Interactive EU map shows what Covid-19 travel restrictions are still in place

While the EU is often considered a single, unified entity, the Covid-19 pandemic saw many of its member states take on very different travel restrictions to help control the spread of the disease. Now, as case numbers fall across the continent, the EU is attempting to get international travel back up and running to allow those displaced by the pandemic return home, among other reasons.

From yesterday (15 June) the EU agreed to lift internal border controls and to prolong the temporary restriction on non-essential travel into the EU until 30 June. However, there is still much confusion over what rules other countries have for allowing people to enter, regardless of whether they are a national.

Will a visitor have to self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival? Is it possible to enter a country without needing a medical test?

‘Start exploring Europe safely again’

To help lessen the confusion, the European Commission has launched an interactive map and platform called ‘Re-open EU’ that will provide real-time information on borders and available means of transport and tourism services in member states.

It includes country-specific travel information that can be accessed by clicking on a country and selecting one of a number of options. It also lets a person know before arriving in a country whether services are currently open, such as cafés, tourist accommodation or museums.

“After weeks of confinement, EU internal borders are reopening,” said Thierry Breton, EU commissioner for the internal market.

“The Re-open EU website we are launching will provide travellers with easy access to information to help them confidently make their travel plans and stay safe during their trip. It will also help small restaurant and hotel owners, as well as towns across Europe, draw inspiration from innovative solutions developed by others.”

Mariya Gabriel, EU commissioner for innovation, research, culture, education and youth said the platform is one part of a larger effort to allow people to “start exploring Europe safely again”.