12 January 2021

Falkland Islands exempted from pre-departure Covid-19 testing for UK northbound flights

Yesterday the UK Secretary of State for Transport announced the introduction of pre-departure Covid-19 testing requirements for all international travellers to England from 04:00am on 15 January. Subsequently the UK government has confirmed that it has made three exemptions to this policy for the following British Overseas Territories: the Falkland Islands, Ascension Island and St Helena.

MLA Ian Hansen, Chair of the Legislative Assembly, said: “This is welcome news as the strong safeguards we have in place have prevented the virus from spreading throughout our community to date. We are pleased that this exemption has been granted and understand that the UK government will continue to keep the situation under regular review.”

The Falkland Islands Government also continues to regularly review its Covid-19 policies and protocols, and is currently assessing the existing criteria for essential visitors. Any changes would be subject to ExCo approval and would be communicated to the public once agreed.