Travelling in Europe is now easier thanks to the new Digital COVID Certificate. From 1 July, any European citizen will be able to apply for it, but Spain is one of the countries that has already activated this digital passport to make travelling easier. We tell you what it is and how this COVID passport or European COVID certificate works.
How to obtain it?
There are 3 cases in which you can obtain a digital COVID certificate:
- Have a negative test —PCR or antigens—.
- Having antibodies from overcoming it.
- To be vaccinated.
The Ministry of Health has created this specific website to request and download the certificate.
How will it work?
You will have a QR code available on your mobile device which you can also print out and carry with you.
It will be reviewed by national authorities and will be available in English.
Is it mandatory?
No one can prevent free movement within the EU, but countries can impose restrictions. For example, they may ask you to take a test on arrival or to maintain a quarantine.
Where can you travel to?
The 27 EU countries and, in addition, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein.
Is it good for anything else?
In addition to speeding up travel within the Schengen area, countries will be free to extend its use to events, restaurants or crowded spaces.
Does it expire?
According to the European Commission, it will be valid for one year. It will also depend on when the WHO declares the end of the pandemic.
Which vaccines are authorised?
BioNTech, Pfizer, Janssen, Moderna, AstraZeneca and all those authorised by the European Medicines Agency.
And, if the country itself decides, those accepted by the WHO or by the country itself.
Do you have any doubts about the health measures that hotels are applying? We tell you about it here.
