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Travelling To Europe? Here’s How To Get Your EU QR Covid Certificate Free

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Immanuel Debeer | 24/01/2022

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Note: This article was first published on October 18th, 2021 but had been updated since to include the latest working methods.

Tip: Before heading off, make sure you have adequate covid travel insurance! Check out our guide on the best covid travel insurance in Australia.

With borders soon to open for fully vaccinated people, travel will be a thing once again. However, expect a lot of paperwork, testing and QR codes for the foreseeable future.

Having just returned from Europe, I wanted to share how things work there in terms of covid certificates. This is important because Australians looking to flex their fancy green covid pass in Europe will soon find out that it isn’t a valid document. But, not to fear, this guide will show you how you can obtain a valid EU Covid Pass using your Australian vaccination certificate.

Update: many countries now allow unvaccinated travellers to enter, this means covid passports are slowly becoming a thing of the past! Here’s a list of countries you can travel to unvaccinated.

How does the covid pass work in Europe?

In Europe, the EU Covid Pass is a standardised format recognised within Europe, the Schengen area and a few other countries. The pass isn’t just for vaccinated people; it’s also for those who have a recent PCR test result or for people who have recovered from covid within the last 6 months.

Most European countries allow entry with either a negative PCR or a vaccine certificate with a recognised European vaccine or if you have covid antibodies (i.e. you recovered).

Certain countries like France or Italy require the EU certificate to participate in daily life, such as visiting restaurants, bars and other places.

All this is possible thanks to a universal QR code that prevents fraud and is easy to scan with dedicated mobile apps. Hence why you will find that no one is familiar with your Australian certificate.

The Solution? Convert Your Australian Cert To EU

Luckily there are a few ways you can convert your Australian vaccine certificate (or any certificate for that matter) to a European recognised pass.

Update 17 February 2022

As of today, Switzerland has removed the requirement for covid vaccine passports in the entire country, this includes tourists entering from abroad. This also means the end to what was a handy tool for Australian’s and other foreign nationals to obtain a EUDCC pass to get around Europe. While I suspect it won’t be long before covid passes are gone and forgotten, in the meantime we will keep looking for solutions! Currently, the only options appear to be taking your AU certificate into a French or German pharmacy to get a EUDCC. Tips? Leave them in the comments.

Working Method: Swiss EUDCC- No longer an option

Your non-EU vaccination certificate (such as the Australian one) can be converted into a Swiss EUDCC for a nominal 30 CHF (~AU$44) fee. This can all be done online via https://www.covidcertificate-form.admin.ch/foreign once you click the link, follow the steps and read the instructions.

To qualify you need to have either a flight to Switzerland or a local hotel booking (of course refundable bookings are accepted). You will need to upload this information into the portal.

To download the Swiss covid app, you might need to change your phone’s region to Switzerland temporarily in order to download the Swiss “covid certificate” app. This is not a requirement though as you will get a PDF copy of your certificate emailed.

Swiss certificates use the same protocols and standards as the rest of the EU issued green pass known as EUDCC and therefore are accepted throughout the Schengen zone.

Working Method: Free Swiss EUDCC for Geneva- No longer an option

Thanks to the comment from Dylan, we now have a new method that is free!

Geneva is the only Swiss canton to have taken the decision to make it free to transfer certificates from third countries (CHF 30.- in the rest of Switzerland).

Visitors simply need to certify that they will be residing at an address in Geneva during their stay (in a hotel, with friends, etc.). Evidence will be requested (plane/train ticket, accommodation reservation, invoice with an address in Geneva, etc.).

If these conditions are met, those travelling must complete a form via the following link: https://smc02.hug.ch/surveys/?s=WA39AEN9T3CYMK9W

The request must be made 7 days before arrival; the time necessary for the General Directorate for Health to verify the request.

If visitors decide to visit other cantons during their stay, this is not a problem, as long as one of the addresses for their accommodation is in Geneva and the visitors have applied for a certificate. Of course this certificate also works for the rest of Europe/Schengen zone.

You can find more info on the free option here: https://www.geneve.com/en/plan-a-trip/info-covid

Option One: France — Old method

Update: this method is not available anymore, you can however convert your certificate in French pharmacies for a small fee when in France.

Outdated method:

France is one of the strictest places when it comes to having a valid pass, and you won’t be able to do much without it. They have an online process where you can apply for your “Passe Sanitaire”. You can apply via this website.

Here are the requirements:

  • You are from a country which is not one of the following countries: European Union Member States, Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, Switzerland, or United Kingdom (England and Wales only)You are aged 18 or over. Until 30 September 2021, the COVID certificate is not required for minors aged 12 to 17 years, and minors aged under 12 years old are not subject to COVID certificate requirements;

You have been vaccinated with a vaccine which is accepted by the European Medicines Agency:

  • 4 weeks if you received a one-dose injection (Johnson&Johnson);
  • 7 days after the second injection for two-dose vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca);
  • 7 days after the injection if you have recovered from COVID-19 (in this case, only one dose is necessary);

And: 

  • You are already in France or you intend on going there within the coming days.

You will be asked to create an account, upload your documentation and within 2 weeks or so; you should receive your “Passe Sanitaire”.

While technically this is designed for French tourists, this pass will work anywhere in Europe since the QR code is universal. In terms of providing proof of your flights to France, you can simply submit a dummy booking.

Option Two: Switzerland — Old method

Update: see the working Swiss method above.

Outdated method:

The Swiss are masters of efficiency, and they are currently doing the certificates at no cost to all passport holders. This includes those with European passports who might have gotten their vaccine abroad. My friend Andrew from Mainly Miles shared this tip, and it’s probably the fastest process right now. You will also need travel details but you can easily generate a dummy ticket to Switzerland if you don’t plan to actually go there.

Here’s the process:

  • Download the COVID Certificate Switzerland app (if you don’t download the app you will need a Swiss phone number and email address).
  • Generate a “transfer code” in the app
  • Visit: https://tracing-valais.ch/en/certificat
  • Complete all the steps, on the website, upload your AU certificate (the PDF version you can download; digital wallet screenshot won’t cut it).
  • Enter the transfer code you received in the app and submit!

Andrew from Mainly Miles received his pass within 48h which was much faster compared to the French.

How To Add The Pass To Your Digital Wallet?

If you have an iPhone, it’s convenient to add the pass to your Apple wallet unless you want to keep the Swiss app etc. There’s a website that does this conversion for you and creates a digital version of the QR code, which is readable by any scanner in Europe. The website is called GetCovidPass.eu and while it’s not an official site, they are run by a legitimate company that specialises in creating digital wallet products for a range of high-end customers such as Mastercard etc. It’s just something to keep in mind when submitting your private medical data.

Summing Up

These are just 2 ways of obtaining an EU certificate, if you’re travelling soon but don’t have one: don’t stress! You will need a negative PCR to enter Europe anyway so that will trump your vaccine certificate in most cases. On a separate note, once you have the EU QR code you should be able to upload it to a variety of different EU country based apps (if that’s important to you).
Most countries offer a similar service when you visit a local pharmacy or GP with your AU covid certificate.

UPDATE:

Right after I posted this guide, an update came out for an updated version of the Australian covid certificate. This new edition features a QR code that is readable by foreign countries so I assume they followed the same standard as the European QR code. It will be available from Tuesday 19th October via your MyGov account.

Update: It’s been widely reported that the Australian QR code is not in line with EUDCC, this means your Australian travel certificate is somewhat useless abroad.

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Immanuel Debeer

Chief points nerd and travel hacker at Flight Hacks

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  1. Unfortunately in EU you will still need to get EU QR code in order to be able to go for dinner etc… so you need to use the Swiss way to get EU QR because the AU QR is only for international travels

  2. My wife is currently in Europe. She tried to use the AU international QR code but it’s not recognized anywhere.
    I’ve just tried the Swiss app, let’s see what happens.

    • Yep, unfortunately, it seems the AU one doesn’t actually work in Europe. The Swiss or French option will do the trick. Or in Germany, you can get your international one converted in a pharmacy.

  3. Just want to say thank you for this article!
    followed the steps for the swiss QR code and less than 4 hours later i had the swiss QR code

  4. Hi Guys I just tried both Swiss methods.

    First option via the online website I put in my details (arrival address and type of vaccine) and it said:

    “With your specific conditions you are not authorized to receive a Swiss COVID-19 certificate using this platform. You should get in touch with your canton.”

    Second option using the transfer code via the app it accepted the details but then says

    TODO texte confirmation

    I did not put in a mobile number however .. any ideas what I am doing wrong in either case ?

    • Update to this – I used an address in Zurich instead of Geneva and it got me through all the way to the documents screen but its asking for proof of travel ie flight booking confirmation or similar which I don’t have yet.

      Anyone tried this method using some sort of dummy booking ? I’m actually entering Europe via Italy and was just going to catch a train into Switzerland but haven’t booked any of that yet.

      • Hi Adrian, most people use a dummy booking if the travel plans don’t actually involve Switzerland or if they will enter via rail/road. There are a bunch of services that offer dummy flight tickets (they exist because a lot of countries require a flight out of the country as part of the visa conditions) a quick google will bring them up. Alternatively, you can do it free by reserving a flight via a travel agent which will give you all the details you need and they last for 72h before it’s cancelled due to non payment — unless you proceed to ticket. Just be aware that you will be wasting the TA’s time so use something like Amex travel which is paid for by your annual fees etc. Alternatively, book a refundable flight and just cancel the ticket once you got what you need.

        • Just responding to this particular thread, which may also be helpful for others looking to do this loophole.

          I also had the same problem when entering an address in Geneva. It seems the reason why it won’t let you through is that Geneva actually made their own decision to offer these certificates FREE. So you apply through the Geneva Canton link (see below for details, and also the link to the application page). I haven’t done it yet but will apply.

          https://www.geneve.com/en/plan-a-trip/info-covid

          https://smc02.hug.ch/surveys/?s=WA39AEN9T3CYMK9W

          • Hey Dylan, that’s a great find! There doesn’t seem to be a time limit on the tourist option so this would be perfect. I know in Belgium they offer a tourist pass but it’s only valid for 30 days and is not supposed to work in other member countries. I’m updating the article with your tip!

