I’ve recently returned from travel from USA so shall also share some experience of testing with others. If you’re travelling you must be prepared beforehand and do check the latest requirements on the Gov.UK site
Covid Pass (essential)
As OM has done I downloaded a Covid Pass, but chose the one for travel. All a straightforward process using the App ( have your NHS number handy). You will definitely need your Covid Pass for clearing airline checkout (where you can show a hard copy) or for online check in where you scan the QR code (the square box with all the black & white pattern)
Testing (essential)
Get a lateral flow test 72 hours before travel out of UK. Keep a hard copy of the test certificate (or it can be scanned for online check in). At the time of my travel this was acceptable, but check the Gov Uk site for any changes.
As I was about to return to the UK, the arrangements for testing changed for a lateral flow tests to return here. These are no longer acceptable for the required test within 2 days of arriving back in the UK so you have to get a PCR test. You have to book this before returning to the UK. You can order online for the home test kit to be delivered to your home for when you arrive back in the UK.
Passenger Locator Form - essential
When you book your PCR test you’ll be given a booking code which you need for your Passenger Locator Form (from the Gov.Uk site - form to be completed no earlier than 48 hours before your return) You must have this to be allowed to return to the UK.
When I was doing this I found it very confusing. But believe me you will need each of these things and you’ll need proof of having done them. Don’t rely on digital copies either, also take hard copies. And take a change of masks for the flight.
Viv.
Covid Pass (essential)
As OM has done I downloaded a Covid Pass, but chose the one for travel. All a straightforward process using the App ( have your NHS number handy). You will definitely need your Covid Pass for clearing airline checkout (where you can show a hard copy) or for online check in where you scan the QR code (the square box with all the black & white pattern)
Testing (essential)
Get a lateral flow test 72 hours before travel out of UK. Keep a hard copy of the test certificate (or it can be scanned for online check in). At the time of my travel this was acceptable, but check the Gov Uk site for any changes.
As I was about to return to the UK, the arrangements for testing changed for a lateral flow tests to return here. These are no longer acceptable for the required test within 2 days of arriving back in the UK so you have to get a PCR test. You have to book this before returning to the UK. You can order online for the home test kit to be delivered to your home for when you arrive back in the UK.
Passenger Locator Form - essential
When you book your PCR test you’ll be given a booking code which you need for your Passenger Locator Form (from the Gov.Uk site - form to be completed no earlier than 48 hours before your return) You must have this to be allowed to return to the UK.
When I was doing this I found it very confusing. But believe me you will need each of these things and you’ll need proof of having done them. Don’t rely on digital copies either, also take hard copies. And take a change of masks for the flight.
Viv.
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