Entry Policies Due to Covid-19 for Europe
From almost the start of the pandemic, the COVID-19 cases and deaths in Europe soon exceeded those in other regions of the world. Each country in Europe is under very different regulations and has been impacted by the pandemic in a different way.
Italy is one of the areas which was highlighted during the pandemic and quickly became one of the regions of greatest concern in Europe. Every country in Europe has had at least one death during the past year, with the exception of the Vatican City.
When planning a trip to Europe, keep up to date with the local news, as lockdowns are a common occurrence in many countries in this region. Countries with the highest number of cases in the region include Italy, Spain, the UK, France, and Russia.
When it comes to traveling to Europe, you'll want to treat each country individually in regards to restrictions. Each government has very different requirements and regulations in place to protect its citizens and healthcare systems.
If you are required to transit through another European country, ensure this is possible at the time of your trip this year.
You may need to consider an alternative route for travel. While many people love to travel to multiple countries in one trip to Europe, this may not be as straightforward as it was prior to the pandemic due to quarantine restrictions in some countries.
Requirements for entry will vary from country to country, and it's likely that you'll need to complete a health declaration or show a negative COVID-19 test to enter anywhere in Europe. Many countries keep ever-changing lists that indicate who is and isn't welcome into the country at the current time.
Be sure to be aware of these lists, as restrictions often vary depending on the country you are traveling from. Some countries will have different requirements for visitors from certain countries, and completely different rules and regulations govern each country.
Your health and safety should always be your number one concern when traveling to Europe this year, so keep yourself safe by following the entry requirements listed below.
Albania
Oct 10 2021 While officials have not reverted to a hard lockdown that had been imposed during the early stages of the pandemic a nightly curfew and other sanitary measures remain in effect. Following a renewed increase in new infections officials extended curfew hours and tightened restrictions on international travel in September 2021. A nightly curfew is in effect from 23:00-06:00 local time. During curfew hours movement outside the home will be permitted only for work health and other exceptional cases and restaurants and cafes will be permitted to provide delivery service only. A permit must be obtained for movement during curfew hours on the e-Albania government portal (e-albania.al/). Public transport is operating at a reduced capacity. Gatherings of more than 50 people are banned. In December 2020 multiple rallies were held in Tirana Shkoder Korce and several other cities following a fatal police shooting of a man during enforcement of a curfew order. Some of the demonstrations spiralled into clashes with police. Flights that had been scheduled at Tirana International Airport for 7-8 April 2021 were cancelled after dozens of air traffic controllers launched a strike over pay cuts amid a drop in air traffic. COVID-19 vaccine delivery was also temporarily disrupted by the strike. Flag carrier Air Albania and several other airlines are operating international flights through Tirana International Airport (TIA/LATI). Destinations include Milan Frankfurt Vienna and Belgrade. However only nationals and residents of a European Union (EU) member state may board outbound flights to the EU. Maritime and overland border crossings with Montenegro Kosovo North Macedonia and Greece are open to entry. Restrictions imposed by some neighbouring countries remain in effect. Before travel All arriving travellers must show proof of a negative test recovery or vaccination against COVID-19. The test must be a PCR test taken within 72 hours or a rapid antigen test taken within 48 hours before arrival. Transiting passengers must also show proof of a negative test recovery or vaccination against COVID-19. The test must be a PCR test taken within 72 hours or a rapid antigen test taken within 48 hours before arrival. There is no national contact tracing app. Albanian nationals who fail to present valid COVID-19 documentation must self-quarantine for 10 days. A face mask must be worn in all indoor public spaces including public transport and Tirana International Airport. An overnight curfew is in effect.
Belarus
Oct 19 2021 Flag carrier Belavia cancelled flights on most European routes until 14 December 2021 due to international sanctions imposed in response to the forced landing of a Vilnius-bound passenger jet by Belarusian authorities in May 2021. The European Union (EU) has banned Belarusian airlines from using EU airspace or airports while Lufthansa airBaltic SAS and several other European carriers suspended operations through Belarusian airspace. Belarusian airlines are also banned from entering UK airspace. Foreign nationals are permitted to enter by air only. Travel by land and water is not permitted. Before travel Unvaccinated foreign nationals must present a medical certificate of a negative PCR test result that is no older than three days before entry. The certificate must be issued in English Belarusian or Russian. Residents of Belarus and transiting passengers are exempt from testing. Nationals and residents of Belarus are banned from leaving the country indefinitely. Exiting the country is permitted once every three months for education for work or with documents confirming temporary or permanent residence in another country. Foreign nationals who are subject to quarantine cannot exit Belarus before the end of the seven-day period. International travel to Belarus is restricted due to government measures against COVID-19 as well as international sanctions against the country. On 9 May 2020 anti-government activists protested in Babruysk in protest of the governments decision to hold a military parade in Minsk on the same day. There is no national contact tracing app. A seven-day self-quarantine is mandatory for travellers arriving from a red zone country. Belarus confirmed the countrys first case of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) on 28 February 2020. Sporting events restaurants houses of worship schools public transport and non-essential businesses have been allowed to operate with minimal restrictions. However restrictions on international travel to the country remain in effect. Multiple regions including Minsk require face masks to be worn in certain spaces. In Minsk face masks must be worn inside shopping centres and on public transport including taxis and the metro. Authorities will impose a face mask-wearing mandate on public transport including in taxis in Mogilev Mogilev region from 9 October until further notice Passengers at Minsk National Airport are required to wear protective face masks at all times during check-in during security checks on buses or on board the aircraft during their flight. Passengers who do not comply can be denied boarding or removed from their flight. From 9 October authorities imposed mask-wearing and social distancing mandates nationwide in public venues including restaurants cinemas theatres and shops as well as on public transport and in taxis. Public events including festivals and sporting events were banned in Pinsk district Brest region as of 7 October.
Belgium
Oct 20 2021 In Brussels restaurants bars and cafes are permitted to remain open until 01:00 eight people can be seated per table dependent on household size. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: In Brussels since 15 October the requirement to present a health pass applies to public indoor venues including cafes restaurants or events with more than 50 people indoors and 200 people outdoors. In Wallonia from 1 November-15 January the pass will neeed to be presented for access to public indoor venues including cafes and restaurants or events with more than 50 people indoors and 200 people outdoors. In both Brussels and Wallonia the age requirement for the health pass is 16 and above. However for high risk locations including hospitals mass events or retirement homes the age requirement is at 12 years old and above. Covid Pass availability: A Health Pass (Covid Safe Ticket) measure is in place for those who have been vaccinated against COVID-19 recovered from a previous infection or recently tested negative for the virus. The pass can be obtained from the CovidSafeBE app. Demonstrations have been held in protest of COVID-19 related measures including in Brussels Mont des Arts Central Station and Schuman Station. Clashes erupted near the Brussels North police station on 13 January while demonstrators rallied also at Place du Nord and Place Liedts in Schaerbeek to denounce the death of a 23-year-old man in police custody after fleeing a COVID-19 checkpoint on 9 January. On 31 January over 400 demonstrators were detained during an unauthorised rally against the governments COVID-19 restrictions. Brussels Airlines is primarily operating flights on international routes through Brussels Airport (BRU/EBBR). International flights are also available at Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL/EBCI). Non-essential travel is banned from non-European Union (EU)/Schengen Area countries except for fully vaccinated travellers. Travellers from white list countries - Australia Bosnia and Herzegovina Canada Hong Kong Jordan Macau Moldova New Zealand Qatar Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Taiwan Ukraine and Uruguay - are exempt from the ban. Transit from a non-Schengen country through Belgium to another Schengen country is only permitted for EU/Schengen nationals and for essential travel. Before travel Travellers - excluding arrivals from quot;greenquot; or quot;orangequot; countries - must present valid proof of a negative test recovery or vaccination against COVID-19. The test must be a negative PCR test that was issued within 72 hours of arrival and the result must be in Dutch French German or English. Consult the Belgian government website (www.info-coronavirus.be/en/colour-codes-by-country/) for a list of regions and countries by colour code. Transiting air passengers are generally exempt from testing provided that they remain in the transit zone of the airport. However travellers will be asked to present a negative test before arrival if the test is required for travel to their final destination. Upon arrival Unvaccinated travellers arriving from EU or quot;white listquot; countries in the quot;red zonequot; must take a COVID-19 test on day 1. Travellers with proof of vaccination or recovery are exempt. Travellers from other quot;red zonequot; non-EU/Schengen countries must take a COVID-19 test on day 1 regardless of vaccination status. After arrival Travellers arriving from quot;red zonequot; EU/Schengen countries or white list quot;red zonequot; non-EU/Schengen countries without valid proof of recovery or vaccination must take a PCR test on day 7. All travellers arriving from other quot;red zonequot; or quot;very high-riskquot; non-EU/Schengen countries must take a PCR test on day 7 regardless of vaccination status. Unvaccinated travellers from quot;very high-riskquot; EU/Schengen countries must take a PCR test on day 7. Coronalert is an optional contact tracing app. Unvaccinated travellers arriving from all red zone countries must quarantine for up to 10 days. The quarantine period can be cut short by receiving a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken on day 7. Travellers arriving from green and orange countries are exempt from quarantine. Visitors whose stay abroad was less than 48 hours or whose stay in Belgium is shorter than 48 hours are exempt from mandatory testing and quarantine. Face masks must be worn in all public spaces including public transport. Children under the age of 12 are exempt. The requirement to wear face masks also applies to Brussels Airlines Thalys and Eurostar passengers. In Brussels wearing face masks is also mandatory in certain outdoor spaces including rue Neuve and outdoor markets. Face masks are not required in spaces where a COVID-19 health pass is required for entry except hospitals. While a ban on exiting the country was lifted travel outside the European Union (EU) is discouraged. From 1 September the last phase of the easing of COVID-19 restrictions on social contacts and non-essential businesses is in effect; this new phase will not severely impact Brussels where many of the measures are being maintained particularly in the hotel and catering sector due to a low vaccination rate. Health officials in Belgium confirmed on 4 February 2020 that a Belgian national repatriated from the epicentre of the outbreak in China tested positive for the virus. Following multiple waves of COVID-19 cases authorities lifted the countrywide nightly curfew in May 2021 and gradually eased other restrictions on travel social contact and non-essential establishments.
Bulgaria
Oct 19 2021 Officials tightened restrictions for events and businesses from 7 September to 31 October following an increase in COVID-19 cases. Starting 21 October a COVID-19 certificate must be presented for indoor activities. Starting 14 October indoor spaces are limited to 30 percent capacity unless they are only accessible to those with a negative PCR test or proof of vaccination against COVID-19. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: Effective 21 October proof of a negative test recovery or vaccination against COVID-19 must be presented for indoor activities including entry to restaurants hotels fitness centres shopping centres and non-essential shops that are larger than 300 sq. metres (3229 sq. feet). Covid Pass availability: Proof of vaccination recovery or a recent negative test for COVID-19 will be accepted. The negative test must be obtained from a PCR test that was performed within 72 hours. Prime Minister Boyko Borissov and three cabinet ministers tested positive for COVID-19 on 25 October 2020. Passenger flights are operating at Sofia Airport (SOF/LBSF). Countries are colour-coded green orange or red for entry requirements. The list of countries by colour code will be updated on Mondays and take effect the next day. Non-essential travel is not permitted from high COVID-19 risk red countries. Nationals permanent residents and long-term residents of Bulgaria and their family members are exempt from the entry ban. Nationals of the European Union (EU) the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland entering from EU/EEA/Switzerland are also exempt. Healthcare workers officials heads of state and diplomatic services and others making essential travel are exempt. Travellers arriving from green or orange countries must present an EU Digital COVID Certificate or an equivalent document confirming a negative test result recovery or vaccination against COVID-19. Travellers who arrive from orange countries without documentation will be denied entry. Travellers arriving from green countries without documentation must take a COVID-19 test within 24 hours of arrival or quarantine for up to 10 days. Before travel Arriving travellers must present proof of a negative test recovery or vaccination against COVID-19. PCR tests performed within 72 hours before entry and antigen tests performed within 48 hours before entry will be accepted. Travellers from the Czech Republic and Romania are exempt from testing provided they hold Bulgarian citizenship or permanent/long-term resident status in Bulgaria. Transport workers cross-border commuters and transiting travellers are also exempt. Students living in Greece North Macedonia Romania Serbia and Turkey travelling daily or at least once a week for study purposes are also exempt (reciprocal agreement). ViruSafe (mhealth-hub.org/virusafe) is an optional mobile app for contact tracing available on Android and iOS devices. Travellers who arrive from orange countries without an EU Digital COVID Certificate or equivalent documentation must quarantine for 10 days. Travellers who arrive from green countries without documentation must take a COVID-19 test within 24 hours or quarantine for 10 days. Masks must be worn in indoor spaces as well as crowded outdoor areas when a 1.5-metre minimum distance cannot be maintained. Public health officials confirmed the first cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in two patients from Pleven and Gabrovo. The country has low COVID-19 vaccination rates compared to other European Union (EU) member states and infection rates are above the EU average. A state of emergency is in effect until 30 November.
Croatia
Oct 19 2021 Croatia Airlines is predominantly operating international flights between Zagreb Airport (ZAG/LDZA) and major European hubs including Amsterdam Frankfurt Munich Paris and Rome. Austrian KLM Lufthansa Air Serbia and several other airlines are also operating flights to and from the country. International flights are available at Dubrovnik (DBV/LDDU) and Split (SPU/LDSP) airports. Borders are open to Croatian nationals as well as nationals and residents from other European Union (EU)/European Economic Area (EEA) member states Andorra Monaco San Marino and Vatican City. The EU Digital COVID Certificate or another proof of a negative test recovery or vaccination against COVID-19 must be presented. While leisure travel from third countries is permitted non-EU tourists must present proof of accommodation as well as proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test vaccination or recovery. Travellers arrivng from Australia Bahrain Canada Chile Hong Kong Jordan Kuwait Macau New Zealand Qatar Rwanda Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Taiwan Ukraine the United Arab Emirates or Uruguay are exempt from the requirement to present proof confirming the purpose of their travel but must provide valid COVID-19 documentation. Health care workers cross-border workers transport workers diplomatic personnel transiting passengers and students as well as persons travelling for an urgent personal reason are permitted entry. Remote workers employed by a company outside Croatia are also permitted entry with prior approval by authorities. Before travel Arriving travellers must present an EU Digital COVID Certificate or another proof of a negative test recovery or vaccination against COVID-19. The negative test result must have been obtained from a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) no older than 72 hours or an antigen test result no older than 48 hours before arrival. EU cross-border workers healthcare workers students seafarers drivers transporting goods and other workers in the transport sector diplomats military personnel people travelling for compelling family business or health reasons and transiting travellers leaving the country within 12 hours are exempt from the requirement to present the EU Digital COVID Certificate. Non-EU travellers who do not present COVID-19 documentation will be subject to quarantine upon arrival. Travellers arriving from Brazil must present a negative PCR test no older than 72 hours or an antigen test no older than 48 hours regardless of vaccination or recovery from the virus. Travellers arriving from South Africa or Tanzania must present a negative PCR test that was taken wtihin 72 hours before arrival. No other test type will be accepted. Upon arrival Travellers without proof of testing vaccination or prior infection must take a COVID-19 test immediately upon entry at their own expense. Travellers must self-quarantine until the test result becomes available. Stop COVID-19 is an optional contact tracing app. Travellers arriving from South Africa or Tanzania must quarantine for 14 days in addition to presenting a negative COVID-19 test result. Travellers who fail to present proof of negative COVID-19 test prior infection or vaccination are required to self-quarantine for up to 10 days until they receive a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken after entry. Wearing face masks is mandatory on public transport and indoors as well as crowded open spaces where maintaining a 1.5-metre distance is difficult or not possible. Croatia Airlines passengers must wear surgical masks or face masks of the FFP2 KN95 or N95 standard. There are no special requirements to exit the country. Sanitary measures limit the capacity of non-essential retail and size of gatherings. Some venues and events are only accessible with a COVID-19 certificate. Hospitality establishments and bakeries must close by 00:00 daily. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: A COVID-19 health pass is required for access to large events with more than 100 people in attendance as well as nightclubs and indoor dining. Covid Pass availability: The health pass is available to those who can prove vaccination recovery or a negative test for COVID-19 in one of the three following ways: a COVID-19 vaccine a positive PCR or antigen test issued between 11 days-6 months or a negative PCR test result that was obtained 72 hours prior to application or negative antigen result obtained 48 hours prior to application. The pass can be obtained from the COVIDGO app for iOS devices play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=hr.akd.dzp and Android devices apps.apple.com/us/app/covidgo/id1572794000. Health authorities confirmed the first case of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the country on 25 February 2020 after a patient at a Zagreb hospital who had returned from Milan Italy tested positive for the virus. While most sanitary measures have been relaxed hundreds of new cases continue to be reported daily in October 2021.
Denmark
Oct 19 2021 Denmarks main airline Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) is operating flights to destinations in Scandinavia and major hubs in Europe and the United States (US). Most domestic restrictions were lifted on 10 September. International travel restrictions are set to be eased on 25 October. Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) passengers must wear masks during flights unless they are travelling within Denmark Sweden and Norway. Entry requirements are based on a colour-coded system under which countries are classified as green yellow orange or red depending on the level of COVID-19 risk. Travellers from green and yellow countries and regions are permitted entry regardless of the purpose of their travel. All EU countries are yellow or green while Australia Canada Chile Hong Kong Jordan Kuwait Macau New Zealand Qatar Rwanda Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Taiwan Ukraine and Uruguay are yellow. Foreign travellers arriving from orange countries must be able to demonstrate that they have a worthy purpose of travel or be residents of an Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) member state with proof of vaccination. Travellers considered to have a worthy purpose include those who have a job in Denmark those attending a critical business meeting in the country seafarers aircraft crew members and diplomatic personnel. Entry is also permitted for select private reasons including partners or parents of a Danish resident primary caregivers of a minor in Denmark and those continuing treatment at a medical facility. Starting 25 October travel from all countries will be permitted regardless of purpose. Before travel Non-resident foreign nationals must present valid COVID-19 documentation. The test must be a PCR test issued within 72 hours of departure or an antigen test issued within 48 hours. The test certificate must be issued in a Scandinavian language German English French Spanish or Italian. EU arrivals can present the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC) as proof of recovery or vaccination instead of testing. Travellers arriving from quot;yellowquot; non-EU countries or quot;orangequot; OECD countries must present proof of vaccination or a negative test. Transiting passengers must remain in the transit area to be exempt from testing. Non-resident foreign nationals must present a negative PCR test issued within 72 hours of departure or an antigen test issued within 48 hours. The test certificate must be issued in a Scandinavian language German English French Spanish or Italian. Transiting passengers must remain in the transit area to be exempt from testing. Upon arrival Travellers arriving by air must take a rapid test before leaving the airport. Travellers arriving by land or sea must take a rapid test or a PCR test no later than 24 hours after arrival. Travellers from quot;greenquot; countries as well as travellers with valid proof of recovery or vaccination are exempt from testing upon arrival. Starting 25 October unvaccinated travellers must be tested for COVID-19 within 24 hours of arrival. Smitte Stop (smittestop.dk/) is an optional contact tracing app. Travellers without valid proof of vaccination or recovery are required to self-isolate for up to 10 days upon arrival excluding arrivals from green and yellow countries. Business travellers arriving from orange countries are exempt. The quarantine period can be shortened with confirmation of a negative PCR test that can be taken no earlier than day 4 after entry. Health authorities confirmed the first case of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the country on 27 February 2020 after a patient who returned from Italy tested positive for the virus. In September 2021 the country lifted most COVID-19 measures. Restrictions on international travel remain in effect.
Estonia
Oct 20 2021 Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: A COVID-19 health pass is mandatory for certain activities and venues including indoor dining sporting events cultural establishments and public events. Covid Pass availability: The pass is available for people with proof of a negative test recovery or vaccination against COVID-19. The COVID-19 test must be a rapid antigen test no older than 48 hours or a PCR test no older than 72 hours. The pass can be obtained here www.tehik.ee/el-covid-toendite-loomise-juhend. Starting 25 October negative test results are no longer valid for participation in indoor activities. A 10-day self-quarantine is mandatory for unvaccinated arrivals from non-EU countries (excluding lower COVID-19 risk countries where the incidence rate is below 75 cases) and high-risk EU countries where the 14-day COVID-19 incidence rate exceeds 200 cases per 100000 inhabitants. The list of countries subject to quarantine will be updated weekly by health officials. A second COVID-19 test can be taken after arrival to end quarantine early provided that the results of both tests are negative. The second test cannot be taken earlier than six days after the first test. Day travellers whose stay in Estonia does not exceed 24 hours are exempt from quarantine. Attending large events and entering some public venues require a COVID-19 health certificate. Unvaccinated non-European Union (EU) nationals and residents cannot enter the country for non-essential travel. Residents of lower COVID-19 risk countries - Australia Bahrain Canada Chile Jordan Kuwait New Zealand Rwanda Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Taiwan Ukraine United Arab Emirates and Uruguay - are exempt. Entry for work and study is permitted. People transporting goods and raw materials people involved in international freight or passenger transport people performing technical tasks for companies in Estonia healthcare workers diplomats people arriving for the purpose of international military cooperation and people with special permission to enter are also exempt from the countrys entry ban. Nationals residents and long-stay visa holders of EU member states Schengen Area countries the United Kingdom Andorra Monaco San Marino and Vatican City and their family members are permitted entry. With the exception of Estonian residents and their family members foreign nationals who show symptoms of COVID-19 will be denied entry. Before travel EU arrivals who arrive from countries where the incidence rate exceeds 75 cases per 100000 inhabitants must present a COVID-19 certificate (the EU Digital COVID Certificate or other proof of a negative test recovery or vaccination) or be tested at the border. The test must be a PCR test no older than 72 hours or an antigen test no older than 48 hours. Non-EU arrivals who arrive from countries where the COVID-19 incidence rate exceeds 75 cases per 100000 inhabitants must present a pre-departure test or be tested at the border unless they present proof of vaccination or recovery from a prior infection. Travellers arriving from other non-EU countries must present proof of full vaccination or a negative pre-departure test result. The testing requirement also applies to those who have recovered from COVID-19. Workers transporting goods and raw materials workers involved in international freight and passenger transport workers performing technological work for a company operating in Estonia health care providers diplomats military personnel and people with special entry permits arealso exempt from testing. After arrival Travellers who are subject to quarantine upon arrival can take a second COVID-19 test no earlier than the sixth day after the first test. Mandatory quarantine will end if the results of both tests are negative. The second test can be arranged by calling 678 0000. Further details on testing are available on website koroonatestimine.ee/. Non-EU nationals who travel to Estonia for work or study must take a second COVID-19 test no earlier than six days after the first test. International flights are predominantly operating through Tallinn Airport (TLL/EETN). HOIA (www.hoia.me/en/) is a voluntary mobile app for contact tracing available on Android and iOS devices. A face mask must be worn on public transport and inside shops pharmacies libraries bank offices and all other public venues where visitors are not required to present their COVID-19 certificates. Children below the age of 12 are exempt from this rule. The Estonian Health Board confirmed the countrys first novel coronavirus (COVID-19) case in February 2020 after an Iranian national who arrived in the country tested positive for the virus. The country saw an increase in COVID-19 cases despite a vaccination campaign prompting officials to tighten sanitary measures in August 2021.
France
Oct 20 2021 A COVID-19 health pass is mandatory for long-distance journeys on buses planes and trains including TGV Intercity trains and long-distance coaches. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: A COVID-19 health pass (pass sanitaire) is required for access to large events with more than 1000 people in the audience as well as cultural and leisure spaces with more than 50 people. The requirement to present a health pass also applies to cafes restaurants and long-distance travel. In departments where the COVID-19 incidence rate exceeds 200 cases per 100000 inhabitants the health pass can be required for entering large shopping centres that are more than 20000 sq metres in size. Covid Pass availability: The health pass is available to those who can prove vaccination recovery or a negative test for COVID-19 in one of the three following ways: a COVID-19 vaccine administered in the European Union (EU) a positive PCR or antigen test issued between 11 days-6 months or a negative PCR antigen or supervised self-test result that was obtained 72 hours prior to application. In Corsica self-tests are not accepted for the health pass. The pass can be obtained from the TousAntiCovid app. COVID-19 tests are free until mid-October. Non-EU travellers can obtain a health pass by taking a PCR test in France or requesting it by email with a completed application and copies of their passport vaccination certificate and travel ticket. The vaccine must be recognised by the European Medicines Agency (EMA). Further details are available on the French government website (www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/coming-to-france/coronavirus-advice-for-foreign-nationals-in-france/coronavirus-statements/article/applying-for-a-covid-certificate-if-you-were-vaccinated-abroad-procedure-for). French nationals and residents who have been vaccinated in a non-EU country except Andorra Iceland Liechtenstein Monaco Norway the United Kingdom (UK) and Switzerland can request a health pass online provided that the vaccine is recognised by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) (www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/le-ministere-et-son-reseau/actualites-du-ministere/informations-coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-declarations-et-communiques/article/communique-passe-sanitaire-pour-les-francais-de-l-etranger-et-leurs-ayants). Multiple clashes with police officers occurred during the first lockdown period in urban hubs primarily communes on the outskirts of Paris including Villeneuve-la-Garenne Clichy Rueil-Malmaison Asnieres Nanterre Meudon Clamart and Gennevilliers. Health care workers have held protests to demand greater protection and higher compensation while demonstrations have also been held over the economic impact of the pandemic. On 25 September 2020 workers in the hospitality sector in Marseille held a rally against the governments decision to close bars and restaurants in the city. Renewed protest against COVID-19 restrictions were held in late October 2020 in Paris Toulouse Montpellier and Nantes. In July and August 2021 demonstrations were held in protest of government plans to expand the mandatory use of the COVID-19 health pass in public spaces. These demonstrations have the potential to escalate to widespread unrest and disruptive strike actions unless authorities are able to successfully negotiate with workers on their demands. On 17 December 2020 President Emmanuel Macron tested positive for COVID-19. Several French Spanish and European Union Council officials went into self-isolation following the positive result. Major hubs are open. Air France and other carriers are operating flights with reduced capacity. Vaccinated travellers from all countries are permitted entry regardless of their purpose of travel. The country is open to travel from green countries - European Union (EU) member states Andorra Iceland Liechtenstein Monaco Norway San Marino Switzerland and the Vatican as well as Australia Bahrain Brunei Canada Chile Comoros Islands Qatar Kuwait Rwanda Senegal Hong Kong Japan Jordan Lebanon New Zealand North Macedonia Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Taiwan Ukraine Uruguay and Vanuatu. Travellers from green countries are permitted entry regardless of their purpose of travel or vaccination status. Non-essential travel is not permitted for unvaccinated travellers from orange countries - all other countries that are not green or red. Unvaccinated travellers from orange countries must continue to demonstrate a compelling reason for travel to be permitted entry. Travellers considered to have a compelling reason include French nationals and residents EU nationals returning to their residence or country of their nationality talent passport long-stay visa holders transiting travellers health workers and researchers involved in the fight against COVID-19 workers in the land sea and air transport sector and transport service providers. Unvaccinated foreign nationals are not permitted entry from high COVID-19 risk red countries - Afghanistan Brazil Costa Rica Cuba Georgia Iran Maldives Pakistan Russia Seychelles Suriname and Turkey - unless they have compelling reasons for travel. Residents of France family members of French nationals transiting travellers workers in the land sea and air transport sector transport service providers and others considered to have pressing grounds for travel will continue to be permitted entry regardless of their vaccination status. Before travel Unvaccinated travellers from quot;greenquot; countries must present a negative PCR or antigen test that was taken within 72 hours before departure. Those who reside within 30km of the French border are exempt provided that the duration of their travel does not exceed 24 hours. Hauliers and those who are making work-related trips and cannot take COVID-19 tests due to the frequent or urgent nature of their travel are also exempt. Unvaccinated travellers arriving from Cyprus Greece the Netherlands Spain Portugal or Malta must present a negative PCR or antigen test that was taken within 24 hours before boarding. Transiting air passengers whose final destination requires a negative COVID-19 test for entry must be tested before connecting through France. Unvaccinated travellers from quot;orangequot; countries must present a negative PCR test no older than 72 hours or an antigen test no older than 48 hours. Unvaccinated travellers from the United Kingdom (UK) must present a negative PCR test no older than 24 hours before boarding. Unvaccinated travellers arriving from quot;redquot; countries must present a negative PCR or antigen test result no older than 48 hours at the time of boarding. Upon arrival Unvaccinated travellers arriving from red countries must take an additional COVID-19 test at the airport. Unvaccinated travellers from orange countries can also be subject to COVID-19 testing upon arrival. Tous Anti-Covid is an optional mobile app for contact tracing. Unvaccinated travellers from orange countries must self-quarantine for seven days. Unvaccinated travellers arriving from red countries must undergo a supervised quarantine for 10 days. Before boarding travellers must present to their carrier a proof of address where they plan to undergo quarantine; airlines can refuse boarding to passengers deemed to have insufficient documentation. All vaccinated travellers arriving from green orange and red countries are exempt from quarantine. A face mask must be worn on public transport and other indoor public spaces. Face masks are not required in spaces where a COVID-19 health pass is required for entry although local authorities can set different measures. Face masks are not required in outdoor spaces unless social distancing is not possible. Local authorities can require face masks to be worn at markets beaches parks and other outdoor spaces depending on the health situation in the area. Face masks must be worn inflight. A disposable surgical-type mask must be worn when onboard planes; passengers wearing reusable face masks have been denied boarding. Air France passengers are asked to wear a FFP1 FFP2 FFP3 or surgical mask from the moment they arrive at the airport and for the duration of the flight. Under the fourth and final step of reopening restrictions on large events were relaxed and local authorities were given power to decide COVID-19 measures on a wider range of issues. A COVID-19 health pass is required for some public venues and long-distance travel. All travel to red countries is strongly discouraged. Unvaccinated travellers to orange and red countries must provide a compelling reason for travel (www.interieur.gouv.fr/Actualites/L-actu-du-Ministere/Certificate-of-international-travel). Travel to ones country of origin or residence will continue to be permitted. Health officials confirmed on 24 January 2020 that three cases of COVID-19 were detected in Paris and Bordeaux the first cases to be confirmed in the European Union (EU). The outbreak has resulted in one of the highest number of deaths in Europe and prompted three nationwide lockdowns. While officials declared in July 2021 that the country entered a fourth wave of the pandemic the number of new cases has steadily declined since August.
Germany
Oct 19 2021 A face mask must be worn in enclosed public spaces. Inside shops and on public transport the mask must be a surgical mask or of FFP2 KN95 or N95-standard. In Berlin FFP2-standard masks must be worn on public transport inside taxis and at train stations airports and ferry terminals. In Frankfurt surgical masks or masks that are of FFP2 KN95 N95-standard must be worn inside buildings that are accessible to the public shops leisure facilities and public transport. Lufthansa passengers are required to wear medical masks or FFP2- FFP3- KN95- or N95-standard masks during boarding on board and when leaving the aircraft. Some public venues and large events are only accessible with proof of a negative COVID-19 test recovery or vaccination against the virus. Some states also permit businesses and event organisers to opt for a 2G rule under which access is only permitted with proof of recovery or vaccination against the virus. Restrictions on international travel remain in effect with more lenient measures applying to travellers who have been vaccinated against COVID-19 or recovered from a prior infection. Non-essential travel is not permitted from most countries outside the European Union (EU) and the Schengen Area. Residents of Australia Bahrain Canada Chile Hong Kong Jordan Kuwait Macau New Zealand Qatar Rwanda Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Taiwan United Arab Emirates and Uruguay long-term residents and family members of EU nationals are exempt. Fully vaccinated travellers are also permitted entry. Other non-EU travellers will be permitted entry if they serve an important role or if there is an urgent need to travel. Those considered to have an urgent need to travel include healthcare workers skilled foreign workers transport workers people entering for humanitarian reasons diplomatic personnel and transiting travellers. Borders are open with other EU and Schengen Area countries. Before travel Arriving travellers must present proof of a negative test recovery or vaccination against COVID-19 upon arrival. Accepted test types are a nucleic acid amplification test (PCR TMA or LAMP) taken within 72 hours before entry or an antigen test taken within 48 hours. Transiting passengers passing through Germany without a stopover and transport personnel are also exempt. Pre-departure COVID-19 testing is mandatory for travel from 39;virus variant areas39; regardless of recovery or vaccination status. As of October 2021 there are no countries or territories considered 39;virus variant areas39;. Cross-border commuters and day travellers who arrive by air or from 39;high-risk areas39; or 39;virus variant areas39; must provide proof of vaccination recovery or a negative test for COVID-19. Those without proof of vaccination or recovery must present a negative test twice a week. Travellers who stayed in a high-risk area in the last 10 days before arrival must self-quarantine for up to 10 days unless they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or recovered from the virus. Travellers without proof of vaccination or recovery can shorten quarantine with a negative COVID-19 test. The test cannot be taken before five days after entry. Travellers who arrive from a virus variant area must self-quarantine for 14 days regardless of vaccination or recovery from the virus. The quarantine period cannot be shortened unless the Robert Koch Institute has determined the COVID-19 vaccine to be effective in the country visited. As of October 2021 there are no virus variant areas. This list of high-risk areas and virus variant areas is announced on Fridays on the Robert Koch Institute website. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: Under the 3G rule proof of a negative test recovery or vaccination against COVID-19 is required for access to cultural or sporting events indoor dining close contact services and accommodation facilities across the country. Some states - including Berlin Brandenburg Hamburg Hesse and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania - permit event organisers and businesses to opt for a 2G rule under which only customers with only proof of recovery or vaccination are permitted access. Covid Pass availability: Proof of vaccination recovery or a negative test with a QR code will be accepted. COVID-19 certificates can be uploaded to the Corona-Warn-App or CovPass mobile apps and presented as an electronic pass. A paper yellow book is also generally accepted as proof of vaccination except in Berlin where certificates must be digitally verifiable. Vaccination certificates must show that at least 14 days have passed since the final dose. Proof of recovery must show that between 28-180 days have passed since a positive PCR test result. The test must be a rapid antigen test no older than 24 hours or a PCR test no older than 48 hours. Pharmacies issuing COVID-19 certificates can be found online (www.mein-apothekenmanager.de/). Flights are predominantly operating to European destinations. Long-haul Lufthansa flights are primarily operating through Frankfurt Airport (FRA/EDDF). Corona-Warn-App (www.coronawarn.app/en/) is a voluntary mobile app for contact tracing. Travel to high-risk areas and virus variant areas is discouraged. Germany confirmed its first COVID-19 case on 28 January 2020 after a man from Starnberg Bavaria tested positive for the virus. While most measures on social contact businesses and domestic tourism have been eased health officials declared in August 2021 that the country has entered a fourth wave of the COVID-19 outbreak following the spread of the delta virus variant. Both far-left and far-right groups have held rallies in Berlin since April to demand the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions. On 1 August 2020 over 40 police officers were injured in clashes that broke out during a large-scale rally against COVID-19-related restrictions at Berlins Brandenburg Gate. On 29 August 2020 far-right demonstrators were dispersed and detained following an attempt to storm the capitals Reichstag building during a rally against government restrictions. On 18 November 2020 at least 190 people were arrested and nine police officers were injured amid clashes at a protest against COVID-19 restrictions in Berlin. Other COVID-19-related protests have taken place in Dresden Chemnitz Cologne Hamburg Prenzlau Aachen Stuttgart Dusseldorf Munich Frankfurt Leipzig and other cities.
Greece
Oct 20 2021 From 9 October curfews in Thessaloniki Halkidiki Kilkis and Larissa Drama Imathia Kastoria Kavala Pella Pieria and Xanthi regional units were lifted. Travel to and from the countrys islands requires presenting a COVID-19 vaccination certificate with at least 14 days since the second dose proof of recovery issued between 2-9 months before travel or a negative PCR test result no older than 72 hour or a rapid antigen test no older than 48 hours. From 13 September all unvaccinated individuals travelling by plane boat bus or train must present a rapid antigen test no older than 48 hours before departure; tests will cost EUR10 (USD1175). Hospitality establishments are permitted to provide outdoor service. Restaurants bars and nightlife establishments are permitted to provide service to seated guests only. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: Individuals must present either a proof of vaccination recent recovery from COVID-19 or a negative PCR test result issued within 72 hours to visit public venues including exhibitions and conferences. Only those with proof of vaccination or recovery from COVID-19 are permitted to enter indoor cafes restaurants clubs and sports venues. Customers without COVID-19 certificates must present a negative PCR test that was taken within 48 hours for entry to cinemas theaters museums and gyms. Unvaccinated university students must take COVID-19 tests twice a week. Rapid tests will cost 10EUR. Effective 9 October standing dancing and playing music will be allowed nationwide in hospitality establishments if all patrons are vaccinated. Covid Pass availability: Nationals can access their vaccination certificate here www.gov.gr/ipiresies/ugeia-kai-pronoia/koronoios-covid-19/pistopoietiko-emboliasmou or their negative test result here www.gov.gr/ipiresies/ugeia-kai-pronoia/koronoios-covid-19/bebaiose-arnetikou-diagnostikou-elegkhou-koronoiou-covid-19 Foreign travellers must have a vaccination certificate or a negative test issued in English German French Italian Spanish or Russian. Police officers fired riot control agents to disperse demonstrators who rallied on Nea Smyrni Square in Athens on 7 March to protest police violence following earlier confrontations between officers and bystanders over the enforcement of COVID-19 social distancing restrictions. Protests have continued in other cities over the restrictions including Thessaloniki. International flights are available at Athens (ATH/LGAV) and other airports across the country. Travellers from the European Union (EU) and the Schengen Area as well as Albania Andorra Armenia Australia Azerbaijan Bahrain Belarus Bosnia-Herzegovina Brunei Canada China Israel Japan Jordan Kosovo Kuwait Lebanon Moldova Monaco Montenegro New Zealand North Macedonia Qatar Russia San Marino Saudi Arabia Serbia Singapore South Korea Taiwan Turkey Ukraine United Arab Emirates (UAE) United Kingdom (UK) United States (US) and the Vatican are permitted entry without quarantine provided that they present proof of a negative test full vaccination or recovery from COVID-19. Entry from other countries is only permitted for health professionals and others making essential travel. Entry through land borders is possible through Promachonas Ormenio Evzonoi Nymfaia Niki Doirani Kristallopigi Kipi Kakavia Kastanies and Exohi 24 hours a day. Cruises and yachts are permitted while maritime links with Turkey remain restricted. Before travel Before travel Arriving travellers from all countries must present a negative PCR test that was taken within 72 hours before arrival or a rapid antigen test no older than 48 hours before arrival unless they have proof of vaccination or recovery from COVID-19. All travellers from Russia regardless of their vaccination status must present a negative PCR test that was taken within 72 hours or a rapid antigen test no older than 48 hours before arrival. Upon arrival Unvaccinated travellers from Egypt Albania Argentina Bulgaria Brazil Georgia Cuba the United Arab Emirates India China Libya Morocco North Macedonia Pakistan Russia and Turkey must undergo a rapid antigen test upon arrival at the airport; travellers who test positive must take a PCR test and will receive further instructions. Random rapid antigen testing will be carried out at ports of entry; travellers who test positive must quarantine. Those who refuse health checks can be denied entry. Those who test positive at the country39;s land borders can be denied entry as well. There is no national contact tracing app. Travellers from the European Union (EU) and the Schengen Area as well as the United States (US) United Kingdom (UK) the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Serbia Israel Australia New Zealand South Korea Singapore North Macedonia Canada Belarus Bahrain Qatar China Kuwait Turkey Ukraine Saudi Arabia Russia Bosnia-Herzegovina Montenegro Japan Albania Lebanon Armenia Azerbaijan Brunei and Moldova Andorra Jordan Kosovo Monaco San Marino Taiwan and The Vatican are exempt from quarantine provided that they present proof of a negative COVID-19 test result full vaccination or recovery from the virus. Those who test positive for COVID-19 during random testing at the border must quarantine at a designated hotel for up to 10 days regardless of the country of departure. Vaccinated travellers who test positive must quarantine for seven days. Face masks must be worn in indoor spaces. Mask-wearing is mandatory in crowded public places; a fine of up to EUR300 (USD354) can be imposed for non-compliance. There are no special requirements to exit the country with the exception of a Passenger Locator Form that all international travellers must complete. High COVID-19 incidence areas are subject to stricter measures including a nightly curfew until 8 October. All curfew measures will be lifted on 9 October while social distancing measures remain in place. Health officials confirmed on 26 February 2020 that the first case of COVID-19 was detected in a patient in Thessaloniki who had recently returned from northern Italy. Following a countrywide lockdown authorities began lifting restrictions in stages in May 2020 and allowed international travel to resume. Most COVID-19 lockdown measures were lifted on 14 May 2021; the country reopened to vaccinated travellers from most countries in a bit to resume tourism.
Hungary
Oct 20 2021 Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: Large public events are only accessible to immunity certificate holders. Covid Pass availability: The EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC) and certificates recognised by Hungarian authorities will be accepted. Residents vaccinated in Hungary will receive their certificate without a separate application for the certificate. On 30 March 2020 parliament voted to allow Prime Minister Viktor Orban to rule by decree. The legislation was rescinded on 20 June 2020 when the state of emergency expired. Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD/LHBP) is open. Wizz Air operates flights to and from dozens of routes including nearby cities tourist destinations and major hubs in Europe. Flights operated by LOT Polish Airlines and several other air carriers are also available. Limited long-distance service is operating. Travel by land or water is permitted without restrictions. EU passengers travelling by air must present the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC). Non-EU travellers are permitted entry with valid COVID-19 documentation. Travellers with proof of recovery are permitted entry from any country. Travellers with foreign vaccination certificates that are recognised by Hungarian authorities are also permitted entry. PCR tests must be taken in Albania Australia Azerbaijan Bahrain Canada Chile China Israel Japan Kazakhstan Kyrgyzstan Mexico Montenegro New Zealand North Macedonia Russia Serbia South Korea Turkey United Arab Emirates (UAE) United Kingdom (UK) United States (US) or Uzbekistan to be considered valid. Permanent residents residency permit holders long-stay visa holders business travellers transiting passengers and family members of Hungarian nationals and permanent residents are also exempt from the countrys entry ban. Other travellers seeking to enter must submit a leniency application on the national police website. Foreign nationals who are travelling to attend cultural or sporting events must present a negative COVID-19 test and a ticket for the event and leave the country within 72 hours of entry. Arriving travellers without valid proof of recovery or vaccination must quarantine at home or at a government-designated facility for up to 10 days unless they are able to present two certificates of negative PCR tests that are performed in Hungary within five days and at least 48 hours apart from each other; test results will be also accepted if the first test was performed in the United States or Canada. Local authorities will issue an exemption to end quarantine early upon receipt of negative test results. Travellers with proof of recovery EUDCC holders and vaccinated travellers from countries that have an agreement with Hungary for mutual recognition of immunity certificates are exempt from quarantine. Travellers whose PCR tests are accepted for entry are also exempt. Face masks are not required in public spaces with the exception of hospitals. Non-essential travel to most non-EU countries is discouraged. While most distancing measures are no longer in effect a COVID-19 certificate is required to attend large events. Before travel EU arrivals can present an EU Digital COVID Certificate as proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival recovery or vaccination against the virus. A negative PCR test issued in Albania Australia Azerbaijan Bahrain Canada Chile China Israel Japan Kazakhstan Kyrgyzstan Mexico Montenegro New Zealand North Macedonia Russia Serbia South Korea Turkey United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States or Uzbekistan is accepted for entry provided that the test was performed within 72 hours of arrival. Travel by land or water is permitted without testing. Workers crossing the borders in freight traffic holders of a diplomatic passport or seamen39;s service book and those travelling for an official visit are exempt. Travellers with proof of recovery are exempt from testing. Vaccinated travellers who arrive from countries that have an agreement with Hungary for mutual recognition of immunity certificates are also exempt. Foreign nationals entering Hungary for a sporting or cultural event must present a negative PCR test that was performed within three days before entry and undergo medical screening at the border. Transiting travellers will be subject to a medical examination and required to leave Hungary within 24 hours of entry. After arrival Travellers who are subject to quarantine upon arrival can take two PCR tests within five days of entry in Hungary to end quarantine early. The two tests must have been taken at least 48 hours apart. The first test will be also accepted if it was performed in a Schengen Area country the United States or Canada. Those who opt to be tested must do so at their own expense and notify local health authorities for permission to leave quarantine for testing. On 4 March 2020 public health officials confirmed the first cases of COVID-19 in the country after two Iranian students tested positive for the virus in Budapest. Following the launch of a nationwide vaccination campaign infection rates have since significantly dropped and most domestic restrictions were lifted.
Ireland
Oct 19 2021 Dublin Airport (DUB/EIDW) and other airports are open to international flights. Wearing a face covering is mandatory on public transport and indoor spaces including shops shopping centres and close contact services. Departing travellers are advised to follow the governments travel advice for the country of their destination. Indoor venues can accommodate up to 60 percent capacity for those who are vaccinated and outdoor venues can have up to 75 percent capacity. Most remaining measures are expected to be lifted on 22 October. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: Until 22 October indoor dining is open to guests who are vaccinated or recovered from the virus within the last six months. Up to six adults are permitted per table. Covid Pass availability: The EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC) the HSE COVID-19 Vaccination Record or an equivalent COVID-19 certificate will be accepted. Far-right groups have repeatedly protested in Dublin to protest lockdown measures where clashes with counter-demonstrators erupted outside The Custom House on 12 September 2020 and Leinster House on 12 October 2020. Some 2500 Gardai officials were deployed in Dublin and nationwide with checkpoints in place on arterial roads and public transport to prevent non-essential travel and anti-lockdown protests on St. Patricks Day on 17 March. Most remaining measures are set to be lifted on 22 October. While Ireland is open to international travel travellers arriving from countries other than European Union (EU) member states Iceland Lichtenstein Norway or Switzerland must present proof of recovery or vaccination against COVID-19 to be exempt from quarantine. Before travel Arriving travellers without proof of recovery or vaccination against COVID-19 are required to present a negative PCR test that was performed within 72 hours before arrival. Other COVID-19 test types are not accepted; those who hold an EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC) based on the result of their antigen test must take an additional PCR test prior to departure. Those who fail to present valid COVID-19 documentation will not be permitted to board their flight or ferry. Transiting air passengers must provide proof of a negative PCR test recovery or vaccination against COVID-19. The test must have been issued within 72 hours of travel; other test types are not accepted. After arrival Travellers undergoing self-quarantine can end quarantine by obtaining a negative result from a post-arrival PCR test. The test must be booked before arrival and cannot be taken earlier than five days. Testing can be booked online (www.gov.ie/en/service/f4ad3-book-a-covid-19-test-for-after-you-arrive-in-ireland/) and taken free of charge. COVID Tracker is a voluntary contact tracing app available on Android and iOS devices. Travellers who arrive from non-EU countries must present proof of recovery or vaccination against COVID-19 to be exempt from quarantine. Travellers wtihout proof of recovery or vaccination must self-quarantine for up to 14 days. The quarantine period can be cut short with a negative result obtained from a PCR test that can be taken on Day 5 or later. On 29 February 2020 public health officials confirmed the first case of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) infection in a patient who recently returned from northern Italy. While incidence rates remain high the country saw a fall in infection rates in October 2021. Following a gradual reopening officials are set to lift remaining restrictions on 22 October.
Italy
Oct 20 2021 Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: A COVID-19 green pass is required to attend sporting events and other large public events and to visit indoor venues including restaurants bars and cinemas. The pass must show receipt of at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose recovery from an infection within the last six months or a negative COVID-19 test taken within 48 hours. The pass is also mandatory for university students. A COVID-19 green pass is mandatory for inter-regional travel. The requirement will not apply to local transport intra-regional transport or ferry links on the Strait of Messina between Sicily and Calabria. Visitors to the Vatican are required to present a COVID-19 health pass. Starting 15 October the requirement to have a green pass applies to both public and private sector workers. Covid Pass availability: Residents can obtain the the EU Digital Covid Certificate (EUDCC) as proof of vaccination recovery or a negative test for COVID-19. The test cannot be older than 48 hours. The certificate is accepted in both paper and electronic format. COVID-19 certificates issued in Canada Israel Japan UK and US will be considered equivalent to the EUDCC. Entry is permitted from Category C countries - EU and Schengen Area countries Andorra Monaco and Israel - provided that arrivals only transited or stayed in countries where entry is permitted in the last 14 days. There are no restrictions on entry from San Marino and Vatican City (Category A). Travellers from Category D countries - Albania Armenia Australia Azerbaijan Bosnia and Herzegovina Brunei Canada Hong Kong Japan Jordan Kosovo Lebanon Macau Moldova Montenegro New Zealand North Macedonia Qatar Saudi Arabia Serbia Singapore South Korea Taiwan Ukraine the United Arab Emirates (UAE) the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States (US) - are also permitted entry. However Category D travellers without proof of vaccination and negative test for COVID-19 are generally subject to quarantine. Non-essential travel from other non-EU/Schengen countries (Category E) is banned. EU nationals and long-term residents and those seeking to travel for work absolute urgency health study or return home are exempt. Travellers who stayed or transited in Bangladesh India or Sri Lanka in the last 14 days are banned from entering Italy. Students parents of minor children residing in Italy partners of Italian residents those who had registered residence in Italy before 28 August and Italian nationals registered in the Registry of Italians Residing Abroad (AIRE) are exempt. Travellers who stayed or transited in Brazil in the last 14 days are banned from entering Italy. Students military personnel parents of minor children residing in Italy only those who had registered residence in Italy before 13 February are exempt and permitted entry. Arrivals from EU/Schengen countries Andorra Monaco and Israel (Category C) must present proof of a negative COVID-19 test recovery or vaccination to be exempt from quarantine. Category C arrivals who fail to present COVID-19 documentation must self-quarantine for five days. Travellers from non-EU countries that are in Category D must quarantine for five days. Travellers with proof of vaccination and a negative COVID-19 test are exempt from quarantine. Travellers from Canada Japan the United States and the United Kingdom can also present proof of recovery instead of proof of vaccination to be exempt from quarantine. Travellers from other non-EU countries (Category E) must quarantine for 10 days. Italian nationals returning from Aruba Dominican Republic Egypt the Maldives Mauritius and Seychelles with proof of recovery or vaccination against COVID-19 are exempt provided that they obtain negative test results before departure and return to Italy. Arrivals from San Marino and the Vatican are exempt from quarantine. Transport workers those who are travelling for proven work health or urgency and whose stay does not exceed 120 hours those whose transit by private vehicle does not exceed 36 hours cross-border workers and healthcare workers are also exempt from quarantine. Face masks must be worn on public transport and in indoor spaces as well as crowded outdoor areas. Leisure travel to countries in Category E - non-EU countries excluding Israel and Category D countries - is not permitted. Travelling to Category E countries is only permitted for work health study absolute urgency or return home. Italian nationals travelling for tourism to Aruba Dominican Republic Egypt (Sharm El Sheikh or Marsa Alam only) Maldives Mauritius and Seychelles are exempt from travel restrictions provided that they take a PCR or antigen test within 48 hours of departure from Italy present proof of recovery or vaccination and take another COVID-19 test within 48 hours of boarding their return flight to Italy. Travellers seeking to be exempt must travel through tour operators and stay at designated accommodation facilities during their time abroad. A COVID-19 green pass is required for access to certain public venues and services including long-distance travel. Regions are assessed white (lowest risk) yellow (lower risk) orange (medium risk) or red (high risk) depending on the severity of the epidemiological situation. All regions are white. Immuni (www.immuni.italia.it/) is a voluntary mobile app for contact tracing available on Android and iOS devices. Oct 18 2021 A COVID-19 green pass is mandatory for inter-regional travel. The requirement does not apply to local transport intra-regional transport or ferry links on the Strait of Messina between Sicily and Calabria. Multiple protests have been held against the governments COVID-19 policies - including lockdowns curfew order restrictions on the hospitality industry and mandatory use of the COVID-19 green pass in certain spaces - with some demonstrations spiralling into clashes with police. On 2 July 2020 private and public health care workers held a general strike to demand an increase in health funding and hiring and improvements to working conditions. International flights are available primarily to neighbouring countries and major hubs in Europe. Flights are also available on a limited number of long-distance routes including service to the United States. Before travel Travellers arriving the European Union (EU) the Schengen Area and Israel must present the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC) or equivalent proof of a negative test recovery or vaccination against COVID-19. The test must be a PCR or antigen test that was taken within 48 hours before entry. Non-EU arrivals - excluding UK travellers - must present a negative PCR or antigen test that was taken within 72 hours before arrival. UK arrivals must present a negative PCR or antigen test that was taken within 48 hours before arrival. Those who fail to present a negative test will be subject to quarantine regardless of recovery or vaccination status. Italian nationals returning from leisure travel in Aruba Dominican Republic Egypt (Sharm El Sheikh or Marsa Alam only) the Maldives Mauritius or Seychelles must be tested within 48 hours before departure to be exempt from quarantine upon arrival in Italy. Travellers arriving by 39;Covid tested39; flights from Canada the United Arab Emirates Japan and the United States must also take an antigen or PCR test within 48 hours before boarding. Upon arrival Travellers who are permitted to arrive from Bangladesh Brazil India or Sri Lanka must take a COVID-19 test within 48 hours of arrival in addition to testing before departure and at the end of the quarantine period. Travellers arriving by 39;Covid tested39; flights from Canada the United Arab Emirates Japan and the United States must also take an antigen or PCR test upon arrival. After arrival Travellers who are subject to quarantine upon arrival must take a COVID-19 test at the end of the quarantine period. One of the first countries in Europe to be hit by the outbreak Italy confirmed its first two COVID-19 cases on 30 January 2020 after two Chinese tourists on a cruise ship off Civitavecchia tested positive for the virus. In June 2021 all regions of the country were assessed to be low-risk (white) allowing most restrictions to be lifted. A state of emergency is in effect until 31 December.
Latvia
Oct 18 2021 A 20:00-05:00 curfew is expected to take effect on 21 October. Hospitality establishments must close by 21:00 local time. On 21 October-15 November non-essential businesses and events are expected to be suspended. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: Access to indoor dining public events and certain other public venues and services require COVID-19 certificates. Events and services are colour-coded green yellow or red by COVID-19 certificate requirements. Green spaces are only accessible with proof of recovery or vaccination and yellow spaces are accessible with proof of a negative test recovery or vaccination. Catering culture entertainment accommodation museums sports and close contact services are yellow. Non-essential shops operate in green mode. The requirement to present COVID-19 documentation does apply to public transport essential businesses and other red spaces. Covid Pass availability: Certificates are available to those who can prove vaccination recovery or a negative test for COVID-19. AirBaltic the countrys main airline resumed limited international flights from Riga International Airport (RIX/EVRA) to select European cities as well as some non-EU destinations. Before travel Travellers without proof of recovery or vaccination against COVID-19 must present a negative PCR test that was taken within 72 hours or an antigen test no older than 48 hours before arrival. The test result or certificate must be issued in English French German Russian or the language of the traveller39;s country of departure. Commuters who cross the border on a daily basis for work education or similar needs can provide proof of employment or education to be exempt from testing. Transiting passengers seafarers aircraft crew members and children under the age of 12 are exempt from testing. Upon arrival Unvaccinated travellers who return from a high-risk non-EU country must be tested for COVID-19 upon arrival at their own expense. Travellers arriving by land from Belarus and Russia at Grebneva Terehova Paternieki and Silene border crossing points will be tested at their own expense. Those entering as workers with permits issued by the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA) must be tested for COVID-19 within 24 hours after entry and may not perform work until the receipt of a negative result. Workers who stay in Latvia longer than five days must be tested again between the fifth and seventh day after entry. Apturi Covid (www.apturicovid.lv/en) is a voluntary mobile app for contact tracing available on Android and iOS devices. A face mask must be worn in all crowded spaces including public transport and shops. Travel abroad to a high COVID-19 risk country is discouraged. A three-month state of emergency is in effect until 11 January 2022. Non-essential venues are open with limited capacity. Large public events and certain venues are only accessible with a COVID-19 certificate. A lockdown is expected to take effect on 21 October-15 November. Travellers are permitted entry from the European Union (EU) the European Economic Area (EEA) Switzerland the United Kingdom (UK) and low COVID-19 risk green non-EU countries regardless of the purpose of travel or COVID-19 vaccination status. Travellers from other non-EU countries must present proof of recovery or vaccination against COVID-19 to be permitted entry. Unvaccinated travellers are only permitted entry for essential purposes including work study transit family reunions funerals medical treatment returning to ones home and accompanying a minor. Passengers must present documentation confirming essential travel. Unvaccinated travellers from high-risk countries are required to self-quarantine for 10 days upon arrival. The quarantine period can be reduced by obtaining a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken on day 7. The list of countries from where travellers are subject to self-quarantine is updated weekly by health officials. Health authorities confirmed the first novel coronavirus (COVID-19) case in the country on 29 February 2020 after a woman who recently returned from Italy tested positive for the virus. As of October 2021 COVID-19 infection rates in Latvia are significantly above the EU average. Officials subsequently reimposed a state of emergency and announced a lockdown. Thousands of people rallied from the Freedom Monument to Riga Castle (Pils laukums 3) in Central district on 18 August over a mandatory vaccination policy.
Lithuania
Oct 18 2021 Before travel Travellers arriving without proof of vaccination or recovery must present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before entry or an antigen test taken within 48 hours. Antibody tests are not accepted. The test result must be issued in English Lithuanian or Russian. Upon arrival Those who arrive by private transport must book and take a COVID-19 test within 24 hours after arrival if they do not present a negative pre-departure test at the border. After arrival Unvaccinated travellers arriving from countries that are colour-coded quot;yellowquot; must take an additional PCR test between 3-5 days after arrival. KoronaStopLT is a voluntary contact tracing app. International passenger flights are predominantly available at Vilnius Airport (VNO/EYVI) and operating to and from major European hubs and neighbouring Baltic countries. International flights are also operating on a limited number of routes at Kaunas (KUN/EYKA) and Palanga (PLQ/EYPA) airports. Certain venues and large events are only open to those with a COVID-19 certificate. Wearing face masks is mandatory in indoor public spaces including public transport airports and shops. A 10-day self-quarantine is mandatory for unvaccinated travellers from red and grey countries. The quarantine period can be reduced by taking a PCR test no earlier than seven days after arrival and testing negative provided that the traveller has not developed COVID-19 symptoms. Travellers must continue to limit contacts for 14 days after arrival regardless of the shortened self-quarantine period. Stricter quarantine requirements apply to travellers arriving from countries assessed to be severely affected by COVID-19. Travellers arriving from worse-affected countries must stay in an accommodation separate from other family members and cannot go outside during quarantine. Crew members of international transport companies must also quarantine upon arrival until the day of departure from Lithuania but no longer than 10 days. Diplomatic personnel EU/EEA cross-border workers transiting travellers students and trainees health care workers and seafarers are exempt from quarantine. Travellers must present a certificate to prove prior infection or full vaccination. Consult website (nvsc.lrv.lt/en/information-on-covid-19/for-arrivals-from-abroad/everything-you-need-to-know-about-isolation/isolation-exemptions) for a full list of exemptions from self-quarantine. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: A COVID-19 opportunity passport must be presented for entry to non-essential shops fitness centres services and indoor public events as well as large outdoor events with more than 500 people in attendance. Covid Pass availability: The EU Digital COVID Certificate or other proof of vaccination recovery or negative test will be accepted. Residents can obtain the EU Digital COVID Certificate on the countrys e-health portal (www.esveikata.lt) or passports of opportunity (gpasas.lt/). Those without valid proof of recovery or vaccination can take a PCR or antigen test at their own expense. Negative tests are valid for 48 hours. Health authorities confirmed the first novel coronavirus (COVID-19) case in the country in Februrary 2020 after a woman who returned from Verona Italy tested positive for the virus. While officials eased sanitary measures the country has seen a significant increase in new COVID-19 cases since July 2021 due to the spread of the delta virus variant. Nationals and residents of countries in the European Economic Area (EEA) Switzerland the United Kingdom (UK) Andorra Monaco San Marino and the Vatican are permitted entry. Family members of Lithuanian nationals and residents are permitted entry. Travellers who arrive from grey non-EU countries without proof of vaccination or recovery from COVID-19 must quarantine upon arrival. Travellers who are fully vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 are permitted entry from any country without mandatory quarantine. There are no special requirements to exit the country. However travel abroad is advised against.
Luxembourg
Oct 20 2021 Hospitality establishments can provide service with up to four people per table indoors and 10 people per table outdoors without prior testing. Gatherings of up to 300 people are permitted. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: A health pass is required for access to mass public events nightclubs and places that pose a higher COVID-19 risk. Starting 1 November the requirement to present a health pass will also apply to hospitality establishments. Covid Pass availability: In order to obtain a Health Pass individuals may present any three of the following: a vaccine administered in the European Union (EU) proof of recovery between 11 days-6 months after a positive COVID-19 test or a negative PCR test result obtained 48 hours prior to application. The pass can be obtained from the CovidCheck app. Luxembourg Airport (LUX/ELLX)-based Luxair is operating limited flights to major European destinations. Nationals of an European Union (EU) member state Schengen Area country San Marino Andorra Monaco or the Vatican as well as their family members may enter the country. The overland border crossings with Germany France and Belgium are open. Nationals of countries outside the EU and the Schengen Area are banned from entering until 31 December inclusive. Those who have long-term residency status or hold a long-stay visa issued by a EU or Schengen country healthcare workers cross-border workers transport workers diplomatic staff and those travelling for study or an urgent family reason will be exempt. Residents of Australia Bosnia and Herzegovina Canada Jordan New Zealand Qatar Moldova Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Ukraine Uruguay Hong Kong Macao and Taiwan are also permitted entry. Before travel Travellers arriving by air must present proof of a negative test recovery or vaccination against COVID-19. The negative test result must have been obtained from a nucleic acid amplification test (PCR TMA or LAMP) that was taken within 72 hours before the flight or an antigen test no older than 48 hours. The test result must be in English Portuguese Spanish Italian or one of the administrative languages of Luxembourg. Mandatory testing does not apply to those arriving by land. Transport workers transiting air passengers travellers returning from Luxembourg to another EU/Schengen country after a stay within the EU/Schengen Area no longer than 72 hours those who show proof of a recent COVID-19 infection in the last three months and completed self-quarantine are exempt from testing. Diplomatic personnel workers in international organisations humanitarian aid workers and civil protection personnel are also exempt provided that their stay in the country does not exceed 72 hours. There is no national contact tracing app. Travellers who refuse to submit negative test results must quarantine for up to 14 days. Face masks are mandatory on public transport for indoor public spaces and activities and gatherings where a two-metre (six-feet) distance cannot be maintained; children under six years old are exempt. There is no special requirement to exit the country. A nightly curfew was lifted on 12 June. Some preventative measures remain in effect until at least 18 December. Health officials confirmed on 29 February 2020 that the first case of COVID-19 was detected in a patient who had recently returned from Italy via Belgium. While domestic travel restrictions have been lifted gradually and land borders with neighbouring countries reopened on 15 June 2020 the country remains closed to most non-EU travellers until at least 31 December 2021. Most domestic restrictions including a nighttime curfew were lifted on 12 June.
Montenegro
Oct 20 2021 Most available international flights are operating at Podgorica Airport (TGD/LYPG). International flights are also available at Tivat Airport (TIV/LYTV) on a limited number of routes with most running to and from hubs in Serbia and Ukraine. Foreign nationals are permitted to enter the country. Both airports and seaports are open to foreign nationals. Before travel Travellers are required to present proof of a negative test recovery or vaccination against COVID-19. The negative test must be a PCR test no older than 72 hours or an antigen test no older than 48 hours. Health care professionals health researchers workers transporting passengers or goods diplomatic personnel military personnel humanitarian aid workers transiting passengers seafarers and those in need of international protection are exempt from entry requirements. There is no national contact tracing app. Montenegrin nationals and residents without valid COVID-19 documentation must self-quarantine upon arrival. The quarantine period can be cut short after six days with a negative PCR test result for COVID-19. Health care professionals health researchers workers transporting passengers or goods diplomatic personnel military personnel humanitarian aid workers transiting passengers seafarers and those in need of international protection are exempt from entry requirements. Face masks must be worn in enclosed public spaces including public transport and taxis. The use of face masks is also required in outdoor spaces if a two-metre distance cannot be kept. Some venues are only accessible with a COVID-19 certificate. Public health officials confirmed the first cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the country on 17 March 2020 after two people who arrived from Spain and the United States (US) tested positive for the virus. While the number of active cases had initially declined to zero by May 2020 the country has seen multiple surges in infections since June 2020. Despite an ongoing vaccination campaign hundreds of new infections have been reported daily in October 2021. Mass gatherings are banned with the exception of outdoor public events for up to 50 people and activities that are professional or cultural in nature. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: A COVID-19 certificate is required to attend large events and visit indoor venues including stadiums restaurants bars and cinemas. Covid Pass availability: The EU Digital COVID certificate and authorised paper certificates will also be accepted. The negative test must be an antigen test no older than 48 hours or a PCR test no older than 72 hours. Proof of recovery is valid for 14-180 days.
Netherlands
Oct 20 2021 Non-essential travel is not permitted from most non-European Union (EU) countries. Long-term residents of Australia Bahrain Canada Chile Faroe Islands Greenland Hong Kong Jordan Kuwait Macau New Zealand Qatar Rwanda Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Svalbard Taiwan Ukraine the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Uruguay are exempt and permitted entry. Cross-border workers workers in the transport sector and those seeking to enter for urgent family reasons are also exempt. Business travellers are permitted entry for urgent travel that cannot be postponed. Nationals and residents of an EU member state Schengen Area country Monaco San Marino or the Vatican are permitted entry regardless of purpose. Before travel Travellers who arrive from high-risk EU countries without proof of recovery or vaccination against COVID-19 must present a negative nucleic acid amplification test (PCR RT-PCR LAMP TMA mPOCT) taken within 48 hours or an antigen test within 24 hours. Non-EU travellers arriving from a safe or high-risk area without proof of vaccination against COVID-19 must present a negative NAAT test taken within 48 hours or an antigen test within 24 hours. Travellers arriving from very high-risk areas must present a negative test regardless of recovery or vaccination status. After arrival Travellers undergoing self-quarantine can reduce the quarantine period by taking a second COVID-19 test five days after entry and obtaining a negative result. Voluntary contact tracing app CoronaMelder (coronamelder.nl/en/) is available for use on mobile devices. Unvaccinated travellers arriving from very high-risk countries must self-quarantine for up to 10 days upon arrival. A PCR test can be taken on day 5 to end quarantine early. Quarantine requirements can be confirmed on the Dutch government website (reizentijdenscorona.rijksoverheid.nl/en). Cross-border commuters (including students) transport workers and those travelling to visit a partner spouse child or parent are exempt from quarantine. Temporarily leaving self-quarantine is permitted for select purposes including making business trips that contribute to Dutch economic and societal interests conducting research in the field of healthcare going to work or attending a funeral. A full list of exemptions is available on the Dutch government website (www.government.nl/topics/coronavirus-covid-19/visiting-the-netherlands-from-abroad/self-quarantine/exceptions-mandatory-quarantine). Travel is not advised to non-EU countries that are colour-coded orange or red for risk level. Travel advice will be published on website www.nederlandwereldwijd.nl/reizen/reisadviezen. Flights are predominantly operating to and from European destinations. Limited long-haul flights resumed on multiple routes including flights between Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS/EHAM) and John F. Kennedy (JFK/KJFK) Los Angeles (LAX/KLAX) and Toronto Pearson (YYZ/CYYZ) airports. Face masks must be worn on public transport and airports. While distancing requirements were lifted on 25 September a face mask must continue to be worn on public transport and a COVID-19 certificate must be presented to enter some public spaces. Hospitality establishments must close daily between 00:00-06:00 local time. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: A COVID-19 health pass is required to enter hospitality establishments large events and cultural venues. Covid Pass availability: The entry pass can be obtained with proof of vaccination recovery or a negative test that was taken within 24 hours before entry. Dutch residents can use the CoronaCheck App as a COVID-19 certificate. A paper print-out of the QR code generated by the app will be accepted as well. Non-EU vaccination certificates are not accepted. Non-EU visitors must be tested daily to obtain the certificate. On 27 February 2020 public health officials confirmed the first case of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Tilburg after a patient who recently travelled to northern Italy tested positive for the disease. The country has since seen multiple waves of COVID-19 infections. Multiple demonstrations have been held in protest of lockdown measures and over the economic impact of the pandemic. Dozens of anti-lockdown protesters were detained amid a demonstration at Koekamp in The Hague on 5 May 2020 for not complying with social distancing measures. In late January 2021 dozens of people were detained and multiple buildings were damaged in Amsterdam Rotterdam Den Bosch Haarlem Tilburg Veenendaal Breda Almelo Zwolle Helmond Geleen Enschede Urk Stein The Hague and Eindhoven during riots over the governments decision to impose a curfew.
North Macedonia
Oct 12 2021 Gatherings of more than five persons in parks and other public places and areas is banned. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: A COVID-19 vaccination certificate must be presented for entry to restaurants cafes and other venues where more than 30 people are present. Weddings and similar events inside enclosed spaces will be banned. Covid Pass availability: The vaccine certificate will be available to those who have had at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Those who were vaccinated in North Macedonia can obtain the certificate online through the Ministry of Health (vakcinacija.mk/). Skopje (SKP/LWSK) and Ohrids St Paul Apostle (OHD/LWOH) airports are open to passenger flights. Travellers displaying COVID-19 symptoms will be denied boarding. The countrys borders are open to travellers. Before travel All arriving travellers must present proof of a negative test recovery or vaccination against COVID-19. The test must be a PCR test result no older than 72 hours prior to entry or an antigen test no older than 48 hours. Transiting travellers whose stay does not exceed five hours are exempt. Travellers arriving from India must quarantine for 14 days. Macedonian nationals who arrive without COVID-19 documentation must quarantine for seven days upon entry. The quarantine period can be shortened to five days if travellers present a negative PCR test result on day five. Face masks are mandatory on public transport inside taxis and other enclosed public spaces. While most non-essential venues and services are open a COVID-19 health pass is required for access to hospitality establishments and large events. In August 2021 the country saw a sharp uptick in new COVID-19 cases due to the spread of the delta virus variant. A health pass system is in effect for some public venues. As of late October 2021 COVID-19 cases were decreasing.
Poland
Oct 19 2021 Accommodation facilities and hospitality establishments are open at 75 percent capacity. Up to 150 people are permitted at public events with the exception of vaccinated people who do not count towards the limit. LOT Polish Airlines flights are operating to dozens of destinations including Amsterdam Frankfurt Milan Munich and Paris. Flights are also available on a limited number of long-distance routes including services to major hubs in the United States Incheon (ICN/RKSI) Tokyo (NRT/RJAA) and Toronto (YYZ/CYYZ). Non-essential establishments and services are open with capacity limits and other sanitary measures. Non-essential travel is not permitted from a country outside the European Union (EU) or the Schengen Area. Nationals and residents of Australia Canada Georgia Israel Japan New Zealand South Korea Thailand Tunisia Turkey and the United States (US) arriving by plane are exempt from the entry ban. Nationals of Belarus nationals of the United Kingdom (UK) spouses and children of Polish nationals Poles Card (Karta Polaka) holders residency or work permit holders students studying in Poland scientists conducting research in Poland workers transporting goods and diplomatic personnel may also enter the country. Transiting air passengers are permitted entry provided they present proof of flight departure within 24 hours of arrival. Before travel Travellers arriving from the European Union (EU) the Schengen Area or Turkey must present the EU Digital Covid Certificate (EUDCC) or another proof of a negative COVID-19 test recovery or vaccination against the virus. The test must be a PCR or antigen test that was performed within 48 hours before entry. Those transiting through the country are not required to provide a PCR or antigen test provided that they present proof of flight departure within 24 hours of arrival. After arrival Non-EU travellers excluding arrivals from Turkey can take a PCR or antigen test for COVID-19 no earlier than the eighth day and obtain a negative result to end quarantine. Travellers with valid proof of recovery or vaccination and holders of COVID-19 documentation that has interoperability with the EU Digital COVID Certificate are exempt from post-arrival testing. ProteGO Safe is an optional mobile app for contact tracing. Unvaccinated non-Schengen arrivals must quarantine for 10 days upon arrival. Travellers can end quarantine early upon the receipt of a negative PCR or antigen test taken seven days after arrival. Travellers arriving the EU the Schengen Area or Turkey must also quarantine if they fail to present valid COVID-19 documentation. The quarantine period can be shortened by obtaining a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken 48 hours after arrival. Students studying in Poland cross-border agricultural workers transiting passengers medical professionals aircraft crew members diplomatic personnel and their family members and those travelling for professional reasons are exempt from mandatory quarantine. Transiting passengers must leave the country within 24 hours of arrival. Wearing a face mask is required in indoor public spaces including public transport and shops. The use of face masks will be enforced by police and those who do not comply can be fined PLN500 (EUR113). Only those carrying a medical document on their person exempting them from wearing a mask will be exempt from penalties. Demonstrators rallied on Warsaws Dmowski Roundabout Na Rozdrozu Square Ujazdow Avenue and outside the Prime Ministers Office on 7 May 2020 to demand the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. Police fired tear gas at demonstrators demanding greater economic support on Castle Square in Warsaw on 16 May 2020. On 24 October 2020 police detained 120 people following clashes at an anti-lockdown rally on Bank Square (Plac Bankowy) in Warsaw. Public health officials announced on 4 March 2020 that an individual from Lubuskie province who recently travelled to Germany tested positive for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Following the passage of the third wave and the launch of a mass vaccination campaign incidence rates have significantly dropped and most restrictions have been relaxed.
Romania
Oct 17 2021 A weekend curfew can be imposed in areas where the COVID-19 incidence rate is between 6-7.5 cases per 1000 inhabitants. The curfew will apply daily in areas where the COVID-19 incidence rate exceeds 7.5 cases per 1000 inhabitants. Those who are vaccinated are exempt provided that at least 10 days have passed since the final dose and the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC) can be presented as proof of vaccination. Travel for work health transit and providing care is permitted during curfew hours. A weekend curfew is in place in Timisoara Ilfov and the communes of Giroc Otelec Parta during 20:00-05:00 on Fridays Saturdays and Sundays. Shops must close by 18:00 and operate by home delivery only during curfew hours. In Bucharest unvaccinated people are under curfew from 20:00-05:00 and businesses may open with a 50 percent capacity from 05:00-24:00. Face masks are mandatory on public transport and in indoor spaces as well as outdoor markets and fairs. Face masks must be worn in both indoor and outdoor public spaces in Bucharest and other localities where the COVID-19 infection rate exceeds six cases per 100000 inhabitants. All areas where the COVID-19 incidence rate exceeds six cases per 1000 people are subject to a 22:00 closing time for businesses and most public events and gatherings may only take place between 05:00 and 00:00 at 50 percent capacity. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: The requirement to present a COVID-19 certificate to enter restaurants cinemas entertainment venues or sporting events is in effect in areas where the COVID-19 incidence rate exceeds three cases per 1000 inhabitants. Covid Pass availability: Proof of vaccination recovery or a recent negative test for COVID-19 is generally accepted provided that the documentation is digitally verifiable with a QR code. Vaccination certificates must show that at least 10 days have passed since the final dose. Proof of recovery is valid between 15-180 days after confirmation of an infection. The test must be a PCR test taken within 72 hours or an antigen test taken within 48 hours. In October 2020 hospitality workers rallied on Victory Square in Bucharest to protest the closure of restaurants and other businesses due to COVID-19 restrictions. In March 2021 dozens of demonstrators were detained and multiple police officers were injured in Bucharest in clashes that erupted during demonstrations against the governments curfew order. In April 2021 hundreds of people rallied against COVID-19 restrictions in Bucharest Cluj-Napoca Deva and Constan?a. Further protests are possible particularly in urban hubs. Most international flights are available at Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP/LROP) where Wizz Air TAROM Blue Air and several other airlines are operating. While Romania is open to international travel arrivals can be subject to quarantine depending on the country of departure. Before travel Unvaccinated travellers arriving from quot;yellow zonequot; countries are required to present a negative PCR test not older than 72 hours or antigen test no older than 48 hours. Travellers who do not present proof of a negative test recovery or vaccination must self-quarantine upon arrival. There is no national contact tracing app. Travellers who arrive from countries on the red list and countries outside the European Union and the Schengen Area must quarantine for up to 14 days. The quarantince can be shortened if travellers present a negative PCR test on day 10 of the quarantine period. Travellers who are fully vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 are excluded from the quarantine requirement as well as travellers who present a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival and leave Romania within 72 hours. Public venues in high-incidence areas are only accessible with a COVID-19 certificate. A curfew can be imposed in very high-risk areas. Officials tightened preventative measures in September 2021 following a continuous increase in COVID-19 infections. Vaccination rates are low relative to other EU member states. A state of alert is in effect until 10 November.
Russia
Oct 20 2021 City of Moscow Public events that do not require COVID-19 certificates cannot have more than 500 people in attendance. Unvaccinated individuals over the age of 60 must remain under stay at home measures from 25 October until at least 25 February 2022. All businesses may operate with only 30 percent of their staff the remaining employees should work from home. Vologda and Oryol oblasts Large gatherings have been banned Cafes and restaurants must close from 00:00-06:00 local time in Vologda and Oryol oblasts. The operation of cinemas and theatres have also been suspended in Vologda oblast. Rostov oblast Most entertainment facilities in closed venues including entertainment facilities in trade centres were allowed to reopen. Authorities require either a proof of vaccination or a certificate of recovery from COVID-19 during the last six months or a negative PCR test result for adults above 18 years old to visit most venues including sporting centres restaurants government organisations and trade centers. The seating capacity limit for cinemas and theatres was increased to 50 percent whereas sporting events were allowed to operate at 25 percent of capacity with effect from 6 September. Zabaykalsky Krai Outdoor cultural and sporting events were allowed to take place cafes and restaurants were allowed to operate until 01:00 local time and some entertainment centre were allowed to open. Large gatherings are banned. Murmansk oblast Social gatherings were allowed with up to 70 people provided that the seating capacity of the venues was limited to 50 percent; outdoor sporting events with spectators were allowed to be held. Krasnoyarsk Krai Authorities required domestic travellers arriving in Norilsk and Dudinka Krasnoyarsk Krai to undertake a PCR and undergo a mandatory self-quarantine until a negative test result is received; fully vaccinated travellers and those who recently recovered from COVID-19 are exempted from these measures. Republic of Kalmykia Until 24 October large gatherings and public events are banned. Elderly people were recommended to follow self-isolation measures. Penza oblast Mass events are banned. Food courts can provide takeaway and delivery services only. Saint Petersburg Authorities extended COVID-19 restrictions in Saint Petersburg through 31 October. Sporting and public events remained limited to a maximum of 1000 spectators. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: Some regions require a COVID-19 certificate to access accommodation or tourist facilities. In Moscow a COVID-19 certificate must be presented for events with more than 500 people in attendance. In St Petersburg a QR code must be presented for sporting events and congresses with more than 40 people in attendance effective 1 November. Starting 15 November a QR code must be presented to enter fitness centres swimming pools museums theatres and cinemas. On 1 December the requirement to present a QR code will also apply to catering establishments and non-essential shops. In Krasnodar Krai tourists must present a COVID-19 certificate to access accommodation facilities. Covid Pass availability: In Moscow a COVID-19 certificate with a QR code can be obtained from city authorities (www.mos.ru/city/projects/covid-19/kod/). In Krasnodar Krai travellers must present proof of vaccination against COVID-19 or recovery from a prior infection. Unvaccinated travellers must present a PCR test and be vaccinated within three days of arrival. Face masks are mandatory in crowded public places nationwide including public transport and taxis. Multiple regions including Moscow and St Petersburg have reimposed measures limiting gatherings and requiring a COVID-19 health pass to be presented at some public venues. A non-working period will take effect from 30 October to 7 November inclusive. Non-essential businesses and services are expected to close during the period. Nationals and residents of Albania Armenia Austria Azerbaijan Bahrain Belarus Belgium Bulgaria China Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominican Republic Egypt Estonia Ethiopia Finland France Germany Greece Hungary Iceland India Iraq Ireland Italy Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kyrgyzstan Lebanon Luxembourg Maldives Malta Mauritius Mexico Moldova Morocco New Zealand North Macedonia Peru Portugal Qatar Saudi Arabia Serbia Seychelles Singapore Slovakia South Africa South Korea Spain Sri Lanka Switzerland Syria Tajikistan Turkey United Arab Emirates (UAE) United Kingdom (UK) United States (US) Uzbekistan Venezuela and Vietnam are permitted entry provided that they arrive directly from or transit through these countries to Russia. Borders are closed to other foreign nationals with the exception of permanent residents family members of Russian nationals students highly skilled workers and their family members nationals and residents of Belarus and those seeking to travel to receive medical treatment or provide care for relatives. Students must notify universities by email the date of their arrival at least 10 days in advance. Before travel Foreign nationals of all ages must present a negative PCR test result issued within three days before arrival. The negative test result must be issued in printed form in English or Russian. Transiting air passengers must present a negative PCR test result issued within three days before arrival. The negative test result must be issued in printed form in English Russian or the official language of the country of departure. After arrival Russian nationals without proof of recovery or vaccination against COVID-19 must take a PCR test within three days of arrival. Those travelling for study must take a second COVID-19 test within 72 hours after entry in addition to presenting a negative pre-departure test. Russian nationals returning from abroad must quarantine while they await the result of their post-arrival PCR test for COVID-19. The test must be taken within three days of return. Flights to Tanzania are suspended until at least 1 November. International flights predominantly operate through airports in Moscow and St Petersburg. Gosuslugi.COVID Treker is a voluntary contact tracing app available in Russian only. On 31 January 2020 health officials confirmed the first two cases of COVID-19 in Zabaykalsky Krai and Tyumen Oblast. While the country has taken a relatively lax approach for most of the outbreak the country has seen a significant surge in new cases due to the spread of the delta virus variant. In October 2021 the total number of recorded COVID-19 cases surpassed 8 million. Demonstrations have been held over economic conditions and lack of protections for workers. On 20 April 2020 approximately 500 demonstrators gathered on Freedom Square in Vladikavkaz North Ossetia-Alania in protest of job losses and restrictions imposed in response to the outbreak. Dozens of demonstrators were detained and at least five security personnel were injured in the clashes. On 28 April 2020 police dispersed hundreds of gas pipeline workers who burned bonfires and tyres at the Chayanda oil and gas field in Lensky district Sakha Republic to protest work and health conditions after dozens of workers at the complex tested positive for the virus. Protests against mandatory vaccination have also been held in Moscow with multiple arrests made on 26 June during a rally organized by the Communist Party. Clashes also erupted between police officers and migrants who have been stranded due to travel restrictions. Several police officers and protesters were injured in clashes that erupted on 15 June 2020 near a tent encampment in Kullar located in Derbent district Republic of Dagestan when approximately 400 Azerbaijani nationals attempted to block the Kavkaz highway and threw rocks and other objects at police officers over their inability to return to Azerbaijan.
Spain
Oct 19 2021 International flights are operating at major airports including Barcelona-El Prat (BCN/LEBL) Madrid-Barajas (MAD/LEMD) Ibiza (IBZ/LEIB) Menorca (MAH/LEMH) Tenerife South (TFS/GCTS) Alicante-Elche (ALC/LEAL) Region of Murcia (RMU/LEMI) Sevilla (SVQ/LEZL) Malaga (AGP/LEMG) Palma de Mallorca (PMI/LEPA) and Gran Canaria (LPA/GCLP). Wearing a face mask is compulsory in all indoor spaces as well as crowded outdoor areas where a 1.5-metre minimum distance cannot be maintained among members of different households. Travellers to the Balearic Islands must present proof of a negative test recovery or vaccination against COVID-19. Entry by nationals of non-European Union (EU)/Schengen Area countries is banned through 31 October. Residents of EU and Schengen Area countries Andorra Monaco San Marino and the Vatican holders of long-term visas issued in EU member states and Schengen Area countries returning to the country of their residence healthcare workers transport workers and diplomatic personnel are exempt. Residents of Australia Canada Chile China Jordan Kuwait New Zealand Qatar Rwanda Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Ukraine Uruguay Hong Kong Macau and Taiwan are also exempt. A negative test or proof of vaccination against COVID-19 is required for entry from the United Kingdom (UK). Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required for non-essential travel from other non-EU countries. Borders with other EU member states and Schengen countries are open. Cruise ships are permitted to dock in Spanish ports. Before travel Travellers arriving from 39;risk countries39; without proof of recovery or vaccination against COVID-19 must present a certificate for a nucleic acid amplification test (PCR TMA LAMP NEAR) that was taken within 72 hours or an antigen test that was taken within 48 hours before arrival. The certificate must be in Spanish English French or German. The list of risk countries subject to testing is updated weekly by health officials. Transiting passengers are exempt from testing provided that they do not leave the international zone. Travellers arriving from risk countries without a test result will be required to take a test upon arrival and subject to a fine of up to EUR6000 (USD7095). Travellers arriving from the United Kingdom (UK) must present a negative nucleic acid amplification test that was taken within 72 hours before arrival or proof of full vaccination against the virus. Non-essential travel abroad is discouraged. Radar Covid is an optional mobile app for contact tracing. While restrictions have been relaxed following a drop in cases sanitary measures that remain in effect include limits on large public events and capacity for some indoor venues as well as the mandatory use of face mask in indoor public spaces. Hundreds of demonstrators rallied on Puerta del Sol and outside the Assembly of Madrid in Puente de Vallecas on 27 September 2020 to protest lockdown measures in the capital. In October and November 2020 clashes erupted between demonstrators and police officers in Barcelona Seville Leon Logrono and Vitoria-Gasteiz during protests against the goverments decision to impose a nighttime curfew. Further protests are possible particularly in urban hubs. The COVID-19 outbreak in Spain caused one of the highest number of deaths in Europe. In January 2021 the total number of cases in the country surpassed 2 million. Most restrictions have been eased following the end of the state of alarm in May 2021. Following a new surge of COVID-19 cases the country has seen a steady decrease in new infections in October 2021.
Sweden
Oct 20 2021 Before travel Arriving travellers - excluding residents of Sweden and travellers from Denmark Finland Norway and Iceland - without valid proof of recovery or vaccination must present a negative test that was taken within 72 hours of entry. Valid proof of recovery and vaccination include the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC) or vaccination certificates that have interoperability with the EUDCC gateway. Cross-border commuters must present a negative COVID-19 test that is no older than one week. Swedish nationals and others exempt from pre-departure testing are advised to be tested as soon as possible after arrival and take a second test on Day 5. There is no national contact tracing app. Oct 19 2021 Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) the main airline serving the country is operating flights through Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN/ESSA) primarily to destinations in Scandinavia and major hubs in Europe. Long-haul service is available on a limited number of routes including ones linking Stockholm to destinations in the United States China and the United Arab Emirates. Non-essential travel is restricted from countries other than Denmark Finland Iceland or Norway. Residents of Sweden other European Economic Area (EEA) countries Andorra Monaco San Marino Switzerland and Vatican City must present the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC) to be permitted entry. Residents of safe non-EU countries - Australia Bahrain Canada Chile Hong Kong Jordan Kuwait Macau New Zealand Qatar Rwanda Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Taiwan Ukraine United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Uruguay - are exempt and permitted to enter with valid COVID-19 documentation. Vaccinated non-EU travellers whose certificates have interoperability with the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC) gateway are also permitted entry. Exemptions are also made for those with an essential need or function in Sweden returning Swedish residents and new residency or student permit holders who are to moving to Sweden. Travellers considered to have an essential purpose include health care professionals workers transporting goods and passengers travelling for imperative family reasons. The decision to grant an exemption will be made at the border upon arrival; police do not issue prior approvals. There is no requirement for international arrivals to quarantine. However non-EU arrivals are recommended to self-quarantine for up to seven days and avoid close contact with others. SAS passengers must wear FFP2 KN95 N95 or surgical masks while on board unless they are travelling within Denmark Sweden and Norway. Cloth masks are not permitted. Events and gatherings are permitted without a limit on the number of participants. Sweden confirmed its first novel coronavirus (COVID-19) case on 31 January 2020 after a traveller from Wuhan China tested positive for the virus in Jonkoping County. Sweden responded to the outbreak with a relatively lax approach being one of the few countries without mandatory mask use in public spaces. In September 2021 the government lifted most measures limiting gatherings and advising work from home. Prince Carl Philip and Princess Sofia tested postive for COVID-19 on 26 November 2020. Clashes erupted during a march from Stockholms Medborgarplatsen in March 2021 between police and anti-lockdown demonstrators.
United Kingdom
Oct 20 2021 Wearing a face mask is mandatory in public transport and other enclosed public spaces in Northern Ireland Scotland and Wales. In England the use of face masks is recommended in crowded areas. Businesses and travel operators can set their own mask requirements. The use of face masks remains mandatory on public transport operated by Transport for London (TfL). British Airways passengers are asked to wear a mask from the moment they arrive at the airport until they leave the plane at their destination. Optional contact tracing app NHS COVID-19 is available for use in England and Wales StopCOVID NI in Northern Ireland and Protect Scotland in Scotland. Travellers who arrive from countries that are not on the red list must have valid proof of vaccination to be exempt from quarantine. Travellers who are not vaccinated or whose proof of vaccination is not recognised by UK authorities must self-quarantine for 10 days. Travellers who arrive from the Common Travel Area - Ireland Guernsey Jersey and Isle of Man - are exempt from quarantine without testing. Travellers who arrive from or stayed in red list countries must undergo hotel quarantine at a designated facility for 10 days. The requirement also applies to those who transited through a red list country. Travellers arriving from red list countries must book a hotel and testing package at their own expense (quarantinehotelbookings.ctmportal.co.uk/). Workers in healthcare and other select sectors are exempt from quarantine. Consult the government website (www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-travellers-exempt-from-uk-border-rules/coronavirus-covid-19-travellers-exempt-from-uk-border-rules) for further details on quarantine requirements by sector. England As part of the test to release scheme travellers may opt to take a test five days into their self-quarantine and leave early pending a negative test result within 24-48 hours. The testing scheme is not available to travellers arriving from red list countries subject to entry bans. Travel to red list countries is discouraged. Covid domestic travel policies and advice for: Northern Ireland Up to 30 people from an unlimited number of households are permitted to gather in a domestic setting. A one-metre minimum distancing is mandatory in indoor venues until at least 31 October when it is expected to be relaxed along with other restrictions. Covid Pass is required for some domestic activities: England Events and venues may request an NHS Covid Pass for entry. Scotland A COVID-19 health pass is required for entering nightlife establishments and large public events. The requirement is expected to apply to unseated indoor live events with more than 500 people in the audience unseated outdoor live events with more than 4000 people in the audience and events of any kind with more than 10000 people present. Wales A COVID-19 health pass is required for entering nightlife establishments and large public events. The requirement is expected to apply to unseated indoor live events with more than 500 people in the audience unseated outdoor live events with more than 4000 people in the audience and events of any kind with more than 10000 people present. Covid Pass availability: Those in Wales or England can present the NHS Covid Pass (www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/covid-pass/get-your-covid-pass-letter/) as a digital app or in a letter form as proof of full vaccination from COVID-19. Those in Northern Ireland (www.nidirect.gov.uk/services/coronavirus-covid-19-covid-certificate-ni-residents) or Scotland (www.nhsinform.scot/covid19status) can obtain the certificate in written form. Before travel Travellers arriving from countries not on the quot;red listquot; must present a negative COVID-19 test result not older than three days before departure or proof of full vaccination that is recognised by UK authorities. Travellers must have been fully vaccinated under programmes that are approved by UK authorities. Arrivals from the Common Travel Area (Jersey Guernsey the Isle of Man and Ireland) children under the age of 11 and hauliers are exempt. Consult the government website for a full list of testing exemptions (www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-travellers-exempt-from-uk-border-rules/coronavirus-covid-19-travellers-exempt-from-uk-border-rules). Travellers arriving from quot;red listquot; countries must present a negative COVID-19 test result not older than three days before departure regardless of vaccination status. Children under the age of 11 and hauliers are exempt. Consult the government website for a full list of testing exemptions (www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-travellers-exempt-from-uk-border-rules/coronavirus-covid-19-travellers-exempt-from-uk-border-rules). Transiting passengers must present a negative COVID-19 test that was taken within three days of departure. After arrival Travellers must book a post-arrival COVID-19 testing package online (quarantinehotelbookings.ctmportal.co.uk/) at their own expense unless they arrived from the Common Travel Area. Travellers must take a PCR test for COVID-19 by day 2 after arrival regardless of vaccination status. The day of arrival is considered quot;Day 0quot;. Vaccinated travellers arriving from countries not on the quot;red listquot; are exempt from day 8 testing provided that they arrive from countries where vaccination programmes are recognised by UK authorities. Travellers without valid proof of vaccination against COVID-19 and travellers arriving from quot;red listquot; countries must be tested on or after day 8 of arrival. As part of the 39;test to release39; scheme travellers arriving in England can take a COVID-19 test five days after entry to shorten the self-quarantine period. Travellers wishing to be tested must do so at their own expense. Travellers must continue to take COVID-19 tests on day 2 and 8 of their stay regardless of the test result taken as part of the 39;test to release39; scheme. Travellers arriving from quot;red listquot; countries are excluded from the scheme. Effective 24 October fully vaccinated travellers and minors arriving from countries not on the quot;red listquot; can opt to take a lateral flow COVID-19 test on or before the second day after their arrival in England waiving the PCR testing requirement. Public health officials confirmed the first two COVID-19 cases in England on 31 January 2020. While a mass vaccination campaign has significantly reduced the number of deaths the country has seen a sharp uptick in COVID-19 cases driven by the spread of the delta virus variant. Despite high incidence rates most distancing measures have been lifted. Most available long-haul flights are operating at London Heathrow Airport (LHR/EGLL). Those who have travelled to or through Colombia the Dominican Republic Ecuador Haiti Panama Peru or Venezuela in the last 10 days are not permitted to enter. Only nationals of the UK and Ireland UK permanent residents and UK long-term visa holders will be permitted entry from these countries. Most social distancing measures were lifted in August 2021. In October 2021 travel restrictions were eased to allow vaccinated travellers from additional countries to be exempt from pre-departure testing and quarantine. Large rallies that have ended in clashes with police have been held in London Belfast Manchester Edinburgh Leeds Glasgow Brighton and other cities to protest lockdown measures.