      • Does the Swiss QR code really work in Australia? Does anyone know how this works in practice/how do I get it into an app that can be scanned in restaurants etc in Australia? I was vaccinated in Switzerland so have the Swiss certificate and will soon be finally returning home to Melbourne to see family. The online info seems to suggest you have to see a Dr to get your international cert recognised, then have a whole suite of accounts and linked apps (AIR, Medicare, MyGov, Services Australia….)

        • I don’t think you will have a problem using it in Australia. Just say you’re visiting and that should be that. If you want, you can go through the effort of getting it added to AIR. For this, you will need either a Medicare card/number or an individual health care identifier number. With those details, you can pop into any pharmacy that does vaccinations (or GP) and they can add the details to the system. Once that’s done, you will be able to get the AU covid pass in either paper form or via the app.

          • Thanks so much for the guide and advice. Like others, I was unsuccessful with the original Swiss process but applied yesterday through the new link – providing just a hotel confirmation (I booked a fully refundable stay) and this morning have woken up to a shiny Swiss certificate in my app! We are going to Sweden and Germany next month so this takes a massive load of worry off, thank you!

          • Amazing! You’ll need it in Germany but the Swedes don’t require them while in Sweden although it’s probably helpful to get into the country.

          • Hi Immanuel,
            After finally finding and downloading the Swiss Covid Certification app, it won’t recognise either the pdf download or the qr code for the International Covid Certification issued by the Australian government.
            Do you know if anyone else has faced this, or is it just my typical luck?
            Thanks,
            Paul

          • Hi Paul, the app is just to generate the transfer code which you then input on the website prior to payment.

  5. Ah oh, looks like you can’t apply for a “Passe Sanitaire” online anymore (unless you are a student). “Foreign nationals, excluding students, [can apply] with pharmacies on French territory” (link below).

    Given we aren’t visiting CH… any other thoughts on how to obtain an EU-DCC?

    https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/le-ministere-et-son-reseau/actualites-du-ministere/informations-coronavirus-covid-19/demande-de-passe-sanitaire-en-cas-de-vaccination-a-l-etranger-procedure-pour-64244/

    • In regards to getting EU-DCC, you can get it in some German pharmacies as well. But Swiss is the easiest because you can just pay the fee and submit a dummy ticket to “qualify” and obtain your cert that way.

  6. Hey! I’m an Australian travelling with the International Vaccination Certificate. In Berlin, two pharmacists refused to give me the EU version, one saying they need a signed document from a doctor, and another pharmacist said I needed to pay taxes.

    The Swiss method requested evidence of both accomodation showing my name, and the date I arrived in Switzerland. I emailed back merely my booking name, but not any evidence of arrival in Switzerland. After two days they accepted my application, and now I’ve got myself a shiny EU QR code.

    Hopefully this will make travelling a bit smoother!

  7. Hi Immanuel 🙂 just saw your post and it’s been super helpful.

    I’m another Aussie traveller intending to travel around Europe via transiting UK. not sure if you can help me but I was just wondering if I won’t need additional tests between countries if I get my hands on the EU QR code?

  8. Thanks Immanuel. This is incredibly helpful. Do you know whether the booking details need to be co-terminus with the dates one requires for the EU QR code? Ie, if I’m going to Europe for 4 weeks, should the booking submitted to the Swiss site show flights in/out of Switzerland the correlate to the start and end of that 4 week period? Also, would a hotel or other booking also be needed for the whole 4 weeks? Presumably most longer term visitors would be travelling around Switzerland and so would typically have a number of bookings around the country.

    • Hey Brett, the EU pass doesn’t have an expiry date (I believe it refreshes every 6 months based on vaccination dates unless they change the rules again…) so you can get it whenever. I’d recommend anyone to get it sooner rather than later because once it catches on it might be more expensive or take much longer to process.

  9. Thanks for the info! Is the pass valid from when they approve or when you arrive in Switzerland (i.e. hotel/flight booking in December)?

  10. Hi Immanuel,

    Brief update – I uploaded an accommodation booking for Zurich (fully cancellable), paid the 30 CHF and received a PDF of my EU covid certificate by email within 24 hours. I’ve also uploaded it to my Apple wallet per your directions above and imported it into the Swiss App by scanning the code on the PDF (having neglected to generate the “transfer code” before ordering). All worked a charm. It’s valid for 12 months from the date of my second vaccination. The certificate indicates that it is “only valid in combination with an identity document” so I guess I’ll be carrying my passport everywhere just in case!

    Many thanks again for your work on this. As far as I can tell after an hour or so on Google, this is the only article that provides practical guidance on obtaining the cert for Australians travelling to Europe. Cheers Brett

    • Thanks for sharing Brett, I’m sure this will be very helpful to others! In terms of ID, I believe it’s a requirement generally in Europe to carry ID but don’t expect anyone to ask you. You’ll only need it to prove your identity to officials. I’ve never been asked for ID in bars, restaurants or other places like that.

  11. Thanks for the article, Immanuel!

    So just to confirm, the travel vax certificate with the QR code the Australian government has given us is okay to enter Europe?

    But when going to attractions, bars and restaurants etc in countries like France and Italy they’re not accepting it and you need the EU digital certificate?

    For those who have gone / are going without the EU digital certificate, has it been impossible to get into places or have some places been happy to accept the Aus government certificate?

    I see that vax certificates from some non-EU countries are integrated into the EU system so hopefully the Australian one is added soon.

    Thanks!

    • Hi Sam, yes the AU one is fine to enter countries. However, on the ground, you might find that the AU certificate doesn’t get you far. Of course, it will depend on who you deal with but it’s much easier to have the EUDC to move around Europe and have a hassle-free experience.

    • I see the NZ certificate is now connected to the EU Digital COVID Certificate. You would think it’s only a matter of time before Australia joins. But having seen the inability of our elected representatives to get Covid standardisation across our own country, the 30CHF seems reasonable to guarantee access now.

  12. Thanks for the article Immanuel.
    Just wondering if you know about Norway? It says that it will accept travellers with the EU digital certificate, but nothing about the Australian one. What would happen if you rocked up at the airport in Oslo with the EU pass and an Australian passport do you think?

    • Hi Phil, I have no doubt they will accept your AU certificate. In fact, they most likely won’t even check on arrival. On international flights, the check-in staff are responsible for making sure you have the right documents so if you depart in Australia they would be happy with your AU cert. Once in Norway, I don’t believe they have a covid pass system in place like some European countries.

      • Is travel to Norway from Australia even possible right now? I’ve had flights booked since October and have just found out that Australia isn’t on their list of purple countries? Alongside the AU cert not being accepted as it’s not an EU one. Do you know if travel is allowed there from here right now via London? Or if I’d have to stay in another country in the EU before being allowed to enter?

      • Hi,
        Regarding Norway, I wish that was the case!
        I just heard back from the Norwegian embassy in Canberra and this is what said.

        “…Dear Paul Kennedy,
        We refer to your enquiry below.
        Please be advised that Australia is not a “purple” country and has not been so since 25 September. The classification of countries is updated every week. For the latest update, please see Changes to entry restrictions for several countries and areas – regjeringen.no. It is the classification of a country at the time of arrival in Norway which determine if a person is eligible to enter.

        With regards to the Australian vaccine certificate, we are aware that Australia is issuing a certificate for international travel. However, this certificate is not recognised for travel to Norway. The Norwegian authorities currently only accept vaccine certificates linked to the EU system. For information about which countries’ certificate are linked to the EU system, please see EU Digital COVID Certificate | European Commission (europa.eu).

        I was flying into Norway after spending 3 days in Holland.
        My Dutch friends have informed me that getting the right EU QR digital code has been a nightmare for some Dutch people, so just popping into a pharmacy and asking for one will probably be a fail.
        I’m supposed to be spending 2 weeks in Norway.
        It’s a long way to go to discover they won’t let me in!

        Thanks for the info you’ve given Immanuel. If you happen to get any more info regarding Norway, it’d be most appreciated!
        Paul

        • Hi Paul very good info! Getting the Swiss certificate for a small fee will be the way to go because from what I know, you won’t be able to get on in Holland (other than temporary testing one). The Norwegian site states you need a EUDCC to enter the country. It also states vaccinated people are exempt from the country colour code rules. So my take on this is that the code is irrelevant if you are vaccinated and have a EUDCC.

        • Hey Paul,
          Have you heard any more on Norway?
          I realised last night the same thing you did and I have two weeks planned in Jan too!
          We are a grey country which is unusual, given we are the most vaccinated country in the world… New Zealanders are allowed in.

          Looks like if you can get an EUDCC you can get in though…

          It feels like someone has just forgot to get Australia added to the green list.

          Let me know if you have discovered anything else.

          Thanks, D

          • Hi Dean,
            I’m sorry but I only just returned to this site tonight. I’m doing 12 hour days in Melbourne on a rail shut-down and all I can do when I get back to my hotel is eat and sleep.
            I have a fatigue day on Friday and I’ll be making this “Swiss option” an absolute priority.
            I’ll let you know how it goes.
            Immanuel, I gota say, if I hadn’t stumbled across your advice, I would have already given up on this trip.
            The last 2 years have been particularly difficult for me, and this trip means more to me than you could possibly imagine.
            Many, many “good karma credits” coming your way!
            Cheers, Paul

          • Hi Dean, I’m planning a trip to Norway next month, and have applied for the Swiss Covid Pass. Would you mind letting me know if you have you successfully entered Norway yet?

        • Hi Paul/Immanuel,

          Thank you for this information. It’s been very valuable. I’m supposed to be travelling to Norway on the 29th Nov for business, but then realized the non valid Aussie cert issue. I called the embassy earlier today before finding this article, and they confirmed what you’ve said above. The person I spoke to was very helpful though and mentioned that he’d heard people were obtaining their EU Covid Pass through via the Swiss, and here I am.

          I’m curious to know if anybody that’s obtained their pass have been able to enter and use it successfully when combined with an Aussie passport? Is this all legit? As others have said, it’s a very long way to fly to find out that it doesn’t work…

          Thanks in advance

          • Hi Robert, yes it’s definitely legit. The passport you hold is irrelevant. Cheers, Immanuel.

          • Hi Robert,
            If you’re still going ahead with your trip on Nov 29, could you please indicate if you were successful 8n getting in to Norway?
            Fingers crossed for all of us!
            Good luck!
            Paul

        • Hi Paul, I’m planning a trip to Norway next month, and have applied for the Swiss Covid Pass. Would you mind letting me know if you have you successfully entered Norway yet?

