HONDURAS: APPROVED REGULATIONS

  • PRESIDENTIAL HOUSE – REPUBLIC OF HONDURAS NATIONAL RISK MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (SINAGER)
  • MINISTRY OF HEALTH
  • EXECUTIVE DECREES
  • LEGISLATIVE DECREES
  • IMMIGRATION NATIONAL INSTITUTE
  • NATIONAL BANK AND INSURANCE COMMISSION (CNBS)
  • JUDICIAL POWER OF HONDURAS
  • MINISTRY OF GOVERNMENT AND JUSTICE 
  • SECRETARY OF STATE IN THE GOVERNMENT AND JUSTICE OFFICES
  • SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
  • HONDURAS NATIONAL POLICE
  • RENT MANAGEMENT SERVICE (SAR)
  • HONDURAN INSTITUTE OF GROUND TRANSPORTATION (IHTT)
  • CUSTOMS
  • CIVIL AERONAUTICS 
  • MINISTRY OF FINANCE
  • MINISTRY OF LABOR AND SOCIAL SECURITY
  • HONDURAN BANK FOR PRODUCTION AND HOUSING (BANHPROVI)
  • MINISTRY Oof NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT 
  • SANITARY REGULATION AGENCY
  • NATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATION COMMISSION (CONATEL)
  • NATIONAL HEALTH AND FOOD SAFETY SERVICE
  • PROPERTY INSTITUTE (IP)
  • MINISTRY OF EDUCATION
  • HONDURAN COUNCIL OF PRIVATE ENTERPRISE (COHEP)
  • CORTÉS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRIES (CCIC)
  • TEGUCIGALPA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRIES (CCIT)
  • MUNICIPAL MAYOR OF THE CENTRAL DISTRICT
  • NATIONAL REGISTRY OF PERSONS  

 

 

PRESIDENTIAL HOUSE – REPUBLIC OF HONDURAS NATIONAL RISK MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (SINAGER)

Official Government Statement prohibits public officers from leaving the country. (March 11, 2020)

  • Addressed to: Secretaries of State, Holders of office, Officers of the Executive Branch, and any member of the Chief Presidential Cabinet, where such officials, because of COVID-19, are prohibited from traveling outside the country, except for permits granted by the Cabinet.

Honduran Government suspends work at educational centers and cancels public events. (March 12, 2020). 

  • The Government of the Republic determined that labor must be suspended at all Educational Institutions, as well as all public events and shows. Prohibition of entry into the country by persons from various countries declared at risk. Exceptions apply to nationals and others. The above measures are valid for fourteen (14) days. More information at this link

The Honduran Government imposes and communicates new measures. (March 14, 2020)

  • These measures are effective from March 14 – 28, 2020 and prohibit gatherings of more than 50 people. People over 60 years of age are required to work from home and all employers are required to apply strict hygiene and safety protocols in workplaces at a national level to prevent COVID19.  Recommendations are issued. All measures previously mentioned shall be enforced for fourteen days as of March 14, 2020. More information at this link.

The State of Honduras specifies business closing measures. (March 15, 2020)

  • SINAGER issues regulations on certain specifications regarding business and business closure measures. A curfew is decreed until further notice with exceptions related to basic needs. More information at this link.

New measures for the restriction of some constitutional guarantees are issued in National Conference (March 16, 2020)

  • Through a national conference, new measures are enacted to contain the progress of COVID-19. Some restrictions of constitutional guarantees were approved by Decree PCM 21-2020 for seven (7) days from the publication of the decree until Monday, March 23, 2020. Certain activities declared of national need are allowed. More information at this link.

Absolute curfew declared in fast-growing cities. (March 16, 2020)

  • A statement was issued to inform that exceptions were eliminated, and an ABSOLUTE CURFEW is declared, meaning the prohibition of entrances and exits of three cities (La Ceiba, San Pedro Sula, and Central District), as well as any internal circulation from 10:00 pm on March 16, 2020, and until further notice. More information at this link.

Message from the President of the Republic of Honduras on economic measures (March 17, 2020)

  • The President of the Republic declared that BANHPROVI will freeze loan repayment quotas for three months; debts will be reinstated without damaging credit records. Similarly, BANHPROVI will make available to banks 200 million lempiras to reactivate the construction industry; there will also be credit for small and medium-sized enterprises and agriculture. More information at this link.

Government of the Republic authorizes bank institutions, cooperatives and all finance companies offering access to credits, to open their facilities under certain conditions. (March 24, 2020)

  • Banks, cooperatives and finance companies in coordination with the Central Bank of Honduras (BCH) will be able to attend to the public on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 09:00 a.m. until  04:00 p.m., in all its agencies and branches, except for shopping centers (malls) from Wednesday, March 25. There are several conditions. More information at this link.

The Government of the republic allows the temporary entry of Hondurans (March 26, 2020)

  • Hondurans outside the national territory may enter through the Toncontin and Ramón Villeda Morales airports as of March 29, 2020. They must comply with the measures established in the health protocols issued by the Honduran State. Failure to comply with such measures could have legal repercussions.

SINAGER communicates to citizens abroad and foreigners within the national territory, the measures for entering and leaving the country. (May 22, 2020)

  • As of May 22, 2020, all procedures and coordination for the authorization of arrival flights of Hondurans or departures of foreigners from the national territory, will be done through diplomatic missions, Honduran consular representations or through direct communication with the Ministry of Foreign Relations and International Cooperation.
  • Any person entering the country must complete the 14-day isolation in the Temporary Isolation Centers determined by the Government of the Republic.

The public is informed of the reopening of some public institutions (June 7, 2020)

  • It is reported that as of June 8, 2020, several public institutions are authorized to reopen, including the National Commission of Banks and Insurance, CONATEL, Ministry of Finance, Central Bank, ARSA, Secretary of Economic Development, etc.
  • Only 20% of the employees of each institution are to report to work in person. This 20% may not include personnel over 60 years of age or those who have a chronic illness. More information at this link.

Segmentation of population of region 3 has no longer effect (June 29, 2020)

SINAGER communicates that the determination to segment the population for vehicle circulation according to the last digit of their license plate is without value and effect in region

The Honduran Government through the Council of Secretaries of State communicates (July 28, 2020)

– The reopening of commerce and companies, in general, is authorized, starting on Wednesday, July 29, 2020, complying with and using the biosafety protocols approved by the Secretary of Labor and Social Security. The reopening of shops was divided based on the departmental region and the workforce, remaining as follows:

  • Region 3 will reincorporate 20% of the employees.
  • Region 2 will reincorporate 40% of the employees.
  • Region 1 will reincorporate 60% of the employees.
  • The agri-food chain is open throughout the country, regardless of the region, including the benefits of coffee, tobacco, factories that export agricultural products.
  • The reopening hours are maintained from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm from Monday to Friday.
  • Large and medium-sized companies should implement triage as established in biosafety protocols.
  • Public transport will start on Monday, August 3, conducting pilot tests for its orderly reopening.
  • Bars, discos, cinemas, gyms, theaters, sporting events, convention centers, airports, educational centers, restaurant dining rooms, and home meetings of more than 10 people are exempt from economic reopening.
  • Companies or organizations that need to re-open are required to request a pass through the portal www.serviciospolicial.gob.hn
  • The circulation of the population is authorized according to the last digit of the identity card, passport, or residence card.

Some public institutions are authorized to open to the public (August 1, 2020)

  • Public institutions will have, in their presence mode, approximately 33% of the total staff, except for the institutions in the front line of the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic, such as Security, Medical Services, and Public and Emergency Services.
  • The public will be attended to according to the circulation day contained in the calendar approved by the government
  • The institutions authorized to operate as of August 3 are: 911 Honduras; Honduran Customs Administration; Health Regulatory Agency; Honduran Civil Aeronautics Agency; Central Bank of Honduras; Honduran Bank for Production and Housing; Honduras Presidential House; National Telecommunications Commission; National Committee for Prevention Against Torture CONAPREV; Permanent Contingency Committee; National Supervisory Council of Cooperatives CONSUCOOP; Honduras National Mail; Merchant Marine Directorate; National Graphic Arts Company; National Electric Power Company; National Telecommunications Company Hondutel; National Port Company; Property Institute; Institute of Teacher Training; Institute of Military Welfare; Institute of Social Security for Employees of the National University; Autonomous of Honduras; Honduran Institute of Agricultural Marketing; National Institute of Retirement and Pensions for Employees and Officials of the Executive Power; Migration’s National Institute; Attorney General’s Office; Solidarity Credit Program; Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock; Secretary of General Government Coordination; Ministry of National Defense; Secretariat for Human Rights; Ministry of Development and Social Inclusion; Economic Development Secretariat; Education Ministry; Ministry of Energy; Finance Ministry; Ministry of Natural Resources & Environment; Ministry of Foreign Relations and International Cooperation; Ministry of Health; Ministry of Security; Autonomous Service of Aqueducts and Sewers; National Service for Agri-Food Health and Safety; National Supplier of Basic Products Banasupro.

The opening of various state institutions is determined in compliance with the opening process of Phase 1 of the Economic Sector (August 9, 2020)

  • The CNBS, the Electric Energy Regulatory Commission, the DINAF, the Forest Conservation Institute, the RNP, the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Community Development, Water and Sanitation, and the SAR must provide personal services to the public.Click here for more information.

 

MINISTRY OF HEALTH

Confirmation of firsts official cases of COVID19 in Honduras (March 10, 2020)

  • The Ministry of Health issued a statement confirming the first two cases of coronavirus in Honduras and details the measures taken, as well as recommendations to be followed. More information at this link.

The Ministry of Health explains preventive and precautionary measures. (March 20, 2020)

  • The Ministry of Health, on the national network, urges the population to continue with the instructions generated by the Government of the Republic and to take all preventive and precautionary measures. The Ministry also announced that, at the moment, the same number of patients with coronavirus is maintained. More information at this link.

