With countries recording a rise in COVID-19 Delta variant cases, many countries have been in a fix. While many have banned Indian travellers, some have gone ahead to lift travel bans on Indian travellers.
Here are some countries that have recently started to welcome Indian travellers. However, do note that travel rules might change any time. So, before making any international plans, make sure you check out the official government sites for latest updates.
Spain
Spain is all set to welcome travellers from India. Reportedly, Spain has already reopened its consular offices, so one can go ahead and apply for a Spain visa. As per the reports, interested travellers must be fully vaccinated. Note, Covaxin is not approved yet, whereas Covishield has been approved by Spain. Schengen visa is required, or you can apply for a Spanish visa through the online system.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom recently announced moving India from its high-alert ‘red list’ to the medium-risk ‘amber list’ from August 8. As per the foreign travel advice issued by the UK Government, the changes have been put into place from 4 AM, August 8. As per the updated rules, people travelling from India to the United Kingdom will now be at relative ease than before. As per the said rules, fully vaccinated passengers will no longer be obligated to undergo a 10-day hotel quarantine rule.
United States America
The United States has also eased travel restrictions for India, and has listed India to Level 3, lowering it from the highest, i.e., Level 4. As per the latest updates, the government still urges citizens to reconsider travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued Level 3 Travel Health Notice for India, and stated that, “Your risk of contracting COVID-19 and developing severe symptoms may be lower if you are fully vaccinated with an FDA authorised vaccine. Before planning any international travel, please review the CDC’s specific recommendations for vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers. Reconsider travel to India due to COVID-19. Exercise increased caution due to crime and terrorism.”
The United Arab Emirates
Recently, the National Emergency and Crisis Management Authority (NCEMA) stated that the United Arab Emirates will be lifting a ban on entry of Indian travellers and five other countries from August 5. Although restrictions on travel will still remain in place, the same will be relaxed for Indians who have a valid residency permit, and are fully vaccinated (those who have taken both doses of COVID vaccine). And, with the UAE lifting its ban on Indian travellers, Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Airways has announced that airlines will now launch its flights from August 7 from New Delhi, Kochi, Chennai, Trivandrum, and Bengaluru.