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PCR tests for travel: everything you need to know

Oct 26, 2021 • 6 min read

Which type of COVID-19 test do you need to travel? © Ergin Yalcin / Getty Images

Since the pandemic began in March 2020, PCR tests, antigen tests, and LAMP tests have all entered the common lexicon. But what’s the difference between all of the ways to test for COVID-19 and which one do you need to travel? 

It’s a labyrinth of acronyms and technologies, but getting it wrong when traveling can be a real headache of denied boarding ⁠—or even being sent back to where you came from. We explain what they all are, when you need them and how to find them when you’re on the road. 

What’s a PCR test and why do I need one?

A Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test looks for genetic material within a sample via a process that takes a matter of hours. For COVID-19 purposes, it amplifies the sample taken from your nose, throat or saliva to try to find genetic material of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus that causes COVID-19. If the test finds that material, you have or have recently had the disease. The Cleveland Clinic has some further explanations of how PCR tests work .

PCR is usually officially called RT-PCR (RT for Reverse Transcription) and is one of a group of Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAATs) that include a variety of methods—NEAR, TMA, LAMP, HDA, CRISPR, and SDA—all of which are explained well by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . But all you really need to know for travel is what the relevant country you’re traveling to wants.

Use government websites to check for the latest entry requirements to your destination, or check out our Health Hub . In practice, you may need either a specific PCR or other kind of NAAT test to travel internationally. Many countries require a recent negative test in order to enter, with some even requiring testing for vaccinated travelers. Do check carefully, and either print out or screenshot the requirements so you can confirm that you’ve got it right with whoever is administering your pre-departure test.

Some countries require that tests be conducted by a healthcare provider like a doctor, nurse or pharmacist, while others are fine with the kits that let you swab yourself and mail a pack off to the lab for testing.

Some countries also require you to take another test after your arrival. You’ll want to check, but in this case the cheaper at-home, mail-off test kits might save you some money⁠—although if you have to quarantine until you get the result it’s faster to get swabbed in a healthcare setting with its own lab.

How is a PCR test different from other tests: antigen, LAMP, TMA or others?

PCR tests differ from others in what they’re testing for and how they process the sample. In many cases, the actual sample extraction from your nose, throat or saliva can be the same—it’s what’s done with it that counts.

But besides the common PCR test, some destinations accept antigen tests , which look for specific molecules on the surface of the virus. These are much faster—it might take 15–30 minutes for most of them—and come either as home test kits or in a healthcare setting like a pharmacy, test centre or doctor’s office. 

By and large, only antigen tests administered by a healthcare provider, with the written documentation you’ll receive, are considered valid for travel purposes. Bring the requirements of your destination country with you when you book the test to make sure. 

Read more: Everything you need to know about the EU's digital COVID-19 certificate 

As more destinations introduce vaccine passes to enter cultural sites and restaurants, some countries⁠—like France and Spain⁠—also accept recent antigen tests for the Digital COVID certificate. 

Where can I get a PCR—or antigen—test for travel?

Whether you’re entering a country or returning home, you may have to provide written proof of a PCR or antigen test over the last 24, 48 or 72 hours. Note that this validity window for PCR and antigen tests may well be different based on where you’re going. 

Antigen tests are widely available at pharmacies, with results within 15-30 minutes, but tests for travel purposes may incur charges—and tests for public health purposes may not give you the right paperwork for travel. 

PCR tests are less widely available and take longer, so you’ll want to do some more planning. In many countries you should be able to get a PCR test with documentation for travel at a pharmacy⁠—but be aware that in many places these are still quite expensive. If you’re struggling to find somewhere that provides tests, you could contact your airline and see if they can help. 

Check your own country’s embassy in your destination, that country’s embassy in your own country, as well as the relevant airlines and airports to get more information on tests. 

How do I get a PCR test abroad?

Since PCR tests take longer and require more equipment than an antigen test, it can be harder to find them. Given varying requirements that the test be conducted within one, two or three days, if you need a test to travel, it’s best to have one done in a healthcare setting (ideally at a lab) than using an at-home mail-in kit. 

The US Department of Health & Human Services maintains a list of community-based testing sites in the US , while the UK government maintains a list for arrival tests that may also be useful for passengers departing the UK . 

France, too, has a COVID test location database that allows you to search by location and to choose PCR, antigen or both. Germany does as well, broken out by region . Use a translation app or ask at your hotel for help.

For other countries, run a web search like “COVID travel test”, PCR or antigen, and the country name, but make sure you aren’t tripped up by private companies gaming the search results.

Can I take a PCR or antigen test at home for travel, or bring a test with me?

Most countries don’t accept self-administered tests for travel. That said, there are some options where you bring a test with you and book a video call with a healthcare professional who monitors you when taking the test—either then sent off to a lab for a PCR test or developed where you are for an antigen test.

On balance, with both PCR tests and antigen tests widely available in many locations, this seems like a lot of extra overhead, together with the possibility of tests going astray in the post. 

For more information on COVID-19 and travel, check out Lonely Planet's Health Hub .

You may also like:  What is a vaccine passport and do I need one to travel? What is the IATA Travel Pass and do I need it to travel? What happens if I'm denied entry to a country on arrival?

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What is COVID-19?

Who can get covid-19, can i travel if i recently had covid-19, what can travelers do to prevent covid-19, more information.

CDC Respiratory Virus Guidance has been updated. The content of this page will be updated soon.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2. The virus spreads mainly from person to person through respiratory droplets and small particles produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The virus spreads easily in crowded or poorly ventilated indoor settings.

People with COVID-19 have reported a wide range of symptoms   – ranging from no or mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2–14 days after exposure to the virus. Possible symptoms include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, new loss of taste and smell, sore throat, runny nose, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Anyone can get COVID-19. However, some people are more likely than others to get very sick if they get COVID-19. These include people who are older, are  immunocompromised , or have certain  disabilities , or have  underlying health conditions .  Vaccination, past infection, and timely access to testing and treatment can help protect you from getting very sick from COVID-19.

Yes, you can travel once you have ended isolation . Check CDC guidance for additional precautions, including testing and wearing a mask around others. If you recently had COVID-19 and are recommended to wear a mask, do not travel on public transportation such as airplanes, buses, and trains if you are unable to wear a mask whenever around others.

Get  up to date  with your COVID-19 vaccines before you travel and take steps to protect yourself and others . Consider wearing a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated indoor areas, including on public transportation and in transportation hubs. Take additional precautions if you were recently exposed to a person with COVID-19. Don’t travel while sick.

If you have a  weakened immune system  or  are at increased risk for severe disease talk to a healthcare professional before you decide to travel.  If you travel, take multiple prevention steps to provide additional layers of protection from COVID-19, even if you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines. These include improving ventilation and spending more time outdoors, avoiding sick people, getting tested for COVID-19 if you develop symptoms, staying home if you have or think you have COVID-19, and seeking treatment if you have COVID-19.

Consider getting travel insurance in case you need medical care abroad .

Consider getting a COVID-19 test if you:

• Develop COVID-19 symptoms before, during, or after travel.
• Will be traveling to visit someone who is at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19.
• Were in a situation with a greater risk of exposure during travel (e.g., in an indoor, crowded space like an airport terminal while not wearing a mask).

If you traveled and feel sick, particularly if you have a fever, talk to a healthcare professional, and tell them about your recent travel.

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UPDATED: A country-by-country guide to where you can travel with no COVID-19 test and/or vaccine required

Coronavirus-related restrictions are falling right and left, and more and more countries are once again opening their doors to visitors thanks to decreasing COVID-19 case numbers and increasing vaccination rates.

Some countries still require unvaccinated travelers to submit a pre-arrival test or test upon arrival. However, many countries treat all travelers the same, regardless of vaccination status, and have eliminated entry requirements as a result.

Of course, the U.S. remains the large exception to the rule, still requiring a test within a day of departure for all who come into the U.S. (except those under 2 years old).

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Here's our guide to the countries you can visit that no longer require tests for most visitors.

North America

For travelers hoping to head up north, you're in luck: Canada dropped the pre-arrival testing requirement for vaccinated travelers arriving in Canada via land or air on April 1.

Although arrival testing requirements remain in place for unvaccinated travelers, as of April 25 unvaccinated children between the ages of 5 and 11 can skip the arrival testing requirement, provided they are accompanied by a fully vaccinated parent or guardian.

Also as of late April, fully vaccinated individuals no longer need to worry about wearing a face mask in public, nor do they need to quarantine if another traveler in their group develops COVID-19 symptoms. What's more, these people do not need to document a list of close contacts and places visited throughout their time on the ground in Canada.

Otherwise, all travelers 12 and older who are not vaccinated may continue to enter Canada by showing results of a negative antigen test taken within one day of arrival, a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure or proof of a positive PCR test taken within 10 to 180 days of entry.

Everyone must complete an online form via ArriveCan ahead of arrival. Know that you can be randomly selected for testing upon arrival at four airports.

Related: More COVID-19 restrictions are removed for visitors to Canada

Although Mexico briefly added COVID-19 restrictions in early 2022, the entire country is now designated as "green," indicating a low risk of contracting COVID-19 based on government data.

As a result, minimal COVID-19 restrictions are only enforced by specific states. The only major popular tourist destination currently enforcing a pandemic restriction is Puerto Vallarta , where masks remain mandatory. Elsewhere, travelers shouldn't expect much in the way of enforcement.

Incoming travelers are not subject to any entry requirements related to testing or vaccination proof to visit Mexico, though the U.S. Embassy in Mexico says health screening procedures may be in place at certain airports and other ports of entry.

Related: Going to Mexico for spring break? The US has this travel warning for you

Puerto Rico

On March 10 , the requirement to show either proof of vaccination or a negative test was dropped for domestic travelers to Puerto Rico, regardless of vaccination status, per updated travel guidelines issued by Discover Puerto Rico .

Just note that international travelers are still expected to adhere to the aforementioned U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention testing rule , as well as submit proof of vaccination (with a vaccine approved by the Food and Drug Administration or World Health Organization) to their airlines.

Capacity limits and vaccine requirements for both private and public establishments no longer apply, though individual businesses may choose to implement their own guidelines related to health and safety.

Additionally, visitors to Puerto Rico are no longer required to fill out the travel declaration form.

Related: Puerto Rico follows the lead of most US destinations and drops all COVID-19 restrictions for domestic visitors

South America

As of April 21, travelers to Chile do not face travel restrictions related to testing or proof of vaccination.

Instead, travelers must complete an online travel affidavit form within 48 hours of boarding for Chile and show proof of health insurance covering up to $30,000 worth of COVID-19-related expenses.

Other than those two requirements, you can enjoy Chile without taking any extra steps to visit, but remember that you may be randomly selected to take a test upon entering the country, per Chile Travel .

Central America

On March 1, Belize dropped testing requirements for fully vaccinated travelers to enter the country; Belize also removed all curfew mandates and outdoor mask mandates, per updated guidance issued by the Belize Tourism Board.

Unvaccinated travelers 5 and older (or those without vaccine proof) must continue to show results of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival or a negative antigen test taken within 48 hours.

Regardless of vaccination status, all international visitors must continue to purchase specific travel health insurance to visit the country as of April 7, per the tourism board.

In addition to purchasing the insurance, travelers must complete an online customs form provided on all flights to Belize and book their stay at a hotel or accommodation that has been approved by the tourism organization.

"Keeping abreast of the rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic remains our priority. Eliminating criteria that were no longer relevant, such as a COVID-19 test for fully vaccinated visitors, will stimulate additional travel to Belize," Belize Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations Anthony Mahler told TPG via email. "We are cognizant that reducing costs for travelers is pertinent, as this is an important element in their consideration process when selecting a destination."

As of this month, travelers to Costa Rica have zero predeparture steps to consider, thanks to the elimination of the online health pass and travel insurance policy which were both formerly required for foreign visitors.

Even so, Visit Costa Rica still recommends travelers age 18 and older carry a travel insurance policy covering potential COVID-19-related expenses.

Currently, many public spaces — including sports venues, cultural and academic institutions and nightclubs — are operating at full capacity without vaccination requirements.

Americans do not need a visa to enter Costa Rica. However, they must possess a valid passport and a return ticket to exit Costa Rica within 90 days, per the Embassy of Costa Rica in Washington, D.C.

El Salvador

As of Nov. 17, 2021, the Salvadoran government dropped all testing and vaccination requirements for U.S. citizens to enter, per the U.S. Embassy in El Salvador .

Unlike most countries on this list, El Salvador has been open for quite some time, having resumed international commercial flights on Sept. 19, 2020, without quarantine requirements for incoming passengers. Local businesses remain open as they did pre-pandemic and no curfew is currently in place.

The only pandemic-related precautions travelers can expect to see are temperature checks upon arrival at airports, such as Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport (SAL) in San Salvador.

Summer 2022 is a great time to visit Croatia since the underrated European destination has removed its previous requirement for non-EU citizens to show proof of vaccination to enter.

Therefore, as of this month, there are no longer any pandemic-related restrictions for Americans visiting Croatia, though face masks are encouraged on public transportation.

Americans can visit Croatia without any of the predeparture or on-the-ground steps that were previously required.

Based on my personal travels, I would recommend visiting the Croatian islands of Vis and Split, though Game of Thrones fans may be partial to cities like Dubrovnik.

Earlier this week, Munich city leaders announced the country's famed Oktoberfest would return this year after a two-year COVID-19-induced hiatus, which is good news for vaccinated Americans hoping to join in on the fun come this fall.

However, entry requirements are set to change Oct. 1, when the country will only allow Americans who can show proof of receipt of three doses of a COVID-19 vaccine to enter. This means you'll need to be boosted at least three months after your second dose.

"Please verify that you qualify as fully vaccinated before attempting to enter Germany, as the definition of fully vaccinated in Germany is different from in the United States," according to the U.S. Embassy in Germany's entry and exit requirements .

Entry requirements apply to all incoming travelers ages 12 and older, meaning proof of vaccination is required for this group to enter Germany by air, land, or sea.

Vaccination rules do not apply to children ages 6 to 11 who, if accompanied by a fully vaccinated parent, may enter by presenting a negative COVID-19 test (either a PCR or antigen test) taken within 48 hours of arrival. Alternatively, this group can present proof of recovery from COVID-19 within the preceding six months.

Travelers under age 6 are not subject to any entry rules.

Note that travelers who have been in a virus-variant area in the 10 days before travel must present a negative PCR test, regardless of vaccination status. The U.S. is not currently considered high-risk or virus-variant area.

Read more: Oktoberfest returns to Germany this fall

In line with much of Europe, entry to Italy has only become easier in time for summer travels.

As of May 1, tourists to Italy are no longer asked to show their version of a vaccine passport, known as a "green pass, " which was previously required to access most places throughout the country such as restaurants bars, hotels, museums and ski lifts.

This means vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers alike can enjoy those places equally without having to present proof of vaccination, recovery or a negative COVID-19 test.

However, unvaccinated travelers must still submit a negative predeparture test taken within 48 hours of entry to the country, while vaccinated travelers may enter by showing proof of vaccination within the last nine months.

Even with the relaxed requirements, masks are still to be worn on public transportation and in certain indoor spaces, including theaters, cinemas, concert halls and sporting events, through at least mid-June.

Read more: You'll no longer need a 'green pass' to move throughout Italy

As of April 18, fully vaccinated and boosted travelers can visit the island of Cyprus without any predeparture or post-arrival testing, according to a press release issued by the Republic of Cyprus Ministry of the Interior.

