LNP – New guidelines for passengers arriving in SL from midnight today

Fully vaccinated local and overseas passengers who had negative PCR test results done within 72 hours before their departure, are not required to be subject to an on arrival PCR test at the airport in Sri Lanka from midnight today, Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella said.

He said all passengers should have received both doses of the Covid-19 vaccine before two weeks of their arrival.

The Health Ministry said in a communiqué that the decision was taken during a meeting at the Ministry chaired by Health Minister Rambukwella this evening.

The meeting was held at a request made by Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunge and was attended by higher officials of the Health and the Tourism Ministries.

Health Services Director General Asela Gunawardane said foreigners and overseas tourists who were not fully vaccinated would be allowed to travel to their hotels under bio-bubble and that they would be subject to a PCR test there.

He said however, Sri Lankans would be subject to a PCR test at the airport or at the hotel where they were staying and would be allowed to leave home based on the results of the PCR tests.

He said they will be subject to another PCR test on the 12th day and would be allowed to mingle with the society, only if the PCR test result is found negative.

He also said those who do not have home quarantine facilities could choose either state-run quarantine centres or hotels to undergo the mandatory 14-day quarantine.