Government announces further relaxation of Covid-19 travel rules

Transport Minister Grant Shapps has announced further relaxation of Covid-19 travel rules and expanded use of the NHS Covid Pass to help boost the aviation and travel sector.

From 11th February, fully vaccinated arrivals will no longer be required to be tested for Covid-19 to be permitted to enter the UK, and only a Passenger Locator Form will be be required. Other passengers who are not fully vaccinated will need to take a pre-departure test and a PCR test on or before day two after their arrival in the UK.

Under-18s will be treated as fully vaccinated when arriving in the UK, and children aged 12-15 in England will now be able to prove their vaccination status or proof of prior infection via the NHS Covid Pass from 3rd February to ensure young people can comply with entry requirements of other countries.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps confirmed the changes to Parliament on 24th January, saying that changes were being brought in ahead of the February half-term and will reduce testing costs for most families. The changes will also make the UK’s Covid-19 travel rules the most lenient in the world for vaccinated travellers. The UK will also recognised a vaccination certificates from a further 16 countries, including China and Mexico, bringing the total to 180 countries.

The CEO of the UK’s largest airport operator, Manchester Airports Group (MAG), has welcomed the latest changes to Covid-19 travel rules; Charlie Cornish said:

“This important announcement is excellent news for our sector’s recovery.

“This change will be welcomed by the millions of vaccinated people who are desperate to travel and will now be able to do so – restriction-free – for the first time in more than a year.

“The latest research shows travel restrictions do very little to stop the spread of variants like Omicron. Removing them will ensure the many cultural, social and economic benefits of international travel can be realised without any major impact on public health.

“With Britain reopened for business, we’re looking forward to helping people across the country get back to visiting exciting new places, finding fresh trading opportunities overseas, and travelling to see friends and loved ones again.”