Cyprus' Interior Ministry considers travelers fully vaccinated if they are boosted and if nine months have elapsed since receipt of a final COVID-19 vaccine dose. Unvaccinated travelers may enter the country by showing a negative COVID-19 test, either a PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure or a rapid test conducted within 24 hours.

Entry protocols do not apply to passengers younger than 12. The Cyprus government outlines current entry protocols based on color code designation here .

France made headlines throughout the pandemic for its inconsistent implementation of COVID-19 entry protocols for travelers, but it seems to have reached a conclusion regarding the steps tourists need to take to visit.

As of March 14, only unvaccinated or partially vaccinated Americans are expected to present results of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure for France, or a rapid test conducted within 48 hours of travel.

On the other hand, fully vaccinated travelers no longer have to take any entry steps beyond submitting proof of full vaccination (including a booster) to airlines and customs officials. France considers you "fully vaccinated" if you are vaccinated and boosted with vaccines by Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca or Johnson & Johnson.

Additionally, all travelers must sign a document attesting they do not have any COVID-19 symptoms and complete an online EU Digital Passenger Locator Form ahead of travel.

Otherwise, based on my recent trip to Paris , things are seemingly back to normal, especially since masks are no longer compulsory indoors or on public transit .

Read more: Here's how to travel to France right now and what it's like once you arrive

Despite the confusion surrounding Greece's reopening plans earlier this month , the country no longer imposes vaccination requirements as of May 2 , meaning travelers heading to Greece this summer can do so without worrying about showing proof of vaccination or adhering to previous testing requirements.

Although Greece no longer requires proof of vaccination, recovery or a negative test to access any indoor or outdoor venues, an indoor mask mandate is expected to remain in place through June 1.

Thus far, unvaccinated travelers have been able to enter Greece but were restricted from accessing certain public spaces indoors, including dining venues, museums, nightclubs, theaters, cinemas and stadiums.

Related: This time it's for real: Greece to lift entry restrictions for travelers starting May 1

Ireland has scrapped almost all of its remaining restrictions related to COVID-19. The predeparture test requirement for vaccinated tourists was dropped earlier in 2022, but unvaccinated Americans still had to submit a negative test to enter.

As of March, however, all travelers may enter Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, and no testing at any time is required, according to U.S. Mission Ireland.

In theory, this means your trip to Ireland should resemble what travel was like before the pandemic.

Related: Ireland ditches most of its COVID-19 rules: Americans welcome just in time for St. Patrick's Day

The Netherlands

Although the Netherlands dropped all entry protocols for travelers within the European Union and some countries deemed "safe" by the Dutch government, travelers from all other countries, including the U.S., remain subject to vaccination requirements as of early April.

At the moment, only vaccinated Americans are eligible to enter the country, according to guidance issued by Dutch officials, and they can do so without submitting a negative COVID-19 test.

In order to be considered fully vaccinated, travelers must show proof of a booster shot if more than 270 days have elapsed since the final dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Full vaccination requirements are outlined here .

Otherwise, the only exception to the vaccination requirement is applicable to travelers who can show proof of recovery from COVID-19 in the six months prior to entry in order to visit.

Additionally, all incoming travelers must complete an online health declaration form .

Norway became the first country in the EU to lift COVID-19 restrictions for both locals and visitors to the mainland. As of Feb. 12, all previous testing, quarantine and registration mechanisms are null.

Do note that pre-arrival and upon-arrival testing requirements remain in Svalbard, the Norwegian archipelago situated between mainland Norway and the North Pole.

Otherwise, expect Norway to look like it did before the coronavirus reared its ugly head — sans social distancing, masks or anyone asking for your vaccination proof.

As of March 8, Americans are no longer subject to any testing requirements to enter Slovenia. However, U.S.-based travelers older than 12 who visit the country for nonessential purposes, such as tourism, must show proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 to enter, as well as to attend indoor cultural events, per the U.S. Embassy in Slovenia .

Specific vaccines are permitted for entry, including Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson. Travelers are considered fully vaccinated seven days after the second dose of Pfizer and 14 days after the final dose of both the Moderna and J&J vaccines.

Additionally, N95 or surgical masks remain required in indoor public spaces and outdoors where social distancing isn't possible.

Related: Norway joins the list of countries no longer requiring travelers to quarantine

As of April 7 , Americans are able to enter Spain by showing proof of full vaccination or recent recovery from COVID-19. Spain considers travelers fully vaccinated if they are boosted within 270 days of receiving their final dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Earlier this week , the Spanish Ministry of the Interior quietly extended current entry protocols for travelers through at least June 15.

Even so, unvaccinated travelers ages 12 to 18 may still enter by taking a predeparture PCR test within 72 hours of departing for Spain.

Testing and vaccination rules do not apply to travelers younger than 12. Despite announcing on April 6 that the country would ease restrictions for unvaccinated travelers, Spanish officials rolled back plans to change current entry protocols for this group.

All passengers (regardless of age) arriving in Spain by air or sea, including transit passengers, must complete an online Health Control Form before leaving for Spain.

Related: Spain extends current COVID-19 vaccination and booster entry protocols through June 15

After previously reopening to travelers coming from within the EU, Sweden has finally welcomed back non-EU travelers.

"As of April 1, there are no COVID-19-specific entry restrictions," says the U.S. Embassy in Sweden . "Regular rules for entering Sweden will be applied."

This is long-awaited good news for travelers, meaning no pandemic-related entry requirements, such as testing or vaccination proof, are necessary to enter Sweden.

Americans can freely visit Sweden without obtaining a visa, as noted by the Swedish police.

Switzerland

Switzerland dropped its remaining COVID-19 protocols on May 2, meaning Americans resumed tourist travel as normal without having to certify their vaccination status.

Although the country reopened to all tourists almost a year ago, the Swiss government restricted tourism travel to vaccinated Americans.

"The entry restrictions currently in place will be lifted from 2 May," Switzerland's State Secretariat for Migration said in a tweet on April 21. "As of that date, the usual rules for entering Switzerland will apply." For U.S.-based travelers, this would refer to needing only your U.S. passport.

Read more: Switzerland to drop remaining COVID-19 entry requirements

United Kingdom

On March 18, the U.K. dropped its final remaining COVID-19 travel measures , including the passenger locator form and multiple testing requirements for unvaccinated passengers.

This means that no one traveling to the U.K. for vacation needs to take any predeparture or post-arrival steps, as previously required.

Although this is good news, it comes as COVID-19 case numbers rose once again in March across the U.K. due to the omicron BA.2 subvariant.

Read more: The final remaining travel restrictions in the UK will be scrapped

As of last week, travelers to Austria no longer need to show proof of vaccination, recent recovery or submit a negative test to enter, per the U.S. Embassy in Austria .

Although zero COVID-19-related restrictions remain in place in Austria, it has been a long road to get to this point , as the country changed course on protocols many times.

Initially, in August 2021, Austria was among the first EU countries to set an expiration date for vaccination proof, requiring travelers to show proof of a booster shot 270 days following one's final vaccine dose. That winter, officials suspended tourism and implemented a country-wide lockdown, as many places around Europe and the U.S. experienced a surge in new case numbers due to the omicron variant.

It wasn't until February 2022 that unvaccinated Americans were able to resume tourism to Austria by taking a predeparture test.

"The "3-G" rule (vaccinated/recovered or tested) for arrivals to Austria was lifted on May 16, 2022," the Austrian Embassy in Washington said on May 16. "There are currently no COVID-19 related entry restrictions in effect for Austria."

Related: Off the beaten path: Tips on visiting and exploring Austria

The eastern European nation of Serbia has officially removed all of its pandemic entry requirements and restrictions as early May, although select travelers, including Americans, have been able to visit for much of the pandemic since Serbia is not subject to EU-wide rules.

As of May 3, the country treats vaccinated and non-vaccinated travelers alike, meaning there's no need to show proof of vaccination to enter, nor do non-vaccinated individuals need to take a predeparture test within 48 hours.

While masks are still recommended for use in indoor public spaces but are mandatory on public transit, per the U.S. Embassy in Serbia .

Like its neighboring country, Kosovo also removed its entry requirements in early May, after previously allowing vaccinated travelers to enter without testing or quarantine while expecting unvaccinated passengers to undergo predeparture testing within 48 hours of entry.

"The epidemiological situation with COVID-19 is stable, in which case it is recommended to facilitate the existing measures," Prime Minister Albin Kurti said on April 30.

As of March 19, Aruba scrapped all of its remaining COVID-19 restrictions, including the requirement for incoming unvaccinated travelers to submit results of a negative COVID-19 test, aligning with its decision in February to ditch the requirement for vaccinated visitors.

No travelers need to take a test to visit Aruba, nor do they need to be vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19, as previously required.

To enter, incoming passengers age 15 and older must purchase Aruba Visitors Insurance for a flat-rate fee of $15 per person per stay in order to cover COVID-19-related medical expenses. This insurance must be purchased prior to travel as part of the online application process , which remains in effect for travelers.

More information on updated travel requirements to Aruba is available via Visit Aruba .

The Dutch Caribbean island of Bonaire announced relaxed entry requirements for fully vaccinated visitors on March 20, according to guidance issued by the Public Entity Bonaire .

Currently, fully vaccinated visitors may enter Bonaire without submitting a predeparture test. The government considers travelers fully vaccinated if their final vaccine dose (either second dose or booster) was administered within the nine months preceding travel.

Testing requirements remain for unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travelers, who can still visit Bonaire by presenting results of a negative antigen test taken within 24 hours of departure or a PCR test taken within 48 hours. These testing rules do not apply to travelers age 12 and under.

All travelers, regardless of vaccination status, must fill out an online health declaration form ahead of travel.

Travelers to Curacao are no longer expected to submit a pre-arrival COVID-19 test as of March 10, as the Caribbean nation has eliminated its former risk classification system that once determined traveler entry requirements.

However, there are a few steps travelers must continue to take in order to visit, such as completing an online digital immigration card before departure and completing a passenger locator form within 48 hours of departure. Per the Curacao Tourist Board, visitors must either print or have a digital copy of the locator card available for review on the ground in Curacao.

Arriving passengers should be aware of health checks at Curacao International Airport (CUR) and note that you must pay to quarantine in your own accommodation should you test positive for COVID-19 while there. The tourist board continues to ask visitors to the island to social distance in public.

Effective April 4, travel to Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique just got easier, says the Grenada Tourism Authority , which now allows travelers to visit the islands without any of the previous pandemic-related entry protocols.

Consequently, tourists can visit without having to worry about any predeparture or upon-arrival steps since no COVID-19 testing, vaccination or quarantine requirements are in place. Additionally, travelers don't have to worry about completing an online health form ahead of travel, making this set of Caribbean islands a very attractive destination for travelers.

On April 16, Jamaica scrapped its predeparture testing requirement, meaning travelers to Jamaica do not need to take a COVID-19 test to visit the country.

With this news, travel to Jamaica should look very similar to what it did pre-pandemic, as travelers are only required to complete an online immigration card to enter the country, which can also be completed via a paper form on your flight.

Otherwise, prepare to enjoy Jamaica without thinking about COVID-19 until you return home to the U.S.

Related: Jamaica ends COVID-19 testing requirement for visitors

As of April 2, both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers are welcome to enter St. Lucia via the country's "Seamless Saint Lucia" protocols, which do not require a pre-travel test or quarantine for fully vaccinated visitors.

"Fully vaccinated travelers must provide a valid vaccination record as requested on check in, for boarding and on entry to Saint Lucia," according to the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority. "Fully vaccinated means two weeks has passed since the second dose of a two-dose vaccine, or since a single-dose vaccine. Vaccine proof must be presented on entry to Saint Lucia."

Otherwise, unvaccinated travelers age 5 and older may visit St. Lucia by presenting results of a negative PCR test taken within five days prior to arrival. This test must be administered by or supervised by a health care professional, as only proctored tests are allowed for use for entry. Consult this guide for more specific testing requirements.

All travelers must complete a health screening questionnaire before disembarkation in St. Lucia.

Related: This TPG reader tested positive while on vacation in St. Lucia; here's what happened next

US Virgin Islands

Travelers to the U.S. Virgin Islands no longer need to submit a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival to enter this U.S. territory located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea, east of Puerto Rico.

Travelers are considered fully vaccinated 14 days after receiving the final dose of any WHO- or FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccine, including Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson and AstraZeneca.

As of March 7, unvaccinated travelers from the U.S. to St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John and Water Island must still continue to provide results of a negative test taken within five days of travel. This test can be either an antigen or PCR test.

Outside of that requirement, all travelers must answer questions via an online travel screening portal ahead of travel, specifically domestic travelers age 5 and above and international visitors age 2 and above.

Masks remain compulsory indoors, including on public transit.

Turks and Caicos

As of May 1, visitors to Turks and Caicos no longer need to take a COVID-19 test or purchase travel insurance. On top of that, you no longer need to register before traveling, and the mask mandate has been dropped.

Even so, the island requires all visitors age 16 and older to be fully vaccinated to enter, meaning at least 14 days must have elapsed since your final dose of an approved vaccine .

Other than that, visitors to the Turks can expect to enjoy its beauty much like they did before 2020, as one of the now easiest countries to visit, just ask TPG reporter Sean Cudahy, who wrote about how easy of an experience it was to visit recently.

"That said, when it comes to Turks and Caicos' restrictions, here's the list of COVID-19-related steps I had to take to prepare for travel: Upload my vaccination card to an app as I checked in to my flight," he wrote. "That's it. That's the whole list."

Related: I just visited Turks and Caicos: 4 things you should know before you go

Located in the eastern Indian Ocean, the island of Mauritius was the first African nation to make this list. Mauritius relaxed entry requirements for fully vaccinated tourists on March 12, but still requires them to test upon arrival.

Although fully vaccinated foreign tourists no longer need to submit results of a negative COVID-19 test before departure to Mauritius, they must take a test on the day they arrive in Mauritius, which is technically considered day zero. Unvaccinated travelers must submit to arrival testing as well.

After the day zero test, fully vaccinated travelers are allowed to freely explore the island as they please, but unvaccinated travelers must quarantine for seven days in an accommodation of their choice before being able to enjoy the island.

Travelers age 17 and under accompanied by a parent or guardian do not need to show proof of vaccination to enter, per updated guidance via the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority .

Regardless of age or vaccination status, all visitors must provide proof of COVID-19-related health insurance, to be uploaded as part of the completion of the online All-in-One form.

Like Mauritius, Seychelles no longer requires fully vaccinated visitors to show a negative PCR test upon arrival, per a March 15 announcement by the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism.

Seychelles considers visitors fully vaccinated if they have received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine along with a booster within six months of completion of the primary series. For travelers ages 12 to 19, a booster shot is not required to be treated as fully vaccinated.

If you fail to meet either of those conditions and are therefore unvaccinated or partially vaccinated, you must present results of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours or a rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours of departure to Seychelles.

Please note that people who have tested positive within two to 12 weeks prior to travel are also exempt from pre-arrival testing as long as they possess proof of recovery.

Regardless of vaccination status, all travelers must apply online for the mandatory travel authorization up to 72 hours prior to the start of travel.

Middle East

As of Feb. 20, no passengers arriving in Bahrain need to take a PCR test upon arrival.

Although travelers can enter without submitting any pre-travel or arrival tests regardless of vaccination status, Americans must possess a visa to enter, which is available upon arrival, per guidance issued by the U.S. Embassy in Bahrain.

For more information about how to obtain a visa to visit Bahrain, the embassy says to consult the Bahrain Ministry of Interior .

Those visiting Bahrain should download the BeAware Bahrain app in advance of travel and you should expect health screenings at the airport.

