UK Government Advises Against All But Essential International Travel

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The UK Government has issued a travel warning advising against all but essential international travel. At 1pm this afternoon, Tuesday 17 March, the following statement appeared on the FCO travel advice page: 

The Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) advises British people against all non-essential travel worldwide. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented international border closures and other restrictions. All countries may restrict travel without notice. 

The FCO was already advising against all but essential travel or all travel to some areas or countries due to risks that do not relate to COVID-19. This advice remains in place. Check FCO travel advice pages for the latest information.

If you now need to change or cancel your travel plans, follow these steps:

1.contact your airline, travel company, cruise line or other transport and accommodation providers
2. get in touch with your insurance provider
3. continue to follow the NHS coronavirus guidance

In a statement to the House of Commons, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said: 'UK travellers abroad now face widespread international border restrictions and lock-downs in various countries. The speed and range of those measures across other countries is unprecedented.' He added that British people currently abroad should seek to return immediately to the UK.

The travel restrictions are to be in place initially for 30 days, but it is possible, even likely, they will be extended further.

The UK Government's Coronavirus Travel Advice page is at www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus