Greece Imposes Night Curfew from 9pm to 5am to Slow Covid-19

Greek Civil Protection Deputy Minister Nikos Hardalias.

The Greek government has announced a night curfew from 9 pm to 5 am, aiming to further limit movement in the country to curb the rise of coronavirus (Covid-19) cases.

It is reminded that Greece is currently in lockdown and movement is restricted with exceptions. Movement is allowed only by sending an SMS to a five-digit mobile phone service (or providing a handwritten document to authorities upon request).

The night curfew, coming into force on Friday, November 13, was announced as many unnecessary movements have been recorded, according to authorities.

“By limiting unnecessary movement, we are limiting the spread of the virus,” said Greek Civil Protection Deputy Minister Nikos Hardalias during an emergency televised briefing on Wednesday.

When movement is allowed during curfew

During the night curfew, movement (with identification) in Greece will be allowed by sending an SMS to the five-digit mobile phone service 13033 and only for the following reasons:

– Work (with type A employer certificate, without sending an SMS)
– Health (SMS – Option 1)
– Walk a pet close to permanent residence (SMS – Option 6)

Hardalias clarified that sending an SMS to exercise outdoors (SMS – Option 6) concerns people exercising solitary or strictly in groups of three.

The deputy minister also reiterated that movement for hunting or fishing is not allowed. Both activities are banned in Greece during the lockdown period.

Greek health authorities on Wednesday reported 2,752 new coronavirus cases (777 cases found in Thessaloniki and 635 in Attica), raising the total number to 63,321. The death toll in the country has reached 909.

It is reminded that wearing a mask is mandatory everywhere in public (indoors and outdoors). Press here to see all the rules that must be followed in Greece during lockdown.

The lockdown is expected to end on November 30.