The government of Jordan no longer requires travelers to take a PCR test before or upon arrival as of March 1, according to the U.S. Embassy in Jordan .

Jordan still asks travelers to register and submit a pre-travel form, during which a QR code will be provided for presentation to airline personnel upon boarding your flight to Jordan.

Travelers should note that the Jordanian government requires social distancing and face masks in public establishments and on public transportation.

United Arab Emirates

As of March 10, vaccinated travelers to the United Arab Emirates via land borders and airports, including Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) and Dubai International Airport (DXB), are exempt from submitting a PCR test before departing if they show proof of full vaccination via a certificate containing a QR code. The UAE considers vaccines approved by the WHO as valid, in addition to Sinopharm and Sputnik V.

Otherwise, unvaccinated travelers entering the UAE must continue to show results of a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours of entry or a certificate of recovery from COVID-19 within one month from the date of travel. The recovery certificate must also include a QR code.

Once on the ground in the UAE, travelers must either obtain a Green Pass or show results of a negative PCR test taken within 96 hours to enter public places, including local events, exhibitions and cultural and social activities.

In use since 2021, the UAE's Green Pass system restricts access to indoor spaces to those with "green" status on the Al Hosn app , which verifies your COVID-19 vaccination status as well as any negative test results. Before travel, be sure to upload corresponding vaccination certificates and/or negative test results to the app for use on the ground in the UAE.

Travelers younger than 12 are exempt from submitting a PCR test upon arrival.

Consult the UAE government for additional details on traveling to the UAE currently.

Americans traveling to Israel by air no longer have to take a predeparture or on arrival test, or quarantine, and the existing mask mandate on international flights will soon be lifted, per the Israeli Ministry of Health.

As of May 20, testing and quarantine requirements are lifted for air travelers, in addition to cruise passengers and those arriving at land borders.

"It will not be required to isolate for 24 hours after entering Israel," notes the Health Ministry. "The mask mandate for those entering Israel (who have been required to isolate until receipt of a PCR test result) in airports and maritime and land border crossings will be lifted."

This means that as of May 23, the only predeparture step travelers must remember to take is completing an online entry statement within 48 hours of departure for Israel, per the U.S. Embassy in Israel, which notes that travelers should "receive a response immediately indicating whether you will be cleared or refused to board your flight."

Until May 23, masks are required on flights to Israel but the previous indoor mask mandate is no longer in place.

Due to confusion over previously announced reopening plans, the Indonesian government released updated COVID-19-related guidance for travelers on April 5.

Among the changes, travelers from 43 countries, including the U.S., are able to enter Bali and other popular Indonesian destinations without the need for a visa. This applies if their stay is for tourism purposes exceeding no more than 30 days.

Therefore, Americans age 12 and older are able to enter Indonesia by showing proof of full vaccination and results of a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours of departure to the country.

Outside of predeparture testing, vaccinated Americans are no longer required to quarantine.

Note that international travelers may enter the country through 10 airports outlined by the government in its updated international travel protocols .

Additionally, keep in mind that travelers who are partially vaccinated may still visit Indonesia as long as they quarantine for five days. Minor travelers are expected to adhere to the rules their adult companions are adhering to. Domestic traveler restrictions no longer remain in place for vaccinated Americans, per the U.S. Embassy in Indonesia .

Regardless of vaccination status, all travelers should expect to undergo health checks on arrival.

Consult the embassy for the most up-to-date travel information applicable to U.S.-based travelers.

Related: Dream destinations: Bali and the Maldives loosen COVID-19 entry restrictions

Pre-arrival testing requirements were dropped for fully vaccinated travelers age 12 and older on May 1, according to the Ministry of Health of Malaysia.

However, testing requirements are still in effect for unvaccinated travelers age 12 and older, who must take both a PCR test within two days of departure for Malaysia and a rapid test within 24 hours of arrival. Additionally, these travelers age 18 and older must quarantine for four days upon arrival, a stipulation that was recently reduced from five days.

While face masks will become optional in outdoor public spaces, all visitors are required to wear face coverings in certain indoor spaces.

Consult the Malaysian Ministry of Health's Twitter feed for the most up-to-date information.

The Maldives

On March 5, the Maldives dropped its arrival PCR test requirement . Vaccinated visitors can now enter the island nation by simply completing an online declaration of health within 48 hours of departure.

Following that, the country also removed previous testing requirements for unvaccinated travelers, per the Maldives Immigration website .

Americans will be issued a free 30-day tourist visa upon arrival as long as they submit the aforementioned health form.

Travel limitations to Nepal no longer exist as of March 10, meaning all travelers regardless of vaccination status can receive visas upon arrival, according to the U.S. Embassy in Nepal .

Updated guidance recently issued by the embassy also indicates that fully vaccinated travelers to Nepal no longer have to present results of a negative COVID-19 test prior to departing for the country as long as they provide proof of vaccination.

Otherwise, unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travelers must continue to show proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure. Note that symptomatic travelers may be subject to on-arrival testing if deemed necessary.

"The Department of Immigration rescinded all previously issued orders regarding country-specific travel limitations as of March 10, 2022," says the U.S. Embassy in Nepal . "All travelers regardless of vaccine status can receive on-arrival visas at the port of entry."

On the ground in Nepal, face masks are required outdoors, and the Nepalese government has said that noncompliance may result in arrests and/or fines.

Travel to Thailand became a whole lot easier in May, when the country announced it would welcome back unvaccinated visitors.

While unvaccinated visitors must still face testing constraints, they will be able to move freely upon entering the country without testing upon arrival by taking a PCR test within 72 hours of departing from their home country to Thailand. If these travelers fail to present a predeparture test, they must continue to quarantine for five days upon arrival before being released from quarantine upon receipt of negative PCR test results.

As of this month, vaccinated travelers to Thailand face zero restrictions upon arrival in the country, avoiding any sort of testing requirements before or during their trip.

All travelers must continue to apply for a Thailand Pass online ahead of travel and purchase COVID-19 insurance that covers any pandemic-related medical expenses up to $10,000.

Bars, pubs and karaoke clubs will also reopen in Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai and Chonburi, among other areas, starting in June, as the country gradually reopens nightlife venues.

Related: Thailand drops testing rules effective May 1; unvaccinated visitors have a choice

Despite much confusion over the exact date Vietnam intended to welcome back international travelers, including Americans, it should now be easier than ever for visitors looking to head to the Asian nation.

"Effective May 15, 2022, the Vietnamese Government no longer requires a negative COVID-19 test prior to entry into Vietnam," per the U.S. Embassy in Vietnam .

This is particularly good news for those travelers who previously wanted to visit but perhaps were hesitant due to confusion over the country's botched reopening plan, which was initially supposed to take place on March 16, though entry requirements were unclear regarding whether incoming travelers would be expected to quarantine.

Two months later, Vietnam removed all of the previously enforced testing, quarantine, health insurance and other entry requirements, so that travelers to Vietnam only need to complete the visa process ahead of scheduled travel, if applicable.

Americans will need to obtain a tourist visa before traveling to Vietnam.

"Effective March 15, 2022, the Vietnamese government has resumed pre-pandemic visa issuance policies," per the Embassy. "All previous visa restrictions have been lifted."

For U.S.-based travelers, the Vietnamese Embassy in Washington provides instructions on how to obtain a visa, while noting that it can be done online, in-person, by mail or by email.

Since March 2022, fully vaccinated travelers have been able to enter Cambodia without having to take any other predeparture steps, aside from obtaining a visa on arrival at both airports and land borders.

Vaccinated tourists to Cambodia, including Americans, can receive a visa upon entry, valid for use for 30 days. Unvaccinated travelers on the other hand, still have some hoops to jump through to enjoy Cambodia.

All unvaccinated travelers to Cambodia must continue to undergo a week-long quarantine at a location determined by the Ministry of Health, the charge of which depends on the type of visa issued.

After this seven-day isolation, air travelers must take a rapid test but travelers that entered via land borders will also be subject to a rapid test both pre and post-quarantine, according to the U.S. Embassy in Cambodia .

Bottom line

A number of other destinations have eased COVID-19 protocols while still asking travelers to provide proof of vaccination or take a test before departing their home country.

Overall, it seems countries are opening up to the idea of welcoming back international tourists with fewer and fewer restrictions.

This guide will continue to be updated as more countries drop rules and regulations, making it easier for travelers and clearing the way for international travel to more closely resemble what it looked like pre-pandemic.

Although many Americans are hesitant to travel abroad due to the looming predeparture test required to get back into the U.S., government officials have not indicated any plans to loosen the current policy as of May .

Related: Travel is getting easier: Here are some of the countries that have eased COVID-19 protocols

International Travel Restrictions by Country

Find out where you can travel and covid-19 policies.

Select origin country, search destination or select a country on the map to see travel restrictions.

The travel status of individual countries can change suddenly, and we know it can be hard to stay on top of it all. That's why we're getting you the information you need to consider when planning travel. Learn about country-specific entry requirements such as the border status, COVID-19 testing requirements, and quarantine requirements. Many countries are reopening their borders for international travel. Find out which countries are open to vaccinated travelers.

Just enter your departure country above - the map will update to reflect countries' opening status and any entry requirements for air travelers. Before you book, be sure to double check your country's official government site.

Destinations you can travel to now

Dominican republic, netherlands, philippines, puerto rico, switzerland, united arab emirates, united kingdom, know when to go.

Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know.

Filter by region, status and more

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Albania.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Algeria.

American Samoa

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter American Samoa.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Angola.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Anguilla.

Antigua And Barbuda

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Antigua And Barbuda.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Argentina.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Armenia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Aruba.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Australia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Austria.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Azerbaijan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bahrain.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bangladesh.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Barbados.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Belgium.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Belize.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Benin.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bermuda.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bhutan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bolivia.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Botswana.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Brazil.

British Virgin Islands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the British Virgin Islands.

Brunei Darussalam

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Brunei Darussalam.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bulgaria.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Burundi.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Cambodia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Cameroon.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Canada.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Cape Verde.

Caribbean Netherlands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Caribbean Netherlands.

Cayman Islands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Cayman Islands.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Chad.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Chile.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter China.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Colombia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Comoros.

Cook Islands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Cook Islands.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Costa Rica.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Croatia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Curaçao.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Cyprus.

Czech Republic

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Czech Republic.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Denmark.

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Djibouti without restrictions.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Dominica.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Dominican Republic.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, need to quarantine to enter East Timor.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ecuador.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Egypt.

El Salvador

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter El Salvador.

Equatorial Guinea

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Equatorial Guinea.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Eritrea.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Estonia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Eswatini.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ethiopia.

Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas).

Faroe Islands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Faroe Islands.

Federated States of Micronesia

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Federated States of Micronesia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Fiji.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Finland.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter France.

French Guiana

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter French Guiana.

French Polynesia

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter French Polynesia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Gabon.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Gambia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Georgia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Germany.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ghana.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Gibraltar.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Greece.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Greenland.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Grenada.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guadeloupe.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guam.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guatemala.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guinea.

Guinea-Bissau

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guinea-Bissau.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guyana.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Honduras.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Hong Kong.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Hungary.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Iceland.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter India.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Indonesia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ireland.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Italy.

Ivory Coast

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ivory Coast.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Jamaica.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Japan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Jersey.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Jordan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kazakhstan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kenya.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kiribati.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kosovo.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kuwait.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kyrgyzstan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Laos.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Latvia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Lesotho.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Liberia.

Liechtenstein

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Liechtenstein.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Lithuania.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Luxembourg.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Macau.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Madagascar.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Malawi.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Malaysia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Maldives.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Malta.

Marshall Islands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Marshall Islands.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Martinique.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mauritania.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mauritius.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mayotte.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mexico.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Moldova.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mongolia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Montenegro.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Montserrat.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mozambique.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Namibia.

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Nauru without restrictions.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Nepal.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Netherlands.

New Caledonia

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter New Caledonia.

New Zealand

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter New Zealand.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Nicaragua.

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Niger without restrictions.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Nigeria.

North Macedonia

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter North Macedonia.

Northern Mariana Islands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Northern Mariana Islands.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Norway.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Oman.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Pakistan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Palau.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Panama.

Papua New Guinea

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Papua New Guinea.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Paraguay.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Peru.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Philippines.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Poland.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Portugal.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Puerto Rico.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Qatar.

Republic of the Congo

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Republic of the Congo without restrictions.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Réunion.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Romania.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Rwanda.

Saint Barthélemy

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Barthélemy.

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Saint Lucia

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Lucia.

Saint Martin

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Martin.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Samoa.

São Tomé and Príncipe

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter São Tomé and Príncipe.

Saudi Arabia

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saudi Arabia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Senegal.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Serbia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Seychelles.

Sierra Leone

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Sierra Leone.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Singapore.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Slovakia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Slovenia.

Solomon Islands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Solomon Islands.

South Africa

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter South Africa.

South Korea

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter South Korea.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Spain.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Sri Lanka.

St. Maarten

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter St. Maarten.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Sudan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Suriname.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Sweden.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Switzerland.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Taiwan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tajikistan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tanzania.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Thailand.

The Bahamas

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter The Bahamas.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Togo.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tonga.

Trinidad and Tobago

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Trinidad and Tobago.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tunisia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Türkiye.

Turkmenistan

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, will not be allowed to enter Turkmenistan.

Turks and Caicos Islands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tuvalu.

U.S. Virgin Islands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Uganda.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the United Arab Emirates.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the United Kingdom.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Uruguay.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Uzbekistan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Vanuatu.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Vietnam.

Wallis and Futuna

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Wallis and Futuna.

Western Sahara

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, will not be allowed to enter Western Sahara.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Zambia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Zimbabwe.

Get trip-ready with at-home COVID-19 tests

How often is the data on this page updated.

We check for travel restriction information from government authorities daily, and update the page any time we get new information. The following information regarding travel restrictions for each country is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication.

How many countries are closed to visitors?

As of Sep 11, 2 countries have completely restricted entry to non-citizens and 5 are open but require quarantine and/or a negative COVID test.

Where can I travel without COVID restrictions?

Currently you can travel from the United States to 197 countries without restrictions. Please check our map to learn more.

Are there any other types of travel restrictions besides COVID-19 tests and quarantines?

These are the two main types of restrictions or requirements needed to travel into another country. However, the COVID-19 testing options are continually widening as new methods are developed. Different countries may accept results from different or multiple test types, so be sure to check the individual country's specific requirements.

What should I do if I get COVID-19 while in another country?

If you get COVID-19 while in another country, follow the local authority's recommendations. These may include hospitalization, self-isolating and testing in that country. Be sure to contact your travel insurance company and travel provider as well and inform them of your situation.

What should I do if the borders of the country I am visiting close?

Depending on your home country, you may need to change your departure date and return home as soon as possible. If that's the case, contact your travel provider to find the earliest departure.

Additional resources

• What you need to know
• Airline policies
• Hotel policies
• Car policies
• Tips for flying
• Tips for hotel
• Tips for vacation rental

If you're looking for personalized travel advice for your own travel plans like whether or not a restriction applies to your trip, we won't be able to answer any questions or offer advice. Please consult your local government's resources.

• COVID-19 travel advice

Considering travel during the pandemic? Take precautions to protect yourself from COVID-19.

A coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine can prevent you from getting COVID-19 or from becoming seriously ill due to COVID-19 . But even if you're vaccinated, it's still a good idea to take precautions to protect yourself and others while traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

If you've had all recommended COVID-19 vaccine doses, including boosters, you're less likely to become seriously ill or spread COVID-19 . You can then travel more safely within the U.S. and internationally. But international travel can still increase your risk of getting new COVID-19 variants.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you should avoid travel until you've had all recommended COVID-19 vaccine and booster doses.

