The border rules are almost all gone — here's what's actually left.
For the vast majority of destinations, COVID-19 vaccination proof, tests, and passenger locator forms have been permanently dropped. A tiny number of countries still keep something on the books — usually a health-declaration form or a case-by-case testing rule for symptomatic arrivals — and every government reserves the right to reintroduce measures during a future outbreak. This briefing is the state of play, not the panic of 2021.
No country currently requires proof of COVID-19 vaccination for tourist entry. A handful still ask for a health-declaration form on arrival, and Saudi Arabia keeps COVID vaccination on the recommended list for Hajj pilgrims. Rules can change fast — always re-check within 48 hours of travel.
The last big holdouts (China, Japan, Hong Kong, Indonesia) removed vaccine-proof or pre-departure test rules through 2023–2024. Airlines have retired the check at boarding for tourist routes. If a website tells you to bring your vaccine card 'just in case', it usually means for medical care abroad, not for immigration.
A short online form asking about symptoms and recent travel is still used by countries like Thailand (health declaration on some routes), Sri Lanka (arrivals card), and Cuba (D'Viajeros). It takes 2 minutes and is separate from any visa or ETA.
The Saudi Ministry of Health continues to recommend an up-to-date COVID vaccine for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims alongside the required ACWY certificate. Not enforced at the border for regular tourist visas.
Governments have re-added testing or quarantine rules within days during previous variants. If cases are surging near your travel date, check the destination government's health page 24–48 hours before departure.
No certificate required at the border, but public health bodies recommend the jab for these destinations or regions.
Up-to-date COVID vaccine recommended (not required) for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.
Health-declaration form still requested on some arrival routes.
Digital arrivals card includes a short health-declaration section.
D'Viajeros online arrivals form asks about symptoms and recent travel.
For entry to the country, almost certainly not. It's still worth having a copy on your phone in case rules are reintroduced during your trip, or a hotel, tour, or event asks for it.
Not for tourism, as of July 2026. Some workplaces, cruise operators, and medical facilities still have their own rules, which are separate from immigration.
Airlines can refuse boarding for anyone visibly ill, and travel insurance may cover cancellation for a documented positive test. It's a medical/insurance issue now, not a border one.
Yes — governments have reintroduced testing and quarantine within days during previous waves. Check the destination's official health page 24–48 hours before you fly.