The world is slowly but surely reopening, and for those of us who’ve spent months dreaming of international adventures, the prospect of dusting off our passports is becoming a reality. After enduring periods of sheltering in place and exploring the confines of local staycations, the allure of international travel is once again beckoning, sparking a renewed desire for fresh stamps in our travel documents.
However, the anticipated "summer of travel" didn’t unfold quite as expected. The emergence of the Delta variant, coupled with decelerating vaccination rates and a resurgence of cases across the globe, has prompted many destinations to reinstate restrictions that travelers need to be aware of. Even countries that are open to vaccinated U.S. citizens, including numerous European nations, are implementing new measures such as curfews and mandatory testing, potentially impacting travel plans.
While tempting airline deals and the prospect of exploring usually crowded destinations with fewer tourists may entice you to book a flight abroad, the ever-changing restrictions can still disrupt your arrangements. Flexibility is paramount, so consider investing in flights that offer change options if needed. Seek accommodations with flexible cancellation policies and consider focusing your vacation on a single country to minimize potential complications.
Keep in mind that regardless of vaccination status, a negative COVID-19 test result is still required to re-enter the United States.
Let’s explore some of the countries that are currently welcoming vaccinated travelers, outlining the specific requirements and considerations for each destination. These Countries Are Allowing Vaccinated Travelers to Visit, but it is important to note that travel regulations can change rapidly, so always verify the latest guidelines with official sources before making any travel arrangements.
Argentina
As of November 1, 2021, vaccinated U.S. travelers can enter Argentina without undergoing the mandatory seven-day quarantine. However, all travelers entering Argentina must complete three separate COVID-19 tests at their own expense: one before departure, another upon arrival, and a final one after being in the country for five days.
Austria
On September 15, 2021, Austria removed the U.S. from its list of "low-risk countries," but the additional entry requirements only apply to unvaccinated travelers. If you enter Austria with your CDC vaccination card, no further steps are necessary. Unvaccinated travelers must pre-register for travel clearance, present a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival, and quarantine for 10 days.
Belize
Belize offers a similar appeal to Cancun, with Mayan ruins and Caribbean beaches. However, Belize is opening exclusively to vaccinated travelers and those with a negative PCR test result. Visitors must demonstrate that they have been fully vaccinated for at least two weeks or have a negative PCR test result. International tourists must also stay in a Gold Standard Hotel, which are accommodations recognized by the government for implementing high-quality safety procedures.
Bermuda
Entry restrictions for Bermuda are relatively stringent for all travelers, but vaccination eliminates the 14-day quarantine. Even with vaccination, you’ll need up to four COVID-19 tests: one before departure, one upon arrival, one on day four of your trip, and a final one on day 10. Vaccinated travelers are exempt from quarantine unless a test result is positive. A Travel Authorization form must be completed within 72 hours before departure, with a $75 fee covering the costs of all required tests.
Canada
Canada has been closed to non-essential travel since the start of the pandemic. However, fully vaccinated foreign nationals can now plan a trip to Canada. As of August 9, 2021, American citizens and permanent residents who have been vaccinated (at least 14 days since the final dose) can enter Canada for tourism. A negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure is required, but no further testing or quarantine is necessary for vaccinated individuals. Travelers must upload their vaccine information into the ArriveCAN app before entering the country.
Chile
Chile has implemented a robust vaccination campaign. Entry has been heavily restricted since the start of the pandemic, but restrictions are loosening on November 1, 2021. Foreign travelers must have a negative PCR test result, medical insurance that covers COVID, and be fully vaccinated. A COVID-19 test upon arrival at the airport or a five-day quarantine in your residence or hotel will also be required. Upload your vaccination card onto the official website before departure.
Costa Rica
If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica, vaccination can save you money. Vaccinated American travelers can enter the country without further restrictions, while unvaccinated travelers must purchase additional travel insurance that covers COVID-19 related costs.
Croatia
Travelers can enter Croatia with a certificate of full vaccination, a negative COVID-19 test, or a medical certificate of recovery. The vaccination exemption is valid for immunizations received within 270 days (approximately nine months). If your vaccination is older, a COVID-19 test is required before arrival. An entry form is required for all travelers.
Czech Republic
The U.S. is considered a "very-high risk country" for entry into the Czech Republic, but restrictions are lessened for vaccinated travelers. Unvaccinated travelers need a negative PCR test result before arrival, another PCR test five days after arrival, and self-isolation in the meantime. Vaccination exempts travelers from these requirements.
England
As of July 29, 2021, American tourists in England who have been fully vaccinated can bypass the mandatory 10-day quarantine. Two COVID-19 tests are still required: one before arrival and another two days after arrival. These rules apply only to England, not the entire U.K.
France
Vaccinated travelers can enter France without additional steps, while unvaccinated travelers need a negative COVID-19 test. All travelers must sign a form declaring they have no COVID-19 symptoms. France requires a "green pass" to enter restaurants, bars, cafes, tourist attractions, and trains. Tourists vaccinated outside of France can obtain this pass by electronically sending copies of their vaccine card, passport, and roundtrip tickets to the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs. A QR code will be issued for use in France and around the EU. This process can be lengthy, so apply as soon as your travel plans are confirmed. A negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours can be shown in lieu of the pass.
