Health security at Finland’s borders: Arrival from low-risk countries permitted without certificate or test

On 22 July, the Government approved amendments to the decree aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19 infections to Finland from abroad. People arriving in Finland are required to show proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 or of recovery from COVID-19 within the past six months. Those who show proof of one of the above will not be subject to other health security obligations upon arrival in Finland.

The obligation to show proof full vaccination or be tested for COVID-19 does not apply to people arriving in Finland from countries or regions where the incidence of COVID-19 or the prevalence of virus variants does not pose a particular risk. People arriving from the following countries and regions may enter Finland without a COVID-19 vaccination certificate: Australia, Hong Kong, Iceland, Israel, China, Macao, Poland, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Taiwan, New Zealand and the Vatican, and the Norwegian municipalities of Storfjord, Kåfjord, Nordreisa, Kautokeino, Karasjok, Tana, Nesseby and Sør-Varanger. The decree will enter into force on 26 July 2021. 

All other persons must show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken before entering the country or proof of a first dose of COVID-19 vaccine received at least 14 days prior to entry. In both of these cases, the person must also take a COVID-19 test 3–5 days after arriving in the country. They must avoid contact with others and remain at home or in their place of accommodation until they receive confirmation of a negative test result.

If a person arriving in Finland does not have proof of full vaccination against COVID-19, recovery from COVID-19, a negative test result or a first dose of COVID-19 vaccine received at least 14 days prior to arrival in Finland, they must be tested for COVID-19 as soon as they arrive in Finland and a second time 3–5 days after arrival.

The obligation to be tested for COVID-19 applies to people over 16 years of age. The amended Act also specifies exceptional categories of people who are not subject to this obligation. 

Under the Communicable Diseases Act, neglecting to undergo the required COVID-19 tests is a punishable offence.

Inquiries:

Taneli Puumalainen, Director General, [email protected]
Mirka-Tuulia Kuoksa, Legal Adviser, [email protected]