Source: usa.gov

28.12.2022

CDC Announces Negative COVID-19 Test Requirement from Air Passengers Entering the United States from the People’s Republic of China
Press Release

For Immediate Release: December 28, 2022
Contact: Media Relations
(404) 639-3286

CDC is announcing today that it will implement a requirement for a negative COVID-19 test or documentation of recovery for air passengers boarding flights to the United States originating from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Special Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macau. CDC is announcing this step to slow the spread of COVID-19 in the United States during the surge in COVID-19 cases in the PRC given the lack of adequate and transparent epidemiological and viral genomic sequence data being reported from the PRC. These data are critical to monitor the case surge effectively and decrease the chance for entry of a novel variant of concern.  CDC will continue to monitor the situation and adjust our approach as necessary.

Variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus continue to emerge in countries around the world. However, reduced testing and case reporting in the PRC and minimal sharing of viral genomic sequence data could delay the identification of new variants of concern if they arise. Pre-departure testing and the requirement to show a negative test result has been shown to decrease the number of infected passengers boarding airplanes, and it will help to slow the spread of the virus as we work to identify and understand any potential new variants that may emerge.

Starting at 12:01 AM ET on January 5, all air passengers two years and older originating from the PRC will be required to get a test (such as a PCR test or an antigen self-test administered and monitored by a telehealth service or a licensed provider and authorized by the Food and Drug Administration or the relevant national authority) no more than 2 days before their departure from the PRC, Hong Kong, or Macau, and show a negative test result to the airline upon departure.

  • The requirement applies to these air passengers regardless of nationality and vaccination status.
  • This will also apply to persons traveling from the PRC via third country transit and to passengers connecting through the United States onward to further destinations.
  • Along with applying this requirement to direct flights from the PRC, passengers transiting Incheon International Airport, Toronto Pearson International Airport, and Vancouver International Airport on their way to the United States will be required to provide a negative COVID-19 test if they have been in the PRC in the last 10 days no more than 2 days before their departure to the United States. These three transit hubs cover the overwhelming majority of passengers with travel originating in the PRC and the Special Administrative Regions. We will continue to monitor travel patterns, adjust our approach as needed, and keep Americans informed in a timely manner.
  • Passengers who tested positive more than 10 days before the flight can provide documentation of recovery from COVID-19 in lieu of a negative test result.
  • Airlines must confirm the negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery for all passengers before they board or deny boarding to the passenger.

CDC is also expanding the Traveler-based Genomic Surveillance program (TGS), a voluntary program that serves as an early warning system to detect and characterize new and rare variants of the virus that causes COVID-19.  TGS collects anonymous nasal swabs from arriving international travelers on selected flights at major U.S. international airports. The program tests for presence of the COVID-19 virus, and if it is detected, the program sequences the virus’s genome to identify any new variants. The program is expanding by adding additional airports (Los Angeles and Seattle)—bringing the total number of airports to seven and number of weekly flights covered to approximately 500 from at least 30 countries across all World Health Organization (WHO) regions.  This includes approximately 290 weekly flights from PRC and surrounding areas.

TGS has proven to overcome gaps in global SARS-CoV-2 variant surveillance that occur as many countries decrease or discontinue testing and sequencing. During the initial weeks of the Omicron surge, TGS detected two Omicron subvariants, BA.2 and BA.3, and reported them to the global database weeks before they were reported elsewhere, demonstrating that the program is able to detect variants early.

The approach laid out, when layered with existing CDC recommendations such as masking during travel, self-monitoring for symptoms, and testing for three days after arrival from international travel, will help make travel safer, healthier, and more responsible by reducing spread on planes, in airports, and at destinations and to be on alert for any potential variants emerging. Our new testing policy, along with expansion of TGS, will help to protect travelers and the health and safety of American communities.

CDC also continues to work with WHO and partner countries to enhance sequencing capacity and improve the global capacity to detect new variants.

This order will become effective on January 5, 2023, at 12:01 AM ET. More information will be made available by CDC in the coming days. For a list of authorized tests, check here.

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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES



Source: https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2022/p1228-COVID-china.html

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24.08.2022

International Travel to and from the United States


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ALL TRAVELERS


This page is for all international travelers including U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, U.S. lawful permanent residents, immigrants, and non-U.S. citizens who are not U.S. immigrants.
On This Page


What You Need to Know



Land Travel

For information about COVID-19 requirements for land travel and at ferry terminals, visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Fact Sheet: Guidance for Travelers to Enter the U.S. at Land Ports of Entry and Ferry Terminals.

Before You Leave the United States


Make sure to plan ahead:

  • Get up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines before you travel.
  • Follow all requirements of transportation operators (such as airlines, cruise lines, buses) and any requirements, including mask wearing, proof of vaccination, or testing at your destination.
    • Requirements in other countries may differ from U.S. requirements. If you do not follow your destination’s requirements, you may be denied entry and required to return to the United States.
  • If you have a weakened immune system or are at increased risk for severe disease, take multiple prevention steps to provide additional layers of protection from COVID-19 even if you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines.
    • Talk to your healthcare provider about your risk before travel and consider delaying travel to areas with high COVID-19 levels. Even if you are up to date, you should know what precautions to take.
  • If you will be visiting someone who is at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19, learn how to protect them.

Testing

   RECOMMENDED

Can I travel if ...?

I am sick with or tested positive for COVID-19 and am recommended to isolate.

  • Do NOT travel.
  • Follow recommendations for isolation.


I have ended isolation but still need to continue wearing my mask per CDC’s guidance.

