The Bermuda government has announced the elimination of the travel authorization (TA) process some three weeks earlier than originally scheduled. The move will streamline the overall travel experience for visitors.
The requirement for an approved TA, the associated $40 fee, and proof of vaccination or medical insurance will no longer be a condition of travel from November 14, 2022. In its place, the Bermuda Tourism Authority (BTA) will reinstate the Bermuda Arrival Card, a digital form for visitors only, which was in place prior to the onset of the pandemic. The form captures visitor data, generating critical tourism statistics for the country and provides visitors, who opt-in, with relevant, timely communications to enhance their stay. The Bermuda Arrival Card is a simple online form that can be completed in mere minutes, prior to travel to the island.
Previously, the Bermuda Government announced that the legislation brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, including the use of the TA, would come to an end on November 30, 2022.
Tracy Berkeley, interim chief executive officer at BTA said, “Bermuda’s tourism industry fully supports the decision to eliminate the travel authorization and bring the island’s public health emergency orders to an end. We are especially appreciative of our partners in the Ministry of Health for the collaborative approach to solving our shared challenges. This is exciting news that will help to restore a frictionless travel experience for our visitors.”
Stephen Todd, chief executive officer at the Bermuda Hotel Association, said, “Bermuda’s hoteliers are thrilled with the decision to end the travel authorization three weeks early. This move comes at a crucial time before the U.S. Thanksgiving travel period. This is a time when we anticipate welcoming visitors looking to take advantage of the current Fall into Winter promotions. It should also support demand in time for the return of three additional direct flights from Miami, JFK and Toronto.”
Currently, visitors to Bermuda no longer require pre-travel or on-island COVID testing. The online visitor arrivals process can be completed in three steps:
- Go to www.BermudaArrivalCard.com
- Complete the form accurately and completely with visitor details
- Download the form and present it to immigration officials for inspection
There is no approval process, no fee, and once the required fields have been completed the form is available as a downloadable link or by email. All non-residents who travel to Bermuda as of November 14 must complete the Bermuda Arrival Card even if they have previously completed a travel authorization form. Hard copy ‘Pink Forms’ will be available for non-resident travelers who have not completed the digital Bermuda Arrival Card. There is no need to accept a ‘Pink Form’ if you have completed the digital form.
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