20th August 2021
Countries, such as Sweden, are publishing clear guidance on their vaccination requirements. This eases the process of working globally and encourages international contractors to look at opportunities in these countries once again.
At the time of writing infection rates across Europe continue to vary with Spain still hard hit, while other countries tighten up their entry requirements. As an international contractor keeping up-to-date with the restrictions and entry requirements is essential. Here’s the summary of the most recent changes across Europe.
Covid-19 Vaccine update if you’re contracting in Sweden
For those contracting in Sweden, the authorities have publicised their clear vaccine requirements making it easier to travel to work in Sweden.
After the announcement from the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) that the Covid-19 situation has significantly improved Swedish authorities have publicised the list of approved vaccines approved for travel.
The Swedish Police have confirmed that as long as the jab has been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) or the World Health Organisation (WHO) Emergency Use Listing then Sweden will accept it as proof of vaccination.
That means the following are all accepted for travel to Sweden:
- AstraZeneca (Vaxzevria)
- Pfizer (Comirnaty)
- Johnson & Johnson (Janssen)
- Moderna
- Sinopharm BIBP
- CoronaVac by Sinovac Life Sciences
- AstraZeneca-SK Bio (Vaxzevria)
- AstraZeneca-Serum Institute of India (Covishield)
It’s important to note that Sweden only accepts EU Covid Vaccination Certificates issued by EEA countries, Switzerland, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, the Vatican City State or any other country on the epidemiologically safe countries.
Those arriving from a country whose vaccination certificate isn’t recognised will need to present a negative Covid-19 test result dated within 48 hours of arrival.
EU travel extended
After registering low Covid-19 infection rates over the last two weeks, several European countries and regions have been added to the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control’s (ECDC) green list.
The countries/regions on the green list are:
- Germany
- Poland
- Czech Republic
- Austria
- Hungary
- Romania
- Bulgaria
- Slovenia
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Regions of Croatia: Middle Croatia, Slavonia
- Regions of Italy: Apulia, Molise, Aosta Valley
- Regions of Norway: Rogaland, Telemark, Vestfold, Oslo, Buskerud, Østfold, Akershus, Oppland, Hedmark, Sør-Trøndelag, Nord-Trøndelag, Nordland
Travel to countries on the green list (updated on the 5th August) is no longer discouraged by the ECDC.
Countries are on the green list after identifying less than 75 Covid-19 infections per 100,000 inhabitants over 14 days and have less than a 1% rate of test positivity. Or, countries can be added if they have less than 50 infections per 100,000 along with a test positivity rate of under 4%.
Cyprus introduces double-testing requirement
On the 2nd August Cyprus announced that travellers arriving from the USA, France and Switzerland will need to double test.
Rising infection rates in those countries have seen them move from the orange category to the red category.
Those arriving from France and Switzerland who are fully vaccinated with a vaccine approved by the European Medicines Agency or with Sputnik V, Sinopharm or Sinovac are exempt from the double testing requirement. But US travellers will still have to follow the requirement.
All travellers coming from a country on Cyprus’ red list will need to do a PCR test 72 hours before departure and have a further test when they arrive in Cyprus.
Cyprus’ red list is as follows:
- EU Member States: Denmark, Ireland, Spain, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal
- Microstates: Andorra, Monaco, San Marino
- Schengen Area countries: Iceland
- Third countries: Azerbaijan, Albania, Egypt, Georgia, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Japan, Belarus, Kuwait, Montenegro, Brunei, Moldova, South Korea, Russia, Ukraine
Travel to Spain still advised against by EU Health Agency
The ECDC has kept Spain in the dark red category based on recent reports. That means that all travellers are still advised to avoid unnecessary travel to Spain.
The more recent epidemiological report shows that only the region of Asturias has been moved to the red category. The region has registered more than 200 but less than 500 infections per 100,000, this is lower than other parts of the Spanish territory. In contrast, Spain has identified more than 500 cases per 100,000 inhabitants over the last 14 days.
The rise in infections can be traced to the decision to open Spanish borders to try and boost Spain’s economy over the summer months.
Navigate your way through international contracting
As travel opens up the demand for international contractors increases which offers ample opportunity for professionals. However in the current climate keeping abreast of all compliance issues can be a challenge but we have the flexibility and experience to guide you through the process.
If you want to speak to someone about your situation contact our knowledgeable team of experts.