If you're going on holiday this Easter, then it's certainly wise to check up on rules and restrictions with regards to travel - with a number of countries still boasting coronavirus guidance, three years on from the emergence of the disease.
And while it's a lot less complicated to travel to foreign soils from the UK now than it was a couple of years back, there are still certain mandates to bare in mind before booking up, packing for the airport and jet-setting away.
One of the main requisites which may catch punters out revolves around passports- particularly given the upcoming Passport Office strikes and expected backlog accordingly.
Read more: Passport warning issued to Brits and how strikes will impact holidays
The Mirror reports that all EU countries insist that your passport has been issued in the past 10 years upon entering, and it should be valid for at least three months, on the date of departure from the UK. Here, we look at some of the travel rules and restrictions for some of the biggest European holiday hotspots.
Spain
While Spain has ditched all of its Covid entry requirements, there is an exception in those arriving from China. Anyone arriving in the country from the Asian territory must undergo visual and temperature checks upon arrival.
They may also be subjected to a diagnostic test for active infection upon entering. Face masks are also still mandatory in hospitals and care homes across Spain.
It's also a wise idea to research the specific area which you are travelling to, as certain laws vary across the country. For example, Barcelona has a smoking ban on all beaches.
There are also a number of walkouts to be aware of across Spain, with ground services and cargo workers from Swissport walking out between now and Easter across 17 travel hubs. These take place until April 13, after staffing called for a series of 24-hour walkouts each Monday, Tuesday and Thursday.
France
Like Spain, there's no need to present a Covid vaccination pass, neither a recovery or negative test certificate. This applies to all passengers, regardless of their country of residence of stance on vaccination.
From February 2023, it's also no longer a mandate to self-isolate upon flagging a positive Covid test - but people are continually recommended to do so should it happen.
Outside of coronavirus, there are a number of specific laws which tourists across France should bare in mind - including the requisite to carry a high-vis vest and warning triangle in their car should they be driving.
Strikes and protests are currently taking place across France in opposition to national pension age rising by two years, which could impact travel - so punters are asked to check local news, as well as Foreign Office advice before heading to the airport.
Portugal
Portugal has also dropped all Covid entry requirements - however, if you're arriving from China, you'll have to show a negative PCR or antigen test upon arrival. There are also no mandates to elf-isolate should you catch Coronavirus while in the country.
Face coverings are required in hospitals and health care outlets, and are also advised for anyone over the age of ten-years-old in crowded public spaces.
Visit Portugal is a great resource for those who want a detailed rundown of the rules, or want to know where they can find a Covid test while in the country.
Greece
Likewise, Greece also doesn't require a vaccine passport or test. However, if you catch or develop Covid while out in the country, you will be advised to self-isolate for five days from the date of the positive result.
Face masks are still necessary on public transport, as well as in hospitals and health care facilities for the elderly. Pharmacies, taxis, and indoor spaces on boats also require them to be worm according to UK Foreign Office advice.
Read next:
- TUI announces new direct flights from Newcastle Airport to Egypt and Cape Verde
Reminder of Foreign Office advice for holidaymakers heading to Spain
Travel warning for holidaymakers heading to Paris as French strikes continue
Urgent holiday warning issued to Brits with passport applications to be hit by delays
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