ESC prepares a regular update on the measured introduced by the EU Member States related to COVID-19.
For the recent information, please see here.
For general and press inquiries, please contact Katsiaryna Kliuyeva at k.kliuyeva@europeanshippers.eu, or on +32479858439.
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: 24th June- 15th July
Bulgarian authorities extended the state of emergency.
Quarantine rules have been set out as follows: people entering the territory of Republic of Bulgaria from Sweden, UK and Portugal, as well as from third countries, except Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Lichtenstein, San Marino, Andorra, Monaco and the Vatican, shall be quarantined for a period of 14 days at home or other accommodation where the person has indicated that he/she will reside, with a prescription issued by the director of the relevant regional health inspectorate, or a person authorised by him.
Exemption to the quarantine provisions are granted to Bulgarian citizens and citizens of other EU Member States, UK, and Schengen States (including San Marino, Andorra, Monaco and the Vatican) who are:
-Travelling for humanitarian reasons
-Representatives of trade, economic and investment activities and persons directly involved in the construction, maintenance, operation and security of strategic and critical infrastructure of the Republic of Bulgaria. In the implementation of projects certified under the Investment Promotion Act, analysis of projects of potential investors and other activities relevant to the country’s economy. The journey must be certified by a letter from the Minister of Economy or other ministries responsible for the respective activities. Persons involved in shipbuilding and ship repair, including their family members, are also exempt.
-Bus drivers performing international transport of passengers
-Truck drivers performing or completing international transport of goods
-Vessel crew members who are Bulgarian citizen
-The following persons, regardless of their nationality, are also exempt: medical professionals, medical scientists, social workers, and their managers, if the purpose of their journey is linked to their professional work; workers involved in the delivery of medicinal products, medical devices and personal protective equipment, medical equipment, including its installation and maintenance; officials (Heads of State, Government, etc.) and members of their delegations, as well as diplomats, officials of international organisations, military personnel, personnel of the security and public order services and humanitarian workers, carrying out their duties, including their family members
-Cross-border workers
-State administration officers on short-term business trips abroad, carrying out their duties.
On 15 July, Bulgarian authorities extended the emergency epidemic situation until 31 July 2020. The measures for drivers remain the same.
The Bulgarian General Directorate of Border Police has received information from the Greek border authorities that from 00:00 on 22 July 2020 the Greek checkpoint Exochi, adjacent to the Bulgarian Ilinden, will be closed in both directions for all travelers, regardless of their nationality, and for all types of vehicles, including trucks. The checkpoint will be closed until 3 August 2020.
Seafarers: Expired certificates extended by three months (13.03.2020)
Seafarers’ certificates that expire before 13 June are extended by up to three months. Seafarers may work for up to three months after the expiry of their medical certificate. Seafarers with expired foreign STCW certificates will be granted a temporary exemption for up to 3 months.
Bulgaria has suspended until further notice international trains, performing cross-border passenger services to and from neighbouring countries – Turkey, Greece, Serbia, and Romania. Start date: 17.03.2020.
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.
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.
Goods transport is not subject to restrictions nor quarantine provisions. Members are advised that the health check protocol is meant to apply only to passengers; however, enforcement authorities appear to have misinterpreted the new rules and have started to request that drivers also complete. More clarification is expected from the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Health, which will be shared as soon as possible. In the meantime, drivers arriving in Greece by sea are advised to fill in the form to avoid unnecessary fines.
On 8 July, the Ministry of Citizen Protection withdrew the exemption initially granted to international transport workers from filling out the Passenger Locator Form.
Therefore, drivers travelling to Greece have to submit the duly filled out form and get a QR code; a dedicated check box for drivers has been included in the document, which allows the submission at any time before the date of arrival (whereas, passengers travelling to Greece must submit the form within 48 hours before their arrival).
From 00:00 on 22 July 2020 the Greek checkpoint Exochi, adjacent to the Bulgarian Ilinden, will be closed in both directions for all travelers, regardless of their nationality, and for all types of vehicles, including trucks. The checkpoint will be closed until 3 August 2020.
Crew Changes
Restrictions: Yes
Port Restrictions
Restrictions: Yes
Passenger vessels / cruise vessels are not allowed. Health declaration required for vessel’s calling Greek ports. Cargo vessel’s are allowed to call for cargo ops and/or provisions , during cargo ops all precaution measures as per WHO to be taken. Shore leave not permitted
Port Closures & Delays
Expect Closures: No
Expect Delays: No
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.
