New Zealand is reopening its borders in five phases, welcoming visitors with visas until October 2022. The country has maintained one of the lowest death rates during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating its effective health measures. In 2019, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern introduced a welfare budget to support mental health, children, poverty reduction, and assistance for the Maori and Pacific populations.
Israel was the first country to vaccinate most of its population during the pandemic and has one of the lowest death rates. The country fully reopened to international travelers on March 1, 2022, regardless of vaccination status, but testing requirements remain in place.
Norway lifted all travel restrictions on February 12, 2022, including mandatory testing at borders and airports. Sweden ended its ban on entry from non-EU/EEA countries on April 1, 2022, allowing unrestricted travel for all, regardless of vaccination status. CNN Traveller reported that Sweden, among Nordic countries, recorded the highest number of COVID-19 deaths.
Luxembourg extended travel restrictions for third-country nationals until June 30, 2022, with exceptions for Ukrainian nationals. The country recognizes vaccination certificates from Benin and Jordan for entry purposes. Luxembourg’s small population benefits from a strong welfare system emphasizing work-life balance and care for pensioners.
The Netherlands lifted entry rules for travel restriction from the European Union/Schengen area. UNICEF found that Dutch children are among the happiest globally, often enjoying breakfast with their parents. Switzerland maintains travel restrictions but allows entry for fully vaccinated travelers and those recovered from COVID-19 within the last 180 days.
Iceland lifted all COVID-19 restrictions on February 25, 2022, supporting its economy with abundant natural resources. Despite the financial crisis, the 2007 Happiness Index showed that Icelanders felt supported in times of need. Danish authorities announced that travelers from third countries no longer need to comply with COVID-19 measures, allowing unrestricted entry. Copenhagen’s Institute of Happiness highlights Denmark’s focus on renewable energy and societal measures promoting longevity and happiness.
Finland has no travel restrictions for EU/Schengen Area travelers or those from countries on the EU safe travel list. Travelers from other countries must be vaccinated or present an EU COVID-19 digital certificate to enter Finland.
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