  13. Thanks for the article, Immanuel.
    Wondering if you know about Norway. They say that travellers with a valid EU Covid certificate are allowed in with no need to quarantine etc, but helpfully, the Australian pass is not accepted. What would happen if you turned up at the airport in Oslo with an EU certificate and an Australian passport do you think? Or even just flew into Finland, who does recognise it, and drove across the border or something?
    Would be great if countries could just coordinate on one rational set of rules!

    • I highly doubt anyone would check you if you’re driving. The same goes for Europe, only air travel is required to have a green pass. Finland is more strict than Norway I’ve been told, I believe they do require a covid pass of either negative test or vaccine to get into places.

  14. Hi Immanuel,
    Many thanks for the great advice and links for Swiss EUDC acquisition.

    We’re booked to enter Europe via Sweden in December and will travel to various countries for 3 weeks. I just tried the Swiss Option 2, entering my details, my Australian COVID certificate and a hotel booking in Zurich (fully refundable). The site only asked or the vaccine certificate and proof of stay in Switzerland so we didn’t add flights etc., just the hotel booking. I then put in the transfer code from the app and the site took me to a page with “TODO texte confirmation”. Nowhere was I asked to pay anything. Is there anything else I am meant to do or do I just wait now?

    Cheers

    • Hmmm if you didn’t pay I don’t think you went for the right option. Give it a couple of days and see if the pass pops up in the app?

    • Hi John,

      I’m attempting this method and can’t get past the TODO texte confirmation page. Would you mind walking me through how you managed it step by step?

  15. Hi Evelyn,
    I haven’t had any response from the site since I got to the “TODO texte confirmation” page. Immanuel suggested I wait a couple of days to see if it passes but nothing has happened yet. What surprised me is that there was no request for payment before I got to this page. The app on my phone just says “Wait for transfer”. Not sure what to do now…

    • Hi John, I might be wrong but I think that if you didn’t get to the payment stage, something went wrong so it’s probably easiest to try again. I don’t think you need to have the Swiss app if you follow the updated method.

      • Hi Paul, I’ve updated the guide as it was becoming a bit messy with all the old methods. I’ve listed the only working procedure and link to the Swiss site at the top. I can see where you went wrong, just start the process again via this site https://www.covidcertificate-form.admin.ch/form you will see that the final step (step 5) is the payment page. You will only need a hotel booking (refundable) or a flight booking (refundable ok).

        • Hi Immanuel,
          I tried again using the website and it worked perfectly – I had my Swiss QR code certificate within 12 h. Do you know if any one has actually tried using the Swiss QR code certificate anywhere in Europe?

          • Hi John, nice work! Yes, the Swiss certificate is recognised throughout Europe and the Schengen zone.

          • Hi John. I just tried the Swiss method and I kept getting the Todo confirmation page as well without payment option. Did you have to pay for it or did you receive your Covid Cert after 12hrs?

          • You can’t apply without paying so if you got to a stage without paying you probably didn’t follow the website instructions.

  16. Hi everyone, this has been the most useful article in the whole of google. Can anyone confirm they have actually managed to enter european countries using the Australian ICVC at border security? or are we going of data on the internet. just want to be sure ICVC works once i reach the airport (i am flying to athens, germany, italy and UK). For moving between the islands in such as santorini from athens i assume its the same process with ICVC at airport and green pass to travel around?

    • Your Australian certificate should be fine at most international borders but it’s not accepted on the ground in Europe. Paying the CHF30 will be a guaranteed way to have a seamless travel experience within Europe.

  17. Hey just a heads up, I used the old (free) switzeland method on 19 November with no payment, use Swiss hotel address (no proof) & uploaded aus international cert, got Swiss covid pass in under 36 hrs

  18. I am not traveling to the EU until June 2022. I am thinking I will wait until March 22 to see what has changed etc. My question is, will you keep updating this page until then and do you think I am right to wait.

    • Hey Ann, to be honest, there’s no benefit in waiting. I can see a few possible outcomes: either AU certificate updates their technology to be in line with EUDCC standard, Swiss decide it’s too much hassle to offer it to tourists, other countries decide to make some money out of the scheme and offer their own service. IMO the most likely outcome is that Swiss also moves it offline once it becomes mainstream knowledge.
      The time you apply for your certificate is irrelevant because the validity is based on your last vaccination date. As for updates, yep I will keep this page updated or post new versions as things change.

  19. Thankyou VERY much Immanuel you have saved us days of painful research (although I only stumbled upon yours after wasted day 2). Much appreciated!
    As South Africans we got ours within 5 minutes.

  20. Thank you, Immanuel. Used the updated system and worked. Just wanted to let people know that if a few of you are travelling, then there needs to be a booking which shows each separate name. My son was rejected initially as despite uploading a hotel booking, it was in my name. I made a booking in his name and they accepted that. When they reject you they send an email which you can reply to and you have days to respond, so no need to pay again.
    I tried calling DFAT and the Passport office to tell them what a joke their certificate was and that it was pointless having an International Australian certificate if you can’t use. They predicatably said that the problem was not Australia’s but all they other countires. I had to laugh. Any point going to the media?

    • Hey Andy, glad you got it sorted! Yes, the Australian International certificate is a bit of a joke. No idea why they couldn’t look at Europe for advice… oh well.

  21. Just received my French certificate (I requested it before they changed to the paid pharmacy system) but there are some strange things happening with it.
    It scans as valid in France, Germany and Switzerland (3 places I checked) but it can’t be confirmed as valid in Finland. When I uploaded it to the German CovPass app it says I was vaccinated in Germany. So I guess the EU QR code still has some gremlins to work out as well.

  22. I tried Swiss outdated method as someone said above they could get through but my status still “Wait for transfer” after 48hrs. Maybe I should give up and try the paid method? I used Geneva’s hotel address.

    • Hi Jo – how did you get past the “TODO texte confirmation” issue? I believe earlier you mentioned in another comment you encountered this problem, but it now seems you’ve passed it and got to the waiting stage?

      • I mean when I applied on the website, it was stopping at “TODO texte confirmation” and on the app is Wait for transfer, like almost 3 days. I will try paid method today and see how.

          • I used paid method and got it within 1hrs. Probably I applied early morning Swiss time. It seems they just want a bit $$ :)). I got Swiss and EU cert now. So shame on Australia one 🙁

          • Hi, i did the paid method 6 days ago, with a refundable hotel booking but have not heard back till now- should i be worried and contact them?

  23. Hi Immanuel
    I’m an Aussie duel national (have both a Greek and Australian passports)!
    I read above that the vaccination certificate issued in Melbourne is useless in Europe!
    Where can I find more information on this?

  24. Hi I’m an Aussie Dual National (GR and Au). I read above that the Aussie vaccine passport is useless in Europe. How do I make my vaccine passport compatible with Europe? Thanks in advance

  25. Hi again Immanuel,
    I following your latest “Swiss” option and for some reason, when I search the play store for “COVID Certificate Switzerland”, all I’m getting are about 10 various Australian covid certification apps appearing.
    I’m not particularly tech savvy, but I don’t understand how I could be screwing this up.
    Could you please suggest what I’m doing wrong?
    Thanks,
    Paul Kennedy

    • Hi Paul, on Apple iPhone, open the app store, tap your profile picture in the top right corner, tap your name, tap “country/Region”, change it to Switzerland. Go back to the app store, search for “covid certificate” and download the app (blue and red logo) with publisher listed as “Federal Office of Public Health FOPH”. Once you’ve done that, you can switch back to the Australia app store.

  26. Just a silly question relate to Covid and entry requirements. How we gonna do antigen test for entry please? Do we need to book at a clinic or book a virtual call with some clinics to get a confirmation?

  27. Hi, as of 26 Nov, some part of Spain now required a Covid pass (based on the EU Digital covid cert) to enter restaurants, bars etc. Any idea how Australian can get a covid pass for Spain?

  28. I followed the suggested route and received the following message the next day:

    Your application for a Swiss COVID-19 certificate was processed by the canton and rejected for the following reason:

    Unfortunately we could not check your application correctly. We kindly ask you to resubmit your request and apologize for the inconvenience. Your payment will be refunded to you within the next days.

    Do you have any insights as to where I might have gone wrong?

    • Can’t tell what you did wrong since I don’t know what data you provided them… did you use the wrong postcode for the hotel? Ie. didn’t match the location?

  29. Sometimes we have to accept the price of convenience… Australia might get itself sorted in the coming weeks/months or likewise the Swiss method/loophole may close leaving Aussies in a predicament.
    Have just ordered mine through the Swiss method for travel in January – appreciate the advice and effort Immanuel.

  30. Thanks mate, life saver! God bless Switzerland! Just got bailed out when it arrived just as a German security guard wondered what to do with my Australian certificate…

    • Wow talk about timing! Germans were about to go: nein, nein, nein! And for the first time in history, the Swiss came to your aid. Fantastic 😀

  31. Hey Immanuel!
    I received my Swiss Covid Certification 24 hours after applying through the process you suggested.
    You have completely salvaged my Christmas plans in Norway!
    Thank you so much!
    Merry Christmas and all the very best for 2022!
    You’re an absolute legend!
    Paul

  32. Does anyone happen to know how the Swiss vaccine passport can be updated to show the 3rd ‘Booster’ jab, or is it a case of applying/paying again once the 3rd is done?

    Thanks CE

  33. Hi, do you know if the swiss covid cert will be accepted in restaurants/bars/hospitality in other EU countries such as Spain, Portugal, Italy? Or will we need to convert the swiss covid cert into a ‘local’ certificate for each of those countries?

    • Hi Allan, as stated in the article: “Swiss certificates use the same protocols and standards as the rest of the EU issued green pass known as EUDCC and therefore are accepted throughout the Schengen zone.”

  34. HI! Can a Recovery Certificate from an Australian doctor be converted into the EUDCC system the same way an Australian Vaccination Cert. can be converted? I have kids under 12 who are not able to be vaccinated in Australia currently but they do have recovery letters from an Australian doctor. This would help them get into Israel who only accept Recovery certificates from the EUDCC.
    Thanks so much!

  35. Did anyone try to convert at the French pharmacy recently? How did it go? I have a transfer there, so I am thinking about using that option as it may be cheaper.

  36. Did this trick yesterday, it took ~6 hrs for the swiss to give me a european corona pass.
    Thank you so much for the information.

      • Hi Immaneul,

        I applied on the 24th and havent heard back yet, it has been 10 days. Did you get in touch with someone and do you know who i can reach out to to follow up?

    • Hi Ben,

      That is amazing. I submitted mine 10 days ago but still have not heard back- was there anything you did to accelerate the process? I only uploaded my 1 night hotel booking in Switzerland with a 6513 postcode

        • Hi AT i finally got it after 20 days. I submitted mine ages ago, no response at all and i had to email numerous emails, including zurich to finally get it today!

    • Good to hear, gives me some hope. How many days is your certificate valid for? And is it valid in all of the EU or just Swizterland? Which city was your booking in?

      I’m on my 6th day waiting now with no response using Zurich hotel booking. No emails and no certificate appearing in the Swiss covid app. Maybe I should try again, but I don’t really want to pay another $45.

  37. Have any Aussies managed to get a certificate via the Swiss method recently?

    I see that it says for tourists that the certificates are only valid in Switzerland and only valid for 30 days. See below, which is the website linked to for more information from the link above:
    Look at section “How do I get the Covid certificate if I am planning a trip to Switzerland (e.g. as a tourist)?” in this link:
    https://bag-coronavirus.ch/zertifikat/wie-erhalte-ich-ein-covid-zertifikat-und-wie-verwende-ich-es/#contents1

    I’m curious what the validity dates are on recent EU green pass Swiss certificates (or even older ones).

    I applied for one of these certificates (for hotel address in Zurich), paid and have been waiting a few days now with no response.

    • Replying to myself for anyone reading. I finally got my Swiss certificate after 8 days. I guess it had fallen through the cracks.

      I emailed the people where I applied for the certificate and they told me it’s not their problem and I should contact the canton (local Govt) of the city on my application form (Zurich in my case). I found an email address for them and within an hour of writing to them I had my certificate.

      I will be travelling to Italy so I tested my certificate using the Italian Govt green pass checking app, which businesses use to validate your certificate, and it worked.

      App is called “VerificaC19” by “Ministero della Salute”. You can use it to check if your green pass is valid in the EU. There are also other green pass checking apps.

      It’s not clear if my certificate has an expiry date, there is not one listed. But at least I know it’s not only valid in Switzerland by testing with the Italian Govt app.

      • Hi A.T. there’s an expiry date, if you look it the Swiss app it’s displayed under the QR code. Should be 1 year from the vaccination date.

  38. Just to give some info on our experience, we took our AU covid Certs to one pharmacy in Munich and was told that we were not Citizens so would not do, the next one said their internet system was down to do it, the next one says that they needed the printout not just the digital copy. We took the print out and passports to another one this morning and the lady easily converted and printed it out for us. She also pointed out which app to download to get a digital version of the EU one. Was free to get. Our next stop is Switzerland after a Getmany so paying for the Swiss one would have been the next option if we couldn’t find one that would convert in Germany at a pharmacy for us. Lots of pharmacies to try if one knocks you back, just have a printed version and photo ID ie passport on you. Will try now to get it on the app and let you know how it goes

    • As we are flying to Munich this week would you mi d sharing the name and address of this pharmacy as it would save us a lot of worry, pleass?

      Thank you

      Judy and Andrew

  39. Hi all, really appreciate everyone’s contribution + the article that has really helped us sort out the kinks on our upcoming trip to Italy! We managed to get the Covid Cert app without changing the app store region, so they might have updated the app to be available through the AU app store. Last night, we booked a refundable night at the Novotel in Zurich Airport and went through the steps to get the EUDCC via the “New Swiss Method”, so I’ll update here when we’ve gotten the cert to give everyone an idea of current lead times.

    Happy planning all!

    • Hey Nick, thanks for the comment. Processing is pretty quick when you supply all the right details, my wife got hers within 72h a few days ago.

    • Just an update,

      We applied on Sunday night 10.40pm Melbourne time, and today 7.15pm after speaking to someone on the phone about the hotel booking only having one name, the official just approved the application and we got the certificates in PDF and in the app in minutes.

      All the best to whoever needs this info to plan their trip!

  40. Another thank you.

    Applied Saturday and Swiss Certificates arrived last night (Tuesday) our time.

    Thanks again

    Judy and Andrew

  41. The website (and certificate) says it is only valid for use within Switzerland. Would be interested to hear if anyone has had a chance to use the pass in Europe yet.

  42. Hi there,

    I have obtained the Swiss Vaccination Certificate and it was read by the Italian app VerificaC19, which officials are using in Italy to validate Vaccination Certificate Authenticity.

    I made contact with an Italian tour group, the Uffizi Gallery and the hotel I have booked.

    The Tour group advised to download VerificaC19 and scan my Australia Certificate. They recommended getting a Covid test at he Pharmacy which will allow me to visit sites. Today the Italian Government announced that may have everyone test before going to major events.

    Uffizi Gallery did not directly answering my question related to the Australian Certificate and informed that the Local ASL can convert the Australian Vaccination to a Green Pass. I posted the link where the Italian Ministry of foreign affairs states all certificate abroad are considered equivalent to a green pass and they sent me a similar link to another government site stating the same thing.

    I sent the hotel my Australian Vaccination certificate and they informed that they will accept it and that they contacted the museum and that the museum said they will accept it as well. I am unsure which museum.

    In summary, it seem arbitrary and predicated upon whom you have checking your certificate. I assume not everyone in Italy reads their government websites and may not know their own governments stance on foreign equivalent certificates but for the requirement to utilise VerificaC19 to validate certificates.

    I plan to leave to Italy on the 25th December. Notwithstanding the converted Swiss certificate, if I am able to, I will try to provide clarity on whether Australians can do either of the following:

    A) Convert Australian Certificates, at the local Italian ASL into a Green Pass,
    B) Print out a copy of the Italian Governments decree that foreign certificate are considered equivalent and show this with my passport and Australian Certificate,
    C) Utilise the Swiss converted Certificate.

    Wishing you a safe and Merry Christmas and a prosperous new year.

    • The issue with the Australian certificate is that the QR code is a completely different system compared to the European one. Therefore it won’t read at any of the places that might want to scan it. Of course, it will be hit and miss as to who accepts it and who doesn’t. The benefit of the Swiss pass is that you can use it all over Europe and Schengen zone and you can conveniently apply online which means you don’t need to waste time on the ground converting your Aussie cert in Italy etc.

      • I JUST ARRIVED IN ITALY and had my Swiss Vaccination Certificate scanned on the Ternitalia and it was fine.

        One must wear a P2/N95 mask on transport in Italy, as they announced at the stations.

        Cheers

  43. I’ve just tried applying for the COVID certificate using the recommended Swiss method last Sunday at 12 am and I got my COVID certificated approved by 9 pm the same day! Fingers crossed that it will work when I arrive in Germany in 2 weeks’ time!

  44. Hi, does anyone know the latest with these Australian certificates in Italy? I just downloaded the International Covid Vaccination Certificate to my digital wallet and have the print out too. Milan is first stop in Feb.

    Also, really interested to know why the hell didn’t Australia apply to have this recognised in the EU like NZ, Singapore and about 28 other countries??

    • Hi James, your certificate will be somewhat useless in Europe. You’ll get into the country but your experience on the ground will be hit and miss. If you want a hassle-free experience, spend the 30 swiss franc and get your EUDCC.

  45. Hi Immanuel, thanks for this blog, it has been very useful. I’m currently in Spain and haven’t had any issues showing my International Australian Covid certificate for the last 3 weeks, however, restrictions have been tightening in the last few days and cafe owners are now really worried about allowing customers in without European Covid certificates. I have followed Swiss EUDCC method instructions stated in this blog (I booked a hotel with free cancellation and cancelled it after I received booking confirmation) and it worked, I now have a valid certificate in the Swiss Covid certificate app and works in Spain, thanks!

      • That’s great news! I was worried as we are due to go to Spain soon without the EU pass. If I apply for it now and get it a couple of weeks before we leave how long will it be valid for? Is it for a year after your vaccination? Our second vaccination was only two months ago. Thanks a lot for all the information as I couldn’t find anything else accurate on the Internet. It’s a huge help!

        • Hi Julia, it’s valid from 14 days after the date of your second vaccination. The pass used to be valid for 12 months but the European Union has just announced passes will expire after 9 months of the second dose.

  46. Thanks Immanuel, I didn’t see the bit about booking a hotel in Switzerland and then cancelling once the EU certificate was issued. I’ll give it a go. Albeit the way things are going, how knows if quarantine will be reintroduced on either side of the trip. Cheers, James

  47. Thank you so much for sharing this article! That was very helpful.
    I am from Japan and Japan issues vaccine certificates that are the same system as Australia (VDS-NC). As I am planning to visit Norway next February, I found my cert won’t be accepted by Norway. I applied for a Switzerland certificate through the first method. I booked a fully refundable hotel at Zurich and sent my passport, cert from Japan and booking information on 20th December. I received my certificate with QR code within 24 hours after the application!
    For those considering this application, I want to mention one thing; your booking information should include your name. I realized the screenshot about my booking did not include my name after already sending them. I called hotline (the number provided by a confirmation email about my application) and was told I should call to Kanton Zurich(?) because my application was already transferred to them. Then, Kanton Zurich told me the booking information should include my name and what I had to do was just send an email with another document about my booking with my name written. After I submitted the document, I got a cert within a few hours!
    To sum up, don’t forget to include your name with your booking information, then you won’t need to experience this trouble! Thanks all

    • Hi Helene,

      Did you have an email you needed to use? I ran into the exact same issue. My name wasnt on the booking reservation, so they – Katon- contacted me. I updated the booking screenshot, sent it in an email back…and no response in 5 days. I emailed them at [email protected]

      Wondering if you had more info. Thanks

  48. Hi there! My partner and I are currently in Berlin and the Australian international covid vax certificate isn’t working anywhere. It is becoming very frustrating. I have tried applying for the Swiss QR code online using the transfer link but nowhere did it ask me for accommodation details as everyone else is expressing here. Am I going through the wrong link? Is someone able to point me in the right direction. I have also approached a pharmacy about converting our Australian QR code to the EU one and we got told we couldn’t but I am going to keep trying at this. Some help on the Swiss app if the pharmacy falls through would be greatly appreciated!!!!

    • Hi Alyssa, you’re not seeing the section about accommodation/flights because you most likely didn’t start the application. Downloading the Swiss covid app does not = applying for your covid pass; it’s simply a way to store and show your pass once it’s approved. If you read the section about the working method, the link to apply is right there, your accommodation/flight details are requested in step 3 of the application.