 

EXECUTIVE DECREES

A State of Emergency is established in the national territory through EXECUTIVE DECREE NUMBER PCM-005-2020. (February 10, 2020)

  • The Executive Branch declared a State of Sanitary Emergency throughout the national territory to continue and strengthen prevention and control actions and ensure primary treatment for people suffering from dengue, as well as to strengthen the actions of surveillance, prevention, and control and gain public attention before the probable occurrence of infection by COVID-19 (coronavirus).
  • Decreto Ejecutivo Número PCM-005-2020

Measures are taken to avoid crowding of people at public shows, public roads, schools, churches, etc. through EXECUTIVE DECREE NUMBER PCM-018-2020 (March 13, 2020)

– For 14 days from March 13, 2020:

Restriction of constitutional guarantees such as free movement, freedom of association and freedom of speech, etc. and the exceptions to the prohibition of movement at the national level through EXECUTIVE DECREE NUMBER PCM-021-2020 (March 16, 2020)

  • It provides restrictions on the constitutional guarantees and its prohibitions and exceptions for certain public officers and some specific issues related to trade and industry.
  • It is established that the Ministry of Economic Development can authorize, the operation of a company or otherwise agree on the mechanism for the suspension of operations such as the case of the maquila and manufacturing sector.
  • Decreto Ejecutivo Número PCM-021-2020

The term of suspension of constitutional guarantees is extended for a week from March 21, 2020 (March 21, 2020)

  • The term of suspension of constitutional guarantees is extended until March 28, 2020.  In order to coordinate the humanitarian transportation of people in Honduras for transfer outside the country, as well as the entry of Hondurans into the national territory, the following Ministries will lend their efforts: Foreign Relations and International Cooperation, Health, the National Institute of Immigration, and Civil Aeronautics. Decreto Ejecutivo PCM-022-2020

A state of emergency is established throughout the national territory until December 31, 2020 (March 21, 2020)

  • PCM 005-2020 is amended establishing a state of emergency until December 31, 2020. Also, the Ministries of Foreign Relations and International Cooperation, and Finance and Health, are instructed to manage the collection of resources to cover all or part of the current emergency when addressing International Cooperation Agencies and Friendly Governments. Decreto Ejecutivo PCM-23-2020

The measures for fundamental rights restriction are extended for 7 days from April 5, 2020 (April 4, 2020)

  • An Absolute Curfew is declared for the Department of Cortés and El Progreso, Yoro from April 6 to April 12, 2020, with some exceptions.
  • Taking photographs, or recording images, interviews or personal data of people infected with COVID-19 or their families and the disclosure of such in the mass media or other public communications is prohibited to safeguard human dignity.
  • Decreto Ejecutivo PCM 28-2020

Support for food-producing and food agribusiness is declared a national priority and measures are decreed to ensure sovereignty and national security. (April 9, 2020)

  • Public, national and ejidal lands are made available for food production to producers.
  • A single permit is approved for the operation of agricultural production projects, food collection and distribution centers, and economic agents in the food supply chain.
  • The Honduran Institute of Land Transportation is ordered to authorize all pending resolutions and permits within 10 business days from April 9, 2020.
  • The obstruction of public roads that prevent the passage of workers to and from food agribusiness or the food supply chain is prohibited.
  • PCM-030-2020

Measures restricting fundamental rights are extended with certain exceptions. (April 18, 2020)

  • The fundamental rights restriction measures are extended for an additional 7 days from April 19, 2020.
  • Special measures are ratified for the departments of Colón, Cortés and the municipality of El Progreso, Yoro.
  • Exclusions are established to the restrictions for employees of the judiciary, the public prosecutor’s office authorized by the attorney general, the Commission for the defense and promotion of competition, and the National Committee for the Prevention of Torture, Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment.

PCM decree 41-2020 approves reform to articles 4, 5 numeral 1 and 24 of PCM Executive Decree 30-2020 (May 10, 2020)

  • A registry of ejidal, fiscal and national lands will be created to make them available to the Secretary of State in the Offices of Agriculture and Livestock to ensure the effective use of the land and to make them available to national producers for food production.
  • An amount of L. 200,000,000.00 in national indebtedness is assigned to the Alliance for Dry Corridor project to continue with the reactivation of the agri-food sector.
  • The Central Bank of Honduras is directed to structure an efficient mechanism for allocating the resources derived from the legal reserve to the institutions of the national banking and financial system that directly link an applicant for new credits or refinancing of existing credits.

Measures to promote the reduction and prevention of diseases in Honduras are proposed through PCM Decree 42-2020 (May 10, 2020)

  • The measures restricting fundamental rights are extended for an additional 7 days, effective as of May 10, 2020, as are the special provisions for the municipalities in the department of Colón, Cortés, the municipality of El Progreso Yoro, and the Vegas, Santa Barbara. It is reiterated that public institutions may use non-working days and hours for telework or work by electronic means.
  • SINAGER is authorized to agree on measures of social distancing and intelligent opening of the economy in Honduras. Industries that comply with governmental biosafety protocols are empowered to carry out their activities.
  • Government institutions whose performance is imperative for the intelligent reactivation process of the economy are empowered to attend to and resolve in person the requests of citizens, observing the strictest biosecurity measures recommended by the Ministry of Health.

The Government through PCM decree 43-2020 creates the Inter-institutional Commission (May 10, 2020)

  • Workers and companies authorized to operate are obliged to apply and comply with Government-approved biosecurity protocols. Likewise, companies should require their customers to use a mask, alcohol-based gel, social distancing, and any other measure that prevents the spread of COVID-19.
  • An Inter-institutional Commission is created to verify and guarantee compliance with the corresponding biosafety protocols and to order the immediate closure for the period of the national health emergency of any company that fails to comply.

Executive Decree Number PCM 061-2020 creates the operation “FUERZA HONDURAS” (July 12, 2020) Click here for more information.

  • The operation “Fuerza Honduras” is created to support health services in the country’s municipalities, to develop preventive actions, and provide care to the population affected by the global crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • The operation will be carried out through “COVID-19 Emergency Transfers” for an amount of TWO HUNDRED FIFTY MILLION LEMPIRAS (L.250,000,000.00), which is exclusively destined for expenses to combat and prevent COVID-19.

Executive Decree Number PCM 063-2020 extends measures restricting fundamental rights. (July 12, 2020) Click here for more information.

  • The fundamental rights restriction measures are extended for an additional 7 days from July 13 to July 19, 2020.
  • PHASE 1 of the National Plan for Gradual and Progressive Intelligent Reopening of the Economy and Social Sectors of Honduras is suspended in the municipalities of the Central District of the department of Francisco Morazán, San Pedro Sula, department of Cortés, as well as the departments of Comayagua, Santa Bárbara, Lempira, Colón, Olancho, Choluteca and Atlántida due to the high levels of sources of infection in the aforementioned municipalities and departments.
  • The specific exceptions related to Commerce and Industry for the aforementioned municipalities and departments established in article 4 of Executive Decree Number PCM-021-2020 are maintained.

 

LEGISLATIVE DECREES

Measures for tax relief are contemplated through DECREE NO.29-2020 for the acquisition of certain products. (March 12, 2020)

  • Exemption from the payment of the sales tax in the local purchase and import of raw materials, supplies, packaging material and containers necessary for the manufacture of sanitizing products; purchase of masks and hand gel produced locally. The State and Civil Associations are exempt from filing tax solvency in the process of all customs franchises and exemptions from purchases and donations in the field of humanitarian aid. Free zones are authorized to sell or donate medical equipment.
  • Decreto no.29-2020

The Special Law on Economic Acceleration and Social Protection against the Effects of Coronavirus COVID19 is approved through Decree No. 31-2020. (March 13, 2020)

  • A budget reallocation is established to bear the health expenses of the IHSS.
  • BANHPROVI is authorized to take measures that guarantee to finance the facilitation of access to the productive sectors and to promote risk management and/or refinancing and adjustment of debts to individuals or legal entities in the financial system belonging to them. In turn, the implementation of telework in public and private institutions is authorized.
  • Decreto no. 31-2020

Measures adopted through PCM 21-2020, PCM 22-2020 and PCM 26-2020 are ratified (April 3, 2020)

  • The National Congress ratifies the measures adopted in PCM 21-2020, PCM 22-2020 and PCM 26-2020 contained in the national restriction of the constitutional guarantees established in articles 69, 78, 81, 84, 99 and 103 of the Constitution of the Republic.

Decree 33-2020 creates the Law to assist the productive sector and workers in response to the effects of the COVID pandemic (April 3, 2020)

  • In the face of the COVID pandemic, Decree 33-2020 creates the Law on Aid to the Productive Sector and Workers which adopts tax relief measures for companies such as the extension of the term for the presentation of a statement of Income Tax, Solidarity Contribution and Net Assets, Contribution of the Social Sector of the Economy, Specific Tax of Single Income on Leasing or Rental of homes or Apartment Buildings, Special Tax on the Operational Surplus of Private Universities and Learning Institutions such as Preschool, Primary and Middle Schools, and the Social Contribution of the Cooperative Sector. An 8.5% discount is established for those taxpayers who pay their corresponding Income Tax returns before April 30.
  • The installments of the payments on account must be calculated at 75% of the amount of the Income Tax determined for the fiscal period 2019 and will be payable on the last day of August, October and December
  • The process of suspension of employment contracts and the obligation to pay a solidarity contribution to the worker during the period of suspension of contracts are established.
  • An additional 10% incentive is deductible as a payroll expense for companies that do not dismiss or suspend workers during the period from March to December 2020.
  • Local purchase or import of raw materials, machinery, supplies, equipment, spare parts, accessories and packaging material necessary for the manufacture of medical supplies or other products necessary to combat the epidemic are exempt from the payment of Sales Tax and import duties
  • More information at this link.

