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Vaccination record

As foreign travel rules ease, what is required to enter the UK?

With a range of proofs needed, the market for fake Covid test and vaccination certificates is booming

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When the UK reopens for foreign travel on Monday, a number of requirements for entry to the UK will be in force, involving a number of different types of tests and certificates.

The black market for pandemic-related products, including fake negative Covid tests and fake vaccination certificates, is booming.

Border officials have warned that an estimated 100 fake negative Covid tests were being caught each day even before the borders are opened further for foreign travel.

What is required to enter the UK?

The details are to be confirmed, but it’s expected that up to three polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests will be required: one before entry showing a negative result, and up to two afterwards, depending on the country from which a traveller has arrived.

PCR tests cost an average of £120 a test for each person.

What about other countries?

Countries have differing requirements, but some, including EU states, have said a requirement involving vaccination will be required to enter them.

What do you need certificates for in the UK?

To enter the UK, certificates are needed to provide evidence of a negative Covid-19 test. The test result must be in either English, French or Spanish.

Depending on the country of origin, up to two more tests could be required, both of which would need a certificate to prove a negative result.

What about vaccination?

The government has suggested it will incorporate a vaccination status into the existing NHS Covid app.

However, there are currently no requirements to prove vaccination status when entering the UK. The level of vaccination progress will be taken into account when determining how countries should be classified.

What checks are there?

Border Force officers at airports and ports are responsible for checking the certificates, although no specific training is provided.

Some Border Force officers said the certificates can be easy to spot as they often have spelling mistakes or punctuation errors. But as there is no single template for a negative test, it can be challenging.

What is the scale of the use of fakes?

Border Force staff have said that by their nature it is challenging to estimate the true scale of the use of fake certificates. However, union officials have said that at least 100 fake certificates are caught each day – equal to thousands a month.

Cybersecurity researchers said there were more than 1,200 vendors on the dark web offering fake certificates, vaccines, treatment drugs and protective equipment. Individual channels on encrypted messaging apps have more than 1,000 subscribers.

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Introduction

Britain and Northern Ireland currently have no official COVID-19 restrictions in place, however there is still guidance on what to do should you catch coronavirus while here on holiday. For more information, please check the official government websites using the links below.

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Covid international travel rules

Testing and quarantine requirements have been progressively removed since the start of 2022.

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Are there any rules for international travel to the UK?

Testing and quarantine requirements have been progressively removed since the start of 2022. Testing and quarantine requirements were removed for fully vaccinated individuals and under 18s on 11 February, and then for unvaccinated individuals on 18 March, along with passenger locator forms for all arrivals. [1] Remaining restrictions were also removed in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. [2]

International travel for leisure in England had first resumed in May 2021. Initially countries were given a red, amber, or green rating with different rules for testing and quarantining on return.

The government simplified this system in October 2021, with only the red list remaining, and the red list was cleared of all countries on 1 November. In late November and early December 2021, some countries were added again, amid concerns about the Omicron variant. These countries were removed again as it became clear that Omicron was circulating widely within the UK. [3]

Arrivals from red list countries were required to take a pre-departure test and book a 10-day stay in a managed quarantine hotel with day 2 and day 8 tests, regardless of vaccination status. For countries not on the red list, arrival requirements depended on vaccination status, with vaccinated travellers subject to fewer requirements than unvaccinated arrivals by the end of 2021.  

The government has stated that it has contingency plans in place for a new variant but these have not been set out in detail. [4]

Is this in line with what other countries are doing?

A small number of countries have also removed all travel restrictions – including Ireland, Iceland, Norway. But many still have some entry requirements, particularly when it comes to testing. Others are also still restricting access for unvaccinated individuals or, in a few cases, for most non-residents. [5]

How do Covid passports for travel work?

Although travel to the UK is no longer dependent on vaccination status, many countries still require proof of vaccination.

