Due to the decline in fresh COVID-19 infections, several countries have begun to ease coronavirus-related travel restrictions for Indian travellers including the United Kingdom (UK), the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Spain and Saudi Arabia.
Here’s a look at some of the latest travel requirements along with services that might help to satisfy them:
(i) United Kingdom
From August 8, the UK started to recognize India as a medium risk country by moving it to the amber list. Under this, fully-vaccinated passengers are no longer required to undergo a hotel quarantine of ten days.
(ii) United Arab Emirates
From August 5, the country’s National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) lifted the ban on Indian travellers. Travel curbs have been eased for Indians who have a valid residency permit and are fully vaccinated. On August 7, Etihad Airways resumed flights from cities like New Delhi, Kochi, Chennai, Trivandrum, and Bengaluru.
(iii) Spain
Travellers from India are required to be fully vaccinated with Covishield, and not Covaxin. They should also have a Schengen visa or apply for a Spanish visa through the online visa application centre, BLS, international. Moreover, only the Delhi centre is processing visa applications.
(iv) Saudi Arabia
From August 9, Saudi Arabia has started to accept applications from fully-vaccinated Umrah pilgrims. An immunization certificate issued by the country’s official authorities of the Umrah performers should be attached with the application documents. Saudi Arabia recognizes COVID-19 vaccines of Pfizer/BioNTech, Oxford-AstraZeneca, Moderna and J&J.