  • Do not travel on public transportation such as airplanes, buses, and trains if you will not be able to wear a high-quality mask or respirator when around others indoors for the full duration of your trip.
  • If you travel, wear a high-quality mask or respirator the entire time you are around others indoors.
  • Traveling by private vehicle (if possible) can lower the chances of spreading COVID-19 to others.


I was exposed to a person with COVID-19 in the past 10 days.

  • Follow CDC guidance, including getting tested at least 5 full days after your last exposure.
  • Do not travel on public transportation such as airplanes, buses, and trains if you will not be able to wear a high-quality mask or respirator when around others indoors for the full duration of your trip.
  • If you travel, wear a high-quality mask or respirator the entire time you are around others indoors.
  • Traveling by private vehicle (if possible) can lower the chances of spreading COVID-19 to others.


Top of Page

During Travel

Protect Yourself and Others


   RECOMMENDED


Top of Page

Before You Travel to the United States

Contact Information – ALL Travelers

   REQUIRED

All air passengers to the United States are required to provide contact information to airlines before boarding flights to the United States.

  • This strengthens a travel process already in place to rapidly identify and contact people in the U.S. who may have been exposed to a communicable disease, such as COVID-19.
  • Access to travelers’ contact information will allow U.S. federal, state, territorial and local health departments, and agencies to share appropriate health and public health information necessary to help keep the public safe.

Testing – ALL Travelers

   RECOMMENDED

  • Consider getting tested with a viral test as close to the time of departure as possible (no more than 3 days) before travel.
  • Make sure you know your test results before travel.
    • Don’t travel if your test result is positive.


Non-U.S. Citizen, Non-U.S. Immigrants

Proof of Vaccination

REQUIRED

Air Travel: All non-U.S. citizen, non-U.S. immigrants traveling to the United States by air are required to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Only limited exceptions apply. Learn more about this requirement and accepted vaccines.

If you are not fully vaccinated and allowed to travel to the United States by air through an exception, you will be required to sign an attestation (legal statement) before you board your flight to the United States stating you meet the exception. Depending on the type of exception, you may also have to state you have arranged to take certain protective measures.

For more information see Requirement for Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination for Air Passengers.
Top of Page

After Arrival in the United States


ALL Travelers

   RECOMMENDED

If Your Test Result is Positive or You Develop COVID-19 Symptoms

Isolate yourself to protect others from getting infected. Learn what to do and when it is safe to be around others.

Non-U.S. Citizen, Non-U.S. immigrants who are not fully vaccinated and allowed to travel to the United States by air through an exception must follow requirements of the attestation they signed before boarding their flight. For more information, see Requirement for Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination for Air Passengers.
Top of Page
Summary of Recent Changes
Updates as of April 18, 2022

  • As a result of a court order, effective immediately and as of April 18, 2022, CDC’s January 29, 2021 Order requiring masks on public transportation conveyances and at transportation hubs is no longer in effect. Therefore, CDC will not enforce the Order. CDC continues to recommend that people wear high-quality masks in indoor public transportation settings at this time.

More Information


______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

27.01.2022

Non-U.S. Citizen, Non-U.S. Immigrants: Travel to and from the United States


What You Need to Know

  • Make sure you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines before you travel internationally.
  • You mustbe fully vaccinated with the primary series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to travel to the United States by plane if you are a non-U.S. citizen, non-U.S. immigrant (not a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident, or traveling to the United States on an immigrant visa). Only limited exceptions apply.
  • You are required to show a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 when you travel to the United States by air.
  • Wearing a mask over your nose and mouth is required in indoor areas of public transportation (including airplanes) traveling into, within, or out of the United States and indoors in U.S. transportation hubs (including airports).

U.S. Citizens, U.S. Nationals, Lawful Permanent Residents, and Immigrants

If you are a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident, or immigrant, visit U.S. Citizens, U.S. Nationals, Lawful Permanent Residents, and Immigrants: Travel to and from the United States for requirements before arriving in the United States.


Find out what is required when traveling to the United States by air.

Make sure you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines before you travel internationally. Getting vaccinated is still the best way to protect yourself from severe disease and slow the spread of COVID-19. People who are not vaccinated and up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines should follow additional recommendations before, during, and after travel.

If you are a non-U.S. citizen, non-U.S. immigrant and not fully vaccinated, you will not be allowed to enter the United States. Only limited exceptions apply to the requirement to show proof of vaccination. A booster dose is not needed to meet this requirement.

Are You Fully Vaccinated for Travel to the United States?

You are considered fully vaccinated:

  • 2 weeks (14 days) after your dose of an accepted single-dose vaccine
  • 2 weeks (14 days) after your second dose of an accepted 2-dose series
  • 2 weeks (14 days) after you received the full series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine (not placebo) in a clinical trial
  • 2 weeks (14 days) after you received 2 doses of any “mix-and-match” combination of accepted COVID-19 vaccinesadministered at least 17 days apart*

If you don’t meet these requirements, you are NOT considered fully vaccinated to travel to the United States. A booster dose is not needed to meet this requirement.

A person who has received only one dose of an accepted 2-dose series and has recovered from COVID-19 does not meet this definition, and therefore is NOT considered fully vaccinated for travel to the United States.

*CDC has not recommended the use of mix-and-match COVID-19 vaccine primary series. However, such strategies are increasingly common in many countries outside of the United States. Therefore, for the purpose of interpreting vaccination records for travel to the United States, CDC will accept combinations of accepted COVID-19 vaccines.

