EU proposing new travel restrictions on Americans, could end nonessential travel

The European Union on Monday formally recommended that its members stop nonessential travel from the US because of the surge in COVID-19 infections.

The 27-nation bloc in May had suggested its member states lift restrictions on such trips, allowing American tourists to visit during the key summer season.

But the EU decided that the US would again be removed from its “safe list” of countries whose residents can travel for nonessential reasons by showing proof of vaccination or a negative test.

The advice announced Monday is for visitors to now have to prove that their travel is essential and also face restrictions such as quarantines and testing requirements.

Still, it is merely a suggestion to member states, not mandatory, and national governments have the authority to decide whether to keep their borders open to American tourists.