This week the rules will change for anyone travelling to Spain, Malta and Portugal. The European Union's united approach to travel requirements is fraying, and member states are setting their own independent travel requirements. If you’ve got a holiday booked this summer, then read on to see if you could be affected.
Spain
Starting with the least restrictive, from Friday 2nd July, Spain will require arrivals from the UK to prove they have been double vaccinated or provide a negative PCR test before departure.
Vaccination travel certificates are available from the NHS if you’ve completed a complete vaccination schedule.
PCR tests must be completed 72hrs before departure for travellers who haven’t been fully vaccinated.
Portugal
A bit more restrictive – anyone who hasn't completed a full vaccination schedule within 14 days will be required to quarantine "at home or a place indicated by health authorities".
The new rules came into force at midnight on 28th June. They do not apply to the island of Madeira.
Malta
Following Portugal’s example, from Wednesday 30th June, Malta will only allow entry to travellers who have received a complete vaccination schedule.
How to prove your vaccine status?
Two weeks after having your second jab, you’ll be able to get your NHS COVID Pass. You can get it through the NHS app and the NHS website. You can also request a letter through the NHS website or by calling 119.
Full details can be found on this Government website: Demonstrating your COVID-19 vaccination status
What if you can’t travel?
If you’ve booked to visit Malta or Portugal and haven’t received the vaccine, you probably don’t fancy enforced quarantine. Unfortunately, you’ll probably need to cancel or move your trip.
Contact your airline, tour operator and hotel to get your options. Hopefully, you've booked options with free cancellation and amendments.
If you can travel, your PayingTooMuch.com travel insurance policy remains unchanged by these latest rule changes.
Travel Insurance for amber list countries
If you're planning to travel soon, PayingTooMuch.com can offer you travel insurance for holidays to amber list countries. We can even provide insurance against FCA travel advice within Europe and Covid-19 cancellation insurance. For more information, see our COVID-19 Travel Guide.
Get a quote online or call our friendly team on 01243 784000.
