Covid Omicron variant: These are the new rules if you're coming to the UK from abroad

Travel rules for anyone arriving into the country have been tightened as the new Omicron Covid variant continues to spread within the UK and around the world.

So, here's what you need to know if you're planning a trip abroad.

What do I need to do if I'm travelling to the UK from a country which is not on the red list?

From 4am on Tuesday, anyone entering the UK from a country which is not on the red list must show a negative PCR coronavirus test result taken in the 48 hours before their arrival in the UK.

Once you've arrived in the UK you must take a PCR test on or before your second day back. You must self-isolate until you receive a negative result.

Which countries are on the red list?

• Nigeria

• Angola

• Mozambique

• Malawi

• Zambia

• South Africa

• Botswana

• Eswatini

• Zimbabwe

• Namibia

• Lesotho

What are the rules for these red list countries and when do they come into force?

UK and Irish residents who arrive into the country from a nation on the red list must quarantine in a government-approved hotel for 10 days at a cost of £2,285 for one adult. These packages can be booked through the government's website.

The red list rules apply to people of all ages and vaccination status and anyone who breaks the rules faces a fine of up to £10,000.

Non-UK and Irish residents who have been in the affected countries in the previous 10 days will be refused entry into the country. Can I get around the restrictions by travelling via another country?

No.

However, the red list rules do not apply to people who have stayed airside and only transited through any of these countries while changing flights.

What are the quarantine hotel rules and how do I book a package?

The government website says you cannot travel to the UK if you have been in a red list country in the previous 10 days unless you are a British or Irish national, or have residence rights in the UK.

But if you have been in a red list country in the 10 days before arriving in England you must book a quarantine hotel package before travelling. You can book it on the government website.

You will have to quarantine for 10 days and 11 nights in a government-approved hotel and take Covid tests on days two and eight.

The rules also apply to people of all ages and vaccination status.

Anyone who breaks the rules faces a fine of up to £10,000.

How much does a quarantine hotel package cost?

• For one adult in one room for 10 days (11 nights) the cost is £2,285

• Additional rate for one adult (or a child over 11) is £1,430

• Additional rate for a child aged five to 11 is £325

The cost of the package includes transport to and from your hotel, accommodation, Covid tests and food and drink.