Vaccine passports during the COVID-19 pandemic#Canada

File:World map of share of people who received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine by country.png

Many governments, including Finland{{Cite news| vauthors = Mutanen A |title=Suomalaiset tutkijat kehittivät vasta-ainetestin, joka paljastaa, kuka on jo sairastanut koronaviruksen|language=fi|work=Helsingin Sanomat|url=https://www.hs.fi/tiede/art-2000006450798.html|access-date=1 May 2020}} and Germany,{{Cite news|last=Day|first=Joel|date=1 April 2020|title=Coronavirus breakthrough: Germany roll outs promising antibody test to end lockdown|work=Daily Express|url=https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1263131/coronavirus-europe-angela-merkel-germany-latest-antibody-test-nhs-news-vaccine|access-date=1 May 2020}} expressed early interest in the concept. Vaccine passports were seen as a potential way to permit a faster economic recovery from large-scale lockdowns that apply to all residents (especially within the travel and tourism industries), improve the confidence of patrons concerned for their health and safety, and to incentivize vaccination in order for a population to potentially reach "herd immunity".{{Cite web|title=Travelling this summer? You will likely need a vaccine passport|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/economy/2021/5/4/g-20-nations-set-to-back-covid-vaccine-passports|access-date=24 September 2021|publisher=Al Jazeera|language=en}}{{Cite web|last=Asi|first=Yara M.|date=13 March 2021|title=The pros and cons of vaccine passports|url=https://www.fastcompany.com/90614712/the-pros-and-cons-of-vaccine-passports|access-date=24 September 2021|website=Fast Company|language=en-US}}

In May 2020, Chile started issuing "release certificates" to patients who had recovered from COVID-19, but "the documents will not yet certify immunity".{{Cite news|date=29 April 2020|title=In reversal, Chile says coronavirus release certificates will not prove immunity|work=Reuters|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-chile/in-reversal-chile-says-coronavirus-release-certificates-will-not-prove-immunity-idUSKBN22B2ZY|access-date=1 May 2020}} Many governments including Finland, Germany, the United Kingdom,{{Cite news|date=3 April 2020|title=Britain looking at COVID-19 immunity certificates but more research needed|publisher=Channel NewsAsia|url=https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/coronavirus-covid-19-united-kingdom-immunity-certificate-12604182|access-date=1 May 2020|archive-date=4 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201004153050/https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/coronavirus-covid-19-united-kingdom-immunity-certificate-12604182|url-status=dead}} and the United States{{Cite news | vauthors = Lofgren K |date=10 April 2020|title=Anthony Fauci Says Government Is Discussing Immunity Cards For Coronavirus Survivors|work=Inquistr|url=https://www.inquisitr.com/5990370/coronavirus-id-fauci/|access-date=1 May 2020}} expressed interest in the concept.

The Royal Society published a report on 19 February 2021{{cite web |title=12 challenges for vaccine passports |url=https://royalsociety.org/news/2021/02/12-challenges-for-vaccine-passports/ |publisher=The Royal Society |access-date=22 August 2021 |date=19 February 2021 |quote=“International standardisation is one of the criteria we believe essential, but we have already seen some countries introducing vaccine certificates related to travel or linked to quarantine or attending events. We need a broader discussion about multiple aspects of a vaccine passport, from the science of immunity through to data privacy, technical challenges and the ethics and legality of how it might be used.” The report sets out 12 criteria that need to be satisfied in order to deliver a vaccine passport. A vaccine passport should: 1) Meet benchmarks for COVID-19 immunity 2) Accommodate differences between vaccines in their efficacy, and changes in vaccine efficacy against emerging variants 3) Be internationally standardised 4) Have verifiable credentials 5) Have defined uses 6) Be based on a platform of interoperable technologies 7) Be secure for personal data 8) Be portable 9) Be affordable to individuals and governments 10) Meet legal standards 11) Meet ethical standards 12) Have conditions of use that are understood and accepted by the passport holders}} where a lead author of the report, Professor Melinda Mills, Director of the Leverhulme Centre for Demographic Science at the University of Oxford said: “Understanding what a vaccine passport could be used for is a fundamental question – is it literally a passport to allow international travel or could it be used domestically to allow holders greater freedoms? The intended use will have significant implications across a wide range of legal and ethical issues that need to be fully explored and could inadvertently discriminate or exacerbate existing inequalities.” The report lists 12 essential criteria for an international standard.

On 12 March 2021, Ecma International announced its intention to create an international standard which prevents counterfeits and protects private data as much as possible in a "Call for Participation on Vaccine Passports International Standardization" {{cite web | url = https://www.ecma-international.org/news/ecma-tc51-committee-is-calling-for-participation-and-for-feedback-from-interested-stakeholders-on-the-development-of-a-vaccine-passport-international-standardization/ | title = Call for participation on vaccine passport international standardization | date = 12 April 2021 | work = Ecma International }} that referenced the earlier report from the UK's Royal Society. In August 2021, Ecma International announced revisions to Ecma-417 (Architectures for distributed real-time access systems) relevant to standards for vaccine passports.{{cite web | url = https://www.ecma-international.org/wp-content/uploads/ECMA-417.pdf | title = Standard on vaccine passport | date = 9 August 2021 | work = Ecma International }}

An early advocate of immunity passports during the COVID-19 pandemic was Sam Rainsy, the Cambodian opposition leader. In exile and under confinement in Paris, he proposed immunity passports as a way to help restart the economy in a series of articles which he began in March 2020 and published in The Geopolitics and The Brussels Times.{{cite news |work=The Geopolitics |url=https://thegeopolitics.com/how-to-prevent-covid-19-from-paralysing-the-worlds-economy/ |title=How to Prevent COVID-19 From Paralysing the World's Economy |date=27 March 2020 | vauthors = Rainsy S |access-date=26 February 2021 }}{{cite web | vauthors = Rainsy S |work=The Brussels Times |url=https://www.brusselstimes.com/opinion/105720/immunity-passports-a-proposal-to-revive-tourism-international-trade-and-transport-and-the-world-economy/ |title=Immunity Passports: A proposal to revive tourism, international trade and transport |date=12 April 2020 |access-date=26 February 2021 }}{{cite web |work=The Geopolitics |url= https://thegeopolitics.com/international-immunity-passports-can-help-restore-freedom-of-movement/ |title=International Immunity Passports Can Help Restore Freedom of Movement |date=8 April 2020 }} The proposals were also published in French.{{Cite web |language=fr |url=http://www.gavroche-thailande.com/actualites/ailleurs-en-asie/111853-cambodge-coronavirus-l-appel-de-sam-rainsy-pour-des-passeports-immunitaires-afin-de-combattre-l-epidemie-mondiale-de-covid-19 |title=CAMBODGE – CORONAVIRUS: L'appel de Sam Rainsy pour des passeports «immunitaires afin de combattre l'épidémie mondiale de Covid 19 |website=gavroche-thailande.com |access-date=3 October 2021 |archive-date=9 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709192248/http://www.gavroche-thailande.com/actualites/ailleurs-en-asie/111853-cambodge-coronavirus-l-appel-de-sam-rainsy-pour-des-passeports-immunitaires-afin-de-combattre-l-epidemie-mondiale-de-covid-19 |url-status=dead }} The idea became increasingly relevant as evidence of lasting acquired immunity became clear.{{Cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/17/health/coronavirus-immunity.html|title=Immunity to the Coronavirus May Last Years, New Data Hint | vauthors = Mandavilli A |date=17 November 2020|newspaper=The New York Times |access-date=26 February 2021 }}

Proponents of the idea such as Sam Rainsy, co-founder of the opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) have argued that immunity, whether acquired naturally or through vaccination, is a resource which needs to be used to limit the impact of the pandemic on the global economy.{{Cite web|date=18 May 2021|title=Opinion {{!}} Covid-19 recoveries: From immunity passport to health pass|url=https://www.brusselstimes.com/opinion/169895/covid-19-recoveries-from-immunity-passport-to-health-pass/|access-date=16 October 2021|website=The Brussels Times|language=en}} Many people in Cambodia depend entirely for their living on a tourism industry which has been wiped out. Poor countries can also benefit from recording immunological status as this will reduce wastage of scarce vaccines. The immunity passport proposed by Rainsy was effectively adopted in the EU under the name of "health pass".{{Cite web|url=https://thegeopolitics.com/immunity-passports-arrive-under-a-different-name/|title = Immunity Passports Arrive Under a Different Name|date = 21 May 2021}}

{{As of|2021|04|4|post=,}} it was not yet clear whether vaccinated people that remain asymptomatic are still contagious and are thus silent spreaders of the virus putting unvaccinated people at risk. "A lot of people are thinking that once they get vaccinated, they’re not going to have to wear masks anymore," said Michal Tal, an immunologist at Stanford University. "It’s really going to be critical for them to know if they have to keep wearing masks, because they could still be contagious."{{cite news | vauthors = Mandavilli A |title= Here's Why Vaccinated People Still Need to Wear a Mask |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/12/08/health/covid-vaccine-mask.html |access-date=4 April 2021 |work=The New York Times |date=8 December 2020 |quote=In most respiratory infections, including the new coronavirus, the nose is the main port of entry. The virus rapidly multiplies there, jolting the immune system to produce a type of antibodies that are specific to mucosa, the moist tissue lining the nose, mouth, lungs and stomach. If the same person is exposed to the virus a second time, those antibodies, as well as immune cells that remember the virus, rapidly shut down the virus in the nose before it gets a chance to take hold elsewhere in the body. The coronavirus vaccines, in contrast, are injected deep into the muscles and stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies. This appears to be enough protection to keep the vaccinated person from getting ill. Some of those antibodies will circulate in the blood to the nasal mucosa and stand guard there, but it’s not clear how much of the antibody pool can be mobilized, or how quickly. If the answer is not much, then viruses could bloom in the nose — and be sneezed or breathed out to infect others. “It’s a race: It depends whether the virus can replicate faster, or the immune system can control it faster,” said Marion Pepper, an immunologist at the University of Washington in Seattle. “It’s a really important question.” This is why mucosal vaccines, like the nasal spray FluMist or the oral polio vaccine, are better than intramuscular injections at fending off respiratory viruses, experts said.}}

In January 2021, Israel announced that Israelis who had received their second vaccination and those who had proof of recovery from infection would be eligible for a Green Pass, exempting them from isolation requirements{{Cite web|url=https://www.cnbc.com/2021/01/15/israel-is-launching-covid-immunity-passports-for-vaccinated-citizens.html | vauthors = Turak N |date=15 January 2021 |title=Israel is launching Covid immunity passports. Here's what they allow you to do |publisher=CNBC }} and mandatory COVID-19 tests, including those on arrival from overseas.{{Cite news|url=https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-israels-green-passport-provides-vaccination-incentive-1001355771|title=Israel's green passport provides vaccination incentive |newspaper=Globes|date=March 2021 }} In February 2021, Israel became one of the first countries to implement a vaccine passport system, dubbed the Green Pass. They are required in order to access venues such as gyms, hotels, bars, and restaurants.{{Cite news|last=Kershner|first=Isabel|date=18 February 2021|title=As Israel Reopens, 'Whoever Does Not Get Vaccinated Will Be Left Behind'|language=en-US|work=The New York Times|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2021/02/18/world/middleeast/israel-covid-vaccine-reopen.html|access-date=28 March 2021|issn=0362-4331}}{{Cite web|last=Gold|first=Hadas|date=11 March 2021|title=Israel vaccination 'Green Pass' may offer a glimpse of a post-Covid future|url=https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/israel-vaccine-green-pass-wellness/index.html|access-date=28 March 2021|publisher=CNN|language=en}}{{Cite web|last=Fauzia|first=Miriam|date=2 March 2021|title=Fact check: Israel launching 'Green Pass' for citizens vaccinated against COVID-19|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/factcheck/2021/03/02/fact-check-israel-launching-green-pass-covid-19-vaccinated/6871965002/|access-date=28 March 2021|website=USA Today|language=en-US}} In October 2021, Israel announced an update to its guidelines, requiring that the most recent vaccine dose (or proof of recovery) to have been during the past six months. This change made Israel the first country to make a booster shot a requirement for its vaccine passport system.{{Cite web|last=The Associated Press|title=Israel tightens COVID 'green pass' rules, sparking protest|url=https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/israel-tightens-covid-green-pass-rules-sparking-protest-80376179|access-date=2021-11-21|website=ABC News|language=en}}

{{also|Vaccination policy#Table}}

{{Main|COVID-19 pandemic in Morocco}}

In August 2021, Morocco established a nightly curfew between 23:00 and 04:30, exempting those fully vaccinated.{{Cite web|url=https://crisis24.garda.com/insights-intelligence/intelligence/risk-alerts/wip10011847570/morocco-authorities-extend-health-state-of-emergency-through-sept-10-to-combat-covid-19-and-its-variants-update-69|title=Morocco: Authorities extend health state of emergency through Sept. 10 to combat COVID-19 and its variants /update 69|website=Morocco: Authorities extend health state of emergency through 10 Sep to combat COVID-19 and its variants /update 69 | Crisis24}} The curfew was lifted in November 2021.{{Cite web |last=newsafrica |date=2021-11-10 |title=Morocco ends Covid-19 Curfew |url=https://cdn2.newsafricanow.com/exclusives/morocco-ends-covid-19-curfew/ |access-date=2022-03-10 |website=News Africa Now |language=en-US}}

{{See also|COVID-19 pandemic in Azerbaijan}}

Beginning on 1 September 2021, Azerbaijan required proof of vaccination for people over 18 to enter virtually all public spaces, and a national mandate of 1 October required vaccination of all state-regulated workers.{{Cite web|title=COVID vaccination to become virtually compulsory in Azerbaijan {{!}} Eurasianet|url=https://eurasianet.org/covid-vaccination-to-become-virtually-compulsory-in-azerbaijan|access-date=8 October 2021|website=eurasianet.org|language=en}}

{{See also|COVID-19 vaccination in China}}

In February 2020, China started to use digital "health codes", available on a variety of platforms including WeChat and Alipay with scannable QR barcodes displaying a "traffic light" system of colours to enter public transport, shops, restaurants and malls. It was used 40 billion times between February and March.

In March 2021, an "International Travel Health Certificate" was created.{{Cite web|url=https://kunpeng.co.uk/blog/chinas-digital-health-certificates|title=China's Digital Health Certificates —|access-date=17 September 2021|archive-date=3 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210803064637/https://kunpeng.co.uk/blog/chinas-digital-health-certificates|url-status=dead}} In March 2021,{{Cite news| vauthors = Liu R, Munroe T |date=9 March 2021|title=China launches COVID-19 vaccine passport for cross-border travel|work=Global News|agency=Reuters|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/7685366/covid-vaccine-passport-china/}} the government of China rolled out the world's first{{Cite news|date=10 March 2021|title=China introduces world's first 'virus passport' programme|publisher=France 24|agency=Agence France-Presse|url=https://www.france24.com/en/asia-pacific/20210310-china-introduces-virus-passports-as-russia-signs-deal-to-produce-covid-vaccine-in-eu}} COVID-19 vaccine passport system through a partnership{{Cite news| vauthors = Cockerell I |date=12 March 2021|title=China's new vaccine passport could expand the state's already vast surveillance program|work=Coda Story|url=https://www.codastory.com/authoritarian-tech/china-vaccine-passport/}} with Alipay and WeChat. The system provides a health certificate that includes an individual's vaccine status and the results of COVID-19 testing. Initially, the system would only indicate that an individual had been vaccinated if they received a Chinese-made coronavirus vaccine, leading to criticism, though by April 2021 the system began to accept records of receiving the Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and Janssen vaccines.{{Cite news| vauthors = Duo E |date=20 April 2021|title=China to recognize Western shots for its vaccine passports, as it seeks to reopen|newspaper=The Washington Post|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/asia_pacific/china-vaccine-passport-visas-covid/2021/04/20/8a6422d0-a14e-11eb-8a6d-f1b55f463112_story.html}} As of March 2021, the app was optional and its use was restricted to Chinese citizens. The digital health passport is intended to better facilitate travel.{{Cite news| vauthors = Gan N, Griffiths J |date=21 April 2021|title=China's vaccine nationalism softens as country signals it may approve foreign-made shots|publisher=CNN|url=https://www.cnn.com/2021/04/21/china/china-covid-football-mic-intl-hnk/index.html}} Privacy advocates and Chinese netizens have expressed concerns regarding the potential invasive data collection and the use of data for non-health monitoring purposes.{{Cite news| vauthors = Davidson H, Wu PL |date=1 April 2020|title=China's coronavirus health code apps raise concerns over privacy|work=The Guardian|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/apr/01/chinas-coronavirus-health-code-apps-raise-concerns-over-privacy}}

According to Minister of health and education requires passport number, Iranian national ID card code for issuing vaccine digital foreign travel card.{{cite web |url=https://vaccine.gums.ac.ir/%D8%A7%D8%AE%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%B1/%D9%86%D8%AD%D9%88%D9%87-%D8%AF%D8%B1%DB%8C%D8%A7%D9%81%D8%AA-%DA%A9%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%AA--%D9%88%D8%A7%DA%A9%D8%B3%D9%86-%D8%AF%DB%8C%D8%AC%DB%8C%D8%AA%D8%A7%D9%84-%D9%88%D8%B2%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%AA-%D8%A8%D9%87%D8%AF%D8%A7%D8%B4%D8%AA |title=صدور کارت دیجیتال واکسن کرونا {{!}} سامانه واکسیناسیون |website=vaccine.gums.ac.ir |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220211063503/https://vaccine.gums.ac.ir/%D8%A7%D8%AE%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%B1/%D9%86%D8%AD%D9%88%D9%87-%D8%AF%D8%B1%DB%8C%D8%A7%D9%81%D8%AA-%DA%A9%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%AA--%D9%88%D8%A7%DA%A9%D8%B3%D9%86-%D8%AF%DB%8C%D8%AC%DB%8C%D8%AA%D8%A7%D9%84-%D9%88%D8%B2%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%AA-%D8%A8%D9%87%D8%AF%D8%A7%D8%B4%D8%AA |archive-date=2022-02-11}}

File:Foreign travel iranian gov mohe vacineCard-covid1 1.jpg

{{See also|COVID-19 vaccination in Israel}}

Israel was one of the first countries to issue what is known as a Green Pass in February 2021.{{Cite web|url=https://lexatlas-c19.org/first-in-first-out-the-rise-and-fall-of-israels-green-pass/|title=First In First Out: The Rise and Fall of Israel's Green Pass|date=2 June 2021|website=Lex-Atlas: Covid-19}} The pass was discontinued on 1 June 2021, but following a surge of new infections, it was reinstated on 29 July 2021.{{Cite web|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/israel-reinstate-covid-19-green-pass-vaccine-certificates-delta-variant-n1274746|title=Israel to reinstate coronavirus 'Green Pass' as Delta variant hits|date=22 July 2021 |publisher=NBC News}} In October 2021, all existing Green Passes were voided if the most recent shot was administered more than 6 months ago. A new pass would be issued upon proof of a third (booster) dose or a recovery within the past 6 months.{{Cite web|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/8239533/israel-covid-green-pass-booster-shot/|title=Israel adds COVID-19 booster shot requirement to its vaccine passport – National | Globalnews.ca|website=Global News}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.ft.com/content/a1b2fd70-71b5-4e91-be0b-553b0e1e2639|title=Israelis face losing vaccine passport without Covid boosters|first=Mehul|last=Srivastava|newspaper=Financial Times|date=3 October 2021}} A temporary Green Pass could also be obtained with a negative viral test, but must be paid for by the individual unless ineligible for vaccination.{{Cite web|title=More than 1 million Israelis who haven't gotten booster will lose quarantine exemption|url=https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/world/more-than-1-million-israelis-who-havent-gotten-booster-will-lose-quarantine-exemption/ar-AAOZLeW?ocid=BingNewsSearch|access-date=4 October 2021|publisher=MSN}} Starting 1 March 2022, most COVID-19 regulations were relaxed, and a Green Pass is now only required to enter old age homes.{{Cite web |title=Israel drops almost all COVID health rules as it exits Omicron wave |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/israel-drops-almost-all-covid-health-rules-as-it-exits-omicron-wave/ |access-date=2022-03-06 |website=www.timesofisrael.com |language=en-US}}

{{See also|COVID-19 vaccination in Japan}}

On 19 July 2021, Japan began accepting applications for its COVID-19 vaccination passport program. When issued, the passports will be in paper form in both Japanese and English, showing the holder's date(s) of inoculation and the vaccine type, and are available free of charge.{{Cite web|last=Osumi|first=Magdalena|date=22 July 2021|title=Japan's vaccine passports: Here's what you need to know|url=https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2021/07/22/national/vaccine-passports-explainer/|access-date=8 August 2021|website=The Japan Times|language=en-US}} As of 20 December 2021, entry restrictions were relaxed for Japan vaccine passport holders in 76 countries.{{Cite web|last=Takahara|first=Kanako|date=20 December 2021|title=Japan has released its digital vaccine passport. Here's what you need to know.|url=https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2021/12/20/national/japan-digital-vaccine-passport-app-explainer/|access-date=27 November 2023|website=The Japan Times|language=en-US}}

{{See also|COVID-19 vaccination in Saudi Arabia}}

Residents attending restaurants, cafes and public spaces like malls, shopping centres and markets must be fully vaccinated. The country uses the Tawakkalna app which includes information for health appointments, vaccination status and alerts users to COVID-19 exposure for contact tracing purposes.{{cn|date=November 2023}}

{{See also|COVID-19 vaccination in Singapore}}

Since 10 August 2021, all residents dining out must be fully vaccinated by showing proof of vaccination using the TraceTogether or HealthHub app, or use the TraceTogether token. Proof of vaccination has been progressively implemented in almost all public venues since 13 October 2021, starting with shopping malls, retail shops, entertainment venues except bars, nightclubs and karaoke parlours, attractions, cruises and eateries. It has since been expanded to include large events, public libraries, selected events at community buildings and will be expanded to tertiary institutions, places of lodging, small events and workplaces from January 2022.{{citation needed|date=December 2021}}

{{See also|COVID-19 vaccination in South Korea}}

On 1 November 2021, a vaccine passport system went into effect in South Korea as part of a "living with COVID-19" strategy, requiring vaccination of all residents wishing to access high-risk areas such as bars, restaurants, gyms and saunas must be vaccinated.{{Cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/skorea-eases-curbs-imposes-vaccine-passports-living-with-covid-19-campaign-2021-11-01/|title=S.Korea eases curbs, imposes vaccine passports in 'living with COVID-19' campaign|first1=Josh|last1=Smith|first2=Sunghyuk|last2=An|date=1 November 2021|work=Reuters.com}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.cnbc.com/2021/10/29/south-korea-loosens-restrictions-in-step-toward-living-with-covid-19.html|title=South Korea loosens restrictions in first step toward 'living with Covid-19'|date=29 October 2021|publisher=CNBC}}

{{See also|COVID-19 vaccination in Taiwan}}

On 25 October 2021, the Taiwanese government announced that the digital COVID certificate system in the country had been completed.{{Cite web|title=Taiwan has completed digital COVID certificate system: Minister – Focus Taiwan|url=https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202110250010|access-date=2021-12-21|website=focustaiwan.tw|date=25 October 2021 |language=zh-Hant-TW}} In December 2021, the system was also recognised by the EU as an equivalent of the EU Digital Covid Certificate. On 20 January 2022, Taiwan officially released the certificate and implemented rules that it be required before entering bars or karaoke alike.{{Cite web|date=2022-01-20|title=Taiwan's adult entertainment venues to require vaccination proof for entry on Jan. 21 {{!}} Taiwan News {{!}} 2022-01-20 18:33:00|url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4416674|access-date=2022-01-21|website=Taiwan News}}

{{main|EU Digital COVID Certificate}}

The European Union offers an EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC), also known as the Green Pass, a digitally-signed proof of vaccination, proof of a recent recovery, or a recent negative test, for use when travelling within the Schengen area with fewer restrictions.{{cn|date=November 2023}}

{{See also|COVID-19 vaccination in Bulgaria}}

On 19 October 2021, the caretaker Minister of Health of Bulgaria, Stoycho Katsarov, introduced the Green Certificate (Bulgarian: Зелен Сертификат). Since 21 October 2021, all visitors to cinemas, theaters, concerts, museums, galleries, supermarkets over 300 square meters, fitness centers, gyms, restaurants and entertainment centers in Bulgaria have to prove that they are vaccinated, have a valid negative test from last 72 hours or have been ill recently.{{Cite web |last=Welle (www.dw.com) |first=Deutsche |title=България въвежда зелен Ковид сертификат {{!}} DW {{!}} 19.10.2021 |url=https://www.dw.com/bg/%D0%B1%D1%8A%D0%BB%D0%B3%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B8%D1%8F-%D0%B2%D1%8A%D0%B2%D0%B5%D0%B6%D0%B4%D0%B0-%D0%B7%D0%B5%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%BD-%D0%BA%D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4-%D1%81%D0%B5%D1%80%D1%82%D0%B8%D1%84%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%B0%D1%82/a-59550032 |access-date=2022-03-10 |website=DW.COM |language=bg-BG}}{{Cite web |title=Официално: Зеленият сертификат влeзe в сила, 8 общини минават изцяло на онлайн обучение - По света и у нас - БНТ Новини |url=https://bntnews.bg/news/oficialno-zeleniyat-sertifikat-vleze-v-sila-8-obshtini-minavat-izcyalo-na-onlain-obuchenie-1172552news.html |access-date=2022-03-10 |website=bntnews.bg |language=bg}} The restrictions ended on 10 March 2022.{{Cite web |title=Разхлабват мерките: Без зелен сертификат в обекти с обществено значение - България |url=https://dariknews.bg/novini/bylgariia/razhlabvat-merkite-bez-zelen-sertifikat-v-obekti-s-obshtestveno-znachenie-2303027 |access-date=2022-03-10 |website=dariknews.bg |date=9 March 2022 |language=bg}}

{{See also|COVID-19 vaccination in Denmark}}

Denmark introduced a Coronapas on 21 April 2021. Those unvaccinated with a recently negative test of 72 hours or previous infection of COVID-19 of up to 12 weeks prior were included in the pass system. Due to the high uptake of vaccines, Denmark retired their system on 10 September 2021.{{Cite news|date=27 August 2021|title=Denmark to lift all remaining Covid restrictions on 10 September|url=http://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/27/denmark-to-lift-all-remaining-covid-restrictions-on-10-september|work=The Guardian}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/may/02/stark-contrast-how-covid-pass-is-helping-denmark-open-up|title='Stark contrast': how Covid pass is helping Denmark open up|date=2 May 2021|work=The Guardian}}