The Law to Aid the Productive Sector and Workers due to the Effects of the Pandemic Provoked by COVID-19 is amended (May 4, 2020)

  • Tourism Sector workers who are not affiliated with the RAP must obtain solidarity contributions from their employers and the State of Honduras. If necessary, they may seek financing from the IHSS and INFOP.
  • A period of suspension of employment contracts up to 180 days is authorized for workers in the tourism sector.
  • The companies authorized to work must notify the Secretary of Labor, and they must restore the rights of employment contracts to their workers.
  • Companies in the tourism sector can separate restaurants and hotel areas.
  • All solidarity contributions are deductible from Income Tax. Neither the IHSS nor INFOP will make surcharges to employers’ contributions during the National Emergency period.

Executive Decrees PCM 28-2020, PCM 31-2020, PCM 33-2020, PCM 36-2020 are ratified (May 4, 2020)

  • The National Congress ratifies Executive Decrees CM 28-2020, PCM 31-2020, PCM 33-2020, PCM 36-2020 approved in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Measures to regulate imports and for the use of electronic signatures are adopted. (May 4, 2020)

  • Sales tax, customs duties, and other import taxes are exempt from payment on the local purchase and import of supplies, medical equipment, raw materials, machinery, supplies, equipment, spare parts, accessories, and packaging materials necessary for the manufacture of medical supplies, antiseptics, and disinfectants.
  • Persons who benefit from the tax measures approved in this section are prohibited from buying products outside the country if they exist in Honduras and will not enjoy the tax benefits stated for export purposes. The measures apply only to products consumed in the national territory.
  • The CNBS authorizes the institutions it supervises to comply with transactions to which they are allowed to proceed with their clients, together with the rights and obligations that arise from them electronically.

The Municipal Government of the Central District (AMDC) is authorized to contract loans (May 4, 2020)

  • AMDC is authorized to obtain resources of L. 2,000,000,000.00 to finance projects for road infrastructure, urban improvement, urban mobility, vehicular and pedestrian maintenance of the city, water and sanitation, and related works that contribute to the generation of direct mass labor and support for this industry.
  • AMDC is authorized to issue Municipal Bonds or contract loans for L. 3,000,000,000.00 to leverage the operation of the Municipal Unit for Drinking Water and Sanitation in the Central District.

Through the PCM 45-2020, gradual restrictions of constitutional guarantees are established at the national level (May 17, 2020)

  • Restrictions of constitutional guarantees contemplated in articles 69, 78, 81, 84, 99, and 103 of the Constitution of the Republic are adopted from May 18 to 24, 2020.
  • Exceptions to restrictions are established for the private sector, such as hospitals, health care centers, medical laboratories, pharmacies, production chains, industrialization, transportation, food distribution and marketing, gas stations, financial institutions, etc.

Law on the Compulsory Use of Masks and Application of Biosafety Protocols is enacted through legislative decree 58-2020 (May 23, 2020)

  • The Law on the Compulsory Use of Masks and Application of Biosafety Protocols is enacted, establishing the obligation to use masks for the population when they attend or stay in public places, or private places with more than 5 people, when traveling in public transport or using of elevators, as well as in those places where they carry out their tasks.
  • It also establishes the obligation for companies to implement biosafety protocols authorized by the government of the republic to prevent the spread of the pandemic.
  • Those who do not abide by the measures adopted may be subject to sanctions.
  • More information at this link.

Mechanisms to collect fingerprints from labor personnel (June 27, 2020)Click here for more information.

  • Temporary Law is enacted prohibiting the use of Manual and Electronic Mechanisms to collect fingerprints from labor personnel in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
  • As a compulsory biosecurity measure, with a preventive and mandatory nature, all public and private facilities are prohibited from conducting attendance or schedule control of their employees through manual and electronic fingerprint identification mechanisms or any other mechanism that allows the contagion of COVID-19.
  • This Law would be subject to the duration of the National Sanitary Emergency decreed to prevent COVID-19.

Legislative Decree Number 85-2020 establishing facilities for the payment of Municipal Taxes (July 25, 2020)

  • The municipalities of the country are authorized to grant a one-time benefit of a ten percent (10%) discount for the prompt payment of the tax and fees on real estate for the year 2020, to taxpayers who make their advance and full payment no later than August 31 of this year 2020.
  • A further ten percent (10%) discount may be granted for the payment of taxes and fees on real estate for the year 2020, with the prior approval of the Municipal Corporation, not to the specific case but rather of a general nature, which may be up to ten percent (10%) or a fraction less than that ten percent (10%) and that the benefit of that additional does not apply to real estate appraised at more than TWENTY MILLION LEMPIRAS (L.20,000,000.00) in each Municipal Corporation.
  • Taxpayers who confirm the payment of real estate taxes for the year 2020 after August 31, 2020, may defer their payment in four monthly installments, without fines, surcharges, or interest.

 

IMMIGRATION NATIONAL INSTITUTE

The Immigration National Institute issues a statement encouraging the population to avoid unnecessary travel (March 11, 2020)

  • A statement was issued to encourage all the Honduran population to refrain from unnecessary travel to countries reporting COVID19 incidence, such as China, Iran, Italy, Spain, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, among others.  In the case of persons returning from any of those countries, a 14-day quarantine is decreed. More information at this link.

The Immigration National Institute confirms that immigration mobility is restricted (March 21, 2020)

  • Ground immigration control points continue to operate to enter the country of Hondurans, residents, and diplomats; Exit from Honduran territory of foreigners who have the entry permit from the country they intend to enter. The Air Immigration Control points are kept closed for commercial flights. The departure of individuals via this route requires an exit authorization on private flights. No foreign person may enter the national territory. More information at this link.

 The National Institute of Migration (INM) communicates Important Information regarding Immigration Services (July 18, 2020).

  • As of Monday, July 20, 2020, for the coordination of the attention of the immigration services offered by the INM through the General Secretariat and the Management of Foreign Affairs and Passports in Tegucigalpa, the call center should be contacted at. 2232-7800 where the procedure to follow will be indicated and a date and time established for later service from the Institute.
  •  The INM enabled the online service to process Permanent Special Permits for Indefinite Stays,  Residency, and extended visits by foreigners.

Entrance and Exit from the national territory are still regulated (July 31, 2020)

  • The National Institute of Immigration communicates that the borders of Honduras continue to be closed for the entry of foreigners, except for residents, diplomatic service, and cargo carriers.
  • Hondurans DO NOT require a waiver to board authorized humanitarian flights.
  • Citizens traveling by land must do so in private vehicles according to the vehicular circulation day and must comply with the immigration provisions of the destination country.

 

NATIONAL BANK AND INSURANCE COMMISSION (CNBS)

CNBS issues a statement addressed to the insurance institutions and the financial system (March 16, 2020)

  • The CNBS has called on the supervised institutions to abide by and cooperate with the measures of the State of Honduras to protect people’s lives under COVID19, and also to define and make available to financial users channels to be able to provide products and financial services. Insurers are asked to establish expedited and agile mechanisms.
  • More information at this link.

CNBS informs supervised institutions about new temporary financial measures (March 21, 2020)

  • CNBS, through notice No. 006/2020, approved temporary financial measures, which allow addressing the economic impact on sectors affected by the measures adopted by the country to prevent COVID19.
  • More information at this link.

CNBS communicates the second measures of the first phase of the plan for mitigating the economic and financial impact of COVID-19 of mandatory compliance for supervised institutions. (March 21, 2020)

  • The institutions supervised by the National Commission of Banks and Insurance that carry out credit operations may grant grace periods to debtors (individuals or legal entities) that are affected by the reduction of their cash flows. The affected debtors will be able to formalize refinancing or readjustments of their loans. Supervised institutions will not charge debtors.
  • More information at this link.

CNBS through CNBS Circular No. 007/2020 informs the general population about the suspension of deadlines (March 23, 2020)

  • All deadlines, legal or administrative terms granted to financial institutions in all matters or proceedings pending at CNBS are suspended and were communicated or began to run before March 16, 2020.
  • This suspension does not apply to the submission of periodic reports referring to figures and data that are necessary to evaluate the behavior of temporary or urgent measures issued by CNBS.
  • More information at this link.

CNBS approves temporary mechanisms to mitigate economic repercussions in the insurance sector (March 26, 2020)

  • Insurance institutions may grant a grace period for the payment of premiums until June 30, 2020, during which period defaults, or fractional premium payments, are to be frozen.
  • Insurance institutions are banned from applying administrative or other additional charges to policyholders who request said grace period.
  • More information at this link.

 

JUDICIAL POWER OF HONDURAS

The Judiciary suspends its activities in part (March 15, 2020)

  • Through release No. 2, the Judiciary informs that those over 60 years of age will be allowed to telework to avoid suspending public hearings. It also limits several of its functions, leaving essential activities, in order not to violate fundamental rights. Tours, trips abroad, the exercise of practitioners, and other activities are suspended.
  • Press release at this link.

The Judiciary extends the period for suspension of activities due to the government shutdown (March 21, 2020)

  • The Judiciary, through agreement No PCSJ 10-2020, extends the term of suspension of Judiciary work at the national level from Monday, March 23 to Sunday, March 29, 2020, allowing telework, instead. Moreover, the days mentioned above are declared as non-business days for purposes of proceedings and procedural deadlines, from midnight Sunday to Monday, March 23, 2020, until 23:59:59 on Sunday, March 29, 2020.
  • Press release at this link.

The term of suspension of work of the Judiciary at the national level is extended to April 5, 2020 (March 29, 2020)

  • The Judiciary Power through Agreement No. PCSJ 13-2020 communicates the extension of the term for suspension of work at the national level until April 5, 2020. The days that run during the said term must be considered unworkable for actions and procedural deadlines.
  • Agreement No. PCSJ 13-2020

The term of suspension of work in the Judiciary is extended at a national level until April 26, 2020 (April 19, 2020)

  • Judiciary work for employees remains suspended until April 26, 2020.
  • The Courts of Appeals, the Courts of First Instance, and Justices of the Peace involved in criminal, contentious-administrative, childhood and adolescence, family and domestic violence matters, the Execution Courts, Public Defense, the General Supervision of the Judiciary, members of security and surveillance, as well as technical and administrative personnel will attend to specific urgent matters within their powers.