Before You Leave the United States

Make sure to plan ahead:

  • Check the current COVID-19 situation at your destination.
  • Follow all requirements of conveyance operators (such as airlines, cruise lines, buses) as well as any requirements at your destinationexternal icon, whether traveling by air, land, or sea, including mask wearing, proof of vaccination, testing, or quarantine. Requirements may differ from U.S. requirements. If you do not follow your destination’s requirements, you may be denied entry and required to return to the United States.

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Testing

   RECOMMENDED

Do NOT travel if…

  • You are sick.
  • You tested positivefor COVID-19.
    • Do not travel until a full 10 days after your symptoms started or the date your positive test was taken if you had no symptoms.
  • You are waiting for results of a COVID-19 test.
  • You had close contact with a person with COVID-19 and are recommendedto quarantine.
    • Do not travel until a full 5 days after your last close contact with the person with COVID-19. It is best to avoid travel for a full 10 days after your last exposure.
    • If you must travel during days 6 through 10 after your last exposure:
      • Get testedat least 5 days after your last close contact. Make sure your test result is negative and you remain without symptoms before traveling. If you don’t get tested, avoid travel until a full 10 days after your last close contact with a person with COVID-19.
      • Properly wear a well-fitting maskwhen you are around others for the entire duration of travel during days 6 through 10. If you are unable to wear a mask, you should not travel during days 6 through 10.

If you had close contact with a person with COVID-19 but are NOT recommended to quarantine...

    • Get testedat least 5 days after your last close contact. Make sure your test result is negative and you remain without symptoms before traveling.
    • If you travel during the 10 days after your last exposure, properly wear a well-fitting maskwhen you are around others for the entire duration of travel during the 10 days. If you are unable to wear a mask, you should not travel during the 10 days.

During Travel

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Masks

   REQUIRED

  • Wearing a mask over your nose and mouth is requiredin indoor areas of public transportation (including on airplanes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation) traveling into, within, or out of the United States and indoors in U.S. transportation hubs (including airports and stations). Travelers are not required to wear a mask in outdoor areas of a conveyance (like on open deck areas of a ferry or the uncovered top deck of a bus).

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Protect Yourself and Others

   RECOMMENDED

Top of Page

Before You Travel to the United States

Land Travel

For information about COVID-19 requirements for land travel, visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Fact Sheet: Guidance for Travelers to Enter the U.S. at Land Ports of Entry and Ferry Terminals.external icon

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Proof of Vaccination

   REQUIRED

Air Travel: All non-U.S. citizen, non-U.S. immigrants traveling to the United States by air are required to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Only limited exceptions apply. Learn more about this requirement.

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Testing – ALL Travelers

   REQUIRED

Before boarding a flight to the United States, you are required to show a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than 1 day before travel. There is also an option for people who have documented recovery from COVID-19 in the past 90 days.

Children under 2 years old do not need to test.

Learn more about these requirements.

phone icon

Contact Information – ALL Travelers

   REQUIRED

All air passengers to the United States will also be required to provide contact information to airlines before boarding flights to the United States. This strengthens a travel process already in place to rapidly identify and contact people in the U.S. who may have been exposed to a communicable disease, such as COVID-19. Access to travelers’ contact information will allow U.S. federal, state, and local health departments, and agencies to share appropriate health and public health information necessary to help keep the public safe.

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Documentation

   REQUIRED

As a reminder, be sure to have your required documents, such as your passport and any visa or other entry/residency documentation. All Visa Waiver Program travelers must have a valid, approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) for travel to the United States. The United States Government recommends travelers log in and review their ESTA status in advance of travel. Visit https://esta.cbp.dhs.govexternal icon for more information.

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After Arrival in the United States

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If you are not fully vaccinated and allowed to travel to the United States by air through an exception, you may be required to attest to some or all of the following measures.

For more information see Requirement for Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination for Air Passengers

   REQUIRED

  • Get tested with a viral test3-5 days after arrival, unless you have documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 in the past 90 days.
  • Stay at home or in your hotel room and self-quarantine for a full 7 days, even if you test negative, unless you have documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 in the past 90 days.
  • Isolateif your test result is positive or you develop COVID-19 symptoms.
  • If you intend to stay in the United States for 60 days or longer, you must become fully vaccinated against COVID-19 within 60 days of arriving in the United States or as soon as medically appropriate, unless you have a medical contraindication or are too young to be vaccinated.

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If you are fully vaccinated but not up to date with your vaccines

   RECOMMENDED

  • Stay home and self-quarantine for a full 5 daysafter travel.
  • Follow additional recommendations below for ALL travelers.

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For ALL Travelers

   RECOMMENDED

If Your Test Result is Positive or You Develop COVID-19 Symptoms

Isolate yourself to protect others from getting infected. Learn what to do and when it is safe to be around others.

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If You Recovered from COVID-19 Recently

If you recovered from a documented COVID-19 infection within the past 90 days (regardless of vaccination status), you do NOT need to get a test 3-5 days after travel. You also do not need to self-quarantine after travel. If you develop COVID-19 symptoms after travel, isolate and consult with a healthcare provider for testing recommendations.

More Information



U.S Citizens, U.S. Nationals, U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents, and Immigrants: Travel to and from the United States




What You Need to Know


  • Make sure you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines before you travel internationally.
  • Check your destination’s COVID-19 situation and travel requirements before traveling. Countries may have their own entry and exit requirements.
  • When you travel to the United States by air, you are required to show a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 before you board your flight.
  • Wearing a mask over your nose and mouth is required in indoor areas of public transportation (including airplanes) traveling into, within, or out of the United States and indoors in U.S. transportation hubs (including airports).