{{See also|COVID-19 vaccination in France}}

France issued a Health Pass (or Pass Sanitaire in French) on 9 August 2021, for use in non-essential settings for those 18 and older.{{Cite web|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/alexledsom/2021/09/07/french-vaccine-passports-warning-for-fall-family-holidays/|title=French Vaccine Passports: Warning For Fall Family Holidays|first=Alex|last=Ledsom|website=Forbes}}{{Cite web|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/8162976/france-vaccine-passport-cases-covid/|title=COVID-19 cases down after France introduced its vaccine passport — will the same happen in Canada?|date=2 September 2021|website=Global News}} To obtain the pass people must be fully vaccinated or undertake a test within 72 hours of attending a non-essential space or have recovered recently from an infection of the virus.56522408 The initial announcement of the pass system is believed to have encouraged an additional one million people to sign up for vaccination the day following the announcement, and is credited to encouraging a further 3.7 million people to sign up for vaccination in the following week.{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.co.uk/article/france-vaccine-passport-health-pass|title=France's vaccine passport worked – sort of|magazine=Wired}} Starting 1 October 2021, those age 12 and older will require a Pass Sanitaire to enter public sites like restaurants, cinemas, and sporting events.{{Cite news|date=2021-09-30|title=France extends Covid-19 health pass rule to teens, lifts mask mandate for some schools|language=en|work=The Straits Times|url=https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/france-extends-covid-19-health-pass-rule-to-teens-lifts-mask-mandate-for-some-schools|access-date=2021-10-20|issn=0585-3923}}

{{See also|COVID-19 vaccination in Germany}}

File:Internationaler Impfausweis.png

In Germany, proof of COVID vaccinations or recent recovery, is typically entered in the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis ({{langx|de|Impfausweis}}), similar to how other vaccinations for other diseases are recorded. The entry in this booklet can be used to acquire an EU Digital COVID Certificate, in accordance with EU Directive 2021/953, effective 1 July 2021.{{cite web |year=2021 |title=Regulation (EU) 2021/953 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 June 2021 on a framework for the issuance, verification and acceptance of interoperable COVID-19 vaccination, test and recovery certificates (EU Digital COVID Certificate) to facilitate free movement during the COVID-19 pandemic |url=https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32021R0953 }}

Outside of the application of the EUDCC, Hungary recognises Kazakh{{Cite web|title=Hungary Becomes First Country in EU to Recognize Kazakhstan's Vaccination Passports|url=https://bm.ge/en/article/vapirebt-10-wliani-gegmis-momzadebashi-ucxoeli-partniorebi-chavrtot---premieri--/85853|access-date=1 October 2021|website=bm.ge|date=25 June 2021 |language=en}} and Indian{{cite news |title=Not just UK, over 30 nations now recognise India's Covid-19 vaccine certificate |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/not-just-uk-over-30-nations-now-recognise-india-s-covid-19-vaccine-certificate-101634263197572.html |access-date=12 November 2021 |work=Hindustan Times |date=15 October 2021 |language=en}} vaccine passports.

{{See also|COVID-19 vaccination in the Republic of Ireland}}

In July 2021, Ireland introduced a vaccine certificate program (EU Digital COVID Certificate) which allowed vaccinated individuals to attend cafes, bars and restaurants. Due to one of the highest uptakes of COVID-19 vaccines in the world, the Republic of Ireland (but not Northern Ireland) had plans to retire their vaccine passport program on 22 October 2021 however this was postponed due to increased COVID-19 cases and hospital numbers.{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/ireland-drop-almost-all-covid-19-restrictions-october-2021-08-31/|title=Ireland to drop almost all COVID-19 restrictions in October|website=Reuters|first=Conor|last=Humphries|date=31 August 2021|accessdate=18 February 2022}}{{Cite web |url=https://www.thejournal.ie/new-reopening-plans-ireland-restrictions-5578668-Oct2021/|title=At a glance: What are the new reopening plans?|work=The Journal|date= 19 October 2021}} On 22 January 2022, the Republic of Ireland's vaccine passport programme was retired, except for international travel.{{Cite news|last=Lehane|first=Mícheál|date=2022-01-21|title=Martin hails a 'good day' as most restrictions to end|url=https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2022/0121/1274972-coronavirus-ireland/|language=en|publisher=RTÉ News and Current Affairs}}

{{See also|COVID-19 vaccination in Italy|COVID-19 pandemic in Italy}}

In August 2021 the Italian government extended the requirement of the EU Digital COVID Certificate, also known as a Green Pass, to the participation in sports events and music festivals, but also to access to indoor places like bars, restaurants and gyms, as well as to long-distance public transportation.{{cite news |last1=Giuffrida |first1=Angela |title=Italy imposes 'green pass' restrictions on unvaccinated people |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/jul/22/italy-covid-19-green-pass-vaccinations-restrictions |access-date=31 August 2021 |work=The Guardian |date=22 July 2021 |language=en}} On 15 October 2021, Italy became the first country in the world to require its entire workforce, public and private, to have a government-issued health pass.[https://www.nytimes.com/live/2021/10/15/world/italy-covid-green-pass/workers-across-italy-face-a-new-reality-no-health-pass-no-paycheck Workers across Italy face a new reality: No health pass, no paycheck.], The New York Times* {{cite web |title=VerificaC19 |url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=it.ministerodellasalute.verificaC19&hl=en&gl=US |website=Apps on Google Play |language=en |quote=official app of the Italian government... to verify the validity and authenticity of COVID-19 Green Certificates}}

• {{cite web |title=Immuni |url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=it.ministerodellasalute.immuni&hl=en&gl=US |website=Apps on Google Play |access-date=24 November 2021 |language=en |quote=Immuni is the official exposure notification app of the Italian government...The system is based on Bluetooth Low Energy technology, which is designed to be especially energy-efficient, and it doesn’t collect any geolocation data, including GPS data.}}

On 1 December 2021 the Swedish government introduced vaccine passports for indoor events with more than 100 people. Indoor events with more than 100 participants who do not use vaccination certificates must follow specific guidelines to avoid spreading the disease.{{cite web |last1=Regeringskansliet |first1=Regeringen och |title=Beslut om vaccinationsbevis för allmänna sammankomster och offentliga tillställningar gäller från 1 december 2021 |url=https://www.regeringen.se/pressmeddelanden/2021/11/beslut-om-vaccinationsbevis-for-allmanna-sammankomster-och-offentliga-tillstallningar-galler-fran-1-december-2021/ |website=Regeringskansliet |language=sv |date=24 November 2021}}{{cite news |title=Sweden to introduce vaccine passes for events of over 100 people |url=https://www.thelocal.se/20211117/analysis-will-sweden-introduce-covid-vaccine-passes/ |work=The Local Sweden |date=17 November 2021}}

{{Main|COVID-19 vaccination in Ukraine}}

In Ukraine, citizens with at least one dose of a vaccine are allowed to attend certain high-risk indoor settings which would normally be closed or heavily restricted in hot spots.{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/ukrainian-government-announces-vaccine-passports-2021-09-13/|title=Ukrainian government announces vaccine passports|agency=Reuters|date=13 September 2021|work=Reuters.com}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/world/story/ukrainian-government-announces-vaccine-passports-1852489-2021-09-14|title=Ukrainian government announces vaccine passports|date=14 September 2021|website=India Today}}

{{Main|COVID passports in the United Kingdom}}

Proof of vaccination programs exist in the Home Nations of the United Kingdom, with England and Wales referring to them as "NHS COVID Pass", Scotland as "NHS Scotland Covid Status",{{cite news |last1=Bradley |first1=Jane |title=Covid Scotland: How vaccine passports have 'become normal' around the world |url=https://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/covid-scotland-how-vaccine-passports-have-become-normal-around-the-world-3389897 |access-date=7 October 2021 |work=The Scotsman |date=22 September 2021}} and Northern Ireland as "COVIDCert NI".{{Cite web|title=Large outdoor events resume from 17 January|url=http://www.gov.scot/news/large-outdoor-events-resume-from-17-january/|access-date=2022-01-31|website=www.gov.scot|language=en}}{{Cite news|date=2022-01-27|title=Covid passports: Where do I still need to use one?|language=en-GB|work=BBC News|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/explainers-55718553|access-date=2022-01-31}} By December 2021, all four nations had mandated proof of vaccination or a recent negative test in specific settings. The exact rules vary by nation, but they primarily applied to venues such as cinemas, nightclubs, and venues hosting large organized events (including but not limited to concerts and sporting events).

