Much has changed since 2020 and 2021, when international travel was highly challenging – if not impossible – due to COVID-19. Many countries have had lingering restrictions and requirements for international travelers to try to control the spread of COVID. However, in the past year, many countries have changed or eliminated their requirements for travelers entering for a visit.
While many COVID-19 restrictions have loosened, it is important for travelers to respect the policies of any countries they visit. It is also critical to ensure you are healthy and COVID-free before traveling anywhere – especially to foreign countries.
If you have concerns about COVID or need a PCR test, Newport Urgent Care in Newport Beach can help. Learn more below about the COVID-19 policies of top international travel destinations in 2023.
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🇹🇭 Thailand |
Traveling to Thailand offers a rich cultural experience, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of Phuket, Thailand has something to offer every traveler.
Currently, Thailand considers the outbreak to be 100 percent contained and 83 percent of people are vaccinated. Here are some key points about COVID-19 and travel to Thailand:
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🇳🇿 New Zealand |
Traveling to New Zealand is a dream for many adventurers. With its stunning landscapes, from mountains to beaches, and unique wildlife, it offers unforgettable experiences. Remember to research visa requirements, check travel advisories, and explore the diverse attractions, such as Milford Sound and the vibrant city of Auckland.
New Zealand reports an almost 97 percent vaccination rate with a 99 percent containment rate for COVID-19. As of May 2023, all travelers can enter the country without showing any proof of negative testing or vaccinations. There are no restrictions on events or businesses being open, but some areas or establishments might require masks. |
🇬🇷 Greece |
Traveling to Greece is a journey through history and beauty. From the iconic white-washed buildings of Santorini to the ancient ruins of Athens, Greece offers a mix of breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. Explore stunning islands, immerse yourself in rich culture, and relax on picturesque beaches.
While only about 73 percent of Greece residents are vaccinated, the reported containment rate is over 97 percent. Travelers are allowed, and there are no nationwide restrictions due to COVID-19. However, the government still recommends wearing masks in many public locations. |
🇨🇦 Canada |
Traveling to Canada promises stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse cultural experiences. From the majestic mountains to the multicultural metropolis of Toronto, Canada offers something for everyone. Don’t forget to check visa requirements, explore national parks, and embrace the friendly Canadian hospitality.
COVID-19 is nearly 99 percent contained in Canada, and restrictions have been lifted throughout the country. This means you no longer have to present proof of a negative test or vaccinations to enter the country, and no quarantine is required for visitors entering Canada. |
🇨🇴 Colombia |
Traveling to Colombia is a captivating experience. From the colorful streets of Cartagena to the lush coffee plantations in the countryside, Colombia offers a mix of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. Discover its rich history, indulge in delicious cuisine, and explore the diverse natural wonders it has to offer.
Colombia reports that more than 100 percent of the population is vaccinated, and over 99 percent of COVID is contained. The country welcomes all travelers from every country with no additional requirements to enter the country, and no restrictions once you are visiting. |
🇫🇷 France |
Traveling to France is a journey through art, history, and gastronomy. From the romantic streets of Paris to the sun-kissed beaches of the French Riviera, France offers a wealth of cultural treasures, iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, and delectable cuisine like croissants and wine. Bon voyage!
France has a 97 percent containment rate, with 83 percent of residents vaccinated for COVID-19. While there are no mandatory restrictions in France, and travelers have no requirements to enter the country, the government still recommends masks for certain situations. |
🇮🇹 Italy |
Traveling to Italy is an enchanting experience. From the ancient ruins of Rome to the romantic canals of Venice and the picturesque coastline of the Amalfi Coast, Italy offers a blend of history, art, delicious food, and breathtaking landscapes. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and indulge in la dolce vita.
About 85 percent of Italians are vaccinated, and the containment rate is over 97 percent in Italy. While masks are still recommended in some places, there are no formal restrictions, and you do not need to meet any travel requirements to enter this paradise. |
🇭🇷 Croatia |
Traveling to Croatia is a delight for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. With its stunning Adriatic coastline, charming old towns like Dubrovnik and Split, and beautiful national parks like Plitvice Lakes, Croatia offers a unique blend of coastal beauty, rich history, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality.
