Florida

Europe introduces COVID-19 travel certificate, but slim chances of happening in U.S.

By Angela Jacobs, WFTV.com

Some countries consider immunity passports; WHO warns of lack of evidence to prove immunity Several countries are considering using what’s known as an immunity passport or an immunity-based license to indicate if someone has recovered from COVID-19 and is now immune to the virus.

By Angela Jacobs, WFTV.com

This week, seven countries of the European union have introduced the new digital COVID-19 travel certificate, better known as a vaccine passport, that leaders say will help people travel more smoothly across the EU.

The EU Digital COVID Certificate is a special QR-coded document that shows whether a person has been vaccinated against COVID-19, received a negative test or recovered from the virus.

Right now, seven member states of the EU are using it, and 20 more countries are expected by July 1.

READ: Florida health officials to stop issuing daily COVID-19 case, death reports

People can still travel without it but that means dealing with varying virus protocols, such as mandatory quarantines.

But as far as seeing anything similar here, travel experts say Gov. Ron DeSantis’ April order against vaccine passports and numerous states following suit make that highly unlikely.

However, the European Commission said the process is open to non-European travelers from the Unites States and the U.K.

READ: Biden announces ‘get a shot, get a beer’ vaccine incentive

The European Commission said Americans who want a certificate must directly apply to the member state they visit. Each one has a different process.

©2021 Cox Media Group

Most Read