New recommendations by the European Council will permit the lifting of restrictions on non-essential travel for vaccinated and recovered travellers, provided they have received their second dose at least 14 days “and no more than 270 days before arrival” or they have received a booster dose.

It added: “Member states should also lift the temporary restriction on non-essential travel for persons who have recovered from Covid-19 within 180 days prior to travelling to the EU.”

The Council left open the option to continue testing, however. It said: “EU countries could also require a negative PCR test taken up to 72 hours before departure and could apply additional measures such as quarantine or isolation.

“A negative PCR test before departure could also be required for persons who have recovered from Covid-19, as well as for persons who have been vaccinated with an EU-approved vaccine but do not hold an EU or equivalent certificate.”

Rules for children are also being relaxed. The EU said: “Children over six and under 18 who fulfil the conditions set out for adults should be allowed to travel.

“In addition, all other children over six and under 18 should be allowed to travel with a negative PCR test taken at the earliest 72 hours before departure. Member states could require additional testing after arrival, as well as quarantine or isolation.

“No test or additional requirements should be applied to children under the age of six.”

The Council added: “The amendments introduced respond to the evolution of the pandemic, the increasing vaccination uptake and administration of booster doses, and the recognition of a growing number of certificates issued by third countries as equivalent to the EU digital Covid certificate.”

The recommendations are not legally binding, but all EU countries are likely to follow the new guidelines.

Julia Simpson, World Travel & Tourism Council president and chief executive, said: “WTTC welcomes the sensible decision by the EU to drop travel restrictions before Easter. 

“The patchwork of rules and regulations did nothing to prevent the spread of Covid but did cause immense damage to the economy of Europe causing the loss of jobs and businesses. Now is time to rebuild travel and tourism and connect Europe to the world.”