Do children need a booster for travel in Europe this summer? Can unvaccinated children travel? Here's what you need to know as the European Union (EU) introduces flexible travel rules for people under the age of 18.
Across the EU, tourists who completed their primary jabs more than 270 days ago need a booster to enter countries such as France, Spain and Italy— or be considered unvaccinated and therefore subject to additional rules such as testing.
This recommendation was introduced by the European Commission (the legal arm of the EU) on February 1 under the EU Digital COVID Certificate regulation. Most EU member states adopted it, though some, such as Ireland, Denmark and Sweden, have since scrapped all COVID-19 entry requirements at their borders.
What it's like for Americans proving they are vaccinated in Europe
This week, the Commission introduced new rules on the EU digital COVID certificate that exempt children under the age of 18 from the 270 days acceptance period following the primary vaccination series. This means that children are considered fully vaccinated after having received their primary dose; whether that's a two-shot vaccine series or a one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
By April 6, this new feature will be included in the mobile app used to verify EU Digital COVID Certificates so that children's certificates remain active without the booster.
In a statement, Commissioner for Justice, DidierReynders, said: "One of the biggest benefits of the EU Digital COVID Certificate is its flexibility to adapt to new circumstances.Following discussions with member states' public health experts, we have decided that the vaccination certificates of minors should not expire.When travelling, they will be able to continue using the certificate received after the primary series of vaccination."
This exemption applies to EU and Schengen Zone citizens and residents traveling within Europe, though some countries can adopt their own entry restrictions regardless of the Commission's ruling.
If you plan to travel to Europe with kids this summer, here's what you need to know about the latest entry rules and how they apply to you, even if you're traveling from countries outside of the EU like the UK and the US.
Can unvaccinated children travel to Europe?
Generally speaking, yes. Children under 12 are typically exempt from vaccination requirements in most countries but many require that children between the age of 12 and 18 have received the primary vaccine course to avoid testing rules.
What countries in Europe have scrapped COVID-19 entry restrictions?
Andorra, Denmark, Hungary, Lithuania, Iceland, Ireland, Montenegro, Norway, Poland, Romania, Slovenia, Sweden, and the United Kingdom have recently dropped all pandemic restrictions at their borders, meaning people no longer have to show vaccination certificates or negative tests to enter these countries, regardless of where they are coming from.
Countries in Europe with travel restrictions
Here are some of the destinations in Europe that still require proof of vaccination, recovery or a negative test from travelers.
Austria
People over the age of 12 need one of the following: proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory 270 days after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days); or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test.
Boosters are not required for those under 18 to be considered fully vaccinated.
See more: Austria Entry Requirements
Belgium
Generally, people traveling from the EU/Schengen area can present proof of vaccination (booster mandatory 270 days after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days) or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (36 hours) test.
People from outside the EU or an area categorized as high-risk must present proof of vaccination. Children under 18 can present proof of recovery or a negative test. Children under 12 are exempt.
Belgium's rules vary depending on the COVID-19 risk associated with your departing country.
See more: Belgium Color Codes by Country
Croatia
People need one of the following: proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory 270 days after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days); or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test.
Children under the age of 12 are exempt from testing.Boosters are not required for those under 18 to be considered fully vaccinated.
See more: Visit Croatia
Cyprus
People over the age of 12 need one of the following: proof of vaccination (booster mandatory seven months after primary vaccine course) or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test. People also have to take a PCR on arrival and isolate while awaiting results.
Children under the age of 12 are exempt from testing. Boosters are not required for those under 18 to be considered fully vaccinated.
See more: Visit Cyprus
Estonia
People must present proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory nine months after primary vaccine course) or recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days) to bypass additional restrictions. Unvaccinated travelers from the EU and approved countries including the UK and US must isolate for seven days upon arrival.
Children under the age of 12 are exempt from entry rules.
See more: Estonia Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Germany
People traveling from the EU, Schengen Zone or approved countries including Hong Kong, New Zealand and South Korea can present one of the following: proof of vaccination; recovery certificate (older than 28 days, but no lessthan three monthsold) or a PCR (48 hours) or antigen (48 hours) test. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from testing.
People traveling from outside the EU, including the UK and the US, must be vaccinated to enter Germany. Unvaccinated 6-11 year olds can enter with a vaccinated parent; unvaccinated accompanying over-12s can provide a negative PCR or antigen test.
See more: Government of Germany
Greece
People traveling from the EU, US, UK, Canada, Australia, and other approved countries need to present one of the following: proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory seven months after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days); or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test.
Children under five are exempt from all entry requirements. Boosters are not required for those under 18 to be considered fully vaccinated.
See more: Greece Ministry of Tourism
Finland
There are no entry rules for those traveling from the EU and Schengen Zone countries. However, people coming from third countries such as the UK and the US must provide proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory nine months after primary vaccine course) or recovery certificate (issued within the past six months).
Children born in 2007 or later are exempt if accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult.
See more:Finland Border Guard
France
People must present one of the following: proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory nine months after a primary vaccine course) or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (48 hours) test.
