Border traffic to be opened in a controlled and gradual manner from 14 May – guidelines on safe distances and hygiene still in force

In line with the Government’s hybrid strategy, Finland is now beginning the controlled dismantling of the restrictive measures put in place to mitigate the COVID-19 crisis. The restrictions and recommendations on border traffic will be gradually dismantled starting on 14 May at 00.00 until further notice.

Starting on 14 May, cross-border commuting for employment and commissions and other essential traffic will be permitted across the Schengen internal borders. Persons arriving from abroad to work in Finland must be prepared to prove their work-related grounds for entry in connection with border checks. These restrictions and those decided on earlier concerning external border traffic will remain in force until 14 June.

Every citizen of Finland always has the right to return to Finland, and everyone has the right to leave the country. Recreational travel abroad is not recommended for the time being. 

Written guidelines from the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) on the recommendations and regulations related to entering the country (see appendix) will be distributed to those arriving in the country. These guidelines will also be communicated through announcements, notices and signs at entry points.

It is recommended that persons arriving in the country self-isolate for a period of 14 days. During this period, unnecessary physical contacts should be avoided and movement outside the home should be restricted to essential travel for work or, for example, to go shopping. Anyone who experiences respiratory symptoms should contact healthcare services immediately. Further instructions on the 14-day period of self-isolation will be distributed upon arrival in the country.

International passenger flights will continue to arrive only at Helsinki, Turku and Mariehamn airports. 

In all transport, passengers must remember to avoid physical contacts, maintain a safe distance from other people and observe good hand and respiratory hygiene. When leaving the airport or harbour, using your own car or taking a taxi is recommended.

Ticket sales for maritime passenger traffic will be reopened. Tickets may be sold to anyone who has the right of entry. The conditions for entry will be verified at the port.

Inquiries:

Border Guard, tel. +358 50 456 2862 (media contacts). Public service info: www.raja.fi/coronavirus 
Research Professor Hannu Kiviranta, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, tel.  +358 29 524 6361