The last few months have been kind to hopeful holidaymakers – fully vaccinated Brits can now travel to dozens of destinations without taking a single test. So, where to? Here are the latest travel rule relaxations for the most popular destinations right now.
Spotlight destination: Italy
Italy is a place of pilgrimage for the finer things. Here, the world’s greatest fashion houses rub shoulders with inimitable works of Renaissance art. Wander Venice’s canals, explore Lake Garda’s colourful shores or walk the length of the Cinque Terre – fuelled by jet-black shots of espresso and some of the best gastronomy you’ll ever taste. Now that Italy has lifted all of its COVID-19 entry rules, nothing stops you from embarking on that dream adventure!
Fully vaccinated, partially vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers
Italy scrapped all of its pandemic entry requirements on June 1, 2022. This means that now everyone is permitted restriction-free entry to Italy, regardless of their country of origin or vaccination status.
Travelling with kids
Children aged 11 and under don’t need proof of vaccination or negative test to enter Turkey. All they have to do is to fill out the online form before travelling.
Best time to go: September & October
Where to stay: hotels in Rome, Milan, Venice, and Naples
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Now that Malta is welcoming tourists without any restrictions, it’s no wonder you can’t wait to rediscover this Mediterranean gem! Marvel at the brightly painted boats on Marsaxlokk’s promenade, take a refreshing dip in St. Peter’s Pool and don’t miss a visit to the Blue Grotto. If you’ve got time, treat yourself to a day trip to neighbouring Gozo island and snap some insane pictures in the Blue Hole, where you can snorkel or even dive!
Fully vaccinated, partially vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers
On July 25, 2022, Malta lifted all of its pandemic-related entry requirements for all visitors, regardless of their country of residence. Travellers entering Malta are no longer required to present a vaccination, recovery, or test certificate upon their arrival.
Travelling with kids
Zero special requirements.
Best time to go: September & October
Where to stay: Malta hotels
With its golden sandy beaches, aboriginal history and world-renowned coffee culture, it’s no wonder Australia is a dream destination for many. Grab a surfboard and enjoy the crystal-clear waves along the Gold Coast, explore the iconic Opera House in Sydney, and snorkel the Great Barrier Reef to marvel at a rainbow of colourful corals. Perth on the West Coast is also a must see, as is Uluru, the country’s famous sandstone monolith, which is sacred to indigenous Australians. From July 6, 2022, holidaymakers can visit Australia restriction-free for the first time since it reopened to fully vaccinated foreign tourists in February.
All travellers
Starting July 6, 2022, travellers to Australia no longer have to complete a Digital Passenger Declaration if arriving by air, or a Maritime Travel Declaration if arriving by sea. There is no requirement to declare or prove your vaccination status for entry to Australia. You don’t have to present a pre-departure COVID-19 test to enter or transit Australia regardless of your COVID-19 vaccination status.
However, states and territories can apply their own travel restrictions on travellers. You should check requirements for the state or territory in which you will arrive.
Travelling with kids
From July 6, 2022, children and young people are no longer required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination status to enter Australia. You should check if proof of COVID-19 vaccination status requirements are different for any transit countries you will pass through on the way to Australia, or if your airline has additional requirements.
Best time to go: September to November and March to May.
Where to stay: Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and Gold Coast
Thailand is one of the world’s top tourist destinations, so it’s no surprise it’s got so many spectacular spots and hidden gems to discover. The first images that come to mind when thinking of Thailand are white sand beaches, palm trees, and the best street food in the world. But there’s so much more to it! Thailand is also home to tropical forests, mist-covered mountains, serene shrines, incredible skyscrapers, and intriguing ancient sites. Starting July 1, you won’t have to worry about Thailand Passes and health insurance to get into the Land of Smiles. Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime?
All travellers
Thailand removes the Thailand Pass registration scheme and an US$10,000 health insurance requirement for foreign visitors from July 1, 2022. Foreign nationals are only required to show proof of either a certificate of vaccination or a negative result of a PCR or professional ATK test taken within 72 hours of travel. These can be in a print or digital format.
Fully vaccinated travellers
- Show proof of vaccination against COVID-19. Travellers must’ve been fully vaccinated for at least 14 days before the date of travel and the vaccines must be approved by the Ministry of Public Health.
Partially or unvaccinated travellers
- Show proof of a negative result of a PCR or professional ATK test taken within 72 hours of travel.
Random checks will be made on arrivals at Thailand’s international airports or land border checkpoints. Unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated travellers who are random checked and unable to show proof of a pre-arrival negative test will be required to undergo a professional ATK test at the point of entry.
