With lockdown restrictions lifted throughout most of the UK and the resumption of international travel on 17 May, hopeful holidaymakers who are yet to venture from this sceptred isle are considering the prospect of foreign travel.
While the government’s ‘traffic light’ system - which categorises countries as red, amber or green based on their perceived risk and Covid-19 infection status - remains in place, it’s worth noting that there are a number of countries that currently refuse to permit unvaccinated visitors entry.
We’ve rounded them up to ensure you’re fully appraised ahead of your next trip - but be aware that rules and regulations are prone to changing at a moment’s notice, so it’s worth checking the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)’s website first.
Which countries are only permitting fully-vaccinated travellers?
Belgium
Unvaccinated travellers are only able to travel to Belgium for a “very limited set of reasons”, such as the funeral of a “first or second degree family member”, or work (for certain professions only, such as healthcare, diplomats and military personnel).
Canada
Canada is now open to fully vaccinated international travellers, who no longer need an “essential reason” to visit and will not have to quarantine on arrival.
This major change to the country’s travel rules was first announced on 19 July and came into effect at 12.01 on 7 September, with the Canadian government saying that the decision was “based on the latest available data, scientific evidence and epidemiological situation both in Canada and internationally”.
Unvaccinated visitors will not be allowed to enter Canada, however.
Czech Republic
Unvaccinated travellers are only allowed to enter the Czech Republic for essential reasons “such as for medical treatment or to attend a funeral”.
If you are the spouse or long-term partner of a Czech or EU national, you may be able to enter under certain conditions - find out more on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Switzerland
Travellers who are not fully vaccinated are only eligible to enter this landlocked nation from the UK under very limited conditions, including the possession of certain documents, such as a residence permit (L / B / C / Ci permits), or visa issued by the Swiss government. For more details, consult the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) website.
