As pilot project, Argentina reopens land border with Chile for four days

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – The Argentine government authorized as from Monday (27) -for four days- the entry of tourists from Chile and Brazil by land to the bordering provinces of Mendoza and Misiones in the framework of a decrease in the number of cases of the new coronavirus.

The decision was published on Monday in the Official Gazette and involves a “pilot test of border tourism” until September 30, which enables the entry of Brazilian and Chilean citizens, residents of both countries or those who have stayed there in the last 14 days prior to entering Argentina.

Entry from Brazil to Misiones, where the tourist Iguazú Falls are located, can be made through the Tancredo Neves land crossing. Meanwhile, entry from Chile to Mendoza – another of the most visited destinations due to its wine production – is through the Los Libertadores International Pass.

Before the pandemic, several tens of thousands of people entered daily through these land crossings.

To enter Argentine territory it will be necessary to have completed the vaccination schedule at least 14 days prior to arrival, present a negative PCR test performed within the previous 72 hours and perform an antigen test upon arrival.

If those entering the country are not infected, they will be exempted from quarantine but will have to perform a PCR test between the fifth and seventh day after their arrival in the country. Those who test positive for COVID-19 will have to remain isolated in provincial establishments.

The resolution emphasized that the government has been in favor of promoting gradual relaxations for entry into the country while maintaining controls on travelers.

It also specified that as from October 1 the pilot test will be extended to the international airport near the Iguazú Falls.

According to recent government regulations, as from that date the arrival of citizens from neighboring countries will also be authorized through land borders. Then, the entry will be progressively increased through all corridors, including air and sea corridors, and as from November 1, all foreigners will be allowed to enter the country with a complete vaccination schedule and a negative PCR test performed within the previous 72 hours.

Meanwhile, as from Friday, Argentines coming from abroad who have been fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to their arrival will enter the country without the need for quarantine.

The number of infected people has been steadily decreasing in Argentina, as well as the occupation of intensive care beds, according to reports from the authorities. This led to the recent announcement of the relaxation of some restrictions.

Since the virus hit Argentina in March 2020, some 5.2 million people have been infected and more than 114,800 have died.

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