CoWIN certificates to be linked to passport of overseas travelers for education, employment, Tokyo Olympics

Mention of vaccine type as “Covishield” is sufficient; no other qualifying entries required in Vaccination Certificates

The Health Ministry has written to States and Union Territories (UTs) to allow administration of second dose of Covishield to persons seeking to undertake international travel for educational purposes, employment opportunities or as part of India's contingent for Tokyo Olympic games and whose travel dates fall prior to completion of the currently mandated minimum interval of 84 days from the date of first dose. At present, based on the recommendations by National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-19 (NEGVAC), the schedule of Covishield vaccine under National Covid-19 Vaccination Strategy is to administer the second dose at 12-16 weeks interval (i.e. after 84 days), after administration of first dose. “States/UT governments shall designate a competent authority in each district for permission for such administration of second dose of Covishield,” said the Ministry.