August 30, 2021
Americans who have received a COVID-19 vaccine can travel with fewer restrictions. Here’s what to know.
Can vaccinated people travel? This question has been top of mind for many Americans as millions receive the COVID-19 vaccine each day. After more than a year of social restrictions, canceled trips, and postponed events, Americans are eager to start exploring again. But, of course, traveling should come second to safety.
Health officials and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend fully vaccinated people act with caution when traveling internationally as more countries are open to vaccinated people. Fully vaccinated travelers are less likely to get and spread COVID-19, but there are still risks involved with international travel and even vaccinated individuals may be exposed to or could contract some COVID-19 variants. (The CDC considers a person fully vaccinated two weeks after his or her final vaccine dose, no matter which brand of vaccine is received.)
Currently, the CDC recommends vaccines developed by Pfizer (two doses), Moderna (two doses), and Johnson & Johnson (one dose). Vaccines developed by AstraZeneca and Novavax are in Phase 3 clinical trials in the United States. Depending on the country you’re visiting, you’ll need to supply documented proof of a vaccine (in the form of the record card you receive at your place of vaccination), as well as some additional information. This official documentation will typically allow you to bypass any testing or quarantine requirements.
Though vaccinated travelers will surely be safer than their unvaccinated counterparts when it comes to sharing public spaces like airplanes, vaccinated people should take special care when traveling, according to Dr. Tom Kenyon, the chief health officer at Project HOPE, international global health, and humanitarian organization. While the top-notch air filtration systems on airplanes and mask requirements lessen the concern of in-flight virus transmission, travelers should know “the situation you’re traveling to is more important than the flight,” Kenyon said. Vaccinated individuals can likely still bring disease (coronavirus and others) into other states and countries by traveling there. Beating the coronavirus is a global effort as much as it is a nationwide concern, Kenyon added, saying, “we’ll never control [the virus] here if it’s left uncontrolled everywhere else.” Vaccinated individuals should continue to practice safety measures, including social distancing, hand-washing, and mask-wearing while traveling, according to the CDC.
If you are vaccinated and decide to travel, you’ll want to check with the State Department for information on returning from your visit. As of Jan. 26, the CDC requires all passengers, regardless of vaccination status, traveling to the U.S. from a foreign country (including American citizens) to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than three days before their flight. In mid-April, the State Department updated travel advisories for more than 100 countries to Level 4: Do Not Travel, warning Americans to reconsider international travel due to the ongoing pandemic. Visit the State Department website for additional details on travel advisories. Before embarking on your next journey, be sure to consult your physician and the CDC guidelines as well, which change often.
See below for a list of countries open to fully vaccinated travelers. (Note: This information was accurate at the time of publication August 30, 2021.) CHECK ALL STATE, AND COUNTRY WEBSITES FOR UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION.
California locals playing it safe, the Goldcoast never disappoints.
Editor’s Pick: L’Auberge Del Mar is absolutely delightful.
My personal favorite! This beautiful resort is all about hospitality. Situated on 5.2 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds with a private walkway to a pristine beach, the property has won numerous awards for its excellence. The rooms and suites are gorgeous, and the onsite dining and spa options are second to none. L’Auberge Del Mar even has a daily activities calendar in case you and your sweetie decide to embark on an adventure.
A best kept secret Casa Laguna, Laguna Beach.
This romantic hideaway was built in the 1920s but has been recently restored using Moroccan influences. The castle-like seaside enclave of historical buildings might make you feel like you’re in Europe, but one walk around the neighborhood will ensure you’re in California. The Casa Laguna Hotel property has an outdoor spa overlooking the ocean that offers massages and a soaking tub.
Shutters on the Beach, Santa Monica is the quintessential LA beach experience.
Shutters on the Beach is beautiful and luxurious, but the rooms are designed with guests’ comfort in mind. Their oceanfront suites are like pristine bedrooms you won’t want to leave… but if you do venture out, you’ll have access to several restaurants and lounges, a fitness center, a spa, and of course, the beach. Santa Monica is always worth exploring, but you’ll find plenty of amenities right outside your door.
