Austria allowed entry to Russians on PCR tests for COVID

The entry of tourists to Austria, including from Russia, is now possible upon presentation of a negative PCR test for coronavirus. This decision was made by the Austrian authorities as part of the easing of the restrictions in force in the country, follows from a message on the website of the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs and Health.

From January 24 to February 22, Austria for tourists from all countries was subject to the “2P” rule (that is, vaccinated with a vaccine approved in the European Union or had been ill), and a negative test for coronavirus was also required. The Russians could confirm the disease they had suffered within six months prior to entry with a certificate from the public services website in English, as well as observe mandatory quarantine until a second negative test (after 5 days).

However, now a negative COVID test taken no more than 48 hours before entering the country (the so-called “3P” rule) is also accepted as a reason for entry. Russian vaccines, including Sputnik V, were not included in this list.

Now, an exception to this rule applies only to countries from a special list with especially dangerous variants of the virus, but since January 24, there has not been a single country on this list.

The fact that Russians will be able to enter the country on the basis of a negative test for coronavirus was also previously reported to TASS by the Ministry of Tourism of the country. The Austrian Ministry of Health also confirmed to the agency that the entry of Russians will be allowed according to PCR tests and antigen tests.