WQ83721 (e) Tabled on 26/10/2021

Will the Minister explain why 16 and 17-year-olds are unable to obtain a paper NHS COVID-19 certificate considering they can apply for a digital one?

Answered by Minister for Health and Social Services | Answered on 02/11/2021

The NHS covid pass paper service has been set up to meet international standards for travel, which means that individuals must have received 2 vaccinations (plus 14 days) before they are eligible for a travel pass. Currently, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation only recommend that 16/17 year olds receive one dose.

The digital service provides information about all vaccinations, and will allow a 16/17 year old access to their records, although it should be noted that they may not be able to travel if they are not considered to be fully vaccinated by their country of destination.