British expats in Spain are expressing concern about being contacted by NHS Test and Trace while in the UK for Christmas family visits. People who were vaccinated outside the UK faced having to isolate for 10 days.
However, the UK Government recently announced that anyone vaccinated outside the UK would have their vaccines recognised from 1st December. This means that British expats should be able to enjoy Christmas in the UK without having to worry about isolating.
An update on the British Embassy Facebook page, ‘Brits in Spain’, said: “We know that many of you have been concerned about being contacted by NHS Test and Trace whilst in England and the possible need to self-isolate for 10 days.
“The UK Government has announced that, from 1st December, anyone who has been fully vaccinated outside the UK with a recognised vaccine will be subject to the same rules as those who are fully vaccinated under the UK vaccination programme.
“This means that you will no longer have to self-isolate if you are identified as having been in contact with someone who tests positive while you’re in England.”
Many British expats living in Spain are planning to visit family in the UK over Christmas, some for the first time since the pandemic.
However, newly announced changes due to the emergence of the Omicron variant have left confusion over Test and Trace rules.
According to the latest information, expats visiting Britain from Spain now need to take a PCR test (not a lateral flow) on day two of arrival and stay in isolation until a negative result is received. All contacts of suspected Omicron cases must self-isolate, regardless of their vaccination status. They will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace.
Face coverings will be made compulsory in shops and on public transport from next week. All hospitality settings will be exempt.
For the most up-to-date rules all travellers are advised to the check the official UK Government website or Facebook page.