Before you travel

As you think about making travel plans, consider these questions:

• Have you been vaccinated against COVID-19 ? If you haven't, get vaccinated. If the vaccine requires two doses, wait two weeks after getting your second vaccine dose to travel. If the vaccine requires one dose, wait two weeks after getting the vaccine to travel. It takes time for your body to build protection after any vaccination.
• Have you had any booster doses? Having all recommended COVID-19 vaccine doses, including boosters, increases your protection from serious illness.
• Are you at increased risk for severe illness? Anyone can get COVID-19 . But older adults and people of any age with certain medical conditions are at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19 .
• Do you live with someone who's at increased risk for severe illness? If you get infected while traveling, you can spread the COVID-19 virus to the people you live with when you return, even if you don't have symptoms.
• Does your home or destination have requirements or restrictions for travelers? Even if you've had all recommended vaccine doses, you must follow local, state and federal testing and travel rules.

Check local requirements, restrictions and situations

Some state, local and territorial governments have requirements, such as requiring people to wear masks, get tested, be vaccinated or stay isolated for a period of time after arrival. Before you go, check for requirements at your destination and anywhere you might stop along the way.

Keep in mind these can change often and quickly depending on local conditions. It's also important to understand that the COVID-19 situation, such as the level of spread and presence of variants, varies in each country. Check back for updates as your trip gets closer.

Travel and testing

For vaccinated people.

If you have been fully vaccinated, the CDC states that you don't need to get tested before or after your trip within the U.S. or stay home (quarantine) after you return.

If you're planning to travel internationally outside the U.S., the CDC states you don't need to get tested before your trip unless it's required at your destination. Before arriving to the U.S., you need a negative test within the last day before your arrival or a record of recovery from COVID-19 in the last three months.

After you arrive in the U.S., the CDC recommends getting tested with a viral test 3 to 5 days after your trip. If you're traveling to the U.S. and you aren't a citizen, you need to be fully vaccinated and have proof of vaccination.

You don't need to quarantine when you arrive in the U.S. But check for any symptoms. Stay at home if you develop symptoms.

For unvaccinated people

Testing before and after travel can lower the risk of spreading the virus that causes COVID-19 . If you haven't been vaccinated, the CDC recommends getting a viral test within three days before your trip. Delay travel if you're waiting for test results. Keep a copy of your results with you when you travel.

Repeat the test 3 to 5 days after your trip. Stay home for five days after travel.

If at any point you test positive for the virus that causes COVID-19 , stay home. Stay at home and away from others if you develop symptoms. Follow public health recommendations.

Stay safe when you travel

In the U.S., you must wear a face mask on planes, buses, trains and other forms of public transportation. The mask must fit snugly and cover both your mouth and nose.

Follow these steps to protect yourself and others when you travel:

• Get vaccinated.
• Keep distance between yourself and others (within about 6 feet, or 2 meters) when you're in indoor public spaces if you're not fully vaccinated. This is especially important if you have a higher risk of serious illness.
• Avoid contact with anyone who is sick or has symptoms.
• Avoid crowds and indoor places that have poor air flow (ventilation).
• Don't touch frequently touched surfaces, such as handrails, elevator buttons and kiosks. If you must touch these surfaces, use hand sanitizer or wash your hands afterward.
• Wear a face mask in indoor public spaces. The CDC recommends wearing the most protective mask possible that you'll wear regularly and that fits. If you are in an area with a high number of new COVID-19 cases, wear a mask in indoor public places and outdoors in crowded areas or when you're in close contact with people who aren't vaccinated.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Cover coughs and sneezes.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• If soap and water aren't available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub your hands together until they feel dry.
• Don't eat or drink on public transportation. That way you can keep your mask on the whole time.

Because of the high air flow and air filter efficiency on airplanes, most viruses such as the COVID-19 virus don't spread easily on flights. Wearing masks on planes has likely helped lower the risk of getting the COVID-19 virus on flights too.

However, air travel involves spending time in security lines and airport terminals, which can bring you in close contact with other people. Getting vaccinated and wearing a mask when traveling can help protect you from COVID-19 while traveling.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has increased cleaning and disinfecting of surfaces and equipment, including bins, at screening checkpoints. TSA has also made changes to the screening process:

• Travelers must wear masks during screening. However, TSA employees may ask travelers to adjust masks for identification purposes.
• Travelers should keep a distance of 6 feet apart from other travelers when possible.
• Instead of handing boarding passes to TSA officers, travelers should place passes (paper or electronic) directly on the scanner and then hold them up for inspection.
• Each traveler may have one container of hand sanitizer up to 12 ounces (about 350 milliliters) in a carry-on bag. These containers will need to be taken out for screening.
• Personal items such as keys, wallets and phones should be placed in carry-on bags instead of bins. This reduces the handling of these items during screening.
• Food items should be carried in a plastic bag and placed in a bin for screening. Separating food from carry-on bags lessens the likelihood that screeners will need to open bags for inspection.

Be sure to wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds directly before and after going through screening.

Public transportation

If you travel by bus or train and you aren't vaccinated, be aware that sitting or standing within 6 feet (2 meters) of others for a long period can put you at higher risk of getting or spreading COVID-19 . Follow the precautions described above for protecting yourself during travel.

Even if you fly, you may need transportation once you arrive at your destination. You can search car rental options and their cleaning policies on the internet. If you plan to stay at a hotel, check into shuttle service availability.

If you'll be using public transportation and you aren't vaccinated, continue physical distancing and wearing a mask after reaching your destination.

Hotels and other lodging

The hotel industry knows that travelers are concerned about COVID-19 and safety. Check any major hotel's website for information about how it's protecting guests and staff. Some best practices include:

• Enhanced cleaning procedures
• Physical distancing recommendations indoors for people who aren't vaccinated
• Mask-wearing and regular hand-washing by staff
• Mask-wearing indoors for guests in public places in areas that have high cases of COVID-19
• Vaccine recommendations for staff
• Isolation and testing guidelines for staff who've been exposed to COVID-19
• Contactless payment
• Set of rules in case a guest becomes ill, such as closing the room for cleaning and disinfecting
• Indoor air quality measures, such as regular system and air filter maintenance, and suggestions to add air cleaners that can filter viruses and bacteria from the air

Vacation rentals, too, are enhancing their cleaning procedures. They're committed to following public health guidelines, such as using masks and gloves when cleaning, and building in a waiting period between guests.

Make a packing list

When it's time to pack for your trip, grab any medications you may need on your trip and these essential safe-travel supplies:

• Alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol)
• Disinfectant wipes (at least 70% alcohol)
• Thermometer

Considerations for people at increased risk

Anyone can get very ill from the virus that causes COVID-19 . But older adults and people of any age with certain medical conditions are at increased risk for severe illness. This may include people with cancer, serious heart problems and a weakened immune system. Getting the recommended COVID-19 vaccine and booster doses can help lower your risk of being severely ill from COVID-19 .

Travel increases your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19 . If you're unvaccinated, staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19 . If you must travel and aren't vaccinated, talk with your health care provider and ask about any additional precautions you may need to take.

Remember safety first

Even the most detailed and organized plans may need to be set aside when someone gets ill. Stay home if you or any of your travel companions:

• Have signs or symptoms, are sick or think you have COVID-19
• Are waiting for results of a COVID-19 test
• Have been diagnosed with COVID-19
• Have had close contact with someone with COVID-19 in the past five days and you're not up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines

If you've had close contact with someone with COVID-19 , get tested after at least five days. Wait to travel until you have a negative test. Wear a mask if you travel up to 10 days after you've had close contact with someone with COVID-19 .

• How to protect yourself and others. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html. Accessed Feb. 4, 2022.
• Domestic travel during COVID-19. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/travel-during-covid19.html. Accessed Feb. 4, 2022.
• Requirement for face masks on public transportation conveyances and at transportation hubs. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/face-masks-public-transportation.html. Accessed Feb. 4, 2022.
• International travel. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/international-travel/index.html. Accessed Feb. 4, 2022.
• U.S citizens, U.S. nationals, U.S. lawful permanent residents, and immigrants: Travel to and from the United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/international-travel-during-covid19.html. Accessed Feb. 4, 2022.
• Non-US. citizen, non-U.S. immigrants: Air travel to the United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/noncitizens-US-air-travel.html. Accessed Feb. 4, 2022.
• People with certain medical conditions. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html. Accessed Feb. 4, 2022.
• Stay up to date with your vaccines. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html. Accessed Feb. 4, 2022.
• Pack smart. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/pack-smart. Accessed Feb. 4, 2022.
• Travel: Frequently asked questions. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/faqs.html. Accessed Feb. 7, 2022.
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) information. Transportation Security Administration. https://www.tsa.gov/coronavirus. Accessed Feb. 7, 2022.
• WHO advice for international traffic in relation to the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant (B.1.1.529). World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/articles-detail/who-advice-for-international-traffic-in-relation-to-the-sars-cov-2-omicron-variant. Accessed Feb. 7, 2022.
• VRHP/VRMA Cleaning guidelines for COVID-19. Vacation Rental Management Association. https://www.vrma.org/page/vrhp/vrma-cleaning-guidelines-for-covid-19. Accessed Feb. 7, 2022.
• Safe stay. American Hotel & Lodging Association. https://www.ahla.com/safestay. Accessed Feb. 7, 2022.
• Khatib AN, et al. COVID-19 transmission and the safety of air travel during the pandemic: A scoping review. Current Opinion in Infectious Diseases. 2021; doi:10.1097/QCO.0000000000000771.

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U.S. travel resources

• Check CDC recommendations for travel within the U.S.
• Review testing requirements for travel to the U.S.
• Look up restrictions at your destination .
• Review airport security measures .

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Coronavirus: Must-Know Info

Covid-19 testing for travel: if, when, where, and how.

COVID-19 testing can make travel safer — but you need to do it right. Here, experts weigh in on strategies to follow before, during, and after a trip.

It’s the third summer of the pandemic, and by now we know one thing: If you’re traveling, you may need to ponder if, when, where, and how to get a test for COVID-19 .

If you’re an American flying to another country, you no longer need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test (or documentation of recent recovery from COVID-19) before you can board a plane back to the United States.

Still, you might need or want to get tested for COVID-19 once or multiple times while you’re away. This will depend on where you’re going, what you’re doing, whom you’ll be spending time with, and how you feel day to day.

Generally speaking, the higher the COVID-19 rates at your destination, the more likely testing will be part of your travel experience. With infections on the rise in many states and other countries, it’s important to stay informed — and testing-ready.

“A lot of things are changing very quickly,” says David Banach, MD, MPH , a hospital epidemiologist at UConn Health in Farmington, Connecticut. “I think the key is to be alert to what’s happening right before you travel.”

Here, doctors and other expert sources offer advice on how and when to test, and how to keep yourself and those around you safe no matter where you travel.

1. Well Before You Leave Home, Get Up to Speed on Your Destination

Especially for international travel, you’ll want to do your research to learn the latest COVID-19 entry regulations and figure out a strategy.

Many countries, such as England and Mexico, currently have no COVID-related entry rules in effect, either involving testing or vaccination.

But if you plan to travel to France from the United States and are unvaccinated, you'll need to show proof of either a negative PCR test taken less than 72 hours before departure or a negative antigen (rapid) test administered less than 48 hours prior to your flight.

The only way to get out of this testing requirement is to show documentation of recent recovery from COVID-19 or of a medical exemption from vaccination.

2. Rules or No Rules, Consider Testing Before You Travel

Regardless of the regulations at your destination, “Generally a cautious approach would be to test before traveling,” says Dr. Banach.

The CDC advises anyone traveling within the United States or internationally to “consider getting tested as close to the time of departure as possible (no more than three days) before your trip.”

Should you get a PCR test, or is an antigen test or at-home test just as good? “The increased sensitivity of the PCR test provides a higher level of reassurance,” says Banach.

3. Pack At-Home Tests in Case You Start Feeling Sick While You’re Away

Bring a stash of at-home testing kits with you so it’s more convenient to do a quick check during your trip. “When you travel, if you develop any symptoms, you’ll want to have ready access to tests,” says Luis Ostrosky, MD , the chief of infectious diseases with UTHealth Houston and Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center.

“You should definitely test when you have the slightest symptoms,” he adds. “I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard, ‘I thought it was just allergies.’”

He explains that FDA-authorized at-home test kits are good at detecting COVID-19 in people who have symptoms, such as sore throat or cough. If your at-home test is positive, you’ve got COVID-19.

There is a higher chance of false negatives with at-home kits, meaning your test result tells you that you are not infected when in fact you are. Don’t let a negative result from a single at-home test give you a false sense of security, Dr. Ostrosky emphasizes.

To increase accuracy, “We recommend retesting a couple of times,” he says. That’s why kits generally contain two tests, to be used 24 to 48 hours apart.

4. Find Out Where You Can Get a PCR Test at Your Destination

If you’re experiencing symptoms but test negative on multiple home tests, it’s best to get a PCR test too.

Plus, if you’re feeling perfectly fine but want to be sure you’re infection-free — because you’re planning to spend time with an elderly person at risk of severe COVID-19, for instance — you may want to get a PCR test on top of taking other precautions like masking.

For domestic travelers, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) site can point you to a  testing location near you anywhere in the United States.

If you’re traveling internationally, you might want to do some digging ahead of time. A quick internet search may be all you need to find a PCR testing site, or the staff at your hotel might be able to point you to a local hospital, urgent care center, or other testing location.

Make sure to find out if your insurance will cover the test, or expect to pay out of pocket.

5. Consider Whether You Should Test When You Get Home

Should you test when you get back from your trip? The CDC recommends you do so in certain scenarios, even if you don’t have symptoms (as long as you haven’t had COVID-19 in the past 90 days).

“Get tested after travel if your trip involved situations with greater risk of exposure, such as being in crowded places while not wearing a well-fitting mask or respirator,” the agency advises.

You also want to think about what you’ll be doing once you’re home, and the likelihood that if you’re infected you might spread the virus to other people. “Will you be engaging in group activities? With others at higher risk? There are a lot of factors,” says Banach.

Note that any infection you may have picked up while in transit could spread to others even before virus levels rise high enough for an at-home or rapid test to detect, so plan your first few days at home accordingly.

6. Practice COVID-19 Safety Throughout Your Trip, and After You Get Home

COVID-19 testing won’t keep you from getting COVID. You still need to practice other key safety measures — including staying up-to-date on your vaccines and boosters, masking, social distancing, and hand hygiene — to help keep yourself safe and lower the risk that you’ll infect others.

Even though airlines no longer require masks, wearing one when you’re in the airport and on the plane is still a smart idea, says Banach: “I think masking during travel, particularly air travel, is still important. I encourage people to wear a high-quality mask during travel, to protect yourself and others who will be on the flight with you. Also, [wear a mask] if you’re using another travel modality, like a train or bus.”

Ostrosky adds, “The airflow in airplanes is excellent and HEPA-filtered. The problem is when you’re sitting right next to someone with COVID — the airflow won’t help you. You should be masking, either with a double surgical mask or with an N95 or KN95, and not remove it at all.”

Says Ostrosky. “The best thing to keep yourself safe is to mask in high-density public settings like airports, airplanes, concerts, amusement parks — indoors or outdoors. And it’s definitely preferable to do outdoor dining versus indoor dining.”

Regardless of where you’re going and how often you plan to test, keep this one tip in mind throughout your trip, says Ostrosky: “Mask, mask, and mask.”