While just over 50 percent of Croatians are vaccinated, the country reports close to a 100 percent containment rate for COVID-19. Travelers do not have to show any proof of testing or vaccines, but some areas still require mask-wearing. |
🇨🇳 China |
Traveling to China is an immersive journey through ancient traditions and modern marvels. From the iconic Great Wall to the vibrant cities of Beijing and Shanghai, China offers a captivating mix of cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, delectable cuisine, and a glimpse into its fascinating history and vibrant present.
China is suspected of presenting inaccurate reports of its COVID-19 picture. Estimates indicate that about 91 percent of people are vaccinated, but that the outbreak is only 72 percent contained. After three years, China has opened its borders to travelers again, with requirements. You will need to show a negative COVID-19 test before entering, though now it can be either a PCR or antigen test to meet the requirements. Previously, only PCR tests were acceptable, but this has been relaxed. Masks are still recommended in most places in China. |
🇧🇷 Brazil |
Traveling to Brazil is an exhilarating adventure. From the lively streets of Rio de Janeiro to the vast Amazon rainforest and the stunning beaches of Salvador, Brazil offers a diverse array of natural wonders, vibrant culture, samba rhythms, and mouthwatering cuisine. Experience the energy and warmth of this captivating country.
Brazil boasts a 99 percent containment rate and 100 percent vaccination rate. However, the country still has restrictions for COVID-19. Travelers will either need to show:
Once in Brazil, you should know that many areas have mask requirements and social distancing restrictions. Stay aware of the policies wherever you are visiting. |
🇬🇼 Guinea-Bissau |
Traveling to Guinea-Bissau is a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience. With its pristine beaches, lush mangroves, and diverse wildlife, this West African country offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Explore the vibrant capital city of Bissau and immerse yourself in the warmth and authenticity of this lesser-known destination.
Despite only 32 percent of people being vaccinated, COVID-19 is nearly 99 percent contained in Guinea-Bissau, with very few people currently sick with COVID. While borders have opened again, it comes with requirements. You must present either proof of full vaccination or a negative PCR test within 72 hours prior to entering the country. If you show symptoms of COVID-19 or someone on your plane was suspected to have COVID, you might have to isolate in quarantine in-country for 14 days before being in public or leaving the country. |
🇧🇴 Bolivia |
Traveling to Bolivia is an extraordinary adventure. From the stunning landscapes of the Uyuni Salt Flats to the majestic peaks of the Andes, Bolivia offers breathtaking natural beauty. Immerse yourself in indigenous cultures, explore ancient ruins like Tiwanaku, and discover the vibrant markets and colonial charm of cities like La Paz and Sucre.
Bolivia has a 67 percent vaccination rate and a 98 containment rate. While all travelers are welcome to Bolivia, you must show either:
Masks are recommended or required in many areas, and there might be some social distancing restrictions. |
🇳🇵 Nepal |
Traveling to Nepal is a journey of breathtaking mountain vistas, cultural immersion, and spiritual enlightenment. From the towering peaks of the Himalayas to the vibrant streets of Kathmandu, Nepal offers a unique blend of adventure, ancient temples, welcoming locals, and world-class trekking opportunities. Explore this Himalayan paradise and discover its enchanting charm.
With an 87 percent vaccination rate, Nepal considers itself to be 100 percent contained, with very few people sick from COVID-19. While all travelers are welcome, you must show either proof of:
Nepal recommends mask-wearing in many circumstances. |
🇲🇼 Malawi |
Traveling to Malawi is an opportunity to explore the warm heart of Africa. From the crystal-clear waters of Lake Malawi to the diverse wildlife of Liwonde National Park, Malawi offers stunning natural beauty. Immerse yourself in local culture, visit vibrant markets, and embark on unforgettable safaris and outdoor adventures.
Malawi is another country with a low vaccine rate (25 percent) but a high containment rate (99 percent). Borders are open, though commercial air travel into the country has not completely resumed. If you are entering the country, you must show either:
The country might also conduct random testing on visitors upon arrival in Malawi. Once there, know that masks are required in public places, and social gatherings are still restricted to fewer than 50 people. While restaurants, shops, and attractions are open, they have restrictions on how late they can be often. |
🇵🇭 Philippines |
Traveling to the Philippines is an enchanting experience. From the pristine beaches of Palawan to the vibrant streets of Manila, the Philippines offers a paradise of tropical beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Explore stunning islands, dive into crystal-clear waters, and immerse yourself in the friendly Filipino culture.
