People in Wales will now have to prove they are fully vaccinated or have had a negative lateral flow test to visit theatres, cinemas and concert halls after the existing NHS COVID Pass scheme was widened.
Proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test in the previous 48 hours has been a requirement to enter nightclubs and similar venues in the nation since 11 October.
But the Welsh Parliament has now extended the rules to cover cinemas, theatres and concert halls in response to a high level of COVID-19 cases across the country.
The guidance on self-isolation had also changed and people are being encouraged to work from home to help bring the coronavirus under control.
The extension of the COVID Pass for the over-18s was approved by the Senedd in a vote last week.
Dawn Bowden, deputy minister for arts and sport, said: “Cases of coronavirus in Wales are very high at the moment and we all need to work together to bring them under control.
“Extending the use of the COVID Pass to cinemas, theatres and concert halls is another way we can strengthen the measures we have in place to keep us all safe.
“I understand the challenges this sector has faced during the pandemic – this will help keep these businesses open during the difficult autumn and winter months ahead.
“We want to do everything we can to keep Wales open and to keep Wales safe and to give people the confidence to return to these venues.”
Those who fake a coronavirus test result or vaccination status will be committing a criminal offence and face a fixed penalty notice under the rules.
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Health minister Eluned Morgan added: “The feedback we have had suggests the system is working well. We will continue to work with the sectors introducing the pass to support them.”
Workplaces are required by law to undertake COVID risk assessments and to put reasonable measures in place to ensure staff safety.
The Welsh government will use the current enforcement regimes for monitoring compliance.
A premises could be issued with an improvement notice or closure notice, while a fixed penalty notice and a maximum fine for businesses of £10,000 can be issued.