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Ask a Travel Nerd: What COVID Test Is Required for Travel?

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Note: Certain regulations mentioned below, including the CDC's requirement of a negative COVID-19 test to enter the U.S., have changed since publication. Check the CDC's news page for the most up-to-date information.

So you’re looking to get back into traveling — but things have changed since the last time you hopped on a plane. From new testing requirements to quarantine concerns, the experience of travel is different from what it once was. It can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.

Let’s take a look at what COVID tests are required for travel and where you can get them.

The different types of COVID tests

Not all COVID-19 tests are the same. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, there are two major types of COVID tests: diagnostic tests and antibody tests.

Diagnostic tests can show if you have an active COVID-19 infection. These tests can be further broken down into molecular and antigen tests, both of which detect an active COVID-19 infection.

Antibody tests look for the presence of antibodies against the coronavirus in your immune system. Since it can take days or even weeks for antibodies to develop, antibody tests aren’t good at testing for active COVID infections.

Plenty of countries require a negative diagnostic COVID test for travel from outside their borders, including the U.S. and many countries within the European Union.

» Learn more: The majority of Americans plan to travel this year, according to recent NerdWallet study

Where can I get a COVID test for travel?

Whether you need a COVID test to get where you’re going depends on your destination . Thankfully for travelers based in the U.S., there are many COVID testing centers located around the country.

Where to get a COVID test for international travel

As already mentioned, different countries may or may not require a COVID test. Before scheduling your testing, check the regulations for your intended destination.

Once you’ve found the travel requirements for that locale, make an appointment for your test. It’s simple to find COVID test locations online; the easiest method is by doing a search on your local pharmacy's website. You may also want to go through your health insurance if that’s an option.

Be aware that each country has a validity period for accepting COVID tests. Israel, for example, requires that a test be taken within 72 hours of departure.

Restrictions vary by country, but some will allow you to enter without a COVID test if you’re fully vaccinated.

Where to get a COVID test for travel to the U.S.

If you’re already overseas and want to return home, you also need to take a COVID test. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, beginning Dec. 6, 2021, you need to have a test completed no more than one day prior to your air travel back to the U.S. if you're vaccinated. Unvaccinated travelers must complete a test within one day of their flight. If you’ve recently been infected with COVID-19, you can also opt to show proof of recovery.

This requirement is for all air passengers at least 2 years of age.

The U.S. will accept several different COVID tests for reentry, and many countries have COVID testing readily available. You can check U.S. embassy websites to see if a given country has tests available for U.S. citizens. It's also a good idea to check directly with the hotel you're staying at. It may have on-site COVID testing available or a list of local providers.

Alternatively, you can take advantage of a virtually proctored at-home COVID test (one that's done over a video call with a health professional) in order to satisfy U.S. requirements. Just confirm beforehand that a lab report is provided and the test is FDA-approved. These tests are highly convenient; you can purchase them before traveling and bring them with you. There are a few different at-home testing options available, including some in a multipack if you’re traveling with family.

» Learn more: Hotels now offering COVID tests ahead of return trips to the U.S.

If you need a COVID test to travel

Travel in the COVID-19 era isn’t quite as straightforward as it used to be. However, preparing now can save you a headache down the line. Do your research, figure out your destination’s requirements and schedule your COVID test to make your travel as simple as possible.

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COVID-19 Testing for International Travel: What U.S. Travelers Need to Know

By Amanda Wowk

January 11, 2022

Travel Tips

Two months ago, I flew on my first international flight since the start of the pandemic. And while I have spent the better part of two years researching and writing about how COVID-19 has reshaped the travel landscape —including changing air travel requirements —I still found the process of planning to comply with said requirements confusing. 

For the first time, I had to make decisions about how I would comply—i.e., should I book my COVID-19 tests locally, or purchase at-home tests to bring with me?—as well as how to prepare for the worst—as in, what’s my plan if I test positive abroad?

Like many travelers, I saw my destination’s requirements change from the time I booked my trip, to when I actually took my trip, and of course, after I returned from my trip, too (looking at you, Omicron). 

Given the fluid nature of international travel requirements, here’s what you need to know (as a U.S. traveler) to be as prepared as possible to comply and fly. 

Who needs to test for international travel? 

In short, everyone. Because regardless of your vaccination status (or international destination), all inbound travelers to the U.S. must provide a negative test result before boarding. As of December 6, 2021, all passengers traveling to the U.S. must get tested (and provide a negative result) for COVID-19 no more than one calendar day before departure. Previously, the requirement was within three days from departure.

But let’s back up. What about the requirements of your destination outside the U.S.? That’s where requirements can vary widely—and change constantly. 

For example, back in November, I flew from Detroit (DTW) to Edinburgh, UK (EDI) via Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS). At the time, I was required to take two tests—the UK’s Day 2 test and the pre-departure test required by the U.S. 

Because I was in transit and for the allotted window of time, I did not need to show proof of vaccination or test results during my layover at AMS. That said, if I had plans to stay in Amsterdam, I would have been subject to additional requirements. 

Tip: Always check the destination requirements for your layover airports. Some countries have entry requirements (including proof of vaccination and/or testing) that apply to travelers regardless of your length of stay.

As you plan your next international trip, be sure to research and prepare to comply with the testing requirements at your destination as well as those for when you return home. Keep in mind that these requirements might change between booking and traveling—or even while you’re on your trip. 

Also keep in mind that vaccination requirements vary from country to country, as well. While you may not need to be vaccinated for entry, you may be required to quarantine and/or subject to additional testing during your trip. 

Read more: TripIt Adds New Enhancements for Navigating Travel Based on Your Vaccination Status 

Where can I find information about my destination’s testing requirements? 

To stay in the know about testing requirements related to my trip, I consulted TripIt’s COVID-19 guidance feature as well as my destination’s official government website (in my case, the Scottish government’s COVID-19 advice for international travelers ). 

Your airline might also provide you with this information, as well as provide guidance to help you fulfill those requirements. 

For example, after booking my flights, Delta Air Lines sent me a pre-trip checklist, including resources for determining the testing requirements at my destination, as well as what I’d need to return to the U.S. 

Other airlines have also introduced similar resources. United Airlines launched its Travel-Ready Center to help passengers understand and comply with travel requirements. American Airlines also created a similar toolkit . 

Where can I get a COVID-19 test? 

… the magic question. Thankfully, TripIt’s COVID-19 guidance feature showed me that my airline offered assistance with booking tests . Some of the options available to me were: 

• Pre-purchase at-home tests that I could take with me on my trip
• Book tests at a testing facility, e.g., the local airport 

I chose to pre-purchase two tests to bring with me: a self-administered PCR test that I would need to drop in the mail to satisfy my Day 2 Test requirements, and a rapid test conducted via live video observation to satisfy the pre-departure test requirement for entry to the U.S.

While pre-purchasing tests was certainly the more costly option (versus booking locally), I was willing to pay for the peace of mind. That said, I know of other travelers who’ve preferred to book tests at their hotels, local pharmacies , and/or local testing sites. 

Tip: Be sure to research the requirements related to the tests you need to take during your trip. For example, the UK requires all international travelers to complete a Passenger Locator Form before departure (I had to show this form upon checking in at DTW). On this form, I had to provide the confirmation number of my pre-booked Day 2 test. In other words, I couldn’t have left the booking/taking of this test up to chance, or until I arrived in the UK. It had to be booked ahead of my trip. 

That may not be the case at your intended destination, but be sure you find out this information ahead of your trip. 

Read more: Now Arriving: COVID-19 Travel Guidance in TripIt

How will I present my negative test result(s) at the airport? What other documentation will I need?

While many airlines have adopted vaccine passport apps where you can upload your test results directly, others are yet to go the digital route. 

In my case, I had my negative test results on my phone (both in a PDF doc in my email, as well as in the testing provider’s app). Upon my return journey to the U.S., I presented the digital test results at the EDI airport check-in counter. I was also asked to present my CDC COVID-19 vaccination card at this time. (Note: As a U.S. citizen, I did not have to be vaccinated to return to the U.S. However, at the time of publication, all non-citizens are required to show proof of vaccination for entry to the U.S.)

During my return layover at AMS, I was required to complete a U.S. entry attestation form stating that I had tested negative for COVID-19 (or had recovered/could provide a recovery certificate) and that I was fully vaccinated. The completed document is required for check-in and/or boarding, per U.S. federal law. 

All of my travel documents—attestation form, CDC card, and negative test result—were reviewed by an airline employee prior to boarding. 

What happens if I test positive for COVID-19 when I’m abroad? 

Let’s face it: this is a very real risk. 

One that you should plan ahead for, because if you test positive while abroad, you will have to quarantine—at your destination—until you recover. 

Some destinations have specific requirements, such as buying mandatory COVID-19 health insurance prior to your trip and/or quarantining in government-mandated facilities. Others have less robust infrastructure, but will still require you to quarantine at a hotel or vacation rental—likely at your own expense. 

Some travel insurance policies can help offset the costs of extending your trip due to a positive test result. There are also services available to fly you home—privately—should you test positive and require medical evacuation. 

Regardless of which level of preparedness you choose, remember to always take the necessary safety precautions to prevent contracting (and/or spreading) COVID-19 while you’re traveling, including following all local guidelines and mandates. 

As a reminder, you can find out about your destination’s vaccination and testing requirements as well as information about scheduling COVID-19 tests through your airline right in TripIt’s COVID-19 guidance feature. These details are available to all TripIt users. 

And if you’re a TripIt Pro user, you can also search the feature to find this information for destinations you’re planning to visit without needing them to be part of a TripIt itinerary right in the Pro tab of the app.

• A Beginner’s Guide to Global Entry
• 4 Travel Trends That Shaped 2021

About the Author

Amanda Wowk

Amanda Wowk is a freelance writer, founder of Amanda Wowk Creative — a content writing services company — and avid traveler. Her experience spans the travel industry, supporting clients in travel tech, luxury travel, and consumer brands. When she's not helping clients tell their stories, Amanda writes about her own experiences to inspire others to travel as far, wide, and frequently as possible.

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Updated International Air Travel COVID-19 Policy

⚠   The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency expired as of May 11, 2023. This site will no longer be updated and will remain online for historical purposes only.

For current COVID-19 guidance, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) .

International travel is critical to connecting families and friends, to fueling small and large businesses, and to promoting the open exchange of ideas and culture. The international air travel policy follows the science and both enhances the safety of Americans here at home and the safety of international air travel.

Testing Requirement

On March 10, 2023, CDC  removed  the requirement for air passengers from China, Hong Kong or Macau to show a negative COVID-19 test or documentation of recovery before boarding a flight to the United States.

Vaccination Requirement

As of 12:01am EDT on May 12, 2023, noncitizen nonimmigrant air passengers will no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated with an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to board a flight to the United States. See  here  for more information.

While masks are no longer required on flights, The CDC still recommends wearing them. 

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US lifts COVID-19 test requirement for international travel

FILE - Passengers get a COVID-19 test at Heathrow Airport in London, Nov. 29, 2021. The Biden administration is lifting its requirement that international air travelers to the U.S. take a COVID-19 test within a day before boarding their flights, easing one of the last remaining government mandates meant to contain the spread of the coronavirus. A senior administration official says the mandate expires Sunday at 12:01 a.m. Eastern time. The official says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has determined that it’s no longer necessary. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein, File)

FILE - Travelers pass a sign near a COVID-19 testing site in Terminal E at Logan Airport, on Dec. 21, 2021, in Boston .The Biden administration is lifting its requirement that international air travelers to the U.S. take a COVID-19 test within a day before boarding their flights, easing one of the last remaining government mandates meant to contain the spread of the coronavirus. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File)

FILE - Travelers wait for COVID testing at Pittsburgh International Airport in Imperial, Pa., on Dec. 27, 2021. The Biden administration is lifting its requirement that international air travelers to the U.S. take a COVID-19 test within a day before boarding their flights, easing one of the last remaining government mandates meant to contain the spread of the coronavirus. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar, File)

FILE - Licensed vocational nurse Caren Williams, right, collects a nasal swab sample from a traveler at a COVID-19 testing site at the Los Angeles International Airport in Los Angeles, on Nov. 23, 2020. The Biden administration is lifting its requirement that international air travelers to the U.S. take a COVID-19 test within a day before boarding their flights, easing one of the last remaining government mandates meant to contain the spread of the coronavirus. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File)

President Joe Biden listens at a meeting with Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro during the Summit of the Americas, Thursday, June 9, 2022, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

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WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration is lifting its requirement that international travelers test negative for COVID-19 within a day before boarding a flight to the United States, ending one of the last remaining government mandates designed to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Friday that the requirement will end early Sunday morning. The health agency said it will continue to monitor state of the pandemic and will reassess the need for a testing requirement if the situation changes.

“This step is possible because of the progress we’ve made in our fight against COVID-19,” said U.S. Health Secretary Xavier Becerra.

Airline and tourism groups have been pressing the administration for months to eliminate the testing requirement, saying it discourages people from booking international trips because they could be stranded overseas if they contract the virus on their trip.

Roger Dow, president of the U.S. Travel Association, called lifting the testing rule “another huge step forward for the recovery of inbound air travel and the return of international travel to the United States.”

Airlines argued that the rule was put into effect when few Americans were vaccinated — now 71% of those 5 and older are fully vaccinated, according to CDC figures. They also complained that people entering the U.S. at land borders are not required to test negative for COVID-19, although they must show proof of vaccination.

While domestic U.S. travel has returned nearly to pre-pandemic levels, international travel — which is very lucrative for the airlines — has continued to lag. In May, U.S. international air travel remained 24% below 2019 levels, with declines among both U.S. and foreign citizens, according to trade group Airlines for America.

Many other countries have lifted their testing requirements for fully vaccinated and boosted travelers in a bid to increase tourism.

Some infectious-disease experts said they were comfortable with the CDC’s decision, and that lifting the restriction is unlikely to cause further spread of the virus in the U.S.

Dr. William Schaffner of Vanderbilt University said the rule was designed to prevent importing the virus, “but we’ve got plenty of COVID here. It’s like telling someone not to pour a bucket of water in their swimming pool.”

Dr. Peter Chin-Hong at the University of California, San Francisco, said travel restrictions demonstrate that officials are trying to keep variants out, “but they haven’t really shown to be beneficial, ever.” However, he said, requiring foreign visitors to be vaccinated makes sense to avoid straining the U.S. health-care system with people who could develop severe disease.

The requirement for a negative COVID-19 test before flying to the U.S. dates to January 2021 and is the most visible remaining U.S. travel restriction of the pandemic era.

In April, a federal judge in Florida struck down a requirement that passengers wear masks on planes and public transportation, saying that the CDC had exceeded its authority. The Biden administration is appealing that ruling, saying it aims to protect the CDC’s ability to respond to future health emergencies.

The Biden administration put the testing requirement in place as it moved away from rules that banned nonessential travel from dozens of countries — most of Europe, China, Brazil, South Africa, India and Iran — and focused instead on classifying individuals by the risk they pose to others. It was coupled with a requirement that foreign, non-immigrant adults traveling to the United States need to be fully vaccinated, with only limited exceptions.

The initial mandate allowed those who were fully vaccinated to show proof of a negative test within three days of travel, while unvaccinated people had to present a test taken within one day of travel.

In November, as the highly transmissible omicron variant swept the world, the Biden administration toughened the requirement and required all travelers — regardless of vaccination status — to test negative within a day of travel to the U.S.

In February, travel groups argued that the testing requirement was obsolete because of the high number of omicron cases already in every state, higher vaccinations rates and new treatments for the virus.

