons over the previous two weeks.
European countries:
Travel restrictions are in place with the following countries:
– Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, France, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
– From 24 August 2020: Cyprus, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Malta, Norway and San Marino.
Note that traffic across border crossing points between Finland and Sweden and between Finland and Norway will be permitted between local border communities.
Non-European countries:
Restrictions on entry from non-European countries continue for all other countries except: China (provided that the Council of the EU confirms reciprocity with China), Georgia, Japan (until 23 August), New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia and Uruguay.
Return travel to Finland, business travel and other necessary traffic is permitted. In addition, transit traffic will be permitted at airports.
Note that no further specifics regarding transport of goods have been communicated (but no further restrictions either).
As the detailed requirements keep changing, we recommend you check the specific guidelines on the following websites:
Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare – Travel specific COVID-19 info
Ministry for Foreign Affairs on COVID-19
Border Guard
On 8 August 2020, Germany introduced compulsory testing for the COVID-19 virus for persons entering the country from “areas of heightened risk”. At land border crossings, authorities will perform spot checks for the relevant certificates.
However, § 4 of the relevant ordinance (see the links in German and English) establishes an exemption from compulsory testing for persons who are exempted from the 14 days’ quarantine under regional COVID-19 regulations. The quarantine regulations in all regions of Germany establish such exemptions for persons who are professionally transporting passengers or goods by road, rail, ship, or plane. As a result, drivers of international goods transport or passenger vehicles are not subject to compulsory COVID-19 testing.
Lists of heightened risk of COVID-19 infection are being posted and regularly updated by the Robert Koch Institut (RKI) and may be found at the following link.
As of 1 September, all driving bans on Sundays and public holidays in all German states are once again in place. For more information in German please see here and here.
Port of Hamburg remains well connected despite temporary changes in sailing schedules.
Cross-border transport of goods and traffic by cross-border commuters is still possible.
All German Federal States have introduced legislation making the use of facial masks mandatory in order to prevent further spreading of the COVID-19 virus.
However, due to the federal structure of Germany, there is no unique nationwide provision defining the exact circumstances in which a mask must be worn.
Therefore, to ensure that legal requirements are definitively fulfilled, BGL recommends that drivers wear a facial mask whenever leaving the vehicle’s cabin.
For what concerns domestic passenger transport in Germany, BDO has provided an overview table and map (in German) on the current state of bus travel bans as well as preventive measures to be applied on board.
Date: 19 June
The Hungarian Parliament put an end to the state of emergency, replacing it with a state of “epidemiological preparedness”.
Foreign nationals cannot enter Hungary whilst Hungarian (and their families), EU, EEA and EFTA citizens (except UK citizens), are allowed to enter the country. Detailed rules concerning travel to/from Hungary can be found here.
No restrictions apply to freight transport operations; mandatory transit routes previously in place have been dropped.
Members are reminded that the temporary relaxations of driving and rest time rules have ceased to apply on 31 May. Drivers can still benefit from the lifting of driving restrictions for vehicles over 7.5 tonnes, which is in force until 21 June.
On 21 June, effective immediately, the Hungarian government revoked the general exemption of driving restrictions for goods vehicles over 7.5 tonnes.
Updated information regarding the border procedures for both passenger and goods transport at the Hungarian border crossing points can be found here.
On 29 May, the Hungarian Government informed that relaxations on driving and rest times would expire on 31 May. Therefore, Regulation (EC) 561/2006 fully applies from 00:00 on 1 June. Members are also reminded that Hungarian Authorities allow double manning (passengers in the cabin are not considered double manning and, therefore, are not allowed).
1.Passengers are not allowed to enter Switzerland. This does not apply to nationals or residents of Switzerland or Liechtenstein. This does not apply to passenger with a cross-border commuter permit who are entering Switzerland for work, with a C-visa issued by Switzerland for the purpose of “business meetings” as specialists in the field of health or “official visit” of great importance, with a D-visa issued by Switzerland or who have an assurance of a residence permit. This does not apply to passengers traveling directly through Switzerland to another country that they are permitted to enter. This does not apply to passengers who are entitled to freedom of movement and have a professional reason for entering Switzerland and have a confirmation of registration. This does not apply to passengers who are of great importance as specialists in the health sector. This does not apply to passengers travelling by land to their country of origin or residency within the European Union or Schengen area. They must have a proof of onward journey.
