PCR within 2 days of arrival into UK
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Mar 2020
Posts: 47
PCR within 2 days of arrival into UK
I understand the UK government are going to impose a PCR test within 2 days of arrival into the UK due to the new strain.
Does anyone know when this comes into affect exactly? I’m travelling from EWR to LHR this Thursday
Does anyone know when this comes into affect exactly? I’m travelling from EWR to LHR this Thursday
#2
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It isn't known yet - although it is expected to take effect this week. Keep an eye on the UK arrivals thread on the coronavirus board for the latest updates.
#3
Join Date: May 2009
Location: LON
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It hasn't been specified, though from this article it quotes the UK Govt. as saying "from next week" (https://www.euronews.com/travel/2021...ariant-concern)
Usually they put in place 2 days from the announcement until the new rules take effect. I would safely assume you'd need a PCR test if you are coming on Thursday.
Usually they put in place 2 days from the announcement until the new rules take effect. I would safely assume you'd need a PCR test if you are coming on Thursday.
#4
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: YUL
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It hasn't been specified, though from this article it quotes the UK Govt. as saying "from next week" (https://www.euronews.com/travel/2021...ariant-concern)
Usually they put in place 2 days from the announcement until the new rules take effect. I would safely assume you'd need a PCR test if you are coming on Thursday.
Usually they put in place 2 days from the announcement until the new rules take effect. I would safely assume you'd need a PCR test if you are coming on Thursday.
#5
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#6
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#7
Join Date: Mar 2009
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Just wait till Monday to see the impact on BA share price. The wave of cancellations beginning now be a tsunami by Monday. Weekend trips and near Europe jaunts thrown into chaos. In my own case a 2 day Christmas market trip now requires at least 4 days leave. This despite being tripled jabbed. It’s insane!
#8
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well with no date mentioned the assumption has to be its more or less immediate
he can't come on TV and say ALL arrivals require a PCR test and then on Mondy say it won't start for a week
I just cancelled all my flights for a Wednesday arrival based on it starting more or less immediately
I will not be chuffed if they now say "from Dec 6th"
he can't come on TV and say ALL arrivals require a PCR test and then on Mondy say it won't start for a week
I just cancelled all my flights for a Wednesday arrival based on it starting more or less immediately
I will not be chuffed if they now say "from Dec 6th"
#9
Original Poster
Join Date: Mar 2020
Posts: 47
It seems like my trip to Paris will have to be cancelled.
#10
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Surrey
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I arrive on 29th and the onsite tests at Heathrow are filling up fast for the day 0 - 2 fully vaccinated PCR test - not much availability at T5 - but plenty at T4 long stay car park. I have booked one to be safe as results guaranteed by 10pm next day and not having to self isolate beyond Tuesday is appealing. However, already submitted passenger locator form with antigen test - so clarity would be nice!
#11
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Looks like from next week, so possibly Monday but no earlier
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/p...-november-2021
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/p...-november-2021
Targeted measures will be introduced from next week as a precaution to slow down the spread of the variant while we gather more information. These are:
- All international arrivals must take a Day 2 PCR test and self-isolate until they receive a negative result.
- All contacts of suspected Omicron cases must self-isolate, regardless of their vaccination status. They will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace.
- Face coverings will be made compulsory in shops and on public transport from next week. All hospitality settings will be exempt.
#12
Original Poster
Join Date: Mar 2020
Posts: 47
I arrive on 29th and the onsite tests at Heathrow are filling up fast for the day 0 - 2 fully vaccinated PCR test - not much availability at T5 - but plenty at T4 long stay car park. I have booked one to be safe as results guaranteed by 10pm next day and not having to self isolate beyond Tuesday is appealing. However, already submitted passenger locator form with antigen test - so clarity would be nice!
Which test did you book? Do you mind sharing the link?
#13
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Surrey
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[QUOTE=HP28;33763762]Which test did you book? Do you mind sharing the link?
https://www.expresstest.co.uk/book-a...activeFilter=1
it is the day 0 - 2 PCR test - £69
https://www.expresstest.co.uk/book-a...activeFilter=1
it is the day 0 - 2 PCR test - £69
#14
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: London
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Unless I am mistaken, the new rule only differs in that you need to stay in quarantine until you get the negative test, whereas previously you could roam. Is that right? I imagine the PLF will stay the same.
#15
Join Date: Apr 2007
Location: Anywhere
Posts: 6,535
How is this realistically supposed to work?
Day 2 test may be taken anytime on Day 0 (arrival date) or Day 1 or Day 2.
So someone arrives on Day 0 can go about freely on that day. Likewise on Day 1. And finally on Day 2, travel to a place to do PCR test (likely using public transport) then back to home or hotel, before starting self isolation? Don't think Boris or Sajid have thought through the execution and practical realities.
Unless all incoming travellers are compelled to do on-site testing at the arrival airport (imagine the queues at numerous UK airports, and the resultant logistics nightmare!) and put into isolation until results come back negative, this isn't going to achieve the intended outcomes of isolating potential positive passengers.
Day 2 test may be taken anytime on Day 0 (arrival date) or Day 1 or Day 2.
So someone arrives on Day 0 can go about freely on that day. Likewise on Day 1. And finally on Day 2, travel to a place to do PCR test (likely using public transport) then back to home or hotel, before starting self isolation? Don't think Boris or Sajid have thought through the execution and practical realities.
Unless all incoming travellers are compelled to do on-site testing at the arrival airport (imagine the queues at numerous UK airports, and the resultant logistics nightmare!) and put into isolation until results come back negative, this isn't going to achieve the intended outcomes of isolating potential positive passengers.