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Pre Flight Covid Test

Can someone clarify the pre flight Covid test requirement. I've seen it described as I must get a covid test 72 hours before my departure time. I've also seen it described as 3 days before the departure day. Which is correct?
My flight departs at 1600 on Tuesday so do I have to get a test after 1600 on Saturday or can I schedule one for earlier Saturday morning.

Posted by
9617 posts

It depends where you are flying to. Different countries have different terms.

To fly into/back to the United States, it’s within three days (NOT 72 hours) prior to your flight that you have to have your test performed.

Posted by
246 posts

Yea but 75 hours is also within three days but not within 72 hours. So for entrance into the US where it specifies 3 days, the time of your flight is irrelevant. However the time of your flight is relevant for 72 hour requirement.

Posted by
32821 posts

to clarify the similar but different time requirements:

to enter the UK it is 72 hours. Not more.

to enter the US it is 3 days (midnight to midnight type days).

Tricky. Worth keeping an eye on,

Posted by
6 posts

We are scheduled to depart Heathrow on Saturday to return to US. Can we get tested at the airport on the departure date? CDC and other websites are confusing.