Austria is tightening its entry requirements for everyone in order to curb the spread of the Omikron variant of the coronavirus. The new regulation comes into force on Monday, as the Ministry of Health announced on Friday evening.
In principle, entry into Austria is only possible with a 2G certificate (vaccinated or tested). However, if you are not yet able to show a corona booster vaccination (third vaccination or booster), a valid PCR test (72 hours) must also be presented – this corresponds to a 2G-Plus rule.
Anyone who does not meet any of these requirements must be quarantined immediately after entering the country. This can only be ended if a PCR test has been carried out after entry and a negative result is available. In this case, registration with a “pre-travel clearance” is also mandatory.
Exempt from the requirements are pregnant women and people who cannot be vaccinated for health reasons. Another exception applies to those of school age: they can enter with the ninja pass or an equivalent. Children under twelve years of age are also excluded, but in the event of quarantine, like their adult companion, must register in isolation or register. The usual 3G rule remains for commuters.
Not only third country nationals, but also Austrians, EU and EEA citizens and people living in Austria are affected. You must present a valid vaccination certificate or a certificate of convalescence upon entry. Otherwise, a ten-day quarantine must be started. The possibility of early free testing is available from the fifth day.
“These stricter entry regulations bring with them great challenges, especially for people who travel abroad over the Christmas holidays. However, they are necessary at this point in time to counter the spread of Omikron in Austria,” said Health Minister Wolfgang Mückstein (Greens).
Source: Nachrichten
