The Estonian Government decided to shorten the duration of the COVID-19 vaccination certificate to 9 months. The order comes into force from the 1st of February 2022. At the same time, this 9-month vaccination certificate is valid all over the EU. After the booster dose, the duration is extended to one year, but in EU, the discussions of finding a collective solution will continue.
The changes were made after ECDC made a recommendation to vaccinate people with a booster doses 6 months at the latest after finishing the preliminary vaccination course. After that, the certificate is valid for another 3 months to enable enough time for the booster dose. The change is related to the efficacy of the vaccines against new variants, and directs people to have a booster dose, and therefore a very good protection against the Omicron variant.
To have a valid certificate, the last dose of the vaccination course can't be more than 270 days away. The duration of a booster dose is one year in Estonia with the current regulations. Read more about the vaccination course HERE.
In December, it was decided in the EU that a common vaccination certificate will be created. That will simplify the travelling while controlling the spread of the coronavirus. The 270- day duration time is in force after finishing the preliminary vaccination course. The duration of a booster dose vaccination certificate is not agreed yet.
In Estonia, the COVID-19 vaccination certificate enables access to cultural, sport and entertainment activities, also eating out, and other organized events. Vaccination certificate enables convenient travels. At the same time, if you have been a close contact, it's still recommended to stay in self-isolation and notice any changes in your health.
The source: The Government Communication Office
