EU Implements Temporary Restrictions on Non-Essential Travel

A temporary restriction on travel will be imposed for all non-essential travel by citizens of third countries to the "European Union +1 Area." This was reported by the EU Delegation office in Armenia to Armenpress.

In order to ensure that the temporary travel restriction achieves the desired effect in terms of limiting the spread of the pandemic, exceptions will only apply to essential travel. The temporary travel restriction will not affect citizens returning to their place of residence from all EU member states, the Schengen area, and associated countries.

The restriction will not apply to:

• Individuals with EU citizenship, Schengen area, and associated country citizenship and their family members;
• Non-EU citizens who have long-term residency status in accordance with the provisions of the Long-Term Residence Directive, or who have the right of residence under other EU directives or national legislation, or hold a long-term visa for an EU member state;

Additionally, the restriction will not affect the following categories of essential travelers:

• Healthcare professionals, individuals conducting medical research, and medical personnel caring for the elderly;
• Cross-border workers;
• Personnel involved in the transport of goods;
• Diplomats, international organization staff, military personnel, and humanitarian aid specialists in the course of their professional duties;
• Transit passengers;
• Individuals traveling due to family imperative reasons;
• Individuals in need of international protection or for other humanitarian reasons;

Those permitted to enter the "European Union +1" area must undergo systematic and enhanced health screening.

The temporary travel restrictions will be implemented for a period of 30 days. The extension of this period will be assessed based on further developments.