Due to new outbreaks of the Ebola virus, a number of countries around the world have tightened border controls and introduced temporary entry restrictions. Find out which countries have changed border crossing rules, who the new requirements apply to, and how to prepare for international travel in 2026

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In June 2026, a number of countries announced temporary restrictions on international travel due to the risk of the spread of the Ebola virus. The new rules affected both tourists and foreigners planning business trips, studies or moving abroad.

Although the World Health Organization does not yet recommend a complete cessation of international traffic, individual countries have decided to independently strengthen border controls, quarantine measures and entry requirements for persons who have visited high-risk regions.

Experts note that such measures are temporary in nature and are aimed at curbing the spread of a dangerous infection, which remains one of the most serious viral diseases in the world.

Traveling and moving abroad are always associated with certain risks, especially when it comes to unforeseen medical situations. High-quality health insurance helps to get the necessary assistance in case of illness or accident and protects against significant medical costs. This is especially relevant during the period of increased sanitary control and changes in the rules of international travel. Take out an insurance policy in advance and travel the world with confidence.

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Why are countries tightening control?

The reason for the new restrictions was the cases of Ebola in some countries of Central and East Africa, primarily in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and South Sudan.

In response, the governments of many countries began to introduce additional security measures:

- Restrictions or bans on entry for certain categories of travelers;

- Mandatory quarantine upon arrival;

- Enhanced medical control at airports;

- Suspension of the issuance of certain types of visas;

- Temporary suspension of transport connections with certain regions.

For international travel, this means checking your destination country’s current requirements carefully before purchasing your tickets.

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Bahrain temporarily restricts entry

The Bahraini government has banned entry to people of any nationality who have arrived directly from South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo or Uganda until June 19, 2026.

The restrictions also apply to travelers who have visited the countries in the last 30 days before arrival. The only exception is Bahraini citizens, who can return home but must undergo quarantine procedures.

Cheap flights can hide additional transfer costs and hours of travel to the city. Read about the airports that are furthest from the declared destinations here.

Canada introduces strict immigration measures

Canada’s decisions were among the strictest.

Effective May 27, 2026, the country has suspended a number of immigration documents for individuals associated with high-risk regions for 90 days. These include already issued temporary visas, electronic travel authorizations (eTAs), and certain permanent residence documents.

In addition, until the end of August 2026, all travelers who have been to the affected areas in the previous 21 days and do not have symptoms of the disease must undergo mandatory quarantine.

If symptoms appear, the person may be referred to a medical facility for further examination and isolation.

At the same time, restrictions do not apply to Canadian citizens and permanent residents returning home, although they are also required to comply with sanitary requirements.

The summer tourist season in Europe begins against the backdrop of large-scale strikes by aviation workers. Read the link to find out where disruptions are expected and how passengers can prepare for their trip.

Jordan tightens rules for arrivals from Central Africa

Jordan has restricted entry for travelers arriving directly from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda until June 19, 2026.

Jordanian citizens can return home, but must undergo a 21-day quarantine upon arrival. This can be done in designated facilities or at home under the supervision of health authorities.

Rwanda imposes mandatory quarantine

Rwandan authorities have suspended entry for foreigners who have visited or transited through the Democratic Republic of Congo in the past 30 days.

Rwandan citizens and permanent residents are exempt, but they must undergo mandatory quarantine upon return.

Uganda restricts transport links

Uganda has taken additional measures to control the situation at its border with the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The country has temporarily suspended air travel between states, and has also restricted cross-border bus, ferry and other public transport.

At the same time, health checks at border checkpoints have been tightened, and travel between countries is only allowed through designated official crossings and if there is a justified need.

UAE suspends issuing new visas

From June 6, 2026, the United Arab Emirates has suspended issuing new visas for citizens of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and South Sudan.

In addition, entry is restricted for persons arriving from these countries, even via transit routes.

Only those travelers who have been outside the specified countries for at least 21 days prior to arrival will be able to enter the UAE.

What can travelers expect in the near future?

Enhanced health checks are already in place at many international airports in the Middle East and Africa. Additional medical controls are also being implemented at land border crossings.

Therefore, passengers should allow extra time for border formalities and be prepared for:

- temperature screening;

- medical interviews;

- travel route checks;

- self-isolation or quarantine requirements;

- possible changes in flight schedules.

International mobility experts recommend regularly checking entry regulations before traveling, as restrictions may change depending on the epidemiological situation.

The situation surrounding the Ebola outbreaks in 2026 demonstrates how quickly international travel regulations can change. While most restrictions are currently spot-on and apply to individual countries and routes, travelers should closely monitor updates and plan their trips in advance.

Particular attention should be paid to quarantine requirements, transit through third countries, and the availability of health insurance, which can be an important protection in case of unforeseen circumstances abroad.

New restrictions, quarantine requirements, and enhanced medical checks once again remind us how important it is to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances while traveling. In many countries around the world, medical care for foreigners can cost thousands of dollars, and emergency hospitalization without an insurance policy often becomes a serious financial challenge. 

Health insurance provides access to necessary care, covers a significant part of the costs of treatment, and allows you to receive support even in difficult situations abroad. This is especially important for expats, students, digital nomads, and anyone traveling for a long period. Having a policy gives you confidence that in the event of force majeure, you will not be left alone with the problem.

Get health insurance before your trip and travel the world with the maximum level of protection!

Reminder! International rankings of healthcare systems take into account dozens of indicators - from life expectancy to the cost of insurance and the availability of medical technologies. The positions of countries in different rankings vary, and the prices of treatment and conditions for foreigners can significantly influence the choice of destination. We have already told about the best countries for treatment in 2026, the cost of medical services and the possibilities of obtaining residency.

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