The state of emergency in Serbia has been lifted, but some measures are to remain still. Here is what you should know about the gradual return of life back to normal.*
On Wednesday, 6 May, the Assembly of the Republic of Serbia lifted the state of emergency, introduced on 15 March, as well as the lockdown, but numerous emergency measures that were adopted due to the coronavirus epidemic remain in force today.
Wearing gloves and masks is mandatory in public transport, restaurants and cafes, offices and other business premises. Until further notice, the prescribed physical distance of two meters will be in force. Public gatherings with more than 50 people are not allowed unless it is announced to the police station at least five days in advance.
Until further notice, hugs and handshakes should be avoided.
Businesses are recommended to continue working at full capacity, respecting preventive measures which, among other things, include mandatory disinfection of premises, floors, furniture, machines, tools and devices.
The distance between employees, whenever the nature of the job allows, is recommended to be such as to avoid direct contact and masks and gloves must be used.
In case of suspicion that a person has COVID-19 symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing), it is recommended the person be removed from the work premises without delay.
Celebrations such as weddings, baptisms, birthdays will be allowed from 15 June.
Belgrade City transport, which started on 8 May, can be used by all citizens (not only employees), but with certain restrictions – entry only from the first door only, wearing a mask and gloves, using every other seat…
The EU has officially announced it will keep its external borders closed until 15 June, with a gradual concession, first opening internal borders between members, before opening external ones.
On 1 June Serbia will fully open its borders with Northern Macedonia, Albania, BiH and Montenegro. There are announcements that when they are open, a 14-day quarantine or a negative test for coronavirus should be valid for those who come to Serbia, and not older than three days. Residents of the border zone between Serbia and Hungary can now cross without self-isolation or isolation measures, and negotiations are underway with Bulgaria on the introduction of the same regime.
Air Serbia, will resume a limited scheduled passenger air transport services on 18 May (London Heathrow, Frankfurt, Zurich, and Vienna), increasing to a comprehensive schedule on 15 June.
Entering Serbia with a negative PCR test or self-isolation
Serbian citizens and foreigners with approved temporary stay or residence status in Serbia, may enter Serbia and move without restrictions with a negative PCR test for coronavirus done abroad not older than 72 hours.
If one doesn’t have the test with a negative result from abroad, all our citizens who stayed abroad for more than 72 hours, will be obliged to self-isolate at home for 14 days.
Foreign nationals without approved temporary stay or residence status in Serbia may enter Serbia under two conditions – a negative PCR test for coronavirus not older than 72 hours and a permit issued by a commission consisting of representatives of the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Construction, Transport and Infrastructure, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of the Interior.
More information on the application for the permit may be obtained via info.covid-19@gov.rs.
The football championship continues on 30 May, the basketball league is still on hold, but it is certain that the matches will be played without an audience.
For people over 65, it is recommended to continue to spend more time in their homes.
Opening of cinemas and theatres is not expected any time soon, while shopping malls are opened from 11 May.
Although the Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development has not yet made a final decision, there are indications that student dormitories and faculties could start working after 15 May. The plan is to hold exercises and practical classes by the end of May, with intensified protection measures, which could not be realized at a distance.
As of Monday, 11 May, children can return to kindergartens and younger students in the daycare centres of primary schools, in compliance with the 35 rules prescribed by the experts of the Institute of Public Health in Belgrade. Teaching in schools will continue to take place at a distance via online platforms.
*article will be updated