Travel is still challenging if you’re unvaccinated in 2022.
Although the world is slowly reopening, the majority of countries allowing tourists require them to be fully vaccinated. But, with that said, there are some nations that allow you to enter if you’re unvaccinated or you’ve only received your first dose of the vaccine. Here are 15+ nations you can enter right now if you’re unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated. Travel Off Path is not anti-vaccine and has created this article for those that do not have access to vaccines, may only be partially vaccinated, or can’t be vaccinated for medical or personal reasons.
- Mexico
Mexico is currently open to unvaccinated travellers. The nation has taken a relaxed approach to border restrictions since 2020. As a result, travellers from various nations can enter without requiring proof of vaccination. What’s more, travellers don’t need to provide evidence of a negative PCR test before arrival, which is something that most nations require. Entry into Mexico is as simple as it was in 2019. Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Cabo San Lucas are the most popular Mexican destinations, especially for those looking to escape winter.
- Norway
Norway, as of Feb 12, 2022, has removed all of its Covid-19 related entry requirements for all tourists, unvaccinated or not. The Scandinavian country became the first country in the world to revert its entry requirements and all internal rules back to pre-pandemic settings.
- El Savador
El Salvador removed all their entry requirements late-2021 and is as easy to enter now as it was in pre-pandemic times. Unvaccinated tourists can enter with no tests, no quarantines, and no health forms. Visitors should be aware that mask mandates are still in effect.
- United Kingdom
Early 2022, the UK revised many of its travel rules, which includes easier entry for unvaccinated tourists. Those without the shot can enter the UK, but they will have to show proof of: A negative 48-hour covid test before entry, Take a 2nd PCR test within 2 days after entry, that was booked and paid for before entering the country, and No quarantine is needed. As of Feb 2022, the UK removed vaccine passports to access things like shops and restaurants, along with all mask mandates.
- Croatia
Do you fancy a European winter vacation? As Europe increases restrictions from non-EU nations following the Omicron variant — Croatia has kept its travel restrictions relatively low. The nation allows unvaccinated travelers to enter the country if they have evidence of a negative PCR or Antigen test. Unvaccinated travelers must have a negative PCR taken a maximum of 72 hours before arrival or a rapid antigen test result taken a maximum of 24 hours before arrival. Tip: If you are headed to Dubrovnik in the off-season, prices are low and crowds are minimal. No matter what time of year you visit, be sure to book an unforgettable customized tour with Ivan at Dubrovnik Tourist Guide.
- Cyprus
The gorgeous Mediterranian island of Cyrpus is home to the stunning coastline, white-sand beaches, and amazing weather throughout the year. Unvaccinated travelers from most countries can enter Cyrpus if they take a PCR test on arrival at their own cost, along with another (free!) rapid test 72 hours after arrival. The requirement does not apply to travelers under 11. Furthermore, travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine on arrival regardless of their vaccination status.
- A.E
The U.A.E — home to the popular cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi — is open to unvaccinated travelers. However, travel restrictions within the country vary between Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah. You should check for possible quarantine restrictions, documentation, and restrictions depending on the airport you arrive at. Nonetheless, the nation offers an excellent sunny winter break or a posh getaway any time of year. A 72-hour negative PCR test is required for entry.
- Jamaica
Jamaica is a wonderfully beautiful island in the Caribbean. What’s more, the island also allows unvaccinated tourists to enter for a care-free vacation. The nation is also looking to lift most internal restrictions by Spring 2022. All passengers entering Jamaica will need to provide a negative antigen or PCR test, taken no longer than 3-days before arrival. Tourists may need to take a COVID-19 test on arrival if they present any symptoms at all. If travelers have to take a test, travelers will have to wait in their hotel room until the test result comes back. Unvaccinated tourists must stay in the ‘resilient corridor’.
- Tanzania
Tanzania has been a very popular place throughout the pandemic for its relaxed rules all around, incredible nature, beautiful beaches, and tranquil lifestyle. Unvaccinated visitors may enter, but will need to either bring a 96-hour negative test, or be tested on arrival. While Tanzania still has some border rules in place, internal restrictions have been removed or downgraded to ‘recommended’. Mask wearing is only a strong suggestion by the government, but no country-wide mandate exists.
- Romania
Romania is an excellent destination to visit this winter if you’re looking for a budget destination with incredible gothic architecture. Unvaccinated travelers can enter Romania, but they must either choose between a 5-day quarantine or providing a negative 72-hour PCR test. Proof of recent recovery (14-180 days) will also exempt the traveler from quarantine and/or testing. Romania is still officially using the EU’s digital certificate, so unvaccinated will have to validate it with proof of recovery or a recent negative test to enter indoor public spaces.
- Turkey
Turkey, a nation home to endless excellent cities, national parks, and gorgeous beaches, is open to unvaccinated tourists in 2022. However, unvaccinated travelers must provide evidence of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival. Alternatively, unvaccinated travelers can provide evidence of a negative antigen test taken within 48 hours of arrival. Proof of recovery is also in effect.
- Egypt
If you’ve got a fascination with Ancient Egyptian history — and nobody would blame you — you’ll love visiting Egypt. Furthermore, unvaccinated travelers can enter the country, but they must provide evidence of a negative PCR test taken within 96 hours before arrival.
- South Africa
South Africa is open to unvaccinated tourists in 2022. In turn, that provides a fantastic sunny escape in the Southern Hemisphere. Travelers can provide evidence of a negative 72-hour PCR test before arrival. South Africa became one of the first nations in Africa to remove almost all COVID-19 restrictions. The only restrictions remaining in place are mandatory masks in public spaces and public transport. Although the nation is taking massive steps towards normality, there are still internal restrictions.
- Belize
Belize is open for unvaccinated travelers in 2022, as long as they provide proof of either a negative 48-hour antigen or 96-hour PCR test, book their stay in only ‘Gold’ standard accommodation, and buy mandatory health insurance.
- Ireland
Ireland ended all entry requirements in March 2022. Now all travelers, regardless of vaccination status can enter test-free!
