These Countries Still Have Mask Mandates Going Into 2023

Nov 13, 2023

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Last Updated 5 months ago

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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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."

In late November, Brazil made headlines for reinstating its mask mandate in certain environments, including at the airport and on airplanes.

Masks are still required on public transportation, including at airports and on airplanes.

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.

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.

Although Indonesia relaxed its strict mask regulations earlier this year, masks are still required on public transportation and in "closed spaces" around the country.

Masks are still required on public transportation, including at the airport and on airplanes.

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 still requires masks to be worn on all public transportation throughout the country, including trains and buses.

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.

In Greece, it's still required to wear a mask on public transportation (including ferries) and in pharmacies.

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.

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