While international travel faced unprecedented disruptions due to the coronavirus pandemic, many countries are now cautiously reopening their borders to tourists. However, restrictions and entry requirements vary significantly. This guide provides a country-by-country overview of the current status, focusing on Europe and beyond, to help you plan your next trip.
Aruba
Aruba welcomed U.S. visitors starting July 10. Travelers must complete a self-health declaration 72 hours before arrival. They also need to show a negative COVID-19 test or pre-pay for a test upon arrival. The island has implemented a cleaning and hygiene certification program for tourism-related businesses.
Bahamas
The Bahamas reopened to international commercial travel on July 1. Visitors arriving between July 1 and July 7 needed a negative COVID-19 test no more than 10 days old. After July 7, the test must be no more than seven days old. All visitors must complete an electronic Health Visa before departure. The Bahamas has a “Clean & Pristine certification program” for tourism businesses.
Barbados
Barbados reopened to tourists on July 12. Visitors are encouraged to take a COVID-19 test 72 hours before departure and present negative results at the airport. Alternatively, travelers can undergo a test at the airport and quarantine until results are available.
Belize
Belize planned to welcome tourists back on August 15. Visitors must present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of departure (for “fast lane” access at the airport) or undergo testing on arrival. Downloading the Belize Health App is required, along with temperature checks and mask-wearing while traveling. Belize introduced a “Tourism Gold Standard Certificate of Recognition” for hotels.
Bermuda
Bermuda reopened for international travel on July 1. Visitors need a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than five days before departure. An online travel authorization process and a $75 fee are required. Travelers will be tested at the airport and must quarantine until results are ready (typically 4-8 hours). Further tests are required every few days during their stay, along with twice-daily temperature checks reported online.
Cambodia
Cambodia allows U.S. and other foreign travelers but requires a hefty $3,000 travel deposit to cover potential coronavirus-related costs. A negative COVID-19 test (within 72 hours of travel), proof of medical insurance coverage for at least $50,000, and a COVID-19 test upon arrival are mandatory. If someone on the arriving flight tests positive, all passengers must quarantine for 14 days. If all travelers test negative, they must self-isolate for two weeks at their lodging.
Croatia
Croatia permits non-EU citizens, including Americans, to enter for tourism, but requires proof of booked accommodations (a hotel reservation or travel agency voucher). Travelers are asked to fill out an entry form online. Individual EU member states can make their own decisions about travel restrictions, even if the EU recommends otherwise.
French Polynesia
French Polynesia, including Tahiti and Bora Bora, reopened for international tourism on July 15. Tourists must take a COVID-19 test 72 hours before departure and show negative results before boarding. Those who tested positive more than three weeks before can show an “immunity certificate.” Travel insurance is also required, and random testing may occur four days after arrival.
Jamaica
Jamaica reopened to international travel on June 15. Arriving passengers undergo temperature checks, and some undergo a COVID-19 test upon arrival. Protocols for tourism industries include designated “Covid-19 Safety Point Persons” in each hotel.
Maldives
The Maldives reopened to international tourism starting July 15. No additional fees or negative test results are required for entry. Travelers without symptoms do not need to quarantine. The island nation first reopened uninhabited islands, followed by inhabited islands on August 1.
Mexico
While the land border between the U.S. and Mexico remains closed, several states have reopened for tourism, including Quintana Roo (Cancun) and Jalisco (Puerto Vallarta). Mexico uses a color-coded system for each state. Both Quintana Roo and Jalisco are in the “orange” category, allowing hotels and restaurants to open with 50% capacity. La Paz and Loreto in Baja California Sur also welcomed back visitors in June.
Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia reopened to international tourists on June 4. Visitors must show certified proof of a negative coronavirus test taken within 48 hours of boarding a flight. Businesses have resumed operations with social distancing measures.
Serbia
Serbia lifted all COVID-19-related restrictions for both Serbian and foreign citizens. The government reopened shops, restaurants, cafes, and parks, and lifted restrictions on outdoor gatherings. Masks are required in closed spaces in Belgrade. Serbia is also known for its under-the-radar wine regions.
Tanzania
The suspension on international flights to Tanzania has been lifted. Travelers are expected to fill out a Health Surveillance Form on the plane. The Tanzania Tourist Board promoted travel to the country with a video showcasing health measures and touting Tanzania as a safe destination.
Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos reopened to international travel on July 22, welcoming tourists to its islands and beaches. Flight services are expected to resume from the U.S., Canada, and Europe. The Grand Turk Cruise Center remained closed until August 31.
United Arab Emirates
Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, allowed foreign tourists to return starting July 7. Visitors must download the city’s COVID-19 DXB app and register. They must either arrive with a negative COVID-19 test (taken no more than four days before departure) or get tested at the airport upon arrival. Thermal temperature screenings are also in place at the airport.
Navigating the Reopening Landscape
As countries continue to adapt to the evolving situation, it’s essential to stay informed about the latest travel advisories and entry requirements. Always check official government sources and travel websites before planning your trip. Be prepared for potential changes and prioritize your health and safety while traveling.
This guide provides a starting point for understanding the current landscape of international travel. By staying informed and following safety guidelines, you can explore the world responsibly and confidently.
