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OBSOLETE COVID THREAD 🦠 latest update and June 7th for US travelers

OBSOLETE COVID THREAD
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El Cascayal

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Hello to all. Do any of you there in Spain know whether in fact travelers from the US who are fully vaccinated will be allowed to fly in starting June 7? If so will prior 72 hour 🦠 PCR be required? I read conflicting information last night, saying no, and freaked a little. I got a flight for June 9 booked to do a “ snack” Camino & Oseira monastery retreat. Thought? Facts? Gracias!
Aymarah
 
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Hello to all. Do any of you there in Spain know whether in fact travelers from the US who are fully vaccinated will be allowed to fly in starting June 7? If so will prior 72 hour 🦠 PCR be required? I read conflicting information last night, saying no, and freaked a little. I got a flight for June 9 booked to do a “ snack” Camino & Oseira monastery retreat. Thought? Facts? Gracias!
Aymarah
The Spanish authorities have announced that from June 7, the country will allow entry for Americans and other travellers from all over the world who have undergone the vaccination process using one of the vaccines approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

Nonetheless, everyone will still be required to present a negative COVID-19 test result upon entry, SchengenVisaInfo.com reports.

Vaccinated travellers should prove that they have received all the required vaccine doses at least 14 days before entering Spain.

In contrast, travellers from countries that are part of the Coronavirus safe countries’ list will be allowed entry without even having to submit a negative test result. Japan, Australia, and New Zealand are some of the countries included on the list.

Moreover, the Spanish authorities announced that they would allow entry to unvaccinated children as well, provided that they are travelling together with their vaccinated parents. Nonetheless, this does not apply to children over the age of six as they still need to present a negative COVID-19 test result.

Following the announcement from Spain, United Airlines disclosed that from June, they would resume their service of five flights a week between New York/Newark and Barcelona, and their six times a week flight service between New York/Newark and Madrid.

The airline company also plans to increase flights all over Europe, reaching countries that are to welcome travellers from the US.

Similarly, American Airlines also plans to double its flight services to Spain during June. The carrier is currently operating two flights to Spain daily, from Miami International Airport to Barcelona and from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport to Madrid.

Spain’s travel and tourism sector, which heavily relies on foreign travellers and is a key driver of the country’s recovery, has suffered severely from the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020 foreign tourism of Spain registered a drop of 80 per cent due to preventative restrictions in Europe and all over the world.

However, as for 2021, Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expects that with the revival of the travel and tourism sector, the country’s GDP will also benefit and allow arrivals to reach up to 70 per cent of pre-pandemic levels by the end of the year.

It is forecasted that this summer’s arrivals could reach somewhere between 30 to 40 per cent of levels of 2019.

Previously, Spain abolished its entry restrictions for all travellers from the UK, meaning that Britons will no longer be subject to quarantine and testing requirements.

The head of the European Commission also revealed that fully vaccinated US travellers will be able to visit other EU countries as well during this summer.

Enjoy your stay🙏
 
Thank you Peter, I appreciate you taking your time to respond. I read this article last night and other information previously posted on the forum. There was some conflicting information on official Spanish Health site dated May 27 that current hold on travel from US would be extended until June 30th except for cruise ships, which seems very strange.
 
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I do not read Spanish and must rely on Google Translate to try to understand these documents. Could somebody please have a look at this form https://www.boe.es/diario_boe/txt.php?id=BOE-A-2021-8972? The link is found on the Travel Safe website (https://travelsafe.spain.info/en/) when I looked up travel restrictions for USA travelers. I quote from Travel Safe: "
At this time it is not allowed to travel to Spain from this country except for exceptional reasons (see exceptions here, only in Spanish).

Important: restrictions have been extended until June 30, 2021. See here the information (only in Spanish). From 7th June, new rules are allowed for international cruises (see information here, only in Spanish). "

I'm guessing this means that Americans can't leave on June 7th????
 
This is the notification I encountered last night.😞
Yes, I have a flight the 7th. Luckily with airline miles so can all be returned to my account but all the reservations I made.... If I'm reading it right, we can't enter now until the 30th..
 
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Thanks. AA just cancelled part of my flight for jun 21 so I feared the worst.
 
Update. Just spoke with American Airlines as my trip has now been cancelled/rebooked twice and an third time with *no* notice of major change. Yikes. I am flying Denver-Madrid in late June.

1- Spain is now only allowing USA entry from certain cities. I was bumped out of Charlotte and now must fly thru Dallas, as Charlotte is not an 'accepted' city by Spain. CHECK YOUR FLIGHT CONNECTIONS!!.

2- COVID testing must be done TWICE. AA informed me I would have to have a test before boarding in Dallas AND upon touch down in Madrid per Spain law. For return, just one test to enter US as before.

As always, evolving. Keep the faith. Hope this helps
 
Yeah, it sounds really nerve-wracking, @lisaflora . Don't forget to breathe. ;)
Easy for me to say, but the situation is changing day by day, and given what is going on who knows what will be in place by the time you fly.
This was posted in the context of a different discussion, but the same good advice applies:
You need to consult the government websites of [...] Spain and not go by anything else.
It can\t hurt to double check the info the airline gave you. They should know but maybe not.
 
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CHECK YOUR FLIGHT CONNECTIONS!!.

Good advice!

AA informed me I would have to have a test before boarding in Dallas AND upon touch down in Madrid per Spain law. Absolutely preposterous and makes no scientific sense,

Spain is in its good right to decide what is best to protect its population (and visitors), as is every country. Don’t question that, just comply – or hold your travel plans.

(I assume you are an epidemiologist?)
 
Lisa, thank you for your update, warning and tip.

2- COVID testing must be done TWICE. AA informed me I would have to have a test before boarding in Dallas AND upon touch down in Madrid per Spain law. Absolutely preposterous and makes no scientific sense, but it is what it is. For return, just one test to enter US as before.

But as for the above, it makes sense to me. Spain doesn't want you to board a plane to visit if you test positive. It also has no way to ensure that a test done in another country is valid. We'll just have to put up with it.
 