Non-U.S. Citizen, Non-U.S. Immigrants

If you are a non-U.S. citizen, non-U.S. immigrant (not a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident, or immigrant) traveling to the United States, visit Non-U.S. Citizen, Non-U.S. Immigrants: Travel to and from the United States for requirements before boarding a flight to the United States.

Find out what is required before traveling to the United States by air.

Make sure you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines before you travel internationally. Getting vaccinated is still the best way to protect yourself from severe disease and slow the spread of COVID-19. People who are not vaccinated and up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines should follow additional recommendations before, during, and after travel.

Before You Leave the United States

Make sure to plan ahead:

  • Check the current COVID-19 situation at your destination.
  • Follow all requirements of conveyance operators (such as airlines, cruise lines, buses) as well as any requirements at your destinationexternal icon, whether traveling by air, land, or sea, including mask wearing, proof of vaccination, testing, or quarantine. Requirements may differ from U.S. requirements. If you do not follow your destination’s requirements, you may be denied entry and required to return to the United States.

vial light icon

Testing


   RECOMMENDED

Do NOT travel if…

  • You are sick.
  • You tested positive for COVID-19.
    • Do not travel until a full 10 days after your symptoms started or the date your positive test was taken if you had no symptoms.
  • You are waiting for results of a COVID-19 test.
  • You had close contact with a person with COVID-19 and are recommended to quarantine.
    • Do not travel until a full 5 days after your last close contact with the person with COVID-19. It is best to avoid travel for a full 10 days after your last exposure.
    • If you must travel during days 6 through 10 after your last exposure:
      • Get tested at least 5 days after your last close contact. Make sure your test result is negative and you remain without symptoms before traveling. If you don’t get tested, avoid travel until a full 10 days after your last close contact with a person with COVID-19.
      • Properly wear a well-fitting mask when you are around others for the entire duration of travel during days 6 through 10. If you are unable to wear a mask, you should not travel during days 6 through 10.

If you had close contact with a person with COVID-19 but are NOT recommended to quarantine...

    • Get tested at least 5 days after your last close contact. Make sure your test result is negative and you remain without symptoms before traveling.
    • If you travel during the 10 days after your last exposure, properly wear a well-fitting mask when you are around others for the entire duration of travel during the 10 days. If you are unable to wear a mask, you should not travel during the 10 days.

Top of Page

During Travel


head side mask light icon

Masks


   REQUIRED

  • Wearing a mask over your nose and mouth is required in indoor areas of public transportation (including on airplanes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation) traveling into, within, or out of the United States and indoors in U.S. transportation hubs (including airports and stations). Travelers are not required to wear a mask in outdoor areas of a conveyance (like on open deck areas of a ferry or the uncovered top deck of a bus).



Protect Yourself and Others


   RECOMMENDED


Top of Page

Before Traveling to the United States


Land Travel

For information about COVID-19 requirements for land travel, visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Fact Sheet: Guidance for Travelers to Enter the U.S. at Land Ports of Entry and Ferry Terminalsexternal icon.
vial light icon

Testing – ALL Travelers


   REQUIRED

Before boarding a flight to the United States, you are required to show a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than 1 day before travel. There is also an option for people who have documented recovery from COVID-19 in the past 90 days.

Children under 2 years old do not need to test.

Learn more about these requirements.
phone icon

Contact Information – ALL Travelers


   REQUIRED

All air passengers to the United States will also be required to provide contact information to airlines before boarding flights to the United States. This strengthens a travel process already in place to rapidly identify and contact people in the U.S. who may have been exposed to a communicable disease, such as COVID-19. Access to travelers’ contact information will allow U.S. federal, state, and local health departments, and agencies to share appropriate health and public health information necessary to help keep the public safe.
Top of Page

After Arrival in the United States

You might have been exposed to COVID-19 on your travels, whether you traveled by air, land, or sea. You might feel well and not have any symptoms, but you can still be infected and spread the virus to others. For this reason, CDC recommends the following:
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If You Are NOT Vaccinated and Up to Date with your COVID-19 Vaccines


   RECOMMENDED

  • Stay home and self-quarantine for a full 5 days after travel.
  • Follow additional recommendations below for ALL travelers.


ALL Travelers


   RECOMMENDED

If Your Test Result is Positive or You Develop COVID-19 Symptoms

Isolate yourself to protect others from getting infected. Learn what to do and when it is safe to be around others.
info square light icon

If You Recovered from COVID-19 Recently

If you recovered from a documented COVID-19 infection within the past 90 days (regardless of vaccination status), you do NOT need to get a test 3-5 days after travel. You also do not need to self-quarantine after travel. If you develop COVID-19 symptoms after travel, isolate and consult with a healthcare provider for testing recommendations.

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01.12.2021

Passports and Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Learn the rules and recommendations for traveling to, from, and around the U.S. during the COVID-19 pandemic. Find information on changes to passport processing.

COVID-19 International Travel Advisories

COVID-19 international travel rules change frequently. Check with the Department of State for travel advisories and get recommendations from the CDC before making any international travel plans to or from the U.S.

