Cdc Vaccine Card: Validity In Austria?

Austria has been one of the first countries in Europe to introduce a coronavirus immunity card, also known as a 'green pass', which gives vaccinated people access to bars, restaurants and events. While some places in the EU require digital proof of vaccination, Austria accepts the paper CDC card. However, some travellers have reported that their CDC card was questioned or rejected. To avoid this, it is recommended to get an EU Digital Covid Certificate, which can be obtained in France and Switzerland.

CDC card accepted in Austria

The CDC card is generally accepted in Austria, though there have been some reports of confusion and isolated cases of people being turned away. The CDC card is a paper card, and some people have reported feeling that it is less secure than the EU Digital Covid Certificate, which is available in a smartphone app. However, the CDC card is still valid for entry to Austria and for accessing venues and services within the country.

Using the CDC Card in Austria

When using the CDC card in Austria, people have generally been asked to show it when entering restaurants, bars, hotels, museums, and other venues. Some people have reported that their card was only given a cursory glance, while others have had their ID checked at the same time. In some cases, people have been asked to explain that the CDC card is the official vaccination record in the US. This has been more common at smaller cafes and less touristy spots. Major tourist attractions and the border health check at Vienna Airport, for example, tend to be more familiar with the CDC card.

Getting an EU Digital Covid Certificate

Some people may prefer to get an EU Digital Covid Certificate, which can be obtained in some countries, including France, by presenting your CDC card. This may be more convenient and help avoid any potential issues with using the CDC card. However, it is not required, and the CDC card should be accepted as valid proof of vaccination in Austria.

Keeping Your CDC Card Safe

Some people have expressed concern about their CDC card getting lost or damaged when travelling. To avoid this, it is recommended to keep the original card in a safe place and carry a copy or laminate the card to protect it. Do not laminate the card if you plan to get a third shot, as they will not be able to record it on the same card.

CDC card vs EU Digital Covid Certificate

The CDC card is the official vaccination record in the US. It is a small white card and does not have a QR code.

The EU Digital Covid Certificate is a digital proof of vaccination, with a QR code, introduced by the European Union. It is available to EU citizens and can be issued by EU countries.

Using a CDC Card in Austria

Some sources suggest that the CDC card is sufficient to enter Austria, as long as the card is written in English or German. However, there are reports of venues in Austria that do not accept the CDC card, and some sources suggest obtaining an EU Digital Covid Certificate to avoid issues.

Obtaining an EU Digital Covid Certificate

It is possible for non-EU citizens to obtain an EU Digital Covid Certificate in some EU countries. For example, France will convert CDC vaccine records into an EU-approved QR code in pharmacies for a fee. In Germany, some pharmacies will issue an EU Digital Covid Certificate based on a CDC card, but there are reports that this is only available to German residents.

Differences in Verification Requirements

The requirements for proof of vaccination vary across the EU. Some countries and venues may only require proof of vaccination, while others may require a specific type of proof, such as a QR code. It is important to check the specific requirements for each country and venue before travelling.

Getting a local vaccination passport

As of September 23rd, 2021, only passes from European Union countries are accepted in Austria. This means that if you are coming from an EU state, you do not need to convert your pass and can simply show your EU country pass wherever the Covid certificate is required. However, if you are not from an EU country, you can still get a local vaccination passport in Austria.

Firstly, it is important to note that Austria still accepts paper evidence of vaccination from abroad, so getting a local vaccination passport is not necessary. However, if you would prefer to have an Austrian vaccination passport, there are a few ways to go about it.

One way is to have your vaccine status added to the Austrian "green pass" by an Austrian doctor after you arrive. According to the Austrian government, this can be done for a small fee at healthcare providers (doctors' practices, etc.). However, to access the Green Pass, users need a Handy Signatur (a digital ID connected to an Austrian mobile phone number), an e-card, or an Austrian citizen card.

If you are planning to stay in Austria long-term, you can register as living in Austria (Meldezettel) and get vaccinated for free by the government program at the official vaccination centers. After getting vaccinated, you will receive a physical confirmation (yellow pass) that is valid as an official document to prove your vaccination status.

Alternatively, if you want the Green Pass app, you will need to apply for a social insurance number from OeGK. You can do this either by going to one of their service centers in person or by sending an email to [email protected] with a copy of your passport. Once you have your social insurance number, you can go to a doctor to have your vaccination connected to your social insurance number. Then, you can get the vaccination certificate printed (either at the doctor's office or at a pharmacy) with a QR code that you can scan into the Green Pass app.

CDC card validity in Austria

As an American travelling to Austria, you may be concerned about whether your CDC card will be accepted as proof of vaccination. Here is some information that should put your mind at ease.

Firstly, it is important to note that Austria does accept the CDC card as valid proof of vaccination. However, it is always good to be prepared and bring other forms of proof, such as digital records or vaccination booklets, just in case. While the CDC card is accepted, Austria has introduced its own coronavirus immunity card, also known as the "green pass", which gives vaccinated individuals access to bars, restaurants, and events. This pass is available to Austrian citizens and residents, but not to tourists.

When it comes to day-to-day activities, such as dining at restaurants or checking into hotels, most places will accept your CDC card without issue. However, there have been isolated cases where individuals have been questioned or turned away when presenting their CDC card. This tends to occur more often at smaller cafes and less touristy spots, where staff may be less familiar with foreign vaccination records. To avoid any potential issues, it is recommended to carry a copy of your CDC card or other proof of vaccination, as well as a form of ID.

It is worth noting that the requirements for vaccine validity in Austria have changed recently. As of February 1st, 2022, Austria considers your vaccinations valid for only six months after your second dose. After this period, a booster shot will be required to maintain access to certain venues. Additionally, Austria had previously imposed a 270-day limit on the validity of the second vaccine dose, which may still be in effect for some travellers. Therefore, it is essential to stay updated with the latest entry requirements and be prepared to provide additional documentation, such as a negative COVID-19 test, if needed.

In summary, while the CDC card is generally accepted in Austria, it is always beneficial to be prepared with other forms of proof and to stay informed about the latest entry and validity requirements.

CDC card and travelling to Austria

As an American travelling to Austria, you may be concerned about whether your CDC vaccine card will be accepted as proof of vaccination. Here is some information that may be useful to you.

Austria introduced its coronavirus immunity card, also known as the 'green pass', in May 2021. This pass gives vaccinated people access to bars, restaurants and events. It is also expected to allow people to travel, in time.

Will my CDC card be accepted in Austria?

In general, yes. People who have travelled to Austria with a CDC card have reported that it has been accepted in most places, including major tourist attractions, hotels, restaurants and bars. However, there have been some reports of the card being refused in smaller cafes and venues off the beaten track.

If you are staying in Austria for a longer period, you may want to get an Austrian vaccine pass. This is not necessary, but it may make things easier for you. To get an Austrian vaccine pass, you will need to apply for a temporary social security number. You can do this online or in person at an SS office. You will need to provide your passport and an address in Austria. Once you have your temporary social security number, you can print your vaccination certificate online.

Any other tips?

It may be useful to carry a copy of your CDC card, rather than the original, to avoid losing it. You could also consider laminating your card, although this means you won't be able to add any booster shots to it. Taking a photo of your card on your phone is another option.

France and Switzerland are known to convert CDC cards into EU-compliant vaccine passes. It is worth checking the requirements of each country you plan to visit.

Frequently asked questions