Traveling with a Covid Recovery Certificate
If you’ve recently recovered from Covid, you may be wondering which countries will allow entry with just a certificate. In the UK, you must wait four weeks after having Covid before getting the vaccination (whichever dose you need). However, you can receive a certificate showing that you have recovered by requesting one from your doctor or through the NHS Covid app. This recovery certificate will be active for 180 days from your positive Covid test.
So, where can you travel with proof of Covid recovery? Here’s a guide to several countries that accept such documentation.
Croatia
Croatia will accept a doctor’s certificate of recovery within the previous eight months, along with proof of a first dose of the vaccine for entry into the country. Currently, travellers do not need to show any further Covid documentation to enter. However, rules change regularly, so it’s advisable to check the government website before your trip.
Italy
Italy will accept the UK’s proof of Covid recovery and vaccination record as equivalent to a green pass, allowing access to public transport, bars, restaurants, and more. Additionally, travellers must fill out a passenger locator form before entering Italy to get a QR code to show to a travel provider and Border Police. They are also required to present evidence of a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours before entering Italy or a negative antigen test taken within 24 hours prior.
Ireland
Fully vaccinated or recovered passengers travelling from Great Britain to Ireland will need to provide proof of their full vaccination or recovery record. Ireland accepts the UK’s proof of Covid recovery and vaccination record. Travellers should also complete a passenger locator form.
Iceland
Travellers who can adequately demonstrate they have recovered from Covid infection are permitted entry into Iceland. Additionally, they should present a negative PCR or antigen (rapid) test that is no more than 72 hours old prior to flying.
Portugal
While proof of vaccination is accepted, mainland Portugal will also allow entry with a certificate of Covid recovery alongside a negative PCR or lateral flow test. Children under 12 do not need to present a test. Furthermore, it is mandatory for all passengers to fill out a Passenger Locator Card individually.
