All your travel questions answered: a country-by-country guide to the complex Covid rules

Holiday Covid testing rules - Jasper James/The Image Bank RF
Holiday Covid testing rules - Jasper James/The Image Bank RF

Britain has removed the last remaining Covid rules. However, regulations still exist in many of our favourite holiday destinations.

They are being eased. The likes of Norway, Denmark and Sweden are following the UK’s lead, while all European countries have scrapped testing requirements for vaccinated people. But as things stand, testing remains commonplace beyond Europe, unvaccinated people are often banned, mask rules are still strict, and Covid passports are sometimes used.

Our regularly updated country-by-country guide explains the key restrictions in all major holiday destinations so you know what to expect. However, they change fast, so it would be wise to cross-reference against the Foreign Office website too.


Europe at a glance

No travel restrictions:

  • Denmark

  • Estonia

  • Hungary

  • Iceland

  • Ireland

  • Latvia

  • Lithuania

  • Moldova

  • Montenegro

  • Norway

  • Poland

  • Romania

  • Slovenia

  • Sweden

No masks:

  • Denmark

  • Estonia

  • Finland

  • Hungary

  • Iceland

  • Ireland

  • Norway

  • Poland

  • Romania

  • Sweden

  • Turkey (in most settings)

Only vaccinated/boosted travellers permitted:

  • Belgium

  • Czech Republic

  • Finland

  • Germany

  • Liechtenstein

  • Malta (until April 11)

  • Netherlands

  • Slovakia

  • Spain

  • Switzerland

Test required for unvaccinated arrivals:

  • Albania

  • Austria

  • Bosnia and Herzegovina

  • Bulgaria

  • Croatia

  • Cyprus

  • France

  • Greece

  • Italy

  • Luxembourg

  • North Macedonia

  • Portugal

  • Serbia

  • Turkey


Rest of the world at a glance

No travel restrictions:

  • Costa Rica

  • Cuba

  • El Salvador

  • Maldives

  • Mexico

No masks:

  • Maldives

  • US (some states, eg Florida)

Only vaccinated/boosted travellers permitted:

  • Canada

  • Morocco

  • US

Test required for unvaccinated arrivals:

  • Dominican Republic

  • Dubai

  • Egypt

  • India

  • Peru

  • Seychelles

  • South Africa

  • Sri Lanka

Test required for all arrivals:

  • Jamaica

  • Morocco


Europe in detail

Austria

  • Proof of vaccination/booster, recovery or a negative test required

  • FFP2 masks compulsory in all public indoor spaces

  • Covid passports in use in Vienna

Entry rules for vaccinated

Arrivals must show either proof of full vaccination, a recovery certificate or a recent negative test to enter Austria.

To show proof of vaccination you must have received a second dose or a booster no more than 270 days before arrival.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

Unvaccinated travellers have the option of showing a recent negative test or Covid recovery certificate (which must be dated within the last 180 days).

Pre-departure tests can either be a PCR (taken within 72 hours of arrival) or antigen/lateral flow (taken within 24 hours of arrival). Lateral flow self-tests are not accepted.

Covid passports

Covid passports are no longer required in much of the country, however the rules are stricter in Vienna. At restaurants, bars and nightclubs in the capital, the 2G rule (proof of vaccination/recovery) applies.

Unvaccinated children over the age of six can gain 2G status by testing. For under-12s, a PCR test is valid for 72 hours, a lateral flow test for 48 hours. Teenagers aged 12 to 15 – who are not yet fully vaccinated or recovered – need to take a PCR test (valid for 48 hours)

Mask rules and other restrictions

FFP2 face masks are mandatory in all public indoor spaces, including shops, hotels, restaurants (when not seated) and on public transport. Children under six are exempt, and regular face masks are accepted for children aged six to 13.

Rules for children

Children under the age of 12 do not need proof of vaccination/recovery or a PCR test if accompanied by fully vaccinated or recovered adults. Children aged 12 or over, born on or after September 1 2006, can use the first PCR test of a Holiday Ninja Pass to enter Austria. Adult entry rules apply for anyone born before September 1, 2006.


