Cayman Islands drops Covid entry rules

Barbados also eases entry requirements for international visitors

Previously, vaccinated travellers were required to apply for a travel certificate at least 72 hours prior to departing for the Cayman Islands, as well as show proof they have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Unvaccinated travellers, aged 12 and over, who did not have "close ties" to the Cayman Islands weren't permitted entry, and those with close ties had to quarantine for seven days.

Those with close ties to the Cayman Islands are defined as those who own local properties or businesses on the islands, or are a spouse, civil partner, parent, step-parent, child, grandchild, step-child, or grandparent of a Caymanian or resident.

Since 24 August 2022, all Covid entry rules have been dropped, and all travellers can enter the Cayman Islands without showing proof of vaccination, taking tests or filling in forms.

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The Visit Cayman Islands website has been updated to reflect the changes. It now reads: 'Effective August 24, 2022, all travellers – vaccinated and unvaccinated – are permitted to enter the Cayman Islands without the need of any additional documents or health-related steps due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Travellers are not required to apply for a travel declaration or travel request, present a negative Covid-19 test, show proof of vaccination, wear masks.'

Minister for tourism and transport Kenneth Bryan welcomed the news, and said: “Today is a great day in Cayman. The new regulations are in keeping with the current global environment, and I am in full support of and welcome the removal of travel restrictions.

Director of tourism for the Cayman Islands Rosa Harris said: “We are ready to open our doors to everyone who wishes to visit us and believe that the future of Cayman tourism is strong.”

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Barbados
Barbados has also dropped its requirement for unvaccinated travellers to take a test or quarantine on arrival. Travellers can now enter by showing proof of a negative PCR or antigen test taken between one and three days prior to arrival.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office website states: 'From August 20, unvaccinated arrivals are no longer required to quarantine or take a test on arrival. Once you have completed a health check and your documentation (pre-arrival test) has been validated, you will be free to move around Barbados unhindered.”