Travelling with kids
Children aged 17 and under can enter Thailand under the same scheme as their parents or legal guardians, and they don’t have to show proof of vaccination. An RT-PCR test issued within 72 hours before departure is required except for under 5s.
Best time to go: November and all-year-round depending on your destination.
Where to stay: Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, and Chiang Mai
Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime as New Zealand has finally dropped tests for all arrivals! It’s hard to believe New Zealand even exists because its scenery is the stuff of legend. Make sure to put Arthur’s Pass National Park on your list. With its soaring peaks and emerald valleys, this place is perfect for tramping, as the locals call a pleasant, long hike. From Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach on the tip of North Island, you’ll have spectacular sea views. Visit the Hobbiton Movie Set where Middle-earth comes to life and don’t miss out on Milford Sound to marvel at its pristine lakes bordered by towering glaciers and snow-capped cliffs. There are tons of hidden gems in this magical country begging to be discovered!
Fully vaccinated travellers
Starting June 21, 2022, you don’t need to take a pre-departure test to enter New Zealand. Most travellers need to be vaccinated and take two rapid antigen tests after arriving.
You must:
- complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration;
- show proof of vaccination;
- take two rapid antigen tests after you arrive — the first one on Day 0/1 and the second on Day 5/6. You’ll be given a welcome pack containing RATs kit at Biosecurity once you have gone through Customs. You must report your RAT results — even if you test negative.
Partially or unvaccinated travellers
If you’re not a New Zealand citizen/resident or an Australian citizen living in New Zealand, you can only enter the country with proof of vaccination.
Any vaccine that has been approved by at least one government health authority or approval authority is approved for entry into New Zealand. To be eligible to enter New Zealand, you must have had a full course of an approved COVID-19 vaccine. A full course of some of the approved vaccines is 1 dose only.
If you transit through New Zealand, you do not need to be vaccinated or complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration.
Travelling with kids
Children aged 16 and under are exempt from the vaccination requirement to enter New Zealand.
Best time to go: August and any other month.
Where to stay: Auckland, Wellington, Queenstown, and Rotorua
Where to begin? Well, New York is only a six-hour flight away, so perhaps there. Or eat your way through the deep south. Or, those in need of nature, head west to Colorado’s mountains, Arizona’s canyons, and the sweeping Pacific Coast Highway. From dazzling cities to wild national parks to iconic beaches to impeccable food, there’s no way to get bored on a trip through the United States. With 50 states to explore, there’s so much to see and do — and it’s even easier now that the US has ditched the pre-departure tests for air travellers!
Fully vaccinated travellers
- fill in a Disclosure and attestation form;
- show proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (the NHS COVID pass is accepted);
- have no symptoms of COVID-19;
- it is also recommended that all travellers take a viral test within 3 to 5 days of arrival in the US. Those who have recovered from a documented COVID-19 infection within the past 90 days, regardless of vaccination status, don’t need to take this test.
Partially vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers
Currently, only those with an exception or US Citizens, US Nationals, and US Lawful Permanent Residents are able to enter the US unvaccinated. Those travellers who are not fully vaccinated can find out if they qualify as exempt from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Travelling with kids
Children 17 and under are exempt from showing proof of vaccination. Unvaccinated under 18s are also exempt from the quarantine requirement after arrival in the US, but they must take a test 3 to 5 days after arrival and should self-isolate if any symptoms develop or they test positive.
If a child (17 and under) is travelling with only one parent or someone who isn’t a parent or legal guardian, you may need to provide certain documents at the border.
Best time to go: July and any other month
Where to stay: New York, Los Angeles, Washington, and Chicago
Turkey is known for its marvellous destinations and breathtaking scenery fit for a fairytale. From the Ottoman palaces of Istanbul to the surreal travertines of Pamukkale and the clear waters of the Turquoise Coast, this country has so much to explore. From June 1, 2022, you can enjoy discovering Turkish delights completely hassle-free!
Fully vaccinated travellers, partially vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers
On June 1, 2022, Turkey removed all of its COVID-19 entry rules. All passengers arriving in Türkiye now are no longer required to present a vaccination certificate, proof of recovery from COVID-19 in the last six months, or a negative PCR/antigen test result. The requirement for filling out the “Form for Entry to Türkiye” was lifted in March 2022.
Travelling with kids
Zero special requirements.
Best time to go: June through September
Where to stay: Istanbul, Antalya, Kemer, and Izmir
Corfu, Santorini, Mykonos. Just three of a thousand reasons why Greece deserves its crown as Europe’s ultimate island-hopping destination. But this holiday hotspot boasts hidden gems on its mainland, too. Soak up the history and modern city life of cosmopolitan Athens, or prepare to have your mind blown by Meteora’s mountain-top monasteries.
