Netherlands scraps last Covid entry requirements

The changes, which came into force the following day (17 September), mean that no Covid-19-related restrictions or requirements apply to any travellers entering the Netherlands, including those from countries outside the EU/Schengen Area.

This includes those from ‘third countries’ – outside the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) – who were previously still required to present proof of vaccination, or a certificate of recent recovery to enter the Netherlands.

The Dutch government lifted the restrictions in response to the ‘current epidemiological situation in the Netherlands’, for which it said that the rules were ‘no longer proportional’.

Spain removes some Covid-19 entry requirements, extends others

Spain no longer requires inbound travellers to complete a health control form or show a Spain Travel Health QR code at airports. The online Spain Travel Health portal has also been taken out of operation – the changes became effective on 20 September.

However, the government has also chosen to extend its remaining Covid border requirements for third country travellers until 15 November.

The restrictions include a requirement for all ‘third country’ visitors over the age of 12 to present proof of full vaccination, or a recent negative Covid test or certificate of recovery upon arrival in Spain. While both PCR and antigen tests are accepted, the former must be taken within 72 hours of arrival, while the latter can be within 24 hours.

Vaccinated individuals who received their course of primary vaccination earlier than 270 days are required to receive a Covid booster shot to be considered fully vaccinated.

Spain previously lifted its total ban on unvaccinated travellers in May 2022.