UK ends Covid tests for fully vaccinated arrivals from today

The UK has now dropped all remaining Covid test requirements for fully vaccinated arrivals.

The change came into effect this morning (February 11) at 04:00.

It means that those who are considered fully vaccinated with an approved vaccine only now need to fill out a passenger locator form in the 48 hours before arriving in the country. There are no further requirements. 

Fully vaccinated in the UK’s case means two doses of a two-shot vaccine (the majority of vaccines approved by the UK) or one dose of the single-shot Janssen vaccine. 

Find more information on this as well as a list of the approved vaccines here. 

Previously, the UK required fully vaccinated arrivals to take a Covid test within two days of entering the country. 

Arrivals who are not considered fully vaccinated will also from today only need to take a pre-departure test and a PCR test on or before day two after entering the country. 

Previously they had to take a pre-departure test, two PCR tests (on day two and eight) after arriving, and self-isolate for 10 days. 

Additionally children aged 12-15 in England are now able to prove their vaccination status or proof of prior infection for outbound travel via a digital NHS COVID Pass. 

This could be especially useful for those planning trips to France, where a vaccine pass is in place and is required to enter the majority of leisure-orientated public venues. 

Read more: Covid-19: Rules for travel to and from France

Travel industry welcomes changes

The test-on-arrival rule that the UK had in place for fully vaccinated travellers has been heavily criticised by many in the travel industry, who have said it has priced out people looking to take holidays. 

The cost of the PCR arrival tests, which had to be taken through private companies, ranged from around £35 to £150 per person. 

Sean Doyle, chairman and CEO of British Airways, stated in a UK government press release:

“It’s great news that restrictions are being lifted in time for families to get away for a much needed break this half-term.”

Meanwhile, Mark Tanzer, chief executive of travel association ABTA said:

“Travel rules have been holding people back from taking a foreign break so these changes should serve as a boost to consumer confidence, leading more people to plan and book their overseas trips.”

Related stories:

Covid face masks no longer mandatory on French open-air ski lifts

Can double-jabbed UK residents who have had Covid travel to France?

France set to end travel Covid test rule for fully vaccinated people