Norway- Russia border might be closed until January 1, 2021

Norway’s government special law might prolong border closure with Russia until January 1, 2021, due to the Coronavirus situation.

Norwegian Ministry of Justice and Public Security introduced a suggestion for a temporary law to stop the further spread of the virus. The law, which is supposed to be kept in place until January 1 next year, allows the government to keep the borders closed for internationals who lack a residence or work permit in Norway.

Norway’ government also has announced that it has decided to prolong border closure for all internationals, until August 20, in a bid to stop the further spread of COVID-19, SchengenVisaInfo.com  reports.

As Norway and Russia agreed to impose strict entry and exit controls due to the deadly virus, there is nearly no traffic over the land border between the two countries. Exemptions from the border closure decision have been applied for diplomats, crew members on fishing vessels and truck-drivers.

Minister of Justice  Monica Mæland stressed in a statement that the government wants a gradual opening of the borders, but will follow the situation closely.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged all Norwegian citizens to avoid non-essential travel to other countries.

The relaxing of currently imposed measures depends on the Coronavirus pandemic situation domestically in Norway and neighbouring countries.

Norway’s first option to relax some of its preventive measures could be the reopening of borders to Nordic countries, like Sweden, Finland and Denmark. Regarding the issue, a decision will be announced by June 15. As for Norway, the border between Russia and Norway will likely be closed for a longer period.

Earlier this week, the Ministry of Justice and Public Security announced that Norway decided to prolong internal border controls for another 90 days, from May 16, as part of the country’s efforts to stop the further spread of the Coronavirus outbreak.