  49. Well, talk about Swiss efficiency!!! (it has been mentioned numerous times in this thread)
    Using the current Swiss method, I hit the Payment button at about 5:45pm and anticipated a response perhaps later tonight or tomorrow morning. At 6:02pm the Swiss Covid App beeped and there was my DCC…..that equates to 08:02am in Zurich where the application was processed! Wow!
    Thanks firstly to Immanuel, then to others who have had interesting and relevant input to this thread. We are travelling to Italy/France and maybe Switzerland (dependent on Isolation requirements etc) in MAR/APR 2022. I really wanted to get on top of this sooner rather than later….if Australia signs up to the Euro-DCC in the meantime, then thats a bonus I guess.

      • One small but possibly important detail with the Swiss application process: When asked the vaccination type and number of doses, I selected the Astra option/2 doses. There was no specific reference to the booster (pfizer in my case) although I did insert the date I received the booster – rather than the 2nd Astra – when asked the question about the date of the last dosage.
        I note that the validity end date for the DCC is 12mths after that last dosage date, so I may have gained an ‘extra’ 6mths validity over what I would have received if, say, I had entered the July date of the 2nd Astra dose? (Perhaps that info is automatically captured from the scan of the Aust International certificate?)

  50. Has there been any experience with who to contact if you have received no response?

    I applied for both myself and my partner. My partner got his within 4 hours. I have been waiting 7 days….not sure whats happened. We both did a false booking in Zurich, given we are 100% in Italy. We leave in 4 days so wondering if anyone knows a number or email to contact….

    • Hi Amy, I’m pretty sure there are some reference numbers and details in the confirmation email you receive after making the payment. Did you apply together? If yes, was your name shown on the booking? If it wasn’t, you won’t get your pass. Best to apply in separate applications to prevent any mishaps.

  51. Hi Immanuel, I have just received my Swiss Covid Certificate after applying for it on Sat PM and receiving it today Tues at 10:00 am.
    There are a few tips to assist in getting the Swiss Covid Certificate.

    1.I downloaded the Swiss Covid App (Android phone) by not using Google Play store.
    2. You need to request the transfer code from within the app.
    3. Accommodation booking.
    4. Upload Passport Photo, Accommodation confirmation email and Australian International certificate.
    5. Answer the required questions re Vaccination which has been answered in previous post.
    6. Pay the fee.

    You should receive an email confirmation and order confirmation.

    So this morning received email confirming and a link to the certificate and then my Swiss Covid App had the certificate already installed (not sure how they did this)

    Hopefully I will get use this in a couple of weeks time and thanks for everyone’s help…

    • Hi Nigel, nice work! Yep, the steps you list are the ones one has to go through when clicking the URL, I think a lot of people download the app and think that’s it! Maybe I should update the post but I assume it’s straightforward enough and considering the amount of interest it’s probably good to have a barrier of entry so processing times stay fast for those that figure it out 😉

  52. Hello again. I got my Swiss covid cert the same day as I applied. Then I made a mistake when booking one for my husband. I used the same hotel booking which was in my name. Even though we have the same last name they didn’t accept it. Their reply took a week where they said they couldn’t accept it for that reason. Meanwhile I had given up on the old one and did a whole new one for him. With his new hotel booking in his name he received it within 24 hours.

    Also, I have friends who just won’t believe that the Australian international covid certificate doesn’t work!

    • Thanks for your help with the Swiss certificate! We were in Spain in January and February and it definitely worked. In general we were not asked to show the certificate very often but it was necessary at times. We are going again in June and I will still get another Swiss certificate after the booster. You never know when the rules will change and you need it. Also, Spain now let’s you in without their form if you have an EU accepted QR code.
      Thanks again!

  53. Hi There, I’m looking to travel to Europe in March and two of the countries I’m planning to go to need a PCR test unless you have proof of a booster shot. Is it possible to show that you had a booster shot on the Swiss COVID pass?

      • I have just applied today and the current application form has nowhere to add a booster shot, especially if it’s a different vax from your initial course (can only select one provider). As the booster info is listed on the Oz certificate I just put 3 doses in the form and listed the booster date as the last date, will keep you posted as to how that goes!

  54. Just wanted to say Thankyou for posting this, heading to Europe in March so this will be a lifesaver! The steps were really easy to follow and received the certificate within 48 hours, just make sure to include your name on the refundable hotel/flight booking.

  55. Fantastic. Thank you so much. I’ve just updated my Swiss pass with my booster shot and it’s been verified at all three levels (highest “booster” level) on the Italian VerificaC19 app. So much peace of mind. I really appreciate this.

  56. Hi Immanuel, thanks for this. I am struggling however to get it to work. Using the website and putting in hotel details, flight date and vaccination type the next page opens and says

    ‘With your specific conditions, you are not authorised to receive a Swiss COVID certificate using this platform. You should get in touch with your canton’

    I can’t even get to a point to upload proof of vaccination or hotel stay! Any ideas how to get this to work?

    • Hi Shaun, without knowing what data you’re inputting I can only make a wild guess why you’re unable to proceed. Is your vaccine administered in Australia? If it’s from the UK or an EU country they might block you since those are already accepted in Swiss?

  57. Hi! Thank you so much for the article it has been a massive help. I was wondering though, does a negative COVID-19 test (that’s required after two days upon entering the UK for example) count as a DCC?

  58. hi great article well done with the alternate route but what aust government dept do we lobby so we don’t have to the these methods surely someone has get this right for all aussie travellers especially older one

  59. Hi there,

    As of 18/01/2022 Is the Swiss Covid passport able to be used in all EU Countries or is there another EU passport we can get them that is more widely recognised.

    • Hi Charlotte, as per the article: a Swiss vaccine passport is equal to all European vaccine passports. That’s the whole idea behind the EUDCC.

  60. Hi Immanuel,
    I’m over halfway through this trip.
    I thought I should let you and anyone else reading this know that using your process to get a Swiss QR code option has completely salvaged my trip.
    I just spoke with the embassy here in Berlin and there’s no shortage of very pissed off Australians in Germany and no doubt elsewhere in Europe.
    If you don’t have this code, you seriously can’t get into any shop or venue with the exception of supermarkets.
    It beggars belief that our government could be so incompetent; on second thoughts, actually, no, it doesn’t!
    Anyhow, thanks again
    Stumbling across your blog was an extraordinary stroke of luck!
    Regards,
    Paul

  61. Hi Immanuel,
    just wondering if you could clarify if the Swiss passport will still work even if we don’t end up going to Switzerland and end up refunding our accommodation. We have no plan to enter the country but would like the ease of mind of having the pass before we enter Europe. We are planning on going to mostly countries in the Schengen region.

    Also, how reliable is the process of attaining the pass through pharmacies in Germany? We have a return flight booked from Munich so we are considering this option also.

    James.

    • Hi James, yes the pass is universal. It’s just a QR code that stores info that is verified by a central database. Pretty sure you can even add the code to the German and French apps if you feel the need. I believe only a select number of pharmacies in Germany issue the passes so might be hit and miss.

  62. Hello Immanuel,
    Wanted to thank you for publishing this, and for all the other travellers posting their experiences, too.
    I have gotten my certificate almost instantaneously. I set my phone’s region to Switzerland, then left over 24 hours between making my hotel booking and completing the online application. I think having the Transfer Code from the Swiss Certificate app might have made the process swifter.
    Thanks to you and everyone else once again.

    • Great to hear! Glad you got it sorted too fast! The transfer code only acts as a way for your pass to be pushed to the mobile app, it’s not required.

    • Hi Sarah, as per the article Swiss covid pass is the same as the EUDCC certificates from other member countries. I believe they have a tourist pass like some other countries however this isn’t the tourist pass.

  63. Hi Immanuel

    I am so pleased to say this system worked perfectly. I received my certificate within 9 hours of applying, and my husband’s certificate came within 14 hours of application. Thanks to you, the process was easy, and straightforward. I had to download the app to my mobile from my desktop, using an incognito window and setting the VPN to Switzerland, and used the Transfer Code in the application. We are waiting to go to Norway to visit family, and this ensures we will be allowed entry!

  64. Hey Guys,

    Sorry if this has been covered already but does this certificate eliminate the need for covid testing to travel between EU countries? Planning to go around July starting from the UK and it seems you need a degree to figure to understand each countries variations.

    Cheers,

    Anthony

    • It really depends on the country. They keep changing the rules by the minute so by July who knows… you might be asked to perform a handstand before being let in! At least the UK is moving in the right direction by scrapping most measures.

  65. Hi Immanuel,

    Thanks for all the info you’ve researched and put out here. We’re Aussies in the UK and were vaccinated in Oz. We uploaded the Aus ICVC with the QR code from Medicare but we had the original Medicare document that just listed the vaccinations as well. Do you know if we should have uploaded the latter instead or both?

  66. Hi Immanuel, whilst I’m not traveling to Europe, I am going to England next week. Can you please tell me how to show the international Vaccine certificate on my phone. I have linked to to my passport and it was confirmed done as I have printed it but am unable to see the certificate on my phone.
    Thanks for all your help here.

    • Hi Nicole, are you referring to the Australian one? That’s just a PDF so you could just email it to yourself. Probably easier to print it off. The UK has scrapped vaccine passports so when you’re in the country you won’t need it.

  67. I can confirm that the Geneva method works fine. Made a hotel booking and applied for the certificate last night and in the morning received an email with download link. Thank you !

  68. Thanks for the hot tip – I’m heading to London this weekend and it wasn’t enough time for me to ‘register with a GP’ so I could obtain an NHS number for an NHS pass but this worked a treat and I got my Swiss pass in 21 hours!

  69. I’ve read this thread with great interest as due to go to Italy from Australia at the beginning of March. I’ve be searching and searching for info on how to get a Super Green pass. Italy will be impossible without it now. It’s getting really close to crunch time for me in terms of cancelling trip. Has anyone managed to successfully get a Super Green Pass? If so, how did you do it? Your help will be greatly appreciated.

    • Hi Jane, I believe some of the comments from readers are those that submitted their vax details including booster to the Swiss site and got the 3 doses added to their EUDCC. “Super Green Pass” is just a name, from what I know, if you’re boosted it’s the same. Or if you fall in a certain timewindow with a double vax or recovery certificate.