For all those feeling adventurous to travel internationally, here is a current list of open destinations.
Anguilla
As of July 1, only travelers who can prove they have been fully vaccinated at least three weeks before arriving can visit Anguilla. They will have to apply for entry to the island before traveling and upload results from a negative coronavirus test taken 72 to 120 hours before travel. Once on the island, they will be subject to additional testing and must remain at their place of accommodation until arrival test results come back negative. For more information, visit Anguilla’s tourism board website.
Armenia
As long as they can provide proof of vaccination, immunized Americans can enter Armenia without taking a coronavirus test 72 hours in advance. They won’t be required to quarantine upon arrival. Learn more about the pandemic atmosphere in the country at the U.S. Embassy in Armenia website or the Armenian government’s travel restrictions website.
Aruba
According to its website, which is updated frequently with information on travel restrictions, Aruba is welcoming U.S. vacationers to the island. Fully vaccinated Americans traveling to the island may be exempt from testing requirements if they can show proof of vaccination. Regardless of vaccination status, all U.S. travelers must purchase Aruba Visitor Insurance to ensure they are covered if health issues arise during their stay. This insurance cost varies depending on each traveler’s age and length of stay; to find out how much it costs, check out the Aruba Visitor Insurance calculator.
Austria
As of July 8, Americans can enter this European nation by providing proof of vaccination in lieu of a negative coronavirus test. Once in Austria, there are no quarantine requirements, curfews or restrictions on interstate travel. For additional info, see the embassy website.
Bahamas
Vaccinated travelers are welcome to enter the Bahamas. However, vaccinated visitors can no longer bypass the country’s testing requirements: As of Aug. 6, they must submit a negative coronavirus test result to the online health visa portal within five days of arrival. All travelers must still complete the Travel Health Visa application and provide proof of full vaccination upon arrival (and that two weeks have elapsed since vaccination). For more information, visit the embassy website.
Bahrain
Any fully vaccinated travelers arriving to Bahrain can bypass quarantine and pre-flight testing requirements by showing proof of vaccination. However, they must submit to testing on the first and 10th days of their trip. Travelers must also download the BeAware Bahrain app before travel. For more information, visit the embassy website.
Barbados
As of May 8, vaccinated individuals can visit Barbados as long as they show proof of vaccination and proof of a negative coronavirus test taken no more than three days before travel. Upon arrival in Barbados, they must also submit to a second test (either at the airport or at their accommodation). They must quarantine until they receive negative results which could be the same day as arrival or one to two days after. Because the country’s protocols can change at any time, visit Barbados’ protocol website before planning a trip.
Belize
This Caribbean nation is open to fully vaccinated individuals from all countries, as long as they show proof their final dose was administered no less than two weeks before traveling. Travelers should present their COVID-19 vaccination record cards upon arrival. However, proof of vaccination does not mean vaccinated travelers can bypass testing requirements: As of Aug. 9, all must show proof of a negative coronavirus test taken no more than 96 hours prior to arrival. For more information, visit the country’s tourism board website.
Bermuda
All travelers regardless of vaccination status must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test in order to visit Bermuda. Those who are fully vaccinated will take another test on arrival and quarantine for about 24 hours until they receive negative results. Unvaccinated travelers, on the other hand, must quarantine for 14 days after arrival at a designated hotel. For more information, visit the U.S. Embassy in Bermuda website.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
According to The U.S. Embassy in Bosnia-Herzegovina, vaccinated Americans can enter the country as long as they can show proof of vaccination completed 14 days before arrival. There are no interstate travel restrictions once in the country nor quarantine requirements.
British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands now allow fully vaccinated travelers to bypass pre-travel testing and quarantine requirements. Vaccinated individuals will still be subject to another test upon arrival. All travelers regardless of vaccination status must also pay for a travel authorization certificate in order to enter; certification costs $35 for vaccinated travelers and $175 for unvaccinated travelers. For more information, read the government’s official statement.