Update. Just spoke with American Airlines as my trip has now been cancelled/rebooked twice and an third time with *no* notice of major change. Yikes. I am flying Denver-Madrid in late June.

1- Spain is now only allowing USA entry from certain cities. I was bumped out of Charlotte and now must fly thru Dallas, as Charlotte is not an 'accepted' city by Spain. CHECK YOUR FLIGHT CONNECTIONS!!.

2- COVID testing must be done TWICE. AA informed me I would have to have a test before boarding in Dallas AND upon touch down in Madrid per Spain law. Absolutely preposterous and makes no scientific sense, but it is what it is. For return, just one test to enter US as before.

As always, evolving. Keep the faith. Hope this helps
Are you vaccinated? When was your flight scheduled? Currently it is not June 7th yet? Could still be be-old rules?

Are you sure AA is not consolidating flights? Why would Spain reject Charlotte?
There are cases of the double Indian variant, but it-is no more contagious than the British or Brazilian and the vaccine takes care of it https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/h...rain/275-3dccde99-5a7f-4e83-a86a-60b7fcc7aefc
 
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The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
I do not read Spanish and must rely on Google Translate to try to understand these documents. Could somebody please have a look at this form https://www.boe.es/diario_boe/txt.php?id=BOE-A-2021-8972? The link is found on the Travel Safe website (https://travelsafe.spain.info/en/) when I looked up travel restrictions for USA travelers. I quote from Travel Safe: "
At this time it is not allowed to travel to Spain from this country except for exceptional reasons (see exceptions here, only in Spanish).

Important: restrictions have been extended until June 30, 2021. See here the information (only in Spanish). From 7th June, new rules are allowed for international cruises (see information here, only in Spanish). "

I'm guessing this means that Americans can't leave on June 7th????
I believe that states the rule that has been in effect and will be in effect until June 7.
 
Google translate says:
Council Recommendation (EU) 2020/912, of June 30, on the temporary restriction of non-essential travel to the European Union and the possible lifting of said restriction, established a list of third countries whose residents were exempt from the restrictions travel to the European Union, as well as a set of specific categories of people also exempt from these restrictions, regardless of their place of origin. This Recommendation has been modified on successive occasions to adapt the list of third countries to the epidemiological circumstances, or to modify the criteria for preparing said list.

The aforementioned Council Recommendation (EU) 2020/912, of June 30, and its modifications are applied in Spain through Order INT / 657/2020, of July 17, which modifies the criteria for the application of a temporary restriction of non-essential travel from third countries to the European Union and Schengen associated countries for reasons of public order and public health due to the health crisis caused by COVID-19, with its extensions and modifications, whose effects conclude on 31 December May at 24:00.

The effectiveness of Order INT / 657/2020, of July 17, is hereby extended until June 30.
 
The Spanish authorities have announced that from June 7, the country will allow entry for Americans and other travellers from all over the world who have undergone the vaccination process using one of the vaccines approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

Nonetheless, everyone will still be required to present a negative COVID-19 test result upon entry, SchengenVisaInfo.com reports.

Vaccinated travellers should prove that they have received all the required vaccine doses at least 14 days before entering Spain.

In contrast, travellers from countries that are part of the Coronavirus safe countries’ list will be allowed entry without even having to submit a negative test result. Japan, Australia, and New Zealand are some of the countries included on the list.

Moreover, the Spanish authorities announced that they would allow entry to unvaccinated children as well, provided that they are travelling together with their vaccinated parents. Nonetheless, this does not apply to children over the age of six as they still need to present a negative COVID-19 test result.

Following the announcement from Spain, United Airlines disclosed that from June, they would resume their service of five flights a week between New York/Newark and Barcelona, and their six times a week flight service between New York/Newark and Madrid.

The airline company also plans to increase flights all over Europe, reaching countries that are to welcome travellers from the US.

Similarly, American Airlines also plans to double its flight services to Spain during June. The carrier is currently operating two flights to Spain daily, from Miami International Airport to Barcelona and from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport to Madrid.

Spain’s travel and tourism sector, which heavily relies on foreign travellers and is a key driver of the country’s recovery, has suffered severely from the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020 foreign tourism of Spain registered a drop of 80 per cent due to preventative restrictions in Europe and all over the world.

However, as for 2021, Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expects that with the revival of the travel and tourism sector, the country’s GDP will also benefit and allow arrivals to reach up to 70 per cent of pre-pandemic levels by the end of the year.

It is forecasted that this summer’s arrivals could reach somewhere between 30 to 40 per cent of levels of 2019.

Previously, Spain abolished its entry restrictions for all travellers from the UK, meaning that Britons will no longer be subject to quarantine and testing requirements.

The head of the European Commission also revealed that fully vaccinated US travellers will be able to visit other EU countries as well during this summer.

Enjoy your stay🙏
Thanks.
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
Update. Just spoke with American Airlines as my trip has now been cancelled/rebooked twice and an third time with *no* notice of major change. Yikes. I am flying Denver-Madrid in late June.

1- Spain is now only allowing USA entry from certain cities. I was bumped out of Charlotte and now must fly thru Dallas, as Charlotte is not an 'accepted' city by Spain. CHECK YOUR FLIGHT CONNECTIONS!!.

2- COVID testing must be done TWICE. AA informed me I would have to have a test before boarding in Dallas AND upon touch down in Madrid per Spain law. Absolutely preposterous and makes no scientific sense, but it is what it is. For return, just one test to enter US as before.

As always, evolving. Keep the faith. Hope this helps
Thanks very much for this head's up. I'm scheduled out of Boston in July.
 