Judiciary work at the national level will remain suspended until May 4, 2020 (April 26, 2020)

  • The suspension of work within the Judiciary, considered as non-working days, is extended until May 4, 2020.
  • The Courts of Appeals, the Courts of First Instance and Justices of the Peace that deal with criminal, contentious-administrative, childhood and adolescence, family and domestic violence matters, the Sentencing Courts, Public Defense, General Supervision of the Judiciary, members of security and surveillance, as well as technical and administrative personnel will attend to specific questions depending upon their urgency.
  • Appellate court judges, lower court judges on all matters and sentencing judges who have definitive orders and/or pending sentences to be drafted are ordered to report to their offices at least one day a week to work on such matters behind closed doors.
  • The Courts of Appeals and the Labor Courts, as well as those of Departmental and Sectional Chambers, are empowered to hear labor matters of immediate attention that imply any type of violation of the rights of workers or employers.
  • More information at this link.

The term of suspension of work of the Judiciary is agreed (May 3, 2020)

  • Judiciary work remains suspended until May 17, 2020.
  • The certification unit is empowered to attend requests for notary authentications and the authentication of the signature on criminal records by appointment and according to the last digit of the identity card.
  • The provisions adopted in the previous agreement regarding the work of the courts of the Republic of Honduras remain in effect.
  • More information at this link.

The term of suspension of work in the Judiciary is extended at the national level from May 18 to May 24, 2020 (May 17, 2020)

  • The suspension of work in the Judicial Branch is extended nationwide from May 18-24, 2020.
  • The judicial servants must carry out as much work activity as possible in their homes and are legally permitted to prepare pertinent documents to reduce the judicial delay.
  • The Courts of Appeals, the lower courts and Justices of the Peace that hear the criminal, contentious-administrative, childhood and adolescence, family and domestic violence matters, the Execution Courts, the Public Defense, the General Supervision of Power Judicial, security and surveillance members, as well as administrative-technical staff will attend to specific questions under their urgent powers.
  • Magistrates of the Courts of Appeals and district judges of all matters and sentencing judges are ordered to have definitive orders and/or sentences pending drafting, to go to their offices at least one day a week to work behind closed doors in these judicial resolutions.
  • The Courts of Appeals and the Labor Courts, as well as those of Departmental and Sectional Letters, will be empowered to manage labor matters of immediate attention that involve any type of violation of the rights of workers or employers.
  • The Notary Public Comptroller’s Office will be empowered to authorize the purchase of special notary paper.
  • More information at this link.

The term of suspension of work in the Judiciary is extended at the national level from May 25 to 31, 2020 (May 24, 2020)

  • The suspension of work in the Judicial Branch is extended nationwide from May 25 to 31, 2020.
  • The judicial servants must carry out as much work activity as possible in their homes and are legally permitted to pursue the elaboration of pertinent documents to reduce the judicial delay.
  • The Courts of Appeals, the District Courts and Justices of Peace that hear the criminal, contentious-administrative, childhood and adolescence, family and domestic violence matters, the Compliance Courts, the Public Defense, the General Supervision of Judicial Power, security and surveillance members, as well as technical administrative personnel will attend to specific questions under their urgent powers.
  • Magistrates of the Courts of Appeals, District Court Judges, and sentencing Judges who have definitive orders or pending sentences to be drafted are ordered to go to their offices at least one day a week to work closed-door in these judicial resolutions. These provisions do not apply to the headquarters of Comayagua, Department of Comayagua, El Progreso, Department of Yoro, or Las Vegas, Department of Santa Bárbara due to the high levels of contagion in these areas of the country.
  • The Courts of Appeals and the Labor Courts, as well as of Courts of First Instance (Departmental and Sectional Letters), will be empowered to manage immediate labor issues that involve any type of violation of the rights of workers or employers.
  • The Notary Public Comptroller’s Office will be empowered to authorize the purchase of special notary paper.
  • More information at this link.

The term of suspension of work in the Judiciary is extended at the national level from June 1 to 7, 2020 (May 31, 2020)

  • The suspension of work in the Judicial Branch is extended nationwide from June 1 to 7, 2020.
  • The judicial servants must carry out as much work activity in their homes as possible and that is legally permitted to continue in the elaboration of pertinent documents and reduce the judicial delay.
  • The Courts of Appeals, the Courts of Letters and Justices of the Peace that hear the criminal, contentious-administrative, childhood and adolescence, family and domestic violence matters, the Execution Courts, the Public Defense, the General Supervision of Power Judicial, security and surveillance members, as well as technical administrative personnel will attend to specific questions under their urgent powers.
  • Magistrates of the Courts of Appeals, judges of letters in all matters and sentencing judges who have definitive orders or pending sentences to be drafted are ordered to go to their offices at least one day a week to work behind closed doors in these judicial resolutions. These provisions do not apply to the headquarters of Comayagua, Department of Comayagua, El Progreso, Department of Yoro, or Las Vegas, Department of Santa Bárbara due to the high levels of contagion in these areas of the country.
  • The Courts of Appeals and the Labor Courts, as well as Departmental and Sectional units, will be empowered to manage labor matters of immediate attention that involve any type of violation of the rights of workers or employers.

Administrative Litigation Court will serve the public by scheduled appointment (June 11, 2020)

  • The Court of First Instance of Administrative Litigation advises the public that from June 15, 2020, all hearings are by appointment only, previously scheduled by telephone at 2240-6437.

Court of First Instance of Gracias, Lempira Department will attend to the public through scheduled appointments (June 11, 2020)

  • In compliance with the plan for a gradual and responsible reincorporation of face-to-face work of the judiciary, the Court of First Instance of Gracias, Lempira Department, will attend to the public by appointment only, previously scheduled by telephone at 9925-1058 or 8809-2766.

Court of First Instance of the Judicial Section of Comayagua will attend to the public through a previously scheduled appointment (June 11, 2020)

  • The Court of First Instance of the Judicial Section of Comayagua will attend to the public by appointment only, previously scheduled by telephone at 2772-0236 regarding Civil, Family, Labor, and Administrative matters, and 2772-2541 for criminal matters.

Court of First Instance of Administrative Litigation based in San Pedro Sula will serve the public from June 15, 2020 (June 11, 2020)

  • The Court of First Instance of Administrative Litigation based in San Pedro Sula will serve the public from June 15, 2020, preferably via telephone or email. In those cases in which it is essential to appear in person at judicial headquarters, an appointment must be scheduled either by telephone at 2568-0045, 9998-3590, 8849-2518 or email at [email protected] or [email protected]

Court of First Instance of Deprivation of Domain of Goods from Illicit origin with National Jurisdiction will attend to the public by appointment previously scheduled (June 11, 2020)

  • As of June 15, 2020, the Court of First Instance of Deprivation of Domain of Goods from Illicit Origin with National Jurisdiction will attend to the public by appointment only, previously scheduled by telephone at 2221-1339.

Court of First Instance of Tenancy of Francisco Morazán will attend to the public by appointment previously scheduled (June 11, 2020)

  • As of June 15, 2020, the Tenancy Court of Francisco Morazán will attend to the public by appointment only, previously scheduled by telephone at 2238-1101 / 2237-2971.

Court of First Instance of Labor of Francisco Morazán informs the lawyers involved in labor processes to send information (June 11, 2020)

  • The Court of First Instance of Labor of Francisco Morazán informs the lawyers involved in the labor processes to send via email at [email protected] their full name, email address, cell phone and landline numbers, in compliance with the first phase of the Plan of Gradual and Responsible Reincorporation of Face-to-Face Work of the Judiciary.

Court of First Instance of Tenancy of San Pedro Sula will attend to the public from June 15, 2020 (June 12, 2020)

  • The Court of First Instance of Tenancy of San Pedro Sula will attend to the public from June 15, 2020, preferably by telephone or email. In those cases, in which it is essential to appear in person at judicial headquarters, an appointment must be scheduled either by telephone at 2568-0059 or 9951-3625 or by email at [email protected]

Court of First Instance of the Department of Francisco Morazán communicates to the public that it will enable certain acts and terms from June 15, 2020 (June 12, 2020)

  • The Court of First Instance of Labor of the Department of Francisco Morazán will enable the procedural acts and terms regarding the issuance of the trial hearings and the filing of the appeal, if any, as well as any due diligence of said stage of the process notifying by technological means through the Assistant Secretaries who will attest to the preceding acts.

Civil Court of Appeals of San Pedro Sula will attend to the public from June 15, 2020 (June 12, 2020)

  • Civil Court of Appeals of San Pedro Sula will attend to the public from June 15, 2020, preferably via telephone or email. For those cases in which the presence of the user is essential, an appointment must be previously scheduled, either by telephone at 2568-0607 or 9942-1392 or by email, [email protected]

Court of First Instance of the Judicial Section of Choluteca will attend to the public with an appointment previously scheduled (June 12, 2020)

  • Court of First Instance of the Judicial Section of Choluteca will attend to the public as of June 15, 2020, by appointment only, previously scheduled by telephone at the following numbers: 9944-9439, 9728-0054, 3174-7111 or 3320 -8004.

Court of First Instance of the Judicial Section of El Progreso, Yoro will attend to the public by appointment previously scheduled (June 12, 2020)

  • The Court of First Instance of the Judicial Section of El Progreso, Yoro will attend to the public by appointment only, previously scheduled by telephone at 3243-6372 or 3229-9010.

The Gradual and Responsible Reincorporation Process for Face-to-Face Work is approved through Agreement No. PCSJ-34-2020 (June 14, 2020)

  • The Gradual and Responsible Reincorporation Process for Face-to-Face Work is approved, which must be carried out gradually from June 15, 2020, on non-vulnerable public servants.

Court of First Instance of Labor of the Department of Francisco Morazán announces that work is ongoing within the court (June 15, 2020)

  • The Court of First Instance of Labor of the Department of Francisco Morazán maintains internal tasks in the court and refrains from enabling the procedural acts and terms previously announced.

Measures are agreed upon for the reinstatement of staff of the Executive Branch (July 31, 2020). Click here for more information.