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.
From 1 July until 31 August, new procedures are in place for travellers arriving in Greece. All individuals entering the country must fill in a Passenger Locator Form (PLF) upon arrival. Passport and customs controls are carried out and each person’s unique quick response (QR) code is checked on their mobile phone screen or on the printed form with their QR code. Depending on their code, arriving travellers are directed by security personnel either to the screening area or are allowed to continue their trip to their final destination in the country. They will be given instructions from the border personnel concerning, in particular, required action in case they develop symptoms of respiratory infection, in which case they must immediately contact the National Public Health Organization (EODY) Operations Centre. If arriving travellers plan to have multiple stop-overs in Greece, they must declare this and report their initial destination and their travel itinerary for the next 7 days. EODY Mobile Health Units (KOMY) operate around the clock at land border checkpoints.
Arriving travellers who test positive for Covid-19 are obliged to self-isolate at the address of their final destination as declared on their Passenger Locator Form (PLF). Their data is entered into the EODY information system, which is linked to the Covid registry to facilitate contact tracing in the event someone tests positive. Upon completion of the screening, and after having received instructions concerning self-isolation and until the results of their screening are announced, they can enter the country.
All passengers must follow all necessary preventive hygiene measures (use of masks and physical/social distancing). Masks or face coverings are mandatory in public transport, taxis, lifts, hospitals, clinics and diagnostic centres. Masks are recommended in supermarkets, hair salons and other enclosed spaces. Those violating the rules may be fined 150 Euros. Physical distancing measures are in effect until further notice.
The land borders with Albania, North Macedonia and Turkey remain closed until further notice.
As of 06:00 on 15 July, all travellers 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 traveller.
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.
Travellers will still have to complete and submit their PLF form and may be subject to random testing upon arrival at the Greek border.
In order for these changes to be implemented, the PLF system will not be available for travel through Promachonas until 00:01 of 14 July. Travellers who had already issued their PLF forms will still be able to cross the Promachonas border crossing, but travellers without a PLF form will not be allowed to enter and should reschedule their trip for Wednesday 15 July.
The other land border stations remain closed for non-essential travel.
Further information can be found here.
14.07.2020
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.
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.
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.
Start date: 27.07.2020
End date: 30.09.2020
Third-country nationals arriving from out of Schengen area are not allowed to enter Austria
Third-country nationals arriving from Schengen area, Andorra, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Ireland, Monaco, Romania, San Marino, United Kingdom or Vatican are required to provide a health certificate5 not older than 72 hours which confirms that a negative molecular biological SARS-CoV-2- test is given and are required to start a 10-days quarantine.
Remaining persons are required to provide a health certificate5 not older than 72 hours which confirms that a negative molecular biological SARS-CoV-2- test is given or are required to start a 10-day quarantine.
Exemptions apply to (persons are allowed to enter Austria, but are required to provide a health certificate5 not older than 72 hours which confirms that a negative molecular biological SARS-CoV-2-test is given): persons traveling on business, members of diplomatic missions and staff of international organizations, humanitarian workers, nursing and health personnel, seasonal workers, cargo-transport workers, and some other categories.
For more information, please see here.
For driving restrictions, please see information in German here.
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).
Date 16.03.2020-30.06.2020
In addition to the general Austria-wide restrictions, the current development also requires specific traffic restrictions regarding local or regional freedom of movement, which have already been or may in future be imposed for certain regions depending on the development and spread of the virus for other regions.
The mandatory wearing of mechanical protection devices covering the mouth and nose area and providing a barrier against droplet infection applies to all business premises exempted from the restriction and to public transport.
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.
Please see 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.
From 18 May 2020:
The weekend and holiday driving bans have been fully reintroduced in the Czech Republic for trucks and combination vehicles with a MPW of over 7.5t, and trucks and special vehicles with trailers if the MPW of the motor vehicle exceeds 3.5t.
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.
The following provisions do not apply anymore:
-Obligation to have a self-certification.
-Obligation to notify local health authorities upon entrance.
-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.
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.
From 1 July until 30 September 2020, Euro 3 and Euro 4 goods vehicles over 3.5 tonnes can still drive through the Fréjus Road Tunnel provided that the vehicle owners have already ordered replacement greener vehicles (Euro 5 or Euro 6). A declaration has to be filled out (in Italian, French or English).
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
No relaxations of driving and rest times.
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
People cannot use public or private means of transport to reach a different municipality from the one they are currently in, with the exception of work or health reasons or in cases of extreme urgency.
Public transport will continue to run.
On 10 July, the Italian Government issued an entry ban for individuals entering and transiting Italy who, in the last 14 days, have been in or have transited through one of the following countries: Armenia, Bahrein, Bangladesh, Brazil, Bosnia Herzegovina, Chile, Kuwait, North Macedonia, Moldova, Oman, Panama, Peru, Dominican Republic. Direct and indirect flight connections to and from those countries are suspended.
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.
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
Belgium has adopted a Proposal of law to take control measures against the spread of coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 in railway matters.
Seafarers: Extensions of certificates available (18.03.2020)
Medical fitness certificates will be accepted for three months after expiry date. Seafarers can apply for temporary certificates that will be valid for six months. Belgium also issues temporary documents issued to replace STCW certificates, these will be valid for three months. Electronic documents are accepted. Requests for dispensations to the Safe Manning Document will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Extensions to the Seafarers Employment Agreement can be granted.
Collective passenger transport normal timetables are resumed and mouth masks become mandatory
on board and at the stations. In line with the advice regarding unnecessary journeys abroad, all coach
services are in a lockdown phase.
The EU Member States and associated Schengen countries still temporarily ban all non-essential travel to and from so-called “third countries” in the EU+ area until 30 June 2020.These measures may be extended.
The temporary travel restrictions do not apply to persons doing essential work or for compelling reasons, such as:
• Health professionals, health researchers and professionals providing care for the elderly.
• Frontier workers.
• Seasonal agricultural workers.
• Transport staff responsible for the transport of goods and other transport personnel, as necessary.
• Diplomats, staff of international organisations, military personnel and humanitarian workers in the performance of their duties.
• Passengers in transit.
• Passengers travelling for compelling family reasons.
• Persons in need of international protection or for other humanitarian reasons; travel in accordance with the principle of ‘non-refoulement’.
On 13 July, the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs updated its travel advice list and included Sweden in the red list.
Countries and areas included in the red list are subject to a formal travel ban and mandatory test and quarantine upon return in Belgium.
Full details can be read here.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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, ports, warehouses and carriers remain open and operational.
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.
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.
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.
Date: from 11 June
Slovakia has opened all border crossing points with neighbouring countries, with the exception of Poland. On the Slovakia-Poland border, controls will be carried out until 26 June, and the only open crossing points are Trstená-Chyžné and Vyšný Komárnik-Barwinek.
Restrictions to inland waterway transport:
Slovakia prohibits the landing/stopping of cargo vessels that do not perform loading, unloading, and transhipment 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.
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.
As of 30 June, all COVID-19 related entry restrictions are lifted for both Serbian and foreign citizens. It is no longer necessary to have a negative PCR test or special permit to enter Serbia. The government also abolished self-isolation requirements upon entry. Travellers should be prepared for restrictions to change with little notice. The website of the government provides regular information on these measures.
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).
Air traffic from Italy and China is interrupted.
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.
Date: From 12 June until 23:59 of 30 June
The Portuguese government renewed the deconfinement plan. Social distancing measures remain mandatory and face masks should be worn in public areas or/and when social distancing is not possible.
Borders remain closed until that date, but authorities have decided to open additional crossing points, which are: Melgaço, Lugar do Peso, km 19,800, EN 202; Monção, Avenida da Galiza, km 15,300, EN 101; Miranda do Douro, km 86,990, EN 218 and Vila Nova de Cerveira, km 104,500, EN 13. These border crossings are open on weekdays from 07:00 until 19:00.
Extension of validity of driving licenses and certificates for other professionals; suspension of training activities
Portugal has notified an extension of validity of driving licenses and certificates for other professionals where the expiry date is after the 24.02.2020. Driving teaching and face-to-face training activity for professional certification has been suspended.
Start date: 14.03.2020
End date: 30.06.2020
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.
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.
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).
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
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.
Roro vessels for goods transport are running normally to and from Malta.
Sea passenger transport is banned until further notice. No restrictions on sea freight, between Malta and the continent.
