GOV UK TRAVEL UPDATE (30.11.21)

From 4am 30th November 2021, fully vaccinated people must self-isolate and take a PCR test before the end of day 2 after they arrive in England. They may leave self-isolation if their PCR result is negative. Lateral flow tests will not be accepted.

You cannot use an NHS test for this. You must use a private test providerYou will need to enter your COVID-19 test booking reference number on your passenger locator form.

If you will be in England for less than 2 days you still need to book and pay for a day 2 COVID-19 test.

People who qualify as fully vaccinated must quarantine and take a PCR test before the end of day 2 after they arrive in England. Lateral flow tests will not be accepted.

OMICRON CASES

• There are concerns that a new variant, known as B.1.1.529 – which was identified in southern Africa – may not respond as well to vaccines.
• All contacts of suspected Omicron cases will be required to self-isolate for 10 days.
• This is regardless of a person’s vaccination status.
• Anyone entering the UK will require a PCR test by the end of the second day after their arrival and will need to self-isolate until they have a negative result.

UK’s RED LIST

• Countries in southern Africa are being placed on the UK’s travel red list because of concern about this new Covid variant.
• These are; South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Lesotho and Eswatini, Angola, Namibia, Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia 
• Travellers from all of these countries will not be able to enter the UK unless they are UK or Irish nationals, or UK residents.
• Arrivals will then have to pay for and self-isolate in a government-approved hotel for 10 days.
• Rates are;
• 10 days (11-nights) for one adult – £2,285
• Additional adult (or child over 11) – £1,430
• Children aged five to 11 – £325

FACE COVERINGS

• From Tuesday 31.11.21, people will have to wear face coverings in shops and on public transport in England.
• The changes do not include hospitality settings.
• Rules are being tightened up as part of the government’s “precautionary measures” against the Omicron variant of coronavirus.
• The PM said the new rules were temporary and would be reviewed after three weeks.
• Under the government’s Covid “Autumn and Winter Plan”, face covering use has been recommended in crowded and enclosed spaces. 
• Check the GOV UK latest rules here