Navigating Delays with Your Day 2 Covid Test in the UK: What You Need to Know

If you’ve recently traveled to the UK from abroad, the arrival of your Day 2 Covid test can be a source of anxiety, especially when you’ve ordered it through a provider like EXMED (Expert Medicals). I want to share my experience and offer some reassurance to anyone facing a situation like mine.

Upon arriving in the UK from the USA, I was fully vaccinated and had taken the necessary steps to order my Day 2 Covid test. However, much to my dismay, the test kit did not arrive on or before the critical Day 2. In hindsight, I should have done more research on the provider, as EXMED has been receiving numerous negative reviews, and customer service through their phone line is virtually non-existent.

Feeling stressed by the jumble of regulations and compliance requirements for international travel, I reached out to the NHS Covid advice line at 119 on the recommendation of a fellow traveler. After navigating the somewhat complicated phone menu and unintentionally speaking to a very helpful representative, I learned that there is no issue with late Day 2 test arrivals. It’s important to emphasize this point: there are no penalties for delays in receiving your test, provided you ultimately complete it. The only fines you need to worry about are for failing to take the test entirely.

This informative interaction significantly eased my wife’s anxiety about the situation and allowed us the flexibility to either wait for our original test or consider securing another test at a more reasonable cost. For your reference, while some providers may charge up to £150, the actual cost of these tests can be as low as £7. Don’t get caught overpaying when there are more affordable options available.

I hope this information helps to alleviate some of the stresses related to Covid regulations and testing requirements for international travelers in the UK. Safe travels and good luck with your tests!

Cheers!