  70. I see a couple people have referenced updated certificates for booster shots. However, when it comes to getting the booster shot overseas itself – let’s say, UK – is there any indication how we get the proof for that shot to then forward on to the Swiss authorities? Don’t want to end up in a situation where it’s a walk-in shot and no documentation to support it.

    • If you get it in the UK, just get them to add your Australian details to the NHS system and issue you a certificate. In that case you won’t need the Swiss one.

  71. Thanks for all the info here ( why can’t the Australian gov sync with rest of the world, so frustrating!!) going to apply for the Swiss paid option, says it is only valid for 30 days. Planning to travel in May obviously more than 30 days out but I read in one of the threads that it is valid for 12 months from last vaccination which is it? I’d like to apply so I can get organised.
    Thanks

    • It’s valid for as long as the EU rules allow since your last dose. They keep changing these rules all the time so currently, most people with only 2 doses are pretty much the same as unvaxed. From Feb 1, there will be a 9-month expiry date on 2 doses.

      • Thanks Immanuel,
        I have had a third dose, I’ll apply for the vax cert closer to the time things may well be different again. I’ll be in Paris as a first eu stop so I can always head to a pharmacy. Thanks again.

  72. Hi Immanuel,

    I was wondering if you knew what to upload for a recovered PCR Test. Here in Australia (or at least in NSW), following a positive PCR Test, we only get a text message confirming that the test is POSITIVE. After the isolation period, we receive a Medical Clearance Notice form that only says we had covid from x date to x date.

    What would you recommend uploading for the positive PCR Test confirmation?
    Thanks.

    • I think the medical clearance form should be sufficient. You can upload multiple documents so the more the better I guess. FYI, for those who’ve had covid, Europe only recognises this for 6 months currently.

  73. Hi,

    What is recommended to upload when it asks for a proof of positive PCR?

    No proof from a lab in Australia other than a text message.

  74. Fantastic site and all the comments so helpful. Heading to Norway 31st March and getting prepared. Could someone post me a photo of the Swiss Covid Certificate app for Android please. Keep getting different ones.

  75. The Swiss site says their certificate is valid for 12 months for residents, but only 30 days for tourists. Is this current information? Is it really only valid for 30 days for tourists?

  76. Hi Immanuel and thanks heaps for maintaining this – you should never again have to buy yourself a drink!

    Following the ‘Working Method: Free Swiss EUDCC for Geneva’, I applied last Friday 28th during a Melbourne afternoon and the certificate arrived by 9am the next day. It’s valid for 12 months since my last shot.

  77. Is the Swiss certificate valid throughout Italy as an alternative of Super Green pass ? I also read the Italy’s green pass only valid for 6 months starting February – does that mean if it’s been more than 6 months since my last vaccination, the Swiss pass won’t be accepted in Italy ?

    • Hi Ari, “Super Green Pass” is just a name for booster vaccine passes. Depending on whatever the local rules are at the time of your visit, the pass is valid from the date you had your last vaccine until whatever date they make up. For intra EU travel, EUDCC passes are valid for 9 months at the moment. If you had a third dose, I don’t think the 9-month time limit applies anymore… well for the time being until they come out with the next dose lol

  78. I followed the steps to apply for a vaccination certificate through Geneva and received it two days later. Thanks for the hack – I have peace of mind now. No cost at all.

    • I have tried the Geneva method and was rejected because my booking through booking.com was cancellable without a fee. They have a note on the form that states that is the case but I thought I would try anyway.
      Is this a recent change or can someone recommend a form of document that is accepted?
      Do they accept flight reservations or do tickets need to have been issued?

        • Thanks, Immanuel I followed your suggestion and resubmitted. I received the certificate in about 36 hours. I was able to download the Swiss COVID Certificate Application on Android from the Play Store without needing a VPN or to change any country settings. It is then easy to upload the certificate that is sent as a PDF. This is extremely useful and I am sure will make our planned travel through several countries in Europe easier

  79. Hi All, I have read much on this site re the EU Covid Certificate. My question is this:
    We are flying to Barcelona in early April 2022 from Sydney Australia. Then 5 days later cruising to Copenhagen, then fly to Prague, train to Salzberg and home from Vienna.
    Is it possible and how would we get the EU certificate in Barcelona on arrival to overcome the problem?

  80. Hey guys,
    It looks like the Swiss working method (paid), is only valid for 30 days now. I am due to visit Europe in April so will need to wait until just before to apply!

  81. Just received my EU certificate via the free Geneva site. A few days – very quick and easy. There is no expiry date on it – I searched carefully – the only one under the QR code was the date when the certificate was generated. I used “Blindman’s” tip re installing it to Apple wallet – so simple. Thank you. And thanks to all who contributed, especially Immanuel. I imagine quite a few of us travellers would not have taken the risk without this – you have helped to dissolve the borders for us.

  82. Hi Immanuel,
    If we are travelling as family – husband, wife and an eight year old, would we need separate hotel bookings in individual names (except minor) to apply for individual Swiss certificates? We are travelling to Italy in April, do we need a separate certificate for our eight year old son for travelling in trains and accessing venues? Also, does it matter if I apply through the Geneva site or the link shared in your original working method?

    Thanks in advance

    • Hey Sachin, you need to make sure that everyone’s name is on the booking. If your child is 8 years old he doesn’t require a vaccine or vaccine passport anyway so that won’t be an issue. The Geneva link will be for the free pass, the other link will make you pay. Both are the same passes in the end.

      • Thanks mate. I’ll update this thread once I process my application for the Swiss vaccination pass and hear back from the authorities.

        Cheers

      • Hi guys,

        I managed to get a Swiss vaccination certificate via Geneva’s free application process and fake flight tickets.

        Special thanks to Immanuel and others on this thread for your valuable inputs.

        Happy travels!

  83. I apply to the free Swiss method from my COVID Passport in Canada. I received a confirmation number but no email.
    How many days take this method?

    Thank you for your post!

  84. I just managed to get our paid passes approved. Similar to Brett above, I couldn’t use the free Geneva version as they rejected the ‘free cancellation’ condition of my Booking.com accommodation.

    Paid pass came through within 6 hours of submission. As mentioned above, cannot see an expiry date, and I’ve managed to use the ‘Green Pass’ app to move it into my Apple Wallet. I think I’ve saved it around 174 times between email, Google drive and all the apps.

    But mostly wanted to say thanks for such an incredible resource this has become for those of us lucky enough to be considering European travel after all this time. Thanks to everyone for their questions and insight, and of course Immanuel for leading the way. A lovely example of community stepping in to solve a very basic example of government ineptitude at a rather critical moment.

  85. Thanks Immanuel, just completed the Swiss application and used the Fake Flights website to generate the ticketing info as proof of our stay. Turnaround time was less than 24 hrs for our Swiss QR codes. Up until finding your article, we were planning on rescheduling our whole family holiday to Portugal so this has been a life saver. Cheers!

      • Yes its on the free version
        I made 4 demand from Canada, before the field appear. 2 was ok and the other 2 was refuse because no visa. But Canadian dont need visa. I called in Geneva and they said it was an error. They will resend the link.

      • It is on the free pass via Geneva. I submitted with the fake ticket but was rejected due to not having a visa. I can see nowhere that states that Australian citizens need a visa. I’m applying again and uploading a screenshot to the Visa requirement from a Swiss government website that states Australians don’t need a visa for leisure and less than 90 days. If this fails I’ll go the payment route.

        • Success!!! It came through after I re-applied via the free method and uploaded the Word document that I was an Australian citizen in the “Visa” section.

          Thanks for all the advice on this forum 🙂

  86. Hi all, we managed to get the paid Swiss passes – as mentioned above, the free Geneva option was rejected as our booking.com accommodation had the free cancellation condition.

    The process was the epitome of cliched Swiss efficiency – paid option was approved and sent through within 6 hours of application, which might be reassuring to those of us with tighter deadlines for travel. We also used the Green Pass app to then easily transfer it into our Apple Wallets. I think I’ve made 6 backup copies just in cases 😉

    Lastly, just wanted to say thanks to everyone here whose questions and insight have helped alleviate a significant issue for those of us lucky enough to be heading to Europe. I know travel is often an indulgence, but for many who haven’t seen family in so very long, getting this issue sorted so easily is a small but significant relief.

    An enormous thanks to Immanuel for hosting a such an informative, supportive resource.

  87. Hi Sachin,

    No, just Our Booking.com accommodation.

    Just for clarity, my travel group seems very similar to yours – two parents and our nine year old. As Immanuel noted our child won’t need the pass, so I made one single booking for two rooms, with my wife and I listed as the main occupant of each room. This meant I could use same booking confirmation for both (separate) passes. Very easy process in the end!

  88. Hi Immanuel

    We leave to go to Croatia in May and just found out about getting our vaccination certificate. We got an invoice from the travel agent for flights to Zurich and hotel accommodation is this suffice or do we need to pay the invoice? Also we will be away for more than 30 days so what do we do to extend the certificate? Appreciate your thoughts

    • Yes as long as you upload an itinerary of sorts with your trip to Switzerland with either hotels or flights. The certificate isn’t just valid for 30 days, it’s for as long as your vax is valid.

  89. I tried the updated version but it won’t proceed as I need to put in a visa document which I don’t have or need. Anyone able to help with this? TIA

    • SUBMITTED AND REJECTED LAST NIGHT
      Your request has been rejected.

      Reason for refusal : Pour des raisons de fraude, les réservations annulables gratuitement ne sont plus acceptées. Nous vous remercions de refaire une demande en fournissant un justificatif valide. (Due to recurrent fraud attempts, we no longer accept proof of stays which can be canceled for free. Please fill another form with a valid document)

  90. Hi all,
    I can not believe Australian Government still did not apply to EU for recognition of certificate. 35 countries already applied and recognised for free conversion of their certificates. How we can aproach this situation instead of going to pay fee for conversion in some countries or booking and cancelling accomodation to get free one. It is really redicolous what this goverment doing to own citizens.

    • Call your local MP and explain it to them. Most likely they won’t understand though…
      On the upside, Europe is on the right track to remove all these vax pass requirements anyway. Switzerland is the latest country to remove pretty much all restrictions, it might also mean the end of the paid or free pass option as tourists no longer need it to get around in the country.

  91. It looks like Switzerland no longer need a certificate so they aren’t providing one for non citizens. Are there any other work arounds for this? What about AU to UK to EU – is that possible?