Meanwhile, travelers found creative ways around the rule. This spring, several Canadian teams in the National Hockey League flew to cities near the border, then took buses into the U.S. to avoid the risk of losing players who tested positive.

U.S. airlines estimate that dropping the test requirement will mean 4.3 million more passengers in one year.

It is unclear, however, whether airlines can boost flights quickly enough to handle that kind of increase. Airlines facing a shortage of pilots have already scaled back their original schedules for the peak summer vacation season.

Brett Snyder, a travel adviser who writes about the industry at CrankyFlier.com, said the requirement has caused some people to postpone international travel.

“It’s not that they are afraid of getting sick, they don’t want to get stuck,” Snyder said. He thinks there will now be a surge in booking those trips, “which, if anything, will lead to higher fares.”

Hotels, theme parks and other travel businesses also lobbied the administration to drop the rule.

“The whole industry has been waiting for this announcement,” said Martin Ferguson, a spokesman for American Express Global Business Travel, which advises companies on travel policy. He said there are few remaining pandemic policies that cause so much consternation for the travel sector, with China’s “zero-COVID” restrictions being another.

Despite ending the testing requirement, the CDC said it still recommends COVID-19 testing prior to air travel of any kind as a safety precaution.

Koenig reported from Dallas. AP Medical Reporter Mike Stobbe in New York contributed to this report.

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Starting on Sunday, you won't have to test for COVID-19 to fly into the U.S.

Ximena Bustillo

In this file photo, travelers pass a sign for COVID-19 testing at Logan Airport in Boston. The Biden administration is lifting its requirement for COVID testing before flying to the U.S. Charles Krupa/AP hide caption

In this file photo, travelers pass a sign for COVID-19 testing at Logan Airport in Boston. The Biden administration is lifting its requirement for COVID testing before flying to the U.S.

The Biden administration is planning to drop the requirement for air travelers coming to the United States to test negative for COVID-19 before departure, starting on Sunday, according to a senior administration official.

The official said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had determined the requirement was no longer needed. The requirement will lift effective Sunday, June 12th at 12:01 a.m. ET.

The CDC will reassess the decision in 90 days and could reinstate it if there were a new COVID variant of concern, the official said.

Since December, travelers have had to present a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than a day before departure​, or proof of recovery from the virus within the last 90 days.

Coronavirus Updates

Cdc drops its covid-19 risk advisory for cruise ship travel.

The administration official said the new step was possible because of vaccines and treatments that are now available — and said the CDC will continue to recommend that people get tested for COVID before flying, even though it's not mandatory.

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U.S. COVID-19 Testing Entry Requirements for International Travel

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• U.S. Entry Requirements , Go to footer note
• Attestation Form , Go to footer note
• Frequently Asked Questions , Go to footer note

U.S. Entry Requirements

All travelers must provide contact tracing information when entering or connecting through the U.S. Failure to provide the necessary information will result in being denied boarding, per the CDC order.

Important Details to Know:

• Covid-19 testing and vaccination are not required for travelers entering or connecting through the U.S. 
• Delta FlyReady SM offers customers the option to submit documentation for digital verification before check-in.
• View our Delta Discover Map to review entry requirements for a specific destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Travelers entering the U.S. are no longer required to complete an attestation form, but they are still required to complete the contact tracing form. 

Please check-in for digital verification using Delta FlyReady or visit our Delta Discover Map to review entry requirements for your specific trip. 

We are continuously monitoring safety and security protocols to ensure you have the latest information for your destination's specific entry and exit requirements. 

We strongly encourage you to review the latest travel requirements and restrictions for more information about current travel restrictions and resources to help you arrive prepared. Please also confirm any requirements for connecting airport destinations if applicable to your itinerary. 

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Travel and Covid-19: Answers to your questions

The entry, exit, and transit requirements for each country may differ greatly. We invite you to check all travel requirements (Covid-19 test, vaccines,...) for the countries through which you are due to transit directly on TravelDoc .

Check the type of test to be performed and its validity period

Check the approved vaccines and their validity requirements

What are the travel requirements for domestic flights within France and for flights to/from Corsica?

For all other destinations, please review the travel requirements for your flight on  TravelDoc .

I have a connection in Metropolitan France. Do I need to be tested or vaccinated?

If you are traveling to or from an international destination and have a connection in Metropolitan France, you must meet the conditions imposed by your destination country.

Please check  TravelDoc for the latest information regarding your travel requirements.

Where can I find real-time information on the latest travel requirements?

The TravelDoc website provides the latest information on travel requirements around the world. Visit TravelDoc

I am not vaccinated. Can I still travel?

If you are not vaccinated, please make sure to check the travel documents required for your trip on TravelDoc , as rules of entry and exit vary from country to country.  For flight to/from France, no test or vaccine is required.

What is "Ready to Fly"?

The free and time-saving "Ready to Fly" service allows you to upload all the required health documents for your travel before you arrive at the airport. If your booking is eligible for this service, you will receive an e-mail prompting you to upload your documents to our online platform a few days before your scheduled flight. You can download or print your boarding pass with “Ready to Fly” printed on it after your documents have been checked and approved. You will receive a notification with instructions if you are missing a document or if a document is incomplete.  Learn more .

Can I reschedule my flight if I test positive for Covid-19?

You can reschedule your flight if you test positive for Covid-19 in the days leading up to your trip if you get in touch with our customer service team before your scheduled departure date.

Covid-19 tests

When do i need to be tested to travel.

The validity period for Covid-19 tests is short: usually a few days before departure or arrival depending on the country. Visit TravelDoc to find out when to get tested before you travel. For more information on all domestic flights within France and flights to/from Corsica, please visit our FAQ on the health pass in France. Visit TravelDoc

How long is my test valid?

In most cases, the validity of a Covid-19 test is calculated based on: 

• The time and date of collection
• The time and date of departure of the first flight of your trip.

 However, exceptions are possible. Some countries calculate validity in days, not hours, or flight arrival rather than departure. Please visit TravelDoc to view the latest validity requirements for your trip.

  Traveling on a connecting flight?

Please refer to the above information to calculate your test’s validity period. If different validity periods are required for each flight in your booking, the shortest validity period applies from the start of your trip. Visit  TravelDoc

What type of Covid-19 test do I need for travel?

The type of Covid-19 test required varies by country. Visit TravelDoc to find out which test you will need to take before you travel. For more information on all domestic flights within France and flights to/from Corsica, please visit our FAQ on the health pass in France. Visit TravelDoc

Does my child need a Covid-19 test in order to travel? What are the age requirements?

Testing requirements for children depend on the destination country. Please consult TravelDoc to find out if your child needs to be tested for your trip. Visit TravelDoc

I've received my test result. What document do I need to show at the airport?

Some countries require a test certificate in digital or printed format, which may include a QR code. This certificate may be different from the result sent by your lab. Visit TravelDoc to verify which document to show at the airport. Visit TravelDoc

Does my test certificate need to be in a specific language?

Some countries accept a test certificate in English, others require it to be translated into the official language. See TravelDoc for more information. Visit TravelDoc

Vaccines against Covid-19

I have been vaccinated against covid-19. do i still need to get tested before i leave.

Some countries exempt vaccinated travelers from having to show a negative Covid-19 test. Check with TravelDoc to see if this applies to you. Remember to check the validity requirements, the type of vaccine allowed and the minimum time required between the last injection and entry into the country. Visit TravelDoc

I have been vaccinated against Covid-19. Do I still need to observe a quarantine upon arrival?

Some countries exempt vaccinated travelers from quarantine upon arrival. Check with TravelDoc to see if this applies to you. Be sure to check the validity requirements, the type of vaccine allowed and the minimum time required between the last injection and entry. Visit TravelDoc

What vaccines are authorized for travel?

Authorized vaccines vary from country to country, as do their validity conditions and the minimum time required between the last injection and entry into the country. In addition, some countries require all travelers, even those who have been vaccinated, to take a Covid-19 test or to observe a quarantine upon arrival. See TravelDoc for more information. Visit TravelDoc

U.S. Lifts COVID-19 Test Requirement For International Travel

The Biden administration is lifting its requirement that international air travelers to the U.S. take a COVID-19 test within a day before boarding their flights, easing one of the last remaining government mandates meant to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

A senior administration official said the mandate expires Sunday at 12:01 a.m. EDT, saying the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has determined that it's no longer necessary. The official, speaking Friday on the condition of anonymity to preview the formal announcement, said that the agency would reevaluate the need for the testing requirement every 90 days and that it could be reinstated if a troubling new variant emerges.

The Biden administration put in place the testing requirement last year, as it moved away from restrictions that banned nonessential travel from several dozen countries — most of Europe, China, Brazil, South Africa, India and Iran — and instead focuses on classifying individuals by the risk they pose to others. It came in conjunction with a requirement that foreign, non-immigrant adults traveling to the United States need to be fully vaccinated, with only limited exceptions.

The initial mandate allowed those who were fully vaccinated to show proof of a negative test within three days of travel, while unvaccinated people had to present a test taken within one day of travel.

In November, as the highly transmissible Omicron variant swept the world, the Biden administration toughened the requirement and required all travelers, regardless of vaccination status, to test within a day of travel to the U.S.

Airline and tourism groups have been pressing the administration for months to eliminate the testing requirement, saying it is discouraging people from booking international trips. Many other countries have lifted their testing requirements for fully vaccinated and boosted travelers in a bid to increase tourism.

In February, the groups argued the testing requirement was obsolete because of the high number of Omicron cases already in every state, higher vaccinations rates and new treatments for the virus.

"I'm glad CDC suspended the burdensome coronavirus testing requirement for international travelers, and I'll continue to do all I can to support the strong recovery of our hospitality industry," Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto said in a statement.

The lifting of the requirement comes six weeks after a federal judge ended the CDC's mask requirement for mass transit, including trains, planes, buses and transit hubs, saying the agency exceeded its authority. The Biden administration is appealing that ruling, saying it aims to protect the CDC's ability to respond to future health emergencies.

The official said the CDC will continue to recommend COVID-19 testing prior to air travel of any kind as a safety precaution.

Additional reporting by The Associated Press.  

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COVID-19: Travel, testing and borders

Return or travel to canada.

For all travellers entering Canada by air, land or marine mode:

• Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is not required
• Pre-board testing is not required
• COVID-19 pre-entry and arrival tests are not required
• Quarantine after you enter Canada is not required
• to save time at the border, you can use Advance Declaration in ArriveCAN to submit your customs and immigration declaration before flying into Canada
• Pre-boarding tests for cruise passengers are not required
• As always, travel documents are required
• Health checks to board planes and trains are not required
• It's strongly recommended that you wear a well-constructed and well-fitted mask or respirator while you travel

If you have symptoms of COVID-19 , you shouldn't travel to Canada.

If you feel sick or experience any symptoms of COVID-19 during your travel to Canada or upon arrival, you should:

• inform the flight attendant, cruise staff or a border services officer upon arrival. You may be referred to a Quarantine Officer for a health assessment and further direction.
• avoid taking public transportation
• check provincial or territorial requirements for what you need to do if you’re symptomatic or have tested positive for COVID-19

Travelling in and out of Canada

• International travel advice and advisories
• COVID-19 and international travel
• Proof of vaccination
• Find out if you need a visa

Wearing masks on planes and trains in Canada is not required.

• It's still strongly recommended that you wear a high quality and well-fitted mask or respirator while you travel

Situation in Canada

• COVID-19 guidance, vaccines, limiting the spread
• Summary data about travellers, testing and compliance

The Government of Canada will continue to monitor the situation. See the COVID-19 border measures backgrounder .

Update April 12, 2024

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The Administration will end the COVID-19 vaccine requirements for international air travelers at the end of the day on May 11, the same day that the COVID-19 public health emergency ends. This means starting May 12, noncitizen nonimmigrant air passengers will no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated with an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to board a flight to the United States. CDC’s Amended Order Implementing Presidential Proclamation on Safe Resumption of Global Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic will no longer be in effect when the Presidential Proclamation Advancing the Safe Resumption of Global Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic is revoked .

Please see: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/05/01/the-biden-administration-will-end-covid-19-vaccination-requirements-for-federal-employees-contractors-international-travelers-head-start-educators-and-cms-certified-facilities/

Coronavirus Info: the situation in France

Inspiration

Reading time: 0 min Published on 24 October 2023, updated on 23 April 2024

Consult French government recommendations to learn more about travel and health measures in place.

From 1 August, border health measures are lifted for travel to and from France. Although it is no longer compulsory, masks are still recommended in transport, enclosed and crowded areas, in large gatherings for vulnerable people and in hospitals

Travellers no longer have to complete any formalities related to Covid 19 before arriving in France, in metropolitan France or overseas, and the presentation of a health pass can no longer be required, regardless of the country or zone of origin.

No further justification for travel ("compelling reason") can be required.

Travellers are no longer required to present a sworn statement of non-contamination or an undertaking to undergo an antigenic test or biological examination on arrival in the country. The same applies to travel between metropolitan France and each of the overseas territories.

However, "emergency brake" measures may be activated until 31 January 2023, for a maximum period of two months, such as the presentation of a negative screening test on entry into the national territory for passengers coming from a foreign country where a new dangerous variant of Covid-19 appears and circulates, or for passengers travelling to the overseas territories "in the event of a risk of saturation" of their health system.

For more details on the measures taken on French territory, consult the Government / Coronavirus Info site .

Other measures and restrictions

Gatherings, meetings or activities on public roads bringing together more than 10 people simultaneously are prohibited.

The consumption of alcohol on public roads is prohibited.

The obligation to wear a mask outdoors was lifted on 17 June, with some exceptions such as in crowds, queues, market and stadiums. However, it is compulsory in public spaces in certain areas, by decision of the prefects. These areas are indicated by signs or posters.

Since 9 August, in places where a health pass is required, wearing a mask is no longer compulsory. However, the organiser, the operator and the prefect have the possibility to make it compulsory.

A fine of €135 will be charged in the event of non-compliance with wearing a mask in the places concerned, up to €3,750 in the event of a repeat offence.

Wearing a mask is compulsory on public transport. Travellers should ensure that the greatest possible distance is maintained between passengers or groups of passengers not travelling together. More information is available on the SNCF and RATP websites.

Wearing a mask is compulsory in taxis and rideshares.

Consult Covid-19 FAQs on the French government website here .

Travelling to Corsica

A specific system has been put in place for travel to Corsica.

Since 16 July, anyone over the age of 12 wishing to travel to Corsica from mainland France must be able to produce a sworn statement of no symptoms

This declaration must be accompanied by: - either a proof of full vaccination status - or, for unvaccinated persons, the negative result of an RT-PCR test carried out less than 72 hours or antigen test carried out less than 48 hours before boarding. - or a certificate of immunity for persons who have already contracted Covid. This proof consists of a positive RT-PCR or antigenic screening result carried out more than eleven days and less than six months before travel.

These documents (paper version or digital version via the TousAntiCovid application) must be presented to the transport company upon boarding.

Transport companies will deny boarding to travellers without the required documents.

Further info is available from the Corsican Regional Health Agency .

Travelling to French overseas territories and departments

A health emergency has been declared in the territories of Guadeloupe, Saint-Martin, Saint-Barthélemy, Martinique and Réunion. Measures have been reinforced to slow down the progression of the epidemic: - For Guadeloupe: a lockdown is in force from 8pm to 5am. From 5am to 8pm, only travel within a 10km radius is allowed, beyond which a receipt will be required; - For Martinique: a lockdown is in force from 7pm to 5am. From 5am to 7pm, only travel within a 10km radius is allowed, beyond that a receipt will be required; - For Reunion Island: a lockdown is in force from 6pm to 5am. From 5am to 6pm, only travel within a 10km radius on weekdays and 5km on Sundays is allowed, beyond which proof of identity will be required; - For Saint-Martin and Saint-Barthélemy: a curfew is in force from 10pm to 5am. Only travel for compelling reasons is allowed and must be justified.

