From Sunday, the 8th of August, 2021, India has officially been moved from the ‘red’ list to the ‘amber’ list by the United Kingdom.
These lists refer to the traffic light system introduced in the UK from May onwards. Let’s learn a little more about this system first to comprehend better what India being moved to the ‘amber’ list means and how it will affect passengers.
UK’s Traffic Light System
This system includes a green, amber, and red list of countries, with each list meaning different rules for testing and quarantine,
Here’s what the respective lists signify for the countries under them:
- Green list: Only one test is required up to 72 hours before departure to the UK. One PCR test on or before day two of arrival in the UK, and a quarantine is unnecessary unless you test positive.
- Amber list: This is the list India is currently in. One-pre departure test is required, along with quarantine at home for ten days upon arrival in the UK. A PCR test is needed on days two and eight of quarantine.
- Red list: This was the list India was previously under. If the country you’re traveling from is under this list, you need a pre-departure test. Upon arrival, passengers have to be quarantined in a hotel for ten days, and the cost is £2,285 per person.
PCR test on days two and eight of quarantine, and it is also to be kept in mind that passengers must pay for a quarantine package before deprecating for the UK.
What India Being in the Amber List Means for Passengers
The meaning of traveling from a country under the amber list is given above, but there are additional details you must know.
If you’re already fully vaccinated, you must take a COVID-19 pre-departure test regardless.
Next, take a COVID-19 test on or before day two after you arrive in England.
Additionally, the UK only approves vaccines under:
- The UK vaccination program
- The UK vaccination program overseas
- An approved vaccine in Europe or the USA
Keep these precautions and requirements in mind and travel safely.