Around 34 million people in England are now subject to Level 3 restrictions, after those living in London and parts of Hertfordshire and Essex were moved to the next level this morning, leaving many puzzled. if they can go on vacation abroad during the Christmas period.
The guidelines on the government website are unclear and we struggled to get a clear answer on what you can and cannot do. We’ve got all the info below – check out our guide to coronavirus travel rights for in-depth help with cancellations, refunds and more.
Can I spend a holiday abroad if I am in level 3 in England?
The rules on the Gov.uk website for level 3 zones are ambiguous, stating, “In a level 3 zone, you must avoid traveling outside of your region. If you must travel abroad, consult the travel advice of the Office of Foreign Affairs, Commonwealth and Development. for your destination and the list of travel lanes. “
And the confusion about it was sparked last month when Transportation Secretary Grant Shapps said of people in Level 3 zones: “If you’re going straight to an airport and going overseas, where you will of course have restrictions in place, but all of that aside, it’s something you can do. ”As a result, many publications have reported that you ARE allowed to go on vacation if you live in the level. 3 – for example, The independent stated that “international travel is permitted from level 3 locations”.
We asked two ministries if those at level 3 are allowed to go on vacation abroad. The Ministry of Transport referred us to the Ministry of Health and Social Affairs. The Department of Health and Welfare did not give us an official statement, but ultimately told us two things – it said the government’s guidelines are that people should not go on vacation abroad if they they live in level 3, but he also told us that the government legally declares that you ARE allowed to vacation abroad as long as you follow the following additional rules:
- If you are traveling through other levels as part of a longer trip you continue to follow the rules for level 3. You must not stay with someone you do not live with elsewhere in the UK or visit his home (unless you share a support bubble).
- If you are traveling abroad, you should consult the Foreign, Commonwealth and Deveopment Office travel advice for your destination and the list of travel lanes.
- You can travel to other airports outside of your tier, but specific airports may have their own restrictions.
