What are the latest Covid restrictions in Catalonia

This article was last updated on November 9, 2020. For the most up-to-date measures in place in Catalonia, check this article. 

Rising coronavirus cases have forced Catalan authorities to adopt increasingly strict measures in an attempt to curb infections, with the restrictions announced on October 29 including a partial weekend lockdown and the closure of land borders with the rest of Spain. Measures for bars and restaurants were updated on November 9.

The only exceptions, if properly documented, will be for health emergencies, including going to the doctor or a pharmacy. The regulation permits people to commute to and from work or educational institutions, as well as to take care of dependent relatives.

Previous measures remain in place, such as the closure of bars and restaurants, the compulsory use of face masks, and the limitation of social gatherings to six people.

Measures in force from November 9

Bars and resturants. Bars and restaurants remain open only for takeaway and delivery. However, you may now collect food up until 10pm. You may be out later than 10pm if you are collecting food, but you must take the least time possible to return home and have your receipt with you. Deliveries continue to be available up until 11pm.

Measures in force from October 30

Partial weekend lockdown. From Friday at 6 am to Monday at 6 am, people are not allowed to leave the town or city they reside in. They can still leave home, but the government advises against doing so.

Closed borders. Catalonia’s borders with other Spanish regions will remain shut, with exceptions for health emergencies, commuting to and from work or school, and to take care of dependent relatives.

On October 31 and November 1, people will be allowed to move within their counties of residence for cemetery visits to mark All Saints’ Day.

Sports activities can be carried out in surrounding towns. 

Gyms and sports centers shut, excluding High-Performance Centers or venues hosting international or Spain-level competitions, which are closed to the public. All non-professional competitions have been postponed.

Stores. Shopping malls over 800 square meters will remain shut unless they reduce the area open to the public. Smaller stores have their capacity capped at 30%. Hair salons, pharmacies, and garden centers can open without restrictions. 

Religious ceremonies such as weddings or funerals have a 30% capacity limit.  

Remote work is strongly advised by Catalan authorities, which companies should implement unless they are unable to do so. 

Public transportation including buses, trains, and the subway will continue running as usual.

Theaters, cinemas, and music venues closed. Most in-person cultural activities have been suspended.

Museums, galleries, and archives can open at 30% capacity. Libraries can only provide loan services.

Amusement parks are closed.

Post-obligatory education, such as the pre-university ‘Batxillerat’ programs and vocational training, will operate remotely when possible, excluding exams and in-person activities. 

Leisure and after-school activities for children suspended, excluding activities organized by schools within their premises. Language schools will remain open.

Public playgrounds open until 8 pm.