  •  The reincorporation of technicians and administrative officers of the Judicial Power whose headquarters are in Region B of the Plan for Gradual and Responsible Reincorporation to the on-site work of the Judicial Power is approved. Likewise, parameters are established for the reinstatement of the rest of the personnel in accordance with the plan mentioned above.

 

The Labor Court Francisco Morazán will reactivate the acts and procedural terms (August 6, 2020). Click here for more information.

  • The Labor Court Francisco Morazán informs that it will enable the acts and procedural terms regarding the issuance of the trial hearings and filing of an appeal, if any, as well as any other formalities appropriate to said stage of the process. The procedural actions will be notified through technological means.

 

MINISTRY OF GOVERNMENT, JUSTICE AND DECENTRALIZATION 

Government and the Judiciary respond to the national alert by suspending work and declaring them non-business days (March 16, 2020)

  • Because of the national emergency occasioned by COVID-19, work was suspended in said Dependencies from Monday, March 16 to Friday, March 20, 2020. The aforementioned days were declared non-business days for the effects of deadlines, actions and legal terms that the Law establishes.
  • More information at this link.

Suspension of work in central and decentralized government institutions remains in effect throughout the national territory (March 29, 2020)

  • Suspension of work at public institutions will continue until April 12, 2020.  Remote work, through telework or electronic means, is permitted.
  • Legal terms and deadlines will be suspended until the first business day occurs.
  • More information at this link.

The extension of terms for foreigners who are in the country under authorized legal stay is approved through Ministerial Agreement 149-2020 (June 24, 2020)

– Foreigners who are in the country under authorized legal permanence due to the national emergency may remain so in the following cases: 1. Tourism, officers, business, and other non-resident foreigners; 2. Renewal of resident card; 3. Renewal of Special Permission to Stay; 4. Extensions of Stay (for processing of residency or special residence permit); 5. Registration in the National Registry of Foreigners.

MINISTRY OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

The Ministry of Economic Development determines curfew maintenance (March 18, 2020)

  • Curfew is maintained with the exception that, for the population to be supplied, markets of different types and food sales can open from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm.
  • On the other hand, the freezing of prices of products related to hygiene, basic basket, and home is decreed. The population is encouraged to report any violation of consumer rights.
  • More information at this link.

The Ministry of Economic Development freezes prices through the Consumer Protection Directorate controls (March 12, 2020)

The Ministry of Economic Development through Ministerial Agreement No. 023-2020 establishes the maximum price for basic products consumed by the Honduran population (March 21, 2020)

  • The maximum prices of products sold to the final consumer are established throughout the national territory with validity from March 18 to April 18, 2020. The General Directorate of Consumer Protection is instructed to guarantee compliance with the Agreement and is entitled to impose corresponding administrative sanctions.
  • Ministerial Agreement No. 023-2020 issued by the Ministry of Economic Development

The Ministry of Economic Development establishes the maximum prices of certain consumer goods throughout the national territory. (March 26, 2020)

  • Prices of 30 products in the Honduran basic basket were frozen. The Directorate for Consumer Protection has been instructed to verify these provisions and implement sanctions against those who fail to comply. More information at this link.

Prices are frozen for certain products in the national territory. (April 9, 2020)

  • The prices of masks, antibacterial gel and alcohol are frozen throughout the national territory.
  • PCM-030-2020.

 

HONDURAS NATIONAL POLICE

The National Police issues press release (March 15, 2020)

  • Issued by the Honduran National Police, you must: Comply with the restriction on meetings of more than 50 people; Temporarily suspend the licensing process for the first time; Attend for renewal and payment processes; Address requests for a permit to carry a weapon (50 permits per day maximum); Address criminal history requests (50 people per day and 50 people in the afternoon). More information at this link.

The National Police issues press release (March 17, 2020)

  • The closing of the accesses to the Central District, San Pedro Sula, Choluteca and La Ceiba is confirmed with the exceptions decreed by the Executive Power. The warning for patients to present documents to the police authority that is on public roads is established. The population is reminded that the rest of the national territory is on a curfew from 8:00 PM on March 17 until 6:00 AM. from March 18, 2020. More information at this link.

The National Police issues press release (March 18, 2020)

  • The permit for fueling is established, for the acquisition of food, medicine, and bank procedures. Absolute curfew must be resumed at 5:00 P.M. in the following cities Distrito Central, La Ceiba, and Choluteca.
  • The order is given to banking institutions, pharmacies and supermarkets to verify the temperature of the citizens who come to their establishment with a stay in the premises of 20 minutes maximum. More information at this link.

The National Police issues a press release (March 19, 2020)

  • Curfew is established after midnight for the cities of Puerto Cortés, Santa Cruz de Yojoa and El Triunfo in the department of Choluteca, starting on March 19, 2020. This does not apply to the port of Puerto Cortes. Workers at this port must demonstrate to the authorities that they do work there and that they are on their way to work.

The National Police issues a press release (March 20, 2020)

  • An absolute curfew is declared in the national territory until March 29 at 3:00 PM. Small food sales centers are authorized to sell products. Supermarkets, pharmacies, grocery stores, tortillerías, bakeries, and express delivery services are authorized to deliver products at home. The agricultural, agro-industrial, agro-export and food distributor sectors can continue with their work. Foreigners who want to return to their country must request authorization.
  • Full statement at this link.

Measures to control the spread of COVID-19 (April 1, 2020)

  • The operation of restaurants, cafes and other prepared food vendors, including home delivery service, is prohibited during the absolute curfew.
  • The provisioners of basic grains, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, meat, fresh fish and shrimp, poultry products and similar foodstuffs are authorized to circulate to supply different establishments.
  • The circulation of vehicles transporting supplies of products of basic needs is authorized.
  • Only the National Police may authorize waivers.
  • Full statement at this link.

Parameters are established for circulation within the national territory (April 4, 2020)

  • Any person that obstructs transit will be removed and judicially summoned and any equipment or material used to block the road will be confiscated.
  • Cargo transport employees must use a mask, alcohol or gel and have all the corresponding preventive biosecurity measures.
  • Customer service is allowed in banks, supermarkets, pharmacies and gas stations on Monday, Wednesday and Friday until 5:00 pm according to the identity card number.
  • Pharmacies and supermarkets are authorized to use delivery services for their clients from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • More information at this link.

Absolute Curfew Declared for the Department of Cortés and El Progreso, Yoro (April 5, 2020)

  • An absolute curfew is established for the Department of Cortés and El Progreso Yoro, starting on April 6, 2020, at 3:00 p.m. Only authorized pharmacies will make deliveries every day of the week from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • More information at this link.

The movement of cargo, merchandise and imported vehicles, among others, is authorized at the national level (April 5, 2020)

  • The entire logistics chain may circulate from the port, temporary customs or tax warehouse, to its final destination at the importer’s facilities.
  • The Single Customs Declaration (DUCA) will serve as a waiver and will be valid to circulate for 5 business days from its issuance.
  • The owner of the load or vehicle must distribute a copy or digital image of the DUCA to all the personnel necessary for the transfer and discharge.
  • More information at this link.

Carrying weapons is prohibited during the health emergency (April 7, 2020)

  • As of April 7, 2020, the carrying of weapons for private individuals is temporarily suspended. Security personnel in the transport of food distribution, valuables, cargo and other items considered as necessary to attend the crisis are excluded.
  • More information at this link.

Curfew is extended until April 19, 2020, at 3:00 p.m. and the segmentation to circulate in the country is adjusted. (April 8, 2020)

  • The curfew is established until April 19, 2020, at 3:00 p.m.
  • Circulation in Honduran territory is authorized from Monday to Friday according to the ending digits of the identity card, passport, and/or residence card. Two terminations per day will be able to transit, starting with ending digits 1 and 2 for Monday.
  • Only on April 10, 2020, terminations 7 and 8 will circulate and on April 11, 2020, terminations 9 and 0.
  • More information at this link.

Circulation is determined by the last number of the identity, passport or residence card for the departments of Cortés, Colón and the municipality of El Progreso, Yoro (April 10, 2020)

  • To enable persons to do banking as well as stock up on essential products a circulation schedule is established in the zones listed according to the last digit of an identity card, passport or residence card.
  • More information at this link.

The National Directorate of Roads and Transportation adopts procedures regarding driving licenses and corresponding sanctions. (April 13, 2020)

  • The measures automatically extend the validity of expired driver’s licenses, violation tickets and hearing appointments, and authorize the population to drive with expired documents for the duration of the state of sanitary emergency.
  • They also reaffirm that those not authorized to circulate under the measures adopted will be subject to the established sanctions.

Hardware store operations resume nationwide (April 15, 2020)

  • SINAGER approves the nationwide resumption of hardware store operations on April 16, 2020, from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a preferential entry for the elderly from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM.
  • More information at this link.

Absolute curfew is extended until April 26, 2020 (April 19, 2020)

  • Rights restriction measures throughout the country are extended until April 19, 2020 in accordance with the segmentation approved related to the last digit of identity card, passport and/or residence card. These measures are not valid for the departments of Colón and Cortés, as well as for the municipality of El Progreso, Yoro.
  • Previously granted safe-conducts remain in force.
  • More information at this link.

The curfew is maintained in the departments of Colón and Cortés, as well as in the municipality of El Progreso, Yoro until May 1, 2020. (April 21, 2020)

  • The curfew is extended for the departments of Colón and Cortés together with the municipality of El Progreso, Yoro until May 1, 2020.
  • Inhabitants of the above-mentioned districts may circulate in daily sequence according to the last digit of their identity card, passport and/or residence card, beginning with termination 1 for Wednesday, April 22, 2020, and ending with termination 0 for May 1, 2020.
  • More information at this link.

The absolute curfew is extended until May 3, 2020 (April 26, 2020)

  • The public is informed that the absolute curfew has been extended until May 3, 2020, with personal daily circulation depending upon the last digit of the identity card, passport and/or residence card, with the exception of the departments of Colón, Cortés and the Municipalities of El Progreso, Yoro and Las Vegas, Santa Barbara.
  • The waivers granted by the Exceptions Committee remain in force.
  • More information at this link.

