The European Union’s Digital COVID Certificate is on track to be ready by the end of June after the European Parliament and European Council gave it the go-ahead.
EU President Ursulavon der Leyen said on Thursday evening: “We are delivering on our commitment to have the EU Digital COVID Certificate up and running before the summer. European citizens are looking forward to travelling again, and today’s agreement means they will be able to do so safely very soon.”
The certificate, which was previously called the Digital Green Certificate, will be free of charge, secure and accessible, Ms von der Leyen explained, adding: “It fully respects citizens’ fundamental rights, including protection of personal data.”
It is also available in a paper-based format, with a digitally signed QR code, if preferred.
She added: “All EU citizens have a fundamental right to free movement in the EU.
“The EU Digital COVID Certificate, available in paper or digital format, will make it easier for Europeans to travel – whether to see their families and loved ones or to get some well-deserved rest.”
In announcing the certificate, the EU said: “Member states shall refrain from imposing additional travel restrictions on the holders of an EU Digital COVID Certificate, unless they are necessary and proportionate to safeguard public health.”
The EC has said it will inject €100m to support member states in providing affordable COVID tests to get travel moving.
