Croatia has been promoted to the green watchlist, from amber, in the Government’s latest update to its traffic light categories for foreign travel – meaning travel to its popular Adriatic resorts can go ahead restriction-free.
From 4am on July 19, those arriving in the UK from Croatia will no longer need to self-isolate, but will still have to abide by green-list rules including testing before their return to the UK and on day two back at home.
However, while the Government does not advise against holidays to the green list, the UK Foreign Office (FCDO) still advises against travel to Croatia, despite lifting its restrictions for other European countries, including Spain, which is still on the amber list.
What’s more, the green watchlist comes with a word of warning – these destinations are “most at risk” of being downgraded to amber at short notice, leaving holidays in a state of limbo.
Here, we answer all the key questions regarding holidays in Croatia.
Am I allowed to travel to Croatia?
Restrictions on outbound travel were lifted on May 17 and replaced with a traffic light system for inbound travellers.
Croatia is welcoming UK travellers for specific purposes, including tourism. Britons travelling to Croatia must meet one of the following criteria for entry:
- A negative PCR (taken within 72 hours before arrival at the border) or antigen test (taken within 48 hours of arrival).
- A vaccination certificate showing the final dose taken more than 14 days ago
- Proof of recovery from Covid more than 11 days and less than 180 days ago
The entry criteria is complex so please check with the Foreign Office website.
Travel is permitted within defined purposes, including, but not limited to, residence, business and tourism. In addition to evidence of your negative Covid-19 status, those travelling under the tourism exemption are required to hold a valid accommodation booking or proof of property ownership in Croatia.
What are Covid restrictions like in Croatia?
Bars, nightclubs and restaurants are open, as are shops, and there are no restrictions on regional travel within Croatia.
It is mandatory for passengers to wear masks on public transport, taxis and in shops and other commercial premises.
Do I need to quarantine on my return home from Croatia?
From July 19 Croatia will be on the green watchlist, meaning any requirement to quarantine will be dropped. However, people coming from green list countries still have to provide a negative Covid test within 72 hours of departure and then pay for a PCR test on or before their second day back in the UK.
Am I still covered by travel insurance?
If you need to travel to Croatia there are a small number of providers willing to offer cover against Foreign Office advice.
Are flights to Croatia operating?
Direct flights between the UK and Zagreb are running. Flights to the likes of Split, Dubrovnik and Pula have also resumed.