It concerns me that US citizens will need to get a COVID 19 test within 72 hours of entering Spain. There are limited locations to do this in St Jean, and the result will not be available until the following day? We will arrive in St Jean around 11:30 am on Thursday, 16 Sept and will spend the night. We plan to start hiking at 7:00 am the following day. So how long will we need to delay our start waiting for the test result? Each of the three CF we've walked, it has taken us 8 hours to walk from St Jean to Roncesvalles. Imagine not being able to leave until noon! Hope all this changes in the next few months! Bob
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
It concerns me that US citizens will need to get a COVID 19 test within 72 hours of entering Spain. There are limited locations to do this in St Jean, and the result will not be available until the following day? We will arrive in St Jean around 11:30 am on Thursday, 16 Sept and will spend the night. We plan to start hiking at 7:00 am the following day. So how long will we need to delay our start waiting for the test result? Each of the three CF we've walked, it has taken us 8 hours to walk from St Jean to Roncesvalles. Imagine not being able to leave until noon! Hope all this changes in the next few months! Bob

Quite frankly, if USA tourists, and others from overseas, that have been vaccinated with WHO recognized vaccines, have to arrive and then get a PCR test, wait for results, for on-average about a two week vacation...they will go elsewhere.
 
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Hi lisadora I am scheduled to travel from Miami to Pamplona June 21, I’m vaccinated, I just call Iberia and they told me that as of “now” I also have to have the test done with enough time that by the time I stop in Madrid as a layover is within the 72 hours🤷‍♀️She expressed to me that
I should not have a problem arriving to Pamplona since their plan is to open June 7; mind you from Miami to the layover in Madrid is AA. We need to check again closer to the time of flying. 🤞
 
This is all good info and a good reminder to keep checking in due to how fluid this all is.
I'm flying Iberia to Barcelona on June 23 with a layover in Miami.
Stay safe.
 
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Buen Camino Brian
 
Hi lisadora I am scheduled to travel from Miami to Pamplona June 21, I’m vaccinated, I just call Iberia and they told me that as of “now” I also have to have the test done with enough time that by the time I stop in Madrid as a layover is within the 72 hours🤷‍♀️She expressed to me that
I should not have a problem arriving to Pamplona since their plan is to open June 7; mind you from Miami to the layover in Madrid is AA. We need to check again closer to the time of flying. 🤞
I always use Iberia as I live in Mexico and the consistently have the best fares and length of flights from here. Hopefully everything goes smoothly at the Madrid airport. Please drop a note if there is a problem in Madrid with Iberia if you can. Thanks. I am not going until mid October and I know things will be different by then, hopefully for the better but who knows.
 
The Charlotte to Madrid AA non-stop flight doesn’t seem to be scheduled until mid August. A relative previously booked through Charlotte for late June was changed by AA to connect in Dallas.
AFAIK Spain still requires the RT-PCR test negative result, sample being taken within 72 hours of arrival at MAD From the US. Proof of vaccination will “most likely” be the CDC card given you when vaccinated.
 
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Initially when I heard the big news on the EU opening up for fully vaccinated tourists this summer I was overjoyed. I had planned to walk the Le Puy last year and was looking forward to walking it this year. However, upon further exploration and reading, it looked iffy to me at this time given the unpredictability of the COVID-19 in general and the variants in particular. I've decided to take a wait and see approach. I would like to wish the best to all who already have specific plans. Buen camino.
 
Of course for those starting in St Jean it's the French regulations and restrictions that need dealing with first. Given I'm in the UK a start in St Jean is not feasible for the moment.
 
There will be rules and they will be followed. I don't think we know enough about the disease to make any statements. Until the world is vaccinated there will be no end to COVID and maybe not even then. At current rate, it will be years before everyone who wants to be vaccinated will have the opportunity.

I don't think 2022 is any better choice than now. Each government will set rules and if we want to travel we will have to follow them or not travel. Like it or not. At the same time, I have no issue with opinions expressing like or dislike or rules, just follow them.

I will be surprised if there are not infection waves this Winter and years on. We just have to adjust and live with the disease.

Ultreya,
Joe
 
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Does anyone know the process if you come in from France via train from Paris? I have a flight to Paris on August 21st and plan to go to the start of the Camino by train.

thanks
 
Does anyone know the process if you come in from France via train from Paris? I have a flight to Paris on August 21st and plan to go to the start of the Camino by train.

than
It's too early to know what will happen in August. Keep checking with French Embassy.
 
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Does anyone know the process if you come in from France via train from Paris? I have a flight to Paris on August 21st and plan to go to the start of the Camino by train.

thanks
James

It is impossible, imo, for someone to answer your question at this time. Many of us our anxious to walk and countries are wanting to open up tourism. Therefore, I believe it will happen and hopefully there will not be another surge.

My suggestion would be to make your reservations when you are ready, follow up with government guidelines as the day nears and be prepared to adjust based on conditions on the ground.

Best regards,
Joe

I am planning on late September myself, fingers crossed.
 
St James' Way - Self-guided 4-7 day Walking Packages, Reading to Southampton, 110 kms
As @Kathar1na has explained in this thread, the EU is providing the framework for the digital vaccination certification and other covid regulations, while each country is implementing its own system. See particularly her posts numbers 16 and 34.

What that tells me is that at this point it could add another layer of unnecessary complication for US citizens to go from US to SJPP to Spain. France will have its own set of regulations for accepting US citizens, and Spain will as well. Getting into the EU doesn’t mean you are home free if different countries maintain different covid regulations, as is their prerogative. Though we haven’t thought much in terms of national borders for years in Europe, this is one clear example of their enduring importance.

No one knows how this system is going to evolve, but based on what we do know, I think it’s pretty clear that US citizens can reduce the number of potential hiccups by flying in and out of Spain and leaving SJPP for another day. I am still hoping for a fall camino, but have given up the idea of the Geira e dos Arrieiros, which would take me from Spain to Portugal to Spain. I am not even going to consider a flight schedule with transit in another EU country. Point to point US-Spain-US. There may still be complications, but if we aren’t accepting of the potential for complications and delay, this is not the year for US citizens to walk the camino, IMO.
 
Get two PCR tests in America.
First to allow you to fly & get to SJPP.
The second test take just before you fly to france. These results take 24/48 hours, so only get to you once you are already in SJPP. Use 2nd test to exit france.
 
@peregrina2000 said #34

“No one knows how this system is going to evolve, but based on what we do know, I think it’s pretty clear that US citizens can reduce the number of potential hiccups by flying in and out of Spain and leaving SJPP for another day. I am still hoping for a fall camino, but have given up the idea of the Geira e dos Arrieiros, which would take me from Spain to Portugal to Spain. I am not even going to consider a flight schedule with transit in another EU country. Point to point US-Spain-US. There may still be complications, but if we aren’t accepting of the potential for complications and delay, this is not the year for US citizens to walk the camino, IMO.”

The first thing I considered when making my reservations last November, 2020 for 9/21 was The KISS Principle! (Keep it simple stupid) The KISS principle states that most systems work best if they are kept simple rather than made complicated.

I recalled that different countries closed their EU borders at different times when the pandemic began and then chaos ensued. I realized, as @peregrina2000 is suggesting to you all, try not to complicate your travel plans if you haven’t made them yet!

Consider the snares you may face traveling between EU countries if you are coming from abroad!

IMO if you can travel to MAD ot BCN direct and then take local transport, consider doing so!

If you are coming from a smaller market city, for those from the USA, and it requires a change, for example in Boston, or LAX or EWR, or Miami, and then you can go directly to Spain, Consider that....

This year, I, personally, would not fly Lufthansa, British Airways, Aer Lingus, Swiss, Or any other European airline that would require you to transfer in another country.

American (partners with Iberia) Delta and United fly directly to MAD and BCN! If you want to go say, to Bilbao then change planes in Spain....skip changing in MUC if you can.

These suggestions might take a bit longer and maybe even cost a little more
but in the end it may be prudent to deal with only one overseas government’s rules and bureaucracy and with your own national airlines that will know yours.
 
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A PCR test within 48 hours where I live runs $250 per test. Your suggestion would not be viable for many pilgrims on a budget.
Wow. They are free in New Jersey. Where I live.
 
For all Travellers from all countries Official website France Embassy for information covid travel as of 31 May 2021 : https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/c...virus-advice-for-foreign-nationals-in-france/

For US Travellers only the official US site https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html
Excerpt from French embassy page “The president of France has laid out a reopening plan that would allow “foreign tourists” with a health pass (tied to being fully vaccinated or having a negative COVID-19 PCR test) to enter France beginning June 9, 2021 if COVID-19 levels remain under control. It is not yet known if travelers from the United States will be included among the foreign tourists allowed to enter. Nor does the U.S. Embassy have any information at this time about what the “health pass” will be or how to obtain one. Interested travelers should visit the website for the French Embassy in the United States for the latest information. Updates will be provided on this page as we receive them.” I think its important to note this will change and this page updated slightly on June 9th for France.
Spain as I see will updated June 7th

There are also official links from the above site to PCR testing sites for all countries which I will update in a moment click on the country then you will see the link for available PCR testing site information

You can find spain testing site by clicking on Spain https://travel.state.gov/content/tr...es/COVID-19-Country-Specific-Information.html
For France testing site. Open in Chrome for translation it will ask for the Provence then the city


Continue to monitor these sites (with official links to Spain and France) and you cannot go wrong. Hope this helps clear up some of the confusion.
 
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A PCR test within 48 hours where I live runs $250 per test. Your suggestion would not be viable for many pilgrims on a budget.
The whole idea of travel to another country depends on the person having adequate budget to do so! Learning the costs of various options is part of the planning and decision-making that each traveler must do.
 
€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
Get two PCR tests in America.
First to allow you to fly & get to SJPP.
The second test take just before you fly to france. These results take 24/48 hours, so only get to you once you are already in SJPP. Use 2nd test to exit france.
This does not seem very practical, too me. SJPdP is not some official starting point. It would simplify matters to start in Roncesvalles or Pamplona.

Plus, you would be dependent on an outside source to ensure you received results.

That said, unless you are traveling under current rules, these comments are all moot.

Ultreya,
Joe
 
so at this point and perhaps might change after June 7 and June 30, a PCR test taken within 72 hours is required to enter Spain (https://es.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/). My only dilemma is if I wait for Spain entry requirements to change after June 30, our Sept trip might be more expensive but if I buy the tickets after June 7 and if EU disallows US citizens again after that, we would lose our non-refundable tickets which will be very expensive. In the grand scheme of things, there's plenty of space for outdoors stateside but not allowing American tourists to Spain might have some economic impact no matter how small. It's a delicate balance of safety and economic realities.
 
so at this point and perhaps might change after June 7 and June 30, a PCR test taken within 72 hours is required to enter Spain (https://es.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/). My only dilemma is if I wait for Spain entry requirements to change after June 30, our Sept trip might be more expensive but if I buy the tickets after June 7 and if EU disallows US citizens again after that, we would lose our non-refundable tickets which will be very expensive. In the grand scheme of things, there's plenty of space for outdoors stateside but not allowing American tourists to Spain might have some economic impact no matter how small. It's a delicate balance of safety and economic realities.
If the EU disallows American tourists...the odds are the flight would likely be cancelled...so check with your airlines...about whether they would give refund or voucher under those conditions.
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
If the EU disallows American tourists...the odds are the flight would likely be cancelled...so check with your airlines...about whether they would give refund or voucher under those conditions.
Sound advise. Also many airlines are advertising the incentive of “no cost” ticket change or no rebooking fee for non refundable tickets. And of course you can always buy the refundable ticket for more money. Forgot to mention if you buy travel insurance you maybe able to claim your ticket/travel cost (within the rules of course) so read your policy exclusions and coverage carefully. Plan carefully and use official sources for your travel information Good luck all
 
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I understand how people are chomping at the bit to get back to the camino, but we are piling speculations on top of shaky assumptions.

As of today, there is no US tourist travel into Spain. As of today, the PCR test requirements apply to travelers from the US who are admitted to Spain under the exceptions for ”essential travel.” Those individuals must have an RT-PCR test done less than 72 hours before arrival in Spain. Those test results have to show the holder’s passport number, which in most cases means that the traveler from the US is going to have to add a step to the process, getting the results printed out and finding a doctor or lab who will certify the results and put the passport number on the printed test results. There was a forum member who reported back a few months ago and confirmed that this was what he or she had to do. I know of no covid test result in the US that includes the patient’s passport number. But that is really a moot point now, since none of us are going to walk a camino under that regime, since we will clearly not be admitted as “essential travelers.”

