UK visitors to Italy must now produce evidence of a negative Covid-19 test on arrival after a clampdown on countries “at a greater risk” which also includes France and Spain.
Travellers need to show they have taken a test within 72 hours of arrival along with a negative result.
Those unable to provide evidence will need to take a test in Italy, with anyone testing positive required to quarantine until they are able to provide two negative tests.
The Foregn Office said: “[Those without proof of a negative test] can get a free test on arrival at some airports, or at a testing facility in Italy shortly after you arrive.
“If you test positive within Italy, you will be required to quarantine. The time spent in quarantine can vary greatly from a few days to several weeks. Travellers should be prepared for this eventuality.”
Italy is currently on the UK’s ‘safe list’ of countries that do not require self-isolation on return, with transport secretary Grant Shapps confirming that no countries would be removed during his weekly update on Thursday afternoon.
Meanwhile, Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates is offering free Covid-19 testing to international visitors staying in and departing from the emirate until December 31, 2020.
Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority is subsidising the cost.
“This effort will put in place an added element of safety – both for the guests staying within our properties, as well as our hospitality providers and their staff,” said chief executive Raki Phillips. “As travel corridors begin to open up, we will continue to incorporate and implement global best practices into our efforts to safeguard against the spread of the pandemic.
“This initiative comes at a perfect time as we move towards the cooler months of the year into the ‘Winter sun’ season, encouraging all visitors to experience all that the destination has to offer.”