Belgium

  • Proof of vaccination/booster or recovery required

  • FFP2 masks on public transport

  • Covid passports scrapped

Entry rules for vaccinated

Fully vaccinated Britons are allowed to visit Belgium for any reason as long as they have proof of a second dose administered 14 days before travel. Note that no more than 270 days must have passed since your second dose unless you have received a booster jab. All arrivals are required to fill in a passenger locator form.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

If you are aged 12 or over and unvaccinated you can only enter Belgium if you can produce either a recovery or negative test certificate. Additionally, in the absence of a recovery certificate, if you are aged 18 or older you can only enter Belgium for essential reasons.

Covid passports

On March 7 Belgium dropped the requirement for people to show a 'Covid Safe Ticket' to enter bars, restaurants and to attend live events.

Mask rules and other restrictions

Belgium has eased its Covid-19 restrictions, meaning face masks are only mandatory on public transport and in healthcare facilities for those aged 12 and over.

Rules for children

Unvaccinated or single-jabbed children over the age of 12 can enter Belgium if they show proof of recovery from Covid or a negative test certificate. Children under the age of 12, even if not fully vaccinated, are exempt from testing requirements.


Croatia

  • No testing for vaccinated arrivals or under-12s

  • Unvaccinated people must take a test or show proof of recovery

  • Masks required on public transport

Entry rules for vaccinated

Travellers from the UK must present one of the following for entry to Croatia: proof of vaccination, not older than 270 days; failing that, a booster shot; a negative antigen test result (not older than 24 hours); a negative PCR test result (not older than 72 hours) or a certificate of recovery from Covid-19 (not older than 180 days). They must also complete an online entry form before travelling to Croatia.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

Unvaccinated travellers can visit Croatia with a negative Covid-19 test (see specifications above) or proof of recovery. An entry form is also required, see above. Croatia will accept the UK’s proof of recovery.

Covid passports

Anyone entering public services, local and regional municipalities, state-owned companies and institutions is required to show either a digital Covid-19 certificate or appropriate proof of vaccination, proof of recovery or a negative test. Travellers may also be asked to show identification along with their Covid-19 pass.

Mask rules and other restrictions

It is mandatory to wear a mask on public transport, in taxis and in shops.

Rules for children

Children under 12 are exempt from entry requirements if travelling with a parent or guardian who has one of the documents mentioned above.


Finland

  • Proof of vaccination/booster required

  • No masks, and other domestic rules scrapped

  • No restrictions on those aged 15 or under

Entry rules for vaccinated

Only fully vaccinated British travellers, or those who have recovered from Covid and received at least one vaccine dose, can visit Finland for tourism purposes. The second dose is valid for 270 days, after which a booster shot is required.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

You will only be allowed to enter Finland if you can provide evidence of an essential or compassionate reason for entry. This does not include tourism.

Covid passports

Finland shelved its Covid passport system in December.

Mask rules and other restrictions

Finnish authorities recommend that face masks are worn when travelling on public transport and in other crowded indoor situations, but they are not mandatory.

Rules for children

Young people born in 2007 or later are exempt from Finland’s entry requirements and they do not need to provide proof of vaccination or take a test if they are accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult guardian.


France

  • Covid passports suspended; some mask rules remain

  • No tests for under-12s or vaccinated arrivals

  • Unvaccinated can visit with a test

Entry rules for vaccinated

Fully vaccinated arrivals from Britain may visit France for any reason, and the requirement to present a negative PCR or antigen test result prior to departure ended in mid-February.

Arrivals must also provide a completed ‘sworn statement’ (déclaration sur l’honneur) form self-certifying that they are not suffering from symptoms associated with coronavirus and have not been in contact with confirmed cases in the preceding fortnight. This can be found on the French government’s website. You may also be asked to complete the EU-PLF form before boarding..

Entry rules for unvaccinated

On March 31, France dropped its ban on unvaccinated British arrivals. Anyone can now enter the country with a negative PCR test taken 72 hours before travel, or an antigen test taken 48 hours before travel.

Covid passports

France has suspended its Covid passport (pass sanitaire) system.

