COVID-19 VACCINE AND TESTING REQUIREMENTS FOR TRAVEL TO THE UNITED STATES
The regulations for Covid-19 vaccines and testing in order to travel to the United States are constantly changing for citizens and immigrants alike. Our team at Voloshen Law believes in keeping you updated on the latest requirements so you can make your travel plans accordingly.
Travel During Covid-19 for Non-US Citizens; Non-US Immigrants
There are nitty-gritty details to traveling right now, but some simple rules apply and give you a pretty firm footing. Because of our immigration law experience at Voloshen, we know people who are not citizens can run into snags. . By following these, you’ll be able to make your reservations with confidence:
- Destination Requirements: In this case, we’re talking about coming to the US, but make sure the CDC and Federal regulations have no specifics based on your country of origin. Many countries have their own exit and entry rules (you want to get back home smoothly, too).
- Masks: Currently, well-fitted masks are required in all indoor areas of public transportation. This includes traveling within the US, too.
- Operator Requirements: Specialized operators like cruise ships may have different rules that, if not followed, could cause a denial of entry.
- Test Results: When traveling by air, you have to show a negative test before boarding your flight. Check to see about time frameworks (i.e. how many days beforehand can you take it). The average is no more than 1-3 days before your trip.
- Vaccine Card: Make sure your vaccines are up to date and bring your Covid-19 inoculation card. Some places will accept a cell phone image, but not all. If for some reason the vaccine is contraindicated for you, make sure to get documentation from your physician.
- Waivers: In some emergency situations, travelers may receive a waiver regarding vaccines and test results.
Also, use common sense. If you don’t feel well, don’t travel. Wait 10 days after receiving positive test results, and you have no symptoms, to go anywhere. Quaranteen yourself for five days if you’ve had close contact with a person who tested positive for Covid-19 until you get your test results.
NOTE: Children under the age of 2 traveling with you do not require testing.
Types of Covid19 Tests
There are three types of Covid Tests, only two of which are acceptable for travel.
- NAAT. Acceptable for travel. Other Names: PCR, Real-Time PCR, Molecular Test PCR, TMR.
- Antigen: Acceptable for travel. Other Names: The Rapid Test, Card Test
- Antibody: Not acceptable for travel. Other Names: Covid Blood Test, Rapid Blood Test.
Questions, Questions, Questions
You can go to dozens of sites and try to research what you’ll need in terms of the Covid-19 vaccine and testing when coming to the U.S., but a lot of them read like stereo instructions. Some are not up to date, and some written by non-professionals are inaccurate. So when you’re left with lingering questions, reach out to professionals who can provide dependable guidance. At Voloshen Law, we’re happy to help.
We have offices in Huntingdon Vally, PA, and Boca Raton, Florida. (215) 437-7854. You can also contact us on our webform, HERE.
Inquiries on COVID-19 vaccine and testing
The Embassy and consulates are not able to answer inquiries about COVID-19 vaccine and testing requirements. Travelers with general questions regarding COVID-19 vaccine and testing requirements can find answers to frequently asked questions on CDC and State Department website listed below. Travelers may consult their airlines with case specific inquiries.
FAQ for COVID-19 Testing and Vaccine Requirements
VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS AND TRAVEL TO THE UNITED STATES
Click to see six commonly asked questions for foreign nationals to travel to the U.S.
COVID-19 TESTING AND TRAVEL TO THE UNITED STATES
Be prepared for travel to the U.S. Click to see all six commonly asked questions. For detailed information regarding COVID-19 testing, please see CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/testing-international-air-travelers.html.