Brazil closes borders with Uruguay for foreigners

The move is to be effective for 30 days and may be extended

Published on 23/03/2020 - 13:31 By Karine Mello - Brasília

In a bid to curb the spread of the pandemic of the new coronavirus, the Brazilian government ordered the country’s borders with Uruguay to be closed for foreigners coming from the neighboring country.

This was the last frontier still open following the restrictions imposed by Brazil last week on residents from nine countries.

The measure is to remain effective for the next 30 days, but may be extended if recommended by Brazil’s sanitary authority Anvisa.

The ban does not apply to Brazilians born or naturalized, spouses or partners of Brazilian nationals, Uruguayans who have Brazilian children, foreigners living in Brazil, foreign professionals on a mission or working for an international organization, and foreign workers credited with the Brazilian government.

No restrictions have been imposed on the traffic of cargo, previously authorized humanitarian actions, and the traffic of residents from border areas.

Non-compliance may lead to immediate deportation and prosecution.

On Thursday (Mar. 19), Brazil also banned the entry of foreigners flying from countries in Europe, Asia, and Oceania.

Translation: Fabrício Ferreira -  Edition: Kleber Sampaio / Denise Griesinger

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