ASEAN

Eased restrictions for those fully vaccinated against Covid-19 in Nepal

NEPAL has become the latest country to ease Covid-19 regulations for those vaccinated against the coronavirus.

Fully vaccinated arrivals now only need to isolate themselves at home instead of being quarantined at designated hotels.

Authorities have also relaxed the guidelines for those yet to be vaccinated, where their mandatory 10 days hotel quarantine has now been cut down to seven days.

It applies to both Nepalis and foreigners entering the country.

The move comes as Nepal has also allowed a limited number of scheduled international flights into the country, after lifting a ban in place since March last year.

The Himalayan nation has reported a drop in Covid-19 cases in the country, with 1,509 new cases recorded on Monday, a sharp decline compared to its high of 9,317 cases on May 11.

According to a report in the Kathmandu Post, the new quarantine rules were approved by the Cabinet on June 21 and has since been implemented.

Tribhuvan International Airport general manager Pratap Babu Tiwari told the Post that all travellers to Nepal need to submit a photo attached barcode or QR code, which includes a negative PCR test report done within 72 hours before departure.

However, if the country of origin does not issue a photo attached barcode or QR code documents, they need to liaise with Nepal's diplomatic missions abroad.

Travellers have to also fill up details in the Abroad Returnee Management System at the Covid-19 Crisis Management Centre (CCMC) website.

They can also fill the relevant forms at the airport before the health screening test upon landing in Nepal.

Nepali nationals need to do a PCR test on the seventh day of quarantine at their own expense and if the report is negative they are allowed to go home and continue to be in home isolation for another four days.

Nepalis who have been deported, are returning home after being released from jail or who don't have enough finances, Nepali diplomatic missions will investigate and recommend them for government support.

They will be kept in quarantine in government facilities and all expenses related to their trip and PCR test, will be paid by the government.

The Post said that members of the diplomatic community and international organisations and their family members are allowed to spend 10 days at quarantine centres arranged by their respective offices or organisations.

They are allowed to work after 10 days if they test negative.

Nepal currently allows only entry by air for foreigners and all land entry is remains banned.

However, 13 land entry points have been opened for returning Nepalis.

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