The UK government has announced that fully-vaccinated international passengers arriving in England from countries not on the red list will be able to take a lateral flow test beginning October 24th.
Currently, travellers must take a PCR test, which is more expensive and can take days to provide a result.
Those who have been vaccinated, as well as most under-18s, will be offered the choice to take a lateral flow test on or before day two of their arrival in the UK.
The change will take effect in time for those returning from half-term breaks, with Covid-19 tests available for booking through private providers.
According to the Department of Health and Social Care, the tests can be booked beginning October 22nd, and passengers must upload a photo of their test results as soon as possible to verify their results.
Anyone who tests positive must isolate themselves and undergo a confirmatory PCR test.
Sajid Javid, the Health Secretary, stated: “We want to make going abroad easier and cheaper, whether you’re travelling for work or visiting friends and family.
“Lateral flow tests will be available later this month for those returning from half-term holidays.
“This change to testing is only possible thanks to the incredible progress of our vaccination programme, which means we can safely open up travel as we learn to live with the virus.”
Passengers can also book a test to take upon their arrival in the UK at centers located in some airports.
– India’s new age travel digital media