COVID-19 vaccination certificates for people aged under 18 no longer subject to time limit after primary vaccination series when used for travel

Notice Written on 31.3.2022

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In future, EU COVID-19 vaccination certificates used for travel purposes will remain valid until further notice for those under the age of 18 who have completed the full primary vaccination series (usually two doses). COVID-19 vaccination certificates for adults expire when 270 days, i.e. about nine months, have passed from the last dose of the primary vaccination series. As of yet, no acceptance period applies to certificates issued following the administration of booster doses.

The European Commission made the amendment concerning people under 18 years of age by issuing a regulation to this end. The regulation will enter into force on March 31 2022. To allow for sufficient time for the technical implementation of the regulation, the amendment will not enter fully into force in the Member States until after 6 April.


The EU Digital COVID Certificate may be required when travelling within the EU. Countries may have different practices and rules for COVID-19 certificates that people need to follow when crossing borders. Before travelling, you should check the COVID-19 situation and the rules for COVID-19 certificates in your destination and, before returning home, you should check the situation in Finland and take care to follow the latest guidelines. The Re-open EU website(opens new window) compiles information on travel instructions and restrictions in place in the EU Member States. Each Member State defines in its own legislation how COVID-19 certificates are used nationally.

Further information