UK govt to abolish negative Covid test rule for China arrivals

From 11.59pm on 4 April, the UK government will drop its rule requiring passengers travelling or returning from the country to take a pre-departure test. 

The UK Foreign Office confirmed the change in an updated travel advisory on Friday (17 March).

"Since 5 January 2023, if you travel (or return) from mainland China to England you must take a pre-departure Covid-19 test," it said.

"These rules for passengers travelling to England from mainland China will end 23:59 BST, 4 April. If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the relevant country."

Covid testing was reintroduced for China arrivals on 5 January following a rise in cases ahead of the country’s reopening. 

In response, Airlines for Europe joined Iata and Airports Council International in protesting the guidance.