Norway Eases COVID-19 Travel Restrictions
Norway is relaxing entry and quarantine restrictions for travelers from European countries where the risk of COVID-19 infection is low. The Norwegian government has decided to remove the distinction between necessary and unnecessary travel for visitors.
New Quarantine Guidance for Travelers
Travelers from the United Kingdom, European Economic Area (EEA), or Schengen countries with a good epidemiological situation will no longer be required to undergo hotel quarantine upon arrival. However, those traveling from areas with high infection rates or from outside Europe must complete a 10-day hotel quarantine. Fortunately, they can leave after seven days if they present a negative test result.
According to Monica Mæland, Norway’s Minister of Justice, the new rules signify a change in how the country assesses the need for quarantine hotels. Instead of focusing on travel necessity, they will monitor the infection pressure in individual countries.
Rules for Quarantine
This new policy allows travelers from European nations with fewer than 150 new infections per 100,000 people in the last 14 days to avoid staying in quarantine hotels. Instead, they can complete their quarantine at home or in another suitable location.
Mæland further stated that while the strict border measures have successfully decreased import infections, the global situation remains complex and serious. Therefore, strict entry restrictions for foreigners will continue.
Future Tourism Developments
These updated regulations will take effect on May 27 as Norway transitions into the second phase of exiting lockdown, allowing for greater domestic travel. Cultural attractions are beginning to welcome visitors again, with new venues like the Munch Museum in Oslo set to open in the autumn, along with the National Museum in 2022.
Travel Advisory
The Norwegian government advises against non-essential international travel until July, encouraging residents to vacation within Norway. Interestingly, as a non-EU member, Norway will not participate in the EU green certificate scheme in July. Instead, it plans to launch its own digital certificate for vaccinated individuals or those who have tested negative, facilitating travel to Norway.
This article has been updated to reflect the latest information regarding travel restrictions in Norway.
