How to access ‘proof of vaccination’ for the purpose of travel

With a new variant of Covid-19, known as Omicron, being detected, ‘proof of vaccination’  may become an entry requirement of even more destinations… 

Thankfully, the NHS app offers a quick and easy way for vaccinated travellers to access ‘proof’. However,  The process differs slightly depending on where you live and where your GP is registered.  To help keep the process as simple as possible – we’ve detailed the different steps for those living in England, Wales and Scotland. 

How to access your ‘proof of vaccination’ if you live in England

If you live in England and your GP is registered in England follow our guide below: 

How to download the NHS App 

The ‘NHS App’ is available for all British citizens. It is a separate app to the ‘NHS Covid-19’ app used for track and trace and checking into venues. 

If you have a smartphone or tablet, you can download the ‘NHS App’ from the App Store and Google Play. You can also access NHS App services from the browser on your computer or laptop if you wish. 

What items you will need to set up an account 

If you don’t have an account already, you will need to create one. To do this, you will need to agree to share your personal information and have a few items to hand, so that you can prove your identity.

You will need:

• An email address
• Mobile number 
• Your NHS number 
• Your address 
• Photo ID (Passport or Drivers License)

How to set up your account 

Once you have your documentation to hand and the app downloaded, you will be able to set up a login. To help you through the process you can follow  The NHS login set up process video or our simple steps listed below: 

Simple login set-up steps: 

1. You will enter your email address,  and in a few minutes you will receive a 6-digit security code. 
2. Choose a password 
3. Accept the NHS terms and conditions. 
4. Check the email address selected, where you’ll be asked to verify it’s you. You will then receive a 6-digit security code. 
5. Return to the NHS app, enter the 6-digit security code. 
6. Provide your mobile number. You’ll then receive an additional 6-digit security code via text. Enter that code and press continue. 
7. You will then be asked to prove your identity by uploading your photo ID. If you don’t have a form of Photo ID, click here. 
8. You’ll then be prompted to record a video of your face as you read aloud four randomly generated numbers. 
9. Next, you’ll be required to enter your address, NHS number, date of birth and name. 
10. Once you have completed these steps, you’ll be sent a confirmation email.  This may take up to 2 hours

Where your digital proof of vaccination is located 

If you have been vaccinated, you can access your ‘proof of vaccination’ by: 

1. Logging into the app 
2. Selecting the ‘Your health’ icon at the bottom 
3. Selecting the link ‘Get your NHS COVID pass’ and press continue.
4. Here you will see the option to select either ‘Event Trials’ or ‘Travel’. Select ‘Travel’.
5. A QR code will then be generated and can be scanned at airports to enter countries as required. 

How to access your ‘proof of vaccination‘ if you live in Scotland

If you’re currently living in Scotland and your GP is registered in Scotland – your ‘proof of vaccination‘ will come in the form of a letter.  Please note, you should only request your Covid-vaccination status if you are travelling in the next 14 days.
To access your Covid-19 Vaccine Status online, you’ll need to log on to www.nhsinform.scot/Covid19status.

What items you will need to set up an account 

• User name (this is provided on your appointment invite letter)
• Postcode
• Date of Birth
• Password
• Mobile number

Where to request proof of vaccination

1. Log into www.nhsinform.scot/Covid19status.
2. Select ‘vaccination status’
3. Here you will be able to view and request to print your Covid vaccination record letter.
4. Once requested your letter of record will be sent by first class post. It’s advised that you leave plenty of time for your record to arrive before travelling.

How to request by Phone

If you’re struggling to log in online or if you simply prefer to request your record over the phone you can do so by:

1. Calling the COVID-19 Status Helpline on 0808 196 8565. The helpline is open every day from 10.00am to 6.00pm.
2. Once requested your letter of record will be sent by first class post. Even if you have requested via the phone – you’ll still need to leave plenty of time for your record prior to travel.

How to access your ‘proof of vaccination‘ if you live in Wales

If you’re registered with a GP in Wales, you can now get a Digital COVID Pass. You can request your COVID pass if you have received your full course of covid vaccinations within the UK and are above the age of 16. You can access the pass, via the NHS website.

You will need to create an account and log in, you will need to upload a photo of one of the following:

• Passport
• Full UK driving licence
• Full European driving licence

If you do not have access to a smart device or are not able to provide a photographic ID – you will need to request a paper NHS COVID certificate.

Please note that once requested a digital NHS Covid pass will be valid for 30 days. To extend, simply log in to the service as the barcode automatically updates.

How to Request by Post

So, for those needing to travel, you’ll need to:

• Have received the full course of the covid-19 vaccine
• Wait at least 5 days after having your final dose
• Request your record by calling 0300 303 5667. You can call between 9am and 5pm – 7 days a week .
• Please not it can take up to 10 days for a certificate to arrive and your certificate only becomes valid 2 weeks after your final dose.

‘Proof of vaccination’ and comprehensive travel insurance 

While vaccinations can help you and those around you stay safe while travelling – you’ll still need comprehensive travel insurance. 

AllClear offers enhanced Covid cover, which has been rated ‘Superior’ by a leading independent UK Consumer Champion so that you can travel with peace of mind. 

If you are planning to travel, always remember to check the latest travel advice and entry requirements from the FCDO. For more Post-pandemic travel-related content, browse our all-in-one guide to planning post-lockdown holidays. 

Author notes

Written by Lydia Crispin, MA Content Creator at AllClear

Edited by Letitia Smith, M.Sc. Content Manager at AllClear