Israel to lift travel ban, cancelling its ‘red’ country Covid list

In a move that is likely to ease travel to and from Israel, the country is set to cancel its ‘red’ list of countries with high Covid infection rates and will move these countries to its orange and green lists dependent on their status. As before, inbound travellers are required to present a negative Covid test in order to board a flight (either PCR taken less than 72 hours prior the hour of departure or antigen less than 24 hours before departure) and take a PCR upon landing in Israel. The recommendation from the country’s Health Ministry is subject to full government approval. The Ministry said that, despite the relaxation in rules, it was still advising caution. Nevertheless, the move will allow Israelis to travel again anywhere in the world without needing special governmental permission, or to quarantine for a week upon their return – provided they are fully vaccinated under the Health Ministry’s criteria. Earlier this week it was agreed by several Israel Government Ministries all foreign visitors from orange and green countries will be allowed to visit Israel starting from 9 January. Inbound travellers are required to present a negative Covid test in order to board a flight (either PCR taken less than 72 hours prior the hour of departure or antigen less than 24 hours before departure) and take a PCR upon landing in Israel. Those who are vaccinated will be able to leave quarantine as soon as they receive the results or after 24 hours; those who aren’t must stay quarantined for a week and take a second test on the seventh day. For more information on Covid-19 please see Israel’s official government website here Photo: Tel Aviv, Dana Friedlander