The absolute curfew is still in force for the departments of Colón, Cortés and the municipalities of El Progreso, Yoro and Las Vegas, Santa Barbara (April 26, 2020)

  • The absolute curfew for the departments of Colón and Cortés and the municipality of El Progreso, Yoro, ordered in the Notice dated April 21, 2020, remains in force.  Persons may circulate on certain days according to the last digit of a valid identity card, passport and/or residence card.
  • The municipality of Las Vegas, Santa Bárbara is included in said measures.
  • More information at this link.

Permission to circulate to supply the population in the department of Cortés and the municipalities of El Progreso, Yoro and Las Vegas, Santa Barbara is temporarily canceled (April 30, 2020)

  • An absolute curfew is established for the department of Cortés and the municipalities of El Progreso, Yoro and Las Vegas, Santa Barbara.
  • The administrative and operational functions of Puerto Cortés for the import and export of products, as well as the passage of cargo transportation, are permitted.
  • Supermarkets and pharmacies may provide home delivery from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • More information at this link.

The absolute curfew is extended until May 17, 2020 (May 3, 2020)

  • The absolute curfew is extended throughout the national territory with modification to the segmentation for the circulation of the population. The segmentation will be subject to the termination of the identity card, passport and/or residence card number, allowing the circulation on weekdays of one number per day, starting with termination 1 for May 4, 2020, and ending with 0 for 15 May 2020. Circulation on Saturday and Sunday is prohibited.
  • Personnel engaged in heavy transport, the agro-food sector and healthcare may transit normally, with waivers still in force.
  • More information at this link.

The Health Risk and Biosecurity Control Unit of the Secretary of State is created in the Security Office (May 4, 2020)

  • The Health Risk and Biosecurity Control Unit of the Secretary of State in the Security Office is created so that it can verify compliance with biosafety protocols in public and private establishments, carry out traceability studies regarding COVID-19 infections, and engage in prevention, vigilance, monitoring, control and sanitation activities.

The absolute curfew is extended until May 24, 2020 (May 17, 2020)

  • The national curfew is extended to May 24, 2020, maintaining the segmentation to circulate according to the last digit of the identity card, passport, and/or resident card for foreigners; starting with termination 1 for May 18, 2020, and ending with termination 5 for May 22, 2020. Circulation is prohibited on Saturdays and Sundays nationwide.
  • Heavy transport, the agri-food sector, and health personnel transit normally, and it is reiterated that the safe-conducts issued by the Exceptions Committee are still in force.
  • More information at this link.

Waivers are still in force (May 22, 2020)

The current absolute curfew is extended until May 31, 2020, at 11:00 pm (May 24, 2020)

  •  The national curfew is extended until May 31, 2020, dividing the population so that individuals can circulate according to the termination number of the identity card, passport or residence card beginning with number 6 on May 25, 2020, and ending with 0 by May 29, 2020.
  • No one may circulate on Saturday and Sunday, except for those authorized by PCM 45-2020. Authorized businesses may offer home delivery.
  • Heavy transport, the agri-food sector, and health personnel travel normally.
  • More information at this link.

Validity of the curfew is extended Nationwide (May 31, 2020)

– The validity of the curfew period is extended nationwide until June 7, 2020, at 11:00 p.m. maintaining the segmentation by the last digit of the identity card, passport and/or residence card (foreigners) starting with number 1 for June 1 and ending with number 5 for June 5 of the current year.

– It is reiterated to the population that the waivers granted by the exceptions committee are still in force and that currently, the national police are in charge of managing these permits for which any interested party may apply at: www.serviciospoliciales.gob.hn/salvoconductos

The Secretary of State in the Security Office will authorize the reopening of shops and companies in general as of June 8, 2020 (June 4, 2020)

  • Shops and companies will be authorized to open for business starting June 8 taking into account the plan for smart opening adopted by the government of the republic and applying the biosafety protocols that have been approved. Companies that wish to operate must request a waiver through the channels approved by the government.
  • Visitors to each business will be attended to upon presentation of their identity card, passport, and/or residence card.
  • The following businesses are excluded from reopening: urban and interurban public transportation, bars, discos, cinemas, gyms, theaters, sporting events, convention centers, airports, and educational centers at the primary, secondary and higher levels; meetings in private homes of more than 10 people are prohibited.
  • More information at this link.

The reactivation of services to citizens is authorized in the corresponding offices of the Police Directorates (June 5, 2020)

– Certain services to citizens that have been reactivated include applying for a first-time driver’s license and renewals, accident appointments, weapons-carrying permits, police records, and legal procedures, among others. Therefore, all citizens are authorized to carry their weapons with their valid permit from June 8, 2020.

– The processes for authorization of private security companies will be carried out by email at [email protected] and the telephone line 2229-0182.

– More information at this link.

Movement is authorized throughout the national territory (June 7, 2020)

– The authorized movement of persons nationwide is regulated by the last digit of their identity card, passport, or resident card, beginning on Monday, June 8 with last number 6 authorized to circulate and ending on Friday, June 12, 2020, with last number 0. More information at this link.

Absolute curfew extended from June 14 to June 28, 2020 (June 14, 2020)

  • The absolute curfew is extended from June 14, 2020, to June 28, 2020, segmenting the public in conducting activities by the last digit of an individual’s identity card, passport, and/or residence card.
  • The following will not reopen to the public: urban and interurban public transportation, bars, discos, cinemas, gyms, theaters, sporting events, convention centers, airports, and educational centers at their primary, secondary and higher levels. Also, gatherings in private homes of more than 10 persons are prohibited.
  • More information at this link.

The suspension of Phase I of the Smart Opening process is established to authorize the operation of certain commercial sectors (June 21, 2020)

  • Phase I of the Smart Opening process is suspended and therefore, the following facilities are authorized to operate: supermarkets, pharmacies, banks, cooperatives, the financial system in general, authorized markets for the Central District, cargo transportation, fuel, agricultural products, perishable food, transportation from public and private hospitals, medical products, security and emergency transportation, water distributors, cleaning trains, energy, telecommunications companies, grocery stores, and markets. The population will be able to obtain supplies according to the last digit of the identity number, passport, or residence card, beginning on Monday, June 22 with number 6 and ending on Friday, June 26, 2020, with number 0. Click here for more information.

Clarification of statement dated June 21, 2020, to authorize vehicle circulation and operation nationwide (June 21, 2020)

  • It is clarified to the population that the restaurants, hardware stores, and other businesses contemplated in the first phase of smart opening are closed.
  • The procedures of citizen attention in the offices of the National Police located in the Central District are suspended until the second order.
  • The issued safeguards are temporarily suspended for the Central District.
  • Click here for more information.

The mandatory quarantine is extended at the national level (June 28, 2020)

  • The mandatory quarantine nationwide is extended until July 12, 2020.
  • Vehicular circulation within the national territory is authorized for the fulfillment of the supply of basic needs, based upon the termination of the identity number, passport or residence card, except for region number 3 where circulation is regulated by the intelligent opening plan according to the last digit of the license plate.

Absolute curfew is extended in the country until July 19, 2020 (July 12, 2020)

  • The absolute curfew will continue at the national level allowing circulation through the segmentation of the population by the last digit of their identity card, passport or resident card beginning on Monday, July 13, 2020, with the termination “1” and ending on Tuesday, July 17 with the termination “5”.
  • Phase 1 will continue throughout the country except for the Central District, San Pedro Sula, Olancho, Choluteca, Atlántida, Comayagua, Santa Bárbara, Lempira and Colon, which will remain in phase 0.
  • The only valid waivers are those issued by the Secretary of Security through the official platform. www.serviciospolicial.gob.hn

Extension of the absolute curfew in the territory until August 2, 2020. (July 26, 2020). Click here for more information.

  • The absolute curfew at the national level will continue except for circulation through the segmentation of the population by the last digit of the identity card, passport or resident card beginning on Monday, July 27, 2020, with the termination “1” and ending on Friday, July 31 with the ending “5”.
  • Phase 1 will continue throughout the country except for Central District, San Pedro Sula, Olancho, Choluteca, Atlántida, Comayagua, Santa Bárbara, Lempira and Colon, which will remain in phase 0.
  • The only valid waivers are those issued by the Secretary of Security through the official platform www.serviciospolicial.gob.hn

The absolute curfew is extended throughout the Honduran territory from August 9 at 9:00 pm to August 24 at 11:00 pm (August 9, 2020). Click here for more information.

  • The absolute curfew is extended throughout the Honduran territory until August 24 at 11:00 pm.
  • Phase 1 of the Gradual and Responsible Opening Process will continue in the municipalities of El Progreso, Yoro, and La Ceiba, Atlántida.
  • Office hours are extended from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
  • The population is segmented by the termination of the identity card, passport, and/or residence card beginning on August 10 with number 1 and ending on August 21 with number 0.
  • The only authorized waivers are digital ones issued through the official platform: www.serviciospolicial.gob.hn

License renewals and payment of violations are temporarily suspended (August 10, 2020). Click here for more information.

  • It is reported that the processes of license renewal and payment of violations are temporarily suspended.

 

RENT MANAGEMENT SERVICE (SAR)

SAR prohibits personal attention (March 15, 2020)

  • To avoid crowds, from Monday, March 16 personal attention is restricted at the SAR facilities, to accord with the termination of the National Tax Registry (RTN) for natural persons.
  • Full statement at this link.

Legal deadlines are extended until April 13, 2020 (March 30, 2020)

  • Legal deadlines that have entered into effect on the procedures initiated in the SAR will be extended until April 13, 2020.
  • Full statement at this link.

The Revenue Administration Service (SAR) authorized the use of non-working days for administrative actions. (April 19, 2020)

  • SAR determined that non-working days and hours for the period from April 19, 2020, to July 19, 2020, may be used for compliance with the inspection, control, verification, examination, notification, recovery of debts, and other actions under the competence of the SAR at the national level.