A Covid passport for travel is incorporated into the existing NHS app (which is different from the NHS Covid-19 contact tracing app). [6] The app is also available for Welsh residents, while Northern Ireland and Scotland have their own apps. Fully vaccinated children aged 12 to 15 can now request an NHS Covid pass letter for travel. From 3 February 2022 children aged 13 and over will be able to access a Covid pass for travel through the app, and those 12 and over will be able to request a PDF online. [7]

What are the potential challenges ahead?

Since the spread of the Delta variant in spring 2021, with questions about whether India should have been added to the red list sooner, the government has faced a tricky balance between the pressure to open up travel and the need for continued caution about Covid transmission and the spread of new variants.

All travel restrictions when entering the UK have now been removed. However, most other countries still retain some restrictions, meaning that travel from the UK is still affected.

The major question remaining is what the government will do if a new variant emerges. It has said that contingency plans are in place to respond to any future variants but has not set out in detail what those plans would mean for travel. [8]

  • Department for Transport and Department of Health and Social Care, Travel to England from another country during coronavirus (COVID-19), 22 June 2021, www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-to-england-from-another-country-during-coronavirus-covid-19 ; Department for Transport, Department of Health and Social Care, The Rt Hon Sajid Javid MP, and The Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP, All COVID-19 travel restrictions removed in the UK, 14 March 2022, www.gov.uk/government/news/all-covid-19-travel-restrictions-removed-in-the-uk
  • Department for Transport and Department of Health and Social Care, Travel to England from another country during coronavirus (COVID-19), 22 June 2021, www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-to-england-from-another-country-during-coronavirus-covid-19 ; Scottish Government, Coronavirus (COVID-19): international travel, www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-international-travel-quarantine ; Welsh Government, International travel to and from Wales: coronavirus, 4 October 2021, https://gov.wales/rules-international-travel-and-wales-coronavirus ; NI Direct Government Services, Coronavirus (COVID-19): travel advice, www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-travel-advice
  • Department for Transport, Department of Health and Social Care, The Rt Hon Sajid Javid MP, and The Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP, Travel Update: 47 countries and territories removed from red list, 7 October 2021, www.gov.uk/government/news/travel-update-47-countries-and-territories-removed-from-red-list ; Department for Transport and Department of Health and Social Care, Travel to England from another country during coronavirus (COVID-19), 22 June 2021, www.gov.uk/guidance/red-list-of-countries-and-territories
  • BBC News, Covid travel restrictions have ended in the UK, 18 March 2022, www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-60789979
  • GOV.UK, Foreign travel advice,  www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
  • The app is available to individuals over 16 who are registered with a GP surgery in England. Individuals who cannot access the app can get a paper certificate by calling the NHS 119 helpline after 17 May. Certificates will be available from five days after a second vaccine dose: see Department of Health and Social Care, Using your NHS COVID Pass for travel abroad and at venues and settings in England, 7 May 2021, www.gov.uk/guidance/demonstrating-your-covid-19-vaccination-status-when-travelling-abroad
  • Welsh Government, Get your NHS COVID Pass,  https://gov.wales/nhs-covid-pass-prove-your-vaccination-status#section-70614 ; NI Direct Government Services, Apply for a Travel COVID vaccination certificate,  www.nidirect.gov.uk/services/coronavirus-covid-19-covid-certificate-ni-residents ; www.nhsinform.scot/covid-19-vaccine/after-your-vaccine/get-a-record-of-your-coronavirus-covid-19-vaccination-status ; www.gov.uk/guidance/nhs-covid-pass#children
  • BBC News, Covid travel restrictions have ended in the UK, 18 March 2022,  www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-60789979

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Available travel vaccines

The following vaccinations are available for people travelling abroad.

Cholera vaccination

Vaccination against  cholera isn't routinely needed for most travellers.

But in some cases it may be recommended for aid workers and people likely to have limited access to medical services – for example, people working in refugee camps or after natural disasters.

Most cases of cholera are confined to regions of the world with poor sanitation and water hygiene, such as parts of:

  • South America

The vaccine is usually given as a drink in 2 separate doses, taken 1 to 6 weeks apart.

Children aged 2 to 6 years old should have a third dose taken 1 to 6 weeks after the second dose.

You should make sure you have the final dose of this vaccine at least a week before you travel.

A single booster dose or full revaccination is usually recommended if you have previously been vaccinated against cholera and you're planning to travel to an area where the infection is common.

Diphtheria vaccination

A combined vaccination that protects against diphtheria , polio and tetanus is routinely given to all children in the UK.

You should make sure you and your children are up-to-date with your routine vaccinations before travelling.

Further booster doses are usually only recommended if you're going to visit parts of the world where diphtheria is widespread and your last vaccination dose was more than 10 years ago.

Diphtheria is more common in parts of the world where fewer people are vaccinated, such as:

  • Central and Southeast Asia
  • Eastern Europe

Additional doses of the vaccination are given in a single 3-in-1 Td/IPV (tetanus, diphtheria and polio) injection.

Hepatitis A vaccination

Vaccination against  hepatitis A is recommended if you're travelling to countries where there are poor levels of sanitation and hygiene, and hepatitis A is common.

Ask your GP, pharmacy or travel clinic if you should have the hepatitis A vaccine if you're travelling to:

  • Sub-Saharan and North Africa
  • the Middle East
  • South and Central America

The vaccination against hepatitis A is usually given as a single initial injection, with a second dose 6 to 12 months later. Two doses should protect you for at least 25 years.

You should preferably have the initial dose at least 2 weeks before you leave, although it can be given up to the day of your departure if needed.

Jabs that offer combined protection against hepatitis A and hepatitis B or typhoid are also available if you're likely to also be at risk of these conditions.

Hepatitis B vaccination

Vaccination against  hepatitis B is recommended if you're travelling in parts of the world where hepatitis B is common, especially if you'll be doing activities that increase your risk of developing the infection.

Hepatitis B is spread through blood and body fluids. Things like having sex, injecting drugs or playing contact sports on your travels can increase your risk.

Anyone travelling for long periods or who's likely to need medical care while abroad is also at increased risk.

Hepatitis B is found worldwide, but it's more common in parts of:

  • Sub-Saharan Africa
  • Southern and Eastern Europe

The hepatitis B vaccination generally involves a course of 3 injections. Depending on how quickly you need protection, these may be spread over a period as long as 6 months or as short as 3 weeks.

A combined hepatitis A and hepatitis B jab is also available if you're likely to be at risk of both these conditions while travelling.

Japanese encephalitis vaccination

Vaccination against  Japanese encephalitis  is usually recommended if you're planning a long stay (usually at least a month) in a country where you could get the condition.

It's particularly important if:

  • you're visiting during the rainy season or there's a year-round risk because of a tropical climate
  • you're going to visit rural areas, such as rice fields or marshlands
  • you'll be taking part in any activities that may increase your risk of becoming infected, such as cycling or camping

Japanese encephalitis is found throughout Asia and beyond. The area it's found in stretches from the western Pacific islands in the east, across to the borders of Pakistan in the west.

It's found as far north as Northeastern China and as far south as the islands of the Torres Strait and Cape York in Northeastern Australia.

Despite its name, Japanese encephalitis is now relatively rare in Japan because of mass immunisation programmes.

Find out more about risk areas on the Travel Health Pro website

Vaccination against Japanese encephalitis usually consists of 2 injections, with the second dose given 28 days after the first.

Ideally, you need to have the second dose a week before you leave.

Meningococcal meningitis vaccination

Vaccination against some types of meningococcal meningitis  is usually recommended if you're travelling to areas at risk and your planned activities put you at higher risk – for example, if you're a long-term traveller who has close contact with the local population.

High-risk areas for meningococcal meningitis include:

  • parts of Africa
  • Saudi Arabia during the mass gatherings of Hajj or Umrah

All travellers to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj or Umrah pilgrimages are required to show proof of vaccination.

If travelling to a high-risk area, you should be vaccinated against meningococcal meningitis with a MenACWY vaccine , also known as the quadrivalent meningococcal meningitis vaccine.

This is a single injection that should be given 2 to 3 weeks before you travel. Babies under a year old need 2 injections.

