.jpg){kind=logo}
What’s more important than family, Christmas, and shopping for deals on the best gifts this holiday season? This year, the answer is probably Covid tests. To be able to travel and to participate in public events if you’re unvaccinated, many countries require proof of a negative Covid-19 test within the last 2 days/48 hours. As winter rolls around and restrictions begin to tighten, we are offering two locations where you can get the COVID-19 rapid antigen test or the PCR test.
FirstMed performs rapid antigen tests with results in about 20 minutes. It’s best to schedule an appointment, and you can communicate with the doctor in either English or Italian. Results are available in both English and Italian. The cost is €15.
Laboratorio Luisa performs the PCR test and no appointment is necessary. Results can be ready in 24 hours, and are also available in English. The cost is €60.
Covid Testing Requirements for Travelers to the UK
In the UK, travel regulations are changing. As of 4:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 7th things look slightly different if you’re planning to travel to the United Kingdom from a non-red-list country. Even if you’re vaccinated, you must pay attention to the new COVID-19 measures taking place. Here are the things to do before you arrive:
If you are vaccinated:
Take either the PCR tests, LAMP test, or Lateral Flow Device (LFD) test within 2 days of your departure
Pre-book and pay for a PCR test for yourself to be taken upon arrival in the UK
Complete the passenger locator form (PLF)
Provide proof of Covid-19 vaccination
If you are unvaccinated:
Take the PCR or LFD test 2 days before arrival
Quarantine for 10 days (possibly more based on day 8 PCR result)
Pre-book and pay for two PCR tests following arrival day 0: before or on day 2 and on or after day 8 of quarantine
Complete the PLF
Who is exempt from taking the test?
Some people are unable to be vaccinated due to preexisting health conditions or the job they work. If you are unable to be vaccinated, you must present a document that specifies why you are unable to be vaccinated.
In most cases, you must still complete a Covid-19 test and PLF prior to departure. Upon arrival, the requirements vary based upon the type of work you do or which health condition affects you.
Covid Testing Requirements for Travelers to the US
Before departing for the US, all travellers 2 years and older complete a Covid-19 test 3 calendar days prior regardless of vaccination status. Alternatively, it is possible to provide proof of recovery from Covid-19 within the past 90 days. There are no waivers to this policy.
The only exemption is for humanitarian workers who need emergency medical evacuation or are unable to access testing prior to departure. Read more about the testing requirements for entry to the US on the Department of State website.
Covid testing requirements for the Travelers within the EU
Regarding the European Union and Schengen associated countries (EU), each country has a unique set of entry requirements.
If you are already in an EU country, the digital Covid certificate will allow you to move through the borders of the Union and Schengen zone with several provisions.
If you are travelling to Europe from outside the EU, please pay special attention and research enough in advance the entry requirements for the country or countries you plan to visit.
In general, you must:
Complete a passenger locator form (PLF)
Take a Covid-19 PCR or antigen test
In some countries, you may also have to:
Complete a quarantine or self-isolation
Complete a Covid-19 PCR or antigen test upon arrival and/or at the end of quarantine
Who is exempt from a Covid-19 Test?
Children younger than 6 years old are not required to have a Covid-19 test before travelling.