STATEMENT FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF IMMIGRATION 27 February 2020 – As announced by the Honourable Prime Minister, Fiji has widened its travel restrictions to prevent an outbreak of COVID-19.
From 28 February, Fiji’s borders will be closed to all foreign nationals who have been in mainland China, Italy and Iran, or in Cheongdo County and Daegu City in South Korea, within 14 days of their intended travel to Fiji.
This follows the travel restriction placed on mainland China which has been in effect since the start of February.
From Monday next week, we will also be screening all international air passengers with handheld temperature scanners and – in two to three weeks’ time – we will have thermal scanners installed at our international airports.
From 28 February, all cruise ships entering Fijian waters will be required to make first berth at ports in Suva or Lautoka, where all passengers on board will also undergo our earlier-announced medical and travel history checks.
As of 27 February 2020, there are no confirmed cases of the coronavirus in Fiji. Given the global spread of the virus, the government has decided on this measure of extreme precaution in the interest of mitigating the risk of an outbreak of the coronavirus in Fiji.
Government is working closely with all international carriers to ensure that any travelers who fall under these restrictions are not permitted to board flights to Fiji at their international departure location.
Earlier-announced precautionary measures to maintain a hygienic environment and screen ill passengers will continue to be taken in-flight to further minimise any risk.
Fiji is closely monitoring the spread of COVID-19 and is prepared to pursue more stringent courses of action if deemed necessary.
Yogesh J. Karan
Permanent Secretary, Office of the Prime Minister and Immigration
