UK to Lift All COVID-19 Entry Restrictions from the 18th... No More Pre- and Post-Arrival Tests

Airlines Gradually Lift Passenger Mask Mandate

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyunjung] The UK will lift all COVID-19 related entry restrictions starting from the 18th.

Grant Shapps, the UK Secretary of State for Transport, announced on the 14th (local time) that all COVID-19 entry restrictions, including testing requirements for unvaccinated travelers arriving in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, will be removed from 4 a.m. on the 18th, according to major foreign media such as the BBC.

Accordingly, even those who have not received two doses of the vaccine will no longer be required to undergo COVID-19 testing before or after entering the UK. Secretary Shapps said this change is possible thanks to the vaccination policy and that travel has become freer during the Easter holidays in April.

He added, "The UK is leading the world in removing all remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions."

The UK government is preparing an emergency plan in case of the emergence of new variants, which is expected to be announced before the holidays.

Kate Nicholls, CEO of UKHospitality, said regarding the lifting of these restrictions, "This will provide a substantial boost to consumer confidence" and "It is a clear signal that the UK is open to overseas visitors." However, she added, "The major concern remains the uncertain situation in Ukraine."

Additionally, airlines such as Flydro, British Airways, and Virgin Atlantic have also announced that they will gradually remove the mask-wearing mandate for passengers during travel.

Meanwhile, the number of COVID-19 cases in the UK has been on the rise recently. The total number of new cases over the past seven days was approximately 444,000, a 48% increase compared to the previous seven days.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.