COVID-19 Precautionary Measures in Uruguay (21 April Update)

Can a resident enter the country?

• Yes

• Citizens and residents are allowed to enter the country.

Can a foreigner enter the country?

• No, with exceptions.

• Most foreign citizens from any country are prohibited from entering Uruguay.

• For temporary entry for business, professional or judicial reasons, an application for an exemption from the entry ban can be requested from the Uruguayan immigration authorities. Foreign travellers must prove that the trip is necessary and cannot be postponed. Exceptions to the ban on foreigners entering the country can be found here. Further information on justifiable reasons for entering Uruguay and required documentation can be found here.

• Foreign travellers must complete the Entry Authorization to Uruguay. If the visit to Uruguay is approved, the traveller will receive the authorization in the form of a pdf document.

Is a test required on arrival?

• No, with exceptions

• Health screenings are available at every port of entry.

• After the first seven days of quarantine, travellers have the option to take another PCR test and be released if the test is negative.

Test certificate required?

• Yes

• Travellers over the age of six must show proof of a negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test performed up to 72 hours prior to departure.

Is quarantine required on arrival?

• Yes

• Travellers must enter a mandatory quarantine for 14 days. After the first seven days, travellers have the option to take another PCR test and be released if the test is negative. If the traveller does not choose to have another PCR test, they will be required to quarantine for another seven days.

• Based on the above restrictions, the traveller will be required to spend between 7 and 14 days in quarantine.

Is vaccination required?

• No

• A vaccination for COVID-19 is not required for entry into the country.

Insurance required?

• Yes

• Travelers must have insurance which includes coverage for COVID-19 expenses.

Entry form required?

• Yes

• The government requires eligible travellers to complete the “Entry Authorization to Uruguay” form online here.

• As part of the entry authorization procedures, travellers will get a “Health Passport”, which is the final step in the procedure for the Entry Authorization to Uruguay”. When the authorization is granted, the traveller will receive an email with a link to complete the Health Passport.

Recommended Border App

• Yes

• Travellers can download the COVID-19 tracking application, “Coronavirus UY,” here for Android users and iOS users can download the app here.

Airline restrictions

• Significant

• Limited international commercial flights are operating.

Is transit through Uruguay possible

• Transit from third countries through Uruguay is currently not possible. The national borders are closed to passenger traffic, and there are no connecting flights.

Border restrictions

• Significant

• Land and maritime ports are closed.

Curfew restrictions

• Minimal

• No curfew is in place.

Social distancing restrictions

• Significant

• Citizens are advised to avoid large gatherings and crowds.

• Individuals 65 years of age or older must practice mandatory self-quarantine.

• Tele-working is mandatory whenever possible.

• All individuals are advised to immediately contact the Ministry of Public Health if they develop symptoms of COVID-19.

• All public offices remain closed excerpts for essential services until 30 April.

Internal travel restrictions

• Moderate

• Public transportation is operating at a reduced capacity.

• There are no restrictions on the freedom of travel and movement in the country.

• Taxis and Ubers can work with a reduced capacity of up to three passengers at one time. Wearing a face mask and social distance is mandatory on public transportation.

Non-essential shops open?

• Yes, with exceptions

• Malls, supermarkets, shopping centres are open with social distancing restrictions.

Restaurants open?

• Yes, with exceptions.

• Restaurants are open but are subject to strict infection control and hygiene requirements. The establishments must at midnight until 30 April

Bars and cafes open?

• Yes, with exceptions.

• Bars and cafes are open but are subject to strict infection control and hygiene requirements. The establishments must close at midnight until 30 April

Museums and heritage sites open?

• No

• Access to tourist infrastructure varies from region to region.

Places of worship open?

• Yes

• Religious services may take place. Face masks are necessary. Services cannot exceed 45 minutes.

Events allowed?

• No, with exceptions

• All public shows and major events are suspended.

• Gyms, clubs, and amateur sports practices are suspended until 30 April.

Masks required in public?

• Yes

• Face masks are required in public spaces.

Other

• All schools are closed, and classes will continue virtually until 3 May.

• Individuals who do not comply with COVID-19 protocols can be fined.

The COVID-19 epidemic is constantly changing worldwide. Travel and border restrictions may change with little or no notice. Airlines may have their own requirements for testing, masking, and distancing. It is recommended that travellers carry a supply of face masks since the requirement can vary by location. It is recommended that travellers practice social distancing and maintain a 6-foot distance from other individuals and avoid crowded areas. Check with your airline, booking agent, or country's embassy for information on your specific travel plans.