Finland reinstates internal border control

Finland has re-introduced internal border control on Tuesday afternoon against the backdrop of worsening coronavirus situation in the country and abroad, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of the Interior.

The authorities also brought other changes to the restrictions on entry and same restrictions started to apply to everyone arriving in Finland from abroad.

The restrictions entered into force at 3:00 pm and will continue until 16 January 2022.

Internal border control reinstated for traffic between Finland and all Schengen countries. In addition, entry restrictions and health security measures tightened so that from Tuesday all passengers arriving in Finland from abroad will be required to present proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 or proof of recovery from COVID-19 within the past six months, along with a certificate of a negative COVID-19 test taken less than 48 hours prior to arrival.

Until 31 December 2021 this requirement will apply to those born in 2005 or earlier, and as of 1 January 2022, to those born in 2006 or earlier.

As an exception to the above, residents of border communities at Finland’s land border with Sweden and Norway as well as persons travelling between the Swedish municipality of Norrtälje and the province of Åland may enter Finland if they have proof of full vaccination with an approved COVID-19 vaccine, proof of recovery from COVID-19 less than six months prior to entry, or a certificate of a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than seven days prior to entry.

A negative COVID-19 test result, however, will not be required from Finnish citizens, foreigners residing permanently in Finland, or persons who have an essential reason for entry, such as compelling family matters or another compelling personal reason.

However, all passengers are required to present certificates laid down in the Communicable Diseases Act and comply with the decisions made by the regional state administrative agencies on compulsory health examinations.

Finnish travellers should note that while they are allowed to enter Finland without a test, other countries and airlines may have their own testing requirements.