Heathrow and Gatwick: Current travel advice for Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Italy
The easing of Covid measures has meant that traveling abroad is much easier. From February 11th, people entering the UK no longer need to take a day 2 test provided they are fully vaccinated. Passenger tracing forms are still in place, but Transport Secretary Grant Shapps announced plans to remove them by Easter.
However, many countries still have restrictions with different rules for vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers. It’s important to ensure you stay away from the rules before embarking on any trip. Here you will find everything you need to know about traveling to Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Italy
CONTINUE READING: Heathrow and Gatwick: Current Travel Rules for Greece, Turkey, Cyprus and Egypt
Germany
As of last week, travelers from the UK will no longer be required to register digitally before departure. All travelers aged 6 and over entering Germany from abroad must have a negative test result or proof of vaccination or recovery. For proof of recovery, a minimum of 28 days and a maximum of 90 days must have passed since the date of the positive COVID-19 test.
Travelers from the UK to Germany who are not fully vaccinated are currently not allowed to enter Germany unless they are German citizens; the spouse/life partner/child under the age of 18 of a German citizen; a resident of Germany; the spouse/life partner/child under the age of 18 of a resident of Germany; serve in an important role; or urgently need to travel.
Austria
All travelers must present either full proof of vaccination, recovery from COVID-19 within the last 180 days or a negative test to enter Austria. PCR test results are valid for 72 hours from the time of sample collection; Antigen test results are valid for 24 hours. Lateral flow self-tests are not accepted.
If you are not fully vaccinated and do not qualify for exemptions, you must show proof of recovery or have a negative test.
Switzerland
Proof of a negative test or the completion of an entry form are no longer required to enter Switzerland. If you are fully vaccinated, you can enter Switzerland without being tested or quarantined and at least 14 days must have passed since your second dose of vaccination.
Travelers who are not fully vaccinated may only enter Switzerland from the UK if they:
- Swiss or Liechtenstein nationals
- EU or EFTA nationals
Or have one of the following documents ready:
- a residence permit, i.e. a Swiss residence permit (permit L / B / C / Ci);
- a cross-border permit (permit G);
- a legitimation card from the FDFA;
- a D visa issued by Switzerland;
- Confirmation of notification for cross-border provision of services up to 90 days;
- a ‘laissez passer’ issued by the Swiss Embassy in situations of special necessity
Italy
Adult travelers must complete a Passenger Locator Form (EU PLF) to enter or transit Italy as a visitor. All visitors must also present a negative PCR test performed within 48 hours prior to entering Italy or a negative rapid lateral flow test performed within 24 hours prior to entering Italy.
If you are not fully vaccinated, are exempt from vaccination or cannot show that you are fully vaccinated, to enter Italy from the UK you will need to isolate yourself for 5 days and ensure you take a private transfer to your accommodation .
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