After almost two years of pandemic-related travel restrictions, Norway’s border is now open as it was before the pandemic began. Most restrictions within the country have also been lifted.
The Norwegian prime minister Jonas Gahr Støre announced today that with immediate effect, there are no longer any requirements for vaccination certificates or testing when entering the country. Previous requirements to fill out a digital registration form prior to arrival have also been removed.
The rule change means that if you had the right to enter Norway before the pandemic, you can now freely enter the country once again.
However, travelers should be aware that most airlines still require the use of face masks onboard. The testing requirements for traveling to Svalbard also remain in place for the time being.
Omicron dominance lightens the load on hospitals
The changes come as the rapid spread of the Omicron variant of Covid-19 continues across Norway. However, as the variant still appears to be far less dangerous than previous variants, Norway’s healthcare system is no longer under pressure.
“We can ease the measures because omicron does not cause as serious a disease as previous variants. Even though the infection is rising, the proportion who end up in hospital is low. We are well protected with the vaccine,” said Støre.
Everyday life back to normal in Norway
While the removal of travel restrictions will delight tourists hoping to visit Norway this spring and summer, it’s the removal of everyday restrictions that is being celebrated within Norway. The change follows similar moves by Scandinavian neighbours Denmark and Sweden in recent days.
Among other things, Norwegians will no longer be required to wear face masks or conform to social distancing requirements in public places. “The one metre rule has prevented us from living normally together as human beings,” said Støre.
Changes have also been made to testing and isolation procedures, with those testing positive now just recommended to stay at home for four days. This recommendation will be continuously assessed and is expected to be updated within the next few weeks.
