The Cayman Islands reported two (2) new positive cases of COVID-19 today, which were confirmed as a result of routine screening; both cases are classified as asymptomatic and patients remain in isolation. The total number of confirmed cases in the Cayman Islands is 207, with 204 fully recovered. At this time, despite a strong uptick in positive COVID-19 cases in the Caribbean region, the Cayman Islands retains its “COVID-free” designation.
The Cayman Islands Government announced its revised details surrounding the phased opening approach of the destination and the continuation of international tourism. On 1 October 2020, the Cayman Islands will begin its phased border reopening, only allowing Cayman Airways and British Airways (via London) repatriation flights as well as private charter flights. The destination will not be open to commercial airlift or nonessential travel on 1 October 2020.
All travelers arriving to the Cayman Islands must register via www.exploregov.ky/traveltime and will be subject to 14-day quarantine in preapproved residential and government facilities. After two-weeks of self-isolation, travelers will undergo an additional PCR test. To enforce these requirements, the Government will ramp up random physical tests for those quarantining at home and will provide electronic monitoring devices to aid in geofencing.
Beginning 17 September 2020, select travelers arriving to the Cayman Islands will take part in a trial program of the electronic monitoring devices. They will be required to wear the device, quarantine in Government-approved facilities for 14-days and submit an additional PCR test. The Government will utilize the key trial learnings in October as the destination welcomes back 800 repatriation travelers and those looking to live and work in the Cayman Islands for an extended period of time.
Requirements for inbound travelers arriving to the Cayman Islands on 1 October 2020 include:
- Pre-travel authorization via TravelTime
- Travelers must be Caymanian, permanent residents of the Cayman Islands, property owners or those looking to live and work in the Cayman Islands for an extended period of time
- Those opting to quarantine in a preapproved private residence must utilize electronic monitoring devices, otherwise travelers must reside in Government facilities for 14-days of self-quarantine
- Non-Caymanian travelers must obtain health insurance and cover any COVID-related costs
There will be no restrictions placed on outbound travelers and residents are encouraged to exercise caution when visiting Miami, Jamaica or Honduras via Cayman Airways airbridge flights.
In addition to revised procedures, the Government also announced that the tourism stipend program has been extended for three (3) additional months to assist displaced tourism workers. There is no need for previously approved recipients to reapply.
For official information on the Cayman Islands’ ongoing response to COVID-19, please visit: