Testing Requirement Tightened for International Visitors

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced today the Global Testing Order had been shortened the required testing timeline for all international air travelers visiting the U.S.

Effective on December 6, 2021, prospective visitors must from any foreign country complete an approved COVID-19 test one day before departure to the U.S. 

This revision strengthens already robust protocols for international travel, including requirements for foreign travelers to be fully vaccinated.

‘As we learn more about the SARS-CoV-2 virus variant Omicron, this new one-day testing policy will help to protect travelers and the health and safety of American communities.’

Today’s announcement means that all air travelers, regardless of citizenship or vaccination status, will be required to show a negative pre-departure COVID-19 viral test taken the day before they board their flight to the U.S. 

For example, a passenger whose flight to the U.S. is at any time on a Sunday would need to have a negative test taken at any time on Saturday.

The CDC continues to recommend that all travelers get a COVID-19 viral test 3-5 days after arrival and that unvaccinated traveler should quarantine for seven days after travel.

Both the U.S. Government and the airline industry are committed to making this process as seamless as possible for the traveling public. Further guidance and operational details are available on CDC’s website.

Additionally, the CDC has issued various legally binding orders and regulations listed on this webpage.

The CDC responds to America’s most pressing health threats and is headquartered in Atlanta, GA, and has experts located throughout the United States and the world.

Note: Many countries require additional travel vaccinations when visiting their country, such as yellow fever.  

Vax-Before-Travel publishes fact-checked research-based travel vaccine news.