Vacationers looking to hit the pink sandy beaches and beautiful coastline of Bermuda will be happy to hear that the small island is looking to loosen COVID-19 entry rules this coming spring.
Covid-19 Norms
Bermuda, the quaint picturesque island off the east coast of the United States has had some of the strictest entry rules since the beginning of the pandemic. When Bermuda opened their doors back to travellers in the summer of 2020, tourists were forced to undergo a variety of different protocols that are still presently being enforced. Bermuda’s Entry Rules
Currently, any visitors over the age of 18 MUST be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Prior to the flight, vaccinated travellers are also required to receive a PCR test (within 4 days of travel) or an antigen test (within 3 days of travel) to Bermuda. Once arriving at the airport, these travellers are then required to receive ANOTHER PCR test and must quarantine for roughly 24 hours until their results come in. After a negative test result, travellers are free to roam the island, but must take an antigen test after 4 days of their arrival. These tests are all included in the $75 cost of the Travel Authorization that must be filled out 1-3 days prior to arriving in Bermuda. When applying for this authorization, travellers will be asked to upload vaccine information as well as test results.
Unvaccinated travellers face similar pre-travel requirements, but much harsher regulations once they arrive. These travellers are required to test prior to boarding their flight to Bermuda, get a PCR test upon landing, quarantine for ten days, and finally take a day 10 antigen test with a negative result. All travellers over 10 years old will be fitted with a red wristband upon arrival. The wristbands must be worn until a traveller’s negative test result is received on day 10.
Changes in the Policy
But this week, Bermuda made a huge announcement. Beginning March 5th visitors will still need to complete the Travellers Authorization with their information 24-48 hours prior to arrival. They will also have to show proof of current vaccination status and a negative COVID-19 test result (antigen AND PCR test are allowed) within two days before arriving on the island. However, no other testing is required or a quarantine. Bermuda defines fully vaccinated as someone who has received a second dose within six months OR three doses of the vaccine.