COVID-19: Are you ready to start travelling again? If so, watch out for the Traffic light system

This means that as of 17 May 2021 the “Stay in the UK” regulation have ceased and international travel have been allowed to restart.

The traffic light system will allow the public to understand COVID-19 requirements when travelling to the UK. The Government recommend that people should not be travelling to amber or red countries.

Which Countries are on the Green List?

If a country falls under the Green list[1], individuals returning to England from one of the countries on the list will not be required to quarantine or self-isolate on arrival.

Although the UK Government deems the countries above as safe for travel for the purpose of tourism and leisure, it is important to note that the local government of each respective country will have different rules in place.

Which Countries are on the Amber List?

The Government advises against travelling for leisure purposes to countries on the Amber list[2]. Individuals flying from one of the countries on this list will be required to complete a passenger locator form, provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test to travel to England, and also book and pay for separate COVID-19 tests on Day 2 and Day 8 upon arrival.

Which Countries are on the Red List?

The Government advises against travelling for leisure purposes to countries on  the Red list[3]. Individuals that have been in a country on this list in the last 10 days will only be allowed to travel to the UK if they are British or Irish Nationals, or have residence rights in the UK.

Before travelling to England, individuals must complete a passenger locator form, provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test, and book and pay for separate COVID-19 tests on Day 2 and Day 8 upon arrival in addition to booking and staying in a government-approved quarantine hotel for 10 full days upon their return to the UK..

When Will the Next Update be?

As the last step in the Government’s “Roadmap out of lockdown” is set “not before 21 June”, it is expected that the countries divided into traffic system will be reviewed and updated before this date. Watch this space!

Please note that the information in this blog is current at the date and time of posting. The situation regarding policy and guidance based on the COVID-19 pandemic is subject to change at short notice. We shall be monitoring all aspects of UK immigration which may be impacted by the coronavirus closely, so please do keep updated with further blogs and articles which we will be posting on Gherson, alternatively, follow us on Twitter to stay up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication, it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please don’t hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

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