2. Passengers can only land at Basel (BSL), Geneva (GVA) or Zurich (ZRH).
As of 15 June, all border crossing points are open; both private and commercial transport is allowed. Goods drivers are allowed to operate to, from and through Switzerland if they have a bill of lading.
Not applicable
As of 27 June, Swiss public transport has returned to standard timetables, with the recommendation for passengers to wear face masks at peak times.
On 15 June, borders with EU countries, Iceland, Norway, Lichtenstein and the UK were opened, and the fines imposed on people doing cross-border shopping lifted. Travel between Switzerland and a country that is not part of the Schengen Area is still not allowed. Provided they can prove their status with official documentation, the following categories are exempted from the provision:
• Swiss citizens.
• Holders of a travel document (e.g. a passport or identity card) and
– a residence permit, i.e. a Swiss residence permit (L / B / C / Ci permits)
– a cross-border permit (G permit; only for work-related purposes)
– an FDFA legitimation card
– a D visa issued by Switzerland
– a C visa issued by Switzerland after 16 March 2020 in a valid exceptional case
– a C visa issued by Switzerland in order to work on a short-term contract
– an assurance of a residence permit from a cantonal migration authority or an entry permit with a visa issued by Switzerland (an employment contract is not sufficient to cross the Swiss border. Persons with an assurance of a residence permit may enter Switzerland at the earliest three days before the date on which assurance becomes valid).
• Holders of a refugee’s travel document issued by Switzerland and a valid residence or permanent residence permit or a valid F permit.
• Individuals who have rights of free movement.
• People transiting through Switzerland to another country that they can enter.
• People in a situation of special necessity. The border control authority will assess the necessity of such situation.
• Specialists in the healthcare sector who need to enter Switzerland for important work-related reasons and who hold a confirmation of notification, an assurance of a residence permit or an entry permit with a visa issued by Switzerland.
Crew Changes
Restrictions: Yes
All Schengen Area Member States have approved a plan proposed by the EU Commission which closes the external borders of the territory, for at least till May 15, 2020 to halt the further spreading of the COVID-19. The travel ban will affect all non-EU nationals from visiting the bloc. The exception to the EU entry Ban for transport personnel engaged in haulage of goods sees to container ships, bulk carriers, tankers, fishery, personnel engaged in the energy sector, meaning oil- and gas platforms, windmill parks and offshore companies providing services to this sector.
Port Restrictions
Restrictions: Yes
ALL seagoing vessels calling Dutch ports must submit a Maritime Health Declaration, regardless of the situation on board. In case of deviations from the Maritime Health Declaration, Port Authority will contact the Municipal Health Service for recommendations about the reported case. A yellow quarantine flag is not necessary in the Netherlands. No restrictions for vessels to enter port, except for cruise vessels ( see ports for specification ). Shore leaves are strictly discouraged. Crew members are only permitted to go ashore for medical reasons.
Port Closures & Delays Rotterdam
Port Closures: No
Expect Delays: No
Port Closures & Delays Amsterdam
Port Closures: No
Expect Delays: Yes
Temporary relaxation of periodical checks for train drivers and other railway safety personnel.
The Netherlands have notified a temporary relaxation on periodic checks such as medical suitability, psychological suitability, and staff competence regarding train drivers and other railway personnel in safety functions.
Start date: 01.03.2020
End date: 30.06.2020
Freight transport activities within, to and from Sweden are not impacted by these measures.
Since March 16, the Swedish Transport Agency has granted a temporary tolerance for the application of the rules on driving and rest times for freight transport operations. Valid 30 days and applicable to all types of transport as long as it does not affect road safety.
