Travel News: No Amber Quarantine for Double-Jabbed Travellers

Double-jabbed? Double good to go! On Thursday 8th July, the government Global Travel Taskforce announced that travellers who have had both their COVID-19 vaccinations will not need to isolate on their return to England from amber-list countries. Colour us excited! From 19th July, those taking advantage of this relaxation in restrictions will need to show proof of their vaccinations via the NHS app – now accepted by around 30 countries. Here we summarise the key takeaways from Grant Shapps’ fantastic travel news update:

From 19th July, if you’re a UK resident who has received both doses of your NHS-administered coronavirus vaccine and 14 days have passed since your second jab, you will no longer be required to self-isolate when returning to England from an amber-list country. You will also no longer be required to take a PCR test on day 8 after your return. Pre-departure and day 2 testing is still required when travelling on green or amber (with proof of vaccination).

Some countries are not currently accepting several batches of the AstraZeneca vaccine, specifically 4120Z001, 4120Z002, 4120Z003. It is also key to check local border rules/advice for your destination of choice, however this does mean holidaymakers now have more options for their summer vacations. Be sure to chat to your Flight Centre Travel Expert for more information.

This new rule also extends to children under 18 who have not yet been vaccinated. This means that for families, provided both parents have been double-jabbed, no one will have to isolate if returning to England from a green or amber-list country.

If you’ve been part of an approved government coronavirus trial, after 19th July you will also be exempt from self-isolation when returning from an amber-list country. You will need to provide proof of participation in a trial when travelling.

Still worried about your destination turning red? Don’t be! We’ve got your back with our Quarantine Protection which means you’ll be able to change or get a full refund FOR FREE if your destination goes red, border rules change or the FCDO advises against all but essential travel. This also applies to anyone who doesn’t meet the above criteria – so if you haven’t been vaccinated you can still book a green-list holiday, and if it turns amber or red you can amend your dates/destination or cancel.