In September 2021, Secretary of Health Sajid Javid stated that England would not implement a mandate for proof of vaccination, following pushback from Conservative members of parliament and business leaders over potential discrimination and economic harm.{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-58535258|title=England vaccine passport plans ditched, Sajid Javid says|date=12 September 2021|work=BBC News}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2021/09/12/world/europe/britain-vaccine-passport-cancelled.html|title=Amid cries of tyranny, England cancels plans to require vaccine passports.|first=Alyssa|last=Lukpat|date=12 September 2021|work=The New York Times}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-58795758|title=Covid-19: Vaccine passports and children urged to get jabs in hotspot county|date=4 October 2021|work=BBC News}}{{cite news|last1=Jackson|first1=Marie|date=12 September 2021|title=England vaccine passport plans ditched, Sajid Javid says|work=BBC News|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-58535258|access-date=7 October 2021}} Prime Minister Boris Johnson subsequently stated that England would focus on a strategy of contact tracing, rapid testing, and the rollout of vaccine boosters, and only included mandatory proof of vaccination in a package of "plan B" measures (including a reintroduction of mask mandates) in the event of another surge of COVID-19 cases.{{cite news|date=20 October 2021|title=What is Covid Plan B and what are the rules across the UK this winter?|work=BBC News|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/explainers-52530518|access-date=24 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210223064350/https://www.bbc.com/news/explainers-52530518|archive-date=23 February 2021}}{{Cite news|date=2021-09-14|title=Boris Johnson warns Covid risk remains as he unveils England's winter plan|language=en-GB|work=BBC News|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-58560031|access-date=2021-12-09}}{{Cite news|date=2021-09-14|title=Covid jab rollout for 12 to 15-year-olds to start in UK schools|language=en-GB|work=BBC News|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-58552769|access-date=2021-12-09}} The spread of Omicron variant in England would lead to the implementation of "plan B", resulting in proof of vaccination for nightclubs and large events becoming mandatory beginning 15 December.{{Cite news|date=2021-12-08|title=Covid: New Plan B rules on working from home and masks announced for England|language=en-GB|work=BBC News|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-59585307|access-date=2021-12-09}} These restrictions ended on 27 January 2022.{{Cite news|date=2022-01-19|title=Covid: Face mask rules and Covid passes to end in England|language=en-GB|work=BBC News|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-60047438|access-date=2022-01-19}}

{{See also|COVID-19 pandemic in North Macedonia}}

Residents wishing to attend events, bars, restaurants, and other dining establishments must present proof of vaccination.{{Cite web|last=Howell|first=Beth|date=23 April 2021|title=Which Countries Are Using COVID-19 Vaccine Passports?|url=https://www.movehub.com/blog/countries-using-covid-passports/|access-date=8 October 2021|website=MoveHub|language=en-US}}

[[File:Canada provinces and territories with COVID-19 Vaccine Passports.svg|thumb|Vaccine passport status in Canada:

{{legend|#808080|No plans for a vaccine passport}}

{{legend|#fffc6c|Partial vaccine passport program in effect}}

{{legend|#1a2e8f|Vaccine passport program in effect}}

{{legend|#ff3547|Terminated vaccine passport}}

]]

File:Canadian COVID-19 proof of vaccination.jpg

{{See also|COVID-19 vaccination in Canada}}

The implementation of digital proof of vaccination in Canada has largely been conducted at the provincial and territorial level, with the federal government specifying the SMART Health Card document and QR code standard designed to be suitable for international travel.{{Cite news|date=22 October 2021|author=Rachel Gilmore|title=Trudeau unveils Canada's international proof-of-vaccination for COVID-19|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/8286078/covid-coronavirus-vaccine-passport-certificate-federal-travel/|access-date=28 October 2021|work=Global News|language=en-US}}{{cite web |title=About the Canadian COVID-19 proof of vaccination |url=https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadian-covid-19-proof-vaccination.html |publisher=Government of Canada |access-date=3 November 2021 |date=25 October 2021}}{{Cite news |last=Osman |first=Laura |date=2021-10-21 |title=Feds, provinces agree on vaccine passport for domestic, international travel: PM |work=CP24 |agency=The Canadian Press |url=https://www.cp24.com/news/feds-provinces-agree-on-vaccine-passport-for-domestic-international-travel-pm-1.5632766 |access-date=2022-01-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231229175534/https://www.cp24.com/news/feds-provinces-agree-on-vaccine-passport-for-domestic-international-travel-pm-1.5632766 |archive-date=2023-12-29}}

As of November 2021, all ten provinces in Canada, and two of the three territories, had implemented or announced plans to implement a provincially-regulated vaccine passport.

Beginning 30 October 2021 proof of vaccination became mandatory for all passengers aged 12 and older boarding domestic and/or international commercial airplanes departing from most Canada-based airports, and those riding on the cross-country Via Rail services.{{Cite news|last=Tumilty|first=Ryan|date=7 October 2021|title=Sweeping federal vaccine mandate goes into force Oct. 30 and targets last holdouts|language=en|work=National Post|url=https://nationalpost.com/news/politics/federal-vaccine-mandate-to-be-imposed-at-end-of-october|access-date=7 October 2021}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.canada.ca/en/transport-canada/news/2021/10/mandatory-covid-19-vaccination-requirements-for-federally-regulated-transportation-employees-and-travellers.html|title=Mandatory COVID-19 vaccination requirements for federally regulated transportation employees and travellers|first=Transport|last=Canada|date=6 October 2021|website=www.canada.ca}}

Travellers by land (via the United States border) are required to be fully vaccinated to enter Canada and must provide a negative test 72-hours before land crossing.{{Cite web|url=https://travel.gc.ca/travel-covid/travel-restrictions/covid-vaccinated-travellers-entering-canada|title=COVID-19 vaccinated travellers entering Canada - Travel restrictions in Canada|first=Global Affairs|last=Canada|date=8 April 2021|website=travel.gc.ca}}{{Cite web|last=Harris|first=Sophia|date=November 8, 2021|title=The U.S. land border is open. Here's what you need to know|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/u-s-land-border-open-vaccinated-1.6233944|website=CBC News}} An exception was made for essential workers, until January 15, 2022 when essential workers (mainly truckers) were required to be fully vaccinated to re-enter the country.{{Cite web|first=|date=13 January 2022|title=Requirements for truckers entering Canada in effect as of January 15, 2022|url=https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/news/2022/01/requirements-for-truckers-entering-canada-in-effect-as-of-january-15-2022.html|website=Public Health Agency of Canada}} In late-January 2022, a convoy to and demonstration in the federal capital of Ottawa—supported primarily by far-right activists and groups—was held to protest this change.{{cite news|last1=Reynolds|first1=Christopher|last2=Ibrahim|first2=Erika|date=January 24, 2022|title=Trucker convoy raises millions in funds as vaccine-hesitant supporters flock to cause|language=en-CA|work=The Toronto Star|publisher=Toronto Star Newspapers|agency=The Canada Press|url=https://www.thestar.com/business/2022/01/24/trucker-convoy-raises-millions-in-funds-as-vaccine-hesitant-supporters-flock-to-cause.html|access-date=January 26, 2022}}{{cite news|last1=Taylor|first1=Casey|date=January 26, 2022|title=Truck convoy's message muddies the closer it gets to capital|work=baytoday.ca|publisher=Village Media|url=https://www.baytoday.ca/local-news/truck-convoys-message-muddies-the-closer-it-gets-to-capital-4994947|access-date=January 27, 2022}}{{Cite web|last=Aiello|first=Rachel|date=January 25, 2022|title=Conservative MPs cheer on trucker convoy, voice opposition to vaccine mandates|url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/mobile/politics/conservative-mps-cheer-on-trucker-convoy-voice-opposition-to-vaccine-mandates-1.5754495|access-date=January 29, 2022|website=CTVNews|language=en}}

Alberta implemented the Restrictions Exemption Program (REP) from 20 September 2021 to 8 February 2022, after re-establishing a state of emergency on 15 September 2021. The government described the program as an opt-in system, allowing establishments to operate with fewer restrictions. Visitors at these establishments were required to present a proof of vaccination or a recent negative test. If a facility does not participate, or is prohibited from participating, it was required to comply with all public health orders, such as reduced capacity and/or being prohibited from offering indoor dining.{{cite news|date=15 September 2021|title=Alberta to launch proof-of-vaccination program, declares health emergency amid surge in COVID-19 cases|publisher=CBC News|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/kenney-shandro-hinshaw-update-covid-19-1.6177210|access-date=18 September 2021}}

Due to Omicron variant, even establishments participating in REP became subject to restrictions in December 2021, including restrictions on the capacity of large venues (50%), and restaurants subject to limits on table sizes, a prohibition on entertainment, and operating hours.{{Cite web|date=2021-12-21|title=Alberta reduces attendance at large venues to avoid COVID-19 superspreaders, opens boosters to all adults|url=https://edmonton.ctvnews.ca/alberta-reduces-attendance-at-large-venues-to-avoid-covid-19-superspreaders-opens-boosters-to-all-adults-1.5715178|access-date=2021-12-21|website=CTV News Edmonton|language=en}}

The city of Calgary passed a municipal bylaw on 23 September 2021 to mandate participation in REP by all industries that are eligible to do so.{{Cite web|date=22 September 2021|title=New Calgary COVID-19 bylaw will make vaccine passport program mandatory|url=https://calgary.ctvnews.ca/new-calgary-covid-19-bylaw-will-make-vaccine-passport-program-mandatory-1.5596304|access-date=23 September 2021|website=CTV News Calgary|language=en}} The bylaw ceased on 9 February 2022 due to the lifting of the REP by the provincial government. The city considered reimplementing the mandate at the municipal level (as haveseveral U.S. cities) but such a proposal was rejected by the city council committee.{{cite web |last1=Kanygin |first1=Jordan |title=Calgary council committee votes against exploring its own vaccine passport |url=https://calgary.ctvnews.ca/calgary-council-committee-votes-against-exploring-its-own-vaccine-passport-1.5775082 |website=CTV News Calgary |access-date=February 10, 2022 |date=February 9, 2022}}

