United Kingdom

The UK remains in lockdown, although on 11 May the UK Government announced some very limited relaxations. The basic rule – that people should stay at home except in the limited circumstances specified by the Prime Minister – remains in place. 

All non-essential shops and community spaces are closed. This includes schools, restaurants, pubs, libraries, playgrounds, gyms (including outdoor gyms), cinemas, theatres and places of worship (gatherings for funerals are excluded). Parks are open for exercise. Public transport has not stopped but should only be used for essential travel. Police have been given powers to enforce rules, including through fines and dispersing gatherings.

More information:

The devolved governments of Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales continue to direct citizens and visitors to follow their own public health guidance. Further advice can be found here: Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

Hotels in the UK are permitted to accommodate non-UK citizens who are unable to travel back to their country of residence due to COVID-19. However, some hotels in the UK are choosing to close. Confirm your accommodation booking with your hotel or travel agent, and consider other accommodation options if necessary.

Qantas and other airlines are currently operating limited flights from London to Australia. If you’re in the UK and wish to leave, do so as soon as possible while commercial options are available. Follow the Australian High Commission social media accounts for regular updates on flights leaving the UK.

If you plan to transit through the UK on your way back to Australia, you may need to provide proof that you have an onward flight booked. You may also be asked to show proof of accommodation bookings for any short term stays in the UK.

Some key transit hubs have suspended or severely restricted transit flights. Contact your travel agent or airline to check if your travel is affected and check Smartraveller for travel advice on your country of transit.

All arriving and departing passenger flights at UAE airports (Dubai and Abu Dhabi) have been temporarily suspended. This includes transiting the UAE. If you’re transiting Abu Dhabi or Dubai, confirm your flight with your airline as soon as possible.

Singapore does not permit entry or transit through Singapore for any short-term visitors.

If you’re staying in the UK:

• follow the advice of local authorities
• take care to protect yourself from exposure to COVID-19
• ensure you have arrangements in place for an extended stay
• keep in contact with family and friends so they know you’re safe and well.

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government