[This story has been updated with statements from the UK transport secretary and further details of the new rules]
People who have been fully vaccinated in the EU, the US and the European Free Trade Association countries
will be able to avoid having to quarantine or self-isolate when arriving in
the UK with effect from 4am on Monday 2 August.
People who
have received both vaccinations in the UK have been able to enter England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland from amber
list countries since 19 July with the exception of France.
UK transport secretary Grant Shapps said the changes would apply to fully vaxxed people with a vaccine approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, the European Medicines Agency or as part of the Swiss vaccination programme. Arrivals will still need to do the usual pre-departure test before arrival and take a PCR test on day two after arriving in England. Those vaccinated in the US will also need to provide proof of US residency.
Shapps said in a statement: "We’ve taken great strides on our journey to reopen international travel and today is another important step forward. Whether you are a family reuniting for the first time since the start of the pandemic or a business benefiting from increased trade – this is progress we can all enjoy.
"We will of course continue to be guided by the latest scientific data but thanks to our world-leading domestic vaccination programme, we’re able to look to the future and start to rebuild key transatlantic routes with the US while further cementing ties with our European neighbours."
The decision was originally made for arrivals in England but the other devolved nations have followed suit.
The changes have been welcomed by the travel industry but there are calls for the transatlantic corridor between the UK and US to reopen. The US recently announced that it was maintaining its restrictions on international inbound travellers.
The change in rules came after BA, Virgin Atlantic and Heathrow reported the results of a trial that showed vaccination status can be checked quickly and easily away from the border to allow safe entry to the UK.