CDC Requires COVID-19 Test for All Air Passengers Entering the United States

Starting January 26, 2021, all air passengers traveling to the United States will be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test or documentation of recovery from COVID-19. The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the expanded rule on January 12, 2021, which will require travelers to get a viral COVID-19 test within the 3 days preceding their flight to the U.S. Each traveler must then be able to provide a paper or electronic copy of their NAAT or Antigen test results to the airline prior to boarding the flight.

Travelers who recently recovered from COVID-19 may travel if they provide documentation of recovery, which includes a positive viral test result dated within the last 3 months and a letter from their healthcare provider or a public health official that states they have been cleared for travel.

Individuals who have had a COVID-19 vaccine must still provide a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery.

The new rule will apply to all travelers 2 years of age or older, including U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents.  The CDC recommends all travelers review its FAQ’s on the new requirement before traveling.

If you plan to travel to the United States after January 26, 2021 and have questions about the requirements, please contact one of our attorneys at 312-427-6163.