Days after scientists discovered the Omicron variant may have been spreading in Europe before it was detected in South Africa, thanks to cutting edge sequencing models used by the country’s virologists, South Africa remains on the United Kingdom’s (UK) red list.
UK red list: Here’s the latest
The UK government acted hastily in implemented the travel ban on South Africa and five other neighbouring countries last week, setting a widely condemned precedent that was soon followed by the European Union (EU), the United States (US) and Asia.
By Sunday 28 November 2021, Angola, Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia were added to the red list.
On Wednesday, the UK issued a notice confirming international British Airways and Virgin Atlantic flights would resume in South Africa. However, this would be limited by strict entry conditions.
Firstly, only UK, Irish and holders of permanent residency can enter the British country.
Secondly, travellers returning to the UK and/or Ireland will be subjected to mandatory quarantine for 10 days, irrespective of one’s vaccination status. PCR tests must be taken on Day 2 and 8 of the quarantine stay.
These rules apply even if you are fully vaccinated. Checklist for travelling to the UK:
— UK in South Africa🇬🇧 (@ukinsouthafrica) December 1, 2021
✅ Are you eligible to enter the UK? https://t.co/GD8nX6TGDg
✅ Have you booked your hotel quarantine?
https://t.co/3plVOkFE98
✅ If transiting – do you have the right transit visa?
It’s not all doom and gloom, though. According to UK High Commission in Pretoria, travellers from South Africa can still transit through England. South African citizens may require a transit visa if passing through UK border control.
At this time, no updates have come from the UK government on its position on the travel ban since leading scientists, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United Nations (UN) condemned the decision, describing it as irrational and not supported by data.
However, according to Euro News, the next update from the UK could come on Thursday 9 December 2021.