The Mayor of Vienna, Michael Ludwig confirmed this week that 2G restrictions will likely remain in the city until April, and will only be relaxed when case numbers decline.

As such, the so-called 2G (recovered or vaccinated) rules will stay in force for hotels and restaurants, whilst FFP2 masks will still be mandatory in all indoor areas, such as shops and on public transport in the city.

The rest of the country is preparing for Covid restrictions to be eased on Saturday. However, the Vienna Mayor stated he is “very sceptical” in regard to the relaxing of measures in Austria, whilst case numbers are still elevated.

Furthermore, the 2G+ rule – meaning recovered and vaccinated plus booster or negative PCR test – will remain in Vienna’s hospitals.

Yet as from 5th March, the majority of the Covid regulations in Austria will be removed, reports The Local, bringing an end to 2G and 3G requirements to enter venues, no more midnight curfew for restaurants, and nightclubs will be permitted to reopen their doors.

Nevertheless, proof of vaccination, recovery or a negative test will still be compulsory for entry into the country.

In addition, Austria’s easing of restrictions means the present requirement to wear an FFP2 mask in public indoor areas will be eased, and will only be required on public transport, in hospitals, nursing homes and essential retail stores.

Austria’s Federal Government unveiled the plans in mid-February, with Chancellor Karl Nehammer describing the easing of regulations as a “spring awakening”.