Fit to Fly 48 hr PCR test - how to synchronise with flight?

kuepper

I initially understood that for destinations i'm looking at visiting that I need a test done within 48 hrs of flight departure (or maybe within 48 hrs of checking-in?). I've now been told that I have to have got the RESULT of the test within 48 hrs of check-in (or maybe 48 hrs of departure?). I can't find any clarification of the interpretation of this 48 hr rule but how can you guarantee meeting the requirements whatever the criteria is?

eskbanker

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to questions like that, as each country can set its own rules, so criteria will differ as to exactly when the 48 hours starts and finishes.

In terms of ensuring results are available in time, test providers will typically offer express services (at a cost of course) that return the outcome within, say, three hours.

If you give some clues about where you're travelling to, which UK airport you're flying from, and when, people will likely be able to offer more specific and concrete guidance about options open to you....

MaryNB

kuepper said:

I initially understood that for destinations i'm looking at visiting that I need a test done within 48 hrs of flight departure (or maybe within 48 hrs of checking-in?). I've now been told that I have to have got the RESULT of the test within 48 hrs of check-in (or maybe 48 hrs of departure?). I can't find any clarification of the interpretation of this 48 hr rule but how can you guarantee meeting the requirements whatever the criteria is?

What country are you flying to and what exactly is the wording of their requirements? There's isn't a single testing rule. Different countries have different requirements.

Anytime I've looked into testing requirements it's always been that the test is carried out within the timeline noted but that's not to say another county doesn't require something different.

Sandtree

Similar to the above most specify when the sample must have been taken but clearly any sovereign nation is free to set whatever rules it wants to and there is more variety over if the timing is relative to departure time or arrival time.

Hopefully have 2 years most countries have got themselves in order but there has been a lot of inconsistent use of language, even the UK was flip flopping between 48 hours and 2 days depending on where you looked (even on the .gov.uk website)... this is at greatest risk when new rules are introduced and thankfully after a while they tend to harmonise 

In the first instance see what the FCO website states on entry requirements however for belts and braces you really should check directly with the country's own governmental website (though language may be a barrier)

kuepper

I was looking at going to either Cuba or Uzbekistan at the end of March, preferably from Manchester but LHR or LGW if necessary though I'd have to factor in travelling time to those 

emmajones1976

I assume you are aware of this for Uzbekistan though:

From 3 December 2021, visitors arriving into Uzbekistan from the UK will be required to self-isolate for 10 days at home or at a hotel, at their own expense. This is currently being reviewed and may change at short notice.

jimi_man

Cuba is 72 hours before travel I think, not 48. 

I went to the UAE recently and that was similar. We went on the Friday lunchtime and had the PCR tests on Wednesday morning and got the results back later that day - if that helps.

sheramber

https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/cuba/entry-requirements#entry-rules-in-response-to-coronavirus-covid-19

Entry to Cuba

Entry requirements may be subject to change at short notice. You should also check requirements with your airline.

From 5 January 2022, travellers arriving from the UK will need a valid COVID-19 vaccination certificate from their country of origin and a PCR test taken within 72 hours before travel.

kuepper

emmajones1976 said:

I assume you are aware of this for Uzbekistan though:

From 3 December 2021, visitors arriving into Uzbekistan from the UK will be required to self-isolate for 10 days at home or at a hotel, at their own expense. This is currently being reviewed and may change at short notice.

I understand ppl on organised tours of 5 ppl or more are exempt from that requirement

sheramber

kuepper said:

emmajones1976 said:

I assume you are aware of this for Uzbekistan though:

From 3 December 2021, visitors arriving into Uzbekistan from the UK will be required to self-isolate for 10 days at home or at a hotel, at their own expense. This is currently being reviewed and may change at short notice.

I understand ppl on organised tours of 5 ppl or more are exempt from that requirement

Do you have a link to that information?

kuepper

sheramber said:

kuepper said:

emmajones1976 said:

I assume you are aware of this for Uzbekistan though:

From 3 December 2021, visitors arriving into Uzbekistan from the UK will be required to self-isolate for 10 days at home or at a hotel, at their own expense. This is currently being reviewed and may change at short notice.

I understand ppl on organised tours of 5 ppl or more are exempt from that requirement

Do you have a link to that information?

I read it on  a @UZAmbassador tweet but seen it here too https://www.advantour.com/uzbekistan/covid-19.htm