Getting around

In Scotland, do I have to self-isolate for 14 days if I’ve been abroad?

From 10 July travellers arriving from 57 overseas destinations that have similar or lower levels of COVID-19 infection compared to Scotland do not have to self-isolate. Passengers arriving from these exempted countries and territories will still be required to complete an online passenger locator form prior to travel and to supply contact details, travel details and the address of the final destination where they will be staying. Read the list of countries and territories excluded from quarantine on 10 July

What about countries not on the exempted list?

Passengers arriving in Scotland who have travelled to a non-exempted country or territory will still have to quarantine by self-isolating for 14 days. This list will be continually reviewed and assessed against the evidence we have available to us.

What if I travel back from overseas via England or another UK country?

If you travel back to another part of the UK, but your final destination is Scotland, you must follow the rules that are in place in Scotland. Please visit the Scottish Government website for further information.

Do I have to wear a face covering on public transport?

Yes. From 22 June face coverings are mandatory on public transport. It will apply to all passengers and staff in public areas, although there will be exemptions especially for those who are not able to wear a face covering for specific medical reasons. Children under five will also be exempt. Read more about face coverings and exemptions.

What is a face covering?

A face covering should cover your mouth and nose while allowing you to breathe comfortably. It can be as simple as a scarf or bandana that ties behind the head. Read more about face coverings and exemptions.

Do children require face coverings?

Yes, all children should wear face covering except for children under five. Read more about face coverings and exemptions.

What are the rules on 2m physical distancing on public transport?

General advice on physical distancing is unchanged and the recommendation is still that you remain 2 metres away from people when you meet them. From 10 July an exemption will be made to the requirement for 2m physical distancing on public transport subject to strict conditions. Appropriate mitigations include improved ventilation, face coverings, provision of hand sanitising facilities, plans for regulating the flow of customers and seating plans which reduce the risk of different households transmitting the infection to each other. Information for the public should make clear when they are entering a 1 metre zone.

The following links to the Transport Scotland website contain further information:

• https://www.transport.gov.scot/coronavirus-covid-19/transport-transition-plan/
• https://www.transport.gov.scot/coronavirus-covid-19/transport-transition-plan/guidance-on-travelling-within-scotland/
• https://www.transport.gov.scot/coronavirus-covid-19/transport-transition-plan/guidance-for-transport-operators/

How far are people allowed to travel by car?

We have relaxed the 5 mile guidance on travel for leisure purposes. Please stay local as much as possible for goods, services and activities and avoid crowded places where physical distancing may be difficult.

I’m a student, can I now pick up my belongings from term-time residence?

From 29 June members of the public will be able to undertake certain activities in connection with the purchase, sale, letting or rental of a residential property.

This also applies to student moves and students picking up belongings from student accommodation.

Will you be providing assistance with active travel – increasing cycle provision, free city bikes, etc.?

Physical distancing measures on public transport will be in place for some time, so if you can walk, wheel or cycle please do.

£30 million has been made available to support this through the Spaces for People programme – with local authorities making changes such as pop-up cycle lanes and widening pavements.

Active travel benefits your physical and mental health, protects our climate, saves you money and helps manage demand on public transport. We will continue to take steps to encourage more sustainable travel wherever possible across Scotland.