The government announced today (November 19) that it would add booster shots to the Covid–19 pass for outbound international travel, though it added they would not be added to the domestic pass at this time.
The Department of Health and Social Care said travellers who have had a booster or a third dose would be able to demonstrate their vaccine status through the NHS Covid Pass from today.
The addition will enable those who have had their booster or third dose to travel to countries including Israel, Croatia and Austria who have already introduced a time limit for the Covid-19 vaccine to be valid for quarantine free travel.
Booster and third doses will not be added to the domestic ‘Covid Pass’ as it is not a current requirement for individuals to receive booster doses to qualify as fully vaccinated. A booster is not necessary to travel into England.
Over 13 million booster and third jabs have now been administered in the UK as winter months approach with the programme expanded to those aged 40-49.
Health secretary Sajid Javid said: “We want to make it as easy as possible for people to show their vaccine status if they are travelling abroad.
“This update to the NHS Covid Pass will mean people can have their complete medical picture at their fingertips if they are going on holiday or seeing loved ones overseas.
“Getting a top-up jab is our best defence against this virus and I urge all those who are eligible to come forward and get boosted.”
The NHS Covid Pass enables people to demonstrate their Covid-19 status when travelling abroad or when visiting organisations who have opted to use the domestic certification process.
Since its launch on 17 May, almost 20 million people have accessed the Covid Pass via the NHS App.
