Isolation relaxed for UK travellers to Island from Monday

Change applies to relatives that meet criteria only

Isolation rules are set to be significantly relaxed from Monday, for anyone travelling to the Isle of Man, as long as they meet certain criteria.

Those visiting must not have been outside of the UK, Guernsey or Jersey in the 10 days before arriving here.

However they will have to agree to be tested, and isolate immediately on arrival.

If the result of that test, undertaken within 48 hours of arrival, is negative, they'll be free to leave isolation. The test will cost £30.

A second, free test will also be required six days after arrival.

They will also have to avoid health and social care settings for 10 days after arriving, unless they need emergency care.

There will be no restrictions on the rest of household in which a traveller isolates, unless they test positive.

The chief minister says the changes he's outlined to border and travel rules will be confirmed on Thursday when the Council of Minister's will make a final decision.

Those who've been outside of the UK, Republic of Ireland, Guernsey or Jersey ten days before arriving the Island will only have to isolate for seven instead of 10 days, if they opt to be tested within 48 hours of arrival and on day six.

Both results must be negative before they can leave isolation, and each test will cost £30. 

The changes form part of what's described as a gradual easing towards a goal of unrestricted travel by 28 June.