As from 1 July, Malta will open borders with the following countries: Austria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France (except for Ile-de-France), Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy (except for Emilia-Romagne, Lombardy and Piemonte), Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Poland (except for Katowice Airport), Slovakia and Spain (except for Madrid, Catalonia, Castilla-La Mancha, Castile and Leon). Upon arrival in Malta, travellers must sign a declaration that they have spent the past 30 days in a country on the “safe list”. Outside the EU, Iceland, Israel, Norway and Switzerland are on the list of countries from which people are allowed to travel to Malta.
People urgently travelling to Malta from countries other than those mentioned above have to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival.
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
No restrictions apply to the carriage of goods.
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.
No relaxations of driving and rest times.
The State of Emergency ended in Latvia on June 9. However, borders are only open to residents of Latvia, other EU Member States, countries in the European Economic Area and Switzerland, that hold proper residency documentation. The Government of Latvia is monitoring the rates of COVID-19 in these countries and passenger from countries with more than 15 cases per 100,000 inhabitants will be required to self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival.
International passenger transport operations cannot be performed to countries listed by the Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. The transport of workers that is specifically carried out so that they can fulfil their work duties is exempted from this provision.
From 10 June, movements of people to and from countries at risk is banned; road transport workers are exempt from this provision, as well as from quarantine requirements upon entry into Latvia.
Borders with Russia and Belarus remain closed for all international passenger travel.
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.
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).
In addition to the news shared last week, the German Bus and Coach Operators’ Association BDO prepared the following clarification on quarantine measures in Germany:
The federal and state governments have agreed that all persons entering Germany from third countries (countries outside EU) are required to self-quarantine for two weeks. Persons travelling from Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and the United Kingdom are exempt from this requirement, as are persons travelling from EU countries. Please note that persons travelling from these countries could be instructed to quarantine if, over the last seven days, the number of new infections in the respective country has amounted to more than 50 per 100,000 inhabitants (detailed numbers can be found on the Robert-Koch-Institut website).
The quarantine requirement does not apply to persons entering Germany from a third country with an infection rate already determined as low. A list of these countries will be published on the Robert-Koch-Institut website.
Please consult the website of the specific German federal state to which you are travelling, either in which you have your residence or in which you intend to stay, for more details as rules may vary from state to state.
As of 16 June, temporary border controls, introduced in March 2020 at the German borders with Austria, France, Switzerland and Denmark, will be abandoned. Entry into Germany of travellers from EU member states and EU associated states, will no longer be subject to show proof and justification of the urgent need to travel. Restrictions may still be reintroduced again subject to the pandemic’s further development.
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.
Extensions of seafarers’ certificates by six months
Surveys hindered by COVID-19 countermeasures are suspended until 30 June. Electronic short-term certificates are being issued to replace expiring certificates that cannot be extended under current circumstances. Seafarers’ certificates and endorsements of recognition that expire before 1 September are extended by six months. Medical certificates that expired after 1 January 2020 will be extended until 30 June. Extensions of STCW certificates can be granted. All ship certificates and seafarers’ certificates that expired after 1 January 2020 are accepted until 30 June. Electronic three-month certificates are being issued to replace expired Ship’s statutory certificates.
On 26 May, the German region of Niedersachsen decided to prolong the suspension of weekend and holiday driving bans for trucks until 31 August 2020. Niedersachsen has also decided to suspend the additional summer restriction (special sections of motorways on Saturdays between 1 July and 31 August from 07:00 to 20:00).
The German region of Baden-Wurttemberg has also decided to suspend the additional summer restriction (special sections of motorways on Saturdays between 1 July and 31 August from 07:00 to 20:00). This decision has already been reflected in the BAG publication. However, Baden-Wurttemberg has not yet decided to prolong the suspension of the weekend and holiday driving ban, which is valid until 30 June 2020.
On 28 May, the German government informed that, in the absence of compelling reasons that justify further prorogations, 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.
On 10 June, the state of Schleswig-Holstein informed that a general exemption from the ban on driving on Sundays and public holidays pursuant to § 30 (3) and (4) StVO continues to apply until 31 August 2020 in accordance with § 46 (2) StVO. This also applies to empty runs.
In addition, the state of Schleswig-Holstein grants a general exemption from the driving ban in accordance with § 1 paragraph 1 of the holiday travel regulation on Saturdays in the period from 1 July to 31 August 2020.
