SUN-STARVED Brits hoping for a summer getaway don't have long to wait until the government reveals its 'green' travel list.
The new traffic light system is expected to be announced on May 7, but will Ibiza and Majorca make the cut? Here is what we know.
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Will Ibiza and Majorca be on the green list for summer holidays?
While still to be confirmed, the UK government is expected to lift the travel ban on May 17 meaning holidays abroad can go ahead.
A handful of countries will be given coveted green status in a new travel traffic light system based on jab roll out and Covid rates – meaning Brits can visit with just two tests on their return and don't need to self-isolate.
Sadly it looks as though Ibiza and Majorca will be on the amber list, meaning you will need:
- A negative test taken before returning to the UK
- Mandatory ten-day quarantine at home
- Two Covid tests, taken on day two and day eight
It means the other Balearic islands of Menorca and Formentera will also likely be no-gos if holidaymakers want to avoid quarantine and high test costs.
If on the red list, then returning Brits will have to pay £1,750 to quarantine at a government-approved hotel.
But it is hoped the whole of Spain could be on the green list by June if Covid cases fall and the vaccine rollout continues.
What are the travel restrictions for Ibiza and Majorca?
It is illegal to travel abroad for a holiday from the UK, and rule-breakers face fines of up to £5,000.
Direct flights between UK and the Spanish islands are currently operating, but the Foreign Office advises against all but essential travel to the region based on Covid risks.
Entry restrictions and testing requirements continue to apply for travel to Spain and the Balearic Islands.
All arrivals from the UK – by air or sea – must complete and sign an online Health Control Form no more than 48 hours prior to travel declaring any known history of exposure to Covid-19 and giving contact details.
They must also present a negative Covid test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival or face a fine of €3000.
Temperatures checks and visual health assessments are being carried out at borders.
And only certain groups can enter the country, and its islands. This includes citizens and legal residents of the European Union, health professionals, students and transport personnel.
Spain has said it wants Brits back from June with vaccine passports or negative Covid tests.
Spanish tourism minister Fernando Valdes Verelst said: “June will be the start of the recovery of tourism in Spain.
“By then, we will have a digital vaccination certificate in place and we will be able to reopen our borders.”
Spain's state of alarm is due to be lifted from May 9.
Current lockdown restrictions differ per region but include night-time curfews and limits on restaurant and bar capacities.
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