Starting August 8, the United Kingdom has moved India to its &lsquoamber&rsquo list as part of their relaxing rules for international travel. According to a government announcement, India, Bahrain, Qatar and the UAE have been moved from the red to the amber list, &lsquoas the situation in these countries has improved&rsquo.
However, the notification also mentioned that &lsquodata for all countries will be kept under review and the government will not hesitate to take action where a country&rsquos epidemiological picture changes&rsquo.
Travellers from the amber list of countries have to follow a set of rules specified by the UK government.
For example, if you have been in a country or territory on the amber list in the 10 days before you arrive in England you must take a COVID-19 test three days before you travel to England, book and pay for COVID-19 tests &ndash to be taken after arrival in England, complete a passenger locator form. These rules are mandatory for all, irrespective of being fully vaccinated or not.
On arrival in England, those who are fully vaccinated, must take a COVID-19 test on or before day two, subject to adherence to other conditions.
If you are not fully vaccinated or if you do not qualify under the fully vaccinated rules, on arrival in England you must quarantine at home or in the place you are staying for 10 days, take a COVID-19 test on or before day two and on or after day eight.
It is advisable for travellers from India to consult the nearest UK foreign office to get the latest information before planning a trip.
Meanwhile, Spain has opened its borders for fully vaccinated travellers from India subject to pandemic-related regulations. For example, only those inoculated with Covishield will be considered as fully vaccinated. Spain does not recognise Covaxin and other vaccines being administered in India. According to SchengenVisaInfo.com, Indian travellers must have a Schengen visa or apply for a Spanish visa through the online visa application centre, BLS, international. For more details and latest regulations, check here.