The Council of the European Union, the body that brings together the 27 member states, has decided to update the recommendations it gives to countries on non-essential travel from third countries, such as the United Kingdom.

In view of the evolution of the pandemic situation, it is suggested that the presentation of a test be waived for travellers who are vaccinated or who have recovered from the disease.

This means that the British, who are one of the biggest customers of European tourism (including Portuguese), will be able to enter the territory of the European Union without having to show a negative test, if they have a certificate attesting to vaccination (more than 14 days and less than 180 days) or recovery from illness.

"The changes introduced accompany the evolution of the pandemic, the increase in the vaccination rate and the administration of booster doses, as well as the recognition of a greater number of certificates issued by third countries as being equivalent to the EU Covid Digital Certificate", justifies the communiqué of the Council of the EU.

In Portugal, since the beginning of February, it is no longer mandatory to present a negative test for entry into national territory in the case of travellers with a certificate of recovery or vaccination.