As of this moment, there is no certainty about what the requirements for entry will be once Spain authorizes US tourists. We know (or we think we know) it will be limited to those who are vaccinated. We thought it was going to open up on June 7. Will Spain require those vaccinated tourists to take a covid test before and/or after arrival? Who knows.

This is worse than waiting to open the presents sitting under the tree, I know, but I think waiting is all we can do right now.
 
I understand how people are chomping at the bit to get back to the camino, but we are piling speculations on top of shaky assumptions.

As of today, there is no US tourist travel into Spain. As of today, the PCR test requirements apply to travelers from the US who are admitted to Spain under the exceptions for ”essential travel.” Those individuals must have an RT-PCR test done less than 72 hours before arrival in Spain. Those test results have to show the holder’s passport number, which in most cases means that the traveler from the US is going to have to add a step to the process, getting the results printed out and finding a doctor or lab who will certify the results and put the passport number on the printed test results. There was a forum member who reported back a few months ago and confirmed that this was what he or she had to do. I know of no covid test result in the US that includes the patient’s passport number. But that is really a moot point now, since none of us are going to walk a camino under that regime, since we will clearly not be admitted as “essential travelers.”

As of this moment, there is no certainty about what the requirements for entry will be once Spain authorizes US tourists. We know (or we think we know) it will be limited to those who are vaccinated. We thought it was going to open up on June 7. Will Spain require those vaccinated tourists to take a covid test before and/or after arrival? Who knows.

This is worse than waiting to open the presents sitting under the tree, I know, but I think waiting is all we can do right now.
And add to that the requirements for those who fly into Spain and then want to travel to France to start in SJPdP!
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
My friend is still holding a ticket for June 7th on Delta From the US. We were going to try entering Portugal after some reports that it is possible, flying into Madrid and continue to Portugal In Transit.

I am a standby, easy for me to change dates.

Might be a bit far-fetched? also, will we be able to walk into Tui Spain from Portugal?
 
Ireland will start welcoming travellers from European Union countries, as well as those coming from the United States and the United Kingdom, from July 19, when the government vowed that it will launch the EU’s COVID-19 passport that aims to facilitate the movement for all vaccinated persons.
How does one from the U.S. get one of these passports?
 
How does one from the U.S. get one of these passports?
You will not get an EU digital vaccination certificate when you live in the USA and you have not been vaccinated in an EU country, or in three or four other specific European countries.

If you can get a digital vaccination certificate from elsewhere, perhaps from IATA or from your airline, you need to find out whether there is an automatic recognition and verification system set up by the EU. None of this has been decided yet, let alone come to fruition, if ever. You will have to travel with your vaccination proof on paper and comply with the rules that go with it.
 
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How does one from the U.S. get one of these passports?

Right now, Americans are waiting for individual countries, not the EU, to decide WHEN they will, by country, be allowed in, AND WHAT their particular requirements will be. Spain, Italy, France,.... All know that we only have our vaccinations cards. Stay tuned...
 
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Will paper "Record Card" from the USA be accepted for verification of Covid-19 vaccinatioin?
I have the paper document as well as an app (My Chart) which documents the appointments with my health care provider and the particular vaccine I received.
 
Get two PCR tests in America.
First to allow you to fly & get to SJPP.
The second test take just before you fly to france. These results take 24/48 hours, so only get to you once you are already in SJPP. Use 2nd test to exit france.
This is exactly what I am thinking too. I will be flying in to CDG/France then hopefully catching EasyJet on to Bayonne, then train on to SJPP (a very long day as I'm flying from Washington State). Since my flight leaves Spokane at 11 I hope to drive thru at 8am Walgreens to get my second rapid test for Spain entry. I will be flying Delta and here is what their website says about timing: Most testing requirements have specific time frames you must comply with in order for your test results to be considered valid for your trip. You will want to consider the date and time of your trip in order to calculate when you should take your test to meet the requirements. If your travel involves changing time zones, remember to take that into account when selecting your test time.

Keeping a close eye on each country's government regulations. With all this said, my fingers are crossed that these steps may be reduced or eliminated.
 
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Make sure that it is a PCR test, and not an antigen test.
When these vaxx passports do get implemented, my understanding is that antigen will be acceptable. Including just test result on paper. Also valid would be documentary proof of recovery from Covid19. But yes, for the time being it's PCR or Lateral Flow test only for entry into Spain by port or airport. Not sure about Portugal. Or Gibraltar.

However, it is still FAR too early to talk about travel dates from outside the EU for the purposes of pilgrimage, outside of some particular country of origin exceptions for Spain and Portugal.

The rough target date is July 1st, though some individual countries may target June 21st, and the EU has requested an overall acceleration of the scheme.
 
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If your travel involves changing time zones, remember to take that into account when selecting your test time.
Good point. Travel from West to East from North America means losing as much as 8 hours, 12 if you're from Alaska.
 
From June 7th, entry is to be allowed into Spain for those fully vaccinated at least 14 days before travel date.
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
From June 7th, entry is to be allowed into Spain for those fully vaccinated at least 14 days before travel date.
Maybe:
USA, Canada, UK and Rest of The World:
  • General entry ban recommended by the EU; put into law by Spain until 30 June 2021 with the exception of the UK whose travellers are currently exempt from this entry ban as far as Spain is concerned. (INT/657/2020)
The Whole World:
  • There are still hopes that Spain will put into law what Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced earlier in May: that travellers from the EU and from the USA and from most if not all other countries of the world who are vaccinated against Covid-19 will be allowed to enter Spain as of 7 June 2021 - no PCR test, no self-isolation, just proof of vaccination required. No such decree has been published to date.
 
Maybe ... [No such decree has been published to date]

From Monday, vaccinated travellers from all over the world will be able to enter Spain, not just Europeans. This was announced by the President of the Government, Pedro Sánchez, on 21 May at Fitur, although the fine print of this decision is still unknown. The decree will be published in principle this Saturday in the Official State Gazette (BOE), according to [...] sources, and will come into force on Monday as previously announced. Link to full article in El Pais, 4 June 2021.

