May 5, 2021
Location: Sri Lanka
Event: New COVID-19 cases, including the B.1.1.7 variant, have increased sharply through Sri Lanka to all-time highs. The Government of Sri Lanka has issued revised guidelines under Alert Level 3.
Recent updates: New Alert Level 3 guidelines restrict many essential businesses, to include supermarkets, retail stores, restaurants, and financial institutions to 25 percent of maximum occupancy. Day cares, schools, cinemas, swimming pools, bars, clubs, spas, and other services are closed. Meetings, weddings, conferences, and large gatherings are not permitted.
Numerous areas are under isolation with restricted travel. There may continue to be checkpoints and an enhanced police presence. New travel restrictions can arise, and curfews can be imposed with short notice. Visit the Sri Lankan Ministry of Health Epidemiology Unit COVID-19 website for the latest updates.
Travel: U.S. citizens who wish to depart Sri Lanka should take advantage of available commercial transportation options now. Passengers should check the airline and destination country websites for updated information. If an American Citizen is determined to have COVID-19, he or she is likely to be placed in mandatory quarantine in a local government hospital, consistent with Sri Lankan protocols. The Embassy is severely limited in its ability to visit individuals under quarantine and may be unable, as a practical matter, to secure the release of U.S. citizens until their complete recovery.
The United States government does not have the capability to provide COVID-19 vaccinations or testing services to private U.S. citizens abroad. U.S. citizens who wish to return to the United States for a vaccine are reminded that proof of a negative COVID-19 test result, taken within 72 hours of their flight’s departure, is required for air travel to the United States. After arrival in the U.S., a follow up test is needed within 5 days, and individuals who are not fully vaccinated (as defined on cdc.gov), must self-quarantine for 7 days. Requirements to return to a residence abroad will also vary by country.
Travelers should be prepared for additional travel restrictions to be put into effect with little or no advance notice.
Actions to Take:
- Consult the CDC website for the most up-to-date information.
- Visit the COVID-19 crisis page on travel.state.gov for the latest information.
- Check with your airlines, cruise lines, or travel operators regarding any updated information about your travel plans and/or restrictions.
- Visit our Embassy webpage on COVID-19 (lk.usembassy.gov/COVID-19-information/ )for information on conditions in Sri Lanka.
Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy – Colombo Sri Lanka
+94 11-249-8500 phone
+94 77-725-6307 phone (after hours emergencies)
ColomboACS@state.gov - State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
Sri Lanka Country Information - Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts.
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