Mask rules and other restrictions

Face mask rules were significantly eased on March 14 and are now only be required to be worn on public transport and in hospitals.

Rules for children

Children under 12 are exempt from all regulations. Unvaccinated children aged 12 to 17 may enter in the company of vaccinated adults with a negative test (LFT 48 hours before or PCR 72 hours before) and declaration form.

See our complete guide to France’s Covid rules.

Only vaccinated travellers may visit France - Getty
Only vaccinated travellers may visit France - Getty

Germany

  • Only open to vaccinated or recovered travellers

  • Covid passports for everyone aged six or over

  • Unvaccinated British 12 to 17 year olds unable to visit

Entry rules for vaccinated

Fully vaccinated or recovered travellers from the UK can enter Germany for any reason. The NHS Covid Pass is acceptable proof of vaccination. Germany also accepts the UK’s proof of recovery from Covid.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

Travellers from the UK who aren’t fully vaccinated (or don’t have proof of recovery) can only enter Germany if they are a German citizen, the spouse, partner or child under 18 of a resident in Germany, serve in an important role or have an urgent reason to travel. Those who are eligible to enter who are not fully vaccinated will generally be subject to a 10-day quarantine with the option to take a test to be released after five days. Any unvaccinated or unrecovered traveller aged six or over needs a negative Covid-19 test result to enter, either a PCR (which can be no older than 48 hours of departure) or an antigen (no older than 48 hours at the time of arrival).

Covid passports

Germany has scrapped the requirement to show proof of vaccination to get into indoor venues. However, Germany's 16 states are able to implement Covid rules if they see cases spike.

Mask rules and other restrictions

Mask rules have been eased. They are no longer required in shops, restaurants and schools, but remain on public transport. German states are able to implement their own mask rules, however.

Rules for children

Unvaccinated children aged 11 years or under are allowed to enter Germany as long as they travel with at least one vaccinated adult. Unvaccinated children aged 6 to 11 require a negative test (required for all other permitted unvaccinated arrivals), but under-5s are exempt. 12 to 17 year olds may only enter if they are fully vaccinated, resident or the child of a resident, or have an urgent need to travel. If they are allowed to enter and are unvaccinated, they must have proof of a negative test or recovery.


Greece

  • Strict mask rules and Covid passports

  • No testing for vaccinated arrivals

Entry rules for vaccinated

From March 15, arrivals are no longer required to complete a Passenger Locator Form on arrival in Greece. Fully vaccinated travellers are exempt from testing requirements.

Arrivals may be required to undergo a rapid test on arrival. If they test positive, they (and those travelling with them) will have to self-isolate for at least five days at home or in quarantine hotels provided by the Greek state.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

Travellers aged five or over and not fully vaccinated must bring proof of either a negative PCR test (no more than 72 hours old) or a negative rapid antigen test (issued by an authorised laboratory and undertaken within the 24-hour period before arrival), or a certificate of recovery from Covid-19. Significant restrictions are in force on the ground (see “Covid passports”, below).

Covid passports

Proof of vaccination is required to enter most public spaces. You may also be asked to show ID (such as a passport).

Unvaccinated people can enter some venues, such as shops and restaurants (outdoors), but only with evidence of a negative rapid test taken up to 48 hours before entry. They cannot enter nightclubs, restaurants (indoors), theatres, cinemas, museums, exhibitions, conferences, gyms and stadiums.

Mask rules and other restrictions

It is mandatory to wear a mask in all indoor and outdoor public spaces, in all areas of Greece. In certain areas (like supermarkets and pharmacies) you will be required to wear either two masks (at least one of which should be surgical), or an N95/FFP2 mask.

Heidi Fuller-Love, a reporter based in Crete, said: “The rules are strictly enforced in the larger cities – I was even ticked off in an Athens supermarket the other day for not wearing my mask properly; something that never used to happen here – but in smaller towns and the countryside people are pretty lax.”

Rules for children

Children aged five years and older who are not fully vaccinated must take a test to enter the country (see “Entry rules for unvaccinated”, above). Unvaccinated children (between the ages of four and 18) require a negative rapid test (taken in the previous 48 hours) to enter public spaces such as shops, restaurants (indoor and outdoor) and museums.

