Singapore Bans Entry Of All Foreigners With Travel History From South Africa

JAKARTA - The Singapore government prohibits all foreign nationals (WNA) who have a history of travel to South Africa (South Africa). This is because there is a new variant of COVID-19 that is endemic in the country.

"All foreigners who have a history of travel to South Africa within the past 14 days are prohibited from entering and transiting in Singapore, even though they have long and short term residence permits," the Health Ministry said.

Meanwhile, Singaporeans and permanent residents are allowed to enter Singapore but they are required to take a COVID-19 swab upon arrival and undergo a 14-day quarantine.

"This new type of virus is believed to be more infectious, but there is not enough evidence to show the severity of the new virus variant, antibody response or vaccine efficacy," the Singapore Ministry of Health explained.

Experts are still investigating various questions regarding the new variant of the virus. The Health Ministry said it would examine various available data and evaluate policies related to border opening.

The entry ban to Singapore for foreigners with a history of travel to South Africa will take effect from January 4, 2021.