If you’re hoping to visit the Caribbean islands of St. Kitts and Nevis, there’s now one overarching entry requirement: be fully vaccinated. The twin islands will now welcome only vaccinated travelers going forward, introducing one of the strictest vaccination-related travel protocols due to COVID-19. According to the St. Kitts Tourism Authority, all foreign tourists—including those from the United States—must wait at least two weeks after their final dose of either two-dose or single-dose vaccine before coming to the islands. In addition to proof of vaccination, travelers must still submit a negative COVID-19 PCR test from an approved lab taken within 72 hours before traveling. However, unvaccinated children under 18 who are traveling with fully vaccinated parents or guardians are exempt from the requirement.
Vacationing in Place at a Travel Approved Hotel
Approved hotels in Nevis include The Four Seasons Nevis. Image courtesy property.
St. Kitts and Nevis join destinations welcoming vaccinated tourists throughout the world, including several in the Caribbean like Belize and the Bahamas.
As of May 29, only fully-vaccinated travelers (having received their shots at least two weeks from their travel) will be allowed to clear customs. Aside from uploading a vaccination card, rapid tests will not be accepted. Tourists must book a stay at one of several “Travel Approved” hotels, and “Vacation in Place,” aka remain on-grounds for at least a week. While at the hotel, tourists can move freely throughout the property and use all the amenities, according to the St. Kitts tourism authority.
Those who stay for more than a week—at day 9— will then have to take a second PCR test. Travelers who want to stay at a private rental home or condo will have to obtain pre-approval from the government. Although, it is important to note another new restriction: an island-wide curfew from 11 pm – 5 am.
Like Belize, St. Kitts & Nevis Reopened Tourism in October 2020
In October, St. Kitts and Nevis became one of the last Caribbean destinations to welcome international tourists after shutting down due to the coronavirus pandemic. In total, 52.5% of residents have received at least one vaccine shot and 14.5% are fully vaccinated, according to Reuters, which is tracking vaccines around the globe.
Throughout the pandemic, the islands have seen 74 infections and no coronavirus-related deaths.
Like Belize, St. Kitts and Nevis are currently listed as a “Level 2” country by the U.S. State Department, recommending travelers exercise increased caution. The twin islands hold a “Level 1” country by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, indicating a “low level” of COVID-19.
Header image of St. Kitts & Nevis courtesy Lonely Planet
