Pre-departure COVID-19 tests
With effect from 4am on Tuesday, 7 December, ALL travellers to the UK who are aged 12 and over must take a pre-departure COVID-19 test within 48hours of travel. This rule applies to everyone, regardless of their vaccination status.
Type of pre-departure test accepted
Pre-departure tests for entry to the UK may be either a PCR or a lateral flow test.
Red list update
There are currently 11 countries on the UK’s red list, including Nigeria, which was added at 4am this morning, 6 December:
- Angola
- Botswana
- Eswatini
- Lesotho
- Malawi
- Mozambique
- Namibia
- Nigeria
- South Africa
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe.
Reminder of red list rules
All travellers (including those who are fully vaccinated) arriving in England from a red-list country must:
1. Provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test.
2. Book a managed quarantine package, including two COVID-19 tests.
3. Complete a Passenger Locator Form.
Remember, only British or Irish Nationals, or those with UK residence rights will be granted entry to England from a red list country.
All travellers must enter through a designated port and quarantine in a government approved hotel for 10 days.
Travellers transiting through Heathrow
It is our understanding that, where they don’t pass border control, red list rules don’t apply to passengers transiting to another international flight at London Heathrow. However, it is each passenger’s responsibility to check the entry rules in place at their final destination.
Further information
The above is a summary of our understanding of imminent rule changes. However, it is the responsibility of all travellers to ensure that they are familiar with all COVID-19 related travel rules in place at their time of travel.
For further information on pre-departure testing requirements and red list rules, please visit .GOV. UK, .GOV.SCOT, .GOV.WALES and NIDIRECT. GOV.UK
For any other assistance or booking enquiries, please contact us.