Manitoba was the first province to introduce a passport system in Canada on 17 July 2021. The passport requirement was removed for movie theatres, museums and galleries on 7 August 2021,{{cite web |title=Public Health Order Changes to Come into Effect Aug. 7; Many Sectors to Fully Open with No Restrictions |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=51998&posted=2021-08-03 |website=Province of Manitoba |access-date=6 October 2021 |date=3 August 2021}} only to be reinstated on 3 September 2021, upon Manitoba expanding its passport system. The province utilized physical Immunization Cards which faced supply shortages in production.{{Cite web|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/8016526/manitoba-pausing-printing-of-immunization-cards-due-to-overwhelming-demand/|title=Manitoba pausing printing of immunization cards due to 'overwhelming demand'|date=9 July 2021|website=Global News}}

Quebec was the second province to implement a vaccine passport system on 1 September 2021, using QR codes.{{Cite web|url=https://www.quebec.ca/en/health/health-issues/a-z/2019-coronavirus/progress-of-the-covid-19-vaccination/covid-19-vaccination-passport|title=COVID-19 vaccination passport|website=quebec.ca}}

The Northwest Territories will implement an opt-in vaccine passport system on 22 October 2021 using original vaccination receipts.{{cite web | title=N.W.T. voluntary vaccine passport program set to launch Oct. 22, as COVID-19 cases trend downward – CBC News | publisher=Canadian Broadcasting Corporation | date=2021-10-14 | url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/north/nwt-vaccine-passport-1.6211060 | access-date=2021-10-18}}

• British Columbia has created a Proof of vaccination system which utilises a QR code. The system initially relied on paper receipts of the BC vaccine receipt and gradually migrated to a digital system. The QR code can also be physically printed out.{{Cite web|title=Proof of vaccination|url=https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/vaccine/proof|website=www2.gov.bc.ca|date=9 January 2025 }}
• New Brunswick requires a Proof of Vaccination system using original immunisation records.{{Cite web|url=https://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/news/news_release.2021.09.0641.html|title=REVISED / New regulations introduced to increase vaccination rates and slow the spread of COVID-19|date=15 September 2021|website=www2.gnb.ca}}
• Newfoundland and Labrador has plans to release a QR code based system for their vaccine passport.{{cite web | title=N.L. government reveals draft vaccine passport plan to St. John's business community – CBC News | publisher=Canadian Broadcasting Corporation | date=2021-09-20 | url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/draft-vaccine-passport-plan-business-consultation-1.6192668 | access-date=2021-10-18}}
• Nova Scotia has a Proof of Full Vaccination Policy using original government issued proof of vaccination.{{Cite web|date=30 January 2020|title=Coronavirus (COVID-19): Nova Scotia COVID-19 Proof of Vaccination|url=https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/proof-of-full-vaccination-policy/|website=Coronavirus (COVID-19)}}
• Ontario introduced a vaccine passport system on 22 September 2021. The system initially relied on original vaccine paper receipts, but gradually began switching over to verifiable QR codes along with the introduction of the "Verify Ontario" mobile app on 22 October 2021.{{Cite web|title=Proof of COVID-19 vaccination|url=https://covid-19.ontario.ca/proof-covid-19-vaccination|website=COVID-19 (coronavirus) in Ontario}} As of 4 January 2022, only vaccine receipts with verifiable QR codes and the "Verify Ontario" mobile app will be accepted at venues where proof of vaccine is required.{{cite web| url = https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1001327/ontario-taking-action-to-protect-against-omicron-variant| title = Ontario Newsroom}}
• Prince Edward Island uses the PEI Vax Pass Program using original government issued vaccination information.{{Cite web|title=PEI Vax Pass Program|url=https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/topic/pei-vax-pass-program|website=princeedwardisland.ca|access-date=5 October 2021|archive-date=23 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211223030425/https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/topic/pei-vax-pass-program|url-status=dead}}
• Saskatchewan has a Proof of vaccination mandate, effective from 1 October 2021 to 13 February 2022.{{Cite web|title=Businesses And Venues Requiring Proof Of Vaccination Or Negative Tests Starting October 1, 2021|url=https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/news-and-media/2021/september/30/businesses-and-venues-requiring-proof-of-vaccination-or-negative-tests--starting-october-1-2021|access-date=3 October 2021|website=Government of Saskatchewan|language=en}}{{Cite web|title=New Sask. public health order will include proof of vaccination requirements for more businesses|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/8269181/new-sask-covid-public-health-order-oct-2021/|access-date=15 October 2021|website=Global News|language=en-US}}{{cite web |title=Saskatchewan Ending Proof Of Vaccination Requirement {{!}} News and Media |url=https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/news-and-media/2022/february/08/saskatchewan-ending-proof-of-vaccination-requirement |website=Government of Saskatchewan |access-date=February 10, 2022 |date=February 8, 2022}}
• Yukon territory will implement a passport system on 30 November 2021 to access non-essential indoor facilities.{{cite web | title=Yukon premier announces vaccine mandate, passport program starting Nov. 30 – CBC News | publisher=Canadian Broadcasting Corporation | date=2021-10-15 | url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/north/yukon-vaccine-mandate-passport-program-1.6212703 | access-date=2021-10-18}}

{{See also|COVID-19 vaccination mandates in the United States}}

File:COVID vaccine passports by state.svg

Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issues a COVID-19 vaccine card that may be accepted as proof of vaccination (but is vulnerable to forgery and counterfeiting, and thus not a verifiable proof of vaccination),Kelleher RK (Oct 21, 2021). [https://www.forbes.com/sites/suzannerowankelleher/2021/07/28/vaccine-passport-digital-proof-of-covid-vaccination-status/?sh=355f9b0e4493 "5 Ways To Get Digital Proof Of Covid Vaccination Status—Even If You Live In A Red State"]. Forbes. Retrieved 23 October 2021. the United States does not have a federal framework for a digital vaccine passport, and federal officials explicitly ruled out doing so, citing privacy and human rights concerns. This leaves their implementations up to individual states and territories.

Prior to the issue becoming politicised, public views on vaccine passports were evenly split and the divide crossed, rather than followed, political and ideological lines.{{Cite medRxiv |vauthors=Hall MA, Studdert DM |date=31 March 2021 |title=Public Views about COVID-19 "Immunity Passports" |language=en |medrxiv=10.1101/2021.01.26.21250184}} Since then, criticism and conspiracy theories surrounding the vaccines in general, and in turn vaccine mandates, largely came from the political right; for example, U.S. representative for Georgia's 14th congressional district Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Republican, asserted that requesting the disclosure of one's vaccine status was a violation of data privacy rules for the health care industry, even though said rules only apply to entities such as health insurers.{{Cite news|last=Kavi|first=Aishvarya|date=22 July 2021|title=How the HIPAA Law Works and Why People Get It Wrong|language=en-US|work=The New York Times|url=https://www.nytimes.com/article/hipaa-law.html|access-date=23 July 2021|issn=0362-4331}}{{Cite news|last=Chiu|first=Allyson|date=22 May 2021|title=Explaining HIPAA: No, it doesn't ban questions about your vaccination status|newspaper=The Washington Post|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/wellness/hipaa-vaccine-covid-privacy-violation/2021/05/22/f5f145ec-b9ad-11eb-a6b1-81296da0339b_story.html|access-date=23 July 2021}}{{Cite web|date=21 July 2021|title=Lawmaker Marjorie Taylor Greene, in Ten Words or Less, Gets HIPAA All Wrong|url=https://lawandcrime.com/legal-analysis/lawmaker-marjorie-taylor-greene-in-ten-words-or-less-gets-hipaa-all-wrong/|access-date=23 July 2021|website=Law & Crime|language=en}}

The state governments of California, Hawaii, Louisiana, New York, North Carolina, Delaware, and Virginia have each rolled out mechanisms where residents can choose to receive proof of COVID-19 vaccination in the form of a scannable QR code by linking to records within each state's immunization registry.{{cite news |last1=Bursztynsky |first1=Jessica |title=How to get New York's Excelsior Pass so you can show your proof of vaccination from your phone |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2021/08/04/how-to-get-ny-excelsior-pass-proof-covid-vaccine.html |access-date=22 August 2021 |publisher=CNBC |date=4 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210804141807/https://www.cnbc.com/2021/08/04/how-to-get-ny-excelsior-pass-proof-covid-vaccine.html |archive-date=4 August 2021}}{{cite news |last1=Littlehales |first1=Alex |title=Digital Vaccine Cards: How to get them in Virginia, North Carolina |url=https://www.13newsnow.com/article/news/health/coronavirus/digital-vaccine-card-virginia/291-69d540fb-7fc8-447a-b7db-25f191474aaf |access-date=22 August 2021 |publisher=WVEC TV 13 |date=17 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210818140621/https://www.13newsnow.com/article/news/health/coronavirus/digital-vaccine-card-virginia/291-69d540fb-7fc8-447a-b7db-25f191474aaf |archive-date=18 August 2021}}{{Cite web|date=2021-12-21|title=DPH Launches QR Tool Giving Delawareans Convenient Access to Their COVID-19 Vaccine Record|url=https://news.delaware.gov/2021/12/21/dph-launches-qr-tool-giving-delawareans-convenient-access-to-their-covid-19-vaccine-record/|access-date=2022-01-07|website=State of Delaware News|language=en-US}} Illinois has a Vax Verify website, where residents can download proof of COVID-19 vaccination for businesses that require it.{{Cite web|date=12 August 2021|title=Illinois Launches Online COVID Vaccine Verification Portal 'Vax Verify'|url=https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/coronavirus/illinois-launches-online-covid-vaccine-verification-portal-vax-verify/2588015/}} In New Jersey, residents can obtain a digital COVID-19 vaccination record through its mobile app Docket; Governor Phil Murphy specifically avoided using the term "vaccine passport" to describe the service.{{Cite web|last=Fallon|first=Scott|title=Is NJ vaccine app for COVID records really a passport?|url=https://www.northjersey.com/story/news/coronavirus/2021/07/16/nj-vaccine-app-docket-covid-vaccine-passport/7955554002/|access-date=1 October 2021|website=North Jersey Media Group|language=en-US}}

