Overseas travel confirmed from 17 May
But coach destinations not currently on green list
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has announced that international leisure travel can begin again from 17 May 2021, as planned in the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown. However, strict border control measures will remain in place.
The relaxation of rules means people will be able to go on holidays to green listed countries from 17 May. At the time of writing, only 12 countries appear on the list and none of them are readily accessible by coach.
Those travelling to countries on the green list will still need to take a pre-departure Covid-19 test up to 72 hours before their return travel, and a single PCR test on or before day two of arrival into England. They are allowed to travel to the green-listed countries without needing to quarantine on return to England.
The DfT warns that many green-listed countries will continue to place restrictions on UK travellers, including quarantine measures.
DfT states people should not be travelling for leisure to countries listed as amber or red. Ten-day managed hotel quarantine requirements will remain in place for those permitted to return to England from ‘red’ countries, and quarantine at home alongside stringent testing will be required for those returning from ‘amber’ destinations.
The lists are to be reviewed every three weeks.
Countries will decide whether they require proof of Covid vaccination for entry, and it is the traveller’s responsibility to check individual requirements. If needed, people in England who have both vaccine doses will be able to demonstrate their Covid vaccination status via the NHS app from 17 May.
Travel trade association UKinbound noted the sparsity of countries on the green list and notable absence of much of Europe. Read the organisation’s response to the announcement here.
The green list of countries can be found here.