TRAVELLERS who have recently recovered from Covid will be able to enter Europe without a test as new rules kick in next week.
In a massive change set to ease travel for families, EU countries will now allow entry on passengers’ vaccination or recovery status rather than the country they depart.
People who had Covid in the last 180 days or had their second vaccine dose within 270 days will be able to enter the EU without testing.
The updated rules will allow children who caught the virus with only one dose of the vaccine to enter more freely.
Julia Lo Bue-Said, manager of Advantage Travel Partnership, told The Times the changes will come as a welcome relief to families.
Kids in the UK aged 12 – 15 currently have to wait 12 weeks before their second vaccine if they catch the virus after their first.
She said: “The fact the NHS pass will now show recovery for children is very good news and will enable families not only to visit more countries but also enjoy the facilities, such as bars, restaurants and museums, in those that require a pass.”
It is expected the loosening of the rules will trigger the “biggest booking day for travel since before the pandemic”.
Katie McAlister, chief marketing officer at the UK’s largest travel firm Tui, said renewed traveller confidence is pushing up demand.
She said: “Appetite to travel is stronger than ever and customers who may not have been abroad for more than two years are now taking advantage of flexible booking and payment options, as well as some excellent deals, to book a well-deserved summer break.
Countries are still able to impose their own border restrictions as they are needed however the framework has been accepted by all member states.
It means Brits may be going on their first holiday abroad for the first time in years this summer, after months of travel disruptions and Covid rules.
As demand soars, this could also mean prices could go up.
To make sure you’re not caught out, you can take simple steps like choosing alternative tourist destinations, being flexible with flights and opt for all-inclusive holiday.
