With everything that is going on in the country and the world regarding the COVID-19 virus and all the news about the ‘lockdown, we thought it would be useful to gather together information from reliable sources such as government pages and main newspapers of the country to avoid the spread of ‘fake’ news and information. There also plenty of questions that cause doubts and disagreements on social media, so we will try to explain everything we know in this blog.
Let’s start with the rules that were applied under the State of Alarm:
- All the citizens are obligated to stay in their homes or accommodation (in the case of tourists) and are only allowed to go outside for essential needs such as: to buy food and essentials, go to pharmacies, go to health centres and hospitals, travel to work and back, to care for elderly people, children or people with disabilities, you are also allowed to go to the bank and any other activity that you can justify as essential.
- Commercial, cultural, sports and leisure establishments will remain closed. This also includes public parks and beaches.
- Public transport services are being reduced to 50%.
- Some airlines have already reduced their service to and from Spain and from Tuesday 17 March some airlines are cancelling all flights. In case you have booked a trip to or from Spain get in touch with your airline for more information but from what we know most offer changes for free.
- Dog owners can leave their homes but only for a short period of time.
Now let’s have a look at the most asked questions regarding these rules:
- Do I need to have my ID on me? – Yes, you do, and if required by the police you are obliged to present it.
- How I can prove my reason to be out? – You may have to prove the reason you are out, so it is advisable that you keep your receipts from the shops or banks.
- Do I need to be on my own when going to the supermarket? – Although nothing has been clarified yet, the security forces recommended people to go alone.
- Can I go and visit my elderly parents or grandparent? – Yes, caring for the elderly or people with disabilities allows you to leave your house to visit them and provide them with help.
- Can I go out for a run or a walk even if it’s in the countryside? – Unfortunately for activity lovers and fitness freaks, all of these activities are prohibited.
- Can I take my dog for a walk as normal? – You are only allowed to take the pet out for a short period of time and never have someone else with you.
- Can I go to the airport to pick up a relative? – Yes, you are allowed to travel to the airport to pick up a relative but it is recommended that they take a taxi and you must travel alone.
- Can I receive a fine for being out? – Yes, law enforcement is allowed to fine you if you cannot justify why are you outside your home. The amount of the fine will depend on the severity of the offence.
We will keep you informed with any new updates. If you have any other questions that you would like to be answered send us a message and we will try to clarify for you. Meanwhile, let’s be responsible and follow the rules. #STAYSAFE and #STAYHOME.