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Entering the U.S.: What You Need to Know

Aug 18, 20222 min read

The Biden administration recently lifted its requirement that all air travelers entering the United States show proof of a negative COVID-19 test.

If you’re ready to the United States, here’s what you need to know before you travel.


Do I need to show proof of a negative Covid-19 test when entering the U.S.?


No, you do not need to present a negative test result before boarding a flight to the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lifted the Covid-19 testing requirement on June 12, 2022.


Do I need to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 to enter the U.S.?


Most foreign nationals entering the U.S. will need to be fully vaccinated and show proof of vaccination before boarding a U.S.-bound flight. Those applying for a green card will also need to show proof of full vaccination when attending the immigration medical exam.


Do I need to be fully vaccinated if I am an American citizen or lawful permanent resident?


If you’re a U.S. citizen or green card holder you don’t need to show proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test.


Who is exempt from the vaccination requirements?


The following groups do not need to show proof of vaccination:

  1. U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents

  2. Children under the age of 18

  3. Certain Covid-19 vaccine trial participants

  4. Those traveling for emergency or humanitarian reason

  5. Those traveling from countries with low vaccine availability

  6. Members of the military and their immediate families

  7. Airline and ship crew

  8. Diplomats and their families


Which vaccines are accepted?


Any vaccines approved by the CDC or those approved for emergency use by the World Health Organization (WHO) will be accepted.


Currently, these are:

  1. Pfizer-BioNTech

  2. Moderna

  3. Johnson & Johnson

  4. AstraZeneca

  5. Covaxin

  6. Covishield

  7. BIBP/Sinopharm

  8. Sinovac


What are acceptable forms of proof of vaccination?


International travelers should provide a paper or digital vaccine record to airlines before flying. The record should include their full name and date of birth, the vaccine type, and the dates when the vaccines were given.


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