Situation in rest and service areas on German motorways:
– In rest and service areas operated by the TANK & RAST group, use of the SANIFAIR
sanitary facilities free of charge since 17.03.2020, with the objective of ensuring drivers’ access to crucial hand hygiene. BGL is in contact with all remaining providers of motorway rest and service areas to ensure ongoing services and access to sanitary facilities with suitable opening times for all German rest and service areas on motorways.
Measures lifted are the following:
– Possibility to extend driving time to 10 hours five times per week.
– Possibility to take two consecutive reduced weekly rests within a period of four weeks.
The measure applies to professional and own account transport.
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.
On 19 May, the German Federal Ministry of Transport recommended that regional governments suspend the additional German summer restrictions concerning special sections of motorways on Saturdays between 1 July and 31 August from 07:00 to 20:00. However, for the time being, implementation of this recommendation is still pending implementation by the regional governments. The states of North Rhine-Westphalia and Saxony-Anhalt have already granted such an exemption.
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.
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.
Despite the general limitations of the movement of persons to fight against Covid-19 spreading, the following provisions apply in France regarding the transport of goods: cross-border flow of goods are authorized to enter the French territory as long as it is compatible with the protection of public health.
Start date: 18.04.2020
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.
From 1 July until 30 September 2020, Euro 3 and Euro 4 goods vehicles over 3.5 tonnes can still drive through the Fréjus Road Tunnel provided that the vehicle owners have already ordered replacement greener vehicles (Euro 5 or Euro 6). A declaration has to be filled out (in Italian, French or English).
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.
The following temporary relieves apply:
– Daily driving times extended to 10 hours a day. Drivers can also choose to drive for 11 hours
a day for a maximum of two days during a week
– Extension of weekly driving times to 60 hours a week and 102 hours on two consecutive weeks,
provided such extensions respect legal provisions on driving and rest times applicable to drivers.
Road freight transport (conditions are applicable to drivers and staff at loading and unloading
points)
o Social distancing rules must be observed.
o Where there is no access to water, disinfectant gel must be made available.
o No personal contact is allowed when signing contracts.
o Goods can only be delivered at the place indicated on the transport document.
o Home delivery is only possible by leaving the goods at the door. No physical contact
with the customer is permitted.
o Delays for complaints about the delivery have been set.
On 14 May, the French Ministry of the Interior issued an authorisation form with which transport companies can perform domestic operations beyond 100km from their place of establishment and outside their department of residence.
On 24 June, the Finnish Government updated policies on travel and border crossing rules. Controls at internal borders have been lifted for the following countries: Germany, Italy, Austria, Greece, Switzerland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Hungary, Liechtenstein. Travel to Finland has been allowed for people coming from Croatia, Cyprus and Ireland. The Government will continue to assess the overall situation in the Schengen Area and the EU Member States until 10 July, and will update the list of countries based on the development of the pandemic at that time.
Based on the current epidemiological assessment, internal border control and travel restrictions will continue between Finland and the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Luxembourg, Malta, Portugal, Poland, France, Sweden and the Czech Republic, with the exception of leisure boating. Anyone travelling from Finland to these countries must remember to check the entry restrictions for the country of destination.
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
Freight and goods traffic will continue as usual.
The temporary relaxations on driving and rest time rules based on EU Regulation 561⁄2006, which apply until 31 May in Finland, will not be further extended. Normal driving times and rest periods will apply again as of 1 June 2020.
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.
Public transport services will not stop. However, the use of the services has already decreased.
Inbound passenger transport operations are suspended, except for citizens and residents returning to Finland. Finnish citizens and residents must not travel abroad.
As of 1 June, the Estonian borders have been reopened for people arriving from European countries.
Concerning arrivals in Estonia, no self-isolation at home is required if people:
· arrive from a EU Member State, a Schengen country or the UK,
· show no symptoms,
· have stayed in one of the countries mentioned above, where the infection rate has been below 15 persons per 100.000 inhabitants during the past 14 days.
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
At the border control, travel documents and medical symptoms will be checked.
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.
Passengers are not allowed to enter the country, with exception to residents and nationals and passengers with connecting flights. Passengers who can prove that they have vehicle parked at the airport which they will use to travel to a connecting country (e.g. Sweden) will be allowed to do so.