Bulgaria
Americans can visit this Balkan nation by showing proof of vaccination (as long as it has been 14 days since the final dose). There are no quarantine requirements or travel restrictions once in the country. Those who are not vaccinated are also permitted to enter but must show proof of a negative coronavirus test. For more information visit the embassy website.
Canada
As of Aug. 9, vaccinated American travelers can travel to Canada. Visitors to this northern nation must be fully vaccinated with a Canada-approved vaccine (Pfizer, Moderna, J&J or AstraZeneca) and submit proof electronically through the ArriveCAN app. They must also show proof of a negative coronavirus test taken no more than 72 hours prior to entering. Select travelers may also be chosen at random to complete a test upon arrival. Americans can fly to Canada or choose to cross at a land border. Anyone who submits false vaccination records can be fined up to $750,000 and potentially face jail time. For more information, check out the Canadian government updates here.
Croatia
This tourist hot spot in Eastern Europe now allows vaccinated visitors to enter without a negative coronavirus test. Visitors must present a certificate of vaccination that proves their final dose was administered at least 14 days prior. All visitors to Croatia, both vaccinated and unvaccinated, must present proof of paid accommodation in the country. For more information, see Croatia’s Ministry of the Interior website.
Cyprus
Vaccinated travelers visiting Cyprus can bypass the country’s testing and quarantine requirements as long as they provide proof in the form of a vaccination card. However, they will still be required to complete a Cyprus Flight Pass which details each traveler’s personal information. After arrival in Cyprus, travelers may also be randomly tested, even if they are vaccinated. For more information, visit the tourism board website or read the government regulations here.
Denmark
As of June 5, fully vaccinated travelers who have received the final dose of a European Medicines Agency-approved vaccine (Moderna, Pfizer, AstraZeneca or Johnson & Johnson) at least 14 days prior to travel can enter Denmark. If you’re traveling with children who have not been vaccinated, they will need to provide proof of negative coronavirus test results. Vaccinated travelers can enjoy full access to all the attractions this Scandanavian country has to offer without a curfew or other restrictions. For more information, visit the U.S. embassy in Denmark website.
Dominica
Americans are allowed to visit Dominica if they answer a health questionnaire and present proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours prior to arrival. Upon arrival, fully vaccinated Americans must take an antigen test, and if negative, they can bypass quarantine requirements and move freely about the island. Additional info on health and safety protocols for travelers is available here. More details are also available on the U.S. Embassy in Dominica website.
El Salvador
While this Central American country normally requires proof of a negative coronavirus test taken no more than 72 hours before travel, immunized travelers can show proof of a full vaccination course instead of a test to enter. For more information, visit the embassy website.
Estonia
Vaccinated visitors to Estonia can bypass isolation requirements. Proof of vaccination must meet a set of requirements to be accepted. For example, documents must include the vaccine manufacturer and batch number, and they must be written in Estonian, English, or Russian. Additionally, no more than six months can have passed since vaccination has been completed. For more information about traveling to Estonia, visit the country’s tourism board website.
Finland
Fully vaccinated travelers from all countries are now eligible to travel to Finland. There are no movement restrictions or quarantine requirements once in the country. However, there may be health screening measures in place at ports of entry. Learn more by visiting the embassy website.
France
Beginning June 9, travelers can once again pay a visit to the Louvre, the Palace of Versailles, wine regions, beaches and numerous other attractions in France. Entry will be granted to travelers who have completed a full vaccination course and show proof of vaccination at the airport. Unvaccinated travelers from green countries (which includes the U.S.) can also enter France but must provide proof of a negative coronavirus test taken no more than 72 hours before departure. For more information, visit the embassy website.
