Eluned Morgan MS, Minister for Health and Social Services
The NHS COVID Pass is being extended for fully vaccinated 12-15 year olds for international travel only. This service will be available in Wales from 22 December 2021.
The Welsh Government continues to advise against all but essential international travel. However, a number of countries across the world now require children aged 12-15 to be able to provide proof of double vaccination before they will allow entry. To ensure that young people from Wales are not disadvantaged, we are extending the availability of the NHS COVID Pass for fully vaccinated 12-15 year olds. Initially this will be a paper certificate of vaccination. We continue to work with the UK Government to implement a digital system which will mirror the current system for over 16’s. I will update you when this is in place.
This system will be applicable for international travel only and there remains no requirement for under 18’s to show an NHS COVID Pass for domestic settings in Wales.
Anyone between the ages of 12 and 15 who needs a paper vaccination certificate for international travel only can call 0300 303 5667, parents are also able to call on behalf of their children. There is also more information here: www.gov.wales/nhscovidpass.
Paper certificates can only be issued if:
- the person has had a full course of the COVID-19 vaccine (they should wait 5 days after their final dose before requesting it)
- they are aged 12-15 years old
This statement is being issued during recess in order to keep members informed. Should members wish me to make a further statement or to answer questions on this when the Senedd returns I would be happy to do so.