Under the title "Coronavirus Passport: Britain Sets Launch Date for Anticipated Document," Sky News reported on the possibility of British citizens obtaining a "Coronavirus Passport" in a few weeks, which London hopes will be used for international travel while exempting holders from COVID-19 related restrictions. The British newspaper "The Guardian" revealed that millions will receive "COVID Passports" on May 17th, allowing them to enjoy their usual summer vacations abroad. This British passport will help citizens avoid quarantine upon arriving at their destinations, as their government hopes.
The newspaper noted that the new travel documents will differ from domestic "COVID-19" certificates, indicating that these certificates are expected to be made available before international travel restrictions are lifted next month. This move comes after increased pressure on London to ensure that vaccinated individuals can travel and avoid entry restrictions into other countries. British Transport Minister Grant Shapps stated that the new passports would be part of international travel, expressing hope for international consensus.
At the same time, Shapps cautioned against reopening borders as before due to the risk posed by new virus variants. This warning comes at a time when health authorities in Britain announced the diagnosis of 55 cases of the Indian variant of the coronavirus, which the World Health Organization claims is less affected by known vaccines. A source in the Transportation Ministry indicated that the aim of issuing this digital or paper passport is to provide proof to countries that require verification of vaccination for travelers.
In this context, a source in the British government stated that the Foreign Office is in discussions with other countries to determine whether they will accept these documents. A list of countries welcoming British holders of these passports is expected to be announced on May 10, but travel companies will provide signals ahead of this date to plan flights.
