Fully Vaccinated Brits Set for Easier Travel to Amber List Countries from July 19
Starting July 19, fully-vaccinated travelers from the UK will enjoy greater freedom, allowing them to visit amber list countries without the need to quarantine upon return.
This new initiative aims to revive the travel industry and increase holiday destinations available to Brits this summer, a welcome change for a sector that has struggled through the pandemic.
However, even with these relaxed measures at home, it is essential for travelers to remain vigilant regarding various Covid-related restrictions in their destinations.
Here’s the latest travel advice from the Foreign Office concerning Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark.
READ MORE: Latest Foreign Office travel advice for Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland
Finland
Currently on the UK’s amber list, Finland requires travelers returning from the country to quarantine for ten days. However, from July 19, fully vaccinated Brits will have the opportunity to travel without quarantine, assuming the country remains on this list.
Nonetheless, several entry regulations are still in effect for those wishing to visit Finland.
The Finnish borders are currently closed to non-resident foreign nationals, with only a few limited exemptions for those with significant work obligations or health care needs.
While border controls have been relaxed for travel between Finland and various countries, the UK has not yet been included in this list.
Norway
While Norway is classified as an amber list country for the UK, the situation is reversed, with the UK designated as a red list country in Norway.
Entry to Norway is restricted to certain individuals, such as residents or close relatives of those living in the country.
Travelers from the UK must present a negative Covid test, taken within 24 hours of departure, along with a completed self-declaration form.
As of July 5, those allowed entry into Norway no longer need to stay in a quarantine hotel; instead, they are required to isolate at a ‘suitable location’ for ten days.
Previously, UK travelers had to quarantine in a hotel for at least three days due to concerns over the Delta variant’s spread.
Sweden
Sweden remains on the UK’s amber list, and starting July 19, vaccinated travelers returning from Sweden will not need to quarantine.
Yet, travelers should proceed with caution, as Sweden enforces its own set of restrictions for arrivals from the UK.
A temporary entry ban applies to travelers from countries outside the EU/EEA, which includes the UK, although some categories, such as residents of Sweden, are exempt.
Foreign nationals allowed entry must provide proof of a negative Covid-19 test taken prior to arrival.
Denmark
Denmark employs a traffic light system similar to that of the UK, instituting varying regulations based on the classification of the traveler’s origin.
The UK generally falls under an orange rating, although certain regions, including the North East, North West, and Yorkshire and the Humber, are categorized as red.
Unvaccinated travelers or those hailing from red zones must have a valid reason to travel and must present a negative PCR test upon arrival.
Additionally, travelers from red zones are required to take another test upon arrival and self-isolate for ten days, though they can opt for a ‘test to release’ protocol after four days.
In contrast, fully vaccinated UK residents, if not arriving from a red zone, can enter Denmark for any reason without the obligation to self-isolate.
