NYC COVID Safe is a health application developed by the government of the City of New York. Free to download and use, this app works as a vaccine passport that allows you to show proof of vaccination whenever you go to an indoor facility.

Unlike Excelsior Pass, the NYC COVID Safe works for both residents and visitors. It is also easier to use as it is basically a camera app that enables you to take a picture of your vaccine card and store it in the app. Although, it does not verify if the saved picture is a real card. 

What is NYC COVID Safe?

The New York City government announced that beginning August 16, people participating in any indoor activity must show proof of vaccination from the coronavirus. The requirement will apply to both customers and workers. However, while residents can use the Excelsior Pass as their vaccine passports, visitors and those vaccinated elsewhere cannot. This is because the Excelsior Pass verifies your applications against the city and state vaccination records.

NYC COVID Safe offers a new way. As mentioned, this app also works like a vaccination passport. However, instead of verifying your records and providing you with a unique QR code, it allows you to save a photo of your vaccine card on your phone. Like a camera app, the app allows you to scan your vaccine cards, IDs, negative PCR test result, and other necessary requirements.

The app is extremely easy to use. All it asks is your full name, the vaccine you received, and the date of the latest dose. Then, you can proceed to snap a picture of your vaccine card. However, taking a clear image is hard work as you would have to juggle between buttons. Moreover, it does not work with two-sided cards since it can only store one picture per card. 

Should you download it?

All in all, NYC COVID Safe is an app that is handy to have if you wish to visit any indoor place in New York City. The app is straightforward and easy to use, allowing you to upload your documents easily. Additionally, it works for those who are vaccinated outside the state. That being said, the app is pretty limited and has the same functionality as a camera app.