International travelers will be required to present a negative COVID-19 test to enter England starting this Friday, January 15. The same applies to the United States, which plans to introduce this measure from January 26, 2021.
COVID-19 Testing
A negative test is required for entry to England starting Jan. 15
Starting this Friday, January 15, 2021, a negative COVID-19 test will be mandatory for entry into England. Transport Minister Robert Courts said, “Globally and nationally, we are seeing a significant increase in coronavirus cases, including the emergence of new strains of interest. It is therefore imperative that we ensure we are doing all we can to protect travel, reduce the risk of imported infections, including new variants, and protect our NHS while the national blockade and vaccines take effect.”
Passengers must get tested within 72 hours of departure, whether traveling by plane, train, or ferry, and provide proof. Passengers who do not comply with this new measure will face a fine of at least £500. Upon arrival, passengers must either be isolated for 10 days or opt for the release test program (which allows them to leave quarantine from the fifth day on the condition of a new negative test). FYI: A negative coronavirus test will also be required for entry into Scotland and Wales, although no date has been announced at this time.
A negative test is required for entry into the United States starting Jan. 26
As in the case of England, U.S. authorities announced on Tuesday, Jan. 12, the requirement of a negative test for travelers arriving in the territory. This new measure is scheduled to take effect on Jan. 26. Similarly, testing must be done within three days before departure.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reiterated the importance of testing three to five days after arrival, as well as the importance of isolation for seven days. According to CDC Director Robert Redfield, “Testing does not eliminate the risks, but in combination with a period of home quarantine and daily precautions such as wearing a mask and social distancing, it can make travel safer.”
References
https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/international-travel-update-11-january-2021
