Germany plans to end most COVID-19 restrictions on March 20

Germany plans to lift most of its COVID-19 restrictions by March 20, according to a report from The Associated Press. 

In a three-step plan endorsed by new Chancellor Olaf Scholz and the sixteen state governors, the country will start to ease restrictions that prevented residents without proof of vaccination from entering nonessential stores. 

Officials also plan to lift limits on private gatherings for vaccinated people, according to the AP. 

Beginning on March 4, restrictions on local bars and restaurants will be lifted, and residents will now show proof of a negative COVID-19 test rather than proof of vaccination against the virus, a booster shot and a recent virus test. 

Officials said that “all far-reaching protective measures” are expected to be dropped by March 20 if the situation in hospitals allows,” adding that the request for people to work from home will also end.