A Country-By-Country Guide to Coronavirus Re-Openings

Yellow van in mountains

While the U.S. omicron surge has subsided, the evolving testing and vaccination requirements for international travel continue to make it confusing for Americans to figure out what’s required for entry into specific countries. The European Council, for example, recommended in late February that its member countries open more broadly to travelers from outside the European Union, but individual countries are setting specific dates for easing their restrictions, with Italy dropping its pre-travel test requirement for fully vaccinated travelers on March 1 and Iceland dropping all COVID-19 entry requirements for all travelers on Feb. 25. The coronavirus reopenings in many countries continued into late March.

These requirements also continue to change and evolve as countries around the world begin to move past the omicron surge while keeping an eye on the emerging BA.2 subvariant. The big news in early February was that Australia opened to tourists on Feb. 21 for the first time in two years. Vietnam also said it planned to reopen to tourists and did so on March 16.

The U.S. continues to require day-before testing for all arrivals by air. President Joe Biden announced that as of Dec. 6, 2021, all international airline passengers age 2 and older traveling to the U.S., even those who are fully vaccinated, need to present the result of a negative COVID-19 test taken within one day of boarding their flight. Travelers who can present documented proof of having recovered from COVID-19 within the past 90 days are exempt from the required test. For details, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.

Warnings from the CDC and U.S. Department of State continued into late March with 115 countries, including many popular Caribbean islands and European favorites, still given “Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19” warnings.

Related: Check out these 16 effective ways to save money while traveling!

 

IN THIS POST

North America

 

United States

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In response to the emergence of the omicron variant, President Biden announced that as of Dec. 6, 2021, all international arrivals by air to the United States, even American citizens who are fully vaccinated, need to present the result of a negative COVID-19 test taken within one day of boarding their flight. This was a change for fully vaccinated travelers, both U.S. citizens and international visitors, who had been given a three-day window since the U.S. reopened to fully vaccinated international travelers on Nov. 8, 2021; unvaccinated U.S. citizens had already been required to test within one day of travel. Travelers who can present documented proof of having recovered from COVID-19 within the past 90 days are exempt from the required test.

The White House announcement can be found here and complete details are on the CDC’s website.

All U.S. states are open and most proof-of-vaccination requirements that had been required for many indoor activities in New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston and other cities are being eased, so check local government websites for updates.

As of March 26, Hawaii has done away with additional restrictions for domestic travelers; it had required either proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of your flight to be uploaded to the Safe Travels portal to avoid a five-day quarantine upon arrival. International arrivals are still subject to the U.S. government’s vaccination and pre-travel testing rules.

President Biden signed an executive order soon after taking office in late January 2021 that mandates the wearing of masks on federal property and domestic public transportation, including planes, airports, buses, subways, trains and train stations. It has been extended through at least April 18.

The CDC has updated its domestic travel guidance for fully vaccinated travelers, but still strongly advises unvaccinated individuals to test before and after travel (with self-isolation after travel) within the United States. Check the CDC website for the latest updates.

Long-standing U.S. restrictions on visitors, including a ban on tourists driving into the country from Canada and Mexico, were lifted on Nov. 8, 2021, but only for fully vaccinated travelers (at least 14 days past their final dose). The vaccination requirement does not include children under age 18. As of Dec. 6, 2021, all travelers to the U.S. by air who are over the age of 2 are required to show results of a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test taken within one day of departure for the U.S.

Canada

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Americans are allowed to go to Canada but must be fully vaccinated and have a negative COVID-19 test result — until April 1, when pre-travel testing requirements will end. On March 1, Canada loosened its testing requirements for fully vaccinated visitors and now accepts a negative rapid antigen test (professionally administered or observed) taken within 24 hours of arrival. Travelers can also still present a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours of entry.

As of April 1, fully vaccinated travelers in Canada, while no longer required to present a pre-travel negative test result, will still need to fill out the electronic ArriveCan app or web portal and may be subject to random PCR testing upon arrival.

Unvaccinated children under 12 are allowed to enter Canada if accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult, but must submit their information electronically through ArriveCan (and test through March 31 unless under age 5).

In addition, as of Nov. 30, 2021, all passengers age 12 and older traveling domestically in Canada by air or by rail need to be fully vaccinated.

Fully vaccinated Americans (14 days past their final dose) and fully vaccinated residents of other countries who meet the vaccination requirements are able to visit Canada without the need to quarantine. All fully vaccinated travelers seeking to enter Canada by air or land must also provide COVID-19-related information electronically through ArriveCan (app or web portal), including proof of vaccination prior to departing for Canada, meet the pre-entry testing requirements, be asymptomatic upon arrival, and have a paper or digital copy of their vaccination documentation in English or French (or a certified translation, along with the original) ready to show a government official on request.

According to the ArriveCan website, travelers may be asked to take an arrival test (selection is random) and self-isolate at a suitable place (such as a home or hotel room) until receiving a negative arrival test result. Arrival testing could be on-site at the airport, offsite, or travelers may be given a self-swab test kit at the border to take home.

Details on the latest coronavirus reopenings can be found here.

Some provinces, including Ontario and Quebec, have required proof of vaccination for dining in restaurants, entering museums and other activities. Ontario’s requirement ended March 1, while Quebec’s ended March 12. Quebec does, however, require anyone seeking to buy alcohol or cannabis at a province-run store to be fully vaccinated.

Fully vaccinated Canadians are again able to enter the U.S. via a land crossing at the border as of Nov. 8, 2021, and like Americans returning to the United States from Canada via land borders, are not required to have a negative COVID-19 test result.

Note: U.S. entry testing requirements changed on Dec. 6, 2021, for U.S. citizens returning from Canada by air. All international arrivals in the U.S. by air, even American citizens who are fully vaccinated, will need to present the result of a negative COVID-19 test taken within one day of boarding their flight.

For more information and updates on coronavirus reopenings, visit the U.S. Embassy in Canada website.

The U.S. Department of State’s travel advisory for Canada is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Mexico

Church colorful flags
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Mexico has never required testing for entry and has lifted most coronavirus restrictions. There is a federal “stoplight” system that limits activities in some regions — but all states are considered “green” as of March 25.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Mexico, travelers entering Mexico by land from Belize, Guatemala or the United States may be denied admission if the purpose of their visit is considered nonessential. The embassy advises travelers to carry evidence of the essential nature of their visit and evidence of their resident status in Mexico, if applicable.

A recent increase in crime against tourists in Cancun and Riviera Maya has made the U.S. Consulate General in Merida issue a security alert for Americans traveling in the region.

The U.S.-Mexico land border reopened on Nov. 8, 2021, and fully vaccinated travelers are once again allowed to enter the U.S. from Mexico by land. Proof of vaccination is required, but a negative COVID-19 test is not required for a land-border crossing.

U.S. entry testing requirements changed on Dec. 6, 2021, for U.S. citizens and permanent residents returning from Mexico by air. All international arrivals in the U.S., even American citizens who are fully vaccinated, need to present the result of a negative COVID-19 test taken within one day of boarding their flight.

Many Mexican resorts are offering on-property rapid antigen and PCR tests for guests returning to the U.S.

The U.S. Department of State’s travel advisory for Mexico is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Puerto Rico

People walking on the street of Puerto Rico
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Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the U.S., is open to all international travelers.

As of March 10, all domestic travelers (U.S. citizens and residents), both vaccinated and unvaccinated, no longer need to provide a negative pre-travel test result to enter Puerto Rico. However, international visitors must be fully vaccinated and present a negative molecular COVID-19 test taken within one day of arrival — the same protocols as entry into the mainland U.S.

As of March 10, all lodging facilities in Puerto Rico are no longer required to see visitors’ vaccination records or negative test results (taken within 48 hours) at check-in, and establishments serving food or drinks no longer require proof of vaccination or a negative antigen or PCR test taken within 48 hours prior to arrival. All capacity restrictions have also ended and masks are no longer required in indoor public places, but are recommended when vaccination status cannot be guaranteed. Masks are required on all public transportation.

Attendees of concerts and shows at venues including the Coliseo de Puerto Rico, Puerto Rico Convention Center and the Coca-Cola Music Hall, among others, regardless of event size, are required to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result taken at least 72 hours prior.

For the latest updates on coronavirus reopenings, check here.

A note for travelers returning from Puerto Rico: A negative test is not required for entry into the mainland U.S. from Puerto Rico.

U.S. Virgin Islands

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The U.S. Virgin Islands, which includes St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix, has been open to tourism since Sept. 19, 2020. And as of March 7, all fully vaccinated domestic U.S. travelers no longer need to provide a pre-travel negative test to enter. Those who are partially vaccinated or unvaccinated must still provide a negative PCR or antigen test taken within five days of travel.

Every U.S. traveler 5 years of age or older, even those who are fully vaccinated, and every international traveler 2 years of age and older is now required to use the U.S. Virgin Islands Travel Screening Portal to be cleared for entry. This applies to those entering by air or sea as well as those transiting.

U.S. travelers who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated must produce the original test result as well as the travel certification from the portal upon arrival. Travelers age 5 and older may be denied boarding of flights to the U.S. Virgin Islands without travel certification from the portal.

International travelers (including travelers from the British Virgin Islands) must also submit a negative antigen or NAAT COVID-19 test result, but test requirements depend on vaccination and citizenship status and mode of travel, as well as age.

  • Travel by air: All non-U.S. citizens/non-U.S. immigrants must be fully vaccinated and provide proof of vaccination. (Travelers ages 2-17 are exempt from the vaccine requirement.) International travelers must also present a negative COVID-19 antigen or NAAT test result taken within one day of travel.
  • Travel by ferry: Tests must be taken within five days of travel. Non-U.S. citizens/non-U.S. immigrants traveling for nonessential reasons (e.g., tourism) must be fully vaccinated and provide proof of vaccination status. Travelers ages 2-17 are exempt from the vaccine requirement.

Details can be found here.

Masks are mandatory when going into businesses and attractions and when using public transportation. COVID-19 guidelines are in place for retail businesses and attractions, taxi vans, safari vehicles and limousine services.

A note for travelers returning from the U.S. Virgin Islands: A negative test is not required for entry into the mainland U.S. from the U.S. Virgin Islands.

 

Caribbean

 

caribbean beach
Photo by Ishan @seefromthesky on Unsplash

Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda reopened to tourists on June 4, 2020, and the government’s latest travel advisory requires all arriving passengers age 18 and older to be fully vaccinated, and unvaccinated passengers between the ages of 5 and 18 to present a negative result of an approved COVID-19 PCR or rapid antigen test taken within four days of their flight. Fully vaccinated passengers are no longer required to present a negative pre-travel test, but if they show symptoms of possible infection upon arrival they may be required to submit to a PCR test (at their own cost).

In addition to presenting a negative PCR or rapid antigen test, unvaccinated minors who are not staying at a certified resort/accommodation (such as an Airbnb) are required to quarantine at home for 10-14 days. Children below the age of 5 are not required to test.

Vaccination requirements mean passengers must present verifiable documentation of full vaccination using World Health Organization- or Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment-approved two-dose COVID-19 vaccine or a single-dose vaccine (completed 14 days or more before entry). Check for updates here.

Passengers arriving by sea (private yachts or ferries) are subject to quarantine according to guidelines issued by Port Health.

All arriving passengers must complete a health declaration and stay at a certified property while being able to enjoy certified activities.

Travelers will also have to adhere to social distancing guidelines, including face masks in public. Beaches and excursions are open (with limitations on certain activities); restaurants are open for dine-in for travelers who have been vaccinated; non-hotel bars reopened as of Nov. 15, 2021.

Per the U.S. Embassy for the Eastern Caribbean, the U.S. State Department’s advisory for Antigua is Level 4: Do Not Travel. The CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Anguilla

Anguilla began welcoming preapproved travelers as of May 25, 2021, after a monthslong suspension of all entries. However, as of July 1, 2021, only fully vaccinated travelers (with a final dose at least three weeks before arrival) are allowed and they must follow step-by-step instructions involving authorization, hotel and transfer reservations and testing (for which there is now a $50-per-person fee as part of the application process). Pregnant women and children under age 18 are exempt from the vaccination requirement.

The government recommends starting the application process at least seven days before your intended travel date. All visitors seeking a short-term stay or a work-from-Anguilla arrangement need to seek a travel authorization (each individual traveler, including children, must get an authorization), provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken three days before arrival or a negative antigen test from an accredited lab taken no more than two days prior to arrival and then undergo a temperature check and take another test upon arrival. If staying eight days or more, travelers may need to test again on day four.

Guests must stay in place at their accommodations until receiving their on-island test result, typically within 24 hours. Travel insurance is not required but is recommended. See FAQ here. In addition, travelers entering/transferring via Dutch St. Maarten must complete St. Maarten’s health screening application form and prearrange boat or air travel to Anguilla.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Anguilla is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19. Visit the U.S. Embassy in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, which oversees Anguilla, for additional information on coronavirus reopenings .

Aruba

As of March 19, Aruba has relaxed its COVID-19 testing requirements.

Aruba reopened to tourists in the summer of 2020 and American visitors were welcomed back on July 10, 2020. As of Nov. 1, 2020, all U.S. travelers to Aruba must complete an online embarkation/disembarkation card process within 72 to four hours prior to travel, which is still required as part of the country’s digitized customs and immigration process, but pre-travel COVID-19 testing is no longer required. The questionnaire asks for identifying information, including passport details. The form also includes a section where visitors can input their travel plans and answer health questions. Travelers must also download the Aruba Health app as part of the ED card process.

Details can be found here.

All guests must also purchase visitors insurance from the nation of Aruba to cover up to $75,000 in health insurance. The cost is $15 for travelers age 15 and older and free for those 14 and under.

Visitors are required to carry a mask with them and wear one in the airport and in businesses that require them. As of Feb. 17, all other safety measures have been eased.

Visit the U.S. Consulate General in Curacao, which oversees Aruba, for additional information. The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Aruba is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the island is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

For the latest updates related to travel, check Visit Aruba’s entry requirements page.

Bahamas

The Bahamas is open to tourism and Americans are allowed to visit, but pre-travel testing requirements and post-arrival testing are required for all visitors, regardless of vaccination status. As of Dec. 27, 2021, all fully vaccinated visitors over the age of 2 must present results of a negative COVID-19 test, either rapid antigen or PCR, taken within three days (72 hours) of arrival, while a PCR test taken within three days (72 hours) of arrival is required for unvaccinated travelers 12 and older. Unvaccinated children ages 2-11 can show results of either a negative PCR or rapid antigen test.

Negative test results must be uploaded when applying for a Bahamas Travel Health Visa required for entry. While travelers under 17 years old do not need to complete an individual Travel Health Visa application, they should add a profile within the account of their accompanying parent or guardian. The Travel Health Visa, with costs determined by the length of stay, also includes health insurance while in the Bahamas.

While in the Bahamas, all visitors are required to wear a mask in public spaces (under penalty of a $250 fine or one-month imprisonment). To travel between islands, vaccinated travelers must obtain a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test (if fully vaccinated) or PCR test (if unvaccinated) within three days (72 hours) of their travel date from New Providence (Nassau and Paradise Island), Grand Bahama, Bimini, Exuma, Abaco and North and South Eleuthera (including Harbour Island) and add it to their Travel Health Visa profile.

As of Nov. 13, 2021, nightly curfews have been lifted.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for the Bahamas is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution and the CDC’s advisory for the island is Level 2: Moderate Level of COVID-19.

Barbados

sea turtle
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Barbados, which reopened to international travelers on July 12, 2020, requires visitors to download the BIMSafe app designed to expedite the entry and quarantine process. There’s also one main caveat for unvaccinated travelers: They must not only test but also quarantine in their hotel rooms at approved accommodations for at least five days.

Barbados’ mandatory protocols, which were updated as of Feb. 26, require all arriving visitors to provide the results of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within three days of arrival or a negative rapid antigen or rapid PCR test taken within one day of arrival, with testing and quarantine upon arrival for some. Fully vaccinated travelers are no longer required to quarantine and are not subject to mandatory testing at the airport upon arrival, although they may be selected for a random rapid antigen test.

All fully vaccinated travelers must:

  • Have proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test from an accredited laboratory taken within 72 hours prior to arrival or a negative rapid PCR or rapid antigen test taken within one day of arrival, which is required for travelers age 5 and older from countries of all risk levels.
  • Within 24 hours before traveling to Barbados, complete an online immigration and customs form (and download the BIMSafe app) with personal health questions relating to COVID-19 symptoms and upload their negative COVID-19 test results.
  • Provide official proof of vaccination.
  • Possibly be asked to take a COVID-19 rapid PCR test upon arrival in Barbados.
  • Once their vaccination certificate and pre-travel COVID-19 PCR test are approved upon arrival, they are free to explore Barbados.

All unvaccinated travelers must:

  • Have proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test from an accredited laboratory taken within 72 hours prior to arrival or a negative rapid antigen or rapid PCR test taken within one day of arrival, which is required for travelers age 5 and older from countries of all risk levels.
  • Within 24 hours before traveling to Barbados, complete an online immigration and customs form (and download the BIMSafe app) with personal health questions relating to COVID-19 symptoms and upload their negative COVID-19 test results.
  • Wear a monitoring bracelet and board transport to their preapproved and prebooked accommodations (a minimum of five nights is required) and undergo an in-room quarantine (no beach or leaving the property) for three days with a second PCR test on day four to receive a negative result (available within another 36-48 hours).