You should have the MenACWY vaccine before travelling to high-risk areas, even if you had the  meningitis C vaccine as a child.

Read more about the  meningococcal meningitis vaccines .

Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination

The MMR vaccine that protects against measles ,  mumps and  rubella is routinely given to all children in the UK. 

You should make sure you and your children are up-to-date with routine vaccinations, including MMR, before travelling.

If you haven't been fully vaccinated against these conditions or you're not already immune, you should ask about MMR vaccination before you travel.

The MMR vaccine is given as 2 injections. These are usually given when a child is 3 years and 4 months old.

But if vaccination has been missed previously, adults can have the doses 1 month apart, and children can have them 3 months apart if necessary.

Read more about the MMR vaccine .

Polio vaccination

A combined vaccination that protects against diphtheria,  polio and tetanus is routinely given to all children in the UK.

Further booster doses are usually only recommended if you're going to visit parts of the world where polio is, or has recently been, present and your last vaccination dose was more than 10 years ago.

Currently the condition is most common in Pakistan and Afghanistan, but it's also a risk in other regions of the world.

Read more about the  Td/IPV (3-in-1) vaccine .

Rabies vaccination

Vaccination against rabies is advised if you're travelling to an area where you could get rabies, particularly if:

  • you're staying for a month or more
  • there's unlikely to be quick access to appropriate medical care
  • you plan to do activities that could put you at increased risk of exposure to rabies, such as cycling or running

Rabies can be found in many parts of the world. GOV.UK provides a detailed list of countries that have rabies in domestic animals or wildlife .

Vaccination involves a course of 3 injections before you travel, usually given over a period of 28 days.

If you're bitten, licked or scratched by an animal in a country where rabies is a problem, further doses of rabies vaccine (with or without a special anti-rabies injection given around the wound) may be required as emergency treatment.

Find out more about the rabies vaccine

GOV.UK: Rabies risks for travellers

Tetanus vaccination

A combined vaccination that protects against diphtheria, polio and tetanus is routinely given to all children in the UK.

Further booster doses are usually only recommended if:

  • you're travelling to areas where access to medical services is likely to be limited and your last vaccination dose was more than 10 years ago
  • you've not had two booster doses

Read more about the Td/IPV (3-in-1) vaccine .

Tick-borne encephalitis vaccination

Vaccination against  tick-borne encephalitis (TBE)  is usually recommended for anyone who plans to live or work in a high-risk area, or hike and camp in these areas during late spring or summer.

The ticks that cause TBE are mainly found in forested areas of central, eastern and northern Europe, although at-risk areas also include eastern Russia and some countries in east Asia, including some regions of China and Japan.

The vaccination requires a course of 3 injections for full protection. The second dose is given 1 to 3 months after the first and provides immunity for about a year.

A third dose, given 5 to 12 months after the second, provides immunity for up to 3 years.

The course can sometimes be accelerated if necessary. This involves 2 doses being given 2 weeks apart.

Booster doses of the vaccine are recommended every 3 years, if necessary.

Tuberculosis (TB) vaccination

The BCG vaccine (which stands for Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccine) protects against tuberculosis , which is also known as TB.

The BCG vaccine isn't given as part of the routine NHS vaccination schedule. It's given on the NHS only when a child or adult is thought to have an increased risk of coming into contact with TB.

When preparing for travel abroad, the BCG vaccine is recommended for any unvaccinated people under 16 who'll be living or working with friends, family or local people for more than 3 months in a country where TB is common or the risk of multi-drug resistant TB is high.

The BCG vaccine is given as a single injection.

Areas of the world where the risk of TB is high enough to recommend BCG vaccination for previously unvaccinated travellers include:

  • parts of South and Southeast Asia

Read more about the BCG vaccine .

Typhoid vaccination

Vaccination against typhoid fever is recommended if you're travelling to parts of the world where the condition is common, particularly if you'll: 

  • have frequent or prolonged exposure to conditions where sanitation and food hygiene are likely to be poor
  • be staying or working with local people

High-risk areas include:

  • parts of South and Central America

Two main vaccines are available for typhoid fever in the UK. One is given as a single injection, and the other is given as 3 capsules to take on alternate days.

