The EC said the proposal followed guidance from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). Didier Reynders, commissioner for justice, said the objective was to avoid "diverging measures" within the EU.

“We propose the council agrees on a standard validity period for vaccination certificates issued following the primary series. Agreeing on this proposal will be crucial for the months ahead and the protection of the safe free movement for citizens.”

Stella Kyriakides, commissioner for health and food safety added: "Taking into account the guidance from ECDC, and to allow member states to adjust their vaccination campaigns and for citizens to have access to boosters, we propose a standard acceptance period for vaccination certificates.” 

In a statement, the EC urged members to bring their vaccination programmes into line: “Member states should immediately take all necessary steps to ensure access to vaccination for those population groups whose previously issued vaccination certificates approach the nine-month limit.”