Face Mask Rules Vary Across Europe, Threatening Travel Recovery
Face mask rules across Europe remain varied, with some countries mandating their use on public transport while others have lifted restrictions. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) warns that this lack of coordination could hinder the travel and tourism sector's recovery, putting millions of jobs near me at risk.
As of October 2025, up-to-date information on Schengen countries with binding mask mandates beyond public transport is scarce. Medical experts advise that face masks can reduce COVID-19 transmission risk by up to 90%.
WTTC President & CEO Gloria Guevara urges European governments to quickly harmonize travel rules and border requirements. She suggests considering other countries' measures, such as infection rates and testing protocols, to align policies. Inconsistent rules are confusing travelers and potentially suppressing the sector's recovery.
A 27% increase in travel could recreate 10 million jobs, while a 2.7% increase could generate or recover one million jobs. WTTC emphasizes the importance of restoring consumer confidence during the peak travel season in Europe. Governments are encouraged to coordinate their policies to facilitate a smoother recovery for the travel and tourism sector.
