Italy and Cyprus drop COVID-19 entry requirements
Italy and Cyprus are the latest countries to lift all COVID-19-related travel restrictions.
As of June 1, vacationers heading to either country will be able to walk through customs with nothing but their passport and a thirst for travel, regardless of their vaccination status.
Previously, visitors to the two Mediterranean nations had to show proof of vaccination or proof of a recent recovery from the virus.
In Cyprus, social distancing is still enforced, and masks must be worn on buses and in taxis. "[From June 1] there are no restrictions for entry into the country. There are no restrictions on movement and travelers can enjoy all kinds of services and facilities across the destination without the need to present any health certificates," a spokesperson for Visit Cyprus said.
"Enhanced health, safety and hygiene protocols have been devised for all hospitality establishments, cultural sites and entertainment venues, and extensive training of staff has taken place prior to the destination opening for visitors."
In Italy, per a reopening decree announced in March (when the country also ended its state of emergency), individuals no longer need "green" passes or "super green" passes to enter venues.
However, the country has extended a mask mandate until June 15; this means passengers flying to or from Italy may be required to wear an FFP2 face mask on planes.
Related: Belgium has dropped almost all of its COVID-19 restrictions
"From June 1st stop green pass for entry into Italy. The ordinance of the Minister of Health which provides for the Green Certification Covid-19 (green pass) to enter Italy expires on May 31. The measure will not be extended," according to a statement issued by Italy's Ministry of Health.
"As of 1 June, COVID-19 restrictions on entering Italy have been lifted. Italy does not require any proof of vaccination, a negative test result, or a COVID-19 recovery certificate to enter the country, regardless of your vaccination status," the United Kingdom Foreign Office confirmed.
Related: Your guide to at-home COVID-19 tests for international travel
Both Cyprus and Italy have, throughout the pandemic, held some of the toughest anti-COVID-19 measures in Europe, standing firm on their mandates even as other European countries dropped theirs.
Britain opened its borders to all travelers, regardless of vaccination status on March 18, while Greece followed suit on May 2.
A number of other countries across Europe — including Austria, Belgium, Switzerland, Bulgaria, Croatia, Lithuania, Sweden, Serbia, Slovenia and Slovakia — have done the same.
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