International arrivals will have to present a negative Covid-19 test result to enter the UK.
In order to keep new strains of Covid-19 out of the UK, the government is set to implement tighter border controls. Beginning on Friday, January 15 at 4am, international travellers heading to the UK via plane, train, or ferry will be required to present a negative test certificate no more than 72 hours before departure in order to enter the country, with the exception of hauliers. Measures may also include a subsequent Covid test upon arrival, and the travel quarantine will remain in place.
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As it currently stands, tourists from all over the world can enter the UK freely including those from countries where Covid mutations are currently circulating, such as South Africa. A number of MPs have been calling for for tougher border restrictions in recent weeks, which should help to prohibit the spread of these more infectious strains.
Cabinet minister, Michael Gove, confirmed that government discussions over border controls are well underway. In an interview with LBC Radio last week, Gove said “We want to make sure that [our borders] are as safe as possible, so we are reviewing what the appropriate restrictions might be. It is making sure that we have the safest possible approach and that involves reviewing how our ports and airports work.” The government has since confirmed the new travel regulations, announcing today (January 12) the Friday commencement of the restrictions.
Several other countries are now adopting tighter restrictions including Greece, France and Germany, who have also made it compulsory for international travellers to present a negative Covid test before entering. Others have even gone a step further and have issued travel bans on countries where new Covid variants have been found.