The Bermuda Tourism Authority welcomed the first significant loosening of COVID-19 border protocols since the island reopened in July 2020.
The Bermuda Government announced that they would be changing the pre-arrival test requirement to accept antigen tests effective November 29, 2021.
The rapid test result turn-around time, accuracy, and widespread availability of antigen tests will make the pre-arrival process significantly less burdensome for prospective travellers.
The Minister of Health Kim Wilson indicated that Ministry officials were also reviewing protocols for on-island traveller follow up testing.
Charles H. Jeffers II said, “The shift in protocols is encouraging news for the local industry, and the introduction of the antigen testing reflects a change that we have advocated for on behalf of our stakeholders. With increased vaccination uptake in key markets, vacation-starved travellers have been shopping for their next destination.
This move by the government puts us in a stronger market position as we compete with rival destinations touting less stringent travel requirements. To ensure that we remain a viable and attractive destination for our cruise and airline partners, we must demonstrate that our health and safety protocols meet consumer demand for a safe, streamlined travel experience from beginning to end.“
Vaccinated visitors to Bermuda represent less than one percent of those testing positive whilst on island (on arrival or post-arrival). These numbers show that vaccinated travellers pose a shallow risk to the island’s COVID situation. Today’s policy changes reflect the reduced likelihood of transmission from that category and provide a safe, convenient accessible option for visitors.
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