Public clarification is issued on the SAR-191-2020 Agreement (April 25, 2020)

  • The public is informed that the measures taken in the SAR-191-2020 Agreement were adopted to (1) protect consumers from the wave of abuses in the price of commodities; and (2) collaborate with the comptrollers and investigators in the reporting of corruption cases arising out of the COVID-19 health emergency.

Suspension of legal deadlines is extended until May 4, 2020 (April 27, 2020)

  • The suspension of deadlines in legal proceedings already begun will be extended until May 4, 2020.

Suspension of legal terms is extended until May 25, 2020 (May 18, 2020)

– The suspension of legal deadlines for the procedures initiated at the request of the interested party and ex officio before the SAR is approved until May 25, 2020

Suspension of legal terms is extended until June 29, 2020 (June 15, 2020)

  • The suspension of legal deadlines until June 29, 2020, for the procedures initiated at the request of the interested party and ex officio before the SAR is approved.

Extension is granted for filing tax obligations until August 31, 2020 (June 28, 2020)

  • An extension for the presentation of fiscal obligations is granted to taxpayers who during the period of restriction of constitutional rights have not developed any type of economic activity. This extension applies to Income Tax Declaration (ISR) for natural persons; Declaration of ISR, Net Assets and Solidarity Contribution for Legal Persons; Specific Single Income Tax on Leasing or Rental of Homes or Apartment Buildings; Cooperative Sector Social Contribution; Contribution of the Social Sector of the Economy; and Special Contribution Educational Surpluses.

The Secretary of Labor and Social Security communicates to the employers and workers of the country. (July 16, 2020)

  • To retain the jobs in force during the pandemic, the period of labor suspension will be subject to the termination of the validity of the national health emergency decreed by the Executive Power.
  • Employers must email requests to the Secretary of Labor at informació[email protected]

The Real State Property Registry will be attending in the following way(July 27, 2020)

 

  • On July 29, 2020, the offices of San Pedro Sula, Cortés and Roatán, Islas de la Bahía; on July 30 the offices of El Progreso, Yoro, on July 31 the offices of La Ceiba, Atlántida. On August 3, the offices of Comayagua, Comayagua; on August 4 the offices of Gracias, Lempira and la Esperanza, Intibucá; on August 5, the offices of Choluteca, Choluteca; on August 7, the offices of Santa Rosa de Copán, Copán; on August 11, the offices of Santa Bárbara and Marcala, La Paz; on August 12 the offices of Ocotepeque, Ocotepeque; on August 13 the offices of Puerto Cortés, Cortés; and on August 19 the offices of Olanchito, Yoro.

HONDURAN INSTITUTE OF LAND TRANSPORT (IHTT)

  • The Honduran Institute of Land Transport confirms to the general public that it continues operating. (March 14, 2020)
  • It is confirmed that the public transport of people in all its modalities must continue to operate, following the recommendations made by the Ministry of Health.
  • The receipt, processing and granting of eventual permits are suspended, even the effects of those authorized before the emergency decree.
  • It is prohibited to transport more than 50 people in transport units in the modality of Urban and Interurban Transport.
  • More information at this link.

 

CUSTOMS

The Honduran Customs Administration is strengthening its relations with El Salvador at the international border. (March 14, 2020)

  • Commercial operators and freight forwarders are advised that due to the COVID-19 emergency, the Honduran Government and the Republic of El Salvador have agreed to streamline the trade of goods between the two countries through their border customs at El Poy, El Amatillo and Mocalempa. No ban has been issued so far regarding the transport of goods from one border to another. Drivers who may pass through with their identity cards are not authorized to bring companions.
  • More information at this link.

The Honduran Customs Administration confirms regular operation in the course of trade (March 17, 2020)

  • According to studies by the World Health Organization (WHO), there is no evidence to support the transmission of COVID-19 associated with imported goods. Therefore, the various customs facilities of the country will be open and operating normally.
  • Customs Administration employees are instructed to follow the safety and hygiene protocol in the workplace. This includes keeping a distance of at least one meter from each other.
  • More informaiton at this link.

The Customs Administration through its certification CUSTOMS-SG-059-2020 approves the Transitory Measures For Customs Operations During the Sanitary Emergency COVID-19 (March 24, 2020)

  • The authorization of the country’s customs is guaranteed uninterrupted with the ordinary processing of customs procedures. Incapable periods are declared, and the limitation and expiration periods are suspended. DUCA is temporarily authorized to support the verification of the documents required by printing, QR codes, scanning of the required documents.
  • More information at this link.

The suspension of terms is maintained for as long as the restriction persists due to the health emergency (August 5, 2020)

  • Legal representatives, attorneys-in-fact, taxpayers, and the public are informed that the suspension of terms is maintained for as long as the restriction persists due to the health emergency due to COVID-19.
  • To enable orderly and safe attention to users, appointments may be requested through the appointment management system by entering www.aduanas.gob.hn/reservas

 

CIVIL AERONAUTICS

Civil Aeronautics informs through Communicate #2 the decision to close airports (March 17, 2020)

  • The following airports will be closed: Toncontín International Airport, Golosón International Airport, and Juan Manuel Galvez International Airport.
  • The Villeda Morales International Airport will continue to operate only for cargo, supply and, strictly exceptional flights from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM; such flights must obtain prior authorization from the competent authority.
  • More information at this link.

Civil Aeronautics informs through Communicate #3 that it maintains the closure of airports (March 20, 2020)

  • The closure of operations is maintained at the Toncontín, Golosón and Juan Manuel Galvéz Airports. Ramón Villeda Morales Airport will provide air traffic service from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM for regular and non-regular cargo flights. Authorization is required for air transportation of equipment and spare parts for hospital use, medicines and other donations, as well as for humanitarian aid operations to transport passengers affected by the emergency.
  • More information at this link.

National and international flights will be allowed with prior authorization of 24 hours (March 27, 2020)

  • National and international flights from any State, International Organizations or Air Operators must request authorization through forms sent to the mailing address designated for this purpose in time to allow for approval 24 hours before departure. Private flights for foreigners and Hondurans abroad must be requested through accredited embassies or consulates and/or accredited Honduran diplomatic missions abroad.

Closure of airport terminal operations continues. (April 13, 2020)

  • The operations at Toncontin, Golosón and Juan Manuel Gálvez airports will remain closed until Sunday, April 19, 2020.
  • Ramón Villeda Morales Airport will provide service from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM for cargo flights by companies established in the country, national and foreign.
  • Humanitarian operations must be authorized by SINAGER, or by the Secretary of Tourism or the Secretary of Foreign Relations and International Cooperation upon request 24 hours in advance. The crews must remain on the aircraft and if they need to descend, they must abide by the rules of the respective sterile areas.
  • More information at this link.

Civil Aeronautics authorizes instructions for the digital reception and internal processing of applications (April 13, 2020)

  • New instructions authorize digital reception and internal processing of requests and documents of a technical-administrative nature that are presented to Civil Aeronautics and that do not require a resolution. Such procedures will remain in force during the state of emergency.
  • More information at this link.

Instructions are authorized for the digital reception and internal processing of applications for national trademark and Honduran registration (April 16, 2020)

  • An instruction has been approved to process national trademark applications and Honduran registration digitally. Said process will be in force during the period of the state of emergency in order to prevent the spread of the pandemic.
  • More information at this link.

Airport terminal operations are still closed. (April 20, 2020)

  • Operations at Toncontin, Golosón and Juan Manuel Gálvez airports will remain close until the restoration of constitutional rights at the national level.
  • The Ramón Villeda Morales airport will provide service from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM for cargo flights by companies established in the country, whether national or foreign.
  • Humanitarian operations must be authorized by SINAGER, the Secretary of Tourism or the Secretary of Foreign Relations and International Cooperation, depending on the case, upon request 24 hours in advance. The crews must remain on the aircraft and should they need to descend, they must abide by measures in the sterile areas.

Airports operations remain closed until new guidelines are issued (June 1, 2020)

  • Honduran international airports remain closed until the Central Government issues new guidelines. Meanwhile, Ramon Villeda Morales Airport is authorized to provide air traffic service from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. for regular and non-regular cargo flights of national and foreign companies established in the country.
  • Flights with Honduran entry or foreign departure from national territory must be authorized by the relevant diplomatic missions or Honduran consular representations via direct communication with the Secretariat of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (SRE).
  • The SRE will manage and coordinate the departure of foreigners upon receipt of a request sent by their diplomatic or consular representations accredited in Honduras.

Instructions for the authorization and renewal of permits for foreign aircraft in the national territory are approved. (June 2, 2020)

  • Instructions for the authorization and renewal of circulation permits in the national territory or the renewal of operations by aircraft with foreign registration are approved.

Digital procedure for submitting applications is approved through Agreement No. 4 (June 2, 2020)

  • A temporary digital procedure is authorized for the reception and administrative management of requests submitted by citizens through a legal professional, to guarantee due process under applicable regulations.

The Honduran Civil Aeronautics Agency will restore national and international flights through 4 phases (June 19, 2020)

  • The Honduran Civil Aeronautics Agency (AHAC) announced a defined 4-phase air reactivation plan, focused on gradually re-establishing commercial air transport, starting with implementing biosafety protocols and guaranteeing a gradual, safe and reliable return for individuals, companies, and other participants that make up the aeronautical structure. Click here for more information.

Government announces reopening of airports for domestic flights on August 10 and for international flights on August 17, 2020 (August 4, 2020). Click here for more information.

  • It is announced that the airports in Honduras are ready and safe to operate as of August 10 for domestic flights and on August 17, 2020, for international flights. This opening will be carried out gradually to enable staff training in biosecurity protocols.

