Premier League COVID-19 protocols for fans: FAQs

All you need to know if you are planning to attend Premier League matches

What do I need to do to attend a Premier League match?

Here is a neat summary. 

· You will need to register online to confirm that you have a valid NHS COVID Pass or test result from the previous 48 hours, and that you do not have any COVID-type symptoms.

· Please visit your club’s website to follow the simple instructions for pre-match registration and do this prior to the day of the match.

· It will be mandatory for all fans to have and be able to show their valid NHS COVID Pass or NHS COVID test result when asked.

· All clubs will be conducting checks.

· If you intend to show the NHS COVID Pass on your smartphone, it is recommended to save it "offline" by downloading it as a PDF or saving it in your Apple or Google Wallet.

What will happen to me if I don’t comply?
· If you are unable to provide proof of COVID Pass then you will be in breach of the conditions of ticket purchase and can expected to be denied entry to the ground

How can I keep myself and other fans safe?
· All fans should self-declare their NHS COVID status ahead of attending a Premier League match to ensure they are aware of and will comply with the matchday protocols, which are in place to help keep fans safe.

· Supporters should not travel if they have any COVID-19 symptoms or if there is any risk of passing on the virus. Fans should also wear a face covering when indoors, in congested areas or on public transport.

· All clubs are implementing COVID status checks at grounds and supporters must be able to show a valid NHS COVID Pass, or show an email or text message from NHS Test and Trace confirming you have taken a negative COVID test in the previous 48 hours – or as close to matchday as possible.

· The Premier League and its clubs will continue to follow the latest Government guidance regarding COVID-19 safety protocols.

Is pre-registration mandatory?
· Yes. It is important for everyone’s safety that we confirm your COVID status before you arrive.

· Ticketholders should receive a link to complete a COVID Declaration. For more information, please check your club’s website.

Will fans have to register for each match or will one registration cover all matches?
· If you are a season, hospitality or other longer-term ticketholder, your club may allow for your COVID declaration to cover multiple fixtures or for the remainder of the season

· Your Club will describe the valid period for your declaration in their correspondence to you or on the Club website.

What is different to previous COVID matchday protocols?
· All match-attending fans aged 18 and over must now register their COVID status ahead of a match, to confirm that they are fully vaccinated or have returned a negative NHS COVID test. Clubs will be in contact with ticketholders to ask them to complete an online declaration form.

· Clubs will also be conducting increased checks of those entering the stadium and will turn away supporters who fail to demonstrate their COVID certification.

What evidence can I show to demonstrate I have been vaccinated or tested?
· The Government has said that it will be mandatory for those attending a match to either show a valid NHS COVID Pass, or show an email or text message from NHS Test and Trace confirming you have taken a negative COVID test in the previous 48 hours.

· If you are using a COVID test result, it must be from the NHS and include the following information: your name; age or date of birth; when the test was taken; whether a PCR or lateral flow test; and confirmation that the test is negative

· Exemptions should now be registered with the NHS to generate an NHS COVID Pass, using 119 or the NHS website, or through your GP

· You can also show proof that you have been vaccinated in another country if it is from one of the countries recognised by the NHS. More details

What should I do if I am an away supporter?
· Your home club will be in contact with you to complete an online declaration

· You will need to have your NHS COVID Pass or valid negative NHS test result available to demonstrate if asked when you arrive at the stadium

I am not able to get a vaccine so will not be able to get an NHS COVID pass. What should I do?
· If you are exempt you should register your status with the NHS. This can be done through the NHS website, calling 119 or through arrangement with your GP.

· The Government has said that from 25 December you will only be able to certify your exemption in this way, so we encourage you to register now.

I have only recently had my second vaccine, is that okay? How long does it take to be valid?
· You will require proof of a negative NHS COVID test if you had your second vaccine less than 14 days prior to the match.

I don’t have a smartphone so what can I do?
· You can request that your NHS COVID Pass is sent to you by email or letter. (More details) 

What if I am travelling as a group and booking on behalf of others?
· Everyone attending a Premier League match will have to confirm their valid COVID status

· Some Clubs will have a group confirmation form available for a host or lead booker to return a confirmation for all the individuals in their booking.

When is this protocol in place and for how long?
· Plan B certification measures came into effect from Wednesday 15 December. The Government has said it will review the measures around 4 January.

What about international visitors who don’t have the NHS app – do they do lateral flow?
· You can show proof that you have been vaccinated in another country if it is from one of the countries recognised by the NHS. (More details)

· You can also demonstrate proof of a negative NHS COVID test result taken within the previous 12 hours

Where do I get a lateral flow test from? 
· Lateral flow tests are available for free from your local test centre or pharmacy. You can also order tests online.  

What about people aged under-18? 
· Under-18s will not need to certify their COVID status.

What are the entrance requirements? 
· Ticket holders must agree to follow the conditions set by: 

- Ticketing terms and conditions 
- Supporter Code of Conduct 
- Ground Regulations   

· The Supporter Code of Conduct sets out COVID-19 regulations and behaviours that supporters must follow to help keep everybody safe on matchday.