All travellers
In July 2022, the Greek authorities established that tourists who get infected with the COVID-19 disease while being in Greece won’t be required to go into self-isolation.
From May 1, 2022, all travellers to Greece no longer have to follow any pandemic-related entry rules. This means that all visitors, regardless of their country of origin, can enter Greece without having to provide any COVID-19 proof — a vaccination, recovery, or test certificate — upon their arrival.
Travelling with kids
Zero special requirements.
Best time to go: July, August & September
Where to stay: Athens, Corfu, Mykonos, and Santorini
France is the most visited country in the world for a lot of reasons. It’s the birthplace of Chanel, champagne, Camembert cheese, cognac. Its geography spans snow-capped peaks, rolling vineyards, windswept surf spots and private Mediterranean coves. And that’s without even mentioning the leafy squares and street-corner cafe terraces of Paris, which might just be the most romantic city on earth.
Fully vaccinated travellers
From March 31, 2022, fully vaccinated British travellers no longer need to complete a ‘sworn statement’ (déclaration sur l’honneur) before they enter France.
This means, fully vaccinated arrivals can now visit the country with proof of vaccination alone. Your final vaccine dose must’ve been administered at least 7 days prior to travel for Oxford/AstraZeneca, Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna, or 28 days after a single dose of Johnson & Johnson.
Partially or unvaccinated travellers
On March 31, 2022, France officially put the UK back on its green list after a months-long ban and eased travel restrictions for non-vaccinated Britons.
Unvaccinated travellers are no longer required to have a compelling reason to visit France. They don’t have to quarantine on arrival either.
However, partially or non-vaccinated tourists travelling to France must present a negative test to enter. This can either be a 72-hour PCR or a 48-hour TAG (antigen) one.
Travelling with kids
Under 12s are exempt from all COVID-19 travel restrictions. Children aged 12 to 18 should follow the standard rules for vaccinated and unvaccinated adult travellers.
Best time to go: April, May, June & September
Where to stay: Paris, Nice, Marseille, and Bordeaux
“Spain” and “sun-kissed holidays” go together like sea and sand. Now, with the entry ban on unvaccinated tourists finally lifted after over two years, the whole family can take in the relaxed vibes of Barcelona, marvel at its Modernist architecture, and indulge in tantalising Spanish cuisine. Feeling like a real explorer? Try island hopping around the Balearics. Mallorca, Menorca, Formentera and Ibiza have lots to offer for those seeking adventure, sun-soaked beach days, and luxurious cocktail parties on super yachts.
Fully vaccinated, partially vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers
On May 21, 2022, Spain lifted the entry ban on unvaccinated tourists from third countries, finally permitting them to enter the country after more than two years.
Britons and other travellers from countries outside the EU can now enter Spain for non-essential purposes if they can show a certificate of vaccination, or proof of recovery from the virus, or negative COVID-19 test results. The test can be either a PCR one carried out within 72 hours before departure or an antigen test taken within 24 hours before you’re off for Spain.
All travellers must fill in and sign an online Health Control Form. This applies to everyone, including under 12s.
If you test positive for COVID-19 in Spain, you don’t have to self-isolate. However, you should inform your direct contacts and take extra precautions for 10 days after diagnosis or from when symptoms started. Wear a face covering, reduce social interaction, and stay away from large events and crowded places. You should also minimise contact with people who are deemed high risk.
Travelling with kids
Under 12s don’t have to present a vaccination, recovery, or test certificate. However, those 12 and over must follow the same rules as adults.
Best time to go: June & September
Where to stay: Madrid, Barcelona, Tenerife, and Seville
There are many reasons why the Czech Republic is one of the most attractive Europe’s destinations. With entry restrictions lifted for all travellers, there’s now one more compelling reason to head up there for your next trip! Relax at the country’s world-famous spas, enjoy Pilsner beer that flows like a river, marvel at Prague’s fairytale castles and don’t miss out on the astronomical clock created more than a century before Shakespeare was born.
Fully vaccinated, partially vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers
Starting April 9, 2022, the Czech Republic lifted entry restrictions for all travellers, regardless of where they’re travelling from. Visitors don’t have to fill in arrival forms or produce proof of vaccination.
The country has also relaxed some of its domestic pandemic-related rules. People are no longer required to wear a face mask or present a valid COVID-19 pass when attending public places and events.
Travelling with kids
No special requirements.
Best time to go: April, May, June & September
Where to stay: Prague, Český Krumlov, Brno, and Karlovy Vary
Denmark has made some huge contributions to the world of play, joy, and make-believe. Follow that half-forgotten carefree feeling and come re-discover Denmark in 2022! Here you can explore the home of Lego, marvel at the disappearing lighthouse at Rubjerg Knude or simply sip a cold beer on a hot day at one of Nyhavn’s restaurants. You might be surprised to hear that Denmark also boasts some of Europe’s biggest and most spectacular beaches. And the 40km-long Blåvand Beach near Hvide Sande in West Jutland is only the beginning of this list.
Fully vaccinated, partially vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers
From March 31, 2022, Denmark scrapped all remaining COVID-19 restrictions, both entry rules and domestic guidelines.
Travelling with kids
There are no COVID-19-related requirements regarding test or self-isolation for children when entering Denmark.
If you’re travelling to the Faroe Islands or Greenland, different entry rules may apply.
Where to stay: Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense, and Skagen
The world’s tallest building towers above shiny shopping malls and some of the most luxurious hotels on the planet. But there’s more to the seven emirates of the UAE than Dubai, from its forward-thinking cultural capital Abu Dhabi to the parched desert of Ras Al Khaimah, backed by the Hajar Mountains – the highest mountain range in the region.
Fully vaccinated travellers
From February 26, 2022, fully vaccinated British travellers no longer need to take a COVID-19 PCR test before travel. There are, however, different rules depending on where in the UAE you’re travelling to.
Entry to Abu Dhabi if you’re fully vaccinated
- Vaccination status is not a condition of entry;
- Visitors must register via the ICA Smart Travel Service before travel;
- All travellers are required to have a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival but they don’t have to quarantine;
- Those staying in Abu Dhabi are required to download the Al Hosn App and take further PCR tests.
Abu Dhabi entry rules may change at short notice. Please check the current requirements on the Abu Dhabi Media Office website as well as the Emirates News Agency website and the Etihad Airlines website.
Entry to Dubai if you’re fully vaccinated
- Get international health insurance before travelling and adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine;
- Present a valid vaccination certificate with a QR code;
- If requested, undergo a PCR test on arrival in Dubai and self-quarantine until receiving a negative result.
Partially or unvaccinated travellers
From February 26, 2022, travellers don’t need a COVID-19 PCR test before they travel if they have a COVID-19 recovery certificate with a QR code dated within 30 days of departure. Minors and people with severe disabilities can also enter without a pre-departure test. There are different rules depending on where in the UAE you’re travelling to.
Entry to Abu Dhabi if you’re not fully vaccinated
Starting February 26, 2022, unvaccinated British travellers are required to take a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival to Abu Dhabi. Read more on the Etihad Airlines website. Abu Dhabi entry rules may change at short notice. Please check the current requirements on the Abu Dhabi Media Office website and the Emirates News Agency website.
Entry to Dubai if you’re not fully vaccinated
Starting February 26, 2022, unvaccinated British travellers may be required to take a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival in Dubai. Read more on the Emirates Airlines website. Dubai entry rules can change at any moment. You can also check the current requirements on the Emirates News Agency website.
Travelling with kids
Children under 12 years arriving in Dubai or under 16 years arriving in Abu Dhabi are exempt from the testing requirements.
Best time to go: April, October, November & December
Where to stay: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, and Ras al-Khaimah
Now that Austria has lifted all of its COVID-19 entry restrictions, it’s the perfect time for your next unforgettable city break. The jewel in Austria’s crown, Vienna isn’t just full of classical music and opera, but it also boasts ornate palaces, art galleries and museums, traditional coffee houses, and a great food scene. Also, this country seems to have a mountain gem around every corner — visit Hallstatt, Alpbach and other postcard-perfect towns and villages to see it for yourself!
Fully vaccinated, partially vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers
On May 16, Austria lifted all of its COVID-19 entry rules. Currently, entry requirements for Austria are the same for all travellers, regardless of their vaccination status: no proof of negative tests or vaccination/recovery needed.
Travelling with kids
There are no specific requirements for children and young people.
Best time to go: June, July & August
Where to stay: Vienna, Salzburg, Graz, and Hallstatt
Whether it’s a long weekend or the perfect remote working location you’re after, Portugal may just be it. Wind your way through Lisbon’s tile-clad streets, wine and dine your way through the delicious northern city of Porto, or simply soak up the sun in the Algarve. For the most ‘grammable experience, fly the extra mile to the colourful island of Madeira.
Recently, Portugal confirmed that all UK travellers can use the e-gates alongside EU citizens, rather than waiting in line with other non-EU arrivals. This means that all Britons entering Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Funchal and other stunning spots in the country will now be able to skip those long queues for manual checks!
