The latest guidance for international travellers to the UK.
Thanks to the success of the UK’s vaccine rollout, the government has been able to take major steps towards reopening the country further to international students and visitors.
We already have one of the most open economies in Europe with the least restrictions, and because of the changes today we now have a travel sector to match it.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps
From 4am on Friday 18th March, all travel restrictions will be removed in the UK. This means that no-one entering the UK will need to take a COVID test or complete a passenger locator form. If you are due to arrive in the UK before Friday, it is important that you follow the current rules outlined below.
Fully vaccinated travellers are no longer required to take a COVID test before or upon arrival in the UK. The only requirement is to fill out a simplified passenger locator form, which will be available a day before you travel.
The UK has also recently recognised proof of vaccination from an additional 16 countries, notably China and Mexico, bringing the total to over 180 countries worldwide. Check the government website to see if your vaccine certificate is accepted. As well as receiving an approved vaccine, visitors must have received two doses at least 14 days before travel to be considered fully vaccinated.
Adults who are not considered fully vaccinated must take a pre-departure test in the 2 days before they depart for the UK and a PCR test on or before the end of day 2 after they arrive in the UK in addition to completing the passenger locator form. The good news is that visitors do not need to self-isolate once they arrive in the UK. If you receive a positive or unclear COVID test result upon arrival, you should self-isolate and avoid contact with others.
Under 18s are not required to take a Covid test before or after they arrive in the UK. They are also not required to quarantine upon arrival. If you are travelling in a group, you must check if your adult group leader is required to take a test.
With travel rules being subject to change, it is important if you are planning to come to the UK to stay up to date with the rules by visiting the UK government website. To find out more about study in the UK, including full time schooling and summer programmes, contact UK Study Centre.