Georgia
Foreign nationals entering Georgia with a certificate of full vaccination are exempt from the requirement of arriving with a negative test and self-quarantining. Georgia offers Caucasus Mountains scenery and Black Sea beaches.
Germany
Germany opened to American travelers on June 20, 2021, with a negative COVID-19 test or a CDC vaccination card. However, the U.S. was moved to Germany’s list of "high-risk areas" on August 15, 2021, making entry for non-vaccinated travelers more difficult. Americans without vaccinations still need to enter with a negative COVID-19 test, but they’ll also have to self-isolate in their hotel room for 10 days upon arrival. Vaccinated Americans are exempt from the self-isolation rule; just make sure to upload your vaccination card to the German health portal before your flight to avoid any hiccups at the airport.
Greece
Vaccinated American travelers can skip testing requirements for Greece. Unvaccinated travelers need at least one negative COVID-19 test to enter the country and additional tests to travel to the islands. The government has prioritized vaccinations for workers in the tourism industry.
Guatemala
Travelers fully vaccinated for at least two weeks can enter Guatemala without completing the mandatory PCR test before arrival. Travelers who can show they’ve recovered from COVID-19 within the last three months can also enter the country.
Iceland
Vaccinated travelers need a negative COVID-19 test to enter Iceland, while non-vaccinated travelers still need to complete the five-day quarantine. These Countries Are Allowing Vaccinated Travelers to Visit with varying restrictions.
Ireland
U.S. travelers can visit Ireland by showing proof of vaccination or a valid proof of recovery from COVID-19 within the past 180 days. If you have neither of those, then entry is much more complicated. Not only do you have to supply a recent negative COVID-19 test result from a PCR exam – rapid tests are not accepted – but you’ll also have to self-quarantine for up to 14 days upon arrival and take an additional COVID-19 test. You’ll also need to fill out a Passenger Locator Form before arrival.
Italy
Anyone coming to Italy who’s been in the U.S. within the previous 14 days needs to show proof of vaccination and a negative COVID-19 test (if you haven’t been vaccinated, you’ll have to quarantine on arrival for five days). You’ll also need to fill out a Passenger Locator Form, which can be done before departure. Italy is requiring a green pass – the certificazione verde –in order to eat inside restaurants, enter museums, or attend festivals, among other activities. The Italian Ministry of Health has clarified that American tourists can use their CDC vaccine card in lieu of the Italian green pass. Beginning September 1, 2021, the vaccine certificate is also required to use public transport, including long-distance trains and domestic flights.
Netherlands
As long as you’ve received the full dosage of your vaccine, you can enter the Netherlands without any pre-testing or quarantine requirements (although taking a self-test after arrival is recommended). If you don’t have a vaccination card, you’ll need to enter with a negative COVID-19 test. Regardless of vaccination status, be sure to complete the pre-travel authorization form before departure.
Portugal
Americans can visit Portugal whether they’re vaccinated or not, as long as they arrive with a negative COVID-19 test. Portugal requires a European digital vaccine pass, sometimes known as a “green pass,” which is available to residents in Europe to show they’ve been vaccinated. In high-risk cities – including Lisbon and Porto – you must either show a digital pass or a recent negative test to check in to your accommodation or eat inside a restaurant on the weekend. Because Americans don’t have a way to access this digital pass, even vaccinated travelers are effectively forced to take constant COVID-19 tests.
Puerto Rico
If you already have the full dosage, just upload your vaccine information to the online portal before landing on the island and you’re free to move around. Otherwise, you’ll have to either enter with a negative COVID-19 test result, self-isolate in Puerto Rico until you obtain one, or pay a fine. Apart from the entry restrictions, you also need to show a proof of vaccination to enter restaurants, bars, and other locales.
Seychelles
Visitors need a certificate showing that at least two weeks have passed since being fully vaccinated – meaning both shots – and also bring a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure.
Spain
Travelers must now enter with a vaccination card, a negative COVID-19 test, or a certificate of recovery. You’ll also need to complete the Spanish health form up to two days before departure, so fill it out before leaving to minimize the wait time upon arrival.
Thailand
Visitors who are fully vaccinated and have a negative COVID-19 test can fly directly into Phuket without needing to self-quarantine. If this pilot program is successful in attracting tourists without causing case numbers to go up, the Thai government plans to expand it to other popular tourist destinations by October. If you want to explore other parts of Thailand without quarantining, you just have to start in Phuket and after 14 days you’re free to travel throughout the rest of the country.
These Countries Are Allowing Vaccinated Travelers to Visit, offering a glimpse of hope for a return to normalcy and the resumption of international travel. However, responsible travel requires careful planning and adherence to the specific guidelines of each destination.
As the world continues to navigate the complexities of the pandemic, staying informed and adaptable will be key to ensuring safe and enjoyable travel experiences. Remember to consult official sources for the most up-to-date information and be prepared to adjust your plans as needed. With careful consideration and a spirit of adventure, the world awaits. Remember to check official travel advisories before planning a trip to any of These Countries Are Allowing Vaccinated Travelers to Visit.