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.
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).
The relaxations of driving and rest time have not been prolonged.
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.
As of 10 June, maritime border crossing points have been reopened.
Extensions of seafarers’ certificates by up to three months
Extensions to certificates of up to three months can be granted under certain conditions. Seafarers certificates that will expire before 18 June are granted a general extended validity of up to three months. Expired medical certificates may be treated as valid for up to three additional months. Temporary endorsements of foreign certificates for up to three months can be applied for.
As of 7 May, the requirement for international goods drivers to quarantine upon arrival does not apply anymore.
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.
The Ministry of Transport of Belarus introduced temporary restrictions on axle loads of vehicles operating on public roads from 1 July to 20 September. The provision aims at ensuring safety on highways when daytime temperature exceeds 25° C. Therefore, the maximum permissible axle load for vehicles running on asphalt concrete pavement will be 6 tonnes. The restriction will apply from 11:00 to 20:00 inclusive.
The provision does not apply to the following cases:
sections of toll roads;
M-14 highway Second ring road around the city of Minsk;
section from km 0 to km 14.7 of the highway R-80 Sloboda – Papernya;
roads on which drivers are required to transit through the territory of the Republic of Belarus for vehicles intended for international road transport, according to the list in accordance with Appendix 1 to the Resolution of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Belarus of 25 March 2020 No. 171 «On measures to prevent the importation and spread of infection caused by the coronavirus COVID-19».
No restrictions, apart from sanitary checks.
The Government of Belarus has issued a Regulation No. 256 of 24 April 2020 with amendments to the previous Regulation No. 171 of 25 March 2020. These amendments are effective from 1 May 2020, and reflect some of the supportive measures for the industry, including those initiated by the association “BAMAP”.
For vehicles registered in Belarus and used for the international road transport operations of goods, the validity date of the following documents has been extended for 30 calendar days:
· certificates of approval of a road vehicle for the international carriage of goods under customs seals;
· certificates of admission of a road vehicle (except for wheel tractors, also in combination with trailers or semi-trailers) issued to validate permission to be on the road;
· international certificates of vehicle technical inspections;
· certificates of technical control issued to validate the compliance of a road vehicle with the ECMT technical standards.
The extension for 30 calendar days will be applicable to the above documents in cases where the validity date expires between 1 May 2020 and 30 May 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.
Date: 7th June- 30 September 2020.
The Belarusian Government has issued a Regulation of 25 May 2020 No. 311 on the deployment of navigation devices (seals). The document notably requests that transport operators in transit who have violated subparagraph 1.2. and (or) 1.3. of the Regulation of 25 March 2020 No. 171 (i.e. failed to use only designated highways or parking areas to comply with transit deadlines) will be allowed to transit the territory of Belarus only in cases where navigation seals are attached to the goods compartments of their vehicles in order to track their location.
These provisions shall not apply in cases of malfunction of the navigation system caused by technical problems, or breaches in the means of communications, or when customs escorts are used in accordance with the customs procedure of customs transit.
Navigation seals will be attached at the border crossing points before entry into Belarus either by customs authorities, or by the national operator (Belneftegaz), or by other authorised entities.
Removal of navigation seals will be carried out at:
– the external borders of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) by either the customs authorities, or by the national operator (Belneftegaz), or by other authorised entities;
– the RUS-BLR border by either the national operator (Belneftegaz) or by other authorised entities.
Governmental Regulation of 25 May 2020 No. 311 has also set a fee for this service – 3 basic units which is currently BYN 81 or EUR 31, VAT included.
This legal act has been adopted by the government to ensure deployment of navigation seals in Belarus, as well as to take additional measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and will remain in force until 30 September 2020.
As from 15 June, maritime and air borders have re-opened.
The border crossing Blato and Shepchishte-Trebishte (Debar) is completely closed for any kind of traffic.
Goods transport will be allowed, subject to medical checks for drivers.
Public transport operations are banned until further notice. Taxi services are allowed for a maximum of two passengers from the same family per vehicle.
Public transport operations are banned until further notice.
Since 1 June, land borders with all neighbouring countries are open.
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.
The following measures apply until further notice:
– Reduction of frequency of national regular bus services
– Suspension of international bus services except for repatriation transport
Public transport on Sundays is suspended until 4 May.
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.
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.
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.
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.