There will be exceptions, i.e. even vaccinated travellers can be banned from entry into Spain when travelling from a country with Covid-19 virus variants that give rise to concern.
 
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As Kathar1na has said.
 
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Just a quick FYI for US travelers with access to Quest Diagnostics Labs (I have no affiliation to this company). They work with Walmart and CVS pharmacies. They provide PCR testing and in most cases your insurance will pay for the test with assistance thru government funding. here is the link you can see if you qualify.


Once thru the process of the questions create an account set an appointment and it will send a confirmation with QR code. You will be able to change date and times as necessary or cancel if so desired. Make sure you choose the right test
The site will also show you turn around times ( to keep notice for flight requirements i.e. 72 hrs) and you can download the app for quick access to the results. I just did it for travel mid July to France and had no problems...I now have an appointment scheduled in a drive thru Walmart pharmacy (quest lab)and my insurance is paying even though I do not have active symptoms of infection. My PCR results will be ready within 24hrs but I scheduled 48 hrs out just to be sure.

This is not an endorsement but I hope this helps alleviate some anxiety

In Post #38 I included official links to PCR testing sites for Spain and France
 
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Just a quick FYI for US travelers with access to Quest Diagnostics Labs (I have no affiliation to this company). They work with Walmart and CVS pharmacies. They provide PCR testing and in most cases your insurance will pay for the test with assistance thru government funding. here is the link you can see if you qualify.


Once thru the process of the questions create an account set an appointment and it will send a confirmation with QR code. You will be able to change date and times as necessary. Make sure you choose the right test
The site will also show you turn around times ( to keep notice for flight requirements i.e. 72 hrs) and you can download the app for quick access to the results. I just did it for travel mid July to France and had no problems...I now have an appointment scheduled in a drive thru Walmart pharmacy (quest lab)and my insurance is paying even though I do not have active symptoms of infection. My PCR results will be ready within 24hrs but I scheduled 48 hrs out just to be sure.

This is not an endorsement but I hope this helps alleviate some anxiety

In Post #38 I included official links to PCR testing sites for Spain and France

I am still of the mind that those os us who havereceived a Vaccination approved by WHO will ”NOT NEED A PCR test. We shall see!
 
I am still of the mind that those os us who havereceived a Vaccination approved by WHO will ”NOT NEED A PCR test. We shall see!
I hope so 😃 And we are of the same mind. I am vaccinated. But just in case I booked the appointment. I can always cancel it if the requirements changes. I am Not leaving until after mid July but a thought crossed my mind that more people might be traveling so I wanted to make sure I have a reserved appointment and not a scramble at the last minute .
 
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I hope so 😃 And we are of the same mind. I am vaccinated. But just in case I booked the appointment. I can always cancel it if the requirements changes. I am Not leaving until after mid July but a thought crossed my mind that more people might be traveling so I wanted to make sure I have a reserved appointment and not a scramble at the last minute .

Wise! I am actually surprised that the insurance company will pay for it?
 
I am still of the mind that those os us who havereceived a Vaccination approved by WHO will ”NOT NEED A PCR test. We shall see!
The question is, can countries make rules and the change the rules at any time?
 
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Wise! I am actually surprised that the insurance company will pay for it?
Me too..I was shocked! I was a bit curious so I only planned to see if I qualified. The site gave a series of questions about the type of test required and whether I had an active infection to see I qualified for the program. The person will have the ability to know if there is a cost before creating an account with quest and entering insurance data and applying for an appointment.
 
The question is, can countries make rules and the change the rules at any time?
This is always a first thought as I plan for mitigation in any circumstance. Nothing is ever for sure so we do our best with the information we have from official sources. We can never control how government will make/change rules all we can do is hope first then plan, adapt, replan, mitigate and eventually we can overcome the obstacle 🙂
 
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The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
Please clarify: When does the "72 hours" clock start ticking? Actual time of testing? Or something else?
 
Please clarify: When does the "72 hours" clock start ticking? Actual time of testing? Or something else?
I believe it is 72hrs before the flight ..but I would check with country‘s official site and or airlines
see this news article from a popular travel writer ;



UPDATED: found a better link :

From Embassy Spain :
Is a negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) required for entry? Yes

  • U. S. citizens travelling from the United States or certain other countries will need to show a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. The negative test result should be in Spanish or English and should be presented in original paper or electronic record, containing the name of the traveler, passport or national ID number, date of the test, and name and contact information of testing center.  Complete information can be found here. (This site is spanish, open in Chrome for translation)
From Embassy France

https://franceintheus.org/spip.php?article10311
Foreign citizens will be able to travel to France depending on their vaccination status and the health situation of their country.
Starting June 9, 2021, foreign citizens can travel to France depending on their vaccination status and the health situation of their country.
If you plan to travel to France from the United States (classified in “orange” on the basis of health indicators on June 2, 2021), you must follow the following instructions:
  • If you are fully vaccinated:
    • you will present proof of your vaccination,
    • and the results of a negative PCR or antigen test of less than 72 hours upon boarding,
In this case, you will not have to quarantine on arrival.
  • If you have not been vaccinated and you are not a French citizen :
  • to travel to France, you must have a compelling reason requiring your trip (corresponding to the compelling reasons of countries classified as "orange" - reasons listed in the table below)
    • and present negative results of a PCR test of less than 72 hours or negative antigen of less than 48 hours on boarding
    • and complete a 7-day quarantine upon arrival in France.
traveling-table-b-f69fe.jpg
 
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Is it actual elapsed hours, ignoring time zones? Or 72 hours by the clock ignoring time differences? Will they know that some places don't observe daylight savings time? :oops:
 
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Is it actual elapsed hours, ignoring time zones? Or 72 hours by the clock ignoring time differences? Will they know that some places don't observe daylight savings time? :oops:
I counted 72hrs back from the in country arrival time including the +1 day time change when I made my appointment
 
So if I book a PCR test for August 14th, expect results afternoon of the 15th. Fly out of Vancouver late afternoon on the 15th.. By the time I land in France it is late evening of the 16th I should be safe.
My head hurts.....
 
