Travel banned from 7 countries: Pakistanis can return until December 5

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan - Pakistan has imposed travel bans on Hong Kong and six African countries due to the spread of a new coronavirus variant in Africa.

According to the National Command Operation Center (NCOC) statement, travel bans have been imposed on South Africa, Mozambique, Namibia, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and Botswana.

For the convenience of Pakistanis stranded in these countries, travel is allowed until December 5, while health and testing protocols will apply to the passengers.

The NCOC says all seven countries have been included in Category C.

It further said there would be an immediate ban on direct and indirect arrivals of passengers from these countries.

According to NCOC, Pakistanis traveling in an emergency must obtain a travel permit and show a vaccination certificate at the airport.

Passengers will have to show a negative PCR report 72 hours in advance. A rapid antigen test of the passenger will be done at the airport.