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Friday, Jan 09, 2026

The rules for children travelling abroad from the UK

The rules for children travelling abroad from the UK

People who have had both Covid jabs will now be able to fly home from amber list countries without having to quarantine from July 19.

Summer holidays are now more of an option for British tourists, as the restrictions for returning families are less strict.

Currently, only travellers from countries on the green list are exempt from self-isolation on return.

But if you’re looking to travel with young children or babies, what exactly are the rules?

What are the rules for children travelling abroad from the UK?


The rules for children travelling depend on the country you’re visiting from the UK.

Older children may have to take a lateral flow test

As children are not currently being vaccinated against COVID-19, the government advise the following:

*  Children over the age of 11 will need to take a lateral flow test

*  Children over the age of 16 can access their NHS COVID Pass through the NHS App

*  Children aged 13 to 15 can access the NHS COVID Pass if they have been given online access by a registered clinician

On arrival back into the UK, children aged four and under do not need to take the day two or day eight test – but everyone over that age does.

It’s advised that holidaymakers watch the traffic light lists carefully, as it’s likely the status of certain destinations will change throughout the summer.

Popular destinations like Greece, Portugal and Spain are currently on the amber list, so travel there currently isn’t recommended by the government.

But as the new rules come into place, it’s thought each location will have their own guidelines for young visitors.

If you’re currently eyeing up a beach vacation in the Caribbean (where many islands are on the green list), children may be subject to restrictions.

In the British Virgin Islands, for example, proof of a negative PCR test is needed for adults to enter, alongside a Gateway Traveller Authorisation Certificate ($35).

Children will be tested on arrival, and on day four of the trip.

You should always check the government website for more information before planning a getaway.

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