New Rules for American Travelers Returning to the U.S. Begin Next Week

Planning international travel? Be aware that the new rules for travel to the United States will take effect on November 8, as the U.S. ends the pandemic travel ban on foreign visitors. In addition to allowing in foreign travelers, the reentry rules to the country will also be changing for U.S. Citizens and permanent residents.

What’s Changing for U.S. Citizens?

There will be changes to the entry rules for U.S. Citizens and permanent residents returning to the U.S. from outside the country. Fully vaccinated travelers will now have to show proof of vaccination (so bring your vaccine card) along with a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than three days prior to traveling. 

Unvaccinated U.S. citizens and permanent residents will now have to show a negative COVID test taken no more than one day before travel. 

Documentation of recovery from COVID (such as a positive test taken no more than 90 days before the flight and a letter from a licensed healthcare provider clearing you to travel) will also be accepted for reentry. 

Additionally, anyone traveling to the U.S. via plane will be required to provide contact information to the airline before boarding, in order to assist with contact tracing. 

Who Will Be Allowed Into the U.S.?

Only fully vaccinated foreign travelers will be allowed into the U.S. starting on November 8. According to the White House, the only exceptions to the vaccination entry requirement will be for children under 18 and visitors from countries with a less than 10 percent total vaccination rate (due to lack of availability of vaccines). The vaccination requirement applies to both travelers arriving by land and air.

Foreign travelers will still need to show a negative COVID test (or proof of recovery) in addition to proof of vaccination.