So if I book a PCR test for August 14th, expect results afternoon of the 15th. Fly out of Vancouver late afternoon on the 15th.. By the time I land in France it is late evening of the 16th I should be safe.
My head hurts.....
I just updated the links above Post#72 direct from the embassy websites of France and Spain

Basically ..... within 72 hours of your arrival. (I hope No confusion 😁 sorry ) ...use your arrival to be safe then count back 72hrs
 
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Just a FYI Notice to the wording. It is slightly different with France and Spain ...

Post #72 shows it clearly (ast least as of today 😁)

France says PCR less than 72 hrs prior to boarding the airplane..or antigen 48hrs

Spain says 72hrs before arrival...

This is why I do directly to each official site ..(links included for future updates). I try not to make any assumptions And I know if I was confused others would be also.
 
Hello to all. Do any of you there in Spain know whether in fact travelers from the US who are fully vaccinated will be allowed to fly in starting June 7? If so will prior 72 hour 🦠 PCR be required? I read conflicting information last night, saying no, and freaked a little. I got a flight for June 9 booked to do a “ snack” Camino & Oseira monastery retreat. Thought? Facts? Gracias!
Aymarah
Hello,
We just did the short Camino Frances last week. Contrary to every article that makes it sound like you must be vaccinated to get into Madrid, that has not been the case for us. I got in with just a negative PCR test. It was mostly the airlines that checked for this. I was a little surprised at the lack of concern by Spanish customs when we arrived given everything we see in the news. I think you will be fine getting here on the 9th. The Spanish are eager for their businesses to be open again and are quite welcoming.
 
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the official channels look confusing ( https://thepointsguy.com/news/spain...-from-some-nations-but-it-doesnt-apply-to-us/ ) it would be very sad for our camino and a complete waste of time if we are turned back when we get to Madrid. If after june 7, things are still unclear, i am pretty sure, a lot of Americans might be discouraged in booking a trip to Spain this summer. I know I'll be one of them.
I agree with you on the confusion. There is much anxiety and anticipation.
As for Spain the official site says US travelers are not being accepted currently.
the discussion above in the last few post was about COVID testing once allowed entry. That is not to say Spain is allowing US travelers now. The official word on the embassy site says “No” .

https://es.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/ was UPDATED June 2, 2021
the entry requirements said US travelers are currently not allowed entry but as with all things we wait for the next update which will hopefully come June 7th. I think if COVID taught me one thing it is “patience”. It also taught me stay behind my wonder woman no so invisible shield and of course wash my hands more often 😀. Although I wish I had her invisible jet about now ...😉😊. Wish you all wonderful travels ....eventually and Buen camino when it comes !
 
It is now official: As of Monday 7 June 2021, people who are vaccinated can fly from airports in the USA to airports in Spain and will be allowed to enter Spain. Quote from my post in the Lockdowns and Reopenings thread:

k) Personas provistas de un certificado de vacunación que el Ministerio de Sanidad reconozca con este fin, previa comprobación por las autoridades sanitarias, así como los menores acompañantes a los que el Ministerio de Sanidad extienda los efectos.
This means in particular and in the given context: As of Monday 7 June 2021, persons who travel to Spain from non-EU countries such as the USA, Canada or Mexico, to name but a few, and who are in possession of a vaccination certificate recognised by the Spanish Ministry of Health for this purpose are allowed to enter Spain at Spanish airports. This concerns not only essential travel but also business and leisure travel. There will be controls.​

Read new decree Orden INT/552/2021 in connection with old decree Orden INT/657/2020 if you are interested.

The relevant websites of the Spanish government have not yet been properly updated so I'd suggest to wait before drawing far-reaching conclusions about implications in greater detail.
 
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And there is more: a Resolución de 4 de junio de 2021, de la Dirección General de Salud Pública, relativa a los controles sanitarios a realizar en los puntos de entrada de España.

These are nine densely printed pages in Spanish, published by the Spanish national health authorities, with details about the new rules for international travellers at their point of entry, such as when you have stepped of the airplane and have reached border control in an airport in Spain.

 
And there is more: a Resolución de 4 de junio de 2021, de la Dirección General de Salud Pública, relativa a los controles sanitarios a realizar en los puntos de entrada de España.

These are nine densely printed pages in Spanish, published by the Spanish national health authorities, with details about the new rules for international travellers at their point of entry, such as when you have stepped of the airplane and have reached border control in an airport in Spain.

An article here :


Suggests that :

La nueva normativa será aplicable a partir del lunes 7 de junio y, la gran novedad, es que ya no será necesaria como única condición presentar una PCR negativa.

Los trámites se agilizan y estas son las opciones:

- Una PCR negativa

- Un test de antígenos o test rápido

- Un certificado de vacunación completo con las pautas marcadas por el EMA.

- Acreditar que se ha pasado la Covid-19 en los últimos seis meses.

---

So negative PCR, negative antigen, vaccination certificate, or certification of having recovered from Covid19.
 
Un test de antígenos o test rápido
My very quick reading of the text published by the Spanish health authorities tells me that there are conditions for a rapid antigen test to be admissible and one of them is that the test has to be on the list published by the European Commission and that means that it has to carry a CE marking and needs to have been validated by at least one EU country. Probably not the case for many rapid antigen tests available world-wide. Not an information that is important for readers in the EU, of course, because all the available antigen tests in the EU will carry a CE marking and will be authorised by at least one EU country.

News media often omit information that is not important to their readers but important to outsiders.
 
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News media often omit information that is not important to their readers but important to outsiders.
About admissible antigen tests: So go only by what you read, and understand, on official Spanish government websites. Or what your airline wants to see at the gate before boarding. Once you are on Spanish soil, as a tourist, you are unlikely to be sent back. Although the Spanish authorities have sent back dozens of UK tourists occasionally in recent weeks but not routinely. The worst case scenario is probably that you will have to pay for an expensive additional test. Only important if you are budget-conscious.