See our complete guide to Greece’s Covid rules.


Italy

  • Testing scrapped for vaccinated travellers

  • Strict mask rules and Covid passports for all over-11s

Entry rules for vaccinated

Travellers can enter Italy with either a primary vaccination certificate (valid for 270 days from the date of the last dose, or valid indefinitely for those who have had a full course plus a booster dose), or a recovery certificate no more than 180 days old.

You must also fill in the passenger locator form (EU PLF).

Entry rules for unvaccinated

Unvaccinated arrivals must also show either evidence of a negative PCR taken within 72 hours before entering Italy, a negative rapid lateral flow test taken within the 48 hours before entering Italy, or a recovery certificate.

Covid passports

A ‘Super Green Pass’ is needed by everyone aged 12 and over to enter bars, restaurants, shops and to use public transport, and is a requirement to board an enclosed ski lift.

The Super Green Pass is valid if you received your second dose within the last six months, or a booster, or proof of recovery within 180 days. Without this, you will need to take a PCR test every 72 hours (or antigen every 48 hours) while in Italy to access venues. This came into effect February 7.

It is understood that the Super Green Pass will be dropped on May 1.

Mask rules and other restrictions

All adults must carry a mask with them when leaving their home or accommodation. Everyone aged six and over must wear a mask while indoors, and it must be an FFP2 mask on public transport, in theatres, concert halls and cinemas. Masks are also still mandatory at large gatherings such as sporting events, and you must wear an FFP2 mask on your flight to Italy. These rules are in place until April 30 at the earliest.

Rules for children

From March 1, while children under six may accompany adults with the correct paperwork, unvaccinated children aged 17 and under must still provide evidence of a negative Covid-19 test to enter. Only children aged 12 and above have currently been offered the vaccine in the UK, meaning children aged six to 12 must take a PCR test 48 hours before travel, or a lateral flow 24 hours before travel, to enter Italy.

The Super Green Pass can only be activated if you are fully vaccinated, so teenagers aged 12 and above will not be able to enter bars, restaurants or hotels unless they have had two doses. Children under 12 are exempt from having to present the Super Green Pass.

See our complete guide to Italy’s travel rules.


Netherlands

  • Unvaccinated visitors banned

  • Pre-departure testing for fully vaccinated travellers scrapped

  • Masks required on public transport

Entry rules for vaccinated

All fully vaccinated UK travellers can enter the Netherlands (proof of vaccination is only valid 270 days after the final dose of your the initial course of vaccination). Booster jabs do not currently have an expiration date.

From March 23, travellers no longer need to take a pre-departure test to travel to the Netherlands.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

Travellers who are not fully vaccinated or a legal resident of the Netherlands are not permitted to enter unless they meet the requirements under the exemption category of the EU entry ban. Those who are not fully vaccinated and meet the exemption requirements must show proof of a negative PCR for antigen test (if aged 12 or over), complete a quarantine declaration form, complete a health declaration if travelling by plane.

Covid passports

Covid passes have been suspended and proof of a recent negative test is only needed for venues with over 500 visitors (and without assigned seating) such as nightclubs or a music concert.

Mask rules and other restrictions

Masks are required on public transport and in stations. People are advised to wear disposable masks, with the Dutch Government advising against homemade and fabric masks.

Rules for children

The entry rules vary depending on age: children under 11 and under are exempt from testing requirements; children aged 12 and over travelling with parents do not need to show proof of vaccination, but must have a negative test result.

Once in the Netherlands, children aged 13 or over must show a coronavirus entry pass (the NHS Covid Pass is sufficient) for entry to venues where it is required. Anyone aged 14 or over must also show a valid form of ID along with their entry pass.


Portugal

  • Open to unvaccinated arrivals

  • No testing for vaccinated travellers, except for the Azores

  • Covid passport rules relaxed

Entry rules for vaccinated

British travellers can visit Portugal, plus the archipelagos of Madeira and the Azores, regardless of their vaccination status.

