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A large number of adults of in the UK over the age of 18 have now received both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine and because of this, many are in the process of planning a well-deserved trip overseas, including some countries that that Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is advising against travelling to. However, the introduction of Vaccine Passports has left travellers confused as to what exactly a Vaccine Passport is, where it needs to be used and what type of proof is acceptable when travelling overseas, especially to countries the FCDO is advising 'against all' or 'all but essential' travel.
That's why High Risk Voyager Travel Insurance explains what there is to know about Vaccine Passports so travellers can feel informed and secure when booking their next trip and when deciding which travel insurance policy is right for them.
A 'Vaccine Passport' is a certificate that can be obtained from the NHS which provides travellers with proof that they are fully vaccinated against Covid-19. A number of countries will need to see this certificate in order to permit entry. There are two ways travellers can gain access to their certificate:
However, if you print a PDF copy of the COVID Pass status via the app, the printed copy will show 2 barcodes. The printed copy is valid until its expiry date and is more widely accepted than snippet of information that's available solely on the NHS app.
Countless countries are using the Vaccine Passport programme to lower the transmission rate of the different variants of COVID-19 and as a security and safety method for yourself and other tourists and its nationals.
Information from the UK Government website states that the theory of allowing fully immunised people to move more freely, the use of Vaccine Passports has the potential to speed up the return to a more 'normal' way of life and increase economic activity with a reduced risk of virus transmission.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) have also discussed that Vaccine Passports could hold the key to reviving the travel and tourism industries which have long suffered during this pandemic.
It is worth noting that should you travel to a destination that requires proof of your vaccination certificate upon arrival or if proof is required before leaving the UK and you are unable to present it, you will no longer be permitted to continue your journey until you can show proof of any evidence the border controls are asking for. Any travel delays caused for this reason are unlikely to be covered by your travel insurance provider.
With regards solely to Vaccine Passports, the passport itself will be sufficient evidence as it is. However, should you travel to an FCDO advised country, there will be a number of requirements to adhere to upon arrival back to the UK. Currently, arrivals will be subject to restrictions currently in place for ‘red list’ countries which include a pre-departure test, a 10-day stay in a managed quarantine hotel, and PCR testing on day 2 and 8.
There may also be quarantine or other requirements upon entry to the country you intend to travel to. So, ensure you find out what these are prior to departure.
Whilst it has been explained above where you can obtain your Vaccine Passport and why it is necessary before travelling, it is worth not only educating yourself on any entry requirements to the destination you intend to visit but what rules or regulations are in place too whilst you are there with regards to showing proof of vaccination.
At the time of writing, many destinations are asking local residents and tourists to have proof of their vaccination status before they will be allowed entry to places of business such as restaurants, bars, gyms and theatres and gain access to local services. So, before booking any trip, it is worth making sure that you can not only gain access to the destination you intend to visit, but explore and access to its facilities.
Before you book your trip, don't forget to buy a High Risk Voyager Travel Insurance policy to ensure that you and your pocket are kept safe, even in unsafe environments.
With regards to travel insurance cover for Covid-19 and other unexpected issues High Risk Voyager provides protection for:
With a 24/7 emergency medical helpline, a 'One Tap Emergency Response' App, and the ability to download pre-travel country advice guides, as well as a wide range of travel cover and options for a range of eventualities, High Risk Voyager Travel Insurance can offer peace of mind and financial protection for you on your upcoming trip.
This article is for information and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute advice in any way. The information provided here is correct at the time of writing however please check the latest policy wording for the latest terms, conditions and exclusions.
For up to a maximum of 365* days cover:
Can include of up to 31 days of Leisure cover.
For up to a maximum of 31* days cover:
For Leisure trips ONLY, no War Cover is provided under this policy.
For further information, please view the Policy Wording.
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High Risk Voyager is arranged and administered by Voyager Insurance Services Ltd. Voyager Insurance Services Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Firm Reference Number: 305814). Registered address: Bankside 300, Peachman Way, Broadland Business Park, Norwich, Norfolk, NR7 0LB, UK.