In his announcement on Monday, February 21, Boris Johnson unveiled the new strategy for living with Covid in England, which includes the eventual elimination of the NHS Covid Pass. Starting April 1, the government will no longer recommend providing Covid-status certification in domestic settings like nightclubs.
The introduction of mandatory Covid vaccine passes for certain events in England was implemented as part of “Plan B” on December 8, 2021, due to the spread of the omicron variant. From December 15 onwards, the NHS Covid Pass on the NHS App became a requirement for entry into nightclubs and venues with large crowds. These smartphone passes, which indicate whether a person has been vaccinated or has recently tested negative, had already been used for entry into large events and for international travel. The mandatory use of these passes was approved by MPs with a majority vote of 369 to 126.
While the NHS Covid Pass remains in use in the UK, here is everything you need to know about downloading and using it.
What is the NHS Covid Pass?
The NHS Covid Pass, or vaccine passport, allows individuals who have been vaccinated to easily travel or access large events. Some countries require proof of vaccination or a recent negative test for entry. The NHS app enables those who have received a third dose or booster to demonstrate their Covid status, with countries such as Israel, Austria, and Croatia requiring visitors to have received a dose within a specific time period. In the UK, you can also obtain a domestic Covid pass by taking a test or if you have had coronavirus within the last 180 days. The UK’s Covid vaccine pass is part of the official NHS app, separate from the NHS Covid-19 contact tracing app. It can also be stored in Apple or Google Wallet.
How do I download the NHS app?
To download the NHS app, simply search for “NHS App” in your App Store (for iPhone) or the Google Play Store (for Android). The app is compatible with most Android smartphones using version 5.0 or higher.
What do I need for a Covid pass?
To obtain a complete Covid pass, the following Covid tests or vaccines are accepted:
– Two doses of the Moderna, AstraZeneca, or Pfizer vaccine, or one dose of the Janssen vaccine in England. The vaccines must be in use in the UK, and the pass will be available after your final dose.
– A positive PCR test within the last six months, valid for 180 days after completing self-isolation.
– For domestic events, a negative PCR or lateral flow test within 48 hours. This can be activated as soon as you complete the test and needs to be registered online using the Register My Test Result service. The response may take up to two hours.
What about booster jabs?
The NHS app can also demonstrate proof of a booster or third dose for travel abroad, automatically showing up if a vaccine record has been entered.
How does the app work?
The NHS app allows individuals to register their details, including their name, postcode, and NHS number, to link with their health record. Once logged into the app, users can view their vaccination record and other medical information such as allergies and appointment records. To find your vaccination status, click on the “your health” tab or select the “get your NHS Covid pass” service. A digital barcode will be presented, which can be used for confirmation at events or when traveling. The barcode can be downloaded as a PDF or sent to your email address. It can also be added to Apple or Google Wallet by selecting the Covid pass and clicking “Add to Apple Wallet” or “Google – save to phone.”
Where is the Covid pass required?
Covid passes are required for entry into nightclubs, unseated indoor events with 500 or more attendees, unseated outdoor events with 4,000 or more attendees, and any event with 10,000 or more attendees. The use of Covid passes in other settings such as pubs and offices has not yet been advised by the government due to concerns about discrimination and the impact on privacy and individual freedoms.
What are the new rules in Scotland?
Nicola Sturgeon announced that the Covid pass scheme will end in Scotland on Monday. The current threat level of the coronavirus is considered “medium,” but it is expected to be reassessed as “low” as part of a new framework.
Are NHS vaccine passports accepted abroad?
Many countries, including the United States, European Union countries, Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, and Israel, accept the NHS Covid pass for travel. It is recognized in over 80 countries worldwide. Check the entry requirements of individual countries on the government website for the latest information.
How much personal data is shared with the app?
Using the NHS app requires some personal data, including your name, phone number, postcode (not exact location), and email address. Additional features like facial recognition for logging into the app can be enabled.
Can I turn off location tracking?
The app does not track your exact location. It only displays a form confirming your vaccine status. The current NHS app does use location services data.
What if I don’t have a smartphone?
If you don’t have a smartphone, you can request the government to send you a letter with your vaccine status. Contact the NHS at 119, and they can send you an official note, which may take at least five working days.
What about children?
Individuals under 18 are generally not required to show their Covid status. However, the NHS Covid Pass was rolled out to 12- to 15-year-olds for travel purposes on Monday, December 13. Previously, it was only available to those aged 16 and above.
How do vaccine passports work in other countries?
Israel has implemented a Green Pass system, allowing vaccinated citizens, recent recoveries, or individuals with a recent negative test to gather in venues like gyms and hotels. They can use this pass to access places that had been closed for months, including theaters and nightclubs.
Can I get an NHS Covid Pass if I have been vaccinated abroad?
UK residents vaccinated abroad can use the NHS Covid Pass if they have received two doses of an approved vaccine, which currently include AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Janssen, and Moderna. These individuals can also book a booster jab. The app has been updated to address the issue where vaccines administered abroad or at overseas vaccine centers did not work for some users.
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