England eases travel restrictions abroad

The British government has announced easing restrictions on travel abroad from May 17th, excluding from quarantine those arriving in England from 12 countries, including Israel and Portugal, but not from known destinations such as France.

During a press conference, Transport Minister Grant Shapps announced the removal of a ban on travel abroad, reserved since January for substantial travel and the creation of a system of restrictions classifying countries into three categories, according to their health situation.

The minister explained that lifting the restrictions was “necessarily measured”, because the government “should absolutely ensure that the countries with which we reconnect are secure, their low infection levels and high vaccine levels”, the ATS reports.

On the green list are 12 countries, including Portugal, Israel, Gibraltar, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore.

For these countries, COVID-19 tests will still be mandatory before and after arrival.

Most of the countries, including British-known destinations, such as France, Italy, Spain and Greece, remain classified <x0).

For countries on the red list, only British residents can return to England, but they must undergo a quarantine at an 11 - night hotel at their expense.

Countries and territories already on this list (in particular South America) are now added to Turkey, Maldivet and Nepal.