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Omicron: What We Know

The latest variant of COVID-19, Omicron, is now circulating in up to 40 countries globally. As governments take carefully crafted measures to keep public health concerns at bay while also keeping global business concerns top of mind, many companies are back in a wait-and-see mode as we wind down 2021 and prepare for 2022.

Travel Restrictions

As Omicron was first discovered and publicized, travel bans were immediately put in place with more than 30 countries banning travel to eight southern African destinations.

While travel restrictions may delay transmission, most studies have proven them ineffective from completely stopping the virus from infiltrating a country. Currently, governments around the world are now reviewing the bans; however, as of December 14, none have been lifted. With certain restrictions in place, the effects will no doubt be felt in the relocation and moving industry in terms of possible delays and the need for verifying all international travel on a continual basis, as regulations are changing at a rapid rate.

Additionally, further vaccine requirements and negative testing protocols have been introduced in the U.S. and abroad. With holiday travel season upon us, these measures will likely be key in containing large outbreaks of Omicron across the world. Masking and social distancing will also continue to be of the utmost importance to stay healthy while travelling.

Summary

As the Omicron variant marches across the globe affecting both travel and entry requirements, Altair Global’s team is vigilantly monitoring the situation. Please reach out to your Client Services or Business Development representative.

For more detailed information on the current restrictions on a country-by-country basis, please visit the links on our COVID-19 Resources page.

Altair Global (‘Altair’) has provided this information as a service and convenience for your information only. It is not intended to replace your own legal or financial guidance and/or assistance and you are encouraged to seek the advice of your own tax and legal advisor. Further, the information contained herein is to our knowledge accurate to the extent of the data available to Altair as of the date identified. Altair does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of the contents hereof and is under no obligation to update the material contained herein.

Published On: December 16, 2021

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