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Which Countries Still Have Mask Mandates?
Although the majority of countries around the world have dropped all entry restrictions going into 2023, including vaccination requirements and pre-departure COVID tests, there are still a number of countries with mask mandates in place.
As of the end of 2022, more than 150 countries have dropped all entry restrictions.
This is a far cry from two years ago, when there were no more than half a dozen countries on this list, or even one year ago, when much of the world was still mired in COVID regulations.
However, some countries (including those that have dropped vaccine and testing requirements) may still have mask mandates in place.
This information is less readily available than other COVID-related restrictions, so this is not meant to be an exhaustive list of all countries that still have mask mandates in place.
The countries on this list are popular destinations that may have dropped other restrictions, but still have some form of mask mandates in place.
Although you can breathe freely knowing the majority of countries around the world no longer require masks in any situation, these countries still have mask mandates entering 2023:
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Ecuador
Although Ecuador had originally dropped its indoor mask mandate in late April of this year, it was reinstated on December 8 and applies to “indoor spaces where social distancing is not possible.”
Brazil
In late November, Brazil made headlines for reinstating its mask mandate in certain environments, including at the airport and on airplanes.
Colombia
Masks are still required on public transportation, including at airports and on airplanes.
Hong Kong
Although Hong Kong finally dropped most entry restrictions after being completely closed to tourism for close to three years, the indoor mask mandate is unfortunately still in place for all indoor settings.
South Korea
Although South Korea dropped all travel restrictions in October, there's still an indoor mask mandate for all indoor settings. Anyone who doesn't comply risks being fined.
However, this may be lifted in January 2023.
Indonesia
Although Indonesia relaxed its strict mask regulations earlier this year, masks are still required on public transportation and in “closed spaces” around the country.
Cambodia
Masks are still required on public transportation, including at the airport and on airplanes.
Vietnam
Masks are still required on public transportation, including at the airport and on airplanes.
Austria
Although most of Austria has dropped its mask mandate, the city of Vienna still requires masks to be worn on public transportation and in pharmacies. And not just any mask will do: Vienna requires the use of a heavy-duty FFP2 mask.
Germany
Germany still requires masks to be worn on all public transportation throughout the country, including trains and buses.
Spain
Another European country still clinging to mask mandates is Spain. A mask mandate for public transportation is still in place through at least March 2023, and this includes airplanes.
Greece
In Greece, it's still required to wear a mask on public transportation (including ferries) and in pharmacies.
Egypt
Although Egypt reopened without any restrictions this summer, the country still has a strict indoor mask mandate in place.
Anyone who does not comply with the indoor mask mandate risks being fined or prosecuted.
Which Countries Do Not Have Mask Mandates?
Out of the 150+ countries that have dropped all entry restrictions, the majority of these countries no longer have any mask mandates in place and very few people continue to wear masks.
However, in certain countries, especially in Latin America and Asia, mask mandates and voluntary mask-wearing persist.
It's always a good idea to research a country independently before visiting in order to confirm the current mask requirements, if any apply.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Laurent
Friday 5th of May 2023
I live in Pattaya, Thailand. Masks are still mandatory at the immigration office. I was there yesterday, the 4th of Mai 2023. Without a mask no entry. It's insane.
Christy
Wednesday 8th of February 2023
Hong Kong still requires masks inside and outside. It’s ridiculous.
JK
Sunday 19th of February 2023
@Christy,
I have to agree. That's so absurd!!
Alan in CLT
Monday 23rd of January 2023
Germany does not require masks on public transportation. I was there in November and didn’t see anyone wearing one. They did propose reinstating the requirement (including on planes) until, as I recall, March 2023 but quickly back pedaled. If that info isn’t correct I wonder how accurate any of this is!
Lucia
Sunday 22nd of January 2023
No mask can prevent against virusses only hassmat-suits can.... but thanks to years of dumbing down and people rather dying than pick up a good book to read, people are nowadays too stupid to wipe their behind without "proper instructions". Ohhhh Pleassse tell us what to do... dear corrupt politicians and "too big to fall corrupt Big Pharma" Oh yeah tell us you of of little IQ's....At least most people's IQ (viral/nano-sized) would also be able to penetrate the masks. Yeah seriously.... stupid people!!!!
Kris
Friday 6th of January 2023
What is this article? "... which is unfortunately still in place for indoor settings." Unfortunately? Their country their rules. God forbid they're trying to stop spread of illness and being considerate to others on public transport. If you can't be bothered to simply put on a mask on public transport, I don't know what to say. Probably the type of tourists you hear about that go around disrespecting temples in asia.
Oh but "muh freedom to not wear a face diaper!" And one wonders why Americans had one of the highest covid death rates in the world? Mystery.
Jeremy
Tuesday 4th of July 2023
@Kris,
When all deaths are considered CONvid, then you have the highest death totals. Surprise!
I never wore a mask ever, and went about my normal life. I do not fear a virus with a 99% survival rate.
Mya
Wednesday 8th of March 2023
@Kris, exactly what I thought. There's nothing unfortunate about doing the bare minimum to protect the public. Many countries did this long before covid just as common decency. The US is gonna be a prime example of what not to do, since we not only have the highest cases and deaths, but we still are not through this pandemic. Selfish and careless
k
Tuesday 28th of February 2023
@WM, I guess you are one of the those, what’s it called again? Sovereign citizens? Lol. You do what you want matey!
JK
Sunday 19th of February 2023
@Kris,
Masks do nothing. It's so laughable there are people just like you out there.
WM
Saturday 11th of February 2023
@Kris, Masks do nothing, sadly you've been brainwashed. God put us on this earth to breath freely and use our immune system, which masks suppress. On top of that when I see people continuously touching their masks, the more you put your hands near your mouth the more chance you stand of getting sick.