French Polynesia
Vaccinated travelers can enter French Polynesia and bypass the 10-day quarantine requirement. According to the country’s tourism board, vaccinated travelers must have been in the U.S. for “15 consecutive days prior to departure” in order to skip quarantine. They must also present their vaccination certificate, obtain a negative coronavirus test before traveling, submit to testing upon arrival. For more information, visit the tourism website.
Georgia
Fully vaccinated travelers from around the world can visit the country of Georgia. Travelers just need to show proof that they received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine (or one dose, in the case of the J&J vaccine) at the border checkpoints. For more information, read the country’s official entry regulations here.
Germany
As of Aug. 15, Germany considers the U.S. to be a high-risk country. This means anyone who has been in the U.S. within 10 days of traveling to Germany must be fully vaccinated. If not fully vaccinated, they must have an important reason for traveling to Germany – tourism is not considered important. For more information, visit the country’s Federal Foreign Office coronavirus website.
Greece
Vaccinated travelers from designated countries, including the U.S., can now enter this tourism hot spot without providing a negative coronavirus test result as long as they present a vaccination card proving it has been 14 days since they received their final dose. Meanwhile, unvaccinated travelers over the age of 5 must present a negative coronavirus test result. Everyone must complete a Passenger Locator Form prior to entering the country. For more information, visit the U.S. Embassy in Greece website.
Guatemala
This Central American destination is welcoming visitors who can provide documentation they have received their final vaccine dose at least two weeks prior to travel. Guatemala is also open to those who haven’t been vaccinated, but those individuals must test negative for the coronavirus no more than 72 hours before traveling. The vaccine documentation eliminates the need for a test. Once in Guatemala, there are health screenings at the airport, but there are no restrictions on interstate travel, dining or curfews. For more information on the country’s requirements, visit the embassy website
Iceland
Fully vaccinated travelers can enjoy the many beautiful landscapes around Iceland. Proof of vaccination must come in the form of an official document (written in Icelandic, Swedish, Danish, Norwegian, or English) stating that the traveler has received one of four approved vaccines: Pfizer, Moderna, J&J or AstraZeneca. Even if you’re vaccinated, you’ll still have to show proof of a negative coronavirus test taken no more than 72 hours prior to travel. However, you’ll be able to bypass further testing and quarantine requirements. There are no curfew rules or movement restrictions within Iceland, so once they arrive, vaccinated travelers can enjoy the Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle and all other unique attractions at their leisure. For more information on traveling to Iceland, visit the government’s official website.
Israel
Israel is open to groups of international visitors as long as they have been vaccinated or have recovered from COVID-19. Vaccinated individuals can bypass isolation requirements once they arrive in Israel. All travelers who do not reside in Israel must obtain a permit from the Israeli government to enter. Keep in mind, the State Department advises U.S. citizens to reconsider travel here at the moment due to civil unrest and armed conflict.
For more information, visit the embassy website.
Italy
Vaccinated individuals traveling to Italy can provide proof of immunization rather than proof of a negative coronavirus test. (Note: Children 6 and older accompanied by an adult must always provide a pre-departure negative COVID-19 test.) For more information, visit the U.S. embassy website.
Lebanon
Vaccinated travelers can bypass the testing and quarantine requirements in Lebanon. Those who aren’t vaccinated must show proof of a negative test taken no more than 96 hours prior to arrival, test again upon arrival and quarantine for 72 hours. For more information, visit the embassy website.
Luxembourg
The small European nation of Luxembourg allows immunized American travelers to show proof of vaccination in place of negative coronavirus test results. There are no quarantine rules or travel restrictions once in the country. For more information, visit the embassy website.
Malta
As of July 19, Malta is accepting American visitors who come prepared with their official CDC COVID-19 vaccination record card (as long as it has been 14 days since their final dose). There is no quarantine requirement in place upon arrival, but visitors can expect health screenings at ports of entry. For the most up-to-date information, check out Malta’s tourism board website.
Martinique
Fully vaccinated travelers can bypass the seven-day quarantine requirement after entering Martinique. The country considers a person fully vaccinated if it has been two weeks since the final dose of a two-dose vaccine or four weeks since the final dose of a one-dose vaccine (J&J). All travelers must also present proof of a negative coronavirus test taken 48 to 72 hours prior to departure, depending on the type of test. For more information, visit the embassy website.
Montenegro
If you’re traveling from the U.S., Canada, the European Union or an array of other countries, there are no entry requirements at all to enter Montenegro. If you’re coming from an unapproved country, but you received the final dose of a coronavirus vaccine at least 14 days before arriving in Montenegro, you can enter the country without a negative test. Unvaccinated travelers from unapproved countries will face testing requirements to enter. For more information, visit the U.S. embassy in Montenegro website.
Morocco
Immunized Americans visiting Morocco can provide vaccination certificates in lieu of negative test results. However, the government still recommends taking a test prior to travel. Travelers should also be prepared for sudden restrictions once in Morocco, such as curfew implementation or changes in interstate travel allowance. The country is in a “Health State of Emergency” until Sept. 10. Learn more about the rules applying to specific travelers on the embassy website; additional info is available on the Morocco tourism board website as well.
Nepal
Nepal is open to both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers. However, vaccinated individuals can bypass the testing rules that require travelers to provide proof of a negative coronavirus test taken no more than 72 hours before travel. All travelers regardless of vaccination status must have travel insurance that covers health, immediate crisis or rescue for the duration of the trip; proof of accommodation in Nepal; a completed International Travel Arrival Form; and either a Nepalese visa or a recommendation from the tourism board. Learn more by reading the Nepalese government protocol form here.
Phuket, Thailand
Phuket is open to vaccinated tourists as of July 1. Vaccinated visitors from more than 60 approved nations are free to explore the island (known for its turquoise waters and lively atmosphere) without quarantine restrictions as long as they show proof they are fully vaccinated and show proof of a negative coronavirus test taken no more than 72 hours prior to travel. They are also required to stay at a hotel or accommodation approved by the Thailand Safety and Health Administration. Different restrictions apply to travelers entering the mainland, where cases are on the rise: These travelers must show proof of a negative coronavirus test taken no more than 72 hours prior to departure and quarantine for 14 days upon the arrival. There are no exceptions made for vaccinated people on the mainland. For more information, visit the county’s official tourism website.
Poland
Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and select other countries can now enter Poland. If you show proof of vaccination, you will be exempt from the mandatory 10-day quarantine. There are no testing requirements in place. For more information, visit the embassy website.
Puerto Rico
As of May 28, travelers from the U.S. to Puerto Rico can present proof of vaccination instead of proof of a negative test. However, travelers coming from international destinations must still provide proof of a negative test even if they’re vaccinated. For more information, visit the country’s tourism website.
Romania
Fully vaccinated individuals can bypass the quarantine requirement in Romania as long as they provide documentation of vaccination. The proof must come in the form of a document issued by the health unit that administered the vaccine, whether from Romania or another country. Travelers also must wait at least 10 days after their final vaccine dose to travel. For more information, visit the Romania tourism board website.
Seychelles
The island nation of Seychelles, off the eastern coast of Africa, is now accepting visitors from all over the world. Both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers must provide proof of a negative coronavirus test (taken no more than 72 hours before travel) to visit. Visitors must also apply for travel authorization and have sufficient medical insurance coverage. There are no movement restrictions, so travelers can enjoy the many attractions and beautiful beaches Seychelles has to offer. However, there is a curfew in place from 11 p.m. until 4 a.m. For more information, visit the county’s official tourism website.
Slovenia
Only Americans who can provide a certificate of a COVID-19 vaccination (or who can prove they have recovered from COVID-19) are allowed to enter Slovenia for non-essential purposes. Visitors must also prove their final vaccine was administered at seven to 21 days before travel, depending on vaccine type. To find out more information, visit the Slovenia tourism board website.