    • As of November 8, 2021, all non-U.S. citizen, Non-U.S. immigrant international travelers coming to the U.S. by air must be vaccinated against COVID-19. Accepted vaccines include FDA-approved or authorized or WHO Emergency Use Listing vaccines.
    • All air passengers age two and older traveling to the U.S. must be tested for COVID-19 no more than three days before their flight. This rule includes U.S. citizens and everyone who has already been vaccinated. Travelers must show proof of their negative results before boarding their plane.
      • Beginning on December 6, 2021 If you plan to travel internationally, you will need to get a COVID-19 viral test (regardless of vaccination status or citizenship) no more than 1 day before you travel by air into the United States. You must show your negative result to the airline before you board your flight.

  • U.S. citizens traveling to the U.S. by land or sea aren't required to get tested for COVID-19 or show their vaccination status before entering the U.S. Check with the U.S. embassy travel fact sheets for Canada and Mexico to stay aware of updates to travel requirements. Also check the COVID-19 rules in the city or state where you are entering the U.S. 

U.S. Travel During COVID-19

If you're traveling within the U.S. during the COVID-19 pandemic, be aware of safety guidelines and travel restrictions for the area you want to visit.

Tips for Traveling Within the U.S. During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has created a list of things to consider for vaccinated and unvaccinated people before traveling within the U.S. during the pandemic. 

Check the state government and state health department websites of the place you want to visit. Some things to look for are:

  • A coronavirus cases-by-county map

  • The state’s masking guidelines

  • Any restrictions on out-of-state visitors. There may be limits on who can enter and/or a 14-day self-quarantine requirement.

In some states, additional rules are being made at the city or county level, so check the local government website too.

Many museums, aquariums, and zoos have restricted access or are closed during the pandemic. And many recreational areas including National Parks have COVID-19 restrictions and mask-wearing rules. Check with your destination for the latest information.

_____________________________________________________________________________

08.11.2021

Passports and Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Learn the rules and recommendations for traveling to, from, and around the U.S. during the COVID-19 pandemic. Find information on changes to passport processing.

On This Page


COVID-19 International Travel Advisories

COVID-19 international travel rules change frequently. Check with the Department of State for travel advisories and get recommendations from the CDC before making any international travel plans to or from the U.S.

  • U.S. citizens traveling to the U.S. by land or sea aren't required to get tested for COVID-19 or show their vaccination status before entering the U.S.  Check with the U.S. embassy travel fact sheets for Canada and Mexico to stay aware of updates to travel requirements. Also check the COVID-19 rules in the city or state where you are entering the U.S. 

U.S. Travel During COVID-19

If you're traveling within the U.S. during the COVID-19 pandemic, be aware of safety guidelines and travel restrictions for the area you want to visit.

Tips for Traveling Within the U.S. During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has created a list of things to consider for vaccinated and unvaccinated people before traveling within the U.S. during the pandemic. 

Check the state government and state health department websites of the place you want to visit. Some things to look for are:

  • A coronavirus cases-by-county map

  • The state’s masking guidelines

  • Any restrictions on out-of-state visitors. There may be limits on who can enter and/or a 14-day self-quarantine requirement.

In some states, additional rules are being made at the city or county level, so check the local government website too.

Many museums, aquariums, and zoos have restricted access or are closed during the pandemic. And many recreational areas including National Parks have COVID-19 restrictions and mask-wearing rules. Check with your destination for the latest information.

Source: https://www.usa.gov/covid-passports-and-travel

Source: World Tourism Organization UNWTO

26.10.2022

1. Passengers entering or transiting through the USA must have a COVID-19 vaccination certificate showing that they were fully vaccinated at least 15 days (day of vaccination + 14 days) before arrival. Passenger details (e.g., name and date of birth) in the certificate must match those stated in the passport/travel document. Vaccines accepted are:
- AstraZeneca (SK Bioscience), AstraZeneca (Vaxzevria), CanSinoBIO (Convidecia), Covaxin, Covishield, Covovax, Janssen, Moderna (Spikevax), Nuvaxovid (Novavax), Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty), Sinopharm (BIBP) and Sinovac. A combination of these vaccines is accepted if administered at least 17 days apart. More details can be found at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/international-travel-during-covid19.html
This does not apply to:
- nationals of the USA;
- residents of the USA;
- passengers younger than 18;
- passengers with an immigrant visa;
- passengers with the following visas: A-1, A-2, C-2, C-3 (as a foreign government official or immediate family member of an official), E-1 (as an employee of TECRO or TECO or the employee\'s immediate family members), G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, NATO-1 through NATO-4, or NATO-6 (or seeking to enter as a nonimmigrant in one of those NATO classifications);
- passengers with a letter of invitation or other official document, issued by the USA, by other government or by the United Nations, traveling on duty;
- nationals of Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Congo (Dem. Rep.), Eritrea, Haiti, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Senegal, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania and Yemen with a visa issued by the USA, excluding B -1 and B -2 visas;
- members of the U.S. Armed Forces, their spouses, and children younger than 18 years;
- merchant seamen with one of the following visas: C, D, C1/D, B1, H or L;
- nationals of Ukraine with an approved Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) authorization.
- More details can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/proof-of-vaccination.html .

2. Passengers must complete an attestation form before departure. The form can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/quarantine/order-safe-travel.html .
- This does not apply to:
- nationals and residents of the USA;
- passengers younger than 2 years.