It's also possible to have a combined hepatitis A and typhoid jab.

Ideally, the typhoid vaccine should be given at least 1 month before you travel, but it can be given closer to your travel date if necessary.

Booster vaccinations are recommended every 3 years if you continue to be at risk of infection.

Read more about the typhoid vaccine .

Yellow fever vaccination

Vaccination against yellow fever is advised if you're travelling to areas where there's a risk of getting yellow fever.

Some countries require a proof of vaccination certificate before they let you enter the country.

Yellow fever occurs in some areas of tropical Africa and Central and South America. More information about yellow fever and areas where it's found is available on Travel Health Pro .

A single dose of the yellow fever vaccine is thought to provide lifelong protection. For most people, a booster dose is no longer recommended.

You must have a yellow fever vaccination at least 10 days before you travel. You will also need to complete a yellow fever vaccination checklist to make sure you can have the vaccine.

Find out more about the yellow fever vaccination checklist on the Travel Health Pro website

You should be issued with an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis when you have the vaccine. This certificate is valid for life.

Some people cannot have the yellow fever vaccine.

Read more about the  yellow fever vaccine and who can have it .

When to get further advice

Speak to your GP before having any vaccinations if:

  • you're planning to get pregnant
  • you're pregnant
  • you're breastfeeding
  • you have an immune deficiency
  • you have any allergies

Page last reviewed: 16 March 2023 Next review due: 16 March 2026

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Travel Vaccines and Advice for United Kingdom

Passport Health offers a variety of options for travellers throughout the world.

People travelling to the United Kingdom will have a lot to see. England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland are some of the places to explore. Their activities will open the door to the history and culture of the United Kingdom.

England is filled with iconic landmarks for travellers to see. Scotland offers beautiful castles, hillsides, and wild animals. Wales has breathtaking landscapes from snow covered mountain peaks to an amazing coastline.

The United Kingdom is yours to discover. Whether you love nature, city life, or the history and culture, you’ll find what you’re looking for in the United Kingdom.

Do I Need Vaccines for the United Kingdom?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for United Kingdom. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for the United Kingdom: COVID-19 , hepatitis A , hepatitis B , rabies , meningitis , polio , measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) , chickenpox , shingles , pneumonia and influenza .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

  • COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
  • Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers
  • Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Accelerated schedule available
  • Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
  • Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
  • TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) – Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
  • Chickenpox – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
  • Shingles – Direct Contact – Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
  • Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
  • Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.
  • Meningitis – Airborne & Direct Contact – Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.
  • Polio – Food & Water – Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.

See the tables below for more information:

As a developed country, the United Kingdom has few health risks. Follow the same precautions you would in the United States to healthy throughout your trip.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now .

Does the United Kingdom Have COVID-19 Travel Restrictions?

Though travel restrictions are not in place for the UK, all arriving travellers must quarantine for 14-days upon arrival. Several airports have suspended some operations during the pandemic.

All travellers must complete a ‘Public Health Passenger Locator Form’ and provide it to immigration on arrival. Freight workers, medical professionals travelling to help with the fight against coronavirus are exempt from the quarantine requirement. Travellers arriving from Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man are also exempt.

While masks are not required in public, they are highly recommended. Taxis, restaurants and others may deny service if a mask is not worn.

Other infections are still present in the region like rabies or travellers’ diarrhea. Make sure you stay protected with a visit to Passport Health. Call or book online now.

Do I Need a Passport or Visa for the United Kingdom?

A passport which is valid for at least the expected duration of stay is required to enter the UK. This also applies to those travelling to Northern Ireland from other parts of the UK. A tourist visa is not required for stays under 6 months. A business visa or work permit is required, even for those planning to do part time or unpaid work.

Sources: Embassy of the United Kingdom and Canadian Travel and Tourism

Due to the United Kingdom leaving the European Union, entry and exit policy may change. Be sure to check this page to see if requirements have been updated.

Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.

What Is the Climate like in the United Kingdom?

