IMPACT – HIGH

European countries are increasingly reducing or lifting travel restrictions for U.S. residents following the European Council’s move to add the U.S. to its “green list” earlier this month.

The countries that have lifted restrictions include:

  • Belgium. As of June 21, travel restrictions have been lifted for U.S. residents. U.S. residents no longer need an Essential Travel Certificate or proof of a negative PCR test to enter the country. All travelers must complete the Passenger Health Locator Form prior to entry.
  • Czech Republic. As of June 21, travel restrictions for U.S. travelers have been lifted, and U.S. travelers can enter the country for any reason. U.S. travelers do not need to complete the Czech arrival form, undergo testing, prove vaccination status or quarantine upon arrival.
  • Denmark. As of June 19, vaccinated or unvaccinated U.S. residents can travel to Denmark for any reason, though unvaccinated travelers will be tested upon arrival. Specific travel requirements for U.S. residents intending to enter Denmark can be found here.
  • France. As of June 9, the U.S. is listed as a “green” country. U.S. residents can enter France for any reason and face no restrictions. Vaccinated individuals must present proof of vaccination and provide a sworn statement declaring that no symptoms are present. Unvaccinated individuals must present a negative PCR or antigen test conducted within 72 hours before departure and a sworn statement declaring that no symptoms are present. More information is available here.
  • Germany. As of June 20, U.S. residents are allowed to enter Germany unless traveling from a virus-variant area. Fully vaccinated or previously recovered individuals can forego quarantine and testing requirements.
  • Greece. As of May 14, U.S. citizens and permanent residents are allowed to enter Greece. For more information on specific requirements before and after arrival, visit here.
  • Italy. U.S. travelers may travel to Italy without a specific reason. Travelers must present a COVID-19 Green Certificate showing specific requirements and complete the Digital Passenger Locator Form to enter the country.
  • Netherlands. Effective on June 24, restrictions are lifted for U.S. residents. U.S. residents can travel to the Netherlands for any reason and do not have to provide a negative test result or undergo a quarantine.
  • Poland. As of June 19, U.S. residents are eligible for an entry-ban exemption, enabling entry into Poland. Upon arrival, all U.S. travelers who do not hold a quarantine exemption must undergo a 10-day home quarantine. Specific travel requirements and exemptions for U.S. residents entering Poland can be found here.
  • Portugal. As of June 15, U.S. residents can travel directly from the U.S. to Portugal for non-essential travel provided they present proof of an accepted COVID-19 test. Specific travel requirements for entering Portugal can be found here.
  • Spain. As of June 24, 2021, U.S. residents can travel from the U.S. to Spain if they present a QR code generated through the Spain Travel Health portal upon arrival. More information is available here.
  • Switzerland. U.S. citizens are permitted entry if fully vaccinated or with proof of a negative COVID-19 test or recovery from a past COVID-19 infection. More information is available here.

BAL Analysis: Recent changes in restrictions make travel from the U.S. to many European countries easier. Travelers are reminded, however, that the U.S. continues to bar entry (including re-entry) to many foreign nationals who have been physically present in the Schengen Area, Ireland or the United Kingdom in the past 14 days. The bans will remain in place until they are lifted or modified by President Joe Biden. U.S. consulates continue to operate at reduced capacity, and applicants for visas and exemptions from the COVID-19 travel restrictions should expect delays. The U.S. government also requires proof of a negative COVID-19 test from all international air travelers, including U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. Foreign nationals should continue to consult their BAL professional before planning international travel.

This alert has been provided by Berry Appleman & Leiden. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@balglobal.com.

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