Following the emergence of the Omicron variant of Covid-19 the latest gov.uk travel update states that every traveller entering the UK must now self-isolate and take an approved PCR test by the end of day two after their arrival.
What do I need to do?
Before departure you will have to show proof of a negative test, even if you are fully vaccinated.
This can be a PCR or a lateral flow test, and must be taken in the two days before departure for the UK.
You’ll need to find a private test provider for this as the free NHS lateral flow kits are not allowed.
The test can be taken either in the country where you start your journey, or in another country en route to the UK (for instance if you’re travelling overland).
If you test positive, you should follow local rules in place in the country you’re in, and must not travel to the UK.
Once you arrive in the UK, you have two days to take an approved PCR test.
The test can be taken at any time between day 0 (day of arrival) and before the end of day two. It is therefore possible to take the test on arrival, either with an airport test provider or using a kit that you have purchased, to reduce the time you need to self-isolate. Most testing providers aim to turnaround the result on a ‘next day’ basis.
The PCR test must be booked before you travel and purchased privately from one of the government-approved list of providers.
While you are waiting for a result, you must self-isolate – whether you have been vaccinated or not. You can stop self-isolating if your test is negative.
For more details, please speak to the team here at Meon.
What do I do before travelling back to the UK?
All travellers visiting the UK must fill out a passenger locator form. This form needs to be completed even if you are simply transiting. The form must be completed within 48 hours, or less, of your journey.
From 04:00 GMT on Tuesday, 7 December, all travellers will be required to show proof of a negative PCR or lateral flow test taken no earlier than 48 hours before departure.
Again, if you have any questions, please speak to the team here at Meon.
What if I’m unvaccinated?
If you are not fully vaccinated you will need to:
- Take a PCR or lateral flow/antigen test (not a free NHS test) in the three days before you travel to the UK
- Take a test on or before day two and on or after day eight after your return
- Self-isolate at home for 10 days after arrival in the UK
Test to Release will remain an option for unvaccinated passengers to England who want to shorten their quarantine.
To find out more about how Meon can help you with your business travel please contact us by email at [email protected] or by telephone +44 (0)116 264 5270.
