People who have been fully vaccinated in the European Union or United States will be able to avoid requirements to quarantine or self-isolate when arriving in England, effective Aug. 2 at 4 a.m., U.K. government officials announced Wednesday. No decision immediately was announced regarding entry to Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
U.K. transport secretary Grant Shapps said the changes would apply to people fully vaccinated with a vaccine approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the European Medicines Agency or as part of the Swiss vaccination program. Arrivals still will need to do the usual pre-departure test before arrival and take a PCR test on the second day after arriving in England. Those vaccinated in the U.S. must provide proof of U.S. residency.
Shapps said in a statement: "We will of course continue to be guided by the latest scientific data but thanks to our world-leading domestic vaccination program, we're able to look to the future and start to rebuild key transatlantic routes with the U.S. while further cementing ties with our European neighbours."
The change came after British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Heathrow Airport reported the results of a trial that showed vaccination status can be checked quickly and easily away from the border to allow safe entry to the United Kingdom.
The U.S. this week announced it would maintain its restrictions on international inbound travelers.
Originally published by BTN Europe.