A curfew is still in force in French Guiana and in Walis and Futuna.

For air travel to the French overseas territories, a negative PCR test result from within 72 hours or antigen test result from within 48 hours prior to boarding remains an obligation for passengers coming from France or other green or amber countries . Travellers from a red country must provide a negative PCR or antigen test result less than 48 hours old.

For domestic flights between the French overseas territories: in view of the local epidemiological situation, the prefect may impose compelling reasons for departure from and arrival in the territories. The supporting documents are then checked by the airlines or the Border Police.

International flights: Restrictions are decided locally by the State representative or relevant authority.

The Ministry of Overseas Territories encourages people wishing to travel to an overseas territory to find out in advance about the restrictions in place on the website of the prefecture or the high commission.

International travel

On 9 June, travel between France and foreign countries was reopened according to the varying situation in each country and travellers' vaccination status. A classification of countries has been defined by the health data and can be changed at any time. The country lists can be found on the government website .

From 17 July, all fully vaccinated travellers from countries classified as green, amber or red have been permitted to enter France without restrictions.

• 'Green' countries: no active circulation of the virus, no variants of concern identified. EU Member States as well as Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland and the Vatican. The following countries are also included: Albania, Australia, Bahrain, Bosnia, Brunei, Canada, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kosovo, Lebanon, Northern Macedonia, Montenegro, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Ukraine, the United States, the Union of Comoros and Vanuatu. On 17 July, Spain, Portugal, Cyprus, the Netherlands and Greece were put on the green 'watchlist'. Fully vaccinated travellers from green-list countries can enter France without a PCR test result. Unvaccinated travellers (from 12 years old) must present a negative PCR or antigen test result of less than 72 hours old (less than 24 hours for the countries on the 'watchlist': Spain, Portugal, Cyprus, the Netherlands and Greece). Children under 12 years of age are exempt from testing.

• 'Amber' countries: active circulation of the virus in controlled proportions, but without the spread of variants of concern. All countries, except 'green' and 'red' countries. Vaccinated travellers from these countries may enter the country without a PCR test. Unvaccinated international travellers must have a compelling reason and must present a negative RT-PCR test less than 72 hours old or a negative antigen test less than 48 hours old before departure (PCR or antigen test less than 24 hours old for the UK). Children under 12 years old are exempt from testing. A random test may be carried out on arrival at the point of entry. Finally, travellers will be required to carry out a 7-day self-isolation.

• 'Red' countries: active virus circulation and variants of concern. Afghanistan, Argentina, Bangladesh, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Democratic Republic of Congo, Indonesia, the Maldives, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal, Oman, Pakistan, Russia, the Seychelles, South Africa, Suriname and Tunisia. Fully vaccinated travellers from these countries may enter without a PCR test. Unvaccinated international travellers must show a compelling reason and a negative RT-PCR or antigen test less than 48 hours before departure. They will also be required to undergo an antigenic test on arrival and a 10-day self-isolation period monitored by the authorities.

Travellers to and from an EU country:

For travel within the European Union, a compelling reason is not currently needed, but pre-testing requirements are necessary.

Spain, Portugal, Cyprus, the Netherlands and Greece were placed under surveillance on 17 July within the EU, requiring travellers to produce a negative test result of less than 24 hours old (compared with 72 hours for other green-list countries).

Since 1 July, the health pass scheme has been adopted across Europe. All proof of testing, vaccination or recovery is now collected on a single pass called the 'EU digital Covid certificate'. European travellers can present the certificate's QR code to border police or airlines without worrying about the language in which the certificate is written. A green or red light indicates whether the EU traveller can enter or not. It is also possible to present a paper version of the pass.

States may also establish additional health measures if necessary (e.g. testing or quarantine).

Travellers from a non-EU country (vaccinated abroad):

In order to facilitate the stay of non-EU tourists in France, the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs has set up a specific mechanism for issuing a COVID vaccine certificate of equivalence, which is valid on French territory.

Initially, this system is only open to non-EU tourists who are already in France or who will arrive on or before 22 August. Requests concerning subsequent arrivals at will be processed at a later date.

Prepare the following documents, only in electronic format:

• Application form ;
• Your vaccination certificate , drawn up according to the rules of the country of vaccination, and clearly stating the type of vaccine used;
• Your passport ;
• Your travel ticket (return ticket).

Send these documents (in .pdf, .jpg or .png format) by e-mail only to the relevant address based on your place of residence. Attachments in .zip format will not be processed.

Zone 1 (United States) : [email protected] Zone 2 (Canada ): [email protected] Zone 3 (Rest of world) : [email protected]

Applications received through other means will not be processed.

To facilitate the processing of applications, e-mail subject lines must be set out as follows:

COUNTRY OF RESIDENCE / SURNAME First name / Date of arrival in France in the format DD-MM-21 For example: USA / DURAND Anne / DD-MM-YY

Incomplete applications will not be processed. You will have to submit a new application. Don’t forget to complete and attach the form!

Your message must not exceed a total of 10 MB . If your application exceeds this limit, we will not receive it.

As soon as your application has been processed, you will receive an e-mail with a QR code. It can be printed and presented on paper, or added to the TousAntiCovid smartphone application to prove your vaccination status.

Information on the procedure to follow is detailed on the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs website .

Vaccines accepted by France:

The vaccines accepted by France are those recognised by the European Medicines Agency (EMA): Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca/Vaxzevria/Covishield and Johnson & Johnson.

At this stage, the French authorities also accept the following vaccine combinations: AstraZeneca/Pfizer Comirnaty and AstraZeneca/Moderna.

Proof of vaccination is only valid for the completion of a full vaccination schedule, i.e.: - one week after second injection for double-injection vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca/Vaxzevria/Covishield); - four weeks after injection for single-injection vaccines (Johnson & Johnson); - one week after injection for vaccines in people with a history of Covid (only one injection is required).

Further info on health-related border controls depending on origin: FAQ from the French Ministry of the Interior

Consult the websites of the prefectures or local authorities for more details.

Also visit the website of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs .

What are the preventative actions to take to limit the spread of the virus?

There are simple actions to protect your health and the health of those around you:

• Wash your hands very regularly;
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow;
• Use disposable tissues and throw them away;
• Greet others without shaking hands and avoid hugs;
• Wear a mask if you feel ill;
• Wear a mask in enclosed public places, on public transport, in taxis and rideshares, in shops, and in any other places deemed necessary by the prefects of each department depending on the local health situation.

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To the extent any recommendations or statements of opinion or fact made in a story may constitute financial advice, they constitute general information and not personal financial advice in any form. As such, any recommendations or statements do not take into account the financial circumstances, investment objectives, tax implications, or any specific requirements of readers.

Readers of our stories should not act on any recommendation without first taking appropriate steps to verify the information in the stories consulting their independent financial adviser in order to ascertain whether the recommendation (if any) is appropriate, having regard to their investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs. Providing access to our stories should not be construed as investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any security or product, or to engage in or refrain from engaging in any transaction by Forbes Advisor Australia. In comparing various financial products and services, we are unable to compare every provider in the market so our rankings do not constitute a comprehensive review of a particular sector. While we do go to great lengths to ensure our ranking criteria matches the concerns of consumers, we cannot guarantee that every relevant feature of a financial product will be reviewed. We make every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information. However, Forbes Advisor Australia cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of this website. Forbes Advisor Australia accepts no responsibility to update any person regarding any inaccuracy, omission or change in information in our stories or any other information made available to a person, nor any obligation to furnish the person with any further information.

Travel Insurance For Vietnam: Everything You Need To Know

Updated: Apr 26, 2024, 11:14am

Table of Contents

Do australians need travel insurance for vietnam, what does travel insurance for vietnam cover, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Vietnam is an increasingly popular travel destination for Australians, with the country even hoping to encourage more Aussies to visit by potentially waiving visa requirements in due time.

The Southeast Asian country is set to be high on the list for Aussies going overseas in 2024. The number of Australian tourists in Vietnam now exceeds pre-pandemic levels: more than 317,000 Australians visited Vietnam in 2019 , while there were 390,000 Aussie visitors in 2023.

Plus, as more and more flights become available, such as low-cost carrier Vietjet Air launching a direct service between Hanoi and Melbourne earlier this year, getting to Vietnam is becoming easier for Australians.

If the direct flights, fascinating history, vast scenery and delicious food aren’t enough to convince Australian travellers, the cost may be. Vietnam is considered one of the cheapest travel destinations in the world for Australian tourists due to our strong conversion rate against the Vietnamese Dong and the nation’s low cost of living in comparison to our own.

And while cheap thrills may be what you’re after on your vacation, it’s important not to skimp on the necessities that may cost that little bit extra—such as travel insurance. This guide outlines what you need to know regarding travel insurance in Vietnam.

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Investing in travel insurance is a good idea for any overseas trip. Travel insurance policies can help protect you from having to dive deep into your pockets, with many offering unlimited medical treatment while abroad and cancellation cover for your trip should the unexpected occur.

Travel insurance is not just handy for medical purposes or travel changes, either. Your personal items can be covered, should any baggage go missing or an important item be stolen—which, unfortunately, often occurs in Vietnam.

Smarttraveller warns Australians to be alert at all times in Vietnam, considering petty theft–including bag slashing–is common in tourist areas and crowded places, especially during holiday times. Snatch-and-grab theft by thieves on motorcycles is also common, the website states.

Like most international travel insurance policies, you will be able to find basic coverage for your trip to Vietnam, or choose to opt for a more comprehensive, albeit more expensive, policy.

While a basic policy will often cover medical expenses and lost luggage,a comprehensive policy includes a lot more. Most basic policies also likely won’t offer compensation for travel delays, stolen cash, accidental death and more.

Additionally, if you are going on a trip to multiple countries within the year, it may be worth opting for an ‘annual multi trip’ insurance instead—making sure that there are no exclusions to the regions you are wishing to visit.

Visa Requirements For Australians Travelling to Vietnam

You’ll still be allowed to travel to Vietnam if you don’t invest in travel insurance, but you do so at your own risk—and, as stated, it is highly advised to have a travel insurance policy for any overseas trip.

However, what you cannot do is enter Vietnam as an Australian tourist without a tourist visa. While Vietnam will grant Australian citizens visas on arrival, applying for one online is much easier.

A tourist visa costs under $100 AUD; however the exact price depends on your length of stay.

The Vietnamese government may consider waiving visas for Australian citizens, especially since many other SEA countries have done so such as Indonesia and Thailand .

However, at the time of writing, Forbes Advisor Australia has confirmed that Australian citizens must still obtain a visa to visit Vietnam for tourism purposes.

The exact inclusions of your travel insurance will be dependent on your personal policy and the provider.

However, generally speaking, you can expect a travel insurance policy for Vietnam to offer some level of cover for:

• Medical expenses;
• Lost, damaged or stolen luggage;
• Travel cancellations or delays ;
• Personal liability;
• Credit card fraud;
• Covid-19 expenses;

If you are partaking in certain sports and activities, you will need to make sure that you choose a policy that covers them. You’ll also need to make sure that your policy covers any pre-existing medical conditions as well.

Plus, if you are travelling with valuables, you may wish to opt for a policy that lets you increase the protection cover on your items.

Ultimately, you need to consider what your trip consists of, what you will be taking with you, and your physical health to establish what policies would be appropriate for you.

From there, you can compare quotes of different policies and providers to ensure you have the optimal—yet affordable—cover for your trip to Vietnam.

Does Travel Insurance Cover The Ha-Giang Loop?

Considered one of the most scenic motorcycle routes in the world, the Ha-Giang Loop is a popular tourist activity in Vietnam for adventurous travellers. If the Ha-Giang Loop is one of your goals, you’ll need to make sure you have travel insurance that covers motorcycling.

Occasionally a policy may include this as one of their included ‘sports and activities’, but it is more often the case that you will need to purchase an additional ‘adventure pack’ that is either specific to, or includes, motorsports.

Even so, when purchasing an additional pack to cover motorbikes, you need to be cautious of the conditions. For example, some policies will only cover motorcycle riding if the bike you are riding has an engine under a certain size.

Often, coverage will cease and claims won’t be accepted if you haven’t been wearing the correct safety equipment such as boots and a helmet, or have been under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

What Does Travel Insurance Exclude?

Your travel insurance policy may exclude some activities that you wish to partake in, unless you can opt-in to purchase an additional adventure pack as explained above in regards to motorbike riding.

Just like with the inclusions of a policy, the exclusions depend on what type of policy you choose, and what provider you go with.

Commonly, however, you won’t be covered for instances where you:

• Break the law;
• Are under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
• Partake in an excluded activity;
• Receive medical treatment for a pre-existing condition that was not disclosed;
• Travel to a ‘Do Not Travel’ destination as outlined by Smarttraveller.

As always, it is essential to read the product disclosure statement (PDS) of your travel insurance policy carefully to understand what you will and won’t be covered for while overseas.

Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam?

Yes, as of April 2024, Australian tourists still need a visa to travel to Vietnam. This visa can be obtained on arrival, or purchased online prior to travel. The visa takes approximately three days to process online, and the cost depends on how long you intend to stay in the country.

Does international travel insurance cover Covid-19?

Many comprehensive travel insurance policies now cover Covid-19, including medical conditions related to Covid-19 or trip cancellations due to a Covid-19 diagnosis. However, it is not guaranteed that all policies will. It’s important to check your policy’s PDS carefully to understand what it will and will not cover in regards to Covid-19 for both you and your travelling companions.

Related: Travel Insurance And Covid: Are You Covered?

How much does travel insurance cost for Vietnam?

The cost of your travel insurance for a trip to Vietnam will depend on your age, your health, the activities you wish to partake in, and the length of your stay.

For example, for a 34 year old with no pre-existing medical conditions travelling to Vietnam for two weeks, a policy from some of our top choices for comprehensive travel insurance would cost around $130 (based on quotes from Cover-More , 1Cover , and Fast Cover ).

The prices of these quotes would change depending on a chosen excess, cancellation cover, and any additional coverage options you may choose to purchase such as adventure packs or cruise cover.

Related: How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?

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Sophie Venz is an experienced editor and features reporter, and has previously worked in the small business and start-up reporting space. Previously the Associate Editor of SmartCompany, Sophie has worked closely with finance experts and columnists around Australia and internationally.

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5 facts about presidential travel abroad

American presidents and other world leaders frequently travel internationally, most commonly for conferences and bilateral meetings. This face-to-face diplomacy can offer insights into political priorities, partnerships and tensions, as well as key international issues.

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted international travel in 2020 and 2021, but diplomatic travel picked up significantly in 2022. Here are five facts about presidential travel abroad:

Pew Research Center conducted this analysis to examine the international travel history of recent U.S. presidents and other heads of government through Jan. 20, 2023.

Dates and destinations of U.S. presidential travel prior to 2021 are from the U.S. Department of State’s Office of the Historian, which has recorded international presidential travel since 1901. Travel data for 2021 and 2022 was compiled from White House press briefings. Information on visits to Ukraine by other world leaders were independently verified through official government websites.

Only trips where the head of government met face-to-face with another head of government are included. For example, Biden’s trip to the UK for Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral is excluded as Biden did not hold any diplomatic meetings with the British prime minister or other world leaders. Visiting leaders were only counted if they were the head of government at the time of their visit. Depending on the country’s political system, “head of government” could mean president or prime minister, but not both. Heads of state, monarchs and interim leaders are excluded from the visiting leaders count.