The climate in the United Kingdom is temperament with rainfall year round. Depending on the season, the temperature varies.

The winds come from the southwest and the mild and wet weather comes from the Atlantic Ocean. Eastern parts of the UK are generally drier as they are sheltered from the winds.

The currents from the Atlantic Ocean are warmed up by the Gulf Stream. Because this occurs, the winters are mild in the west where the winters are wet. Snowfall happens in the winter and early spring. The summer season is warmest in the southeast of England and coolest in the North.

How Safe Is the United Kingdom?

Travellers should be aware of their surroundings in public places. It’s important to listen to the rules of the authorities and pay attention to the media and other local sources. Authorities have increased in public places for safety reasons.

Pick-pocketing and petty theft can happen in tourist areas. Take precautions to avoid losing important items.

Travellers should also be aware of the level of terrorist threat by the United Kingdom Security Service.

There have also been some terrorist threats in Northern Ireland. Religious violence and dissent republican activity have been going on. Security forces and banks have been targeted. Their annual parades are another potential threat to terrorist attacks during the seasons of April to August.

The Eagle and Child

There are so many places to see while in the United Kingdom. If you’re looking to relax and have a good drink at a place of history, The Eagle and Child is where you want to be. This pub is nicknamed the Bird and the Baby and is located at St. Giles Street in Oxford, England.

It is famous for the associating with the Inkling’s Writers Group, which included J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis and other authors, professors, and thinkers. It was here that some of these famous authors discussed the stories they were writing.

The pub has unique character that you won’t find anywhere else. It shows off pictures and prints of famous books on the walls of their establishment. They have an eclectic variety of ales and great pub food that is served with British hospitality.

What Should I Take to the United Kingdom?

When you travel to the United Kingdom, there are a few things you should take with you on your trip.

  • Travellers’ Diarrhea Kit — While it may not seem like it, this single item can be a lifesaver. Up to 70 percent of travellers will have this symptom, including travellers to developed countries.
  • Rain Gear — Because of the large amount of rainfall consider bringing some kind of rain gear. Whether it’s an umbrella, poncho or waterproof jacket, you’ll be happy you have it.
  • Pack for Health and Safety — You should pack what you know you’ll need to stay healthy in the UK. Medications and supplies are just a few things you should think about taking with you. You might also need supplies to prevent illness or injury, and a first aid kit.

Canadian Embassy in the United Kingdom

If you find yourself in need of help while travelling in the United Kingdom, there is a Canadian Embassy in the capital city of London.

High Commission of Canada in the United Kingdom Canada House, Trafalgar Square, London, SW1Y 5BJ, England, United Kingdom Telephone: +44 (0) 207 004 6000

Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start travelling safely today!

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On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for the United Kingdom? Do I Need a Passport or Visa for the United Kingdom? What Is the Climate like in the United Kingdom? How Safe Is the United Kingdom? The Eagle and Child What Should I Take to the United Kingdom? Canadian Embassy in the United Kingdom

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United Kingdom Vaccination Requirements | Do I need a vaccine to travel to the United Kingdom?

Please note that Covid-19 restrictions for travelers from China will be lifted. Also, there is no need for any covid document anymore for any passenger.

We can confirm that UK health authorities aren’t requesting a Covid vaccine at the moment. Still, you need to check what entry requirements are now in place due to the pandemic. iVisa.com can help you with the mandatory document known as the UK Passenger Locator Form . We can provide an effortless process that will save you tons of time!

Learn more about this question United Kingdom Vaccination Requirements | Do I need a vaccine to travel to the United Kingdom? iVisa.com is ready to support you!

Fill me in

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need a vaccine to travel to the united kingdom.

COVID vaccination certificates are not mandatory to enter the United Kingdom, however, fully vaccinated travelers will not have to quarantine or take a COVID test before travel (as of 11th February).

  • Approved vaccines are Covaxin, Moderna, Janssen, Novavax, AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Sinopharm, Sinovac. AstraZeneca Covishield, AstraZeneca Vaxzevria and Moderna Takeda also qualify as approved vaccines.
  • Travelers must have had a complete course of an approved vaccine at least 14 days before arriving in England.
  • Please note: To qualify as fully vaccinated, travelers must be vaccinated under an approved vaccination program.

