The latest Covid-19 rules for travellers entering the UK came into effect this morning (Tuesday 7 December) at 04:00.
People arriving in the UK from abroad will now need to take pre-departure Covid tests, in addition to following other measures, to prevent the spread of the Omicron variant of Covid-19.
All international travellers aged 12 or over will have to provide a negative pre-departure test taken two days before travelling. You can take a COVID-19 PCR or a (generally cheaper) lateral flow test up to 2 days before you depart for Scotland.
Travellers must then take a PCR test on, or before day two, after arriving in the UK and self-isolate until a negative result has been received.
Contacts of a suspected Omicron case must also self-isolate for 10 days after arriving in the UK.
The rules are more stringent for red-list countries, which now includes Nigeria. All travellers returning to Scotland from red-list countries are required to quarantine on their arrival in managed accommodation for 10 days.
“It is essential we take steps now to keep people safe, protect the roll out of the booster programme and reduce the chances of unsustainable pressure being placed on the NHS over the winter,” said Scottish Transport Secretary Michael Matheson.
“We have always said it may be necessary to quickly implement fresh measures to protect public health in Scotland, particularly with regards to international travel, and these restrictions are proportionate and necessary to that aim.”
He added: “We fully understand the impact the changes will have on staff and businesses in the travel and aviation sectors, particularly as the new variant came at a time when we were beginning to see some signs of recovery. We will not keep the restrictions in place any longer than is necessary.”
The latest information about Covid-19 travel restrictions and requirements can be found on the Scottish Government website.