U.S. to Lift Air Travel Restrictions in November 2021

On September 20, 2021, the White House announced that it plans to lift travel restrictions for fully vaccinated travelers, beginning in November 2021.

According to the New York Times, foreign travelers will be required to provide proof of vaccination before boarding, along with a negative COVID-19 test taken within three days prior to coming to the United States.  In addition, the Associated Press reports that fully vaccinated travelers will not be required to quarantine upon arrival.

The Washington Post reports that restrictions will be lifted for all 33 countries currently affected by air travel restrictions. Restrictions along the land borders with Mexico and Canada will remain in place.

Travel restrictions were first implemented in March 2020 to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The restrictions were expanded over time to include bans on travel from several countries, including the Schengen area of Europe, the United Kingdom and Ireland, Brazil, South Africa, India and China. Individuals currently present in those countries need to obtain National Interest Exceptions to the travel restrictions in order to enter the United States. This announced change should end the need for National Interest Exceptions.