COVID-19 Travel Guidelines for Fully Vaccinated Travelers to St Lucia

The Caribbean island of St Lucia is easing COVID-19 restrictions for fully vaccinated travelers. Under the new guidelines, vaccinated travelers may enjoy greater freedom, including car rentals, dining at more restaurants, and increased access to iconic areas like Soufrière and Rodney Bay.

Enhanced Accommodations for Vaccinated Visitors

Fully vaccinated visitors can now choose from a variety of COVID-certified accommodations, including hotels, vacation rentals, and villas. Previously, travelers had limitations to select approved properties.

Official Statements from Local Authorities

St Lucia Prime Minister Allen Chastanet emphasized the importance of safe tourism, stating, “For both visitors and our local residents, our commitment to safely and responsibly coexisting with COVID remains strong.” He added that while all visitors can experience the island beautifully, fully vaccinated travelers are encouraged to explore at their leisure, following the outlined protocols.

Pre-Trip Requirements

All travelers must continue to follow pre-trip protocols, including presenting a negative PCR test taken within five days prior to arrival, regardless of vaccination status. This ensures that safety remains a priority.

Safe Management of Tourism

Since reopening its borders in June 2020, St Lucia has managed tourism effectively. As Chastanet noted, “We’ve successfully and safely managed tourism since reopening our borders, with no need to close due to our safety protocols.” This is an encouraging sign for the local tourism industry.

Airport Protocols and Health Screenings

Travelers must have had their second dose of a two-dose vaccine or a one-dose vaccine at least two weeks prior to arrival in St Lucia. Visitors should travel with their vaccination card or another form of vaccination documentation and indicate their vaccination status on the pre-arrival Travel Authorization Form.

Additionally, fully vaccinated visitors can pre-register their negative PCR test ahead of arrival. This registration allows them to use an expedited Health Screening line and receive a non-electronic identification wristband, which must be worn throughout their stay.

Testing Requirements for Minors

Unvaccinated minors over the age of five traveling with fully vaccinated adults must undergo a PCR test at their hotel on the day after arrival, at the travelers’ expense. Once a test returns negative (within 24-48 hours), those minors will enjoy the same privileges as their fully vaccinated parents. Children under four years old will receive the same access as their vaccinated parents.

Guidelines for Non-Vaccinated Travelers

Non-vaccinated travelers may still visit the country but will need to stay at one of two certified COVID-19 properties for the first 14 days of their visit. This measure aims to maintain safety for all visitors.

Ongoing Safety Protocols

Since its reopening in July 2020, St Lucia has mandated adherence to a strict set of safety protocols for all travelers and local residents, which include wearing masks and practicing social distancing. These protocols remain essential and will continue to be enforced.