10/16/20
By Sanna Kyynäräinen
It’s no news that the COVID-19 pandemic is the hot topic of the day, every day. Many of you might agree that not seeing news about the virus for just one day would be a relief. However, as coronavirus continues to be a part of our daily lives, Finland Center Foundation has put together a handy list for anyone planning to return to, or visit Finland in the next few weeks. This post is primarily based on the recommendations by the official website of the Finnish Government, and the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) website. You may access the sites by using the links at the end of this post.
As has been the case for months, cross-border travel to Finland continues to be restricted from many countries. The United States is also on the list of “banned” countries, based on the number of cases – nearly 8 million cases as of day of posting, and over 214,000 deaths in the U.S. However, this ruling might change come November. The Finnish government is planning a new approach, starting November 23rd. The official website of the Finnish government states that “with the new approach, passengers arriving from countries with a high incidence of COVID-19 must have a certificate of a negative COVID-19 test taken less than 72 hours prior to their arrival.” This could mean that travel from the United States to Finland could resume in a little over 4 weeks’ time. It should be noted, however, that unnecessary travel is not recommended at any time.
Finnish nationals have had, and continue to have the ability to return to their home country unrestricted – although this has been complicated by the lack of flights for many. Everyone currently residing in Finland also has the right to leave the country, but it may not be guaranteed that the destination country will receive travelers – including the United States. When I attempted to board a flight that had a transfer in the United States in August, access on the plane was not permitted as transit through the United States was forbidden without a Permanent Resident Card. Similar measures may still be in effect, even for those who live in the U.S., but do not hold a Green Card.
Similarly to other nations, some standard regulations are in effect in Finland; Using a face mask is mandatory on planes and airports, including Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, and highly recommended in all other public spaces – including public transportation, grocery stores, pharmacies, and medical facilities. The Cities of Helsinki, Vantaa, and Espoo recommend using a facemask in all municipal services (https://www.hel.fi/helsinki/coronavirus-en/information/face-mask).
A 10-day voluntary self-quarantine is highly recommended after arriving to Finland from certain countries (see picture). Unnecessary visits to anywhere outside one’s home are advised against during the quarantine period. Social distancing is recommended at all times. No one should travel or visit public spaces if they are feeling ill. See your local providers’ instructions on obtaining a COVID-19 test. Test facilities are separate units in many cities, and have strict rules. Recommendations for getting tested may vary by provider – as a general rule of thumb, travelers who do not have symptoms after the 10-day quarantine, do not need to be tested. The Government recommendation to avoid visiting hospitals is no longer in effect.
The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare recommends that anyone arriving from a red or grey country self-quarantine for 10 days. The organization says that “quarantining is recommended even if you transit through a green country on your return trip to Finland.” However, visitors arriving directly from a green country do not need to self-quarantine.
The Finnish Government states that travel within Finland is allowed as long as travelers “observe good hand and respiratory hygiene.”
If you wish to visit restaurants or bars, bear in mind that many require the use of a face mask. Starting from the beginning of October, bars, clubs, cafes and restaurants must stop selling alcohol at 10pm, and must close by 11pm. Only half of the maximum number of customers may be present at a time. Staff in various establishments generally wear a mask and/or a visor to protect themselves, and the customers from spreading the disease.
Having said all this – following the official guidelines of the Finnish government – one must note that the reality may look different. People still spend time in bars and restaurants, meet their friends and family without wearing a mask, and even visit the grocery store on their way to obtaining a COVID test (as my colleague witnessed a couple of days ago). As in the U.S., there is controversy in Finland over the necessity and effectiveness of wearing a face mask. I encourage anyone reading this to disregard this controversy. By wearing a mask and following adequate hygiene measures, you are protecting others as well as yourself from the virus.
The fact that a widespread pandemic is still among us, does not mean that life should end. It is understandable that you want to keep in touch with your loved ones and do all the things you normally do in your spare time. With certain limitations, this is of course allowed, and even recommended. But do keep in mind that the longer we disregard the advice from medical experts, the longer the virus will rampage. So try to live your life as normally as possible, but do it responsibly.
To sum up:
1. Make sure that you’re allowed to travel, and have the necessary paperwork with you when traveling. Do not travel if you have symptoms of the coronavirus, or are feeling ill.
2. Wear a face mask at all times, especially on planes, airports, and public transportation. Avoid public transportation if you can.
3. Abide by social distancing rules, and avoid visiting public places when possible.
4. Self-quarantine for 10 days after you have traveled.
5. Avoid visiting restaurants and bars. If you do go out, do it responsibly.
6. Do not be pressured by locals not wearing a mask. The use of a face mask is officially recommended, even if certain individuals refuse to wear one.
Restrictions and regulations are bound to change, so please see the latest updates on the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare site: https://thl.fi/en/web/infectious-diseases-and-vaccinations/what-s-new/coronavirus-covid-19-latest-updates and the Finnish Government’s official website: https://valtioneuvosto.fi/en/information-on-coronavirus/current-restrictions before making any travel plans.
Last but not least, take care of yourself during these extraordinary times. Healthy habits like exercising and eating nutritious foods take you a long way. Do also remember to stay in touch with your loved ones in any way that suits your situation best, even if it's virtually. Stay healthy, and remember to wear a mask!
P.S. FCF is organizing an outdoor Nordic walking event and a following picnic this coming Sunday! Show up to restore both your body and mind! More information in our Events-section: https://www.finlandcenter.org/events