Negative test to enter in the UK - 3 days or 72 hours?

javixeneize

Hi

The govt page says that a negative antigen test is needed 3 days before the plane leaves

"You must take the test in the 3 days before the service on which you will arrive in England departs."


Is that 72 hours strictly or 3 days? It is, if my fight departs on a monday at 9am, can i take the test the previous friday at 2pm? It is, if my fight departs on a monday at 2pm, can i take the test the previous friday at 9am? Friday is 3 days before monday, but it is less than 72 hours

Thanks

billy2shots

Less is fine. Just not earlier

javixeneize

up, apologies, its the other way around. If my flight is at 2pm on a monday, can i take the test on friday at 9am? 

onashoestring

Yes you can - 
https://youtu.be/-DbXDItoJ24

CKhalvashi

If you arrive on Monday, you can have the test on Friday, Saturday or Sunday. Technically at 00:01 on Friday if you wish.

Full info here.

michael1234

I was in that situation a few weeks ago. Short answer: Its 3 days NOT 72 hours and if you take your test the previous Friday at 9am that's fine.

The info you need is actually here:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-testing-for-people-travelling-to-england

It (the government) gives this example:
For example, if you travel directly to England on Friday, you can take the test on or after Tuesday and will need to have the negative result available before boarding on Friday.