London, Feb. 9, 2021 (AltAfrica)-UK government is set to announce all passengers arriving into the country must undergo two additional Covid test on the second and the eighth day of self-isolation after they arrive.

The new rules, expected to come into force from 15 February, will not just apply to those arriving from “red zone” countries heading into hotel quarantine, but those self-isolating at home too.

All travellers – whether isolating at home or in a hotel – will be required to pay for their own tests.

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ITV News understands that travellers arriving from “red zone” countries will need to book their quarantine hotel, transfer and test as a package through an online booking system.

The announcement comes as part of the government’s broader package of measures to quarantine arrivals.

Enhancing the testing regime “to cover all arrivals while they isolate” would add another level of protection, the Department of Health said.

The move is designed to help to track any new cases which might be brought into the country and make it easier to detect new variants.

It is in addition to the current rules which say travellers arriving in the UK, whether by boat, train or plane, must show proof of a negative Covid-19 test to be allowed entry.

The test must be taken in the 72 hours before travelling, and anyone arriving without one faces a fine of up to £500.

All passengers will still be required to quarantine for up to 10 days.

The aviation industry has expressed concern that if more layers are added to the policy, it will take longer for business to return.

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: “Throughout the pandemic, the government has put in place proportionate measures, informed by the advice of scientists, that has led to some of the toughest border regimes in the world.  

“It is important the government continues to take the necessary steps to protect people and save lives.

“Enhancing our testing regime to cover all arrivals while they isolate will provide a further level of protection and enable us to better track any new cases which might be brought into the country, and give us even more opportunities to detect new variants. 

“Further details of our mandatory quarantine and enhanced testing regime will be set out soon.”