You read this on social media. Don't take my word for it. 😐
 
The SPTH form that you have to fill in before your flight, and the data that you enter there, especially when you don't have a Certificado COVID Digital de la UE (EU Digital Covid certificate), and the QR code that will be generated in the process, becomes even more important than it has been already. You will have to show this SPTH QR code before boarding in your departure country and at border control in the Spanish airport where you arrive.

Examples:
  • When you travel from the USA (or Canada), you will get a SPTH QR code that they call DOCUMENTAL CONTROL.

  • When you travel from the UK (or Australia or New Zealand), you will get a SPTH QR code that they call FAST CONTROL.

  • Owners of an EU Digital Covid certificate will also receive a SPTH QR code labelled FAST CONTROL.
Accordingly, there will be different lanes at international Spanish airport for Fast Control and Documental Control.

See https://www.boe.es/boe/dias/2021/06/05/pdfs/BOE-A-2021-9352.pdf
 
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I'm sure it is miserable for those hoping to start walking soon but I can't help but be amused by the date in the title. We are now only two days away and still getting clarification. I suspect it is like most times on the camino - what will happen on 7th June we will know on 7th June! Bon courage mes amis.
 
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The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
We are now only two days away and still getting clarification.
Shouldn't this read: We are now only two days away and already getting clarification?

The Spanish government didn't have their new rules ready for publication until this morning ... 41 hours before they go live. Perhaps not surprising as it is quite a change. And they jumped the queue a bit ... maybe they are more in a hurry to attract international leisure travellers than their fellow EU countries.
 
Spain says 72hrs before arrival...
Hm ... make sure to know what it says about the timeframe for the test, and the type of test required by Spain, for flights as of 7 June 2021 ... In any case, the new rules state clearly that the documentation must include the date when the test sample was taken.

See Séptimo. Certificado de Diagnóstico in https://www.boe.es/boe/dias/2021/06/05/pdfs/BOE-A-2021-9352.pdf and no doubt soon on the SPTH website.
 
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There is now also a general rule for land border crossing. A proof of either vaccination, test or recovery from illness are required when you cross on land from a risk country or a risk area into Spain. The list of what is defined as a risk area or a risk country is published every week on https://www.spth.gob.es. Obviously, only Portugal and France, or areas within these two countries, can be on that list as no other country has a land border with Spain (yes, there's Andorra).
 
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I'm sure it is miserable for those hoping to start walking soon but I can't help but be amused by the date in the title. We are now only two days away and still getting clarification. I suspect it is like most times on the camino - what will happen on 7th June we will know on 7th June! Bon courage met amis.
Supposedly the rules will be reviewed every 15 days. So I would say “still”
About admissible antigen tests: So go only by what you read, and understand, on official Spanish government websites. Or what your airline wants to see at the gate before boarding. Once you are on Spanish soil, as a tourist, you are unlikely to be sent back. Although the Spanish authorities have sent back dozens of UK tourists occasionally in recent weeks but not routinely. The worst case scenario is probably that you will have to pay for an expensive additional test. Only important if you are budget-conscious.

You read this on social media. Don't take my word for it. 😐
According to this list...I can not find a recognized antigen test by the EU in the USA.

another bureaucratic snag....
I suppose there may be some quick antigen test out there, that Spain bureaucrats will approve 🙄
 
According to this list...I can not find a recognized antigen test by the EU in the USA.
https://ec.europa.eu/health/sites/d...response/docs/covid-19_rat_common-list_en.pdf
That's the list that I found, too. However, those who are vaccinated and have appropriate proof do no longer need to take a test prior to their flight to Spain. This will be made clearer no doubt soon on the various information channels but such is my reading of the text:

Quinto. Países de riesgo y requisitos de entrada. Certificaciones.
Passengers coming from [the USA] must have one of the following ["alguno de los siguientes requisitos sanitarios"]:
a) certificado de vacunación
b) certificado de diagnóstico
c) certificado de recuperación
I am, however, not a legal expert and my knowledge of Spanish has its limits. My personal point of view: People who are vaccinated have advantages. Not only when flying to Spain. As to the "bureaucrats": As a consumer, I'm quite happy with EU market regulations concerning medicinal products and the CE mark. 😎
 
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The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
As to the antigen tests, and while I am neither a legal expert nor a public health expert, I'd say forget about antigen tests if you want to fly from the USA to Spain and you are not vaccinated.

And if you want to travel from inside the EU to Spain and you are not vaccinated, you can probably use any antigen test that is on the market in your country but not a self-test.

If you are vaccinated, you don't need a PCR test or an antigen test to travel to Spain.

The list of authorised antigen tests is published and updated under this link to the European Commission's webpages: The updated common list of Rapid Antigen Tests is available.

Spain requires the use of antigen tests on this list for you to qualify for entry into Spain. See new Spanish Health Department rules, p. 68746 in the Spanish State Gazette BOE.
 
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France has published their Strategy of Reopening the Borders from 9 June 2021. The way to SJPP and the route Napoleon is now wide open for duly vaccinated pilgrims from the USA and from much of the rest of the world.

The USA is currently coloured orange. Under the condition that you are vaccinated (only EMA approved vaccines count), flying from an orange country to France means:
  • you don't need to justify and document an urgent reason for being allowed to travel to France;
  • you must have a negative PCR test < 72 h or negative antigen test < 48 h (despite being vaccinated);
  • no test is required after your arrival in France;
  • no quarantine after arrival.
I've not seen the finer legal text that goes with it, so it's not clear what kind of antigen tests are accepted by France. My hunch is: the same requirements as those set by Spain.

See Strategy of Reopening French Borders from 9 June 2021.
 
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Shouldn't this read: We are now only two days away and already getting clarification?

Supposedly the rules will be reviewed every 15 days. So I would say “still”
I would say still or just now getting clarification, not already. Already implies that something, in this case the clarification came sooner than expected. For example "the tickets go on sale on Monday, and there was already a queue to buy them on Friday."
As opposed to "the tickets go on sale on Monday, but they are still (or just now) being printed.

Semantics aside, it's great news that fully vaccinated people won't need to take a Covid test.
 
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