EU Countries Requiring Booster Jabs For Travellers

Charlie Immigration updates 29 January 2022 | | 0

Amid the growing concerns over the latest coronavirus strain, it seems that the initial set of vaccination is no longer enough to combat the virus.

At least, that seems to be the belief among European countries that have in recent weeks begun requiring international visitors to show proof of a booster shot in addition to their original COVID-19 vaccine series. Travellers with upcoming plans may find that the definition of “fully vaccinated” has suddenly been altered.

The European Commission made revisions to the EU Digital COVID Certificate and declared that the certificates are now good for nine months, or precisely 270 days unless their validity is renewed through the addition of a booster vaccine.

While the EU Digital COVID Certificate is mainly for the purposes of travel within the EU bloc, it’s safe to assume that other parts of the world will follow suit. And, many European nations are already updating their own policies to reflect the changes.

Here are the European countries where the first round of COVID-19 vaccines may no longer be enough:

Austria

Previously, vaccine certificates were considered valid for 12 months however the Austrian authorities changed the regulations in early December. Now, your proof of two-dose vaccination is valid for only nine months from the final injection in the series, but it can be renewed if you’ve gotten a booster.

Officials also decided that the Johnson & Johnson single-dose vaccine won’t be recognised unless the individual has also received a booster jab.

Croatia

From 1 February, the visitor’s initial two-dose vaccine series expired if more than 9 months had passed since their completion. This would mean that any vaccine card will be considered outdated if it is over 9 months from the final jab.

France

Travellers will be required to have received a booster dose if it’s been four months or more since they completed their original vaccine series. The rule goes into effect on 15 February 2022.

Greece

Starting in February, Greece will only grant entry to travellers whose final dose of a vaccination schedule was given within the last seven months, unless they’ve also received a booster jab.

Iceland

Iceland will only admit travellers who completed their original vaccine series within the last nine months unless they’ve also received a booster.

Netherlands

From 2 February, The Netherlands will soon shorten the validity of vaccination certificates for travellers. Beginning 02 February, only those who have taken their vaccine dose within the last nine months will be allowed to enter the country. Travellers will not be required to follow strict entry rules as long as there are no testing requirements or other national regulations imposed by the government.

Individuals can get their booster shots if administered with their primary vaccination doses at least 3 months ago.

Spain

Without a booster, travellers’ original vaccinations are only considered valid up to nine months from the final injection in the series.

Switzerland

Those who wish to travel to Switzerland will not be considered fully vaccinated after 365 days of taking their second vaccine dose. Travellers will still be able to visit the destination without a Swiss vaccine passport but cannot enter public indoor spaces.

Do you need to renew your passport? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.

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