As more and more people receive vaccines against COVID-19, some countries rely on “vaccine passports” to reopen society. These passports are basically certificates that show the holder has been vaccinated so that they can enter restaurants, pubs, bars, sports venues and more.

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Travelling with vaccine passports

A vaccine passport will allow travellers to prove that they have been vaccinated against COVID-19. However, this doesn’t mean that you will be able to travel freely. Since some countries, including India, are still fighting the pandemic, people would be required to take COVID-19 tests before and after their journey. 

Vaccine passports and the need to wear masks

Even with the vaccine passports, we would not be in the condition to travel without masks at least till 2022. Travellers still need to wear masks, maintain social distancing and wash their hands frequently. As the efficacy of a vaccine does matter, following COVID-19 protocols is necessary for now.

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Current status of travelling with vaccine passports 

Currently, Israel operates a “green pass” system, which allows vaccinated people to access theatres, concert halls, indoor restaurants and bars. The United Kingdom had to roll back plans to trial vaccine passports after some of the venues involved experienced significant backlash against the proposals. 

However, the European Union has announced that it would soon issue a digital travel pass as proof of the coronavirus vaccination status. This will help people to travel freely within the European nations.  

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Instead of just helping to reopen the economy, vaccine passports will provide a way to have social contact without fear. They will also facilitate access to care homes to allow for ease of visitation for families who have been separated for too long.