It looks like Americans will have to put their European travel plans on a temporary hold.
Europe will be opening up to tourists next month but it seems Americans are not included. On June 26, EU officials announced citizens from countries with a high number of active COVID-19 cases such as the United States and Brazil would not be allowed to enter once the EU opens its borders on July 1.
On Wednesday, Europe will open its borders to 18 countries including: Algeria, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, Montenegro, Morocco, New Zealand, Rwanda, Serbia, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia, Uruguay, Andorra, San Marino, Monaco and the Vatican. However, not on the list are Brazil, Russia, and the US.
In a set of guidelines for reopening released earlier in June, the European Commission stated that “the restriction should be lifted for countries selected together by Member States, based on a set of principles and objective criteria including the health situation, the ability to apply containment measures during travel, and reciprocity considerations, taking into account data from relevant sources such as ECDC and WHO.”
Countries like Greece and Spain who had previously stated they would be allowing American tourists as of early June or July are now adhering to the EU’s conditions. The US Embassy in Greece states:
“We are aware of media reports that the EU may bar travelers from the United States this summer. WE CANNOT CONFIRM THESE REPORTS. When the Greek government makes an official and confirmed announcement regarding travel restrictions effective July 1, we will update this page. We cannot answer questions regarding travel to Greece by U.S. citizens on or after July 1 at this time.”
But not all is lost! Other countries like the Dominican Republic are also opening to tourists on July 1 and Americans will be welcomed, so there’s still hope for your summer travel plans.
In other news: Hawaii Will Open Its Doors To Tourists Starting August 1.