The US is set to end the Covid testing requirement for fliers that has been in effect since January 2021.
From Sunday, June 12, air travellers touching down in America won’t be made to show proof of a negative test.
American authorities announced the major change on Friday due to the ‘tremendous progress’ made in the response to the pandemic.
The change will do away with the current requirement to be tested a day before travel to the US – a time period that was shortened from three days in December 2021 due to the Omicron surge.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will review the policy in 90 days.
Even as the move paves the way for smoother travel to the US, there are a few firm Covid rules still in force.
Travelling as a vaccinated person to the US
(Image: Getty Images)
Most vaccinated foreigners can enter America with proof of vaccination.
US authorities accept Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca among others approved for emergency use by the World Health Organisation or the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
A booster dose isn’t needed to meet this requirement, but your final vaccine dose – such as the second dose of a two-dose vaccine – must have been administered at least 14 days before travel.
What proof of vaccination is accepted in America
Travellers can show their status with a digital or paper Covid vaccination certificate.
You may also present a vaccination certificate with QR code, including the NHS COVID Pass and EU Digital COVID Certificate.
A full list of approved proof is available on the CDC website here.
Travel rules for children
(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Kids aged 17 and under are exempt from the vaccination and quarantine requirement.
However, they must take a test three to five days after arrival and should self-isolate if they develop symptoms or test positive.
If a child isn’t fully vaccinated and travelling alone or with adults who are not fully vaccinated, they will have to show proof of a negative viral test from a sample taken within one day of departure.
If there is a child (17 and under) travelling with only one parent or someone who isn’t a parent or legal guardian, you may be asked to provide certain documents at the border.
For further information, see the US Customs and Border Protection website here.
Entering the US without being fully vaccinated
If you’re a tourist and not fully vaccinated, you unfortunately won’t be allowed to enter America.
The only exceptions to this rule are US citizens, US nationals and permanent residents.
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