3. Passengers are subject to COVID-19 measures set by the state/territory of their final destination. More information can be found at www.cdc.gov/publichealthgateway/healthdirectories/healthdepartments.html

4. DV visas issued in September 2020 that expired are accepted for entry.

5. Passengers could be subject to self-isolation.
- This does not apply to:
- passengers with a COVID-19 recovery certificate proving recovery in the past 90 days;
- passengers with a COVID-19 vaccination certificate showing that they were fully vaccinated at least 15 days (day of vaccination + 14 days) before arrival. Passenger details (e.g., name and date of birth) in the certificate must match those stated in the passport/travel document.
Vaccines accepted are:
- AstraZeneca (SK Bioscience), AstraZeneca (Vaxzevria), CanSinoBIO (Convidecia), Covaxin, Covishield, Covovax, Janssen, Moderna (Spikevax), Nuvaxovid (Novavax), Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty), Sinopharm (BIBP) and Sinovac. A combination of these vaccines is accepted if administered at least 17 days apart. More details can be found at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/international-travel-during-covid19.html



_______________________________________________________________________________________

29.06.2022


Source: Source: https://www.unwto.org/tourism-data/unwto-iata-destination-tracker-easy-travel




Source: DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION (CDC)

20.09.2021

Order: Requirement for Proof of Negative COVID-19 Test Result or Recovery from COVID-19 for All Airline Passengers Arriving into the United States


The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued an Order on January 12, 2021 requiring proof of a negative COVID-19 test or documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 for all air passengers arriving from a foreign country to the US. On January 25, 2021, CDC posted a revision to this order. This Order is effective as of January 26, 2021 and was published in the Federal Registerexternal icon on January 28, 2021.

To view the order, click here pdf icon[PDF – 9 pages].

To see the passenger attestation, visit the Attestation pdf icon[PDF – 3 pages].

Fillable Attestation:

For frequently asked questions, visit the FAQs.

Airline Checklist: How to Verify Negative Qualifying Test Results or Documentation of Recovery from COVID-19 for CDC’s Order pdf icon[PDF – 2 pages]


COVID-19 International Travel Advisories

COVID-19 international travel rules change frequently. Check with the Department of State for travel advisories and get recommendations from the CDC before making any international travel plans to or from the U.S.

____________________________________________________________________________________-

10.06.2021

Travel

Vaccinated and Traveling?

See CDC’s latest recommendations for travel in the U.S.



International Travel During COVID-19


Updated June 10, 2021

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On This Page


Do not travel internationally until you are fully vaccinated. If you are not fully vaccinated and must travel, follow CDC’s international travel recommendations for unvaccinated people.

Fully vaccinated travelers are less likely to get and spread COVID-19. However, international travel poses additional risks, and even fully vaccinated travelers might be at increased risk for getting and possibly spreading some COVID-19 variants.

The COVID-19 situation, including the spread of new or concerning variants, differs from country to country. All travelers need to pay close attention to the conditions at their destination before traveling.

CDC will update these recommendations as more people get vaccinated, as rates of COVID-19 change, and as additional scientific evidence becomes available.

Recommendations For Fully Vaccinated People

Have You Been Fully Vaccinated?

People are considered fully vaccinated*:

  • 2 weeks after their second dose in a 2-dose series, such as the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or
  • 2 weeks after a single-dose vaccine, such as Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine

If you don’t meet these requirements, you are NOT fully vaccinated. Keep taking all precautions until you are fully vaccinated.

If you have a condition or are taking medication that weakens your immune system, you may NOT be fully protected even if you are fully vaccinated. Talk to your healthcare provider. Even after vaccination, you may need to continue taking all precautions.

  • Before you travel
    • Make sure you understand and follow all airline and destination requirements related to travel, mask wearing, testing, or quarantine, which may differ from U.S. requirements. If you do not follow your destination’s requirements, you may be denied entry and required to return to the United States.
    • Check the current COVID-19 situation in your destination.
  • During traveling:
    • Wearing a mask over your nose and mouth is required on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States and while indoors at U.S. transportation hubs such as airports and stations. Travelers are not required to wear a mask in outdoor areas of a conveyance (like on open deck areas of a ferry or the uncovered top deck of a bus).
    • Follow all recommendations and requirements at your destination, including mask wearing and social distancing
  • Before you arrive in the United States:
    • All air passengers coming to the United States, including U.S. citizens and fully vaccinated people, are required to have a negative COVID-19 test result no more than 3 days before travel or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 in the past 3 months before they board a flight to the United States.
  • After travel:
    • Get tested with a viral test 3-5 days after travel.
    • Self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms; isolate and get tested if you develop symptoms.
    • Follow all state and local recommendations or requirements after travel.

Recommendations For Unvaccinated People

If you are not fully vaccinated and must travel, take the following steps to protect yourself and others from COVID-19:

  • Before you travel:
    • Get tested with a viral test 1-3 days before your trip.
    • Make sure you understand and follow all airline and destination requirements related to travel, testing, or quarantine, which may differ from U.S. requirements. If you do not follow your destination’s requirements, you may be denied entry and required to return to the United States.
    • Check the COVID-19 situation in your destination.
  • While you are traveling:
    • Wearing a mask over your nose and mouth is required on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States and while indoors at U.S. transportation hubs such as airports and stations. Travelers are not required to wear a mask in outdoor areas of a conveyance (like on open deck areas of a ferry or the uncovered top deck of a bus). CDC recommends that travelers who are not fully vaccinated continue to wear a mask and maintain physical distance when traveling.
    • Avoid crowds and stay at least 6 feet/2 meters (about 2 arm lengths) from anyone who is not traveling with you.
    • Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol).
  • Before you arrive in the United States:
    • All air passengers coming to the United States, including U.S. citizens and fully vaccinated people, are required to have a negative COVID-19 viral test result no more than 3 days before travel or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 in the past 3 months before they board a flight to the United States.
  • After you travel:
    • Get tested with a viral test 3-5 days after travel AND stay home and self-quarantine for a full 7 days after travel.
      • Even if you test negative, stay home and self-quarantine for the full 7 days.
      • If your test is positive, isolate yourself to protect others from getting infected.
    • If you don’t get tested, stay home and self-quarantine for 10 days after travel.
    • Avoid being around people who are at increased risk for severe illness for 14 days, whether you get tested or not.
    • Self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms; isolate and get tested if you develop symptoms.
    • Follow all state and local recommendations or requirements.
  • Visit your state, territorial, tribal, and localexternal icon health department’s website to look for the latest information on where to get tested.

