Supporters are advised to be prepared to show NHS COVID-19 status certification in order to attend matchdays at Villa Park.
Following the government’s announcement to introduce Plan B of its COVID response autumn-winter measures, new protocols are now in place for all match-attending fans.
All supporters aged 18 or over, including those in hospitality, will be required to:
- Pre-register your COVID status online in advance of arriving at the stadium - this is to declare you are symptom-free, hold a valid NHS COVID Pass or negative NHS COVID test result and understand you risk being refused entry if you cannot provide proof. Supporters will simply be asked to complete a pre-registration form which will be emailed to fans (lead bookers for group tickets) within 72 hours of matchday. This must be submitted prior to three hours before kick-off. Please ensure your email address and preferences are up-to-date.
- Show your NHS COVID Pass or negative NHS COVID test result (within the previous 24 hours) at stadium checks.
- Do not travel if you feel unwell and/or are displaying COVID symptoms
Spot checks will take place across all areas of the stadium, including hospitality, and supporters risk being denied entry if you are unable to show your NHS COVID Pass or proof of a negative NHS COVID test within the previous 24 hours, ideally on matchday.
If applicable, evidence of a negative lateral flow test result needs to be registered within the NHS COVID Pass. Do not bring your lateral flow test kit to the stadium.
Medical exemptions should now be registered with the NHS to generate an NHS COVID Pass, using 119 or the NHS website, or through your GP. This can take a little time, so if you are medically exempt, please alert the nearest steward on arrival.
Fans are also reminded to display good public health behaviour – stay at home if you have COVID-19 symptoms, wash hands regularly, social distance wherever possible and wear a face covering when indoors, in congested areas and on public transport.
Aston Villa, the Premier League and its clubs have a shared goal and ongoing commitment to keep supporters and all those in attendance at fixtures as safe as possible during the COVID pandemic.
On the back of previous 2021/22 COVID matchday regulations, these new requirements are vital to help create a safe matchday environment for all fans to enjoy.
Please note, this applies to all Premier League stadia and is a legal requirement/condition of entry.
Thank you in advance for your help, support and patience during this time.
See below for our full list of FAQs
Supporters are advised to arrive at Villa Park in plenty of time in order to be prepared for spot checks.
To read our COVID-19 Fans Code of Conduct, click here. By purchasing a match ticket, supporters are agreeing to comply with this Code of Conduct.
FAQs
COVID-19 matchday regulations
What do I need to do to attend a match at Villa Park?
- You will need to register online to confirm that you have a valid NHS COVID Pass or test result from the previous 24 hours, and that you do not have any COVID-type symptoms. You will be emailed a link with simple instructions to confirm your pre-match registration and you must 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. If you are unable to, you risk being denied entry to the match.
- If you are going to show the NHS COVID Pass on your smartphone, you should try to have it saved ‘offline’ by downing it as a PDF or saving it in your Apple or Google wallet.
What evidence can I show to demonstrate I have been double vaccinated or tested?
- The government has said that it will be mandatory for all those attending a match to either show a valid NHS COVID Pass or show an email or text message from the NHS Test and Trace confirming you have taken a negative COVID test in the previous 24 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.
- If you are not vaccinated, you can book your vaccine here.
What is accepted evidence?
- NHS COVID Pass via: NHS App, Apple/Android Wallet, PDF of NHS COVID Pass, NHS COVID Pass letter for those who are double vaccinated
- EU digital COVID certificate (along with ID)
- Negative NHS COVID test result via email or text message (dated within 24 hours of the fixture)
Please note: All of the above evidence must have a valid date stamp
Do Under 18s need to pre-register and demonstrate their COVID pass?
- No, these requirements are for adults aged 18 and over.
Where can I find out more information about the NHS COVID Pass, how to get one and a list of accepted evidence?
- Visit NHS COVID Pass
- Alternatively, contact the club via @AVFCSupport on Twitter for further guidance
What if I am exempt?
- If you are medically exempt, we recommend calling 119 to obtain an official COVID Pass. This can take a little time, so if you are medically exempt, please alert the nearest steward on arrival.
Is pre-registration mandatory?
- It is important for everyone’s safety that we confirm your COVID status before you arrive. All ticket holders will receive a link to complete a COVID Declaration via email, prior to matchday.
Why do I need to pre-register? Why can’t I just show up with my COVID Pass?
- It is important for everyone’s safety that you confirm your COVID status before you arrive. This is a requirement in addition to being able to show a valid NHS COVID Pass or negative NHS COVID test result when asked at Villa Park.
Do season ticket holders need to pre-register for every game?
- Under current guidelines from the local Public Health Director, season ticket holders only need to complete the form once for the remainder of the season, providing supporters continually comply with the declarations. Please note, this is subject to change to align with the advice of local Public Health and the latest government regulations. Match-by-match attendees may still receive a form per fixture.
- Fans travelling to away games will be notified with the declaration notices/forms for each club.
I completed a Health Declaration with the club previously (last season), so do I need to do this again?
- Yes, this is a new declaration for this season.
Will I be able to take a lateral flow test at the stadium?
- No, a lateral flow test should be completed prior to your arrival. This will need to be registered with the NHS in order to have the appropriate evidence to show upon request.Do not bring your negative lateral flow test kit to the stadium.
Can I bring the actual lateral flow test with me as proof?
- No, we cannot accept the actual tests. You will need to upload the result to get your official pass.
What will happen if a fan is unable to show evidence?
- The fan will be refused entry and their ticket deactivated for that game.
Someone in my household has tested positive. Can I still attend the match?
- For self-isolation rules please follow government guidelines here.
How will I get the pre-registration form?
- This will be emailed to fans attending (lead bookers for group tickets). Please ensure we have your most up-to-date details by logging on to your Digital Account.
How will this apply to hospitality guests?
- All hospitality guests will be required to follow the same requirements and spot checks will take place for hospitality areas. The pre-registration form will be sent to the lead booker who will be responsible for ensuring that all of their party who attend with them adhere to the new protocols.
What else will be happening on matchday?
- We would advise all fans to arrive early to aide with spot checking processes at turnstiles. Other activity (such as the shop and fun zone) will be open adhering to the latest government guidelines and information will be published online in our Matchday Guide, which will also be sent to fans attending.
I haven't been vaccinated or have only had one dose - can I still attend?
- Yes, if you complete a lateral flow test which is negative within 24 hours of attending. This must be registered with the NHS and you need to bring the appropriate evidence (official NHS App, Email or SMS) to show upon spot checks at the stadium.