Since information may change quickly, we advise you to follow up on the latest United Kingdom travel updates and/or contact your local embassy.

We can tell you all the answers about this question United Kingdom Vaccination Requirements | Do I need a vaccine to travel to the United Kingdom?

Do I need to take a COVID-19 test before traveling to the United Kingdom?

  • COVID test prior to arrival - Vaccinated travelers: There are no testing requirements for fully vaccinated travelers.
  • COVID test prior to arrival - Unvaccinated travelers: PCR or antigen within 48 hours of travel.
  • COVID test after arrival- Unvaccinated travelers: Pre-booked PCR test on or before day 2
  • COVID test exemptions- vaccinated and unvaccinated: Children aged 11 and under and travelers arriving from Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, the Isle of Man, Jersey or Guernsey, Falkland Islands, St Helena or Ascension, and Ukraine don't need a COVID-19 test to enter. Travelers moving between Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and England are also exempt from testing requirements.

Do I need to quarantine upon arrival in the United Kingdom?

  • Quarantine requirements: There are no quarantine requirements.

What is the validity of the health document?

The UK Passenger Locator Form is valid for 90 days and only has a single entry.

Remember to get the required vaccines before entering the UK, such as hepatitis and rabies vaccines. Keep checking the answers to this question United Kingdom Vaccination Requirements | Do I need a vaccine to travel to the United Kingdom?

*Please note that there is no need to complete a UK passenger locator form before you travel.

What information do I need?

Make sure to have these three requirements:

  • A valid passport - Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months.
  • An email address - We will communicate electronically.
  • A payment method - Pay for the service with a credit/debit card.

Don’t forget, you must have hepatitis and rabies vaccines before you plan your trip to the UK. We can help you with the answers to this question United Kingdom Vaccination Requirements | Do I need a vaccine to travel to the United Kingdom?

What are the processing times and fees?

  • Standard processing time : -
  • Rush processing time : -
  • Super Rush processing time : -

Our experts can explain more about the United Kingdom Vaccination Requirements | Do I need a vaccine to travel to the United Kingdom?

How can I apply?

  • Complete the application form. Choose a processing time (Standard, Rush, or Super Rush) that fits your needs.
  • Double-check your details and select a payment option, using a credit/debit card.
  • Attach any required documents and submit your application!

Receive the health document in your email inbox and display it as soon as you land in the UK.

Make sure to have hepatitis and rabies vaccines before your trip. It will keep you safe during your time in the UK. iVisa.com has all the details!

Is iVisa.com trustworthy?

Yes! We have been helping travelers for years with all types of travel documentation. We’re sure of what you need.

I have some doubts. Who should I contact?

Connect with our customer support agents who are available day and night. We can solve all your questions about the United Kingdom Vaccination Requirements | Do I need a vaccine to travel to the United Kingdom?

iVisa.com Recommends

The United Kingdom has so many sites to explore! Start with London, England’s capital. Visit the Tower of London, located beside Tower Bridge on the banks of the River Thames. Check the famous Crown Jewels for a view of the British monarchy treasures. Explore Buckingham Palace, where Queen Elizabeth lives. Stand by for the Changing of the Guard or book a tour to the Palace’s State Rooms, which only open for a few weeks during summer. Don’t miss Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the Parliament Buildings. We recommend heading to South Kensington, where you will find the popular Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum, where dinosaurs are the main attraction. Head to Trafalgar Square to check the iconic Nelsons Columns and the National Portrait Gallery.

Go to Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, and check the medieval buildings, such as Edinburgh Castle. The 13th-century fortress offers the One O’Clock Salute at Half Moon Battery. Also, you can check the Scottish Crown Jewels inside the Royal Palace. You must visit the Scottish National War Memorial and the Stone of Destiny. Don’t leave without passing by the magnificent Palace of Holyroodhouse.

