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The United States has announced the end of all Covid travel rules and the reopening of its borders to unvaccinated travellers.
From May 11, international arrivals will no longer be required to show proof of vaccination upon arrival in America. In a statement, the White House said: “We are now in a different stage of our response when these measures are no longer necessary.”
The rule change coincides with the end of the coronavirus public health emergency in the country.
While nations around the world have eliminated all of their pandemic bureaucracy, the United States has stood steadfast as one of the few to impose Covid-related restrictions. Until the changes take effect later this month, all foreign arrivals are still required to present proof of at least two doses of a Covid vaccination.
Can I travel to the United States?
Yes, if you are fully vaccinated. The Foreign Office website explains: “US authorities will accept any Covid-19 vaccine approved for emergency use by the World Health Organization or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These are AstraZeneca, BIBP/ Sinopharm, Covishield, Janssen , Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech and Sinovac The last dose of vaccine must have been given at least 14 days before travel.”
The CDC website lists forms of acceptable proof of Covid-19 status. The US will accept proof of UK’s Covid-19 recovery and vaccination record and proof of Covid-19 vaccination issued in the Crown Dependencies. More details are available on the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and US Embassy websites.
Upon arrival, fully vaccinated travelers do not need to be quarantined, but are advised to have a virus test within 3-5 days.
On May 11, all rules will be abolished: all travelers, regardless of vaccination status or age, will be able to travel to the United States without restrictions.
What are the rules for children?
Children up to the age of 17 are exempt from the vaccination obligation.
The Foreign Office adds: “After arriving in the United States, children 17 years of age and younger who are not fully vaccinated may be required to certify that they will be tested in 3 to 5 days and will self-isolate if they develop symptoms. or if they test positive . A parent or other authorized person must attest on behalf of a passenger 17 years of age or younger.”
More details are on the CDC website.
On May 11, all rules will be abolished: all travelers, regardless of vaccination status or age, will be able to travel to the United States without restrictions.
Are there specific rules for visitors from China?
No. On March 10, the United States removed the requirement for air passengers arriving from China, Hong Kong or Macau to show a negative test or recovery documentation before boarding a flight to the country.
More details are on the CDC website.
Do I have to wear a mask?
Mask mandates have been abolished in every U.S. state except some health and long-term care facilities, and on public transportation across the country.
What about the Covid passports?
While a handful of states, notably New York and California, have barred unvaccinated citizens from bars and restaurants during the pandemic, Covid passports have now been phased out, even in these stricter jurisdictions.
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