The government announced a swathe of changes to the current travel lists on Thursday (26 August), with the green list set to gain seven new destinations next week.
Switzerland, Canada and Denmark will all be given green list status from 4am on Monday (30 August), along with the Azores, Finland, Liechtenstein and Lithuania.
The changes mean that travellers arriving in England from these countries will not have to self-isolate, regardless of their vaccination status.
However, it is still a requirement to take a pre-departure Covid-19 test and day two tests, as well as completing a passenger locator form.
Scotland and Northern Ireland will adopt the same updated rules, while the Welsh government is yet to confirm if it will follow suit.
While the changes will be welcomed by tourists, the travel industry has criticised the current restrictions, with Airlines UK calling for a “more proportionate system where tests are dropped for the fully vaccinated and from destinations where Covid risks are low”.
The government has defended its cautious approach to reopening international travel, saying loosening restrictions further could undermine the progress that has been made with the vaccine rollout.
Despite many popular holiday spots still remaining on the amber and red lists, the green list is continuing to expand and now includes more than 40 countries.
Listed are the destinations that will be added to the green list on Monday and their entry requirements.
5. Denmark
Current status: amber list. Covid cases in seven days to 26 August: 644. Will move to the green list at 4am on Monday 30 August. Photo: Shutterstock
6. Entry requirements
UK residents need to provide evidence of a ‘worthy purpose’ to enter Denmark, with a list of acceptable reasons found on the Danish coronavirus website. Those permitted entry must present proof of a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival, or an antigen test which is a maximum of 48 hours old. Travellers must take a test on arrival and self-isolate for 10 days. Fully vaccinated UK residents, or those previously infected with Covid can enter for all purposes, without the need to test or self-isolate. Photo: Shutterstock
7. Finland
Current status: amber list. Covid cases in seven days to 26 August: 151. Will move to the green list at 4am on Monday 30 August. Photo: Shutterstock
8. Entry requirements
UK travellers must show proof of full vaccination at least 14 days before arrival, or a certificate of Covid recovery from within the past six months. Those not fully vaccinated will need evidence of an essential or compassionate reason for entry. If you have received a negative test within 72 hours prior to arrival, and/or a first vaccine dose at least two weeks prior to arrival, you will need to take a Covid test between days three and five and remain in your accommodation until you receive a negative result. If you have no proof of a vaccination dose or negative test, you will need to take a test no later than 24 hours after arrival, plus on day three and five, and should self-isolate until you receive a negative result. Photo: PATRICK T. FALLON