Lockdown and Social Distancing measures are once again extended in certain cities, while the rest of the country is ordered to keep a safe mandatory distance

On October 26, Argentina’s lockdown was extended in certain cities while the rest of the country was ordered to keep a safe mandatory distance until November 8, 2020. The order came by way of Decree No. 814/2020, published in the Official Gazette, and establishes that:

• Under the lockdown measure (known locally as Social, Preventive and Mandatory Isolation or ASPO), people must remain in their homes and avoid going out unless they are essential workers or are otherwise exempt, in which case they must have a circulation permit. ASPO will continue in force in the Metropolitan Area of ​​Buenos Aires. 

• Under the social distancing measure (known locally as Social, Preventive and Mandatory Distance or DISPO), people can circulate within their city of residence, work, and carry out their activities as long as they stay 2 meters (approx. 6 feet) apart from each other and follow mandatory protocols. In DISPO zones, local Governors may order that individuals entering the province from other jurisdictions remain in isolation for up to 14 days, unless they are essential workers and traveling in their capacity as such. Under DISPO, social events are limited to no more than 10 people, events cannot be held in closed spaces, and all team sports are limited to 10 players. In addition, cinemas, theaters, clubs, and cultural centers are closed and tourism activities remain suspended.

• Public transportation: The only individuals authorized to use the public transportation system throughout the country are (i) essential workers, (ii) individuals undergoing medical treatment, (iii) the caregivers of individuals undergoing medical treatment, and (iv) staff and students attending in-person classes.

• Circulation ban: People who tested positive for COVID-19 and/or people who may be infected with COVID-19 will not be allowed to circulate throughout the country.

• Individuals exempted from going to work in-person: People over the age of 60, pregnant women, individuals in so-called “risk groups,” and essential caretakers of children or adolescents are exempt from having to go to work in-person. Similarly, employees over the age of 60, pregnant women, and individuals in so-called “risk groups” are exempt from going to work in-person and will receive a non-remunerative compensation equivalent to their usual salary, net of Social Security contributions.

• Social gatherings: Social gatherings of up to 10 people are authorized throughout the country, if they are held in public outdoor spaces and participants keep a 2-meter distance from each other, use facemasks, and follow applicable protocols.

• Borders: Despite the fact that the Decree extends the border closure, it enables the National Migration Office to authorize international entry when certain circumstances of need are duly accredited and to determine with respect to which countries this partial lift applies.