To visit mainland Portugal, all arrivals must complete a passenger locator form before arrival. On arrival all visitors will have their temperature taken – a follow-up test might be required if you show signs of being unwell.

Vaccinated arrivals no longer need to take a test for entry.

There are no restrictions for travellers to Madeira and testing is not required. However, vaccine requirements might apply on the ground (see below). To visit the Azores all travellers must submit a passenger locator form and take a test before departure (PCR within 72 hours, lateral flow within 48 hours), which must be administered by a professional.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

Travellers aged 12 or over have proof of a negative Covid test, either a PCR taken within 72 hours or a lateral flow within 24 hours of entry – all tests must be carried out by a healthcare professional.

Covid passports

On mainland Portugal, there's no limit on capacity or need to show a test or certificate to enter hospitality venues, but you will need to mask up while entering and visiting the restroom.

Madeira is in a "state of contingency", meaning you must show you are fully or partially vaccinated, or have recovered from Covid-19, to enter restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Unvaccinated can show negative antigen tests, which must be renewed weekly.

Mask rules and other restrictions

Masks are not required in open, outdoor spaces and on the street, but many Portuguese are still choosing to wear masks everywhere outside the house. Masks are mandatory in all enclosed spaces. That includes shops, restaurants, gyms, public transport, at concert and event spaces and cinemas, in large commercial spaces and on flights.

Rules for children

Under-12s are exempt from testing before departure to Portugal and its islands.


Spain

  • Test-free if fully vaccinated or under 12

  • Many adults will need a booster

  • Strict mask rules

Entry rules for vaccinated

Fully vaccinated over-12s may visit Spain without tests or quarantine on arrival. However, if their second dose of a vaccine was received more than 270 days prior to travel, they will also need a booster.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

Evidence of a recent recovery from Covid (in the previous 180 days) may be used as an alternative to proof of vaccination. Unvaccinated children aged 12-17 can also show evidence of a negative test.

Covid passports

Regional governments retain legal powers to ease or tighten restrictions within their region if deemed necessary to control the spread of the virus, including the use of Covid passports. However, they have been largely ditched for entry to hotels, bars and restaurants.

Mask rules and other restrictions

The use of face coverings is mandatory for anyone over the age of six years on all forms of public transport in Spain and in many other indoor public spaces. The mask rules may vary between regions in Spain.

Rules for children

Children aged 12-17 can enter the country if they are fully vaccinated (two doses) or present evidence of recovery (no older than six months) or a negative PCR test (no older than 72 hours). Under-12s do not need to meet any entry requirements, but must follow the mask rules outlined above if aged six or over.

See our complete guide to Spain’s Covid rules.


Switzerland

  • No tests or forms for under-16s or vaccinated adults

  • Covid passports no longer required

Entry rules for vaccinated

Switzerland is welcoming fully vaccinated British arrivals without the need to self-isolate, and you no longer need to take a test to enter or complete an entry form to enter Switzerland. Your final vaccine dose must have been administered within the last 270 days prior to travel.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

Unvaccinated British arrivals can only enter Switzerland if they meet certain criteria. If you are eligible, you will need to present a negative PCR result, taken no more than 72 hours before travel, or a lateral flow test taken no more than 24 hours before travel. You must fill a Passenger Locator Form as above.

Covid passports

The Swiss government has dropped most Covid restrictions across the country. People in Switzerland no longer have to show a Covid certificate to enter bars, restaurants and other indoor venues.

Mask rules and other restrictions

Masks are no longer compulsory in shops, restaurants and other indoor spaces, but are mandatory on gondolas and cable cars. Under-12s are exempt.

Rules for children

Unvaccinated children under the age of 18 are allowed to enter Switzerland.

Switzerland is the easiest option for family skiing right now - Getty
Switzerland is the easiest option for family skiing right now - Getty

Turkey

  • No tests for vaccinated arrivals

  • Unvaccinated people can visit with a test or proof of recovery

  • No Covid pass for bars, restaurants and hotels

Entry rules for vaccinated

If you’re fully vaccinated, you can enter Turkey without taking a test or needing to self-isolate. You will just need to complete this online form no more than 72 hours before entering Turkey (if aged six or over).

