Spain, France, Portugal and Italy latest travel rules as Omicron restrictions tighten

The emergence of the Omicron variant has seen some coronavirus restrictions reimposed around the world. Among these are travel restrictions, with Spain, France, Portugal and Italy reinforcing measures at their borders.

Spain

Spain, along with the Balearic and Canary Islands, are now only permitting fully vaccinated people from the UK to enter.

This means they must have both doses of an approved vaccine and be able to show evidence of this.

The full course of vaccination must have been received at least 14 days or more prior.

Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this rule if they are accompanying a vaccinated adult.

The FCDO states: “Spain will accept the UK’s proof of COVID-19 vaccination record and proof of COVID-19 vaccination issued in the Crown Dependencies.”

Unvaccinated arrivals are permitted to enter Spain if they have an “essential” reason to travel as set out by Spanish authorities.

All arrivals must fill out a Spanish health control form.

DON’T MISS
Safest country in the world to visit in 2022 [REPORT]
‘Priceless!’ Expats share why life in India is so ‘amazing’ [COMMENT]
What are the latest travel rules as plan B comes into force? [INSIGHT]

France

Britons travelling to France must show evidence of a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test taken within the 48 hours prior to travel.

This must be done regardless of vaccination status.

The FCDO warns: “Self-administered tests are not accepted.”

France is only permitting fully vaccinated arrivals for leisure purposes, unvaccinated arrivals must have an “essential” reason for their visit and will be required to undergo a series of tests and quarantine.

France will accept NHS proof of vaccination.

The FCDO adds: “Children aged 12 years old or over who are not fully vaccinated and travelling with a fully vaccinated adult are required to present a negative test result (PCR or antigen).

“In this instance, the child aged 12 years old or over does not need to provide an essential reason for travel, nor do they need to self-isolate on arrival.”

Italy

Fully vaccinated Britons are permitted to enter Italy without quarantine but must be able to provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test.

This must be either a PCR or antigen test taken within the 48 hours before entering Italy.

Arrivals are also required to fill in a passenger locator form before arriving in Italy.

Unvaccinated arrivals are required to take further tests, notify the Prevention Department of the local health authority, and remain in self-isolation for five days.