Fully vaccinated, partially vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers
From July 1, 2022, Portugal scrapped all of its COVID-19 entry restrictions.
Travelling with kids
Under 11s don’t need to take a test or show proof of vaccination or recovery to enter mainland Portugal and the Azores.
Best time to go: May through September
Where to stay: Lisbon, Porto, Faro, and Coimbra
Germany’s a cultural feast, from the pristine canals of Hamburg to the capital city Berlin, which thrums to techno drum beats and where vegan kebabs are almost as ubiquitous as Turkish ones. And outside of the cities, a landscape of thick forests, thermal springs, romantic rivers and Alpine glaciers await in this top destination, just begging to be hiked and cycled across.
Fully vaccinated travellers
- Show proof of vaccination. Your final vaccine dose must’ve been administered at least 14 days before travel. Evidence of your COVID-19 vaccination status can be provided digitally (through the NHS app or NHS website) or as a printout (this can be requested from the NHS by calling 119).
Partially or unvaccinated travellers
Unvaccinated British travellers can’t enter Germany unless they’re German citizens, residents, or their families, serve in an important role or have an urgent need to travel. All permitted unvaccinated or unrecovered travellers aged 12 or over from the UK must present a negative COVID-19 test result. This can either be a PCR test that is less than 48 hours old at the time of departure, or a rapid antigen or another test sample that is less than 48 hours old at the time of entry.
Travelling with kids
Children under 11 are allowed into Germany from the UK as long as at least one parent is fully vaccinated. Those 12-17 can only enter if they’re fully vaccinated, residents or children of residents, or have an urgent need for travel. If they’re allowed in and unvaccinated, they must have proof of a negative COVID-19 test or recovery.
Where to stay: Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and Cologne
This lush-green island is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, from the spectacular Cliffs of Moher to the beautiful lakes of Killarney National Park and the well preserved sixth-century monastery on Skellig Michael island. But don’t forget its bustling cities: the capital Dublin is a living museum of historic castles, medieval cathedrals, Georgian streets and many hundreds of pubs.
Vaccinated, partially vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers
From March 6 2022, travellers don’t need to show any proof of vaccination, recovery or a negative test or fill out the Irish passenger locator form. There are no post-arrival tests or quarantine requirements either, so you can travel to Ireland without any hassles.
Travelling with kids
Starting March 6, 2022, there are no special COVID-related requirements for children travelling to Ireland.
Best time to go: April, May, June
Where to stay: Dublin, Galway, Cork, and Kilkenny
Croatia is one of Europe’s finest summer destinations for a lot of reasons. From Pula to Dubrovnik, its rugged coastline is dotted with islands and boasts stunning beaches and coves with crystal-clear water. You’ll get to see the unique natural phenomenon of the Blue Cave and one of the world’s largest Roman amphitheatres along the way. Then there’s Croatian cuisine, which is bursting with fresh seafood and mouth-watering flavours.
Fully vaccinated travellers
- Complete an online entry form;
- Show proof of vaccination. If you’ve been fully vaccinated within the last 270 days, you can enter Croatia without needing to test or quarantine. At least 14 days must’ve passed since your second dose of a two-dose vaccine course or since receiving a one-dose vaccine. All vaccines must be approved by the WHO. Croatia also accepts a certificate showing a booster dose.
Partially or unvaccinated travellers
- Complete an online entry form;
- Present a negative result of a COVID-19 antigen test taken no more than 24 hours before entry, or;
- Present a negative PCR test result not older than 72 hours, or;
- Show a doctor’s certificate of recovery from COVID-19. This must be older than 11 days but not older than 180 days before arrival.
Travelling with kids
Сhildren under 12 can enter Croatia without proof of vaccination, recovery, or any tests when accompanied by a parent or guardian who has one of the documents listed above.
To get into public spaces in Croatia, you’ll need a COVID pass that can be activated by a test or vaccine.
Where to stay: Dubrovnik, Zagreb, Split, and Zadar
If you’re fully vaccinated, you can also visit the following countries without taking a test:
Canada, Switzerland, Netherlands, Estonia (check out the dreamy capital of Tallinn), Egypt, India, The Dominican Republic, Mexico and Costa Rica.
Find out more about testing for travel. Or check the UK Foreign Office Travel Advice for detailed entry requirements for specific countries. The rules can change pretty quickly, so set up an alert for your favourite destinations, so we can notify via email you as soon as something changes.
The world is waiting to be rediscovered, and these are just a handful of the top destinations that are calling you back. Book your flights, hotels and car rentals on Skyscanner and you’ll be ready to go.
Start planning your next adventure now
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