Spain
American travelers can now sip sangria and sample tapas in this popular European vacation destination. Although there were once vaccination requirements to enter, American travelers now only need to obtain a QR code from the online Spain Travel Health portal to gain entry. For more information and updates, visit the U.S. embassy in Spain website.
St. Barts
Fully vaccinated Americans can visit St. Barts and bypass quarantine requirements as long as they show proof of a negative coronavirus test taken no more than 72 hours before traveling. Travelers will also be required to complete a written statement explaining they have not had contact with an infected individual within two weeks of flying. Visit the embassy website for more information.
St. Lucia
Armed with a negative coronavirus test taken no more than five days before their trip to St. Lucia, Americans (5 and older) can visit this picturesque island nation. Before arrival, travelers will have to fill out a travel registration form, confirm reservations at a certified property and upload their negative test results in an online portal. Fully vaccinated travelers are free to explore the island while unvaccinated visitors must stay in their approved facility for at least 14 days or the duration of their vacation. Visit the embassy website or the tourism board website before traveling to learn more specifics.
St. Martin – St. Maarten
This Caribbean nation allows Americans to visit as long as they provide negative test results taken no more than 72 to 120 hours prior to departure, depending on which airport they’ll be flying to. In addition, travelers must fill out a mandatory health authorization application prior to departure. St. Maarten also requires travelers to have health insurance coverage that will cover COVID-19 related expenses. Unvaccinated travelers must quarantine for seven days upon arrival, but vaccinated travelers can bypass this requirement. Find more details on the U.S. embassy website and the country’s entrance website, which is frequently updated with the most recent travel entry requirements.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Travelers who have been vaccinated can replace the required 14-day quarantine period with a 48-hour quarantine period in an approved hotel. However, they must still take two negative tests to enter the island: The first must be taken no more than 72 hours before arrival in the island nation, and the second test will be administered upon arrival. For more information, visit the embassy website.
Switzerland
Switzerland is open to Americans who can show proof of vaccination, proof of recovery, or proof of a negative coronavirus test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival. Visitors who have not been vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 might also be required to complete an entry form. For more up-to-date information, visit the embassy website or the Swiss government website.
Trinidad and Tobago
As of July 17, fully vaccinated travelers are permitted to enter Trinidad and Tobago. They must take a negative coronavirus test before traveling, and they will be subject to health screenings upon arrival. There are some restrictions on interstate travel within the country, and there is a daily 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew in place. For more information, visit the embassy website.
Tunisia
This North African country, known for its Mediterranean climate, is now open to American visitors. Americans must show proof of a negative coronavirus test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival. Vaccinated travelers are exempt from the seven-day quarantine period upon arrival. Travelers should also note there is a nationwide curfew from 10 p.m. until 5 a.m. every night. Learn more on the embassy website.
United Kingdom
As of Aug. 2, fully vaccinated Americans can now bypass the 10-day quarantine requirement after arrival in the U.K. They can also skip the mandatory test after eight days in the country. However, they must still show proof of a negative test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival and submit to testing on day two of their stay in the U.K. For more information, visit the U.K.’s coronavirus website.
While the countries outlined above are open to vaccinated travelers, there are also several other countries Americans can travel to regardless of their vaccination status. However, more restrictions are in place in those cases, which can include negative COVID-19 test requirements and days of quarantine, among other stipulations.
No matter if you’re a couple that finds romance in relaxation or adventure, there’s always a place that sparks the flame and sets the mood. For many, that means sand, sun, and sparkling blue water. For others, a vibrant cityscape full of culture and history. Some may find it most idyllic in the remote sanctuaries of undeveloped nature, immersed in the wilderness and well beyond the reach of a cell signal. Discover your paradise from our hit-list of spots that will have you lovestruck at first sight if you’re looking to propose, honeymoon, or simply getaway. Whether you’re jet-setting with your significant other or looking to treat yourself to romance and inspiration, these unique, picturesque destinations will be a delight!
Have fun, safe travels.
Written by: Ann Lauren