How would vaccine certificates work?
The European Union is proposing the launch of a coronavirus vaccine certificate scheme to enable the resumption of international travel. Here we take a look at 10 key questions about the announcement ...
Are there any alternatives?
Airline trade body the International Air Transport Association is trialling a Travel Pass, which could enable passengers to prove their vaccination and test status.
How much will
they cost?
They will be free for people living in the EU. It is not known whether those outside the bloc
will be charged.
What is the UK’s position?
Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove is heading up a review into “Covid
status certificates”.
How do I apply?
That is currently unclear. The certificates will be issued by health
authorities.
When will they
be ready?
The proposal will need “swift adoption” by the European Parliament and the European Council if the certificates are to be ready for this summer, the European Commission says.
What is the EU
proposing?
It is considering introducing Digital Green Certificates to enable passengers to prove they have received a coronavirus vaccine, had a recent negative test result or recovered
from the virus.
How will the certificates be
issued?
They will be available in digital form or on paper. Both will have a QR code that can be scanned
to check authenticity.
Why is it doing this?
Many nations say they will require foreign tourists to have evidence of their status on those processes before they
are allowed entry.
How does this affect the UK?
Digital Green Certificates are being launched to enable travel
between EU members.
But it could also be used by nations who want to allow visitors from countries outside
the bloc, such as the UK.
Why are some people opposed?
Concerns have been raised that people unable or unwilling to be vaccinated will be discriminated against.
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