Key Points
- Eligible fully vaccinated travelers will be able to take a lateral flow test on or before day two of their arrival, instead of a PCR test beginning October 24, 2021
Overview
Beginning October 24, 2021, the UK government will require that a lateral flow test be taken on or two days before arrival in the UK, instead of a PCR test for eligible fully vaccinated travelers. In order to be eligible, travelers must be fully vaccinated and arrive from a country not listed on the UK red country list. Travelers will also be required to upload a photo of their test to verify results as soon as possible, with free confirmatory NHS PCRs for any positive cases.
What’s Changed?
Lateral tests will be accepted from fully vaccinated travelers arriving from countries, not on the UK red country list. This measure will reduce testing costs for travelers and simplify testing procedures.
Looking Ahead
The list of approved private providers of lateral flow tests will be released on October 22, 2021. Continue to check GOV.UK for the updated list.
Sources: GOV.UK
