Negative COVID-19 Test Requirement for Travellers Arriving in the UK (update 2)
22 Jan 2021
Travellers from international destinations, including returning UK nationals, now require to have proof of a negative COVID-19 test prior to arrival to all 4 UK nations. These measures were introduced to help protect against new strains of coronavirus circulating internationally.
The COVID-19 test must be undertaken in the 3 days before you start your journey back into the UK. You will have to find a test provider that meets the required pre-departure test standards in the country you are departing.
- Failure to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test may result in denial of boarding and you could be fined on arrival to the UK.
This measure is in addition to the need to self isolate on return to the UK from countries not on the quarantine exemption (travel corridor) list.
Further details on the regulations and testing requirements are available for:
Advice for Travellers
Before making travel plans, you should check all of the following, and continue to check these during your trip as guidance may change:
- FCDO Travel Advisory Notices
- Risk of exposure to coronavirus (COVID-19) at your destination
- Requirement to arrange COVID testing at your destination prior to returning to the UK
- UK self-isolation (quarantine) rules on return to the UK
- Travel Insurance
- Medical Facilities at your destination
Further information on the points above is available on the COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel page.