Children under age 18 traveling with fully vaccinated parents or guardians will be able to adhere to the same guidelines as their parents or guardians. Complete details on protocols can be found here.

Social distancing and wearing face masks are mandatory in public spaces. Beach hours are now 5 a.m.-7 p.m. for swimming or exercise.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Barbados, the U.S. State Department’s advisory for Barbados is Level 4: Do Not Travel. The CDC’s advisory for the island is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19. More updates on Barbados’ response to coronavirus and any updates to its protocols can be found on the Barbados government website.

Bermuda

Bermuda, which reopened to travelers on July 1, 2020, requires pre-travel authorization (with a fee reduced from $75 to $40 as of March 7) and testing. While requirements for fully vaccinated visitors with proof of vaccination have been eased, unvaccinated travelers age 18 and older are not currently allowed to enter Bermuda. Unvaccinated minor children may enter with fully vaccinated parents or guardians.

Bermuda’s tourism officials have provided the following guidelines and requirements for fully vaccinated tourists.

Predeparture:

  • Apply for a Bermuda Travel Authorisation.
  • Present a certified negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within four days of departure or a negative antigen test taken within two days of arrival (as of March 7), along with proof of vaccination.
  • Provide proof of health insurance.
  • Wear face masks and practice physical distancing at the departure airport.
  • Complete a traveler screening form and arrival card.

On the plane:

  • Wear a face mask.
  • Practice social distancing to the extent possible.

As of March 7, no additional on-island testing is required.

The Bermuda government launched the WeHealth Bermuda app, which provides anonymous COVID-19 exposure notifications and is encouraged for all visitors to download.

According to the U.S. Consulate General in Bermuda, the U.S. State Department advisory for Bermuda is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the island is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

More information on coronavirus in Bermuda can be found here.

Bonaire

Americans are welcome to visit Bonaire. Testing requirements for those age 12 and older depend on whether they are boosted, fully vaccinated or unvaccinated. Travelers who received their second vaccine dose within 270 days or who have been boosted do not need to test prior to travel. Fully vaccinated travelers whose last dose was more than 270 days prior and travelers who are unvaccinated must have proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of departure or a negative antigen test taken within 24 hours before departure.

All travelers (even children) must complete a health declaration form for the Public Health Department within 24 to 12 hours before their departure for Bonaire.

For the latest details, check here.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Bonaire is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the island is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19. For more information, visit the website of the U.S. Consulate General in Curacao, which oversees Bonaire, and for health and safety protocols in Bonaire, check here.

British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands officially reopened to tourism on Dec. 1, 2020. Americans can visit, but all travelers, especially those who are not yet vaccinated and must receive authorization to visit, need to follow strict protocols. As of Oct. 1, 2021, fully vaccinated travelers who can provide valid proof of vaccination no longer need to register for authorization on the BVI Gateway portal.

Requirements for entry now include:

  • Providing a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within five days of departure for the British Virgin Islands and proof of vaccination if fully or partially vaccinated. Fully vaccinated travelers can present an approved negative rapid antigen test or a PCR test.
  • Registering (if unvaccinated or partially vaccinated) on the BVI Gateway five days (and no later than 24 hours) before travel, and completing the application no later than 24 hours before travel (the cost is $175 for partially vaccinated or unvaccinated travelers).
  • Obtaining COVID-19 health insurance valid in the British Virgin Islands.
  • All travelers are required to take a second test upon arrival in the British Virgin Islands (and to preregister at a charge of $50 for a rapid antigen test for those who are fully vaccinated and didn’t pay the portal fee). Vaccinated travelers can skip the entry test if their pre-travel test was taken within 48 hours of arrival. Unvaccinated travelers must take a PCR test upon arrival as part of their application process/fee.
  • Unvaccinated and partially vaccinated travelers must also quarantine at their resort for seven days or four days, respectively, while using an activated tracking system on their phones and wearing a wristband monitoring device.
  • Unvaccinated and partially vaccinated travelers must take a third PCR test on day seven or day four, respectively, and await the results (typically given within 24 hours) before being able to move freely around the islands.

Complete details on travel requirements and restrictions can be found here.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for the British Virgin Islands is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19. Check the U.S. Embassy in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, which oversees the BVI, for additional information.

Cayman Islands

beach deck cayman islands
Photo by Marc Babin on Unsplash

The Cayman Islands only recently began welcoming fully vaccinated tourists. The country entered Phase 5 of its reopening on Jan. 20, and now allows fully vaccinated U.S. travelers, although no unvaccinated tourists over the age of 12 can enter at this time. Cruise tourism resumed on March 21.

Those with a securely verified vaccination record that is electronic with a QR code, such as a Smart Health Card or the New York State Excelsior Pass, and those with a nondigital record (such as a CDC card) are now no longer required to quarantine as long as they have spent the past 14 days in a country with vaccination rates that are 60% or higher for the first dose of the vaccine (the U.S., Canada and the United Kingdom all qualify). Anyone traveling from a country with a vaccination rate lower than 60% for the first dose of the vaccine is required to quarantine for seven days while wearing a tracking device with a day seven PCR test required for exit. Details are here.

When traveling to the Cayman Islands with children, unvaccinated children under the age of 12 will assume the vaccination status of their adult travel companions. Unaccompanied, unvaccinated children under the age of 12 will be subject to the 60% rule for rate of vaccination of the country from which they are traveling. All children age 12 and over are required to be vaccinated to be exempt from quarantine.

All travelers must be approved for entry and those who are approved need to register with the TravelTime service before their trip. And all arriving passengers must present a negative pre-travel COVID-19 test; since Dec. 17, 2021, it needs to be a PCR or rapid antigen test taken within one day of departure for the Cayman Islands. Submitting to a rapid antigen test (also known as a lateral flow test) is no longer required post-arrival. Details on coronavirus reopenings are here.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for the Cayman Islands is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Cuba

A colorful strip of buildings in Havana, Cuba.
Photo by Spencer Everett on Unsplash

Cuba has begun welcoming international tourists back as of Nov. 15, 2021, with entry requirements of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival and proof of full vaccination. Tourists are not required to quarantine.

The U.S. State Department has a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory in place for Cuba and the CDC’s advisory is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19. Politics limits Americans’ travel to Cuba more than COVID-19. Long-standing travel restrictions were tightened by the U.S. government in late 2019, eliminating many of the reasons Americans were allowed to visit Cuba in recent years. For information on exemptions that allow Americans to travel to Cuba, visit the U.S. Embassy in Cuba’s COVID-19 page and “Traveling to Cuba” page.

There are a number of additional restrictions for U.S. travelers visiting Cuba that are not related to the pandemic, and which remain active.

Curacao

Curacao reopened to U.S. tourists in November 2020. All travelers are required to complete a digital immigration card within 48 hours of travel and carry a printed copy. As of March 10, no pre-travel testing is required, but passengers are still required to have travel/health insurance to cover care or quarantine costs. Children 6 and younger are exempt from the passenger locator card. Details are here.

Restaurants, retail shops, beaches, beach club bars and casinos are open. Social distancing measures are in place islandwide and face masks are required when distancing is not possible.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Curacao is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the island is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19. Visit the U.S. Consulate General in Curacao’s website for additional information.

Dominica

Dominica has been open to travelers since Aug. 3, 2020. All travelers arriving in the country are designated as coming from low-risk, medium-risk or high-risk countries (the United States is currently considered high risk) and travelers must follow these updated procedures, with quarantine no longer required for fully vaccinated travelers:

  • Submit a health questionnaire online at least 24 hours prior to arrival.
  • Upload vaccination certificate (if fully vaccinated).
  • Submit a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours prior to arrival or a negative rapid antigen test from a certified facility taken within 48 hours of arrival in Dominica.
  • Provide confirmation of the health questionnaire and negative PCR test results to the airline upon boarding.
  • Take a rapid antigen test upon arrival at the airport (if not fully vaccinated).
  • Unvaccinated travelers must also provide confirmation of a booking at a government-certified Safe in Nature property.
  • Begin your vacation (if fully vaccinated) or spend seven days (if not vaccinated) in a Managed Experience at a Safe in Nature-certified property, with a COVID-19 PCR test on day five and results returned within 48 hours.

Visitors must wear face masks at all times during the arrival process, up to and including departure from the airport, observe physical distancing guidelines and follow all instructions from local health care staff and officials.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Dominica is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

For more information, see the U.S. Embassy for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean’s website and Dominica’s travel advisory.

Dominican Republic

Tiki Beach
Photo by Justin Aikin on Unsplash

The Dominican Republic reopened July 1, 2020, and most hotels and resorts have reopened. U.S. travelers are welcome and there are no pre-travel COVID-19 testing requirements for visitors.

Travelers can expect temperature checks upon arrival as well as a quick, random breath test for a percentage of passengers (travelers who present a vaccination card showing the final dose was given at least three weeks prior to arrival or who present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of arrival are exempt from random testing). Passengers who present symptoms or whose test results are positive will be isolated and attended at authorized locations.

The Dominican Republic does have additional measures in place for travelers from certain countries. Check for updates here.

All travelers are also required to fill out and submit an electronic entry ticket (mandatory as of May 1, 2021, for both arrival into and departure from the Dominican Republic) to declare they have not felt any COVID-19-related symptoms in the last 72 hours and provide contact details for the next 30 days.

As of Feb. 16, COVID-19 measures have been suspended and the use of masks and social distancing measures in public spaces is the responsibility of the individual.

For the latest updates on coronavirus reopenings in the Dominican Republic, check here.

According to the U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic, the U.S. State Department’s advisory for the island is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Grenada

Grenada began reopening to foreign tourists on Aug. 1, 2020, with strict protocols, including quarantine, in place for all visitors. But as of Jan. 19, Grenada removed the 48-hour quarantine requirement for fully vaccinated travelers, who are now the only visitors allowed to enter.

Every fully vaccinated visitor age 12 and older is required to fill out a health declaration form, present a physical copy of their vaccine certificate along with a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within three days (72 hours) of arrival or a negative antigen test taken within one day of arrival (children age 5 and under are exempt from testing) and have travel insurance valid in Grenada.

Children under 12 are considered fully vaccinated when traveling with fully vaccinated parents/guardians. Children 12 and over must show their own proof of vaccination to be considered fully vaccinated.

Complete travel requirements can be found here.

The island’s curfew has been lifted, but inside dining at restaurants is only allowed for fully vaccinated travelers.

For more information on requirements and restrictions, check the U.S. Embassy in the Eastern Caribbean’s COVID-19 page for Grenada. The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Grenada is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the island is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Haiti

Haiti, which suffered political turmoil following the assassination of its president, Jovenel Moise, on July 7, 2021, and a 7.2 magnitude earthquake two weeks later, has reopened its borders to regular international passenger traffic. It has also opened its land borders with the Dominican Republic.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Haiti, travelers visiting the country need to complete a health declaration form and submit it to immigration authorities upon arrival. They will need to keep this form for the purposes of self-quarantine and contact tracing as necessary. The embassy also reports that as of Feb. 9, 2021, all travelers to Haiti will need to present a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours of travel to their airline; proof of prior COVID-19 infection (positive test and documentation from the attending physician) is also allowed.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Haiti is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Jamaica

old bus on the beach
Photo by Rock Staar on Unsplash

Jamaica officially reopened for tourism on June 15, 2020, and as of March 1, 2022, has removed its travel authorization requirement. All travelers age 12 and older must now only present a negative result of a COVID-19 PCR or antigen test taken within three days (72 hours) of boarding their flight to Jamaica.

Travelers had been expected to remain throughout their stay at accommodations within the “resilient corridors,” where hotels and resorts have been certified to accept tourists and adhere to social distancing and face mask policies in public. But now, all travelers can explore the island as long as they have a negative PCR test taken within three days of departure to Jamaica.

For faster processing upon arrival at the airport, travelers are encouraged to submit their Immigration/Customs C5 card online anytime before arrival. If the card has not been submitted online, passengers may complete the paper form issued in flight by the airline.

For the latest updates on requirements for travel to Jamaica, check here.

Visit the U.S. Embassy in Jamaica’s website for additional information. The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Jamaica is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the island is Level 2: Moderate Level of COVID-19.

Martinique

Martinique’s borders had been closed to tourism by the French government since Feb. 2, 2021, but Americans are now able to visit for tourism — if they are fully vaccinated.

According to the U.S. Embassy for the Eastern Caribbean, fully vaccinated travelers from “green” and “orange” countries (the U.S. is currently green) may enter if it has been more than two weeks since their second injection of the Pfizer, Moderna or AstraZeneca vaccine or more than four weeks since the single-injection Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Travel is prohibited for unvaccinated people unless it is based on an overriding personal or family reason, an emergency health reason or a professional reason that cannot be postponed.

All arrivals over the age of 11 who are permitted must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure or rapid antigen test taken within 48 hours of departure for Martinique and sign a sworn statement that they have no symptoms and have not been in contact over the past 14 days with a person confirmed to have COVID-19. Unvaccinated travelers granted permission to enter for a justified reason must quarantine for seven days until taking another test.

There is currently a curfew from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Martinique is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the island is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

St. Barts

As of June 9, 2021, fully vaccinated travelers from the U.S. are once again allowed to visit St. Barts, after a four-month period when France closed down tourism to this and other overseas territories. All Americans age 18 and older planning to visit St. Barts must provide proof of being at least two weeks past their final vaccination (and four weeks past the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine) and all travelers age 10 and older must present a negative result of COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival or an antigen test taken within 48 hours of arrival.

U.S. travelers arriving in St. Barts via St. Martin will need to register in advance through the St. Martin Electronic Health Authorization System and upload negative PCR results as well as pay a fee.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for St. Barts is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

For updates on coronavirus reopenings in St. Barts, check with the U.S. Embassy in the Eastern Caribbean.

St. Kitts and Nevis

St. Kitts and Nevis began a phased reopening on Oct. 31, 2020, but on May 29, 2021, changed its protocols to allow only fully vaccinated travelers to visit. Unvaccinated children under 12 accompanied by fully vaccinated parents (who are two weeks or more past their final vaccination) can enter without additional testing or quarantine.

All fully vaccinated travelers are required to:

  • Complete the entry form here no later than 24 hours before arrival and submit a negative COVID-19 PCR test from an accredited laboratory taken within 72 hours of arrival as well as proof of vaccination (official vaccination certificate) and confirmation of a hotel reservation at a certified hotel. Testing is required for all travelers.
  • Undergo a health screening at the airport which includes a temperature check and a health questionnaire.

Unvaccinated children age 11 and under can follow the same protocols as their fully vaccinated parents. Unvaccinated children between the ages of 12 and 17 who are traveling with fully vaccinated parents or guardians must undergo a PCR test ($150 for nonnationals and nonresidents) within 24 hours of arrival. Parents are to “vacation in place” (quarantine) with the child until receipt of negative RT-PCR test results.

Details can be found here.

One other note: Americans will need to stay at one of 13 approved hotels for international visitors. The good news? They include the Park Hyatt St. Kitts, the Four Seasons Nevis and the St. Kitts Marriott Resort.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for St. Kitts and Nevis is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution and the CDC’s advisory for the islands is Level 2: Moderate Level of COVID-19.

For complete details on travel requirements, visit the St. Kitts and Nevis Tourism website.

St. Lucia

Americans are welcome to visit St. Lucia, where flights to Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) have resumed and on-island activities are available for fully vaccinated travelers.

As of March 5:

  • Fully vaccinated travelers and in-transit passengers age 5 and over must have a negative rapid antigen test or a rapid PCR test taken one day prior to entering St. Lucia. Travelers may also provide a negative RT-PCR test taken up to five days prior to arrival.
  • All unvaccinated travelers must present a negative RT-PCR test, taken up to five days prior to entering St. Lucia.
  • All travelers must register their information and upload test results online prior to travel on stlucia.org/covid-19. On completion, they will receive an automatic “ready to go” email. The previous two-step approval process is no longer required for boarding.

Travelers must have a printed and signed copy of the St. Lucia Health Screening form.

Once they arrive in St. Lucia, travelers will undergo health checks and temperatures will be taken. All unvaccinated international visitors from outside the St. Lucia travel bubble will be required to remain at their certified property and only participate in certified tours and activities and visit only certified restaurants for the first seven days of their stay. Fully vaccinated travelers (those who are two weeks or more past their final dose) can enjoy expanded access to the island, according to St. Lucia’s tourism website. After seven days, unvaccinated visitors will be able to enjoy expanded access to the island.

If you are traveling with unvaccinated children ages 5-17 and you would like them to also be exempt from quarantine, they will need to be retested on arrival at your cost and they must remain in quarantine until the results of the test are known. Once the test is negative they will not be required to quarantine.

Masks and social distancing are required for the duration of the stay. Restaurants are open for indoor dining for fully vaccinated travelers only. There is also an islandwide curfew from 12 a.m. to 4 a.m. daily.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for St. Lucia is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the island is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

For further details, visit the international arrivals page on the St. Lucia Tourism website and the U.S. Embassy in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean’s website.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

St. Vincent and the Grenadines began reopening on July 1, 2020. Some of the islands’ stricter protocols have been eased for fully vaccinated travelers, and visitors from all countries are welcome, but everyone must fill out a health form within 24 hours of departure for the islands.

