How are the travel rules changing?
Coronavirus rules for people arriving in the UK are being significantly relaxed
Last updated 11th Feb 2022
New coronavirus measures come into effect today (Friday, 11 February) which the travel sector hopes will offer a much-needed boost.
Post-arrival tests are no longer needed, if holidaymakers are fully-vaccinated.
It'll reduce the cost of a family holiday, and offer a return to normality for many trips.
We've answered seven key questions about what is happening:
When do the changes come into effect?
On Friday at 4am.
- What are the new rules for fully vaccinated travellers?
They do not have to take any coronavirus tests.
- What was the previous situation?
They were required to buy a post-arrival lateral flow test, costing around £20 each.
- What about if I am unvaccinated
You do not need to self-isolate after you arrive.
But you must take a pre-departure lateral flow test, and a post-arrival PCR test.
- How is that different to before?
Travellers who are not fully vaccinated were previously required to self-isolate on arrival and take two post-arrival PCR tests.
- What about the passenger locator form?
All arrivals must continue to fill this in.
The UK Government has pledged to simplify the form following complaints it is too complicated.
- How about other countries?
Many popular holiday destinations such as Spain, Portugal, Greece and Turkey do not require fully vaccinated UK holidaymakers to take a test before they arrive.
France requires arrivals to have evidence of a negative test taken within 48 hours of departure, although there is speculation that will be dropped shortly.
'It's been a very challenging time', says Aviation Minister
Our reporter Georgie Prodromou has been speaking to Aviation Minister Robert Courts about today's changes to travel: