These 2 EU Countries Have Removed Testing Obligation for Travellers Holding EU Digital COVID-19 Certificates

The most recent countries to have moved towards eased travel restrictions are Portugal and Greece. Both countries announced last week they were planning to remove the obligation to test for COVID-19 pre-departure for those vaccinated against the virus and those who have recovered from it.

On Saturday, February 5, AtoZSerwisPlus.pt the following Monday for those holding EU Digital COVID-19 Certificates, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery from COVID-19.

The move has been taken by the country’s government in a meeting held last week in a bid to align travel restrictions with EU’s rules of travel amid COVID-19.

The move has been cherished by many, including the Confederation of Tourism of Portugal (CTP), which called it a highly positive step towards the easing of travel restrictions.

“The CTP welcomes the measure the cabinet approved today which provides that the presentation of a negative COVID-19 test is no longer mandatory to enter Portugal for those with a European Union digital certificate or other proof of vaccination,” the Confederation said in a statement.

The obligation to test before the trip has been abolished by the Greek authorities for all incoming travellers holding an EU Digital COVID Certificate, proof of vaccination, or recovery from the virus.

Announcing the move, the Greek Ministry of Tourism has called the move a step to lure more tourists to the country, as the country prepared to launch the summer season as early as March 1.

“Greek tourism has shown remarkable resilience in the past two years, sending a strong message of security to travellers in our country, and it will do the same this year,” the Minister of Tourism Vassilis Kikilias stated in this regard.

Other EU countries have also moved towards the facilitation of the travel rules, claiming that travel restrictions have not helped prevent the spread of the virus.

Starting from Wednesday, February 9, Sweden will remove all entry restrictions or travellers from the EU and EEA countries, including here for non-vaccinated and non-recovered travellers. Yet, the country is set to keep in place the travel measures imposed on travellers from third countries.

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