Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Gaborone, Botswana (3/18/2020)
On March 16, the Government of Botswana announced a ban on all travelers (except Batswana citizens and Botswana residents) originating from or transiting through the following countries: the United States, China, Japan, South Korea, Iran, United Kingdom, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and India. Batswana and residents returning from high-risk countries will be subjected to 14-day mandatory quarantine. Issuance of Botswana visas at ports of entry for any person from these countries has been suspended. Those traveling to, but who have not entered, Botswana no longer have valid visas, nor will they receive visas on arrival. Those visa holders from these countries already in Botswana should consider their visas valid.
As of March 16, all but four land border posts with South Africa are closed. Border posts with Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Namibia currently remain open. There are currently no restrictions on outbound travel from Botswana. Travelers should be prepared for additional travel restrictions to be put into effect with little or no advance notice. U.S. citizens who are considering returning to the United States are urged to work with their airlines to make travel arrangements while flights are still available.
The Botswana Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW) requests individuals who demonstrate symptoms related to COVID-19 should call their health care provider or the MoHW Emergency Operations line at 363-2273/2756/2757 for further instructions.
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
