What Expats Should Know When Returning Home During COVID-19 Pandemic

Important Information for Expats Returning Home During COVID-19 Pandemic

You may be returning home during COVID- 19 because your job assignment is cut short or just because you want to be with your loved ones. The bad days are not over yet, so you must maintain the utmost caution during your return home. These are difficult times for everyone, so prepare yourself mentally and emotionally to face the harsh realities of life and the repercussions of COVID-19 on businesses and job markets.

Countries across the world have resorted to various rules and regulations to contain the dreaded virus. It’s okay to feel anxious seeing drastic changes when you arrive back to your home country. It is also important that you stay informed and know what to do to ensure that your return home is hassle-free.

Here are some important things you should know if you planning to return home during COVID-19:

Countries that are on Lockdown

To slow the spread of the virus, many countries have implemented various measures including travel bans, home quarantines, and school closures. National lockdown refers to the mass quarantine of citizens. Countries that are strictly following these procedures include India, China, Poland, Italy, France, Spain, Denmark, El Salvador, Australia, Canada and many more.

Lockdown and Its Impact on Travel

The pandemic and the resultant lockdowns across the world have impacted travel to a great extent. Flight delays and cancellations have become a common phenomenon. Borders are getting closed in various countries to discourage people from going on holiday.

Governments in many countries have advised residents to cease all non-essential travel plans for the next few months. For instance, UK travellers must the directions given by the local authorities which include going for a self-quarantine at home or hotel for 14 consecutive days. They would also be tested for COVID-19, and they may get hospitalized if the result is positive.

Different countries have taken diverse measures to contain the spread of the virus. In Thailand, residents returning from high-risk countries should have a health certificate that supports the fact that they are not infected by the virus. They also need to self-monitor for 14 days. Entry and transit of travelers were also banned in Singapore. It is also important you check the latest news before you make the next move because travel updates are constantly changing across nations. Many countries will test you when you arrive or ask you to quarantine for 14 days.

General Tips for Repatriation During this Pandemic:

• Be realistic in your approach even when you face situations related to repatriation during this COVID-19 pandemic. Try to control your emotions and things that are within your control. You don’t have to worry about things that are beyond your control.
• If you are returning home during this COVID-19 period, you may not get a chance to opt between a daytime and night-time flight. You also may not be able to choose your seats. So, don’t get too hassled if everything is not as per your expectations.
• If you have children, they may not get in-flight kids packs or extra snacks. These little things shouldn’t bother you much as they are not in your control. You can enjoy all these things once you land in your home country.
• Carry all the necessary things with you during your return journey. The long flight can be very tiring and boring, so carry your entertainment gadgets along with you.
• If possible, recharge your native country’s prepaid or pay as you go SIM card before you move out of your expat destination. You will need it most when you are in an extended quarantine after returning to your native country.

Final Tip When Returning Home During COVID-19

Buy health insurance to protect you during potential emergencies. A high-quality global health plan can cover COVID-19. Flying back home can be quite intimidating, and depending on your destination, the quarantine period can be stressful for some. Many airlines are taking a lot of steps and spending a lot to make sure your flight to and from home is safe – some studies have suggested that as long as you wear a mask, your risk during travel is not as high as you might think. For most expats, getting global healthcare coverage, you can cover some of your expenses should you get infected. It also gives you a safety net and peace of mind when returning home. To know about healthcare system in Denmark check out our healthcare region page.