On January 14, 2021, Seychelles became the first nation to welcome vaccinated travelers from all over the world. The current policy lets those with Covid vaccinations skip quarantine and Covid-19 tests upon arrival.

To be recognized as “vaccinated,” visitors must be able to show that they have taken the complete dose of the vaccine at least 2 weeks prior to entry.  Visitors must submit an authentic certificate from their national health authority as proof of COVID-19 vaccination alongside a negative COVID-19 PCR certificate, obtained less than 72 hours prior to travel.

Seychelles is an archipelago country in the Indian Ocean at the eastern edge of the Somali Sea 1,500 kilometers (932 mi) east of mainland Africa. The country consists of about 115 pristine islands. The total population is just under 100,000. Seychelles has the highest  per capita GDP of any African nation. However, wealth is overwhelmingly concentrated in a tiny ruling class.

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Proof of Covid vaccination may become a requirement for a future health passport. DoD photo

Seychelles may soon be the ticket even if you don’t have a vaccine. The government announced that anyone who tests negative for Covid-19, vaccinated or not, may be able to enter as early as mid-March. That is when it expects to have vaccinated almost 75% of its adult population by that time. Seychelles wants to be the first country to achieve herd immunity.

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photo credit: traveler.marriott.com

The caveat, as with all Covid-19 entry requirements, is this policy is subject to change without notice. Like many other island nations, Seychelles has been doing an outstanding job controlling the pandemic until recently. In late December and early January cases spiked.

Other Countries Plan Their Own Vaccine Entry Rules

Several other countries have plans to admit vaccinated travelers. Hat Tip: God Save The Points. The terms of their programs vary. In sum:

  • Georgia allows entry with proof of Covid-19 vaccination.
  • Cyprus plans to welcome all vaccinated travelers begining March 1st, and won’t require quarantine or a negative PCR test, like other arrivals.
  • Iceland will allow vaccinated travelers to skip out on all current entry restrictions and quarantine measures from May 1st.
  • Romania removes the 14-day quarantine requirement for travelers with proof of full vaccination in the EU.
  • Poland eliminates quarantine for travelers with proof of vaccination, and at least 10 days since the last shot.  This exception may apply only to those from the EU.

Again, these conditions are subject to change without notice.  For reference, this site lists current Covid travel restrictions for each country. Travelers should consult the destination country to verify entry requirements. 

 

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Final Thoughts

Getting vaccinated for Covid-19 disease at the earliest opportunity is a great idea for everyone’s health and well being. Vaccinated travelers should also realize the benefits of avoiding certain entry restrictions like quarantines and arrival tests in some countries. Most countries that waive some or all entry requirement’s still insist that vaccinated travelers comply with applicable public health measures in effect such as wearing masks and social distancing. In addition, those countries may have businesses and tourist attractions that are operating with limitations. Things will not truly get back to normal until counties and perhaps the entire world achieves herd immunity.

I haven’t been to Seychelles but would love to go. Do you have a destination at the top of your list when you resume travel?