    • Hi Meg, I feared this would happen… did you try to apply just now? I’m hoping to get a first-hand report to see if it’s dead. No doubt more EU member countries will follow. I suspect by summer vax passports will be a thing of the past (hopefully).

      • Checked after you posted this and it looks like this pathway is now closed. Updated the article accordingly. Hopefully we A) find another way or B) vax passports are thing of the past soon.

        • Hi Immanuel,

          I was planning on utilizing the swiss method since I’m traveling through several countries from 16 March, but it looks like I’m out of luck there. To confirm regarding the French method, if I go to a french pharmacy with my aus covid passport and convert it, will the resulting pass be valid all over Europe? Hadn’t planned on going to France but doesn’t look like I have any other options.

          • Hi Brennan, yes the French pass will be valid throughout Europe. Same with Germany (they also offer this service in pharmacies).

  92. Hi Immanuel, following your advice, I applied via the old Swiss method on the 15th Februay and received our digital certificates within 24 hours. I was able to transfer it to a Swiss “Green Pass” app. So I have the certificate on 2 apps plus a pdf file. My wife and I fly out to Prague on the 15th August for a 3 month holiday around Europe. As we recieved our 2nd shot on the 15th June and our booster in late December, is there an issue with expirey? Does the EUDCC QR code contain our vaccination dates?. I cannot see any option for a 3rd dose. Any advise would be great. Thanks for all your help.

    • Hi Neale, EU has set a 9-month validity from your last vaccine so I don’t think the double dose pass will be valid and since Switzerland has removed all restrictions they also don’t offer passes anymore.
      I suspect though that by August, most of Europe if not all would have removed vaccine pass requirements.

      • Hi Immanual,

        I was planning a trip to France in May, but fear I may have to cancel because of the latest rules for getting the Health Pass that allows entry to cafes, restaurants, museums etc. My understanding is that from 15 Feb, you can only get the pass from a pharmacy if your booster shot was given no later tham 4 months after your second dose. This would rule me and a lot of other Australian out. Can you (or anyone else) confirm that this is the case?

        I have just discovered this site and am really enjoying it.

        Roger

        • Hi Roger, that’s correct. While some European countries are moving forward, France doing things… the “French way”. I suspect they will also start scrapping things as summer approaches but who knows! The only way would around is to have a covid recovery certificate but I’m not sure if they accept international ones?

          Meanwhile, Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Denmark have pretty much dropped all restrictions.

          • Thanks Immanuel

            Well there goes Plan A! Now for Plan B. I was hoping to travel from Switzerland to Italy In May and have a very technologically- naive question. If the Swiss app that can configure Australian vaccine certificates is still available, would I be able to use it to download the Super Green pass currently needed in Italy? I’d really like to use a QR code in Italy rather than having to brandish my actual certificate everywhere I go and hope people have the patience to read it.

            Any suggestions will be appreciated and I am also aware that things can change a lot by May!

          • The QR code is validated on a database that has the last date of your vaccine so it starts counting down. So yes you can always still see it but depending on the country it might not be valid anymore.

  93. Hi Immanuel. Just found out from one of my friends regarding Greece. Smart Traveller has released a notice as follows

    The Greek Government has announced that the Australian International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate (ICVC) is recognised as the equivalent of the EU Digital Covid Certificate and is legal for use in Greece. As some shops and entertainment venues in Greece may not be aware of the Greek Government’s announcement, the Australian Embassy has prepared a certificate that can be printed and used along with the Australian ICVC. The certificate contains a link to the Greek Government’s announcement which we would
    recommend should also be printed.

    Hopefully this is a sign of things to come.

    Regards and keep up the good work

    Neale

  94. Hi Folks, does anyone have any updates for entering Poland with an AIVC? If I understand smart traveller correctly, the 24 hour PCR test may be sufficient for avoiding quarantine?

  95. The NZ pass is EU compatible.
    The NZ pass is free to Australians
    I applied yesterday and received it today.
    Go NZ!
    Astounding that the Australian Federal LNP Government still can’t manage to produce a compatible one.

    • 200 IQ play, I like it! I’ve been looking at this option since my wife is a Kiwi. Have you got any tips on the bets method? This could actually be THE new way to get around Europe without too much hassle.

    • Hi Telfer,
      Would you be able to provide a link or any extra info on how you did this? I am looking to apply for a NZ international covid pass so that it can be recognised as equivalent to the EU vaccination certificate. I am an Australian citizen and have been fully vaccinated in Australia.

  96. Hello everyone, I have looked into getting a New Zealand pass from Australia and it looks like we are eligible for a pass for travel throughout NZ but it is not the same as the pass NZ issue for overseas travel. In order to qualify for an international pass you need to have been vaccinated in New Zealand as they won’t recognise Australian vaccination certificates. Is there a way around this?

    • Hi Sylke, from what I understand you can get the international NZ covid pass (which is in EUDCC format) once you verify your identity online. A regular NZ travel pass can be obtained without needing an account. Have you tried this?

  97. Hi all. My family and I are currently on holiday in Europe and have so far spent time in Turkey, Germany & Croatia. None of these countries have questioned the AIVC and whilst they have tried to read the QR code without success, they sensibly just move onto the actual information in the certificate showing the number and types of vaccines. This has been accepted in solid German drinking establishments such as RatHaus and Hobfbrauhaus in Munich.

    Czechia and Turkey are even more relaxed and are not enforcing any mask requirements (except in train stations, airports and hospitals).

    We are spending the next week in Switzerland and Italy and happy to share, if there is any material change to what we have seen so far. Safe travels everyone!

    Cheers

    • Hi Derek, thanks for sharing! I think Europeans are very much “over it” so they probably don’t really care too much about what kinda proof they get shown. Switzerland recently removed all rules so you won’t get asked at all, even at the border. Belgium where I’m from removed the vaccine pass this week I believe and France is due to follow by the end of the month. Enjoy!

    • Hi Derek. I’m off to Italy in May so will wait with baited breath to find out how you get on when you get there!

      • Hi Margaret. We have arrived back in Australia now and finished off our last two legs in Switzerland & Italy. Similar to the other countries, we were not questioned with the AIVC. Admittedly, we were only in Milan and Northern Italy, however speaking with the local authorities, the theme is pretty consistent regarding the acceptance of our documents.

        Have a fantastic trip and if I can give you a word of advice, see international travel from Australia at the moment as an “adventure”, rather than a “holiday”.

        We are going to be living in paperwork times for many months (if not years) to come. Don’t let regulators spoil our chance to get out there, discover new lands and create memories to last a life time. Ships were never designed to remain in a harbour! 🙂

        Cheers

    • Hi Derek,

      Did you have to show a negative PCR test to get into Croatia?

      We’re currently in Vienna and heading down that way shortly. We haven’t had to do them between Austria/Slovakia/Slovenia but the entry requirements for Croatia seem to indicate that unless we have the EU pass that we must do one before hand. Was that your experience?

  98. I am Australian and currently traveling in Italy (10/Mar/22 ATM) for the last couple of weeks and fortunately I received an AUS-converted Swiss super green pass on the very last day (17th Feb) they were still issuing it to tourists. I took a screen shot of the QR code and show that on my mobile phone. The scanners they use read it just fine. I can tell you Italy is still not all that relaxed in the places I’ve visited (Rome and further North). I have been checked for my super green pass every time I’ve entered a museum, hotel check-in, cafes & restaurants for a coffee or meal, inter-city trains (not so much the slower regional trains), most recently today. I’ve had hoteliers and museum attendants remind me to wear or adjust my mask properly if I lapsed, most recently yesterday at Milan. Outdoors, people are more relaxed and many do not wear their masks. Some are even just using the surgical masks outdoors, rather than the FFP2 masks. Indoors (incl. shops, trains, etc), its a different story. Pretty much everyone is continuing to wear the fully compliant FFP2 masks, taking them off only when seated to eat or drink. I’ve also had cafe/restaurant waiters direct me and other groups to different tables to maximize space between us, most recently tonight at a restaurant in the cinque terre. My wife entered a ticket office in Bolzano a few days back and was met with a very frosty reception because she didn’t have her green pass clearly visible. Over the last 2 weeks, we have gained an impression that people are becoming a little bit more relaxed, but not by a huge amount. Things may be different in the South, and perhaps also things will change on 31st March when I think they are due to review their policies. But right at the moment, as far as Italy is concerned I’m glad I don’t have to haggle every time over the validity of a useless non-Euro-readable Australian “International” CVC. I’m so grateful I found this blog just in time before traveling OS – thank you! I do hope other travelers will be able to find alternative work-arounds too.

    • Hi Neil, thanks for sharing your first-hand experience. I think those countries that had the harshest restrictions will be the ones who hang on to them for the longest time sadly. Good to see things are slowly relaxing, no doubt by the time summer comes around everything will be back to “semi-normal”… let’s see.

  99. Has anyone got any updated information on entering Portugal. My husband and I plan to go there in June. With the swiss pass gone we are thinking we will have to go to France and get an EU pass through a pharmacy but according to your comment above Immanuel passes will be scrapped in France very soon as well. Am not sure where this leaves us for Portugal?

    • I believe Portugal is removing most restrictions as well. No doubt by June passes won’t be required. Let’s see! Still some time to go.

  100. Just following up on my question regarding travel from Australia to Portugal. We spoke to the Portugese consulate yesterday and Australians are allowed to travel to Portugal as long as the flight they arrive on comes in from a country that is listed as travel allowed with restrictions. Coming in via the UK would be very safe or at this stage UAE but you would need to make sure their status doesn’t change.

    • I also emailed the consulate a couple of weeks back, as I am planning to visit Portugal in June, but after about 5 days in the UK. They responded this was not an issue as I’m arriving from a country accepted for non-essential reasons.

      Still confused whether my Australian Vaccine pass will be accepted though?

      • Considering everyone in Europe doesn’t seem to care too much anymore, I’m sure your AU pass will be accepted even though it won’t scan. When they realise you’re a tourist there probably won’t be an issue.

        • It’s fine to enter the country, however you won’t be able to scan in in venues etc so it’s a pain if they don’t accept it or you need to explain yourself. That said, I don’t think you’ll have an issue now as Europe has pretty much moved on and no one cares anymore.

          • Unfortunately the official Portugal tourism website states it only accepts covid certificates for entry from a reciprocally recognised country, which does not include Australia.

