More and more countries in Europe are now easing restrictions imposed during the pandemic. Here are the relaxations, country by country.
SWEDEN – LIFTS ALL RESTRICTIONS EXCEPT FOR TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
Almost all corona restrictions will be lifted in Sweden on February 9. However, the special recommendations for the unvaccinated will remain in place and those infected or who suspect they are infected are advised to isolate themselves in the future. Requirements for a covid certificate for entry from countries within the EU/EEA and a negative covid test for travelers from the rest of the world will also apply in the future.
DENMARK – LIFTS ALL RESTRICTIONS EXCEPT FOR TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
As of February 1st, takes Denmark away its last restrictions. What remains are certain entry restrictions that will continue to apply until the end of February, where unvaccinated people and people who have not had Covid-19 must test themselves after entry.
NORWAY – MOST RESTRICTIONS NOW ELIMINATED
The majority of restrictions in Norway were lifted at 11 p.m. on Tuesday. Among other things, the requirement for a test to enter the country was removed and it is once again allowed to serve alcohol in restaurants and bars. However, the recommendation to keep a distance of one meter and to wear a face mask in shops and on public transport if it is not possible to keep a distance still applies.
FRANCE – SKIPS PUBLIC RESTRICTIONS BUT REQUIRES VACCINATION PASSPORT
On February 2, France will lift the requirement to wear face masks outdoors and restrictions on the number of people at indoor and outdoor events. At the same time, vaccination certificates are still required for restaurants, sports matches and cultural events in the country.
AUSTRIA – RELEASES RESTRICTIONS BUT INTRODUCES VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS
Restaurants are now allowed to stay open until midnight, compared to 10 p.m. previously. Starting February 7, vaccinated people, those with a negative test, or people who can prove they have had Covid will be able to eat at restaurants.
Restrictions on the unvaccinated will also be phased out; for example, on February 12, proof of vaccination or a history of illness will no longer be required to visit stores. However, mandatory vaccination for everyone over the age of 18 will be introduced on February 1 – but residents have until mid-March to get their doses. After that, unvaccinated people can be fined.
GERMANY – DISCUSSING VACCINE PASSPORT
In Germany, a possible mandatory vaccination is being discussed. Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz and large parts of the political center are in favor of introducing mandatory vaccination, while the chairman of the German Vaccine Commission, among others, is against it.
FINLAND – LONGER OPENING HOURS FOR RESTAURANTS
From February 1, restaurants are allowed to stay open until 9 p.m. and serve food until 8 p.m., but without serving alcohol after 5 p.m. Bars and pubs must continue to close at 6 p.m.
Finland is expected to decide on further easing in mid-February.
ITALY – EASING TRAVEL RULES
EU citizens no longer need to be tested for COVID-19 when entering Italy, if they have a vaccination certificate or can prove that they have had COVID-19. The entry relief applies from February 1.
CZECH REPUBLIC – ABOLISHES COVIDPASS
As of February 7, a Covid passport is no longer required to enter restaurants and entertainment venues in the Czech Republic. Mandatory testing will also cease for businesses and schools from February 18.
Requirements for face masks indoors and limited numbers of people at gatherings will remain.
Source: SVT.SE
