ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

New York mandates vaccine proof for museum, gallery, and art fair entry starting September 13

institutional · 2026-04-20

New York City has implemented an immediate requirement for visitors to museums, galleries, and art fairs to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination, with enforcement beginning on September 13. Mayor Bill de Blasio announced the 'Key to NYC' initiative, which applies to public facilities including gyms, zoos, and performance venues. Acceptable evidence includes a photo or physical copy of a vaccination card. The policy aims to encourage vaccination among both attendees and staff. This follows similar measures introduced last month in Italy and France, where museum visitors must present a pass documenting vaccination or a recent negative test.

Key facts

  • Visitors to New York museums, galleries, and art fairs must provide COVID-19 vaccine proof
  • The requirement is effective immediately but enforcement starts September 13
  • Proof includes a photo or hard copy of a vaccination card
  • The rules are part of the 'Key to NYC' initiative
  • Mayor Bill de Blasio stated the measures aim to encourage vaccination
  • The policy applies to public facilities like gyms, zoos, and performance venues
  • Italy and France announced similar requirements last month
  • In Italy and France, passes document vaccination or a recent negative test

Entities

Locations

  • New York
  • United States
  • Italy
  • France

Sources