Netherlands

The Netherlands is once again facing a lockdown from 19 December.

Almost all activities in society close down, in addition to those that are critical of society.

The restrictions apply over Christmas and at least until 14 January.

This means that restaurants, shops, hairdressers, gyms, cafes, museums must close.

Everyone should stay at home as much as possible and work from home.

A maximum of four people may be invited home per day.

Norway

Stricter restrictions have been in place since 16 December.

Everyone who can should work from home and everyone is encouraged to reduce the number of social contacts.

There is also a stop for alcohol serving at nightclubs.

A maximum of ten guests in the home in addition to the household members is allowed, but around Christmas and New Year, 20 people are allowed.

Adults are encouraged to cancel planned leisure activities in groups. 

A maximum of 20 people are allowed at public indoor events without fixed seats and 50 people are allowed where there are fixed seats. 

Denmark

Proposals for stricter restrictions were presented on Friday and a decision will be made shortly.

The proposal involves the closure of, for example, casinos, amusement parks, conference rooms and cinemas.

Requirements for corona passes for long-distance journeys by public transport are introduced and restaurants are forced to be closed between 23–05.

Alcohol sales are prohibited from 10 pm to 5 pm.

The requirement to wear a mouth guard is extended to several activities, such as services and driving schools.

A recommendation on homework and limited social contacts is also introduced.

Austria 

In Austria, restaurants, hotels and cafés will reopen on December 20, marking the end of the extensive closure that Austria has been in since November.  

Restaurants and cafés will still have to close at 11 pm for the time being, and bars and nightclubs will be forced to remain closed. 

When visiting gyms, hotels, cinemas and museums, for example, it is a requirement to present a certificate that you have taken an approved vaccine, tested negative for covid-19 or recovered from a covid infection.

Latvia 

The Latvian government decided in the autumn on a national emergency from 11 October and three months onwards. 

Only vaccinated and recovered persons may enter restaurants, shopping centers and shops that are considered unnecessary.

The opening hours for shops have been shortened and everyone who can is recommended to work from home.

Mouthguards are also mandatory in schools.

Anyone who does not comply with the restrictions risks a fine.

Germany

From 2 December, there is a requirement to be fully vaccinated to visit shops, restaurants or events in Germany, it is not enough to have a negative covid test.

Exceptions apply to grocery stores and pharmacies.

In public transport, a negative covid test or vaccination certificate is required.

Mouth protection is required on all public transport journeys.

For the unvaccinated, it is not allowed to meet more than two people from another household.

The German government wants to introduce vaccination requirements, but the issue has not yet been decided by Parliament.