Northern Ireland

Covid passports - what to expect

Covid-19 vaccine `passports' allowing people to access a range of venues are to be introduced in Northern Ireland from Monday November 29. Picture by Niall Carson/PA Wire
Covid-19 vaccine `passports' allowing people to access a range of venues are to be introduced in Northern Ireland from Monday November 29. Picture by Niall Carson/PA Wire

COVID-19 vaccine passports are likely to be introduced this month - but where do you get one, and how and when is it used?

Applications must be made through an account on the NI Direct website.

This requires photographic ID - and downloading the COVIDCertNI app to apply for a travel certificate. These have been in operation since July.

The free app requires operating system iOS 9.0 or later on iPhones, iPod Touch and iPads and 5.0 or later on Android devices.

Once a travel cert has been approved, this can be upgraded to a `domestic certificate', activated by a `selfie' photograph which will be linked to a QR code every time the pass is presented.

People without smartphones can apply for a paper version via 0300 200 7814 between 8am and 8pm Monday to Sunday, which will take up to 10 working days to arrive.

However, photo ID will be required alongside the paper certificate at venues.

Once a domestic certificate has been approved, there will be two certificates on the app.

The domestic certificate is to be used when visiting any venue that requires it within the UK. The travel certificate should be used outside the UK.

It is understood the measure will apply for access to nightclubs, hospitality venues which serve food and drink, cinemas, theatres and concert halls.

Venues and other businesses where passes will be required can download the COVIDCert Check NI app. If the QR code is verified, the display will show a green screen containing a tick. If the QR code is not verified, the display will show a red screen containing a cross.