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  • iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration

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vaccine travel requirements uk

  • Passports, travel and living abroad
  • Travel abroad
  • Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Greece set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact Greece’s embassy or consulate in the UK.

COVID-19 rules

Countries may restrict travel or bring in rules at short notice. Check with your travel company or airline for changes.

If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment there.

Visit TravelHealthPro (from the UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre) for general COVID-19 advice for travellers .

Travel to Greece

Follow any instructions given on arrival at immigration or airport testing facilities. Check the Ministry of Tourism website for more information.

Passport validity requirements

If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements .

Your passport must be:

  • issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
  • valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

You must check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.

Contact the embassy of the country you are visiting if you think that your passport does not meet both these requirements. Renew your passport if you need to .

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel:

  • as a tourist
  • to visit family or friends
  • to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
  • for short-term studies or training

If you are travelling to Greece and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

For a longer stay (to work or study, for business or for other reasons) you will need to meet the Greek government’s entry requirements. Check with the Greek Embassy before you make arrangements to travel about what type of visa and work permit, if any, you may need.

If you are travelling to Greece for work , read the guidance on visas and permits.

The entry requirements for touring creatives have recently changed, more details of the new rules can be found on the Greek Embassy website. If you stay in Greece with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

Passport stamping

Check your passport is stamped if you enter or exit the Schengen area through Greece as a visitor. Border guards will use passport stamps to check you’re complying with the 90-day visa-free limit for short stays in the Schengen area. If relevant entry or exit stamps are not in your passport, border guards will presume that you have overstayed your visa-free limit. If you do overstay, you may be fined on departure, and have restrictions placed on your ability to re-enter Greece whilst the fine remains unpaid.

You can show evidence of when and where you entered or exited the Schengen area, and ask the border guards to add this date and location in your passport. Examples of acceptable evidence include boarding passes and tickets.

You may also need to:

  • show a return or onward ticket
  • show you have enough money for your stay

If you are resident in Greece, read our Living in Greece guide for passport stamping information.

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Greece . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into the EU

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food required for medical reasons. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

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  9. As foreign travel rules ease, what is required to enter the UK?

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  12. Covid Information Rules For Entering UK

    Latest COVID-19 information. Britain and Northern Ireland currently have no official COVID-19 restrictions in place, however there is still guidance on what to do should you catch coronavirus while here on holiday. For more information, please check the official government websites using the links below. England. Northern Ireland. Scotland. Wales.

  13. Covid international travel rules

    International travel for leisure in England had first resumed in May 2021. Initially countries were given a red, amber, or green rating with different rules for testing and quarantining on return. The government simplified this system in October 2021, with only the red list remaining, and the red list was cleared of all countries on 1 November.

  14. International Travel to and from the United States

    COVID-19 vaccines are effective at protecting people—especially those who are boosted— from getting seriously ill, being hospitalized, and even dying. Follow all requirements of transportation operators (such as airlines, cruise lines, buses) and any requirements, including mask wearing, proof of vaccination, or testing at your destination.

  15. COVID vaccine certificate for travel: latest updates on an NHS Pass

    For travel, however, you'll only need two doses (or just one dose of a single dose vaccine) to be considered fully vaccinated. Do I need a booster for travel? As of now, entering the UK is a breeze as there is no requirement to show proof of your booster dose, undergo additional testing, or abide by any quarantine requirements.

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    If travelling to a high-risk area, you should be vaccinated against meningococcal meningitis with a MenACWY vaccine, also known as the quadrivalent meningococcal meningitis vaccine. This is a single injection that should be given 2 to 3 weeks before you travel. Babies under a year old need 2 injections.

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    The Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps, has today (17 September 2021) announced a simplified system for international travel in light of the success of the UK 's domestic vaccine rollout ...

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    More. Learn about CDC's Traveler Genomic Surveillance Program that detects new COVID-19 variants entering the country. Sign up to get travel notices, clinical updates, & healthy travel tips. CDC Travelers' Health Branch provides updated travel information, notices, and vaccine requirements to inform international travelers and provide ...

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  21. United Kingdom Vaccination Requirements

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  22. Entry requirements

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