Children under 12 are exempt. Boosters are not required for those under 18 to be considered fully vaccinated.
See more:French Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Italy
People need to present one of the following: proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory seven months after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days); or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (48 hours) test.
Children under the age of six are exempt from testing.Boosters are not required for those under 18 to be considered fully vaccinated.
See more:Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
Latvia
People over the age of 12 need one of the following: proof of vaccination (second dose administered at least 14 days prior to travel); recovery certificate; or negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (48 hours) test.
See more: Discover Latvia
Luxembourg
People need one of the following: proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory nine months after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past six months); or a negative PCR (48 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test.
Children under the age of 12 are exempt.
See more:Visit Luxembourg
Malta
People must present proof of vaccination with a booster to travel to Malta.
Children between the ages of five and 11 must present a negative PCR test (72 hours). Children under five are exempt.
See more:Visit Malta
Netherlands
There are no entry rules for people traveling from the EU/Schengen area or countries participating in the EU travel rules scheme. People from elsewhere, including the US and UK, must present proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory 270 days after primary vaccine course) or a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days but no earlier than 11 days).
Children under 12 traveling to the Netherlands from outside the EU/Schengen area must show a negative PCR (48 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test.
See more: Government of Netherlands
Portugal
People over the age of 12 need one of the following: proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory 270 days after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days); or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test.
Boosters are not required for those under 18 to be considered fully vaccinated.
See more: Visit Portugal
Slovakia
People traveling to Slovakia must show proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory nine months after primary vaccine course).
Children under the age of 12 are exempt.
See more: Slovakia Information Centre
Spain
People traveling from the EU can show proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory nine months after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days) or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test.
People traveling from outside the EU must show proof of vaccination or recovery only (unless traveling to Balearic Islands where proof of vaccination is mandatory).
Children under 12 are exempt from vaccination requirements. Unvaccinated 12 to 17-year-olds can present a negative PCR (72 hours) test.
See more: Spain Ministry of Health
Switzerland
People traveling to Switzerland must show proof of vaccination ( booster mandatory 270 days after primary vaccine course) or a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days).
Children under 18 are exempt.
See more: Switzerland Travel Check
Turkey
Most people need to present one of the following: proof of vaccination; a recovery certificate (issued within the past six months but no less than 28 days); or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (48 hours) test.
Children under the age of 12 are exempting from testing.
People from high-risk countries are subject to stricter rules including quarantine if they're unvaccinated.
See more: Visit Turkey
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FAQs
Do you still need to be vaccinated to go to Europe? ›
Travellers should be allowed to enter the EU if they meet one of the following conditions: they have completed the full primary vaccination series of a COVID-19 vaccine approved by the EU or the World Health Organization (WHO) and fewer than 270 days have passed since the completion of that series.
What vaccinations do I need for Europe? ›Vaccine Recommendations
Travel to Europe is a good opportunity to update the combined tetanus/diphtheria/whooping cough vaccine if more than 10 years since previously vaccinated. Measles, meningococcal, influenza, and pneumonia vaccines may also be appropriate.
All non-immigrant, non-U.S. citizen air travelers to the United States are required to be fully vaccinated and to provide proof of vaccination status prior to boarding an airplane to the United States.
What shots do you need to go abroad? ›- COVID-19.
- Chickenpox.
- Cholera.
- Flu (Influenza)
- Hepatitis A.
- Hepatitis B.
- Japanese encephalitis.
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- Passport or identity card. Children must have their own passport or ID card. You will not need a visa for travelling within the EU. ...
- Passport. You will need a valid passport.
- Visa. There are more than 60 countries and territories whose citizens do not need a visa to visit the EU for up to 90 days.
Much of Europe is open to Americans, including more than two dozen countries without any COVID restrictions at all. However, it's important to double-check before traveling in case requirements change. If you're vaccinated, most countries are open to you as long as you can show proof of vaccination.
What countries require yellow fever vaccine? ›Countries that require vaccination for all travellers older that 9 months or 1 year: Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameron, Central African Republic, Congo, Côte d'lvoire, DRC, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Niger, Togo.
What vaccines do I need for Western Europe? ›What Vaccines Do I Need for Western Europe? The NaTHNaC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for travellers to Western Europe: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies and tickborne encephalitis.
Should I get a flu shot before traveling to Europe? ›People who are travelling are recommended to receive influenza vaccine, especially if influenza is circulating in the destination region or in settings with increased risk of influenza circulation during the trip, such as: travellers in large tourist groups (especially those including older people)
What does fully vaccinated mean? ›The CDC uses the term “up to date” regarding vaccines and boosters when eligible. Individuals are considered “fully vaccinated” (1) two weeks after receiving the second dose in a two dose COVID-19 vaccine series or (2) two weeks after receiving a single dose COVID-19 vaccine.
Will i need COVID vaccine to travel to usa 2023? ›
As of 12 May 2023, there are no COVID-19 vaccination requirements for travel to the United States.
What is the youngest age for COVID vaccine in the US? ›For the best protection, CDC recommends COVID-19 vaccines for everyone 6 months and older. COVID-19 vaccines available for children include: Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines.
Do you really need vaccines to travel? ›Get Vaccinated Before You Travel. It's important to plan ahead to get the shots required for all countries you and your family plan to visit. Protect your child and family when traveling in the United States or abroad by: Getting the shots required for all countries you and your family plan to visit during your trip.
Do you need proof of vaccine to travel to us? ›As of 12:01 am EDT May 12, 2023, noncitizen nonimmigrant air passengers no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated with an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to board a flight to the United States. See more information.
How do you carry money when traveling? ›Keep cash in places that only you can reach easily, such as front pant pockets or inside jacket pockets. You can also attach your wallet to your belt with a small chain for extra security. Storing cash and other valuables in handbags and backpacks can also put you at risk of being robbed.
What do I need as an American to travel to Europe? ›With a valid U.S. passport, you can stay up to 90 days for tourism or business during any 180-day period. Do not overstay! You must wait an additional 90 days before applying to re-enter the Schengen area. To stay longer than 90 days, you must have a visa.
What do I need to know when traveling to Europe for the first time? ›- Try and master a few phrases in the local language. ...
- Learn about and respect the local customs. ...
- Sign up for a credit card with no foreign transaction fees.
- Notify your bank that you will be away and make sure that your debit cards can be used in Europe.
As of June 12, 2022, the requirement for presenting proof of a negative viral test result before entering the U.S is suspended.
What is one of the safest countries to visit? ›The safest country in the world is currently Austria, followed by Germany and Denmark. There have been few changes at the top of the table for years. Iceland, in particular, which is remote and only relatively sparsely populated, has always been right at the top.
Which is safest European country? ›Iceland. Consistently topping the Global Peace Index since 2008, Iceland is a Nordic island nation known as one of the world's happiest, safest, and most satisfied countries. Iceland is also the only NATO member without a standing army, navy, or air force.
Is Europe safer than USA? ›
Yes, Europe is typically safer than the USA. In fact, 13 of the world's top 20 safest countries are located in Europe. In contrast, the United States ranks in 129th place on the latest Global Peace Index. That's lower than Egypt, Zimbabwe, and Republic of the Congo.
Do I need a vaccine to travel to Germany? ›Entry to Germany is permitted for all travel purposes (including tourism and visits). It is no longer necessary to present proof of vaccination, proof of recovery or a negative test result for entry to Germany. Please see here for further information on travel restrictions.
Are vaccines required to travel to France during the COVID-19 pandemic? ›Since 14 March 2022, the “vaccine pass” has been lifted in France in all areas where it was previously required (cultural and leisure venues, commercial catering, professional trade shows, etc.). Similarly, the COVID certificate is no longer required as of 1 August 2022.
Do you need to be vaccinated to go into Spain? ›1. COVID-19 vaccination certificate, which must meet the following requirements: Have completed the last recommended dose of vaccination at least 14 days before traveling to Spain.
Do you have to be vaccinated to go to England? ›From 4am, Tuesday 7 December all people aged 12 years and over must also take a PCR or LFD COVID-19 test before they travel to England from abroad. People who qualify as fully vaccinated must quarantine and take a PCR test before the end of day 2 after they arrive in England.
What do I need to travel to Germany from USA? ›- You must have a valid passport or travel document.
- You need to be able to explain the reason for your visit to Germany.
- You must have financial means to sustain yourself, both for the duration of your intended stay and your return to the US.
“Entry of tourists in Greece is not subject to vaccination. Presenting a vaccination certificate greatly facilitates the procedures upon arrival.
Is PCR test required to travel to Germany? ›Is a negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) required for entry? Travelers who have been in an RKI-designated virus-variant area in the last 10 days must present a negative PCR test, not older than 48 hours, regardless of vaccination or recovery status.
Does Italy require proof of vaccination to enter? ›Persons entering Italy without a certificate of vaccination with an EMA-approved vaccine will have to self-isolate for 5 days under the supervision of the health authority, after which it shall be necessary to take a new Covid test.
Do I need to have a Covid test to enter Spain? ›-Negative COVID test: A negative Nucleic Acid Amplification test (PCR, TMA, LAMP, NEAR, etc.) taken within 72 hours of departure for Spain, or a negative rapid antigen test (RAT) taken within 24 of departure for Spain, will be accepted.
Is a PCR test required to enter France? ›
Travellers are no longer required to present a sworn statement of non-contamination and an undertaking to undergo an antigen test or screening upon arrival in the country.
Can I enter the US without a COVID-19 vaccine? ›This means that as of 12:01 a.m. EDT on May 12, 2023, noncitizen nonimmigrant air passengers no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated with an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to board a flight to the United States.
Can a US citizen travel to Spain? ›US citizens enjoy visa-free travel to Spain. As such, US citizens do not need a visa to go to Spain. Currently there is no Spain Visa for US citizens, unless you're a US Green Card Holder.
Do I need a COVID test to enter the US? ›COVID-19 testing and vaccine rules for entering the U.S.
As of June 12, 2022, people entering the U.S. no longer need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test.
You must have a valid passport to enter the UK. It should be valid for the whole of your stay. You may also need a visa, depending on which country you're from.