Can I travel to the US from the UK? Restrictions explained
THE United States has reopened to British holidaymakers after more than a year and a half of travel bans.
But what are the entry rules and how easy is it to cross the border?
Can I travel to the US from the UK if I am fully vaccinated?
Double vaccinated visitors from the UK and EU have the green light to enter the US from today, Monday, November 8, 2021.
Visitors are only allowed to meet with loved ones if they have completed a full course of the coronavirus vaccine at least 14 days prior to arrival, which can be proved via the NHS Covid Pass app or with a letter.
If you’re travelling by plane, you will also need to take a pre-departure test within 72 hours of landing - this can’t be a free NHS test though.
Lateral flow tests are accepted, but you’ll need to book privately and your test must be supervised, meaning you’ll need an online appointment with a nurse too.
There’s good news for anyone who has recently recovered from Covid though.
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Those who have caught the virus in the past three months can ditch the pre-departure test and gain entry with the NHS Covid Recovery Pass instead.
Passengers will also need to fill out a combined passenger disclosure and attestation form ahead of flying - and remember to arrange for a Visa or ESTA as well, as you’ll still need this to get through immigration.
Test companies are making it as easy as possible for Brits wanting to head to America though.
Lots of private providers, like Breathe Assured, are offering US-UK packages, which include a pre-departure test to the US and a Day 2 lateral flow test, which you’ll need to take when you get back to the UK. Breathe Assured packages cost from £50.
Can unvaccinated British adults travel to the US?
The US has strict rules on anyone who hasn’t been vaccinated, which essentially means: no jab, no entry.
Can unvaccinated British children travel to the US?
The rules are a little different for kids.
All under 18s who are travelling with a fully-vaccinated adult can gain entry, but parents will need to fill out a combined passenger attestation form and kids will need to take a test three to five days after arrival.