Entry rules for unvaccinated

If you are not fully vaccinated, you will need to take a PCR test no more than 72 hours before entry, or an antigen test no more than 48 hours before entry, or show proof of recent recovery within the last six months. You will also need to fill in an online form (see above).

Covid passports

Vaccine certificates are only required in more crowded venues like theatres, cinemas and concerts. To enter, a printed copy of your NHS Covid Pass should suffice.

Mask rules and other restrictions

Masks are no longer required indoors or outdoors, if air circulation and social distancing are adequate.

Rules for children

Children aged 11 and under can enter without any tests. Unvaccinated children aged 12 and over must take a test to enter.


Rest of the world in detail

Dominican Republic

  • No testing for vaccinated travellers

  • Unvaccinated can visit with a test

  • All domestic Covid measures dropped

Entry rules for vaccinated

Vaccinated British adults can enter the Dominican Republic without taking a test or having to self-isolate. You will need to complete a Health Affidavit before travelling.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

Unvaccinated British adults must present evidence of a negative PCR test result, taken no more than 72 hours before travel. You will also need to complete a Health Affidavit before travelling.

Covid passports

On February 16 the Dominican Republic authorities withdrew all Covid-19 measures, including proof of vaccination, social distancing and mask wearing.

Mask rules and other restrictions

Masks are no longer a legal requirement anywhere in the Dominican Republic, although they continue to be recommended.

Rules for children

Children over the age of seven will need to show evidence of full vaccination or a negative PCR test result to enter the country. Children under seven are exempt.


Dubai

  • No tests for fully vaccinated travellers

  • Open to unvaccinated travellers

  • Indoor mask rules

Entry rules for vaccinated

Travellers who show proof of vaccination no longer need to show evidence of a recent negative test. You may need to take a PCR test on arrival, if requested.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

Unvaccinated arrivals must show evidence of a negative PCR test taken no more than 48 hours prior to departure. There is also the option to show proof of recovery from Covid within the past month.

Arrivals may be required to undertake a further test on arrival and isolate pending the result (if the result is positive, depending on their symptoms and accommodation plans, they may be required to self-isolate in a government facility, a hospital, their hotel or privately arranged accommodation for at least 10 days).

Covid passports

None.

Mask rules and other restrictions

From February 26, mask rules are mandatory in public indoor spaces but are now optional when outdoors.

Rules for children

Children under the age of 16 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement.


Egypt

  • Test-free for vaccinated adults and children under 12

  • Unvaccinated over-11s must take a test (no proof of recovery)

  • No Covid passes

Entry rules for vaccinated

Vaccinated British adults can enter Egypt without taking a test or having to self-isolate. Arrivals must complete a health declaration and may need to provide proof of travel insurance.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

Unvaccinated British adults must present evidence of a negative PCR test result taken no more than 72 hours before departure. Or, if coming from London Heathrow, 96 hours before departure. Arrivals must complete a health declaration and provide proof of travel insurance. Proof of recovery is not accepted.

Covid passports

Covid passes are not a requirement to enter establishments in Egypt. It is optional to take a PCR test on arrival in the coastal governorates of the Red Sea (Hurghada and Marsa Alam), South Sinai (Sharm El Sheikh), and Marsa Matrouh for US$30. If positive, self-isolation requirements apply.

Mask rules and other restrictions

Masks are mandatory in certain closed public spaces, including malls, retail outlets and public transport.

Rules for children

Children under 12 are exempt from vaccination or testing requirements to enter Egypt. Unvaccinated teenagers aged 12 to 18 can enter with a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before departure.


India

  • All arrivals must 'self-monitor' for 14 days

  • Vaccinated travellers no longer need to take a test

  • Weekend curfews have been relaxed

Entry rules for vaccinated

All regularly scheduled international flights remain suspended. However, under a bilateral agreement between the UK and Indian governments, a limited number of flights between India and the UK continue to operate.

