U.S. to Require Negative COVID-19 Test for Travelers on Incoming International Flights

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced yesterday that beginning on January 26, 2021, all passengers traveling into the United States will have to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test before boarding. This includes U.S. citizens flying back on a round trip ticket.

Travelers will need to show proof of a test taken within three days of their flight. Either a PCR test or a rapid antigen test is OK. If you cannot produce documentation of a negative lab test or proof of recovery from a past COVID-19 infection, the airline by law will not allow you to board.

Before traveling internationally, it will be important to know in advance how and where you'll be able to get a test to come home. We recommend doing some research ahead of time -- Google to find nearby testing sites or to see if your airport provides on-site testing. Or you can ask your hotel concierge for testing center information. And, of course, you can always reach out to AmTrav’s advisor team; we’re happy to help out.

Since this rule was announced, some airlines are allowing travelers to cancel trips and/or reschedule them to return before January 26th without penalties. If you have a trip you would like to rebook, feel free to reach out to us for help.

While the airline industry has been at the forefront of mitigation efforts and flying has largely been seen as a safe way to travel, this additional measure should help keep both airports and aircrafts safer and help slow the spread of the virus while the U.S. ramps up its vaccination efforts amid a surge in new cases.

This is a developing story. As we receive new information, we will be sure to update you here on the blog.