BRUSSELS, 15 June, 2021 (TON): On Monday, the European Union (EU) officially signed the digital COVID certificate (EUDCC) in Brussels, Belgium.

The officials who appended signatures on the document include, President of the European Parliament David Sassoli, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, and Prime Minister of Portugal Antonio Costa representing the Council of the EU.

"Now we can travel in a safe way. Safe for ourselves, for those who host us, and for our families, neighbors and colleagues when we come back," said Costa.

Von der Leyen said, "With the success of our European vaccination campaign and this new EU certificate, we can all look forward to the summer. To travel safely. And we are bringing back the spirit of an open Europe."

The EUDCC will enable EU residents to travel safely during summer within the borders of the bloc, without additional restrictions.

Travel restrictions may be applied if deemed necessary. However, the EUDCC will not be a prerequisite to travel within the Schengen area, and will not be considered a travel document.

Moreover, the health pass will be a proof that the holder has either been vaccinated, passed a negative COVID-19 test, or has recovered from the disease. It will be either digital or printed on paper.