Since February 1, 2022, travel within the EU and the Schengen area has been significantly simplified. The EU states have decided that it is no longer the infection figures of the country of origin that are decisive, but the vaccination status.
In concrete terms, this means that the testing obligation does not apply to vaccinated and recovered persons. However, this is only a recommendation to the EU states and country-specific regulations are possible.
Travel criteria for vaccinated persons within the EU
Persons are considered vaccinated if they have received a Corona vaccine licensed in the EU. The last dose of basic immunization must have been given at least 14 days ago. EU vaccination certificates are only valid for 270 days without booster vaccination.
After the 270-day period, persons without a current vaccination will be treated as unvaccinated when crossing borders.
Travel criteria for convalescents within the EU
Persons are considered recovered if their Corona infection occurred no more than six months ago. To obtain a valid Covid certificate, they need a convalescent certificate as proof that the first positive test result is not older than 180 days.
Travel criteria for unvaccinated persons within the EU
Revaccinated persons must present a negative PCR test not older than 72 hours when crossing the border.
Alternatively, an antigen test not older than 24 hours may be accepted.
Exemptions when traveling within the EU
Children under the age of twelve and commuters may cross borders without an EU certificate. Long-distance drivers and seafarers also do not need an EU certificate.
