Going to England? UK’s rules for international travelers have changed
As of Oct. 4, the United Kingdom’s rules regarding international travel have shifted to a new system in an effort to make entry requirements for foreign nationals simpler.
The red, amber and green travel light system that has been in place since England’s reopening in May has been criticized for being too confusing and eroding consumer confidence. The British government has taken steps to simplify it by placing highrisk countries on a red list and assigning the rest of the world the same set of entry requirements.
Those traveling to England from countries and territories that aren’t on the red list will now be subject to certain conditions based on their vaccination status. To be considered fully vaccinated, persons will need to have received all doses of a vaccine type that’s been approved by programs in the U.K., Europe or the U.S., and have completed the course at least 14 days prior to arrival in England.
The government is making progress in vaccine recognition and will recognize different formulations of the four listed vaccines. For those courses that require two doses, it’ll also be acceptable to have mixed two different vaccine types or have received each inoculation under different approved national programs.
If you are fully vaccinated, you must:
■ Provide proof that you’ve been fully immunized using digital or hard-copy documentation (i.e., CDC card for Americans).
■ Pay for and book an appointment for a COVID19 test to be taken by Day 2, following arrival in England.
■ Complete a passenger locator form in the 48-hour window prior to arrival.