Vaccinated travellers should submit a self-declaration form on the online “Air Suvidha” portal before they travel and upload a certificate of proof of vaccination. Random testing might take place on arrival.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

Unvaccinated travellers should submit a self-declaration form on the online “Air Suvidha” portal before they travel and upload proof of a negative PCR test taken within the last 72 hours. Random testing might take place on arrival.

Covid passports

None, but some extra checks are currently in place (see “Mask rules and other restrictions”, below).

Mask rules and other restrictions

Masks should be worn in all public places, but Indian states have begun reducing restrictions such as night and weekend curfews. Other measures may include the requirement to present a negative test to enter some states and random testing in public areas, including airports, stations, malls and restaurants.

Rules for children

Children under five are exempt from testing rules.


Morocco

  • Proof of vaccination and negative test required

  • Masks and Covid passports in use

  • Under-18s exempt from vaccination requirement

Entry rules for vaccinated

The Moroccan Government announced the reopening of borders for commercial flights into and out of Morocco on February 7. Travellers over 18 must present proof of vaccination, as well a proof of a negative PCR result from a test taken within 48 hours of departure. Children under six are exempt from the pre-travel testing requirement. Children under 18 are exempt from the requirement to present a vaccine pass.

Rapid antigen tests will be conducted upon arrival for all passengers, as well as PCR tests for randomly selected groups of passengers. Additional PCR tests may also be required after 48 hours of arrival for randomly selected passengers.

All passengers must download, sign and print a passenger health form before arrival in Morocco.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

Unvaccinated travellers over 18 will not be able to meet Morocco's entry rules.

Covid passports

A vaccine pass is required to enter public places including hammams, gyms, cafes, restaurants, hotels, shops and sports halls. The NHS vaccination pass is accepted.

Mask rules and other restrictions

The wearing of face masks in public spaces is mandatory.

Rules for children

Children under six are exempt from the pre-travel testing requirement. Children under 18 are exempt from the requirement to present a vaccine pass.


Peru

  • No testing for vaccinated adults or under-12s

  • Unvaccinated people can visit with a test, but cannot leave from Lima Airport

Entry rules for vaccinated

Fully vaccinated arrivals can enter without a test or having to self-isolate. You must complete an affidavit before travel.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

If you are not fully vaccinated, you must show evidence of a negative Covid-19 test issued no more than 48 hours before entry.

Covid passports

Adults are required to show proof of full vaccination to enter many indoor venues such as bars and restaurants, and on domestic flights.

Mask rules and other restrictions

Oddly, you must wear two face masks on your flight to Peru. There is a requirement to wear a mask in all public places (including outdoors), and two masks (one cloth, one surgical) or a KN95 mask in some indoor venues.

Rules for children

Under-12s can enter without proof of vaccination or a test. Covid pass only applies to adults.

There's no testing for vaccinated travellers heading to Peru - Getty
There's no testing for vaccinated travellers heading to Peru - Getty

Seychelles

  • Testing for vaccinated arrivals dropped

  • Curfew still in place

  • Open to unvaccinated travellers (with tests)

Entry rules for vaccinated

As of March 15, fully vaccinated arrivals no longer need to take a Covid-19 test prior to arrival. Seychelles will accept proof of recovery if you are not fully vaccinated. If your second dose was issued more than six months prior to arrival, you must have evidence of a booster dose.

All visitors must apply for entry through the Health Travel Authorisation (HTA) platform at seychelles.govtas.com, and all arrivals must also have valid travel insurance to cover potential Covid-19 related costs, such as isolation, quarantine and treatment.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

Unvaccinated arrivals can present a negative PCR test result taken 72 hours before travel, or a rapid antigen test taken 24 hours before departure to the Seychelles.

Covid passports

None.

Mask rules and other restrictions

The wearing of face masks is mandatory in public areas. A nationwide curfew is in place from 11pm to 4am. All shops must close at 7pm. Bars and casinos may open until 10pm.

Note that cruise ships from any country worldwide will not be permitted to berth in Seychelles until further notice.

Rules for children

Children under the age of 12 do not need to provide evidence of a negative test.


