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It's almost time to stock up on cheese and chocolate! Switzerland is the latest European country to announce its plans to let in vaccinated third-country travellers this month – including those from the United States, United Kingdom and Canada.
According to a recent proposal, travellers from countries outside the EU who can prove that they have been vaccinated against Covid-19 will no longer be subject to entry restrictions. Starting June 28, these visitors will no longer be required to quarantine or undergo pre-arrival testing, though all travelers who enter the country by air will still have to complete an online entry form.
The plan will also significantly relax border restrictions for travellers from the Schengen Area countries. This means that all persons entering Switzerland from a Schengen country will no longer be required to self-isolate upon arrival.
Switzerland does still have a 'red list' of countries with virus mutations that includes Brazil, Canada, India, Nepal, South Africa and the UK, but visitors from those countries will still be allowed to skip testing and quarantine requirements if they have been vaccinated or can prove that they've recovered from Covid.
The requirement to present a negative test result will only remain mandatory for persons who have not been vaccinated yet or those who have been vaccinated with a vaccine that has not been approved by the Swiss authorities.
Ready for your hot European summer? Spain and France have already opened their borders, while Ireland plans to do so next month.
Remember, many countries are still warning against all non-essential travel and some are quarantining all overseas arrivals, including their own returning citizens. Check all the relevant restrictions before you think about travelling.
Where can you travel right now? Here’s what you need to know.