Vaccine Passports set for boosting

Updated DCC will contain a QR code, as before, and the cert can be stored on the Covid Tracker App

Updated Digital COVID Certificates will now be issued to anyone who has received an additional vaccine dose.

Over 2.2million additional doses have already been administered in Ireland, and recipients of these vaccines can start to expect a Digital COVID Certificate recording their additional dose from this afternoon (Thursday 6 January), according to the Department for Health.

The process of issuing these certificates is expected to take a “number of days”, with people being advised to check their email.

This service is available ahead of the new EU rules which will come into effect from the beginning of next month, February 1, with a new 9-month maximum validity period for EU Digital Covid Certs based on a completed primary vaccination regime.

Ireland’s COVID-19 Booster Vaccination Programme is currently at a phase where all persons aged  16+ eligible can register for an additional dose.

The rate of uptake of the booster vaccine in Ireland is at present second highest in the EU at 57% of the adult population.

However, similar validity periods on vaccination certificates for domestic use (such as access to indoor dining etc) are not currently planned by the Government.

“I am very pleased to announce that having worked with partners across Government, EU Digital COVID Certificates will be updated to reflect additional vaccine doses,” said Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly, welcoming the latest announcement.

The Minister of State for Public Procurement and eGovernment, Ossian Smyth added that the updated Digital COVID Certificate is an “important document” that will ensure a “smooth travel experience” for anyone leaving the country in the coming months.

“The updated DCC will contain a QR code, as before, and the cert can be stored on the Covid Tracker App, replacing the old cert.”