Day 2 Arrival Antigen Test
United Kingdom Travel and Entry Requirements
If you plan to travel to the United Kingdom (UK) from abroad, you will need to abide by the latest government COVID-19 regulations. New rules were recently released, which come into effect from the 4th October 2021. These rules are designed to ensure the safety of the UK, preventing infected people from spreading the virus within the country.
Therefore, please be aware of the travel and entry requirements before traveling. Below we’ve listed the most important points, including the procedures you will need to follow.
Traffic light system
Following the 4th of October, the traffic list system will be replaced with a simple red list of countries and territories to which travel restrictions apply. Please refer to the government red list to see if your country of origin is included.
Day 2 testing: What is it?
For unvaccinated passengers from non-red list countries, on Day 2 – within 48 hours of arrival – a “PCR Day 2 test” will need to be administered. PCR tests will also need to occur prior to departure and on Day 8. These rules also apply to those with non-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. Following the test, individuals will still need to self-isolate for ten days.
If you are from a non-red list country and have received an approved COVID-19 vaccine, only a lateral flow test is needed instead of a Day 2 arrival test. If a test is confirmed positive, the individual will need to isolate and take a confirmatory PCR test.
What is Test to Release?
Passengers who haven’t received an authorized vaccine are eligible for the Test to Release scheme. Here, individuals can choose to pay for a private COVID-19 PCR test on Day 5. If both Day 2 and day 5 tests were negative, then their quarantine may end early.
The scheme applies exclusively to England and is voluntary. Alternatively, individuals will need to quarantine for ten days as normal.
Who provides the Day 2 and Test to Release tests?
We do. Here at PExpo Diagnostics, we can administer Day 2 and Day 8 PCR tests, as well as PCR Test to Release tests. For all tests, the results are provided on the same day at a reasonable price. We offer a 15-min result from a Day 2 antigen test. Tests can be conducted via post – using next-day postage – or in-person in one of our clinics.
To book a test, all you’ll need to do is head over to our booking section. There, you’ll be able to select from a variety of options. Before you do so, however, ensure you’re from a non-red list country and that you won’t be traveling outside England. For further information about Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, please visit the relevant government website.
