Travel during COVID-19 is a stressful affair thanks to changeable travel requirements. But there is good news! The UK is still open and ready to welcome visitors from the USA. Read on to find out what US citizens need to know about visiting the UK during COVID-19.
1. UK COVID-19 Travel Requirements Mean You Need To Plan Ahead
Since the outbreak of the Omicron variant, entering the UK has become more complicated. US travelers who aren’t residents or citizens of the UK can’t enter if they’ve visited a red list country in the 10 days prior. To enter the UK from any non-red list countries you will need:
- To take a PCR test in the 2 days before you enter the UK. This test must meet strict quality guidelines and you will need to show evidence on your arrival. You can find out more about pre-departure tests here.
- To book a PCR test and take it on or before day 2 after your arrival. After you book your test, you will receive a registration number via email, which will allow you to complete your locator form.
- To fill in a passenger locator form online. You must do this within 48 hours before your arrival.
- To show evidence on your arrival that you have received a full course of an approved vaccine. US citizens can show their CDC vaccination card.
- Once you arrive in the UK, you must go straight to your destination and self-isolate until you receive a negative result from your Day 2 test.
While this all sounds a bit overwhelming, the process is well organized and runs smoothly. PCR tests in the UK are affordable and the online locator form is easy to use.
2. COVID-19 Regulations Are Different Across The UK
The United Kingdom is made up of England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. While the UK government is based in London, England, the other 3 countries have devolved law-making powers. This means that COVID-19 regulations change as you cross the borders. Luckily, though, there are no restrictions on travel between these countries!
Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland COVID-19 Travel Restrictions
Currently, in Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland, you will need to wear a facemask in most indoor public spaces. You will also find that social distancing rules are in place and many venues can only let limited numbers of visitors in. Night clubs are closed.
Some businesses will be scanning vaccination certificates before allowing customers entry. US citizens may find that their physical CDC vaccination card causes problems, even though they are acceptable. I recommend acquiring extra proof of vaccination in a QR code format, such as the CDC’s VAMS digital certificate, before you travel.
London and The Rest Of England COVID-19 Travel Restrictions
London and the rest of England have more relaxed rules than the rest of the UK right now. While you will still need to wear a facemask in enclosed public spaces such as shops, there are fewer regulations on social distancing and group sizes. Night clubs also remain open.
It is also less common for venues to ask for your vaccination certificate on entry. Even so, at some types of events, such as concerts, you will need to show your vaccine pass at the door.
3. There Are Different Rules For Unvaccinated US Travelers
If you are an unvaccinated US citizen, the good news is that you can still visit the UK during COVID-19. To enter the UK, unvaccinated US travelers need to isolate for 10 days after their arrival. You also need to book an extra Day 8 PCR test before traveling, and must wait for a negative result before leaving quarantine.
To enjoy clubs, bars, and restaurants, you may need to show proof of a negative test at the door, instead of a vaccine certificate. You have to have taken the test within the past 48 hours and you will need to show evidence such as an email result from the test provider.
Unfortunately, you may still face difficulties. As a tourist, you won’t be reporting your COVID-19 test results to the UK’s health service apps. The apps generate QR code COVID passes from negative tests. Guidance on accepting other tests as passes is very unclear. Because of this, businesses may not recognize your email test result and could refuse you entry.
US Citizens Should Stay Up To Date With UK COVID-19 Travel Requirements
Travel requirements are mutating as fast as COVID-19, so it’s a good idea to check for changes. Follow the links throughout the article to get the latest updates.