Travelling safely: EU Digital Certificate and Council Recommendations pave the way to restored freedom of movement

On 1 July 2021, the EU Digital Covid Certificate entered into force. The certificate is accessible to everyone free of charge in all EU languages and covers Covid-19 vaccination, test and recovery. Available in both digital and paper format, the certificate is secure and includes a digitally signed QR code.

HOTREC believes this to be the first step towards fully restoring freedom of movement in Europe. The Council Recommendations on lifting travel restrictions within the EU will also play a crucial role. Approved on 14 June 2021, these Recommendations include shared criteria and a coloured map monitoring the vaccination roll-out and the prevalence of Covid-19 variants of concern or interest.

Holders of vaccination certificates issued in line with the EU digital COVID certificate Regulation should not be subject to testing or quarantine/self-isolation if fully vaccinated – with an EMA-approved vaccine and for at least 14 days.

We now urge Member States to apply the EU Covid certificate Regulation and follow the Council Recommendations to reach a coordinated approach at the EU level.