There are new international travel requirements that went into effect on Tuesday, January 26 to prevent the spread of COVID-19. While some borders have been closed for months and others are reopening to Americans, these rules apply to absolutely everyone entering the US, per the CDC. If you’re traveling back into the United States – whether you’re a U.S. citizen or not, all travelers MUST take a COVID test (with negative results) prior to boarding the flight. Here are the details of what to know before you travel internationally:
- All passengers two years of age and older must take and present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours (3 days) prior to his or her departure flight. If your departure flight is delayed or canceled, the traveler may need to retake this test.
- The COVID test can be a PCR test or Rapid Antigen test.
- You will not be allowed to board your flight to the United States if you do not have a negative COVID test. This applies to U.S. citizens and non-U.S. citizens.
- If you test positive, you will need to quarantine in the country you’re in (rules differ for every country) and you will not be allowed to board a flight to the United States until you test negative for COVID-19.
- Many hotels have already added testing on property to streamline the experience for travelers. We recommend booking a hotel that includes COVID testing on site to ensure you receive your results in time for your flight.
- The only exception to this new rule is if you have already been infected and recovered from COVID-19. You’ll need proof of recovery (via a doctors letter) from the virus within the last 90 days.
Countries like Colombia are open to U.S. citizens.
After returning to the United States after traveling internationally, the CDC recommends quarantining at home and getting a COVID test 3-5 days after your return. The CDC also recommends a full 7 day quarantine after international travel, even with a negative COVID test.
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