Travel Traffic Light System
Strict rules on testing and quarantine are in place based on the Traffic Light System as set out by the UK government classifying countries as Green, Amber or Red. You will need to follow different regulations, depending on which country you are returning from. Find out more about the Travel Traffic Light System here.
|
Green Country |
Amber Country |
Red List Country |
Return to the UK Test |
Rapid Antigen |
Rapid Antigen |
Rapid Antigen |
Passenger Locator Form |
Required | Required | Required |
Quarantine |
Not Required |
10 days at home |
10 days at hotel |
PCR Testing |
On or before day 2 after return to the UK |
On or before day 2 and on day 8 after return to the UK |
On or before day 2 and on day 8 after return to the UK |
Test-to-Release |
Not Required |
PCR On Day 5 |
Not Allowed for Red List |
Important Notes:
PCR Test Unique Reference Numbers and Passenger Locator Forms
- PCR Tests should be purchase before you travel, and test Unique Reference Numbers recorded on the Passenger Locator Form before entry to into the United Kingdom.
Test-to-Release
Test-to-Release is a scheme set up by the UK government (England only) to allow you to be released early from quarantine at a full 5 days after returning to the UK instead of the 10 days currently required for Amber Listed countries according to the government’s Travel Traffic Light System.
It requires a PCR test on day 5 and is optional. You will still need to take the compulsory day 2 and day 8 PCR tests.
You need to book your test before travel and enter details of your test provider (e.g. Randox) on your Passenger Locator form.
Please Note: Early release from quarantine only applies if test result is negative.
This is not suitable for those returning from a Red list country or for those returning to Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
Hotel Quarantine – Red List Countries
The quarantine hotel must be booked before you leave the UK for your destination as it must be recorded on your Passenger locator form.