:::: PART 1 ::::: The original guide (it is updated - see Part 2 below)
Dear all,
%Person% mentioned in his mail that there are CoVid-19 tests available at the airport. Should you intend to get tested there, we have gathered more information on how to get there and what to expect. Please remember that a negative CoVid-19 test is mandatory for those who return from a risk area and cannot quarantine for two weeks after their return.
The airport CoVid-19 tests are open to all. This includes those who returned via other means, such as by car, bus or train, or other airports.
Tests can also be taken by those who require it for any other reason, albeit they have to pay 90 EUR. You do not need a doctor´s referral to get a test at the site.
1. Location of the test site:
The Corona test station is at the Köln Bonn Airport (Kennedystraße, 51147 Köln). The test site is open 24 hours, 7 days a week. If you drive there, follow the signs for “Parking N” – this parking lot is situated right next to the test site at the long distance bus stop.
Parking is 1,50 EUR per 10 Minutes, so remember to bring some cash. You can also reach the airport by train or by bus from Bonn Hauptbahnhof (Line 161).
The red circle marks the site:
2. The procedure
For those returning to Germany from a vacation, the test is free. For all others, the test costs 90 EUR. You will be sent a bill, so no need to pay at the site.
You need your passport and a cell phone number. Also, if you were returning via another airport or via car or train, remember to bring some kind of proof to the test site, such as your boarding card, tickets, etc.
The test site is split into two areas. First is the reception area. Here, you check in with the on-site personnel. They will photocopy your passport and verify whether you are returning from abroad, or you intend to take the test for other reasons. Then, they will issue you with
a form that has a QR-code and your data
a leaflet,
and a QR coded testing vial with a swab.
After they present you with these materials, they advance you to the second area, a large tent. Inside, they’ll quickly swab nose and throat – and the test is done.
How you get your results: you’ll be informed both by mail and via an app about your test results. The address for the app is on the leaflet. Inside the app, you need to scan the QR code, which will prompt the app to display your test result. Test results take between 24 and 48 hours. If the app is still stuck after several days, call the lab noted on the QR form. They can also fax you your results. You’ll get a letter in any case.
3. Pro tip
If you can choose a time when to go there: be smart and avoid the long queues. It’s advisable to avoid time periods within 90 minutes of an airplane arriving from a risk area, as you might be queuing in the heat for a significant amount of time. See all arrivals at
https://www.cologne-bonn-airport.com/en/flights/departure-arrival.html and pick your time accordingly. At times with no risk area planes inbound, it´s quite possible you will not have to queue at all.
4. Further info
Further info can be accessed here:
https://www.cologne-bonn-airport.com/en/flights/travel-healthy.html Best wishes from the PR team & stay healthy!
::: Part 2 - UPDATE: since we mailed out this guide, there's been a change in testing regulations. :::
ALL returning vacationers can now get tested for free, whether they have been in a risk area or not.
If you do want a test, but cannot / do not want to get it at the airport, ask your GP about this, or refer to the 24 hour emergency hotline at 116 117. They can connect you with other testing sites.
For those wanting to be tested and not having been on holiday: speak with your GP about this.