U.S. President Joe Biden has traveled internationally less frequently than his last two predecessors did. Biden traveled to 17 places outside the United States in his first two years in office, visiting some more than once. He made six international trips in 2021, all of them to Europe. In 2022, he made 12 trips, including to Europe, the Asia-Pacific region and the Middle East. And in early 2023, Biden traveled to Mexico for the North American Leaders’ Summit.

All told, Biden’s international visit count trails those of former Presidents Donald Trump, who made 23 international trips to 20 places during his first two years in office, and Barack Obama, who made 32 trips to 24 places in the first two years of his presidency.

Biden’s first presidential trip abroad was to the United Kingdom, while Trump’s was to Saudi Arabia and Obama’s was to Canada. A president’s first trip is often used to signal the importance of a strategic alliance. On his trip to the UK in June 2021, Biden reaffirmed the U.S.-UK partnership and committed to close cooperation throughout his presidency. Typically, U.S. presidents visit a close ally on their inaugural trip: Canada was the first international destination for both Obama and Bill Clinton, while Mexico was the first destination for George W. Bush.

U.S. presidents have visited the UK the most in the past decade – a total of eight times. American presidents have worked closely with their British counterparts over the past decade, cooperating on issues from defense and counterterrorism to climate policy . Travel to the UK has largely centered around conferences and summits, but in 2019, Trump made a ceremonial state visit to the UK .  

In the past decade of presidential travel, Belgium (home to NATO headquarters ), France, Germany and Japan are the second-most visited destinations, at six times each.

So far, Biden has made the most trips to the UK and Belgium – two each. (Biden’s additional visit to the UK to attend the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II is not included in this count, since he did not hold any diplomatic appointments.) Just as these two European allies stand out in Biden’s presidential travel thus far, France stands out in Trump’s administration and Germany stands out in Obama’s – they visited those respective countries four times while in office.

Biden is among 38 heads of government who have visited Ukraine since the beginning of the war there. Biden traveled to Kyiv as part of a surprise trip in February, days before the first anniversary of Russia’s invasion .

While many heads of government visiting Ukraine have come from neighboring countries or countries in Europe (such as Poland’s prime minister, who has visited five times since the beginning of the war) that is not always the case. For example, Guatemala’s President Alejandro Giammattei and Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embaló traveled to Ukraine in July 2022 and October 2022, respectively.

Biden hosted 28 heads of government at the White House as of the end of 2022. Foreign leaders come to the U.S. for events including conferences, summits and bilateral meetings. Among those to visit the White House in 2021 and 2022 were then-Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson of Sweden, who met with Biden to submit her country’s application for NATO membership ; Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who traveled to the White House on his first known wartime trip abroad ; and French President Emmanuel Macron, whose trip marked the first state visit of Biden’s presidency . In fact, the president of France has been the first leader to make a state visit to the U.S. for the past three presidential terms, with Macron visiting Trump in April 2018 and his predecessor, François Hollande, visiting Obama in February 2014. In April 2023, Biden hosted the second state visit of his administration , meeting with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol.

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Sarah Austin is a research assistant focusing on global attitudes research at Pew Research Center

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International tourist figures still millions below pre-COVID levels as slow recovery continues

For two years, Marcela Ribeiro worked three jobs to save for her dream holiday to Australia.

Like millions of people across the globe, the 35-year-old from Brazil had long wanted to explore the country's world-famous destinations, specifically the Great Barrier Reef, World Heritage-listed rainforest and sandy beaches. 

"I worked really, really hard, many jobs, to get here," Ms Ribeiro said.  

"The flights were very expensive, so I have to watch everything I spend. I can't afford to eat out in the restaurants every day." 

It's been a similar story for William Grbava from Canada and Amelia Mondido from the Philippines, who last week arrived in Australia for a holiday. 

"It's expensive here, much more than we were expecting. We have only been able to factor in a short stop in Sydney," Mr Grbava said. 

"We just had a beer and a pizza in Circular Quay for $50.

 "What I really wanted to do was drive up the coast to Brisbane, through Byron Bay and those beautiful towns. That's what I did when I was younger. But with the cost of fuel and car rental, it wasn't possible." 

Industry yet to recover to pre-COVID levels 

It's been more than four years since Australia's borders suddenly closed to the rest of the world and became one of the most isolated destinations on the globe. 

COVID-19 wreaked havoc across the country's economy, but nowhere was the pain as instant or more devastating as in the tourism industry. 

In 2019, 8.7 million tourists visited Australia from overseas in an industry that was worth $166 billion. 

New figures from Tourism Research Australia show there were only 6.6 million international visitors last year, a deficit of more than 2 million compared to 2019 levels.  

Victoria experienced the largest loss in international visits at 33 per cent, followed by Queensland at 24 per cent and New South Wales at 22 per cent. 

Nationally, Chinese visitor numbers — which made up the bulk of visitors to Australia pre-pandemic — slumped to 507,000 last year, down from 1.3 million in 2019. 

Figures for the month of February show more than 850,000 people visited Australia, an increase of 257,000 for the same time in 2023, but 7.5 per cent less than pre-COVID levels. 

Gui Lohmann from Griffith University's Institute for Tourism said there were a number of reasons for the slow return of international visitors. 

"The airfares are significantly high and we are under an inflationary situation with labour and food costs," Professor Lohmann said. 

"It could be challenging for Australia to reach above 8 million international visitors in the scenario we are in at the moment." 

Professor Lohmann said cost-of-living pressures were also at play in the return of international tourists, as was a "reset" in European thinking.  

"Many Europeans believe a long-haul trip is quite damaging to the environment and they're also flying less generally," he said. 

"Their domestic airline routes no longer exist [and] have been replaced by train trips." 

He said China's ongoing economic problems, the war in Ukraine and United States' election were also having an impact.  

"It's a much more complicated world we are facing after the pandemic," he said. 

A long road to recovery 

Oxford Economics has forecast it could take until 2025-26 before Australian tourism returned to pre-pandemic levels. 

Tourism Australia, a government agency that promotes holidays, said the strongest markets since borders reopened had been New Zealand, the United States and the United Kingdom. 

"We always knew that the recovery of international travel to Australia would take time, and we have continued to see the steady return of international visitors to our shores," a spokeswoman said. 

Maneka Jayasinghe, a tourism expert at Charles Darwin University, said affordability was a key factor in attracting visitors Down Under.  

She said the state and federal governments should consider subsidising travel to Australia. 

"Measures to reduce costs, such as discounted hotel prices, tourism package deals and food vouchers could be of importance to encourage visitors to Australia," Dr Jayasinghe said. 

"Tourism operators were badly hit during COVID so may not be in a financially viable position to provide further perks to visitors, especially the small-scale operators in smaller states and territories and those operating in remote areas." 

She said re-establishing links with traditional tourism markets, including Japan, was also a potential solution. 

"Countries with a rapidly growing middle class, such as India, could have high potential to grow. Some of the south-east Asian countries, such as Vietnam and Indonesia, could also be attractive due to their proximity to Australia." 

Dutch tourists Tim Erentsen and Laleh Maleki estimated it would cost them around $16,000 for their three-week holiday in Australia, where they are visiting Sydney, the Whitsundays and Cairns. 

"It has been expensive, especially the flights," Mr Erentsen said. 

Ms Maleki said the couple had travelled extensively throughout Europe and the US and the cost of hotels and food in Australia was comparable. 

"We thought if we were coming all this way and spending the money to get here, we should stay a bit longer, which is adding to the cost," Ms Maleki said. 

But despite that extra cost, she said the trip had been worth it. 

"We love the nature, it feels very safe here. The food is so good and the people are very friendly." 

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The requirement to test for Covid before flying to the United States is hated by many travelers and the U.S. travel industry. But the government shows no sign of getting rid of it.

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By Heather Murphy

• Published May 19, 2022 Updated June 10, 2022

[Update: The United States will lift the virus testing mandate for international air travelers on June 12. Read more here .]

As countries, including Canada and Britain , have lifted their Covid testing requirements for vaccinated visitors in recent months, some Americans are irate that they still have to show a negative test to board a flight back to the United States.

Jason Miller, a 37-year-old software engineer who lives in Texas, is so frustrated with the rule that he recently sent letters to the White House and several lawmakers and began encouraging others to do the same. “I support the C.D.C., still wear a N95 mask when in crowds and when I travel,” he said. But, he no longer feels that the rule provides value, in large part because “the testing has not stopped variants from entering the country.”

Other travelers have posted similar comments on social media, and a good portion of the travel industry in the United States has made clear it feels the same way.

But they have gotten little satisfaction from the Biden administration and public health officials.

On May 6, Jen Psaki, then the White House press secretary, said she was “not aware of a timeline” for ending the testing requirement and that the administration would base its decision on a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendation. As to what, specifically, the C.D.C. is using to determine whether testing is still necessary, an agency spokeswoman offered the vague explanation that it “is looking at different indicators” and “evaluating all guidance and orders based on the latest science and state of the pandemic.”

The obligatory test has not just created logistical hassles, it has fundamentally shifted the experience of traveling internationally, travelers say.

“It was always in the forefront of my mind,” said Danielle Bradbury, 42, who recently spent 12 days in Israel for her job developing medical devices while her husband cared for their two children back in Boston. “Every time I left the hotel, I asked myself, how much risk of not being able to get home am I putting myself in?”

Why was testing started in the first place?

In January 2021 , when the C.D.C. first instituted the rule that all U.S.-bound travelers 2 years and older had to show a negative test or proof of recovery before boarding a flight, the United States joined a sea of countries experimenting with different ways to slow the virus’s spread across borders. A statement from the State Department announcing the requirement played up the difficulty in getting a test abroad, suggesting that the rule also aimed to discourage Americans from traveling internationally. At that point fewer than 10 percent of Americans were vaccinated and case counts were rising, hitting a record of more than 300,000 new cases on Jan. 8.

Testing was not the first travel limitation the United States had deployed. In the winter of 2020, President Trump banned visitors from China, much of Europe , Brazil and Iran. When President Biden took office he layered the testing requirement on top of the travel bans. (He also expanded the ban to India .)

In late 2021, the United States pivoted away from country-specific bans and doubled down on testing, shortening the window from within three days of travel to one day, even for vaccinated Americans. By then it had become clear that vaccinated people could also spread the coronavirus . (Most unvaccinated visitors from abroad were prohibited from entering the country, even with testing.)

How effective has the policy been?

It depends how you define success, said Jeremy Goldhaber-Fiebert, a professor of health policy at Stanford University. If success was reducing the number of infected people who flew to the United States, he said, the testing requirement achieved that.

“It certainly prevented people who tested positive from getting on planes and it almost certainly prevented some amount of transmission on aircraft and in airports,” he said.

The exact number of infected people who were prevented from boarding planes is unknown, however, because no one tracks whether a passenger cancels a flight because of Covid. Most of the evidence is anecdotal; lots of people have stories about testing positive before flying home.

If success means keeping new variants out of the country, then it failed, said Dr. William Morice , the chair of lab medicine and pathology at the Mayo Clinic.

“The reality is that none of these measures have prevented the rapid global spread of any variant of concern,” he said.

But if success was not preventing the arrival of new variants, but instead delaying their arrival so that hospitals and authorities could be more prepared, then it may have worked. Mark Jit , a professor of vaccine epidemiology at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, who has studied the effectiveness of travel requirements, said that this is what testing does well.

“Testing can prevent the peak from being reached so quickly,” he said.

Still, once a variant is already widespread in a country, he found, a travel test has little effect.

Why are many countries getting rid of testing requirements now?

Explanations from authorities include readiness to enter a new phase of the pandemic, high vaccination rates and a determination that new variants are manageable.

“The current variant is making people less ill and the number of people being admitted to intensive care is limited,” the Netherlands government said in a typical statement in March, as it ended travel testing, among other Covid-related recommendations.

What’s the argument for getting rid of the U.S. requirement?

The primary argument is that it’s not doing enough good to rationalize the hassle.

Dr. Tom Frieden, who was the C.D.C. director during the Ebola outbreak of 2014, was among those who made this point. “Between super-effective vaccinations that we have and Paxlovid, which is a super-effective treatment, Omicron is less deadly than flu most years and we don’t require people to test for flu before they get on a plane,” he said. “If a more dangerous variant emerges,” he noted, “that’s a very different situation.”

Others argue that it doesn’t make sense to inconvenience so many people for a system that’s full of holes. Antigen tests — one option for travelers to the United States — are notoriously unreliable in the early stage of infection, said Anne Wyllie, a microbiologist at the Yale School of Public Health. For this reason she called the requirement “hygiene theater.”

The testing requirement is not just annoying for travelers, it’s economically damaging, according to the U.S. Travel Association, a trade group. In a recent letter to Dr. Ashish K. Jha, the White House Covid coordinator, signed by more than 260 businesses, including airlines, cruise operators, casinos, tourism boards, Disney Parks and a zoo, the group said “the economic costs associated with maintaining the measure are significant.”

“Given the slow economic recovery of the business and international travel sectors, and in light of medical advancements and the improved public health metrics in the U.S., we encourage you to immediately remove the inbound testing requirement for vaccinated air travelers,” the group wrote.

A survey commissioned by the group found that 46 percent of international travelers would be more likely to visit the United States without the requirement. A similar survey by the Points Guy, a site that specializes in traveling with credit card points and miles, found that more than half of its participating readers would be more likely to travel abroad without the requirement.

What’s the argument for keeping the policy?

Meegan Zickus, who runs a Facebook group for people with weakened immune systems, said that testing has become more important since the mask requirement went away. Without a testing requirement, most travelers are not going to bother to test or stay home, even if they suspect that they are infected, she said.

“Judging by the past two years, the only way to protect others is some type of enforced testing,” she said, because “the moral compass points directly to self.”

Dr. Seema Yasmin , a public health doctor and the director of the Stanford Health Communication Initiative, echoed this point. “I would say that it can give a high level of reassurance when 75 percent of people are not wearing a mask and might even be coughing and sneezing loudly,” Dr. Yasmin said.

(Though airplane ventilation systems appear to significantly mitigate spread of the coronavirus, research suggests that people sitting within a few rows still pose a risk to one another.)

“Some testing is better than none,” said Nathaniel Hafer , a molecular biologist at the UMass Chan Medical School.

Many countries also use testing to incentivize vaccination by waiving the requirement for vaccinated people, said Meghan Benton , a research director at the Migration Policy Institute, which tracks travel requirements. The United States encourages vaccination in its own way by prohibiting most unvaccinated visitors from abroad from entering.

Could a lawsuit end testing the way it did the mask mandate?

Given that there are currently at least four pending lawsuits that challenge the international testing requirement, some wonder whether it might be struck down by a judge’s decision, as the requirement to wear a mask on airplanes and other forms of transport was in April.

Lawrence O. Gostin, a professor of global health law at Georgetown Law, does not think so. The C.D.C. can require testing from visitors entering the country from abroad because of the Public Health Service Act, which was explicitly created to prevent the introduction of dangerous infectious diseases in the United States, he said.

The rule, he said, “would be exceedingly difficult to successfully challenge in the courts, even for the most conservative judges.”

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An earlier version of this article misspelled the surname of the chair of lab medicine and pathology at the Mayo Clinic. It is Dr. William Morice, not Omrice.

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Heather Murphy is a reporter on the Travel desk. She welcomes tips, questions and complaints about traveling during the pandemic. More about Heather Murphy