Cover Image Credit: Pixabay
The European Union (EU) had forged a rule some 5 months ago restricting travel bans due to the coronavirus pandemic. But recent steps taken by some of the countries in the EU have spelled positive news for couples separated from their partners. In early July, only Denmark allowed couples to reunite but now 7 countries have lifted travel ban on couples.
The countries lifting the ban on couples for travel include Denmark, Norway, Netherlands, Iceland, Austria, the Czech Republic and the latest entry, Switzerland.
The Social Media Campaigns
Ever since the restrictions took place, social media flooded with campaigns to lift such bans. Out of all the campaigns, the hashtags #LoveIsNotTourism, #LoveIsEssential and #DoItLikeDenmark gained a lot of popularity and traction. The fruitful response was the addition of 7 countries that have lifted a travel ban on couples. The campaign received the support of citizens, politicians and celebrities.
Travel Rules By Countries: Post COVID Essentials
Although countries have lifted travel ban on couples, the rules are different in these 7 different countries. Here is everything you need to know!
1. Denmark
Denmark is the front runner in allowing couples, fiancés, lovers and families to reunite. The conditions for each vary accordingly as set by the authorities. The exemptions include anything from negative Covid-19 certificates to marriage certificates or relationships that have lasted for more than 3 months.
2. Norway
Image Credit: Michelle Maria for Pixabay
Norway lifted its ban on romantic partners and family members from July 15. The partners must officially declare that their relationship has lasted for more than 9 months and that they have met once before (through boarding passes, etc.). A stay proof for 10-days quarantine is also required.
3. Netherlands
Image Credit: Michael Bubmann for Pixabay
Authorities lifted the ban on couple travel from July 27. The new rules apply to Dutch, EU and Swiss residents in a long-distance relationship. Relationships must be at least 3 months and have seen each other twice prior to the ban. Proofs include hotel bookings, airline tickets, etc.
4. Czech Republic
Image Credit: Julius Silver for Pixabay
Czech Republic lifted bans on Czechs with permanent partners in corona-restricted counties from July 20. The authorities have imposed strict guidelines and declarations for travel. Waivers have been given to people who commonly do not require a Czech visa for travel.
5. Iceland
The rules in Iceland are less permissive and only allow travel for live-in couples. The partners of Icelanders (or those from EU and UK) fall within the permissions. The details can be garnered by sending a request mail to visa@utn.is. The country has also mandated a compulsory Covid-19 test before entry.
6. Austria
Image Credit: Julius Silver for Pixabay
The authorities in Austria feel that “it is now possible for people to travel to the country for family reasons including partners, weddings, etc.” US arrivals must show a negative Covid-19 certificate or 10-days mandatory home quarantine. Austria ran a famous social media campaign called “Love Without Borders”.
7. Switzerland
Image Credit: Susanne Jutzele for Pixabay
Switzerland is the most recent addition of EU countries to open borders for love. The order came into effect on August 3. It signifies anyone in the world who has a partner in Switzerland will be allowed to enter “if relationship proof” is provided. The rule follows that partners were in a relationship for some time and had met at least once before travel bans came into play.
Further Read: Venice Reduces Carrying Capacity Of Gondolas From Six to Five Passengers Per Boat
Countries mostly in Europe are now opening borders for not just couples but travel in general as the virus situation has been controlled to a large extent. If you are someone who has not been able to meet your partner residing in the above 7 countries, then here is your chance. Also, if you know someone who has similar issues, the above post will certainly help. So, when are you planning to travel to Europe? Do let us know in the comments.
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