Each state credential has varying degrees of interoperability with other state and foreign governments; some states have closed systems, with QR codes that are only usable within the issuing state, and others have broad interoperability, with New York offering both types of credentials for its residents.{{cite news |title=Governor Cuomo Announces Launch of Excelsior Pass Plus to Support the Safe, Secure Return of Tourism and Business Travel |url=https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-cuomo-announces-launch-excelsior-pass-plus-support-safe-secure-return-tourism-and |access-date=22 August 2021 |publisher=Governor’s Press Office – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo |date=5 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210805153219/https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-cuomo-announces-launch-excelsior-pass-plus-support-safe-secure-return-tourism-and |archive-date=5 August 2021}} Arizona, Maryland, Mississippi, North Dakota, Washington, West Virginia, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia have contracted with the organization MyIR that interfaces with governmental vaccination records to produce a PDF proof of vaccination, but has also moved toward scannable QR codes. Health departments in Indiana, Colorado, and Georgia can provide proof of vaccination in PDF form but not via a QR code.{{cite news |title=LA Wallet app will let you have digital copy of COVID-19 vaccine card |url=https://www.wdsu.com/article/la-wallet-app-will-let-you-have-digital-copy-of-covid-19-vaccine-card/36344052 |access-date=22 August 2021 |publisher=WDSU 6 News |date=5 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210505215041/https://www.wdsu.com/article/la-wallet-app-will-let-you-have-digital-copy-of-covid-19-vaccine-card/36344052 |archive-date=5 May 2021}}{{cite web |url=https://myirmobile.com/ |title=MyIR Mobile |access-date=23 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210823020159/https://myirmobile.com/ |archive-date=23 August 2021}}{{cite news |last1=Rowan Kelleher |first1=Suzanne |title=5 Ways To Get Digital Proof Of Covid Vaccination Status—Even If You Live In A Red State |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/suzannerowankelleher/2021/07/28/vaccine-passport-digital-proof-of-covid-vaccination-status/?sh=307b95994493 |access-date=23 August 2021 |work=Forbes |date=28 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210823030234/https://www.forbes.com/sites/suzannerowankelleher/2021/07/28/vaccine-passport-digital-proof-of-covid-vaccination-status/?sh=307b95994493 |archive-date=23 August 2021 |url-status=dead }}{{cite news |last1=Cipriani |first1=Jason |title=Stop carrying around your vaccination card. Here's how to keep a digital copy on your phone |url=https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/stop-carrying-around-your-vaccination-card-heres-how-to-keep-digital-copy-on-your-phone/ |access-date=23 August 2021 |publisher=CNET |date=22 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210822180409/https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/stop-carrying-around-your-vaccination-card-heres-how-to-keep-digital-copy-on-your-phone/ |archive-date=22 August 2021}}

At least 20 states have prohibited public agencies from issuing or requiring a vaccine passport, while Alabama, Florida, Iowa, Montana, and Texas also made it illegal for any private entity to request proof of vaccination as a condition of service, under the assertion that they discriminate against those who have made a personal choice to not receive the vaccine.{{Cite web|last=Sakariassen|first=Alex|date=30 July 2021|title=How to comply with Montana's new vaccine discrimination law|url=http://montanafreepress.org/2021/07/30/montana-vaccine-discrimination-guidelines/|access-date=13 August 2021|website=Montana Free Press|language=en-US}}{{Cite web|last=Owens|first=Caitlin|title=Republicans push to ban "discrimination" against unvaccinated people|url=https://www.axios.com/republicans-coronavirus-vaccines-discrimination-law-states-533503fb-fa83-43d0-bd51-2d614483d241.html|access-date=13 August 2021|website=Axios|date=12 July 2021 |language=en}}{{Cite web|last=Richardson|first=Ian|title=Iowa Senate gives final passage to 'vaccine passport' ban, sending it to Gov. Kim Reynolds|url=https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/politics/2021/05/05/iowa-legislature-approves-covid-vaccine-passport-ban-sends-gov-kim-reynolds/4946846001/|access-date=2021-10-28|website=Des Moines Register|language=en-US}}

Los Angeles County began a proof of vaccination system for indoor bars, restaurants, venues and nightclubs on 7 October 2021.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cnn.com/2021/09/17/us/los-angeles-county-vaccination-requirement-venues/index.html|title=The most populous county in the US issued a proof of vaccine requirement for indoor bars and nightclubs|author1=Sarah Moon |author2=Christina Maxouris |date=18 September 2021 |publisher=CNN}}

New York City began its Excelsior Pass or Key to NYC vaccine passport system for dining, fitness, events and indoor entertainment on 13 September 2021.{{Cite web|url=https://www.amny.com/coronavirus/city-starts-enforcing-covid-vaccine-mandate-at-indoor-venues-monday/|title=NYC begins enforcing COVID-19 vaccine mandate for indoor businesses Monday. Here's what you need to know.|first=Kevin|last=Duggan|website=amny.com|date=12 September 2021}}{{Cite web|url=https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/covid/covid-19-vaccines-keytonyc.page|title=COVID-19: Vaccine Key to NYC|website=www1.nyc.gov}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.cnn.com/2021/09/13/us/new-york-vaccine-passport/index.html|title=New York City now enforcing Covid-19 vaccine requirement for most indoor activities|first=Eric|last=Levenson|date=13 September 2021 |publisher=CNN}}

New Orleans began to require proof of vaccination or a negative test to enter indoor bars, restaurants, events, fitness, and sporting events on 16 August 2021.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/13/us/new-orleans-vaccination-proof/index.html|title=New Orleans to require proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test to enter certain indoor venues|author1=Aya Elamroussi |author2=Rebekah Riess |date=13 August 2021 |publisher=CNN}}

{{See also|COVID-19 vaccination in Brazil}}

In December 2020, the Brazilian Senate approved a document giving digital proof of all vaccinations – not just those in respect of COVID-19. However, the urgency for creating such a digital proof of vaccination came from the COVID-19 pandemic.{{Cite web|url=https://brazilian.report/liveblog/coronavirus/2020/12/16/brazilian-senate-approves-digital-vaccination-card/|title=Brazilian Senate approves new, digital vaccination card|date=16 December 2020|website=The Brazilian Report}}

{{See also|COVID-19 vaccination in Chile}}

In May 2021, then Health Ministry Subsecretary, Paula Daza, mandated the "mobility pass" (pase de movilidad) in gyms, restaurants and swimming pools. This document was given to people with two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, later it was upscaled to three doses and later on in the same year four doses were required, being one of the most drastic vaccines passports in the world.{{cite web |title=Pase de Movilidad: Gobierno anunció extensión de uso para salir a hacer actividad física en comunas en cuarentena |url=https://www.cnnchile.com/coronavirus/pase-de-movilidad-extension-para-actividad-fisica_20210607/ |publisher=CNN Chile |access-date=8 June 2022 |date=7 June 2021 |language=es}}{{cite web |title=Pase de movilidad para vacunados: cómo solicitarlo, dónde se descarga y para qué sirve |url=https://chile.as.com/chile/2021/07/08/actualidad/1625768867_034133.html |publisher=As |access-date=8 June 2022 |language=es |date=8 July 2021}} Chile is the only country in the world with entry procedures such as requiring homologation of vaccines to travel to.{{cite web |title=Partido Republicano solicita al gobierno eliminar exigencia del Pase de Movilidad |url=https://veritascapitur.cl/partido-republicano-solicita-al-gobierno-eliminar-exigencia-del-pase-de-movilidad/ |publisher=Veritas Capitur |access-date=8 June 2022 |date=7 June 2022 |archive-date=7 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220607160616/https://veritascapitur.cl/partido-republicano-solicita-al-gobierno-eliminar-exigencia-del-pase-de-movilidad/ |url-status=dead }}

{{Main|My Vaccine Pass}}

On 17 November 2021, the New Zealand Government launched a vaccine certificate called My Vaccine Pass for individuals who have been vaccinated against COVID-19. The vaccine pass is required to enter hospitality venues, community, sport and faith-based gatherings as defined by the COVID-19 Protection Framework.

