On May 6th, 2021, The Government of Anguilla finally made an announcement of reopening the island’s borders to visitors on May 25th, 2021. This was followed by a month-long closure to effectively manage the cluster of active Covid-19 cases that were last identified on April 22nd.
Even though the island suffered a momentary setback due to which it had to shut its borders on April 22nd, the authorities of Anguilla acted rather swiftly and instantly implemented an array of proactive measures to contain and manage the mass of infections, along with an extensive outreach of vaccinations.
The results were fruitful, and the Anguillan authorities are finally confident now to safely reopen the borders while simultaneously safeguarding the health of its visitors and residents. In this guide, we look at the Anguilla Entry Program and highlight the entry requirements and process so that visitors interested in traveling to this splendid island can travel prepared. It is important to be aware a visa to Anguilla is needed.
Traveling to Anguilla amid Covid-19
Anguilla, the tiny Caribbean nation, officially declared to reopen itself to foreign visitors on May 25th, 2021, with the objective to welcome back leisure travelers after it had suspended all means of tourism on account of a spike in the number of coronavirus cases.
According to the Anguilla Tourist Board chairman, Kenroy Herbert, the intense outbreak of numerous Covid-19 positive cases is believed to have stemmed from an illegal entry into Anguilla.
That massive cluster of coronavirus cases has fortunately been contained. Since May 10th, no new coronavirus cases have been identified. At present, there are only 3 active cases on the island of Anguilla.
The bubble vacation-in-place program that was initiated last fall had been quite effective. According to Herbert, there were a few cases in which people had tested positive. However, there wasn’t any community-wide spread to other people or staff members.
Hence, the program and guided movement seemed to work quite well for Anguilla for a few months until now. Sanctioned trips include allowing people to visit many of Anguilla’s offshore keys, scuba diving and snorkeling excursions, access to golf courses, kayaking, and meals at a handful of the most popular restaurants in Anguilla.
Even amid the deadly Covid-19 pandemic, Anguilla remains one of the most sought-after and desirable destinations. This can totally be reflected in the islands’ solid forward bookings for the upcoming holidays.
Stacy Liburd, the Director of Tourism in Anguilla, states that the island is looking forward to welcoming several repeat guests. It also expects a horde of newcomers who can witness for themselves what makes the island a destination that’s beyond extraordinary.
What You Need to Know About the Anguilla Entry Program
It is important to note that the measures that were previously released are yet to remain in place. Until June 30th, 2021, all travelers to the island must present proof of a negative PCR Covid-19 test.
The test must be administered at least 3-5 days before the arrival date. Travelers must also register themselves online and pay a $300 application fee for the 1st traveler and $200 each for the additional visitors. Until June 30th, all visitors will be PCR retested upon arriving.
Required Vaccinations to Replace the Bubble Program from July
Anguilla has recently made an announcement to do away with this bubble program commencing July 1st. This is the same day Anguilla will take measures requiring visitors qualified for Covid-19 vaccines to be completely immunized before arriving on the island.
According to Herbert, anyone who isn’t vaccinated at least 3 weeks before coming to Anguilla will not be permitted to enter. Here are the new measures that will be imposed from July 1st, 2021, for vaccinated visitors.
Anguilla Entry Program from July 1st, 2021 | Vaccinated Visitor(s)
- All the visitors to the island of Anguilla who are eligible for a vaccination against the deadly Covid-19 pandemic must be entirely vaccinated at least 3 weeks before arriving in Anguilla.
- Travelers who hold evidence of a complete vaccination against the Covid-19 are not required to quarantine on arrival, provided the final dose of the vaccine has been administered at least 3 weeks before the arrival date.
- People entering the island won’t be required to present a negative Covid-19 test administered 3 to 5 days before arrival.
- It is mandatory for visitors to apply for entry permission.
- Fully vaccinated individuals will not have to undergo another test upon arrival.
- There are no entry fees required.
- There is no proof of health insurance required.
- Multi-generation groups and/or families with a mix of individuals who aren’t qualified for the Covid-19 vaccine (such as children) will not have to quarantine. However, they will need to submit a negative PCR test that’s administered 3-5 days before arrival. These people might also have to undergo a test on arrival and subsequently during the stay. The required tests are also subject to a fee.
From July 1st onwards, fully vaccinated visitors will be free to explore Anguilla without any restrictions.
The Application Process to Visit Anguilla
According to the Official Travel Guide of Anguilla, here is what you need to do to visit this gorgeous island.
- Apply online
If you do not have a PCR test yet, simply submit your application and upload your test results afterwards. Make sure you click submit and double-check to see if your application has been submitted.
You will have to wait for an automated response confirming your application receipt and number. You must begin the process of applying at least 7 days before you intend to travel to Anguilla.
- Submit proof of your negative PCR test results at least 3 to 5 days before your arrival date
The final consent will be granted upon receipt and once the negative Covid-19 rt PCR test results have been approved. The only Covid-19 test that is acceptable is the rt polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test through a nasopharyngeal swab.
- Wait for the final instructions and approval regarding the payment of fees
Your official travel authorization certificate will be allotted after the completion of payment. Visitors who are fully vaccinated will not be subjected to any quarantine or fees after July 1st. Additionally, it is mandatory for all departing and arriving passengers to wear facial masks while in transit to the island and in public places during their stay period in Anguilla.
So, what are you still waiting for? The extraordinary island of Anguilla is now open for visiting purposes for pre-approved visitors. Your trip to paradise on earth is just a few clicks away, so stop stalling and Apply NOW!