What are the new test rules for travellers?

Everything we know about the new testing rules for travel to the UK
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Travellers are no longer required to take a Covid test on or before day two of their return to England, Wales and Northern Ireland – regardless of their vaccine status. Here’s everything we know about the change in the rules.

Do I need to take a Covid test for travel to the UK?

No. In February 2022, all travel testing requirements were lifted for fully vaccinated travellers entering the UK, and from 18 March, this was extended to the non-fully vaccinated too. This means that travellers who are not considered fully vaccinated no longer have to take a pre-departure test before flying to the UK or pre-book and do a PCR test on day two after arrival. 

The legal requirement to self-isolate for people who test positive for Covid was removed in England on 24 February. However, it is still advised that you stay at home if you test positive with Covid wherever possible for at least five days, if you test negative after the fifth day. 

Also from 18 March, all other remaining Covid travel rules and infrastructure were dropped, such as quarantine hotels and the requirement to fill in passenger locator forms, regardless of your vaccination status. 

What are the rules if I’m flying to Wales, Northern Ireland or Scotland?

Policy on travel is devolved, so the Welsh, Northern Irish and Scottish governments make their own rules about what tests are required – always check the specific rules for the destination you're flying into. However, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland also ceased all Covid-related travel rules from 18 March . 

Should I still want to buy a test, are lateral flow tests cheaper than PCR tests?

Yes – the list of government-approved lateral flow test providers ranges in price from £18 to £39. Free PCR tests are now only available to those with symptoms in certain vulnerable groups across the UK (although free PCR tests are still available for anyone with symptoms in Northern Ireland until 22 April, and in Scotland until the end of April).