The UK Updates Green and Red Lists for Travelers

From May 17, the ‘Stay in the UK’ campaign imposed a red, green, and amber traffic light system, with varying requirements depending on recent travel history.

The Traffic Light System
  • Red Countries: Travelers who have visited a region on the red list will only be permitted to enter the UK if they are a British or Irish National, or have residence rights in the UK. They will need to take a COVID-19 test, book a quarantine hotel and follow-up tests, and complete a passenger locator form. Travelers are advised to not travel to any Red List countries.
  • Amber Countries: Before traveling to the UK, passengers must take a COVID-19 test, pre-book COVID-19 tests for day 2 and day 8 after arrival and complete a passenger locator form. These travelers will be able to quarantine at their destination for 10 days. Passengers will also have the option to opt into Test to Release at day 5. Children 4 years old and younger will not need to test on Day 2 or 8. Travelers are advised to not travel to any Amber List countries.
  • Green Countries: Travelers from the green countries must take a COVID-19 test, pre-book a COVID-19 test for day 2 and complete a passenger locator form. They do not need to quarantine unless the results of the Day 2 test are positive or they were traveling with someone who tests positive. Children 4 years old and younger will not need to test on Day 2.

 

Changes in the Country Categories

The green, amber, and red lists are updated every 3 weeks.

  • On June 8, at 4 AM, Afghanistan,  Bahrain, Costa Rica, Egypt, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Trinidad and Tobago, will move from the Amber list to the Red List. Travelers arriving after then will need to follow Red List rules.
  • On June 8, at 4 AM, Portugal will move from the Green List to the Amber List. Travelers arriving after then will need to follow Amber List rules.

 

Erickson Immigration Group will continue to send updates as more news is available. If you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions, please contact your employer or EIG attorney.