They came into force on 29 November 2021.{{cite news |title='My Vaccine Pass' launched |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/ninetonoon/audio/2018820876/my-vaccine-pass-launched |access-date=18 November 2021 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=17 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211117072648/https://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/ninetonoon/audio/2018820876/my-vaccine-pass-launched |archive-date=17 November 2021}}{{cite news |title=All you need to know about My Vaccine Pass |url=https://www.odt.co.nz/news/national/all-you-need-know-about-my-vaccine-pass |access-date=18 November 2021 |work=Otago Daily Times |publisher=Allied Press |date=17 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211116225357/https://www.odt.co.nz/news/national/all-you-need-know-about-my-vaccine-pass |archive-date=16 November 2021|url-status=live}} On 23 November, the New Zealand Government launched the NZ Pass Verifier to scan the passes.{{cite news |title=Covid Pass verifier app now available for businesses |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/456349/covid-pass-verifier-app-now-available-for-businesses |access-date=3 December 2021 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=23 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211123234007/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/456349/covid-pass-verifier-app-now-available-for-businesses |archive-date=23 November 2021|url-status=live}}

On April 5, 2022, vaccine passes will no longer be required for most venues.{{cite web | url=https://covid19.govt.nz/covid-19-vaccines/covid-19-vaccination-certificates/my-vaccine-pass/ | title=Proof of your vaccination status | date=8 December 2022 }}

On June 1, 2022, all vaccine passes will become invalid, and will no longer be required for any venue.{{cite web | url=https://covid19.govt.nz/covid-19-vaccines/covid-19-vaccination-certificates/my-vaccine-pass/ | title=Proof of your vaccination status | date=8 December 2022 }}

As of September 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) acknowledged that mandatory COVID-19 vaccine passports would be discriminatory against countries with little access to vaccinations, but could eventually be considered for international travel when vaccine access improves.{{cite news |author=Cecelia Smith-Schoenwalder |title=WHO: COVID-19 vaccine passports could be considered when vaccine coverage improves |url=https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2021-09-14/who-covid-19-vaccine-passports-could-be-considered-when-vaccine-coverage-improves |access-date=3 November 2021 |work=U.S. News |date=14 September 2021}}

In some jurisdictions, vaccine uptake increased after various levels of governments announced plans to mandate their use.{{Cite news |url=https://www.barrietoday.com/local-news/simcoe-muskoka-sees-increase-in-first-dose-vaccine-appointments-4320389 |title=New vaccine passport system leads to increase in first-dose appointments |work=BarrieToday.com |first=Erika |last=Engel |date=10 September 2021 |access-date=27 December 2021 }}{{Cite news |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/8141626/bc-vaccine-passport-bookings/ |title=B.C. sees big boost in bookings after announcing vaccine passport program |date=25 August 2021 |work=Global News |first=Simon |last=Little |access-date=27 December 2021 |publisher=Corus Entertainment Inc.}}

The ethical issues that arise in the acceptability of vaccine passports revolve around the policy objectives and the intended use. The public health restriction on implementing vaccine passports limits the freedom of an individual to perform social activities.{{cite journal | vauthors = Hall MA, Studdert DM | title="Vaccine Passport" Certification – Policy and Ethical Considerations | journal = The New England Journal of Medicine | pages = NEJMp2104289 | date = March 2021 | volume = 385 | issue = 11 | pmid = 33789006 | doi = 10.1056/NEJMp2104289 | doi-access = free }}

File:Vandalism against Justin Trudeau and the Covid-19 Passport in Toronto (2021).png, Canada (2021)]]

People who are privileged to receive the vaccination will have gained access to going back to normal life while low-income populations will remain disproportionately low on vaccinations which hinders their ability to participate in non-essential activities.

Due to the imbalance in the distribution of vaccines in the developing world, there are concerns about the inequity of vaccine passports for travellers. On 15 April 2021, the World Health Organization's emergency committee opposed vaccination passports, saying, "States parties are strongly encouraged to acknowledge the potential for requirements of proof of vaccination to deepen inequities and promote differential freedom of movement".{{Cite web|url=https://www.scmp.com/news/world/europe/article/3130249/who-says-against-proof-covid-19-vaccination-international-travel|title=WHO says against proof of Covid-19 vaccination for international travel|date= 20 April 2021 |website=South China Morning Post}}

However, many countries may increasingly consider the vaccination status of travellers when deciding to allow them entry or whether to require them to quarantine. "Some sort of vaccine certificate will be important" to reboot travel and tourism, according to Dr. David Nabarro, special envoy on COVID-19 for the WHO, in February 2021.{{Cite web| vauthors = Hainey R, Otter S |date=15 February 2021|title=Coronavirus LIVE updates with government lockdown review underway|url=https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/uk-news/coronavirus-live-updates-lockdown-review-19839071|access-date=17 April 2021|website=Manchester Evening News|language=en}}

In March 2021, Bernardo Mariano, the WHO's Director of Digital Health and Innovation, said that "We don't approve the fact that a vaccination passport should be a condition for travel."{{Cite news| vauthors = Josephs J |date=20 March 2021|title=Qantas boss: Governments 'to insist' on vaccines for flying|publisher=BBC|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/business-56460329|access-date=21 March 2021}} Lawmakers in several US states are also considering legislation to prohibit COVID-19 vaccination passports.{{cite web |title=Vaccine passports are latest flash point in Covid politics |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/vaccine-passports-are-latest-flash-point-in-covid-politics/O3Q7ADAQM4X5QIIZDLNHTGOPV4/ |website=The New Zealand Herald |publisher=NZME Publishing Limited |access-date=4 April 2021 |date=4 April 2021 }}

Ethical concerns about vaccine passports have been raised by Human Rights Watch (HRW).{{Cite news| vauthors = Roth K, Sparrow A |date=28 April 2020|title=Should People Without Coronavirus Antibodies Be Second-Class Citizens?|work=The New York Times|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/28/opinion/coronavirus-antibody-certificate-testing.html|access-date=1 May 2020}} According to HRW, requiring vaccine passports for work or travel could force people into taking tests or risk losing their jobs, create a perverse incentive for people to intentionally infect themselves to acquire immunity certificates, and risk creating a black market of forged or otherwise falsified vaccine cards.

By restricting social, civic, and economic activities, vaccine passports may "compound existing gender, race, ethnicity, and nationality inequities."{{cite journal | vauthors = Phelan AL | title = COVID-19 immunity passports and vaccination certificates: scientific, equitable, and legal challenges | journal = Lancet | volume = 395 | issue = 10237 | pages = 1595–1598 | date = May 2020 | pmid = 32380041 | pmc = 7198144 | doi = 10.1016/S0140-6736(20)31034-5 | doi-access = free }} Immunity certificates also face privacy and human rights concerns.{{Cite news|date=6 April 2021|title=Covid: US rules out federal vaccine passports|language=en-GB|work=BBC News|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-56657194|access-date=7 April 2021 |quote="The government is not now, nor will be, supporting a system that requires Americans to carry a credential," she said. "Our interest is very simple from the federal government, which is Americans' privacy and rights should be protected.}}

A security vulnerability in the app used by New Jersey and Utah briefly made it possible to request the QR codes of other users, containing encoded name, date of birth, and vaccination history information.{{Cite web|title=A security bug in health app Docket exposed COVID-19 vaccine records|url=https://techcrunch.com/2021/10/27/docket-vaccine-records-covid-security/|access-date=2021-10-28|website=TechCrunch|date=27 October 2021 |language=en-US}} On 24 September 2021, Saskatchewan Health Authority stated that digital vaccine records obtained in the province between 19 and 24 September may have accidentally contained the wrong QR code for the specific user.{{Cite web|date=2021-09-24|title=QR codes removed from Sask. vaccination records due to privacy breach|url=https://regina.ctvnews.ca/qr-codes-removed-from-sask-vaccination-records-due-to-privacy-breach-1.5599830|access-date=2021-09-29|website=CTV News Regina|language=en}}

{{Main|COVID-19 vaccine card}}

People may acquire a degree of natural immunity from SARS-CoV-2 when they are exposed to the live virus, and develop a primary immune response which produces antibodies that can recognize specific variants.{{cite journal|vauthors=Greely HT|date=25 July 2020|title=COVID-19 immunity certificates: science, ethics, policy, and law|journal=Journal of Law and the Biosciences|volume=7|issue=1|pages=lsaa035|doi=10.1093/jlb/lsaa035|pmc=7313854|pmid=32839671}} As of May 2021, the WHO reported that more than 90% of individuals established recognizable antibodies within four weeks after an infection. For most people, these detectable antibodies roughly stay for at least 6–8 months.{{Cite web|title=COVID-19 natural immunity|url=https://www.who.int/publications-detail-redirect/WHO-2019-nCoV-Sci_Brief-Natural_immunity-2021.1|date=10 May 2021|access-date=19 July 2021|publisher=World Health Organization|language=en}} However, antibodies may not guarantee immunity from novel variants and mutations of SARS-CoV-2. The uncertainty of the science behind immunity to SARS-CoV-2 has raised issues over their applicability within passport frameworks.{{cite journal|vauthors=Phelan AL|date=May 2020|title=COVID-19 immunity passports and vaccination certificates: scientific, equitable, and legal challenges|journal=Lancet|volume=395|issue=10237|pages=1595–1598|doi=10.1016/S0140-6736(20)31034-5|pmc=7198144|pmid=32380041|doi-access=free}}

It has been argued that the primary difference is that vaccination certificates such as the Carte Jaune incentivize individuals to obtain vaccination against a disease, while immunity passports incentivize individuals to get infected with and recover from a disease.

• COVID-19 vaccine card
• COVID-19 vaccine
• Deployment of COVID-19 vaccines
• Electronic health record
• Living with COVID-19
• Patient record access
• Vaccination requirements for international travel

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