Financial Crime Prevention Measures Tightened in Wallis and Futuna Amidst COVID-19 Concerns

Enhanced Domestic Rules to Combat COVID-19 Spread

As of July 7, authorities in Wallis and Futuna have implemented enhanced domestic rules to combat the spread of COVID-19. The government has:

Expanded face mask requirements to all public establishments, including professional settings
Continued enforcement on public transportation and transport hubs such as Hihifo Airport and Mata Utu and Leava quays

Social distancing measures have been reinstated, requiring a 1-meter gap in public areas. While uneven enforcement is anticipated, travelers must now take a rapid antigen test at WLS before traveling to Futuna, with those testing positive for COVID-19 required to:

Self-quarantine for up to seven days
Exit quarantine on day five if they return a negative result

International Travel Restrictions and Testing Requirements

The government has issued new international travel restrictions, including:

Allowing entry for fully vaccinated travelers via flights from New Caledonia
Requiring unvaccinated travelers to provide compelling reasons for travel

Permitted arrivals must present:

Negative PCR test results taken within 72 hours prior to departure
Rapid antigen test result on the day of departure

Entrants will be required to quarantine at designated hotels for three days, although the government plans to allow self-quarantine at home or accommodations from July 11.

Eased Testing Requirements and Quarantine Measures

Testing requirements will also be eased, with travelers able to exit quarantine on day three with a negative rapid antigen test result instead of a PCR test. The government aims to lift quarantine measures by August 8.

Important Reminders for Residents

Residents are advised to:

Follow official instructions
Abide by health and safety measures
Reconfirm travel arrangements
Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance
Contingency plans should account for potential extensions or disruptions due to the ongoing pandemic

Additional Resources

For more information on financial crime prevention measures in Wallis and Futuna, please visit the Wallis and Futuna Government website.