The Philippines has a 99 percent containment rate, with 73 percent of residents vaccinated. While anyone is allowed to travel to the Philippines, anyone over 15 must show:
Once there, masks are still recommended. |
🇲🇽 Mexico |
Traveling to Mexico is an immersive journey into a vibrant and diverse country. From the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza to the stunning beaches of Cancun and the bustling streets of Mexico City, Mexico offers a mix of history, natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. ¡Viva México!
Mexico has a 94 containment rate and a 75 percent vaccination rate. While visitors do not have to show proof of vaccinations or negative testing, you will need to sign a health declaration upon arrival. Masks are still required in certain areas, so be aware of local requirements. |
🇮🇸 Iceland |
Traveling to Iceland is like stepping into a magical wonderland. From the mesmerizing Northern Lights to the majestic waterfalls, geothermal hot springs, and stunning glaciers, Iceland offers a unique blend of otherworldly landscapes. Discover the charming capital city of Reykjavik and embark on thrilling adventures in this land of fire and ice.
Iceland has a high vaccination rate (97 percent), but a low containment rate (40 percent). There are no requirements to enter the country, but masks are still recommended in some places. |
🇪🇸 Spain |
Traveling to Spain is a sensory delight. From the architectural wonders of Barcelona to the vibrant streets of Madrid and the sunny beaches of Costa del Sol, Spain offers a blend of rich history, delicious cuisine, lively festivals, and warm Mediterranean hospitality. Explore the enchanting charm of this captivating country.
Spain has a 99 percent containment rate, and 87 percent of people are vaccinated. The country lifted all requirements and restrictions for those visiting the country, so you will not need to show proof of anything, whether you are vaccinated or not. |
🇯🇵 Japan |
Traveling to Japan is an immersive cultural experience. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto and the natural beauty of Mount Fuji, Japan offers a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. Discover exquisite cuisine, traditional arts, captivating festivals, and the warm hospitality of the Japanese people.
Japan has only a 67 percent containment rate, with 82 percent of people being vaccinated against COVID-19. The country opened its borders to foreign travelers in late 2022, and as of April 2023, you no longer must show proof of vaccines or negative COVID tests. Masks are recommended. |
🇵🇹 Portugal |
Traveling to Portugal is a journey of discovery. From the colorful streets of Lisbon to the historic charm of Porto and the golden beaches of the Algarve, Portugal offers a diverse range of experiences. Indulge in delicious cuisine, explore ancient castles and vineyards, and immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture and stunning landscapes.
While Portugal is another country with potentially inaccurate reporting, estimates show that the country has about a 90 percent vaccination rate and 99 percent containment rate. There are also no longer requirements for travelers entering Portugal due to recent changes. |
Even if you take all precautions and believe you meet all travel requirements, things can go wrong, and you can contract COVID-19. Visiting an urgent care facility for COVID-19 testing and treatment can provide convenient and efficient care for individuals experiencing symptoms or seeking testing. Here’s what you can expect when visiting an urgent care for COVID-19-related concerns.
Our urgent care center offers COVID-19 testing services, including both diagnostic tests (such as PCR or antigen tests) and antibody tests. These tests help determine whether you currently have the virus or have previously been exposed to it. It’s important to check with a specific urgent care facility beforehand to ensure they currently offer COVID-19 testing and to understand testing protocols.
The procedure is usually quick and relatively painless. The samples will then be sent to a laboratory for analysis, and you’ll typically receive the results within a few days.
If you visit our urgent care facility with COVID-19 symptoms or a confirmed positive test result, we will evaluate your condition and provide appropriate treatment options. While most COVID-19 cases are mild and can be managed at home with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications, our urgent care center can offer additional support.
Our healthcare team can assess your symptoms, provide recommendations for symptom relief, and offer guidance on self-isolation measures to prevent further spread of the virus. We can also refer you to a hospital or specialized care facility if your symptoms are severe and require advanced medical attention.
Just like international countries, urgent care centers also have policies necessary to prioritize the safety of their patients and staff regarding COVID-19. You can expect to encounter several safety measures in place and enhanced cleaning protocols.
Before visiting our urgent care facility for COVID-19 testing or treatment, it’s advisable to contact us in advance to understand our procedures for patients with suspected COVID.