 

MINISTRY OF FINANCE

The purchase of masks and hand gel within the national territory is exempted from the payment of sales tax. (March 12, 2020)

  • Hondurans are exempt from payment of Sales Tax for local purchases of masks and antibacterial gel throughout the entire commercial market from March 12, 2020, to December 31, 2020.
  • The Ministry of Finance issued a booklet addressed to the general population and also to Customs on applying fiscal relief measures (March 13, 2020)
  • This booklet has instructions on how to enforce Tax relief for those subjects to Sales Tax. It also establishes the instructions for natural and legal persons regarding the Production and Consumption Tax, as well as guidelines for State institutions on how to proceed under Decree 29-2020 regarding local purchase and imports (for Customs awareness).
  • SEFIN Booklet

All taxpayers classified as Large Taxpayers who enjoy tax benefits by Special Laws and Decrees are notified to proceed and send their corresponding exemption request. (April 6, 2020)

  • The taxpayers classified as Large Taxpayers are notified to send their request for exemption from taxes generated by the PAMEH system, which are pending before the General Directorate of Control of Customs Franchises, to the emails: [email protected] or [email protected]

 

MINISTRY OF LABOR AND SOCIAL SECURITY

The Ministry of Labor and Social Security authorizes emergency work furloughs as vacation time(March 26, 2020)

  • Employers and employees in the private sector are authorized to agree in writing between the parties that days off for the coronavirus emergency can be taken as vacation days under the State of National Health Emergency.

The Government of Honduras issues a Biosecurity Manual for Reason of the Pandemic COVID-19 for Companies. (April 16, 2020)

  • The Government of Honduras authorizes the release of the Biosecurity Manual for Reason of the Pandemic COVID-19 for Companies to guide businesses in the installation of workplace safety measures.
  • The dissemination of the manual does not constitute authorization to operate but rather instructs employers on how to prepare for an orderly return to work and create a culture of using the necessary personal protective equipment. The same measures are to be applied by those companies that have the authorization to operate during or after the emergency.

Ministry of Labor and Social Security announces the procedure to follow for suspension of employment contracts (April 17, 2020)

  • The Ministry of Labor and Social Security under Legislative Decree No. 33-2020 introduces the procedure to comply with the provisions regarding the suspension of employment contracts by requesting and filing legally required documents via email to [email protected]

The process for the suspension of work contracts of companies in the tourism sector is approved (May 17, 2020)

  • Companies that decide to avail themselves of the suspensions of employment contracts framed in Decree 33-2020, must send their forms electronically. Once the curfew is lifted, employers must present in physical form requests for authorization of suspension of employment contracts and also prove that they made the solidarity contribution payments.

The population is informed that as of June 8, 2020, measures contained in biosafety protocols must be applied (June 5, 2020)

  • Companies and the general population are informed that when they are working within the framework of the reopening of the economy, the biosafety protocols authorized by the State must be applied. Companies and employers must supply their workers with the corresponding equipment and those who do not receive it are not obliged to work nor will they be subject to disciplinary or administrative sanctions as a result.
  • Persons over 60, pregnant, hypertensive, diabetic, with cancer or with any other high-risk disease that keeps their immune system compromised, will NOT be obliged to report to work nor will they be subject to sanctions.
  • Companies are obliged to provide a means of transportation for their employees while public transportation is not authorized to operate.

Measures to be followed for job reinstatement are issued (August 4, 2020). Click here for more information.

  • Anyone over 60 years of age, pregnant, or suffering from pre-existing diseases or comorbidities that compromise the immune system, who needs to report to work must have a medical opinion or certification issued by a qualified IHSS doctor or the doctor designated by the company for the care of its employees that certifies the condition in which the worker is found and attests to whether he is capable of performing in the workplace or if due to his condition should be assigned to telework.

 

HONDURAN BANK FOR PRODUCTION AND HOUSING (BANHPROVI)

BANHPROVI approves necessary measures to guarantee the financing of productive sectors in compliance with Legislative Decree 31-2020 (March 24, 2020)

  • The Bank has authorized measures to collect all the rediscounted loans to financial institutions by transferring the installments for March, April and May 2020, creating an extension of the credit maturity date.

THE MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT (MIAMBIENTE)

Authorization to submit applications for an Environmental License online (March 27, 2020)

  • MIAMBIENTE has authorized the submission of applications for an Environmental License online, attaching the corresponding technical and legal documentation, and presenting such documentation in physical form within 60 days after the end date of the COVID-19 Emergency. Those who have expired licenses may operate and request renewal under the aforementioned term. The same deadline will apply to the presentation of the ICMA in physical form once the measures derived from the emergency of COVID-19 are lifted.

SANITARY REGULATION AGENCY

Hydroxychloroquine, Chloroquine and Azithromycin medications must be prescribed by medical professionals (March 26, 2020)

  • The medications Hydroxychloroquine, Chloroquine and Azithromycin must be prescribed by medical professionals and must be dispensed strictly and only under a medical prescription, which must be retained in the authorized pharmaceutical establishment or hospital. Said prescription will be valid for 30 days from its issuance date.
  • The commercialization of the mentioned drugs must be carried out exclusively in authorized pharmaceutical establishments, their manufacture, storage and distribution in unauthorized establishments is banned.

Quality control will be carried out related to the sensitivity and specificity of the diagnostic tests for COVID-19 (April 1, 2020)

  • Due to the high demand and need for medical devices that help in the detection and diagnosis of COVID-19, quality control related to the sensitivity and specificity of the tests will be carried out. Petitioner companies must make 100 test kits available to the ARSA to determine what tests can be useful to the health system. To proceed with the importation of test kids, said petitioner must request a special import permit.

NATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATION COMMISSION (CONATEL)

CONATEL and telecommunication operators agree to guarantee the continuity of services for all Hondurans (April 7, 2020)

  • Telecommunications operators have agreed not to suspend service for the duration of the crisis, granting users the flexibility to make their payments through self-management platforms.
  • They must establish measures to provide a basic package that maintains connectivity free of charge to users who have financial difficulties paying for telephone and internet service.
  • These measures will not generate any cost for late payment or affect the user’s credit record.

CONATEL notifies the general public, operators, and legal representatives of the Telecommunications Sector. (July 28, 2020)

  • An Appointment System is enabled from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm. To request an appointment, one must access the web site: http://sitae.conatel.gob.hn:140/ingreso.aspx and select the day and time to schedule the appointment at the Institution

 

NATIONAL HEALTH AND FOOD SAFETY SERVICE

Special procedures are approved to obtain registration in the National Service of Agrofood Health and Safety (May 4, 2020)

  • Special procedures are approved to obtain temporary registration in the areas of Agrofood Safety, Plant Health, and Animal Health, with the understanding that once the national emergency is lifted, the interested parties will have a period of 90 days to file the corresponding physical documents before the National Service of Agrofood Health and Safety.

PROPERTY INSTITUTE (IP)

The reopening of the service facilities of the Mercantile Registry located in the Chamber of Commerce and Industries of Tegucigalpa and the Chamber of Commerce and Industries of Cortés is approved (May 13, 2020)

  • The IP is preparing for the reopening of service centers nationwide, reporting when this happens through their social networks or media.
  • As of May 14, 2020, the reopening of the Commercial Registry service facilities located in the Chamber of Commerce and Industries of Tegucigalpa and the Chamber of Commerce and Industries of Cortés is approved.

Property Registry re-opens its doors to the public on May 21, 2020 (May 20, 2020)

  • The Property Institute informs the general population that the Francisco Morazán Property Registry located in Colonia Humuya, Edificio San José, will re-open to the public beginning on May 21, 2020, with visiting hours from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Payment schedule for the payment of the Single Annual Vehicle Tax for the period 2020 (July 1, 2020)

  • The public is informed that as of July 1, the payment of the Single Annual Vehicle Tax for the period 2020 enters into effect. Those who are responsible for paying in July, and cannot make the payment in cash, may do so by up to 6 monthly installments payable until December 31, 2020, without incurring a fine.
  • Cargo vehicles, trailers, dredges, and urban and interurban passenger transport vehicles identified with rental plates (A) and trailers with R and TR plates, may pay the Single Annual Vehicle Tax in 12 monthly installments beginning the month that payment would otherwise be due.

The Commercial Registry will be open to the public (July 12, 2020)

  • The Mercantile Registry opens its doors to serve the public, strictly respecting circulation according to the segmentation set forth by the Ministry of Security.

The Property Registry opens its doors to users as of July 13, 2020(July 12, 2020)

  • The Property Institute informs the general public that the Francisco Morazán Property Registry located in Colonia Humuya, Edificio San José, will open to users as of July 13, 2020, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION

Emergency guidelines for the evaluation of learning are approved for the end of the 2019-2020 school year (May 17, 2020)

  • Emergency measures are adopted to assess the learning achieved in non-governmental educational centers with a school calendar from September to June of the 2019-2020 school year.

HONDURAN COUNCIL OF PRIVATE ENTERPRISE (COHEP)

COHEP will issue waivers to employees of the different authorized companies (May 22, 2020)

  • The Secretary of Security empowers COHEP to issue waivers to legally authorized companies under PCM-45-2020, by entering the link, www.cohep.com/salvoconducto

CORTÉS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRIES (CCIC)

The Chamber of Commerce and Industries of Cortés (CCIC) requests its partners to send documentation (May 23, 2020)

  • CCIC members are informed that before requesting proof of authorization from COHEP, they proceed to send documentation to the CCIC.

TEGUCIGALPA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRIES (CCIT)

The Chamber of Commerce and Industries of Tegucigalpa (CCIT) will provide support to COHEP in the issuance of proof of authorization (May 24, 2020)

  • The CCIT informs its affiliates that it will support COHEP in the issuance of proof of authorization to companies legally registered and authorized to provide their services in the sectors pursuant to PCM-45-2020, sending the required information via email to [email protected] to follow up on the request.

MUNICIPAL MAYOR OF THE CENTRAL DISTRICT

Procedures can be managed virtually (May 29, 2020)

  • The population of the Central District is informed that they will be able to carry out digital procedures of Compatibilities, Operating Permits, Company Solvencies; Proof of location, simplified works licenses, non-simplified works licenses, among others.

NATIONAL REGISTRY OF PERSONS 

National Registry of Persons (RNP) will attend to the public from June 15, 2020 (June 12, 2020)

  • The RNP will attend to the public from June 15, 2020, by the last digit of a person’s identity card according to the provisions adopted by the corresponding authorities.

 

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