EU Adopts Traffic Light System for Easier International Travel
European Union member states have recently agreed to implement a standardized “traffic light” system. This initiative aims to simplify coordination of international travel across the continent, particularly in light of the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Understanding the Traffic Light System
The new travel system is designed to make it easier for potential travelers to grasp the complex and frequently changing regulations surrounding travel. Countries will be categorized into three color-coded designations: green, orange, or red, based on infection rates and other health data.
Key factors in determining these colors will include:
- The 14-day incidence rate per 100,000 residents.
- The positivity rate of COVID-19 tests.
- Regions lacking sufficient data will be marked in gray.
What Each Color Means for Travelers
Travelers coming from regions classified as green and orange will enjoy more freedom, generally not facing quarantine requirements. However, those arriving from orange zones may be urged to present a negative COVID-19 test result. In contrast, travelers from red or gray zones will need to provide a negative test result before departure or undergo quarantine upon arrival.
Improving Clarity for Travelers
“Our right to move freely across the EU has been severely impacted by the pandemic. On top of this, citizens have been faced with so many different rules and procedures, unclear information about areas of high and low risk, and a lack of clarity about what to do when travelling,” remarked a spokesperson for the European Commission, describing the agreement as “a welcome improvement to a currently precarious situation.”
The Voluntary Nature of the System
The traffic light system is voluntary, allowing each country the discretion to participate. However, most EU nations have shown support for its adoption. Individual member states may establish their own specific requirements, including the necessity of negative test results or variations in quarantine durations. For instance, Italy requires that all visitors from high-risk regions provide a negative COVID-19 test result upon arrival.
When Will the System Launch?
The traffic light system is slated for a formal rollout next week, with data expected to be published 24 hours before the weekly update of the color-coded map. Comprehensive information regarding the traffic light system will be available on the Re-open EU web platform.