Do NOT travel if you were exposed to COVID-19, you are sick, you test positive for COVID-19, or you are waiting for results of a COVID-19 test. Learn when it is safe for you to travel. Don’t travel with someone who is sick.

International Travel Recommendations Quick Reference

alternative text for web accessible infographic

International Travel Quick Reference

Check Travel Restrictions

If traveling internationally, check with your destination’s Office of Foreign Affairs or Ministry of Health or the US Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs, Country Information pageexternal icon for details about entry requirements and restrictions for arriving travelers. Follow all entry requirements for your destination and provide any required or requested health information. If you do not follow your destination’s requirements, you may be denied entry and required to return to the United States.

If traveling by air, check if your airline requires any health information, testing, or other documents. If traveling internationally, you must get a COVID-19 test no more than 3 days before you return by air to the United States. You are required to show a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 before boarding a flight to the United States.

Information for people who recently recovered from COVID-19

If you recovered from a documented COVID-19 infection within the last 3 months, follow all requirements and recommendations for fully vaccinated travelers except you do NOT need to get a test 3-5 days after travel unless you are symptomatic. People can continue to test positive for up to 3 months after diagnosis and not be infectious to others.

* This guidance applies to COVID-19 vaccines currently authorized for emergency use by the Food and Drug Administration: Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and Johnson and Johnson (J&J)/Janssen COVID-19 vaccines. This guidance can also be applied to COVID-19 vaccines that have been authorized for emergency use by the World Health Organization (e.g. AstraZeneca/Oxford). See WHO’s websiteexternal icon for more information about WHO-authorized COVID-19 vaccines.


Further information: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/international-travel-during-covid19.html

The White House

25.01.2021

Proclamation on the Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Non-Immigrants of Certain Additional Persons Who Pose a Risk of Transmitting Coronavirus Disease

Extract:

Section 1.  Suspension and Limitation on Entry.  (a)  The entry into the United States, as immigrants or nonimmigrants, of noncitizens who were physically present within the Schengen Area, the United Kingdom (excluding overseas territories outside of Europe), the Republic of Ireland, and the Federative Republic of Brazil during the 14-day period preceding their entry or attempted entry into the United States, is hereby suspended and limited subject to section 2 of this proclamation.
(b)  The entry into the United States, as immigrants or nonimmigrants, of noncitizens who were physically present within the Republic of South Africa during the 14-day period preceding their entry or attempted entry into the United States, is hereby suspended and limited subject to section 2 of this proclamation.


 https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/25/proclamation-on-the-suspension-of-entry-as-immigrants-and-non-immigrants-of-certain-additional-persons-who-pose-a-risk-of-transmitting-coronavirus-disease/

Source: WCO/U.S. Customs and Border Protection

14.09.2020

Several Presidential proclamations established restrictions on the entry of certain travelers into the United States in an effort to help slow the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

plane solid icon

With specific exceptions, foreign nationals who have been in any of the following countries during the past 14 days may not enter the United States. For a full list of exceptions, please refer to the relevant proclamations in the links below.

  • China
  • Iran
  • European Schengen area (Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, San Marino, Vatican City)
  • United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)
  • Republic of Ireland
  • Brazil

As further provided in each proclamation, citizens and lawful permanent residents of the United States, certain family members, and other individuals who meet specified exceptionsexternal icon, who have been in one of the countries listed above in the past 14 days will be allowed to enter the United States. More information about what to do after arriving to the United States is available on CDC’s After You Travel webpage.


Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/from-other-countries.html#print

                                                                                                   

24.03.2020

Legislative Powers (i.e. on matters such as imposed quarantine):

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has the relevant authorities for the COVID-19 response.
See Title 42, United States Code (U.S.C.). The authority for the presidential proclamations is 8
U.S.C. § 1182(f). The authorities for flight funneling are 19 U.S.C. 1433(c), 19 Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR) 122.32, 49 U.S.C. 114, and 49 CFR 1544.305 and 1546.105. The authorities
for “essential travel” are 19 U.S.C. 1318(b)(1)(C) and (b)(2), and 42 U.S.C.

Arrival Restrictions and Quarantine Arrangements:

Please see the Presidential Proclamation (https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidentialactions/proclamation-suspension-entry-immigrants-nonimmigrants-certain-additional-personspose-risk-transmitting-coronavirus/) and information on arrival restrictions at the DHS website
(https://www.dhs.gov/publication/notices-arrival-restrictions-coronavirus).
The CDC is working with state and local public health partners to implement after-travel health
precautions. Depending on a person’s travel history, that person could be asked to stay home
for a period of 14 days from the time the person left an area with widespread or ongoing
community spread.

Information on travellers returning from high-risk countries can be found on the CDC website
(https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/after-travel-precautions.html).

In Country Visa Issues:
Inquiries received from non-immigrant travellers in-country whose visas are nearing expiration
are referred to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Public Health Advice:
The CDC provides official public health advice on COVID-19. Information is available on the
CDC website (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html).

Industry Engagement:
CBP continues to engage with CDC and Industry Stakeholders in order to continue the flow of
legitimate trade and travel into and out of the United States.

Planning:
CBP has national pandemic plans and continuity of operations plans in place. CBP has
appropriate PPE at all ports, stations, air branches, and at all operational locations globally.

CBP has a Safety and Occupational Health Specialist located in every Field Office and Sector to
assist operational components complete the mission of CBP while ensuring that CBP
employees remain safe. CBP has activated its Emergency Operations Center to assist in the
execution of the CBP response to the COVID-19 outbreak. This 24/7 activity integrates
representatives from all offices to manage emergency response assets and coordinate
information and resources.

For the most up to date information, visit the DHS website (https://www.dhs.gov/coronavirus)
and CBP homepage (https://www.cbp.gov/).




Remarks from the International Road Transport Union

04.05.2023

USA: Lifting of vaccine mandate for foreign nationals entering the country


Beginning 12 May 2023, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will no longer require non-U.S. travelers entering the United States via land ports of entry and ferry terminals to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and provide related proof of vaccination upon request. 

This means that Canadian and Mexican truck drivers that are unvaccinated can once again enter the U.S.

Source : ATA

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

02.12.2020

The U.S. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has extended the Emergency Declaration 2020-002 to February 28, 2021, continuing to exempt commercial vehicle operations from parts 390 through 399 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) in all fifty states and the District of Columbia to support direct emergency assistance for some supply chains supporting the response to COVID19.  The Emergency Declaration is also modified and expanded to include the transportation of vaccines and medical supplies and equipment related to the prevention of COVID19, subject to certain restrictions and limitations.  For more information please visit https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/emergency/expansion-and-extension-modified-emergency-declaration-no-2020-002-under-49-cfr-ss-39025.  

Source: IRU Washington

                                                                                                   

23.03.2020

Updated situation on Cross-Border Operations in North America (Canada, Mexico and USA)

IRU’s US freight member, ATA, has reported the following:

With effect from midnight, Friday 20 March, the US-Canada and US-Mexico border ports of entry have implemented a partial travel ban. This ban does not apply to trade or truck freight of any kind, nor to truck drivers from these three countries (providing the driver is in good health). Please see the highlights below, as well as the attached Federal Register notices.

US-Canada Joint Initiative COVID-19 Statement

US-Mexico Joint Initiative COVID-19 Statement

There have been reports of some Customs and Border Protection officers on the northern border informing drivers that, with effect from 23 March, their loads will not be considered “essential”. There are also reports that some loads have already been turned away for the same reason. ATA has been informed that ALL truck freight is essential, and if drivers are told otherwise then he or she must request the assistance of a supervisor. Furthermore, drivers commuting to work across the border, or persons crossing the border on foot to collect a load, are also permitted to cross.

If you receive reports from your drivers of any issues, please inform ATA immediately to inform the CBP. Field officers should be fully aware that all freight and all truck drivers are considered essential at this point.

Updated situation on Domestic Freight Operations in the United States of America.

On 18 March, the FMCSA released an updated Emergency Declaration for commercial motor vehicle operations providing direct assistance to COVID-19 relief efforts. The declaration can be located on the FMCSA’s website here.

In the update, the FMCSA provided new guidance on which operations are covered by the declaration, clarifying that fuel haulers are in fact included. The updated declaration also provides new guidance on “mixed load” operations.

“We thank Administrator Mullen and the Trump Administration for continued support to our industry as we deliver food, water, medicine, medical supplies, fuel and other essentials throughout this public health crisis,” said Dan Horvath, Vice President of Safety Policy at the American Trucking Associations. “The men and women of the trucking industry are heroes who remain on the front lines in this national effort.”

ATA encourages individuals to review the official declaration to determine whether their operations are included:

This Emergency Declaration provides regulatory relief for commercial motor vehicle operations providing direct assistance in support of emergency relief efforts related to the COVID-19 outbreaks, including transportation to meet immediate needs for: (1) medical supplies and equipment related to the testing, diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19; (2) supplies and equipment necessary for community safety, sanitation, and prevention of community transmission of COVID-19 such as masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, soap and disinfectants; (3) food, paper products and other groceries for emergency restocking of distribution centers or stores; (4) immediate precursor raw materials - such as paper, plastic or alcohol - that are required and to be used for the manufacture of items in categories (1), (2) or (3); (5) fuel; (6) equipment, supplies and persons necessary to establish and manage temporary housing, quarantine, and isolation facilities related to COVID-19; (7) persons designated by Federal, State or local authorities for medical, isolation, or quarantine purposes; and (8) persons necessary to provide other medical or emergency services, the supply of which may be affected by the COVID-19 response. Direct assistance does not include routine commercial deliveries, including mixed loads with a nominal quantity of qualifying emergency relief added to obtain the benefits of this emergency declaration.

Direct assistance terminates when a driver or commercial motor vehicle is used in interstate commerce to transport cargo or provide services that are not in support of emergency relief efforts related to the COVID-19 outbreaks or when the motor carrier dispatches a driver or commercial motor vehicle to another location to begin operations in commerce. 49 CFR § 390.23(b). Upon termination of direct assistance to emergency relief efforts related to the COVID-19 outbreaks, the motor carrier and driver are subject to the requirements of 49 CFR Parts 390 through 399, except that a driver may return empty to the motor carrier's terminal or the driver's normal work reporting location without complying with Parts 390 through 399.

Source: ATA


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UNECE Sustainable Transport Division