South Africa

  • Tests for vaccinated arrivals dropped

  • Open to unvaccinated travellers

Entry rules for vaccinated

Fully vaccinated arrivals can enter without taking a PCR test before arrival. You will, however, be asked to fill out a health questionnaire on the plane before you enter South Africa.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

Unvaccinated arrivals must provide a negative Covid-19 PCR result, taken no more than 72 hours before travel.

Covid passports

While a scheme was previously mooted, there is currently no requirement to prove your vaccination status for access to any venue or service.

Mask rules and other restrictions

You are legally required to wear a face mask when in an indoors public space and may face a fine for failing to do so. This no longer includes outdoor gatherings. Younger children are exempt.

Rules for children

Children under five do not require a test. Children aged 5 and over must present a PCR result or proof of vaccination on arrival.

South Africa has dropped its testing requirement for vaccinated adults - Getty
South Africa has dropped its testing requirement for vaccinated adults - Getty

Sri Lanka

  • No pre-arrival testing for vaccinated travellers

  • Unvaccinated travellers must stay in ‘tourism bio-bubble’

  • Under-12s exempt from testing requirements

Entry rules for vaccinated

Fully vaccinated arrivals need to complete a pre-travel health registration form and have proof of their inoculation in order to be granted entry to Sri Lanka. UK travellers must show a printed letter to confirm their vaccination status, rather than the NHS app. Travel insurance with adequate Covid cover is also mandatory for all visitors, plus a visa. If travelling in the company of an unvaccinated minor, aged between 12 and 18, visitors must take a test on arrival (costing $40). More information can be found on the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority website.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travellers can visit Sri Lanka but face several tests, including a PCR within 72 hours of departure. A second test must be taken on the first day of their visit, and a third on day seven of their stay in order to travel around the country unrestricted. Travel insurance with adequate Covid cover is also mandatory for all visitors, plus a visa – in order to obtain a visa visitors must have proof of a booking at a ‘Safe & Secure’ certified hotel, where they will take their tests, which they must pre-book. Once in Sri Lanka, unvaccinated travellers must stay in a ‘Tourism Bio Bubble’ at their certified hotel for the first seven days of their stay in Sri Lanka – this include visits to approved tourist sites and use of the hotel’s facilities if their on-arrival test is negative.

Covid passports

Not required.

Mask rules and other restrictions

Covid restrictions remain in force in Sri Lanka and some businesses remain closed or under curfew in some regions. Shops and supermarkets can open at one-third of capacity, as can restaurants and cafes, but masks are mandatory when out in public and social distancing measures are in place. Public events, such as carnivals and outdoor concerts are currently banned. Tourist attractions, such as temples and national parks are open to visitors, whether vaccinated or not.

Rules for children

Under-12s are exempt from testing requirements when in Sri Lanka. Children aged 12 to 18 with just one dose of a recognised vaccine will be considered "fully vaccinated". Unvaccinated children aged 12 to 18 will need to show evidence of a PCR test taken 72 hours before travel, or an antigen test taken 48 hours before travel.


USA

  • Unvaccinated adults banned

  • Some cities still have vaccine and mask mandates

  • Tests required from aged two and over, 24 hours before travel

Entry rules for vaccinated

Fully vaccinated adults from the UK can enter the United States, though everyone aged two and older will need to take a test to enter, no earlier than the calendar day before boarding their flight. A PCR or lateral flow test will be accepted. All adults must fill in an attestation form before arrival.

Entry rules for unvaccinated

You cannot enter the USA if you are not fully vaccinated, unless you fall under its category of exceptions for non-citizens. You can find more information here. All adults must fill in an attestation form before arrival.

Covid passports

It varies across the country but in some cities, such as San Francisco, those 12 and over are still required to show proof of double vaccination to access local amenities including restaurants. Many cities and states are rolling back their restrictions.

Mask rules

Masks must be worn on planes, trains, buses and at airports across the USA. States have their own face covering rules, so check before you go. Further details can be found on US.Gov.

Rules for children

Children under 18 are exempt from vaccination requirements for entry, but must take a test before departure and two more on days three and five after arrival. Under-twos are exempt from taking a test before arrival.


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