New Quarantine Rules for Travelers to the UK

A significant change has been announced regarding the quarantine period for travelers arriving from most destinations to the UK, as well as for contacts of positive COVID-19 cases. Originally set at 14 days, the self-isolation period will now be reduced to enhance travel safety and encourage responsible travel practices.

Starting December 14, the self-isolation duration for travelers from countries not included on the travel corridor list will be shortened to 10 days in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Wales has already decreased its quarantine duration, following an earlier announcement by the Welsh government. Notably, these new guidelines will also apply to individuals currently self-isolating, including those who began their isolation prior to December 14.

This recent update was communicated through a collaborative statement from the UK’s four chief medical officers, following an evaluation of current evidence. They emphasized, “Self-isolation is essential to reducing the spread of COVID as it breaks the chains of transmission. After analyzing the evidence, we believe that we can safely reduce the self-isolation period from 14 days to 10 days. Those who test positive must continue to self-isolate for 10 days from the onset of symptoms or 10 days from receiving a positive test result if asymptomatic. We strongly encourage everyone to self-isolate when necessary, as this action can save lives.”

Moreover, a new “test and release” scheme will be implemented on December 15. This allows travelers arriving in England from high-risk countries to reduce their quarantine duration if they receive a negative COVID-19 test result. Under this scheme, travelers can self-isolate for five days and then take a single coronavirus test on the fifth day. The cost of the test is £100 (€132), and results are typically available within an hour.