          • I’m also questioning entry into Portugal. I arrive there on 23 May, via UK. But their websites all say our COVID certificates are not valid to even enter the country and we need the 72 hour ahead PCR. Does anybody know what’s happening with this.

          • Yep looks like Australia isn’t listed as part of the reciprocal vaccine certificates. That said you can also enter by just doing a lateral flow test so that should be quick and easy. Once inside Portugal, I doubt anyone will care what kinda certificate you got.

  101. Heading to Italy in a couple of weeks and the Italian Embassy (Australian site) has some great info and downloadable docs for Australians travelling with the AIVC. Apparently carrying a hard copy of your certificate along with a printed letter (it’s in Italian and English) will suffice in lieu of the Super Green Pass. The Italian decree is also downloadable so I have just emailed everything to myself and printed the docs…wish me luck!
    https://italy.embassy.gov.au/rome/2.html

  102. Hi, I’m going to Italy & the Netherlands next month and after reading this all I’m quite concerned about the Australian International Covid Certificate not holding up in either country. Is there any new or old ways that still work to get a Swiss/EU pass? I don’t want to cancel my trip wasting money, but getting over there and not being allowed anywhere would be even worse.

  103. Anyone know why Australia cannot or will not join EU COVID Digital certificate system , EU web site says NZ has signed up so really not sure why cant be done now WA finally open? In Greece if you are a citizen you can register vaccination you got in Australia but not as a resident but non-citizen. Without the app and QR code in EU DCC format you run the risk every time that venue wont accept the bits of paper, try explaining why the QR code does not work on the standard EU DCC app.

    • Hi Mark, have you found a way around obtaining one? Above hacks dont work and travelling to Greece for holiday soon. Any help appreciated.
      Thanks

      • I Rachel, I’ve heard Greece is getting rid of vax passports soon but in the meantime, Australian ones should be accepted. You can either print it off or show it on your phone even though they can’t scan it. In any case, Greece is probably one of the most relaxed places so I doubt you will have issues, especially now.

  104. I just got back from Germany, Croatia, Netherlands ,Portugal and Spain. They were scanning it on all Airports, hotels, even in some Coffee shops and all government institutions including museums(had total of 10 flights within Europe) and Swiss App worked perfectly. I only used Australian Certificate when leaving Sydney and to upload into ADPD so can not say if works in EU.
    Way around it to have RAT done locally if you need to go somewhere, it is only around €10-25 and valid for 24hrs.
    Good luck to all in EU without EU Covid certification.

    • How did you gain entry to your first destination? Was the Australian Certificate enough or did you have a pre flight PCR

  105. Looks as though most places in Europe are rolling back restrictions in time for summer and this includes vax passes for bars/restaurants etc. Be great to get some conformation of people on the ground around Europe as to how this is going? Since we’ve been hung out to dry by our government and have to figure it out ourselves. Cheers 🙂

    • In a lot of European countries, it’s already business as usual. My family lives in Belgium where they recently removed vax passes etc. I predict that by July there won’t be many mandates left in place.

  106. So great to have this site where we (Australia) are able to get information regarding European travel. My husband and I are planning on a ten week trip starting this May ( I know it’s ambitious but it has been on postponed for the last 2 years)Portugal is hopefully our first port of call however there is mixed information whether our vaccination(including booster)will be accepted. Smartraveller has been updated to Australians being able to travel for non-essential purposes only if they have an EU digital certificate ???
    No idea why Australia chose to be different and also no idea why we are still in the red list?
    Looking forward to hearing from anyone that may have further information

  107. I have received this reply from the Madrid tourist office regarding restrictions and passes. The Spanish government has also flagged the dropping of indoor masks in most situations from April 20th.

    “With reference to your request, we inform you that once you provide all the tests and information upon entry into Spain, no document is currently required at any museum, restaurant, sporting event etc. in Madrid upon entrance. All restaurants, cafés and night clubs may now open as late as their licenses allow, and shopping malls, markets, shops cinemas, theatres, museums, and galleries no longer have to apply capacity limits. “

  108. Hi guys

    with all these issues with the AU Covid Certificate, i’m having a hard time figuring out whether to book to go Italy directly from Dubai to kickstart my Europe travels or book it to London and start from there?
    I already booked my return flights from London back to AU, its the entering bit that i’m trying to figure out and my routes to gain entrance into EU.

    can someone help me please. Im leaving AU end of May 2022 going via Singapore and then Dubai.

    • You won’t have any issues entering the EU with your Australian certificate. Also, most if not all EU countries have scrapped the requirement to have a pass so once you’re in no one will ask for it.

  109. Hi Immanuel,

    We are traveling to Spain to catch a cruise in 12 days. We were orignially told boosters were not required up until today and then we were told we needed the booster but that it did not need to have a 14 day period to be considered fully vaccinated. We have been completing all the forms for the cruise, airlines, countries, etc. but our Delta Flyready continues to be kicked back with an error saying: Error: The lapsed time for your final dose has expired based on the entry requirements. Please double check that you have received the required doses to qualify for fully vaccinated and try again. We have now been told to take our docs to the airport the day of travel. Do you know, will we be able to fly from the U.S. to Spain with a booster received today, 5/8/22 and flying to Spain and landing on 5/20/22? Really worried that this piece is going to keep us from our vacation 🙁 . There are so many hoops to jump through!!! Thank you in advance!!

    • Hi Shannon, from May 15th Spain will drop all restrictions and vaxed + unvaxed tourists will be welcome back. I highly doubt you will have any issues entering Europe.

  110. I am flying to Amsterdam on the 15th June and am triple vaccinated. Does anyone know if I will also have to do a PCR test before I leave ?

    • No you don’t need one. I just flew to Amsterdam last week and everything is back to pre-pandemic normal there.

      • Spain requires for non EU country to apply on line for QR code loading there certificates if they are non EU digitally recognized, like other 40 non EU courtiers. Australia still not on the list and I addressed the issue with local MP and Home Affairs on relevant pages, written to Channel 9 current affairs and still no response.
        https://www.spth.gob.es/

        • I emailed the Department of Foreign Affairs last December about our pass not being accepted in Europe and they sent me back a reply saying our system was the same as the USA and Canada. They said it would cost to much to align it with the EU Covid pass and issue a new pass that was readable in Europe. They don’t care, they have known for months about this issue.

          • That is very frustrating, if not surprising. Thankfully more and more EU countries will probably loosen restrictions on Health Passes. This leads to the opposite kind of frustration. I flew into Paris last week and spent a lot of time carefully completing and downloading the four Covid documents I was told I needed. When I arrived, the border force simply stamped my Australian passport and waved me through – and didn’t ask for any of them!

      • Hi Immanuel, do you have any information on the travel ban for Netherlands and if it is actually asking for any paperwork? We will be going in November but entering from Germany.
        Thanks

        • Hi Noe, I just flew into Amsterdam a few weeks ago. Everything there is back to normal, no one asked for anything. Since you’re travelling from Germany, you won’t be asked for anything. From what I understand “officially” anyone coming from an EU country can enter with or without vax. If you’re coming from an “unsafe” country you are required to show proof of recovery or proof of vaccine.

  111. Hi There,

    Is the Swiss pass “Old method” still work?

    I used the link with the code however it never asked for any payment or flight details.

    is this correct?

    Thanks for all the information.

    • No it doesn’t because Switzerland removed all covid restrictions so they no longer issue covid passes. FWIW, most European countries no longer require proof of vaccination.

      • Hi Immanuel, flying Aus to Austria next week, then on to France, then portugal. The reopen eu site says I still need an EUDCC for france and portugal? Is this still up to date to your knowledge?

  112. Hi Immanuel, thank you for this post, been reading through all the comments as well. We’re off to Portugal 1st week June, really confused with the vaccination certificates as they say they aren’t recognising our Australia International ones and we have to do a PCR test 72 before entry. Issue is we have all had Covid in the past 12 week so worried we would get a false positive. Do you know if there are anymore updates? I’ve emailed Visit Portugal and Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service but they aren’t much help. They say you can get in with an EU Covid Recovery Certificate but again I don’t think an not from our Aussie Drs would be suitable? Thanks, Marion

    • Hi Marion, if you read the requirements they are all “or”. There are a whole bunch, one of them is relevant to you: ” valid vaccination certificate (with a complete vaccination schedule or a vaccine booster) or recovery certificate issued by a third country, under reciprocal conditions”.

      You can also get in by presenting a rapid antigen test etc. so you should be fine 🙂
      You will only be asked about these documents at check-in. When arriving in Portugal you will be lucky if anyone even looks your way

        • Hi Marion how did you go getting into Portugal? Did they accept the Australian vaccine certificate? Their website says accepts a vaccine certificate with full immunisation history or a recovery certificate issued by EU or third member country which implies Australia is accepted but could also just be bad translation? We are travelling their end of June and so confused as to whether we have to get a test or not. Would prefer not to in case we pick it up along the way and can’t get in.

    • Hi Marion, we flew into Portugal on 26/05 and were in the same situation as you – scouring this site and contacting all authorities for clarity. You’re right – Australian vaccination certificates aren’t considered ‘equivalent’ to the EU DCC. Unfortunately that meant taking a covid test. My suggestion would be to take a PCR test now to see what your result is. If negative, take another PCR test within 72 hours before boarding (not arrival). We flew in directly from the UK so did it about 70 hours before the scheduled departure time, but if you’re coming in from Australia you probably have a stopover somewhere. I’m not sure if the 72 hours would apply to the flight before or after that stopover – you’d have to check that, probably the first flight though. The only person checking this will be the person at the check in counter in the origin airport, immigration in Portugal won’t ask for anything.

      • Thank you Adil! We are flying to a few places in Europe first which don’t need testing, so will arrange a PCR test when we are in Europe before heading to Portugal 🙂

  113. hi – im travelling to europe but starting from sydney to dubai, dubai to amsterdam and then amsterdam to berlin, milan, paris and then england. I am only double jabbed and the last dose was 17th sept 201 (more than 270 days ago), will i have a problem getting into the european countries? Also what link is still working to get the aus covid cert converted into eu one? I also tried the swiss didnt ask for payment…

  114. We are travelling to Europe in 2 weeks and visiting a few countries- Finland, Switzerland, Italy, France, Belgium and Netherlands. I an trying to find out how to get a European Digital Covid Cert for our trip, but couldn’t find a way. The options above are all not working anymore. Any tips or advice?

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