If you’ve been waiting with bated breath to get a new passport stamp, you now have reason to rejoice. Many countries have reopened their doors to international travel. 

However, you probably have many questions. Which countries are open for travel? Who is eligible to visit, and do they need a vaccine passport? What special precautions should travelers make during this transition time? Here is the current state of international travel and travel projections for post-COVID. 

Is International Travel Open? What Countries Are Open for International Travel? 

If you have been postponing that European vacation, you might now be in luck. The continent recently reopened borders in many countries. However, each nation might have slightly different requirements, so do your research before finalizing your itinerary. 

For example, some nations, such as Albania, have no testing or quarantine requirements. Visitors to such regions might think international travel has returned to normal. Others require American travelers to receive a vaccination before allowing entry. 

You should contact the American embassy or consulate for the latest information. France and Spain originally required proof of vaccination but have since reversed this edict, then the requirement changed again due to the omicron variant. Another excellent resource is the U.S. State Department’s COVID-19 travel information page, complete with country-specific advisories.  

The European Council has requested that member nations act in a coordinated fashion, but its recommendations are not legally binding. However, all passengers will require a negative COVID-19 test taken within three days of boarding before they will be allowed to return to the United States. 

What does this mean for unvaccinated passengers traveling to regions such as France? Ensure that you have the requisite financial means to extend your vacation if a positive test prohibits you from boarding your return flight. You might want to have a heart-to-heart with your employer and arrange for telecommuting accommodations if your office hasn’t transitioned to such a structure on a full- or part-time basis during the pandemic. 

Some countries do remain closed to international travel. For example, you’ll need to postpone your island getaway to Martinique or Mauritius. New Zealand, Uruguay and Taiwan also require a spot on your do-not-fly list.  

You’ll also find that many destination countries require a negative COVID test before entry. Check with your travel agent and make arrangements in advance. Each jurisdiction sets individual requirements on which tests they approve, so make sure yours qualifies. 

Who Can Travel Where During COVID-19? Do Individuals Need Vaccine Passports?  

Even with a negative COVID-19 test, you might need additional documentation to enter various countries during the pandemic, especially if you’re traveling to locations such as Africa or South America for a volunteer trip. One pressing question you may have is whether vaccine passports are required for travel. In some cases, the answer is yes. It all depends on where you plan to go. 

Fortunately, you don’t need to get a special card — your smartphone and an app will work in most cases. Here’s a quick overview of the process and how it works:

• People get an approved vaccine: Make sure the jab you get is supported by the country you wish to visit. Many of the versions available in the U.S. qualify. 

• Download the app to your phone: Two commonly used versions are CommonPass and Clear Health Pass, among others. 

• Set up biometric data and upload your proof: You’ll use a biomarker such as a thumbprint or facial recognition to access your records. 

• Scan your passport QR codes at travel checkpoints: You may also need this proof of vaccination at some public venues, including those you visit on your travels. 

If you hesitate on vaccines, please note that this process is nothing new. According to the World Health Organization, many countries have long required proof of vaccination against various ailments to enter. The COVID-19 vaccine merely represents one more on a list of measures intended to preserve public safety. 

Precautions to Take Before Your Trip

All travel entails inherent risks, but hitting the road — or the skies — during COVID-19 requires additional savvy. Here are some tips to ensure a pleasant journey: 

• Purchase travel insurance: Countries might change their rules right before you depart — there are no guarantees in a rapidly evolving pandemic. Purchase insurance to recover a refund of your fees paid if a last-minute cancelation disrupts your plans. 

• Carry hygiene supplies: Each jurisdiction sets individual rules for mask-wearing in public. Plus, face coverings offer some protection against germs other than COVID, and travel already taps your immune system — why not help stay healthy however you can? It’s always wise to carry sanitizer to rid your hands of germs when you don’t have a sink. Antibacterial wipes let you disinfect that airline tray table before you plop your tablet on it. 

• Inform the home team: It’s always wise to schedule regular check-ins with your crew back stateside when traveling internationally. During a pandemic, this practice is a must. Ensure folks like your boss know how to reach you and keep people at home appraised of any last-minute changes to your itinerary. 

When Will International Travel Go Back to Normal? 

You aren’t alone if you wonder what is going on with the current state of international travel and when things will return to normal. Complete your due diligence and rejoice in loosening restrictions so you can travel with confidence.