All fully vaccinated travelers from high-risk countries, including the U.S., need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours (three days) of arrival or negative rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours, but will no longer be tested again upon arrival or required to undergo a mandatory 48-hour quarantine at a Tourism Authority-approved transition/quarantine hotel. Details are here.

There are also new protocols as of Jan. 15 for fully vaccinated travelers who have tested positive for COVID-19 within the past 10 days to two months. Check here for details.

All high-risk travelers who are unvaccinated must present a negative result of a PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival, test again upon arrival and quarantine at an approved hotel for 10 nights (with proof of a fully paid reservation for those 10 nights). Then, retesting is required on day seven and day 10, along with ongoing monitoring by a Port Health officer.

An April 2021 eruption of La Soufriere volcano on the island of St. Vincent forced the evacuation of some residents and spread a layer of ash over many parts of the island, including the capital of Kingstown, and even on the neighboring island of Barbados.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for St. Vincent and the Grenadines is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the islands is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19. Check the website of the U.S. Embassy in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean for both COVID-19 and volcanic eruption updates.

St. Maarten

Dutch St. Maarten is open and welcoming U.S. and other travelers arriving at Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM). As of March 1, testing protocols are based on vaccination and booster status:

  • Fully vaccinated U.S. travelers no longer need to pretest to enter St. Maarten as long as they have proof of full vaccination or full vaccination plus a booster dose taken at least two weeks prior to arrival (and within nine months of arrival). Travelers with proof of recovery from COVID-19 within the past nine months also do not need a pre-travel test.
  • Unvaccinated travelers age 5 and older must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of travel.
  • No test is required for children under 5.

As of Jan. 26, all travelers to St. Maarten must also apply for a pre-authorization health form online, in addition to purchasing a St. Maarten Visitors Protection Plan, which provides health insurance covering COVID-19 testing and treatment while on the island. The plan is free for those travelers under the age of 14 and $15 for everyone else. Travelers should expect health checks upon arrival.

More details are available from the St. Maarten Health Authorization System and the U.S. Consulate General in Curacao, which oversees Dutch St. Maarten.

As travelers from a high-risk country, Americans are also expected to practice daily self-monitoring and reporting of symptoms for five days.

U.S. tourists are currently allowed to cross the border from Dutch St. Maarten to French Saint-Martin.

The U.S. State Department advisory is Level 3: Reconsider Travel for both Dutch St. Maarten and French Saint-Martin. The CDC’s advisory for Dutch St. Maarten is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Trinidad and Tobago

Pigeon Point Beach, Trinidad and Tobago
Photo by Renaldo Matamoro on Unsplash

Trinidad and Tobago issued a stay-at-home order in late March 2020 and banned tourists. The country’s borders reopened on July 17, 2021, but a travel advisory prohibits unvaccinated nonnationals, meaning only fully vaccinated individuals are allowed to enter at this time.

All visitors are also required to apply for a TTravel Pass within 72 hours of arrival in the country, in addition to submitting a negative PCR test taken within the same time frame.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Trinidad and Tobago is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19. Check the U.S. Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago website for updates.

Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos, a group of 40 low-lying coral islands popular with tourists in the Caribbean, began welcoming international visitors to Providenciales International Airport (PLS) on July 22, 2020. This British overseas territory includes the island of Providenciales, also known as Provo.

Turks and Caicos now requires all visitors 18 years of age or older to be fully vaccinated, meaning 14 days must have passed after receiving a single-dose vaccine or a second dose of a two-dose vaccine. Vaccines currently approved are Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson and others.

To show proof of vaccination, you’ll need to provide:

  • A digital or paper vaccination record, including the CDC-issued card.
  • A vaccination letter signed by a medical professional (physician or registered nurse with license number), or one printed from an electronic vaccination database.

Travelers to Turks and Caicos age 2 and older are required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test taken within three days of visiting the islands. Take note that antibody tests and at-home test kits are not accepted.

Also, travelers must have medical insurance valid for the treatment of COVID-19 in Turks and Caicos and obtain travel preauthorization via the TCI Assured Portal. Masks are required in public places, but the islands’ curfew was lifted Dec. 1, 2021, and restaurants and bars are open at full capacity.

For the latest information, visit the Turks and Caicos tourism website and check the website of the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas, which oversees Turks and Caicos.

The U.S. State Department advisory for Turks and Caicos is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the islands is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Europe

As of late March, much of Europe continues to experience a fourth wave of COVID-19 due to the omicron BA.2 subvariant, although cases are easing in some areas. Several Scandinavian countries and England have opted to relax COVID-19 restrictions; however, the U.S. State Department and CDC continue to classify most countries in Europe as Level 4: Do Not Travel and Level: 4 Very High Level of COVID-19.

Some European countries still require digital proof of vaccination to access indoor spaces such as restaurants, hotels and museums, while others such as France have dropped the requirements.

The European Council recommended in late February that its member countries open more broadly to travelers from outside the EU, but individual countries are setting specific dates for easing their restrictions, with Italy dropping its pre-travel test requirement for fully vaccinated travelers on March 1 and Iceland dropping testing and vaccination requirements for all travelers on Feb. 25. By late March and early April the following countries had also dropped all COVID-19-related entry requirements for travelers: the United Kingdom, Ireland, Sweden, Hungary, Montenegro and Romania.

Albania

The Albanian government lifted all restrictions on tourism on July 1, 2020, and Americans can visit, according to the U.S. Embassy in Albania.

Effective Sept. 6, 2021, all arriving passengers age 6 and older must meet one of the following three conditions, per the U.S. Embassy:

  • Submit a vaccination passport where the date of full vaccination is no later than two weeks from the date of entry in Albania.
  • Show proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours or a rapid antigen test taken within 48 hours.
  • Provide documentation from a licensed health care provider of having recovered from COVID-19 in the six months preceding travel.

There is enhanced health screening at all airports and mask-wearing in all indoor public spaces is mandatory for everyone age 11 and older. The U.S. Embassy also notes that travelers should be prepared for travel restrictions to be put into effect with little or no advance notice.

Albania has a curfew from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. until further notice and all bars, restaurants and fast-food outlets can offer only delivery during those hours. Masks are required in all indoor public spaces.

The U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for Albania is now Level 3: Reconsider Travel while the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Armenia

armenian church
Photo by Ani Adigyozalyan on Unsplash

Armenia has reopened its borders to Americans, according to the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan. All visitors over the age of 6 are now required to present either documentation of a completed vaccination at least 14 days prior or a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival, or submit to a test (cost: $40) in the public area of the arrivals hall of Zvartnots International Airport (EVN) and self-isolate until receiving the result, usually within 24 hours. Masks are mandated in public spaces and on public transportation.

The U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for Armenia is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Austria

lake church and old houses
Photo by Dimitry Anikin on Unsplash

Austria has just made it easier to enter the country with proof of vaccination, recovery or a pre-travel negative test.

After experiencing its highest number of cases of the entire pandemic, Austria reentered lockdown and enacted a nationwide stay-at-home order on Nov. 22, 2021, that shut down tourism through Dec. 20, 2021, when tourism and hospitality venues reopened to vaccinated individuals only, according to the U.S. Embassy in Austria. The embassy notes that COVID-19 rules and protocols in the country change frequently and with little advance notice, as they recently did.

Entry rules for Austria since Dec. 20, 2021, had depended on a combination of vaccination, boosters, testing and quarantine known as “2-G+” rules, but as of Feb. 22, those were replaced by a “3-G” rule. This means that travelers seeking to enter Austria need to be vaccinated, recovered or tested.

Travelers who cannot provide proof of vaccination (the second jab within the past 270 days or a booster dose is needed) or recovery (within the past 180 days) must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival or a negative antigen test taken within 24 hours. Detailed updates on vaccination, booster and testing requirements (and how long vaccination is valid) can be found here.

Austria also eased some of its social protocols as of March 5.

Entry tests — proof of vaccination, recovery or a recent COVID-19 test — are still required to enter certain businesses, including restaurants, bars, hotels, museums, cinemas, theaters and other cultural facilities. For those vaccinated in the U.S., most businesses will accept a photo of your CDC vaccination card or WHO yellow vaccination card on your phone.

The country does still require that FFP2 or KN95 face masks be worn on public transportation and in cultural venues, essential shops and pharmacies, hotels and restaurants when one is not seated and eating. For details on current restrictions, check here.

Check the U.S. Embassy in Austria for additional information. The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Austria is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Azerbaijan

According to the U.S. Embassy in Azerbaijan, as of June 21, 2021, U.S. citizens can fly to Azerbaijan. Entry by land is not permitted, however, and all travelers over the age of 18 must have proof of vaccination or proof of immunity from a previous infection, as well as a negative COVID-19 PCR test issued within 72 hours of departure for Azerbaijan (for passengers over the age of 1). The 14-day quarantine for travelers was lifted on June 2, 2021.

The country is under special restrictions through at least May 1 to require proof of vaccination for those 18 and older to enter indoor venues, including restaurants, cafes and malls. Restaurants, cafes and most other businesses are open, beaches and shopping centers reopened on June 10, 2021, and the Baku metro is open for daily service. Masks are required in all indoor spaces.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Azerbaijan is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Belarus

Belarus is on the frontlines of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The country has also been in the midst of a popular uprising against Alexander Lukashenko, called the “last dictator in Europe,” and the country’s government set off an international furor on May 23, 2021, when it ordered the diversion of a Ryanair flight traveling from Greece to Lithuania in order to arrest opposition journalist Raman Pratasevich.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Do Not Travel (“due to the arbitrary enforcement of laws, the risk of detention, the Russian military attack on neighboring Ukraine, the buildup of Russian military in Belarus along the border with Ukraine, COVID-19 and related entry restrictions”) and the CDC’s is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

It isn’t wise to visit — the embassy has suspended operations in Minsk and has asked American to depart Belarus if they are there — but the country bordering Russia and Ukraine is open. According to the U.S. Embassy in Belarus, Americans are on a list of countries that were allowed to enter as of Aug. 15, 2020, but only through Minsk National Airport (MSQ). Land borders are closed to American travelers.

Americans require a visa. A COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours is also required and unvaccinated travelers from a “red zone” country (including the U.S.) must self-quarantine for seven days — and complete the full quarantine in Belarus. Travelers also need to fill out a health questionnaire and submit to temperature and health checks on arrival.

Note: On June 29, 2021, the U.S. Department of Transportation prohibited the sale of direct passenger air transportation, including tickets booked through one airline that contain flights operated by multiple airlines, between the U.S. and Belarus. Once this order becomes final, only direct air transportation deemed to be in the national interest of the United States, including on humanitarian or national security grounds, will be allowed, per the U.S. Embassy.

Belgium

old houses on the river
Photo by Olivier Depaep on Unsplash

According to the Embassy  and Consulates of Belgium in the U.S., fully vaccinated Americans can now travel to Belgium without testing or quarantine..

Travelers age 12 and older who do not reside in Belgium must present a valid and recognized vaccination certificate. Both the CDC vaccination card and — when available — state-issued vaccination certificates are accepted as valid proofs of vaccination. Upon arrival in Belgium, vaccinated travelers no longer need to test or quarantine.

Unvaccinated travelers can only travel in exceptional circumstances with an essential travel certificate and must present a negative COVID-19 test. PCR tests must be performed no more than 72 hours prior to arrival and rapid antigen tests  must be performed no more than 24 hours prior to arrival. Further information about testing and quarantine can be found here.

All travelers to Belgium must also fill out a passenger locator form.

According to the Embassy and Consulates of Belgium in the U.S., fully vaccinated means the final dose was given within 270 days or a booster dose is needed.

Belgium, which has been hit hard by COVID-19, had been under a severe lockdown and some restrictions remain. Additional information is available on the U.S. Embassy in Belgium’s website.

Americans are urged to check Belgium’s list of countries by color status before travel. The U.S. is currently a dark red/grey country. All travelers to Belgium must fill out a passenger locator form at least 48 hours ahead of arrival. Details and updates are here and here.

Belgium had also instituted social distancing restrictions, which are being tossed. Face masks are still required on public transit. The COVID Safe Ticket,  required for entry into public venues in Belgium, will no longer be required for bars and restaurants as of March 7. A CST shows that the holder is either fully vaccinated, has had a recent negative PCR test or has recovered from COVID-19 within the last six months. For more information, check the country’s Current Measures updates.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Belgium is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Most u mostaru
Photo by Yu Siang Teo on Unsplash

Americans can travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina and, according to the U.S. Embassy, all visitors over the age of 7 must present one of the following: a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) not older than 48 hours if coming from Europe and not older than 72 hours if arriving from other countries (including the United States), a COVID-19 vaccination certificate showing full vaccination completed 10 days prior to arrival, or a doctor’s certificate of COVID-19 recovery in the period 10 to 180 days prior to arrival.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Bosnia and Herzegovina is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Bulgaria

mountains rocks sky
Photo by Dorothea OLDANI on Unsplash

Americans traveling from the U.S. can enter Bulgaria for tourism, as the U.S. has now been designated an “orange zone” country, per the U.S. Embassy in Bulgaria.

According to the embassy, all travelers arriving in Bulgaria from an orange-zone country, regardless of their citizenship, can enter without quarantine if they present an EU Digital COVID Certificate showing vaccination against COVID-19, a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of arrival or have recovered from COVID-19 within 11 to 180 days.

Vaccination documents containing the same data as the EU Digital COVID Certificate, such as a CDC-issued vaccination record card, are also accepted. The validity of a two-dose vaccination for entry without a booster or pre-travel testing is 15-270 days and then a booster is required. Unvaccinated children ages 12-18 need to present a negative PCR test to enter.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Bulgaria is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Croatia

walls of dubrovnik
Photo by Matthias Mullie on Unsplash

U.S. travelers can visit Croatia — but they must have proof of a reserved or fully paid accommodation.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Croatia, U.S. tourists must fill out the Enter Croatia form and present one of the following:

  • A negative result of a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival or an approved rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours of arrival.
  • A vaccination certificate showing vaccination was completed at least 14 days before entry to Croatia but not earlier than 270 days before entry (or a booster dose is required).
  • A certificate of vaccination for people who recovered from COVID-19 and have received one dose of the vaccine within eight months of contracting the virus provided the vaccine was administered within the last 270 days.
  • A positive PCR test result or rapid antigen test result, confirming that the holder recovered from COVID-19, which was performed in the previous 180 days and which is older than 11 days from the date of arrival at the border crossing point, or a medical certificate of recovery.

Unvaccinated travelers in some cases may also test upon arrival (at the traveler’s cost) and self-isolate until receiving a negative result. All travelers visiting for tourism purposes must also provide proof of a reservation or accommodation paid in advance.

The U.S. Embassy also notes that entry requirements are subject to change at any time without notice and that the Croatian Border Police have final authority regarding entry into Croatia.

Croatia requires that masks be worn in indoor public spaces and outdoors when social distancing can not be maintained.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Croatia is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Cyprus

Ayia Napa, Cyprus
Photo by George Lemon on Unsplash

Cyprus, a small island nation off the coast of Turkey, is now open to Americans arriving directly from the United States.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Cyprus, tourists may travel from the United States to the Republic of Cyprus provided they have an approved “Cyprus Flight Pass.” The country changed its entry requirements as of Feb. 21, based on new green, red and grey country categories (the U.S. is currently red):

  • If fully vaccinated (which means a booster for those 18 and older if it has been more than nine months since completing vaccination, but a booster is not required for those under age 18), a U.S. traveler does not need to upload a pre-travel negative test result.
  • If not fully vaccinated or in possession of a valid certificate of recovery from COVID-19, passengers age 12 and older arriving from a red country (which the U.S. currently is) must present a negative PCR or rapid antigen test result (taken within 72 hours or 24 hours, respectively) and undergo a PCR test upon arrival at their own expense.

Face coverings are required in all public spaces for people age 12 and older. According to the U.S. Embassy, many venues, such as malls and retail centers, are restricted to those with a valid “Safepass,” defined as a negative test (PCR or rapid antigen) in the previous 72 hours, proof of at least one dose of vaccination at least three weeks prior, or proof of having contracted coronavirus in the previous six months. But for tourists, proof of a Cyprus Flight Pass suffices. Only the police or health officials have the right to request these proofs. Restaurants are open for both indoor and outdoor service, with indoor seating open only to those with a valid Safepass or Flight Pass.

The CDC has issued a Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19 advisory for Cyprus, while the U.S. State Department’s advisory is Level 4: Do Not Travel.

Czech Republic

Astronomical clock, Prague, Czech Republic
Photo by Darko Kukovec on Unsplash

As of March 18, both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers from the U.S. can enter the country for tourism, according to the latest rules posted by the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Washington, D.C.

All travelers need to fill out a passenger locator form and present one of the following:

  • Proof of vaccination (with the last dose within 270 days or a booster is required).
  • Proof of recovery from COVID-19 (within 11 to 180 days).
  • A negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel or a negative rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours.

Travelers without proof of vaccination or recovery must also submit to a PCR test within five to seven days of arrival. Children under 12 are exempt from testing and children ages 12-18 who have both shots do not require a booster.

Check for updates here and here.

The Embassy of the Czech Republic in Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Embassy in the Czech Republic both note that direct flights between the U.S. and the Czech Republic do not currently exist and advise travelers from the U.S. to be cognizant of transit travel measures and testing requirements by checking transit measures for the counties they will transit prior to travel.

The latest updates on restrictions, which now include wearing FFP2 masks (equivalent to N95 masks) on public transport, can be found here.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for the Czech Republic is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Denmark

houses by the river
Photo by Nick Karvounis on Unsplash

As of March 29, there are no longer any COVID-19-related restrictions for entering Denmark. Americans, whether they are vaccinated or not, can travel there for tourism.

As of March 1, Americans who are fully vaccinated (at least 14 days but no more than 270 days past their final dose of Pfizer or Moderna or 284 days past their single dose of Johnson & Johnson; a booster dose extends the validity) or who can prove recovery from a COVID-19 infection within the past 11-180 days can visit Denmark without pre-travel testing or quarantine, according to the U.S. Embassy in Denmark.

As of Feb. 1, Denmark also dropped all COVID-19 restrictions within the country, although private business and cultural institutions may continue to require certain things and there will be recommendations for the use of masks and corona passports in certain limited situations; face masks are required in airports.

Updated travel restrictions for Denmark can be found here.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Denmark is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Estonia

Estonia reopened to Americans as of June 21, 2021, according to the U.S. Embassy in Estonia, including for tourism. But as of September, only U.S. travelers who have proof of being fully vaccinated can enter for tourism and must fill out an online declaration of health form within 72 hours before arrival in Estonia.

Only unvaccinated U.S. travelers deemed to be visiting for a worthy purpose (work, study or family reasons) can enter and are required to complete the declaration of health form, present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of travel and complete a seven-day quarantine. Unvaccinated Americans who have proof of recovery from a previous infection must do a pre-travel test (taken within 72 hours for a PCR test and 24 hours for a rapid antigen test), but do not have to quarantine. See more information here.

As of Jan. 17, all countries in the EU, with the exception of the Vatican, have been moved to the “red” list, meaning unvaccinated visitors from within the EU must quarantine seven days upon arrival. The list of countries by color status can be found here.

As of Aug. 26, 2021, a COVID-19 certificate showing proof of vaccination, a recent negative test or evidence of having recovered from the coronavirus is required for most indoor spaces. Masks are still required.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Estonia is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Finland

northern lights in finland
Photo by Maria Vojtovicova on Unsplash

Americans can visit Finland, per the Visit Finland tourism board. However, the country is prohibiting unvaccinated U.S. visitors traveling for tourism through at least April 10.

Travelers from all countries, including the U.S., are now permitted to enter Finland, as long as they have been fully vaccinated for at least seven days (and within 270 days or a booster is required) prior to travel to Finland. Travelers can also present a certificate showing they have recovered from COVID-19 within the past six months and have also received one COVID-19 vaccine shot at least seven days prior to arrival. The Finnish government will accept vaccines authorized by the European Medicines Agency and/or World Health Organization. Acceptable vaccination certificates include the EU Digital COVID Certificate as well as those written in English, Finnish or Swedish.

All these requirements apply to any traveler born in 2006 and earlier.

Unvaccinated travelers from the United States are permitted to enter Finland for essential reasons only through at least April 10. Details on entry requirements can be found here.

The U.S. Embassy in Finland also notes that as of Dec. 21, 2021, U.S. citizens can use their CDC vaccination cards to access restaurants, bars, tourist attractions and/or recreational facilities; previously, U.S. citizens have reported being refused entry into private and public establishments in Finland without an EU Digital COVID Certificate.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Finland in Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

France

eiffel tower
Photo by Chris Karidis on Unsplash

France now allows fully vaccinated (and boosted) U.S. travelers to enter with no pre-travel testing required. Unvaccinated U.S. travelers can also now visit for tourism, but need to present a negative pre-travel test.

The U.S. is now designated “green” and fully vaccinated travelers (who are seven days past but within 270 days of the second injection of the Pfizer, Moderna or AstraZeneca vaccine or 28 days past but within 270 days of the single-injection Johnson & Johnson vaccine — or who have been boosted at least one week before travel) can present proof of vaccination to enter. They also need to provide a sworn statement attesting they do not have COVID-19 symptoms nor have they been in contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19.

Unvaccinated U.S. travelers, who previously had to be approved for essential travel, can now visit for tourism but they must provide a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours or antigen test taken within 48 hours of boarding their flight. Testing upon arrival and quarantine requirements have ended.

Updates to entry restrictions can be found here.

As of March 14, France also ended the requirement for a Health Pass to enter public venues in France, with the exception of hospitals and nursing homes.

The U.S. Embassy also notes that France often changes restrictions for the United Kingdom and cautions Americans to carefully consult the Embassy of France in the UK website before planning any travel between the U.K. and France.

Check the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in France for additional updates; details on current restrictions are available here.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for France is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Georgia

Americans are welcome in the country of Georgia, according to the U.S. Embassy in Georgia, including those who have documented proof of completed COVID-19 vaccinations with no additional testing required.

Travelers must provide either proof of full vaccination or a negative PCR test result conducted 72 hours or less before arrival in Georgia

Travelers under 10 years old are exempt from testing obligations.

According to the U.S. Embassy, the COVID-19 “green pass” system created Dec. 1, 2021, requiring all individuals age 18 and older to have “green status” to enter most public venues, has been lifted as of Feb. 1.

The U.S. State Department’s current advisory for Georgia is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Germany

Old town Germany
Photo by Roman Kraft on Unsplash

The German government confirmed that Americans are welcome as of June 20, 2021. And with omicron-wave cases in the country having peaked after a two-month surge, the government announced on Feb.16 that it would begin lifting some capacity and gathering restrictions, with the general lifting of many COVID-19 restrictions as of March 20 — although some states can extend them based on local cases.

Germany dropped all countries from its “high-risk” list on March 3, but according to the U.S. Embassy in Germany, travelers from the U.S. still need to be fully vaccinated or, if unvaccinated, demonstrate an important reason for entering Germany and be approved by the government.

U.S. travelers age 12 and older entering Germany must present proof of vaccination (if with Johnson & Johnson, a second dose with Pfizer is required and all vaccines are valid for 270 days, then a booster dose is required), proof of recovery in the past 90 days or, if unvaccinated and approved, a negative COVID-19 PCR or rapid antigen test taken within 48 hours of boarding a flight. Children ages 6 to 11 need to present proof of vaccination (no booster required), proof of recovery or a negative PCR or antigen test taken within 48 hours.

The latest updates for travel can be found here.

Masks are still required in indoor public spaces.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Germany is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Greece

Santorini seaside
Photo by Jonathan Gallegos on Unsplash

Greece began welcoming U.S. travelers on April 19, 2021, and several cruise lines, including Celebrity, also spent the summer sailing the Greek islands from Athens.

But the spread of the delta and the omicron variants this winter renewed COVID-19 testing restrictions as of Dec. 19, 2021. However, as of Feb. 21 entry requirements were eased for U.S. travelers, who are now required to present just one of the following:

  • A vaccination certificate indicating a final dose was administered less than nine months ago; a booster dose extends validity without a time limit.
  • Proof of recovery from COVID-19 issued at least 14 days after the first positive test result and valid for 180 days thereafter.
  • A negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours before arrival or a negative antigen test taken within 24 hours of arrival.

Random testing may be conducted upon arrival at the airport as well.

As of March 15, it is no longer mandatory to complete an online passenger locator form but filling out a simplified version of the form can allow individuals and families to receive a QR code for their negative test result.

By testing, unvaccinated U.S. travelers can still enter Greece, but the new rules make it difficult to do much of anything since the government has restricted access to many categories of businesses and public services. During their stay in Greece, foreign visitors must follow all measures that apply to Greek citizens. In particular, access to indoor areas of restaurants and leisure and sports facilities is allowed only after showing a vaccination certificate valid for seven months after the completion of the basic vaccination; a booster dose extends validity without a time limit.

The CDC card issued to those vaccinated in the U.S. is acceptable as proof of vaccination and booster doses.

Non-EU residents are advised to book a direct flight to Greece. Check the U.S. Embassy in Greece website for additional information.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Greece is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Hungary

Budapest Parliament Danube
Photo by Ervin Lukacs on Unsplash

As of March 7, Hungary ended all COVID-19-related travel restrictions for travelers, including Americans, according to the U.S. Embassy in Hungary.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Hungary is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Iceland

Idyllic landscape with a waterfall
Photo by Robert Lukeman on Unsplash

Iceland is welcoming U.S. travelers — and as of Feb. 25, there are no longer any testing or vaccination requirements to enter from any country.

Read the latest updates on the Icelandic government site and on Icelandair’s website.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Iceland is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Check the U.S. Embassy in Iceland website for additional information.

Ireland

Castle on the hill
Photo by Aldo De La Paz on Unsplash

As of March 6, Ireland has dropped all COVID-19-related entry requirements for both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers, and completing a passenger locator form is no longer required.

Updates on traveling to Ireland are here. Details on loosened restrictions within Ireland can be found here and here.

For additional information, visit the U.S. Embassy in Ireland’s website.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Ireland is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of  COVID-19.

Italy

Summer in Venice
Photo by Dan Novac on Unsplash

Americans are allowed to visit Italy for tourism. As of March 1, all travelers need to be asymptomatic and show proof of full vaccination, have proof of recovery from a COVID-19 infection within the past 90 days or provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival or antigen test taken within 48 hours of arrival to avoid self-isolation.

Those who are vaccinated must have had their final dose within the past 270 days or they must be boosted. The white CDC card is accepted.

All unvaccinated travelers unable to prove recovery from COVID-19 in the past 90 days must present a negative PCR or antigen test taken within 72 or 48 hours, respectively, or they will be required to self-isolate for five days and undergo a PCR or antigen test at the end of isolation.

Children age 6 and older accompanied by a fully vaccinated parent/caregiver must take the predeparture COVID-19 test; children under age 6 are exempt.

All passengers traveling to Italy also need to fill out the EU Digital Passenger Locator Form. And all arrivals may be subject to random swab tests.

In addition, as of Aug. 6, 2021, Italy requires proof of vaccination to visit museums, dine in restaurants, use public transportation and access most other indoor venues. And, according to the U.S. Embassy in Italy, the Italian government has added more restrictive rules, which will be in effect from Dec. 6, 2021, to at least March 31, 2022. The decree defines a “Super Green Pass” which will be granted only to people who are fully vaccinated or who have recovered from COVID-19. Individuals will be able to continue receiving a “Basic Green Pass” by testing negative for coronavirus.

The Super Green Pass is now required to stay in hotels and bed-and-breakfasts, to use all public transportation (including local buses, metros and trains and to board airplanes and high-speed trains), as well as some social activities such as museums, indoor dining, theaters and sporting and entertainment events. The latest decree also decreases the validity of the Green Pass from nine months to six months.

The CDC vaccination card and a government-issued photo ID are accepted for Americans to access indoor venues. Unvaccinated travelers may be able to gain access by showing results of a negative COVID-19 test within the last 48 hours.

Until March 31, the use of FFP2 and KN95 masks is mandatory to participate in all indoor and outdoor cultural and recreational events, and on all transportation. The requirement to wear masks outdoors throughout all of Italy, except in congested areas where social distancing isn’t possible, expired on Feb. 10.

Check the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Italy for additional information. Details for U.S. travelers can be found here. The latest updates by Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs can be found here.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Italy is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Latvia

Americans can visit Latvia. According to the U.S. Embassy in Latvia, new regulations for travelers entering Latvia went into effect as of March 1. Travelers from the U.S. and other non-high-risk countries can now enter Latvia by presenting any of the following:

  • A CDC paper vaccine certificate.
  • An interoperable digital EU certificate (either in an electronic smart device or printed out) or a vaccination certificate issued in specific other countries including the EU, the EEA countries, Switzerland or the United Kingdom.
  • A certificate of recovery from COVID-19.
  • A negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours or an antigen test taken not more than 48 hours before boarding the flight or entering Latvia.

The prior requirement to provide an essential reason to enter Latvia and register entry is canceled as of March 1.

As of Feb.15, the validity of a COVID-19 vaccination certificate is nine months after completing the vaccination course with Pfizer or Moderna and five months after receiving Johnson & Johnson ( a booster extends validity). This requirement doesn’t apply to entry into Latvia, but does apply to places and businesses where it is necessary to present a vaccination certificate and does not apply to children until 18 years of age.

As of Jan. 25, only medical masks and/or masks marked as FPP2, FFP3 or KN95 can be worn indoors/outdoors regardless of vaccination status. This requirement does not apply to children until 12 years of age.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Latvia is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Liechtenstein

Switzerland handles immigration and customs matters for Liechtenstein, meaning that as long as you are qualified to enter Switzerland, you are able to enter Liechtenstein since there’s an open border between the two countries.

All Americans had been allowed in for tourism as of June 28, 2021, according to the U.S. Embassy, but now only fully vaccinated U.S. travelers are permitted. Those arriving by airplane must present proof of being fully vaccinated within the past 270 days (or boosted) or having recovered from COVID-19 within the past six months. No additional testing is required.

Unvaccinated Americans can no longer visit for nonessential purposes, but those residing in non-high-risk countries can enter Switzerland by following the required protocols for that country.

Travelers can check their eligibility to enter Switzerland and Liechtenstein at the countries’ online TravelCheck. They can also check with the Swiss Embassy in Washington, D.C.

Most COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but masks are still required on public transit and inside hospitals, clinics and retirement homes. Additional details are here.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Liechtenstein is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Lithuania

Americans can visit Lithuania for any purpose, according to the U.S. Embassy in Lithuania, and must provide one of the following to enter:

  • Proof of full vaccination (with the final shot within the past 270 days or a booster is required; a booster is not required for vaccinated people under age 18).
  • Proof (medical letter) of recovery from COVID-19 in the past 180 days.
  • A negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival or a negative antigen test taken within 48 hours (if age 16 or older); the negative test must be presented to board a flight.

Anyone who is not fully vaccinated or can not show proof of recovery is also required to undergo seven days of self-isolation.

Information on all requirements for entry to Lithuania can be found here. All travelers from outside the EEA must complete a registration form to receive a QR code to present before boarding.

Most tourist attractions are now open in Lithuania. According to the U.S. Embassy, individuals need to wear medical masks or respirators — not cloth masks — in public places where masks are required, regardless of vaccination status. Information about the current restrictions can be found on the Ministry of Health’s web page.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Lithuania is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Luxembourg

According to the U.S. Embassy in Luxembourg, as of Nov. 7, 2021, fully vaccinated travelers from the U.S. are again allowed to enter Luxembourg and the CDC card is accepted as proof of vaccination. People arriving by air from a Schengen Area country (but not if travel originated in the United States) can, if unvaccinated and unrecovered, present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours or a rapid antigen test taken within 48 hours of boarding the flight.

Details on travel to Luxembourg are available here.

Masks and CovidCheck are no longer required for entrance to bars, restaurants and stores (only for hospitals and nursing homes), but masks are required on public transport. Read more about Luxembourg’s restrictions here.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Luxembourg is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Malta

Marsaxlokk Malta old fisherman village and important tourist attraction on the island
Photo by CALIN STAN on Unsplash

Vaccinated Americans from all 50 states can travel to Malta with a CDC-issued COVID-19 vaccination record. Unvaccinated U.S. travelers are no longer allowed to enter as the U.S. is a “Red List” country, per the Maltese government. The regularly updated list can be found here.

American travelers must verify their CDC card through the VeriFly app by uploading vaccine information and other required travel documentation to activate their “Trip to Malta” pass, per the U.S. Embassy in Malta.

Vaccinated U.S. residents can currently visit directly from the U.S. and must fill out the digital EU passenger locator form. Pre-travel testing is not required with proof of vaccination, but that could be subject to change and travelers heading to Malta to board a cruise ship will likely be required to take a COVID-19 PCR test before departure.

In addition, the U.S. Embassy notes that as of Jan. 17, vaccination certificates will expire on fixed dates based on the date of a person’s last vaccine dose. Individuals without a booster shot will no longer be recognized as fully vaccinated by the government of Malta if their second dose was more than three months ago; booster doses are valid for nine months. Those who are not considered to be fully vaccinated may not be able to enter Malta, or may be required to undergo mandatory quarantine. Currently, vaccination is accepted if the last dose was within three months; booster doses extend validity for nine months. Details are available on the Ministry of Health website.

Updates on entry requirements can be found here.

Masks are required in all indoor and mass events.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Malta is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Moldova

As of March 16, Moldova has lifted all COVID-19-related entry restrictions and Americans are permitted to enter Moldova, but the country’s proximity to Ukraine makes travel there inadvisable at this time; airspace had been closed through March 21, but has reopened.

Check the U.S. Embassy in Moldova’s website and the Moldovan Border Police website for more information.

Face masks are required in all indoor public spaces.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Moldova is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Monaco

The Embassy of Monaco in Washington, D.C., reports that as of Feb. 12, fully vaccinated travelers over the age of 11 from the U.S. and Canada are permitted to travel to Monaco (whose immigration is overseen by France) for tourism with proof of full vaccination (a booster is required for those age 18 and older if the final dose was more than nine months ago) and no required pre-travel test (children under age 12 are exempt from testing). Travelers must also sign a sworn statement attesting to an absence of symptoms and no contact with an infected individual.

France recently relisted the U.S. as a “green country,” so unvaccinated U.S. travelers age 12 and older can again visit Monaco for tourism and must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of boarding or a negative antigen test taken within 24 hours of boarding. Requirements for random antigen testing upon arrival and seven days of self-isolation have ended.

France handles immigration and customs for Monaco. Details are here.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for France/Monaco is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Montenegro

Island Sveti Stefan
Photo by Oleg Gratilo on Unsplash

Montenegro is open to Americans and the U.S. Embassy in Montenegro notes that as of March 11, no proof of vaccination, COVID-19 passports/certificates or COVID-19 tests are required to enter Montenegro.

As of Sept. 3, 2021, face masks must be worn indoors and in all public transportation, airports, stations and taxis.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Montenegro is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

The Netherlands

windmills on the river
Photo by Michal Soukup on Unsplash

According to the U.S. Embassy in the Netherlands, passengers arriving from outside of the EU/Schengen Area who are fully vaccinated or who have proof of recovery from COVID-19 within 11-180 days no longer need to present a negative COVID-19 test to enter the Netherlands as of March 23.

All travelers age 13 and up must complete an online health declaration form before traveling to the Netherlands. Vaccinated or recovered travelers are expected to take a self-test immediately upon arrival, while unvaccinated travelers who are traveling for essential reasons (tourism is not allowed without a vaccination or recovery certificate) are strongly advised to test on days two and five.

The Netherlands has a TravelCheck tool for incoming travelers. And for the latest updates on restrictions, check here.

The country also lifted COVID-19 restrictions on social venues as of Feb. 25.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for the Netherlands is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

North Macedonia

Church at a lake
Photo by Milana Jovanov on Unsplash

North Macedonia is now open to all tourists, including Americans, with vaccine and testing requirements as of Sept. 1, 2021. All travelers over 18 entering and exiting the country must provide one of the following: proof of vaccination, a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to travel or a negative rapid antigen test taken within 48 hours prior to travel, or proof of recovery from COVID-19 within the past 45 days.

Otherwise, you will be subject to a seven-day quarantine, to be shortened by taking a PCR test after day five, according to the U.S. Embassy in North Macedonia.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for North Macedonia is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Norway

Waterfront red houses
Photo by John O’Nolan on Unsplash

As of Feb. 12, Norway’s travel restrictions have been lifted. The same rules as prior to the COVID-19 pandemic now apply. There are no requirements for testing, quarantine or registration upon arrival in Norway.

Testing before and after arrival in Svalbard will continue.

Visit the Norwegian government website for further updates.

Detailed information about travel to Norway and national and local COVID-19 prevention measures are available on Health Norway’s website.

Norway reopened to U.S. travelers as of Nov. 26, 2021, after being closed to most Americans since Sept. 12, 2021, according to the U.S. Embassy.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Norway is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Poland

Colorful houses in Wroclaw, Poland, Wroclaw

U.S. citizens are now permitted to visit if they arrive on an international flight. They are, however, only allowed to travel to Poland by land or sea (including from war-torn Ukraine, with which Poland shares a border) if they meet one of the below entry restrictions, per the U.S. Embassy:

  • Foreigners who are spouses/children of Polish citizens or remain under the constant care of Polish citizens.
  • Foreigners holding an ID card for those with a claim to Polish heritage through ancestry.
  • Foreigners who have permanent or temporary residence in Poland.
  • Foreigners who are authorized to employment under the same rules as Polish citizens, who perform work in Poland or will take up employment immediately after entering Poland.
  • Students enrolled in Polish educational institutions.
  • Scientists conducting research or developmental work in Poland.
  • Foreigners participating in international sports competitions, including media.
  • Foreigners who transport goods.
  • People with Polish diplomatic status.
  • Other humanitarian cases approved by the chief of the Border Guard.

Travelers need to fill out a passenger locator form. And as of Dec. 15, 2021, all travelers age 5 years and older arriving from outside the Schengen Area, whether they are vaccinated or not, must present a negative PCR or antigen test result take within 24 hours of arrival. Those who are unvaccinated and have not recovered from COVID-19 must also quarantine for seven days; those who can show a certificate of vaccination against COVID-19 with an EU-approved vaccine or recovery from COVID-19 within the past six months are exempt from quarantine. Details are here.

To avoid a mandatory seven-day hotel or home quarantine (with release possible after taking a COVID-19 test after 48 hours with a negative result), any traveler entering Poland from within the Schengen Area must also present one of the following: proof of full vaccination, proof of recovery from COVID-19 within the past six months, or a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test taken at least 48 hours prior. Travelers under age 12 who are accompanied by a vaccinated parent or one presenting a negative test are exempt from quarantine.

Check with the U.S. Embassy for specifics. Additional information is available here.

Face masks are mandatory in indoor public spaces and on public transportation.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Poland is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Portugal

Roofs of Lisbon
Photo by Liam McKay on Unsplash

All travelers 12 and older arriving in Portugal from the United States must fill out a passenger locator card within 48 hours of travel and present a negative COVID-19 test result.

The mandatory negative test requirement is a PCR test taken within 72 hours of boarding or a laboratory antigen test taken within 24 hours of boarding for passengers age 12 and older arriving via air in Portugal. This is required even for those who are fully vaccinated but do not have an approved EU Digital COVID Certificate (Portugal currently only accepts certificates from countries that accept the EU Digital COVID Certificate, so not the U.S.), regardless of the point of origin of the flight or the passenger’s nationality.

For entry into the Azores — airports in Ponta Delgada and Terceira — you must show results of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before boarding (or antigen test approved by EU and taken within 48 hours of boarding) or proof of a valid EU Digital COVID Certificate. Alternatively, travelers can present a Declaration of Immunity for those who already had COVID-19.

There are currently no restrictions for entry to Madeira.

More information is available at Visit Portugal and through the U.S. Embassy in Portugal.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Portugal is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Romania

As of March 9, Romania has lifted all COVID-19-related entry restrictions, according to the U.S. Embassy in Romania, and foreign citizens entering Romania no longer need proof of vaccination or a negative test result.

The embassy cautions that regulations continue to change, so before traveling to Romania travelers are advised to consult their airline as well as the Embassy of Romania in Washington, D.C., for entry requirements.

Romania also borders Ukraine, where armed conflict continues.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Romania is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Russia

Travel to Russia at this time is not advised due to geopolitical conflict and the invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces, which has limited international transportation options as airlines have canceled flights to and from the country. In addition, most cruise lines have canceled scheduled port calls on St. Petersburg and even entire Baltic itineraries during the summer 2022 cruise season.

The Russian government requires that all foreign travelers present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result upon arrival, dated within two days prior to arrival in Russia, along with completion of a digital form that must be printed out and presented to customs in Russia.

The U.S. Embassy Moscow advises U.S. citizens not to travel to Russia as the country’s infrastructure has been unsettled by global sanctions imposed since the Ukraine invasion and because Russia is one of the countries “most affected” by COVID-19. Cases and deaths have surged, hitting record highs through mid-February.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Russia is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Serbia

Green mountains
Photo by goxy bgd on Unsplash

All U.S. travelers older than 12 entering Serbia need to provide a negative COVID-19 test, according to the U.S. Embassy in Serbia. If a U.S. citizen’s travel originates in the U.S., they can provide either a negative PCR or antigen test taken within 48 hours.

Most pandemic-related restrictions have gradually been lifted, although social distancing remains in public places and face masks are required on public transit.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Serbia is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Slovakia

According to the U.S. Embassy in Slovakia, travel for tourism or regular business from the United States to Slovakia is permitted, as long as the traveler is vaccinated, or is unvaccinated and has already legally entered the Schengen Area through a country that permits unvaccinated travelers.

The government is expected to lift remaining restrictions in phases.

Per the U.S. Embassy, travelers entering Slovakia are divided into two groups: fully vaccinated and unvaccinated. Under the new requirements, all eligible travelers age 12 and older must register online in advance at korona.gov.sk/ehranica.

As of Feb. 4, travelers eligible to enter Slovakia follow one of two sets of regulations: “fully vaccinated and recently recovered” or “unvaccinated.” Fully vaccinated travelers age 12 and older do not need COVID-19 test results to enter Slovakia and do not need to self-quarantine if they are arriving on direct flights from certain countries, including the U.S. Fully vaccinated means at least 14 days (but not more than nine months) have passed since the second dose of an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna); at least 21 days (but not more than nine months) have passed since vaccination with a single-dose vector vaccine (Johnson & Johnson), or at least 14 days (but not more than nine months) have passed since the first dose of either an mRNA or vector vaccine if a person has also recovered from COVID-19 within the last 180 days.

Vaccinated travelers age 12 and older who arrive in Slovakia by air from countries not on the list need to present negative results of a PCR test less than 72 hours old, in addition to their korona.gov.sk/ehranica registration and vaccination card in Slovak, Czech or English. Vaccination cards from all countries are accepted as long as they are in any of those languages.

Unvaccinated and partially vaccinated travelers must self-quarantine for 10 days as of Oct. 15, 2021, or apply for a COVID-19 test on the fifth day of quarantine, and if the test result is negative the self-quarantine can end.

Slovakia has also divided countries into three groups for border entry requirements: green, red and black. The U.S. is currently a red country. Details can be found here.

The U.S. Embassy notes that there are no direct flights from the U.S. to Slovakia and if you fly into an airport in a neighboring country, you need to comply with all requirements for transiting passengers for the country where the airport is located.

All travelers who arrive in Slovakia by airplane are required to fill out the passenger locator form and to obey all epidemiological measures as ordered by the Public Health Authority of the Slovak Republic. Face masks are mandatory in all indoor spaces.

For details on transiting from neighboring countries by means other than air, check the U.S. Embassy in Slovakia website.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Slovakia is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Slovenia

Church on a lake island
Photo by Arnaud STECKLE on Unsplash

Slovenia has reopened its borders to some EU travelers as well as Americans, but it has a traffic light system of entry requirements. Travelers from countries on the red list, which includes the U.S., must be immunized or fully recovered from COVID-19 to enter for tourism.

The U.S. Embassy in Slovenia confirms Americans are now welcome for tourism, but they must be fully vaccinated (at least seven days past their second dose of Pfizer or 14 days for Moderna and Johnson & Johnson). Children under age 12 accompanying their parents can enter Slovenia without quarantine and do not require proof of a negative test.

Americans visiting Slovenia for essential travel (not tourism) are permitted to do so with proof of vaccination, recovery from COVID-19 or a negative result of a COVID-19 PCR or antigen test taken within 48 hours of travel. Otherwise, travelers are subject to a 10-day quarantine. Additional details are available via the U.S. Embassy.

Museums and shops are open with social distancing restrictions. Restaurants are open and indoor dining is allowed with restrictions. FP2 (N95) face masks or surgical masks are required in indoor public spaces. Proof of vaccination, a negative test (taken within 48 hours if an antigen test and 72 hours if a PCR test) or proof of recovery from COVID-19 between 10 days and six months is required to enter all indoor cultural and sporting events in Slovenia.

The State Department’s advisory for Slovenia is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Spain

Old town cobbled streets
Photo by Sam Williams on Unsplash

As of Sept. 6, 2021, Spain is requiring proof of vaccination for U.S. tourists or a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival for unvaccinated travelers who meet exceptional situations to enter the country.

Visitors arriving for tourism must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before arrival, with the last shot no more than 270 days prior to arrival or a booster shot is required at least 14 days before entry.

Unvaccinated travelers who meet exceptional situations must present results of a negative COVID-19 test (a PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival or an antigen test taken within 48 hours of arrival).

Unvaccinated children under the age of 12 may accompany fully vaccinated adults.

As of June 24, 2021, all U.S. travelers must present a QR code upon arrival in Spain, generated through the Spain Travel Health portal. The Spanish government requires all passengers coming to Spain from outside the country to complete the Health Control Form portion via the Spain Health Portal at least 48 hours prior to departure to the country, including international transits. You may begin to fill out the form at any time prior to your trip, excluding sections that are limited to two days prior to your arrival. Both the form and associated QR code are necessary for entry.

Travelers will also undergo temperature checks upon arrival. The Spanish Ministry of Health maintains a list of countries by risk designation.

Further details on entry requirements can be found here or on the U.S. Embassy in Spain’s website.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Spain is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Sweden

Green pastures by the river
Photo by Jessica Pamp on Unsplash

As of April 1, all COVID-19-related entry restrictions and bans by Sweden will be lifted and traveling to the country will not involve showing proof of vaccination or a negative test.

Since Jan. 21, Sweden had allowed foreign visitors from outside the European Union/European Economic Area as long as they have a vaccination certificate from an approved country, according to the Swedish Border Police. The United States is an approved country — Americans can visit and the CDC vaccination card is accepted.

Some foreign travelers entering Sweden also had to show proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours of entry, even if they are fully vaccinated, depending on whether they are arriving from an approved country, per the U.S. Embassy in Sweden.

Visit the Swedish Border Police website for more details.

As of Feb. 9, Sweden has dropped all domestic COVID-19 restrictions, including the wearing of face masks on public transit and capacity limits and vaccine requirements for restaurants.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Sweden is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Switzerland

The Titlis is a mountain, located on the border between the Swiss cantons of Obwalden and Bern.
Photo by Denis Linine on Unsplash

All Americans had been allowed in for tourism as of June 28, 2021, according to the U.S. Embassy in Switzerland, but now only fully vaccinated U.S. travelers are permitted. Those arriving by airplane must present proof of being fully vaccinated within the past 270 days (or boosted) or having recovered from COVID-19 within the past six months. No additional testing is required.

Unvaccinated Americans can no longer visit for nonessential purposes, but those residing in non-high-risk countries can enter Switzerland by following the required protocols for that country.

Travelers can check their eligibility to enter Switzerland at the country’s online TravelCheck. They can also check with the Swiss Embassy in Washington, D.C.

Most COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted as of Feb. 17, but masks are still required on public transit and inside hospitals, clinics and retirement homes. Additional details are here.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Switzerland is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Levels of COVID-19.

Turkey

Istanbul, Turkey
Photo by Anna Berdnik on Unsplash

Turkey’s international borders are open for travelers from a number of countries, including the U.S., according to the U.S. Embassy in Turkey.

According to the U.S Embassy, arriving passengers age 12 or older must have one of the following:

  • A negative COVID-19 PCR test taken at most 72 hours before arrival.
  • A COVID-19 vaccination certificate showing that they were fully vaccinated at least 14 days before arrival.
  • A COVID-19 recovery certificate issued at most six months before arrival.

Unvaccinated travelers without the required test results will not be allowed to board flights or enter the country.

All travelers 6 years of age and older must also complete a Turkey Entrance Form within 72 hours of their flight (a printout or mobile screenshot of the completed form must be presented before boarding). Full details are on the Turkish Airlines website.

Upon arrival, travelers will be asked to fill out a passenger information form and undergo medical screenings (including a random PCR test), and anyone showing symptoms upon arrival will be tested for coronavirus. Anyone who tests positive will be referred to a Turkish hospital for quarantine and treatment.

The Turkish Ministry of Health announced on March 2 that masks are no longer required outdoors and indoors if air circulation and social distancing are adequate. Restaurants are open without restrictions. PCR tests will not be requested from those who have no symptoms.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Turkey is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Ukraine

Due to heavy and sustained armed conflict with Russia within Ukraine, the government’s state of emergency and COVID-19, any travel to Ukraine at this time is not advised. Those U.S. citizens currently in Ukraine should depart immediately, per the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine.

Prior to the tensions, all U.S. citizens age 12 and older entering Ukraine from the U.S. or another “Red Zone” country were required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR or rapid antigen test result taken within 72 hours of arrival or a document confirming the receipt of a full course of vaccination against COVID-19 with vaccines on the WHO’s list of approved vaccines.

U.S. citizens traveling to Ukraine must also demonstrate that they have medical insurance covering all expenses related to COVID-19 treatment while in Ukraine.

Since Aug. 5, 2021, all foreign tourists over 18 years old who have not been vaccinated must self-isolate for 10 days and monitor such via the Vdoma mobile app, to be shortened by testing negative within three days. Quarantine is not required if you are in the country for less than 72 hours.

Mask-wearing is mandatory on public transportation and in indoor public spaces.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Ukraine is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

United Kingdom

Tower bridge, London
Photo by Susan Q Yin on Unsplash

As of March 18, the United Kingdom has lifted all COVID-19-related entry requirements, so U.S. travelers no longer need to show proof of vaccination, recovery or a negative test to enter. The need to fill out an online passenger locator pass has also ended.

All four nations that comprise the U.K. have separate COVID-19 regulations: England’s are here, Scotland’s are here, Northern Ireland’s are here and Wales’ are here.

Lockdown measures have been fully lifted in England, where pretty much everything has reopened to full capacity, indoors and out.

The CDC has issued a Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19 advisory for the U.K. The U.S. State Department’s advisory is Level 4: Do Not Travel.

Visit the U.S. Embassy in the United Kingdom for regular updates on coronavirus reopenings.

 

Central America

Chichén Itzá, Mérida, Mexico
Photo by Marv Watson on Unsplash

Belize

Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE) reopened on Aug. 15, 2020, and the return of tourism began Oct. 1, 2020, with travel requirements in place. Americans are welcome to visit Belize. As of March 1, travelers who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 no longer need to present a negative pre-travel COVID-19 test or take one on arrival.

All visitors to Belize must complete a customs and immigration form given to them on their flight and unvaccinated travelers age 12 and older must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours or a rapid antigen test (lab-supervised, not one sold for testing at home) taken within 48 hours of boarding their flight or they will be tested on arrival for $50 (only cash is accepted). If a passenger tests positive and is notified by the Belize authorities, they must quarantine at a government-approved hotel.

All visitors will have to stay at one of the country’s full-service hotels or resorts that have received the Belize Tourism Gold Standard Certificate of Recognition. Among the requirements for this designation: The hotels must have private transportation to and from the airport, a restaurant on property and strict cleanliness protocols.

As of Feb. 15, all travelers to Belize are also required to purchase local travel health insurance (cost: $18 per person for a visit lasting up to 21 days) from Belize Travel Insurance.

Tourists are encouraged to remain within established “safe corridors.” Restaurants are open with capacity restrictions as well as for outdoor dining, takeout and delivery. Masks are required in all public spaces.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Belize is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is easing its entry requirements as of April 1. The country began its reopening in September 2020, and on Nov. 1, 2020, began welcoming Americans — without the need for a negative COVID-19 PCR test but with a pre-travel digital health pass required.

To enter Costa Rica through March 31, all foreign nationals must still complete a digital form called Health Pass within 48 hours of travel and all unvaccinated travelers (excluding those under age 18) must have travel insurance that covers accommodations (a minimum of $2,000) in case of quarantine and medical expenses (a minimum of $50,000) due to COVID-19 illness. Travelers are considered fully vaccinated if they have received full doses of the Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson or certain other vaccines.

Mandatory insurance for the unvaccinated and Health Passes to access business establishments will be dropped April 1. Until then, all commercial establishments seeking to operate at full capacity (including hotels, restaurants, bars, casinos and museums) can request anyone older than 18 entering to be fully vaccinated and present a verifiable QR code indicating they are fully vaccinated.

Through March 31, fully vaccinated tourists will receive a QR code upon completion of their Health Pass that they can use as proof of vaccination for entry into these establishments. They can also use a physical vaccine card, such as the CDC vaccine card.

Complete entry and vaccination requirement details are available here.

Most businesses are open and face masks are mandatory in all indoor public settings and outdoors when social distancing isn’t possible. Beaches are open and national parks are welcoming visitors at 100% capacity.

Travelers can also check the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica website for information on coronavirus reopenings.

The U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for Costa Rica is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

El Salvador

The country of El Salvador reopened for commercial flights on Sept. 19, 2020, to Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport (SAL) in San Salvador.

Local businesses are open with no restrictions. According to the U.S. Embassy in El Salvador, as of Nov. 17, 2021, the government of El Salvador removed the COVID-19 test and/or vaccination requirements for entry. Travelers are advised to confirm with their airlines that the airline understands and has implemented this change to avoid complications at their departure airport.

The country has said arriving passengers will face temperature checks. A curfew is currently not in place and there are no quarantine requirements for visitors.

The U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for El Salvador is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Guatemala

Guatemala began slowly reopening to tourism on Sept. 18, 2020, and Aurora International Airport (GUA) is accepting international arrivals. Vaccinated Americans are welcome to visit. The country is, however, prepared to deny entry to any traveler (including U.S. citizens) who have been in certain South African countries over the past 14 days, and/or require those allowed in to quarantine.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala, as of March 11, passengers age 12 and older whose final destination is Guatemala must present one of the following:

  • Evidence of receiving a complete two-dose COVID-19 vaccination course (or one dose for Johnson & Johnson), with the final dose being administered at least two weeks before travel to Guatemala.
  • Proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test from a certified lab conducted no more than three days prior to check-in at the airport or arrival at the land border.

Upon arrival, travelers must pass through health checkpoints and masks are required in some public settings.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Guatemala is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Honduras

Honduras reopened for tourists from all countries on Aug. 17, 2020, with its international airports in operation. Spirit Airlines has resumed service from Fort Lauderdale and Houston, and American Airlines is flying from Miami.

Entering visitors must complete a government registration form and print it as well as present a negative COVID-19 PCR or rapid antigen test result taken within 72 hours of check-in at the airport or their original vaccination certificate indicating they are 14 days or more past completing their vaccination. They will also be required to sign an affidavit and complete customs forms. Masks are required in all public spaces. Updates on guidelines can be found on the U.S. Embassy in Honduras website.

The local health authority maintains the right to grant or deny final approval for entry, based on their determination of risk of COVID-19 from any visiting travelers.

Individuals remaining out after 10 p.m. are required to carry their COVID-19 vaccination card. Bars and nightclubs remain closed and most businesses are required to operate with limited hours and reduced capacity.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Honduras is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Nicaragua

Nicaragua never really shut down. There were never any stay-at-home or social distancing orders and because of these relaxed rules, there have been questions about how many cases Nicaragua actually has. The Nicaraguan government also never officially implemented any travel restrictions, but its borders and airports effectively closed until October 2020; only limited flights have since resumed (on Avianca and Copa) and American Airlines has set tentative dates for resumption of flights beginning in May.

The U.S. Embassy in Nicaragua notes that the Nicaraguan government has yet to officially impose any domestic travel restrictions or national quarantine policies. The embassy also states that U.S. travelers are allowed to enter Nicaragua, and a negative COVID-19 test result taken up to 72 hours of travel is required for entry. Travelers should also be prepared for additional health screenings and may be asked to produce their negative test. Anyone entering Nicaragua from a country with a known yellow fever risk must also show proof of vaccination at least 10 days prior to arrival.

The CDC’s health advisory for Nicaragua is Level Unknown and U.S. State Department’s advisory for Nicaragua is Level 4: Do Not Travel.

Panama

Panama began reopening its airport back in late August 2020 and reopened to tourism on Oct. 12, 2020. The country currently requires all travelers to submit an online health affidavit and unvaccinated travelers must present a negative COVID-19 test.

Travelers who are at least two weeks past being fully vaccinated can show their vaccination certificate to avoid testing. Details are available here.

All unvaccinated travelers arriving in Panama must provide a negative COVID-19 test result taken within the last 72 hours. Any unvaccinated traveler who was unable to obtain a negative coronavirus test within that time frame can take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test at the airport upon arrival (the cost is $50), but if the result is positive they must quarantine for 14 days in a hotel.

Face masks are required in public spaces.

The U.S. Embassy in Panama notes on its website that the CDC has issued a Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19 advisory and the U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory.

 

South America

 

Argentina

Mountain and a lake
Photo by Diogo Hungria on Unsplash

Argentina had one of the world’s strictest travel bans, restricting all international visitors, but that changed as of Nov. 1, 2021, and fully vaccinated foreigners (including Americans) are now able to enter the country. See details here.

All permitted arrivals must present proof of completed vaccination and a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of travel, a negative antigen test taken within 48 hours of travel or a medical discharge certificate indicating recovery from COVID-19 in the past 10-90 days. They must also sign a sworn electronic statement within 48 hours before their arrival and have proof of health insurance valid for COVID-19 treatment in Argentina.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Argentina, minors (under age 18) who are not fully vaccinated are allowed to enter the country and will not have to quarantine. However, the Argentine government recommends that minors do not attend social activities or mass events for a period of seven days starting from the day of arrival.

Some unvaccinated U.S. citizens are allowed to enter Argentina, according to the U.S. Embassy, but only if they are a direct relative of an Argentine citizen or resident (children, parent, spouse or civil union partner) and the purpose of the trip is to visit such family member. Any unvaccinated traveler wishing to visit a family member must obtain prior authorization from the Argentine Consulate in the United States. Unvaccinated U.S. citizens traveling for business must also seek authorization.

Masks are mandatory countrywide in indoor public spaces and transportation.

The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Bolivia

Bolivia had been off-limits to tourists, but the country is now open to visitors, according to the U.S. Embassy in Bolivia, with a notation that travelers should be prepared for additional travel restrictions affecting international travel to be put into effect with little or no advance notice. The U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for Bolivia is now Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

U.S. citizens will need to obtain a tourist visa ($160 and valid for 30 days). Entry rules recently changed and now travelers to Bolivia, regardless of their country of origin, must:

  • Submit a certified negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of their flight (children 5 years old and younger are exempt).
  • Submit a sworn statement of the location of stay within Bolivia.
  • Unvaccinated travelers must quarantine after entering Bolivia (diplomats are exempt) and take another PCR test 72 hours after arrival (the cost of quarantine and testing must be covered by the traveler).
  • Those who do not have permanent residence in Bolivia must have health insurance with coverage for COVID-19 upon entry to Bolivia.

Face masks are required in all public spaces and social distancing rules are in place.

The U.S. Embassy reports that commercial flights have resumed — Boliviana de Aviacion has flights between La Paz and Miami — but travelers should expect that additional restrictions affecting international travel could be put in place with little advance notice.

Brazil

Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
Photo by Agustin Diaz Gargiulo on Unsplash

Brazil has had the most coronavirus cases in South America as well as a COVID-19 variant that caused many countries to ban entry of travelers from Brazil. Cases peaked from March to June 2021, but weekly cases due to the omicron surge hit a record 1.3 million in late January 2022. Cases have since eased but remain elevated and the country recently surpassed 658,000 deaths.

Fully vaccinated tourists are currently welcome and while Brazil no longer requires proof of health insurance for entry, the U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory for Brazil and continues to recommend that all travelers purchase insurance before departing the United States. The CDC’s advisory for Brazil is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

For updates, check the U.S. Embassy in Brazil’s website.

Since Dec. 30, 2020, all travelers age 12 and older arriving in Brazil by air, both tourists and residents, must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours prior to boarding or a negative antigen test taken within 24 hours of boarding and complete a health declaration form. Brazil also requires that anyone age 12 and older present proof of full vaccination (electronic or printed, but proof in the form of just a QR code will not be accepted).

Chile

Chile once again allows fully vaccinated travelers to visit — although all travelers are required to test again upon arrival and quarantine until receiving a negative result.

According to both the U.S. Embassy in Chile and the Chile Tourism website, any noncitizen or nonresident planning to enter Chile after Nov. 1, 2021, is required to do the following:

  • Be fully vaccinated with an approved COVID-19 vaccine (if age 6 and older) and register at mevacuno.gob.cl to obtain a 30-day mobility pass (this process might take more than four weeks).
  • Present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of the boarding time for your flight (for the last leg of your journey if booking a connecting flight).
  • Fill out the Affidavit for Travelers form online, up to 48 hours before departure, in which you will provide your contact and health information and your travel details. The form will issue a QR code as a means of verification.
  • Have medical insurance with coverage of at least $30,000 for COVID-19 related care.
  • Possibly take a random rapid antigen test upon arrival (if older than age 2) and remain at the point of entry until getting a negative result.

LATAM resumed flights between Santiago and the U.S., but before November 2020 they had been used mostly for humanitarian and repatriation flights.

The U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for Chile is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Colombia

Colorful houses
Photo by Saul Mercado on Unsplash

Americans are allowed to travel to Colombia, where international flights resumed on Sept. 21, 2020, and according to the U.S. Embassy in Colombia, that now includes tourists. But as of Dec. 14, 2021, all visitors age 18 and older need to provide proof of full vaccination to enter.

According to the U.S. Embassy, visitors age 18 and older who have had their first vaccine but are not fully vaccinated (or who were fully vaccinated less than 14 days before arriving in Colombia) are required to show a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours or a negative antigen test taken within 24 hours of their departure to Colombia. Unvaccinated travelers age 18 and older are not allowed to enter.

Cruise ship passengers must also present a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours of disembarking in a Colombian port.

Current requirements call for all visitors to complete the online pre-travel registration form “Check-Mig” within one to 24 hours of their flight departure time, wear a mask at all times in public and wash their hands on a consistent basis. Further details on coronavirus reopenings are available here.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Colombia is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Ecuador

Ecuador is again open for Americans, but its entry rules recently changed. As of Feb. 11, all arriving passengers over 3 years old are now required to present a vaccination card showing completion of COVID-19 vaccination (at least 14 days prior to travel) or results of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to boarding their flight, per the Ecuador Tourism website. All visitors must also fill out an online health declaration form.

Requirements for the Galapagos Islands are now the same as entry into Ecuador; travelers who aren’t fully vaccinated can use the same PCR test result if they are transiting directly to the Galapagos upon arrival in Ecuador and their test is still within the required 72-hour time frame at the time of boarding their flight to the Galapagos. If not, travelers need to test again in Ecuador. Travelers to the Galapagos also need a “salvoconducto” (transit control card) from their tour operator and should contact the operator directly for that document.

The U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for Ecuador is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19. Visit the U.S. Embassy in Ecuador website for additional information.

Guyana

According to the U.S. Embassy, Americans can visit Guyana. As of Feb. 11, all travelers age 18 and older must present proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (at least two weeks past their final shot) and all travelers must provide a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours of travel. Passengers must also provide a copy of the test result (in English) and their proof of vaccination to their airline at check-in and to Port Health officials upon arrival.

Restaurants are open and dining is allowed at 100% capacity. Mask wearing in public is no longer mandatory, but is strongly encouraged.

The U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for Guyana is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Paraguay

Paraguay had been under strict quarantine and was closed to tourism. But the government began easing its internal lockdown and on Oct. 2, 2020, reopened Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU). Some regular commercial flights resumed in November 2020.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Paraguay, the country ended its required quarantine for foreigners on Nov. 16, 2020, but as of Jan. 10, 2022, all individuals age 18 and older must present proof of full vaccination and those 12 and older must take an RT-PCR/LAMP/NAAT test 48 hours before boarding their flight or an antigen test 24 hours before boarding.

Within 24 hours before entering the country, travelers must also complete a Ministry of Health form and foreigners not residing in Paraguay or another Mercosur country must have travel/health insurance valid in Paraguay for coverage of COVID-19. In addition, all travelers age 12 and older (except those arriving from Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Bolivia) must take another RT-PCR/LAMP/NAAT test on day five after entering Paraguay.

The U.S. Embassy says that U.S. citizens do not need a visa for visits up to 90 days for tourism or business.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Paraguay is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Peru

Machu Picchu, Peru
Photo by Willian Justen de Vasconcellos on Unsplash

Peru began Phase 4 of its economic reactivation on Oct. 1, 2020, including the resumption of international flights. The U.S. Embassy in Peru reports that direct flights from the U.S. have resumed and Americans are welcome to enter Peru, although testing is required for all unvaccinated visitors to enter the country (as well as most public transportation and businesses) and the country’s health emergency has been extended through Aug. 28. The CDC’s advisory is currently Level 3: High Level of COVID-19 and the State Department’s advisory is Level 3: Reconsider Travel.

All passengers age 12 and older must present proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 48 hours of departure for Peru (children under 12 must only be asymptomatic to board) and complete an online electronic Affidavit of Health and Geolocation Authorization administered by Migraciones.

Peru instituted regional risk metrics of High, Very High and Extreme, based on COVID-19 risk, subject to review every 21 days. KN95 or double face masks are now required to enter indoor spaces and on public transport.

According to the U.S. Embassy, all passengers older than 18 years of age using commercial transportation to travel domestically in Peru by land or air must present proof of vaccination or a negative molecular test taken within 48 hours. As of Feb. 28, everyone age 40 and older must present proof of having had a booster. Additionally, anyone over 18 years old is also not allowed to enter the premises of public businesses without their physical or virtual ID card that proves they have completed, in Peru or abroad, their COVID-19 vaccination schedule. As of Feb. 28, a third booster dose is required for people over 40 years old.

Check the Peru Tourism website for additional updates.

Uruguay

Foreigners and nonresidents had been barred from visiting the country, but according to the U.S. Embassy in Uruguay, Uruguay has reopened to fully vaccinated international travelers as of Nov. 1, 2021. Commercial flights have resumed.

According to the U.S. Embassy, here’s what’s required to enter Uruguay:

  • Vaccinated travelers require proof of vaccination and a negative PCR test within 72 hours before initiating travel. (Minors under age 6 are exempt.)
  • Unvaccinated travelers may only enter Uruguay if they have been granted specific permission because they fall into special exception groups and require a negative PCR test within 72 hours before initiating travel, and an additional PCR test seven days after arrival ($100 cost to the traveler) or they need complete self-quarantine for 14 days. (Minors under age 6 are exempt.)
  • All travelers will be screened for body temperature at the port of entry.
  • Proof of health insurance effective in Uruguay for the duration of your stay is required for all foreign travelers entering Uruguay.
  • A signed declaration of health completed within 48 hours before initiating travel is required. This online form can be found here.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Uruguay is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Venezuela

All international travel to Venezuela had been shut down, but according to the U.S. Embassy in Venezuela, limited flights resumed in early November 2020. According to the Venezuelan Civil Aviation Authority, commercial flights are limited to Mexico, Panama, the Dominican Republic, Turkey, Russia, Spain and Bolivia. Limited flights to Chile, Ecuador, Peru, Cuba and Argentina began in December 2021.

The U.S. State Department, which has been operating its embassy in Venezuela virtually because of unrest in the country and strongly advises against travel to Venezuela, has issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory. Current entry requirements are that U.S. travelers must apply for and obtain a visa and all arriving passengers must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of arrival (but the embassy notes that this could be subject to change). There are health screenings upon arrival, but no quarantine is currently required.

Asia

asian umbrellas
Photo by Andre Benz on Unsplash

Bangladesh

Bangladesh requires international visitors, including those from the United States, to be fully vaccinated to avoid a 14-day home quarantine upon arrival, according to the U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh.

U.S. citizens need a valid visa or “no visa required” seal to enter. Fully vaccinated travelers do not need to present a negative pre-travel test, but those age 12 and older who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of travel to Bangladesh and then undergo a 14-day home quarantine.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Bangladesh is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution and the CDC’s advisory is Level 2: Moderate Level of COVID-19.

Cambodia

Cambodia has reopened for tourism — with no pre-travel testing or quarantine for fully vaccinated travelers, including Americans, according to the U.S. Embassy in Cambodia, The new rules allow travelers to visit any place in the country as long as they follow entry protocols.

Currently, all visitors allowed to enter the country need to be fully vaccinated and present proof of vaccination to avoid a 14-day quarantine designated by the minister of health and a post-arrival PCR test.

All travelers must also obtain a visa to enter the country and are encouraged to purchase COVID-19 health insurance valid in Cambodia.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Cambodia is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level Unknown.

China

Forbidden City, Beijing, China
Photo by Ling Tang on Unsplash

China was where COVID-19 emerged, and the country suspended entry for nearly all foreigners — including all foreign spectators for the Beijing Winter Olympics, which took place Feb. 4-19 — and slashed the volume of international passenger flights to and from the country in March 2020. An outbreak in Xian in December 2021 and January 2022 resulted in a monthlong lockdown of the city’s 13 million residents.

Strict antitravel measures remain in place. Flights have resumed and in September 2020 the State Department eased its travel advisory for China, lowering it from Level 4: Do Not Travel to Level 3: Reconsider Travel, mainly due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws. The CDC’s advisory for China is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

The U.S. Embassy in China says that U.S. citizens with valid resident permits and visas can enter China “under certain conditions.” On Dec. 23, 2020, Chinese authorities increased the requirements for passengers seeking to enter China from the United States. Both COVID-19 PCR testing and IgM antibody tests (with special requirements for individuals vaccinated with Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccines) must be performed in the departure city for the last (direct) flight to China, and a 14-day quarantine after arrival followed by more testing is required. Per the PRC Embassy website, China seems to have added an antigen test requirement as of April 1.

The U.S. Embassy notes that testing upon arrival and for release from quarantine may include blood tests, as well as oral, nasal and anal swab tests.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong, which has been undergoing its worst outbreak of the pandemic, will begin easing some of its travel restrictions on April 1, but will only open for transit passengers and non-Hong Kong residents are still for the most part not allowed entry.

The government in Hong Kong said on Jan. 5 that it was banning all direct flights from eight countries, including the United States, from Jan. 8-20 (now extended to March 31) due to the spread of the omicron variant. The other countries are Australia, Canada, France, India, Pakistan, the Philippines and the United Kingdom.

The government also banned international transit passengers from more than 150 countries from transiting through its airport from Jan. 16 onward. However, transit passengers will now be allowed as of April 1, according to Airport Authority Hong Kong, but there is no fixed timeline for tourism at this time. Transit passengers are international travelers who are only flying into Hong Kong in order to catch another flight. Transit passengers cannot leave the airport.

Currently, all non-Hong Kong residents, with the exception of those who are arriving from mainland China, Macau and Taiwan, are still denied entry.

According to the U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong and Macau, Hong Kong residents returning from any overseas location must follow these rules:

  • If fully vaccinated against COVID-19, they must hold a recognized vaccination record, present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR-based nucleic acid test taken within 72 hours of their arrival in Hong Kong, and undergo compulsory quarantine for seven days at designated places (home, hotel or other accommodation) with self-monitoring in the subsequent seven days and compulsory testing on the third, fifth and 12th day of arrival in Hong Kong (must be conducted at a community testing center). After April 29, some travelers may be exempted from quarantine.
  • If unvaccinated against COVID-19, travelers must present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR-based nucleic acid test taken within 72 hours of their arrival in Hong Kong and undergo compulsory quarantine for 14 days at designated places (home, hotel or other accommodation) with compulsory testing on the third, fifth and 12th day of arrival in Hong Kong (must be conducted at a community testing center).

Complete details on entry requirements and quarantine for travelers are here and here. FAQ on coronavirus reopenings can be found here.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Hong Kong is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

India

India experienced a devastating surge in COVID-19 cases from mid-March 2021 until early summer and overtook Brazil as the country with the second-highest number of infections (43 million as of March 27), after the United States.

Travelers visiting for tourism purposes had been banned from entry, but as of October 2021, India began issuing fresh tourist visas and welcoming select tourists on chartered flights, followed by other travelers on nonchartered flights.

The U.S. Embassy in India notes that travel to India for tourism and other short-term purposes resumed fully on Nov. 15, 2021, for individuals holding tourist or e-tourist visas issued on or after Oct. 6, 2021. Tourist visas issued before October 2021 will not be honored and travelers attempting to enter India using one of these visas are likely to be detained and returned to their point of origin.

According to the U.S. Embassy, as of Feb. 14 all international passengers age 5 and older must upload a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of travel or a vaccination certificate proving full vaccination (India recognizes the CDC vaccination card) to the Air Suvidha portal and submit a self-declaration form detailing their past 14 days of travel 72 hours prior to the start of travel to India. Vaccinated passengers must also upload a copy of their vaccination certificate.

Passengers may be tested again upon arrival (2% will be selected at random) and must self-monitor for 14 days. U.S. citizens who must travel to India are strongly urged to get fully vaccinated before travel and continue to take personal health safety measures to protect themselves.

Some Indian states also require testing upon arrival and/or quarantine for all individuals arriving from outside the state’s borders.

Visit the Indira Gandhi International Airport website for the latest updates to COVID-19 protocols, which vary by state.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for India is currently Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution and the CDC’s is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

Indonesia

Bali, Indonesia
Photo by Jeremy Bishop on Unsplash

Bali is finally open again for tourism, after months of stops and starts.

Indonesia had been reopening gradually in 2020, but in August 2020 the country canceled plans to reopen Bali until a yet-to-be-determined date. That date turned out to be Oct. 14, 2021, for select foreign travelers from 19 countries — but not the United States — who would be allowed to visit Bali for tourism. But without international flights, the process was slow to roll out. International flights to Bali had been expected to resume by late October, but that didn’t begin to happen until early February.

On Feb. 4, Bali reopened to all international visitors. According to the U.S. Embassy in Indonesia, travelers entering through the airport in Bali or the port of Riau Island must be fully vaccinated and show negative results from a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of departure. They are also required to show a hotel or tour package booking for a minimum of four days, take a PCR test upon arrival and await the result in their hotel room. If negative, they can go about their visit, but then they must test again on day three (at an approved commercial lab) and send the result to their hotel, which will then submit it to the task force at the hotel.

Travelers to Bali must also have a short-visit visa or other entry permit (visas upon arrival are again available) and proof of international health insurance with minimum coverage of $25,000 including but not limited to COVID-19-related treatment and hospitalization in Indonesia.

Only Americans currently holding valid Indonesian visas can enter the rest of Indonesia at this time. They must be fully or partially vaccinated and show proof via the PeduliLindungi digital app (children under age 12 are exempt), have insurance that covers coronavirus treatment (up to $100,000) and a hotel reservation for the entirety of their stay, provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of travel, take a PCR test upon arrival and quarantine for 24 hours (if vaccinated or boosted) or seven days (if partially vaccinated) with another PCR test on day three, according to the U.S. Embassy. Proof of full vaccination is also required to board domestic flights.

The embassy says that travel to Indonesia is highly discouraged at this time.

The U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for Indonesia is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Japan

Cherry blossom
Photo by Sora Sagano on Unsplash

Japan, which banned entry by all foreign nationals on Nov. 29, 2021, in response to the omicron variant, began phasing in nontourist entry as of March 1.

Since March 1, according to the U.S. Embassy in Japan, foreign students, technical trainees and business travelers are allowed to enter Japan in limited numbers. The embassy advises travelers who believe they qualify for entry to monitor the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website and the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare’s website, or contact the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate for additional information. Students and technical trainees should contact their educational institutions directly for guidance.

Japan experienced record-high cases into early February.

The Japanese government requires all returning citizens or residents as well as foreign travelers with permission to enter to be fully vaccinated and boosted to avoid quarantine, submit a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of their international departure, test again upon arrival and download several smartphone apps. If they are not boosted or are unvaccinated, they must also quarantine for seven days (or three days with a PCR or antigen test on day three) at home or a government-designated hotel. Details are available here.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Japan is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Kazakhstan

The landlocked Central Asian nation of Kazakhstan has reopened to Americans arriving via its international airports (visa-free for 30 days), according to the U.S. Embassy in Kazakhstan. International flights from Azerbaijan, China, South Korea, Czech Republic, Germany and the United Arab Emirates have resumed. Overland travel into Kazakhstan is limited and requires approval by the government.

A negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours (three days) of arrival is required for all travelers age 5 and older. The U.S. Embassy notes that travelers who enter with an elevated temperature will be isolated in a facility for infectious diseases. Masks are required in all indoor and outdoor public settings.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Kazakhstan is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is COVID-19 Level Unknown.

Kyrgyzstan

The U.S. Embassy in the Kyrgyz Republic says the entry ban for U.S. citizens was lifted in December 2020, but advises citizens to avoid travel to the country due to limited health care services. Those who do visit Kyrgyzstan via airports in Bishkek, Osh and Issyk Kul (land borders remain closed) will need to present either their original vaccine card showing full vaccination against COVID-19 or a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival. If a traveler’s PCR test expires en route due to flight delays or cancellations, they will be required to test again upon arrival at their own expense. Children under age 5 are exempt from testing requirements.

Kyrgyzstan reopened some of its businesses in May 2020 and allowed the national curfew to be lifted. Malls and markets were able to open their doors and public transportation and commercial flights resumed.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Kyrgyzstan is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 2: Moderate Level of COVID-19.

Macau

Most Americans cannot travel to Macau. According to the U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau, only U.S. citizens with Macau, mainland China, Hong Kong or Taiwan residency (or those who have spent the preceding 21 days in mainland China) and have the appropriate visa are permitted to enter Macau.

According to the U.S. Consulate General, travelers who have been in mainland China, Hong Kong or Taiwan 21 days before entry must present proof of a negative COVID-19 nucleic acid test conducted within the past seven days, 48 hours or 24 hours, depending on their point of origin; quarantine also depends on the traveler’s point of origin. Details can be found here. Nonresident Americans who have been outside mainland China or Macau in the past 21 days must prove their entrance into Macau would be in Macau’s public interest.

The U.S.Consulate General also says that as of Jan. 6, individuals entering Macau whose trips originated in high-risk countries (including the U.S.) must present proof of three consecutive negative COVID-19 tests (each at least 24 hours apart) taken within five days of travel. They must also quarantine for 28 days.

See links on the U.S.Consulate General website for full details.

All outbound travelers from Macau must also test negative within seven days of departure.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Macau is Level 4: Do Not Travel but the CDC’s advisory is Level Unknown and it recommends avoiding travel there.

Malaysia

Sunset view from Trader's Hotel towards KLCC
Photo by Esmonde Yong on Unsplash

Malaysia is still not allowing most tourists. In fact, travel restrictions on all foreign nationals — with very limited exceptions for certain long-term pass holders and preapproved short-term business travelers — have been extended until April 1, when new entry protocols will be announced.

However, according to the U.S. Embassy in Malaysia, some international tourists traveling to Langkawi Island may now participate in the International Tourism Pilot Project, which exempts vaccinated, preapproved travelers booking travel through licensed tour operators from quarantine restrictions. See the U.S. Embassy website for details and links.

Those who are permitted to enter must use a portal called MyTravelPass to request permission and present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within two days of departure for Malaysia. Those not covered under the Tourism Pilot Project or other exemption plans must pay for a five-day quarantine (fully vaccinated and boosted travelers), seven-day quarantine (fully vaccinated travelers) or 10-day quarantine (unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travelers) at an assigned location with testing on day four, five or eight of quarantine, respectively.

As of Dec. 27, 2021, all travelers arriving at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) must also pay for a mandatory arrival COVID-19 test in advance through a website designated by the Malaysian government to receive a QR code. Travelers are also required to download the MySejahtera app and wear a wristband.

According to the U.S. Embassy, the country has maintained movement restrictions for unvaccinated people and has entered Phase 1 of a four-phase National Recovery Plan.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Malaysia is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

The Maldives

Olhuveli Island, Maldives
Photo by Jennvmy_ on Unsplash

Travelers to the Maldives are no longer required to present a pre-travel negative test as of March 14, when the island nation’s public health emergency was revoked. However, travelers (with the exception of arriving tourists and returning residents of the Maldives) are encouraged to take a PCR test between three and five days after arrival.

According to the Maldives Immigration website, travelers do not need to be vaccinated for entry. However, all international visitors, including Americans, must still complete a health declaration within 48 hours prior to travel. A free 30-day tourist visa will be issued upon arrival. Further details can be found here.

The latest update on resort openings can be found here.

Emirates is offering connections through Dubai from major global cities including Chicago. Etihad resumed flights from Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, to the Maldives starting in July 2020. Turkish Airlines also started flights in July 2020.

Additional info can be found on the U.S. Mission to the Maldives website. The U.S. State Department’s advisory for the Maldives is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Mongolia

Mongolia lifted its restrictions on outbound and inbound travel in June 2021 and ended pre-travel testing requirements in March 2022, according to the U.S. Embassy in Mongolia.

U.S. citizens are allowed to visit, according to the U.S. Embassy, and do not need a visa for a stay of under 90 days (but for stays of more than 30 days, travelers are required to register and failure to do so will incur a fine of $100-$300).

Pe-travel COVID-19 testing requirements were recently dropped and quarantine was eliminated as of Jan. 13.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Mongolia is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Nepal

Stupa, namche Bazaar, Nepalr, Nepal
Photo by Sebastian Pena Lambarri on Unsplash

Nepal, which had remained mostly closed to tourism until early 2021, has fully reopened and as of March 10, all travelers arriving by air may now receive on-arrival visas without quarantine (subject to negative testing results), regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination status.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Nepal, changes to restrictions and requirements can be enacted with little notice. With the March 10 changes, travelers can enter with proof of full vaccination and those who are not fully vaccinated can enter by presenting a negative result of a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of boarding their flight for Nepal.

For more information, check the Embassy of Nepal in Washington, D.C., or Nepal’s Department of Immigration.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Nepal is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 2: Moderate Level of COVID-19.

Pakistan

Pakistan has reopened for Americans, however, the U.S. State Department’s Level 3 advisory says, “Reconsider travel to Pakistan due to terrorism and sectarian violence. Some areas have increased risk.” The CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 2: Moderate Level of COVID-19.

According to the U.S. Embassy, vaccinated individuals can enter Pakistan with proof of full vaccination, while unvaccinated individuals over the age of 12 must present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of boarding their flight.

Americans wishing to travel to Pakistan will need a visa. They will also need to download and install the Pass Track app. Guidelines can be found here.

There are few remaining COVID-19 restrictions and there is no curfew at this time.

The Philippines

Maligcong, Bontoc, Mountain Province, Philippines
Photo by Michael Rivera 🇵🇭 on Unsplash

According to the U.S. Embassy in Manila, the Philippines is now granting entry to fully vaccinated visitors from countries that are permitted visa-free travel for up to 30 days, including the United States.

Fully vaccinated travelers who have completed their vaccination series more than 14 days prior to travel will no longer be subject to facility-based quarantine upon arrival. Travelers must also present negative COVID-19 result from a PCR test taken within 48 hours (or negative antigen test taken within 24 hours) of departure from their country of origin, must have health insurance valid in the Philippines for COVID-19 care up to $35,000 and must self-monitor for symptoms for seven days after arrival, reporting to local government authorities if they begin to exhibit COVID-19 symptoms.

Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travelers are not allowed entry into the Philippines. Travelers who are unable to present acceptable proof of vaccination will be subject to quarantine in a government facility until the release of a negative RT-PCR test taken on the fifth day, followed by home quarantine until the 14th day.

Children below the age of 12 are exempt from the vaccination requirements.

Details can be found here. Also check the Philippines Airlines website.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for the Philippines is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 2: Moderate Level of COVID-19.

Singapore

Singapore at Night
Photo by Mike Enerio on Unsplash

As of April 1, all fully vaccinated travelers and children under 12 will be able to enter Singapore quarantine-free via any flight. Details can be found here.

Singapore, which has been gradually opening to tourists since October 2021, made it easier for those who visit as of Feb. 22, when passengers arriving at Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) no longer needed to take a PCR test or isolate upon arrival. Instead, travelers need to only take one supervised self-swab at an official testing center within 24 hours of arrival in the city-state.

With the April 1 changes, travelers must complete an electronic SG Arrival Card, upload their vaccination certificate within 72 hours of travel and, if arriving via air, present a negative result of a COVID-19 PCR or antigen test taken within two days of departure for Singapore. They must also install and activate the Trace Together mobile app and have a minimum of 30,000 Singapore dollars in travel health insurance.

Singapore had remained mostly closed for short-term visitors (including tourism) until Oct. 19, 2021, when fully vaccinated travelers from eight countries (including the United States) were once again allowed to enter via the Vaccinated Travel Lane program.

Until March 31, fully vaccinated visitors must apply online for a vaccinated travel pass, have stayed in a VTL country over the past seven days and present a digital, verifiable vaccination certificate with a QR code as well as a negative result from a PCR or antigen test taken within two days of departure to Singapore. They then must go directly to their hotel or home and take a supervised self-swab at a designated center within 24 hours of arrival. Travelers must also have a minimum of 30,000 Singapore dollars in travel insurance and use the TraceTogether app for contact tracing. Information is here.

Details on Singapore’s Safe Travel Lane requirements (ending March 31) can be found here. And the process for U.S. tourists, including the accepted Smart Health Cards to validate vaccination, can be found here.

See the Singapore Airlines website and U.S. Embassy in Singapore website for additional information.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Singapore is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

South Korea

nights of rage
Photo by Sava Bobov on Unsplash

South Korea, which has had strict quarantine requirements for two years, is pulling back on restrictions despite soaring case numbers through late March. As of April 1, fully vaccinated travelers can register with South Korea’s Q-code website to obtain a QR code before travel that will be used to enter the country and skip the seven-day quarantine.

Foreign visitors must have received a two-dose vaccine, or the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine, at least two weeks before their trip to be considered fully vaccinated. Proof of a booster shot is required if it has been more than 180 days since vaccination. The Q-code system will ask for information such as your passport number, departure country, airline, phone number and vaccine records.

Foreign visitors arriving in South Korea by plane will also need to have a negative PCR test taken no more than 48 hours before departure.

Americans have been able to go to South Korea, but a mandatory seven-day quarantine made it undesirable for most travelers. And as of September 2021, all U.S. citizens visiting South Korea need to get K-ETA approval before traveling. They must also download a self-diagnosis mobile app and answer daily questions.

Additional details are available on the U.S. Embassy in South Korea website (which has info for transit passengers) and on the Korean Embassy in the U.S. website.

Cases have been surging in South Korea and the U.S. State Department’s advisory is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4:  Very High Level of COVID-19.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka reopened to limited international flights on June 1, 2021, after a 10-day ban to control a surge of cases in the country. Sri Lanka had been closed to tourists since March 2020, but reopened its two international airports — Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) and Mattala International Airport (HRI) — in early 2021 and has begun to allow tourism to resume.

Travelers who can visit — which, according to the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka, again includes Americans for tourism purposes — must be fully vaccinated to avoid pre-travel testing and limited movement (as of March 1); unvaccinated travelers must be tested (a COVID-19 PCR test) in their own country within 72 hours of their flight and remain in a “Tourism Bio Bubble” for seven nights/eight days and undergo testing ($40 per test). The U.S. Embassy notes that those who are allowed in require a valid visa and an Electronic Travel Authorization. As of Sept. 15, 2021,  proof of vaccination is required to enter public spaces, including hotels.

As of Jan. 1, all visitors to Sri Lanka (whether vaccinated or unvaccinated) must purchase COVID-19 insurance, currently set at $12 per month.

Visit the Sri Lanka Tourism website and the  Embassy of Sri Lanka in the United States COVID-19 page for updates.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Sri Lanka is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Taiwan

Taiwan banned international tourism as of March 19, 2020. That ban remains in place, but as of March 7, 2022, the country is allowing the entry of international business travelers. They must apply for a special entry permit.

Aside from those entering for the purposes of business visits, investment, the fulfillment of contractual obligations and employment, only those with a valid Alien Resident Certificate or a special entry permit are allowed entry.

All arrivals must show a negative PCR test taken within two calendar days of arrival and are subject to a 10-day quarantine (reduced from 14 days as of March 7) in a hotel, home or a combination thereof. For additional information see the American Institute in Taiwan’s website.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Taiwan is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

Tajikistan

Tajikistan never did have a full lockdown, and most businesses, hotels and restaurants reopened on June 15, 2020. The U.S. State Department has a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory in effect for Tajikistan related to both COVID-19 and the potential for terrorism and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level Unknown (with advice to avoid travel there).

According to the U.S. Embassy in Tajikistan, all Americans need a Tajik visa for entry (as well as government permission in advance if seeking to enter via a land border) and must show results of a negative COVID-19 PCR test issued within 72 hours of arrival when boarding flights to Dushanbe International Airport (DYU); they also may be subject to PCR testing at the airport upon arrival. Travelers must provide contact information and will be allowed to leave the airport, but if the result is positive for COVID-19, travelers will be transferred to a government quarantine facility.

The U.S. Embassy also notes that access to medical care in the country may be limited and that “the Government of Tajikistan frequently adjusts its entry and exit requirements in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and changes to policy are not immediately made available to the public.” An unexpired visa is also required to leave Tajikistan.

Thailand

Traveling on motorbike in norther thailand we came across these amazing sculptural temples and buildings.
Photo by Mathew Schwartz on Unsplash

After suspending its Test and Go program in December 2021 due to the omicron variant, Thailand has resumed its quarantine waiver for vaccinated travelers as of Feb. 1 (and for travelers from all countries as of March 1), although a one-day stay in a government-designated hotel after testing upon arrival is required.

All travelers to Thailand are required to present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of their flight (or a medical certificate of recovery from COVID-19 within 14 to 90 days), have a fully paid SHA Extra+/AQ hotel reservation and PCR test reservation for day one, and have travel health insurance coverage no less than $50,000.

Under the revamped Test and Go guidelines, travelers will have to obtain a free Thai Pass from the government, take a PCR test on arrival and then test again five days later. Travelers will then have to isolate themselves in an approved hotel for at least one day following the first test while awaiting their results, and then use a self-test kit to test on day five. Travelers are also able to stay at different hotel locations for the day one and day five tests.

As of Jan. 11, travelers from all countries are also welcome to enter Thailand by participating in the “Phuket Sandbox” program and the new programs in Krabi, Phang-Nga and Surat Thani (only Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan and Ko Tao), where testing and isolating are not required.

Details and updates can be found here.

Since April 1, 2021, U.S. passport holders have not been required to obtain a visa for a tourist visit of up to 45 days in Thailand. Thailand began a phased reopening for vaccinated tourists without the need to quarantine, starting with Phuket Sandbox on July 1, 2021, then with the Samui Plus program.

The most recent updates on travel to Thailand by Americans can be found here.

For further information on visiting Thailand, check the U.S. Embassy in Thailand’s website and the Royal Thai Embassy.

The U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for Thailand is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Turkmenistan

According to the U.S. Embassy in Turkmenistan, U.S. citizens are allowed to visit the country, but the U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory and the CDC’s advisory is Level Unknown (with advice not to travel there). In addition, the country’s suspension of all international flights has been extended until further notice.

Turkmenistan claims it doesn’t have any cases of COVID-19, but the embassy casts doubt on those claims. Any private U.S. citizen seeking to enter Turkmenistan will be required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test and a serology certificate confirming the presence of antibodies, both taken within 48 hours of departure from the U.S. or other point of origin. All travelers will also undergo a PCR test upon arrival ($44), followed by a 21-day quarantine in a government facility. Another PCR test ($44) is required to exit quarantine.

The U.S. Embassy notes: “The government of Turkmenistan can and does change quarantine requirements and arrival procedures for private citizens with little advance notice.”

Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is open to Americans. U.S. citizens need a visa for entry, and either a vaccination certificate or a negative COVID-19 PCR test from an approved lab (see the U.S. Embassy in Uzbekistan website) is required within 48 hours of arrival. Tourists face health screenings and those arriving via a land border will be required to take a rapid antigen test even if they have the required negative pre-travel test. Passengers must wait for results and if they test positive, they will be taken to a health facility for treatment and quarantine.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Uzbekistan is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level Unknown (with advice not to travel there).

Vietnam

Farm between two valleys
Photo by Ruslan Bardash on Unsplash

After almost two years, Vietnam has declared it is reopening to foreign tourists.

As of March 15, officials have lifted all restrictions, including mandatory quarantine requirements for both foreigners and Vietnamese nationals entering the country. Travelers now only have to show a valid negative COVID-19 test (a PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel or an antigen test taken within 24 hours of travel) upon arrival to be allowed into Vietnam. Visitors must still monitor their own health during the first 10 days of their stay, and notify local health authorities if they come down with symptoms that could be related to COVID-19.

Vietnam’s decision to reopen comes at a time when its reported COVID-19 cases are rising, although officials say most patients have only reported mild symptoms that don’t require hospitalization.

Foreign tourists were originally banned from entering Vietnam as of March 22, 2020, and it had been uncertain when the Vietnamese government would lift this restriction. However, according to the U.S. Embassy in Vietnam, the Vietnamese government on Dec. 10, 2021, announced plans to resume regular international flights starting in January 2022 on a pilot basis to and from several territories, including Beijing/Guangzhou, Tokyo, Seoul, Taiwan, Bangkok, Singapore, Laos, Cambodia, San Francisco and Los Angeles.

With the new tourism resumption plan, incoming tourists are required to have proof of vaccination or recovery from COVID-19 and a negative test result certificate issued within 24 hours (rapid antigen test) or 72 hours (PCR) of departure. Travelers also need to pay an insurance fee of approximately $30.

There was some initial confusion over entry requirements and the U.S. Embassy suggests checking with the Vietnam Embassy in the U.S. for specific details on policies.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Vietnam is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Oceania

 

Australia

Sydney, Australia
Photo by Dan Freeman on Unsplash

Australia had remained closed to most foreign visitors for the past two years, although that changed on Feb. 21, when the country finally reopened to fully vaccinated international visitors — just as its omicron wave began to subside. In early February, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison originally said he would like to see the country begin to reopen by April.

Through April 16, all international arrivals in Australia, who also need to apply for a visa, must be fully vaccinated and show a negative COVID-19 test result from either a PCR or rapid antigen test before boarding their flight. PCR tests must be taken within 72 hours before the flight’s scheduled departure, while rapid antigen tests must be taken within 24 hours. But as of April 17, pre-travel testing for entry will no longer be required. The other big news is that Australia will also reopen to cruise ships on that date as well.

Eligible, fully vaccinated visitors will still be required to complete an Australia Travel Declaration at least 72 hours before departure, which includes a declaration regarding their vaccination status. They will also be asked to upload their vaccination certificate. And since states control quarantine requirements, some travelers may be required to quarantine upon arrival.

Unvaccinated travelers who qualify for a travel exemption application will be required to quarantine at a hotel.

Details can be found here.

Check the U.S. Embassy in Australia website for details on restrictions and exemptions for entry.

Qantas has resumed international flights between Sydney and Los Angeles, London and other cities. American, Delta and United are also offering flights from the U.S. to Australia.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Australia is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

French Polynesia

After easing border restrictions on June 9, 2021, the Islands of Tahiti on Aug. 13 restricted quarantine-free tourism to fully vaccinated visitors from certain countries, including the United States.

To travel to French Polynesia, vaccinated travelers must have had a booster shot (if your last dose was more than nine months before your travel date), complete an online health registration within six to 30 days of departing for the islands and as of Dec. 30, 2021, submit a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) taken within 24 hours prior to departure.

Travelers must also complete and print an online sworn statement and bring proof of vaccination to the islands. Unvaccinated children age 12 and under can enter when accompanied by a vaccinated parent or legal guardian, but minors over age 12 who are unvaccinated must have a compelling reason to visit and receive approval.

Unvaccinated travelers from the U.S. can enter French Polynesia, but they must present a compelling reason to travel that is approved by the Tahitian government, specifically related to health, business or family. They must follow all the same procedures as vaccinated travelers, but also must self-isolate for seven days.

Current updates can be found here. Additional information is available on the Air Tahiti Nui website.

Additionally, all incoming travelers (residents excluded) must provide proof of international travel insurance or agree to assume responsibility for all costs while in Tahiti. Luckily, some credit card travel insurance satisfies this requirement. Travelers could use a card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card to pay for their airfare and hotel, then provide a copy of the card’s Guide to Benefits as proof of coverage.

Mandatory mask-wearing was lifted as of March 14, but is still required on public transportation. Travelers exhibiting symptoms during their stay were told to self-report and self-isolate in their room until further instruction from local emergency operators.

If you’re itching to travel to French Polynesia, there are lots of options for getting there. Be sure to check out our guide on the best ways to get to Tahiti using points and miles. The destination is home to some famous hotels, such as the Conrad Bora Bora Nui and the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for French Polynesia is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Fiji

Overhead of the Wicked Walu at the Warwick Resort in Fiji
Photo by Prem Kurumpanai on Unsplash

Fiji began allowing fully vaccinated travelers from select countries, including the United States, for tourism as of Dec. 1, 2021. The island nation had a strict lockdown in place since March 2020, with no tourism allowed for more than 18 months.

Fiji will reopen to fully vaccinated travelers from all countries on April 7. Currently, according to Fiji Tourism, the country allows quarantine-free travel to fully vaccinated travelers from Travel Partner countries, which are: American Samoa, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Cambodia, Canada, Cayman Islands, Chile, People’s Republic of China, Cook Islands, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Federated States of Micronesia, Finland, France, French Polynesia, Germany, Greece, Guam, Hong Kong SAR, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kiribati, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Macao SAR, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mongolia, Morocco, Nauru, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Netherlands, Norfolk Islands, Northern Mariana Islands, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Palau, Panama, Portugal, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Samoa, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Tonga, Turkey, Tuvalu, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, United States of America, U.S. Virgin Islands, Vanuatu, Wallis and Futuna.

To enter Fiji, fully vaccinated travelers age 18 and older — AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, Novavax, Sinovac, Sinopharm, Covaxin and Sputnik V vaccines are accepted — and their accompanying minors age 12 and older need to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken two calendar days before boarding their flight or a rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours of their flight’s departure. Minors, when accompanied by a vaccinated adult, do not need to be vaccinated and children 11 and younger are exempt from testing.

Any traveler who tested positive within 30 days of travel to Fiji and has recovered can provide proof of an isolation period served by a credible institution or a fit-to-fly certificate/letter from a medical practitioner. The certificate/letter exempts them from testing requirements pre- (PCR two days ahead of travel) and post-arrival (rapid antigen on day two) in Fiji.

Through April 6, all travelers must also have booked a three-night stay at a Care Fiji Committed accommodation and download the careFiji app to be able to enter/access businesses once in Fiji. Travelers must also have travel/health insurance valid for COVID-19 care in Fiji and take a rapid antigen test at their resort two days after arrival.

As of April 7, travelers no longer need to book a Care Fiji stay, but must pre-book a rapid antigen test to be conducted within 24 hours after arrival.

Check for updates here and visit the U.S. Embassy in Fiji website for additional information. The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Fiji is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

New Zealand

Lupines in sunshine
Photo by Aneta Foubíková on Unsplash

New Zealand has been praised for its early and tough restrictions that kept cases of coronavirus low in the country. In fact, New Zealand is being hailed as one of the shining stars of dealing with COVID-19 — although cases recently reached record highs in February and early March. Americans are not yet allowed to visit, but the New Zealand government recently announced that U.S. tourists will be able to visit as of May 1 at 11:59 p.m.

The country’s government in early February announced a five-step reopening plan that began with fully vaccinated New Zealand citizens living in Australia being allowed to return home as of Feb. 27 and isolate for 10 days at home. New Zealand citizens living in all other countries followed on March 4.

Step 4, which was set to take place sometime in July, has been changed to May 1 at 11:59 p.m. (so effectively May 2), when all visitors who can normally travel visa-free to New Zealand (which includes Americans) can enter for tourism. All foreign travelers age 17 and older need to be fully vaccinated. Details can be found here.

Anyone allowed to travel to New Zealand must provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken 48 hours prior to departure or a rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours of departure, but will no longer be required to self-isolate upon arrival.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for New Zealand is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Middle East

 

World Trade Center, Manama, Bahrain
Photo by Charles-Adrien Fournier on Unsplash

Bahrain

According to the U.S. Embassy in Bahrain, U.S. travelers have been permitted to receive a visa upon arrival and enter Bahrain since Sept. 4, 2020. As of Feb. 20, Bahrain no longer requires pre-travel testing or testing upon arrival for COVID-19, no matter a traveler’s vaccination status, per the Bahrain airport website.

Travelers must download the BeAware Bahrain app in advance of travel.

Face masks are mandatory in all indoor public spaces and indoor dining has returned to full capacity.

The U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for Bahrain is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Israel

Americans have been able to visit Israel if fully vaccinated, and as of March 1, even unvaccinated travelers can enter the country.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Israel, as of March 1, unvaccinated travelers may enter Israel by following the same protocols as vaccinated travelers. All arriving passengers must fill out an inbound passenger statement within 48 hours of their flight’s departure and have medical insurance valid in Israel. Everyone over the age of 2 traveling to Israel must also present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of their flight’s departure. All arriving travelers will also be PCR tested (at their own expense) upon arrival and must undergo isolation for 24 hours.

Syria

U.S. travelers are not able to enter Syria at this time. The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Syria is Level 4: Do Not Travel.

United Arab Emirates

Golden hour at the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi
Photo by Ryan Miglinczy on Unsplash

The United Arab Emirates is open to tourism and Americans are welcome — without the need to test or quarantine if fully vaccinated.

As of Feb. 26, the UAE no longer requires PCR tests for fully vaccinated or recovered visitors. The country posted the new relaxed guidelines on the National Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. The new policy says vaccinated passengers only need to show a vaccine certificate with an approved QR code. The CDC vaccination card issued in the U.S. does not have a QR code, so a negative test is still required.

Unvaccinated travelers can enter the UAE, but they “have to present an approved negative PCR test result received within 48 hours of departure or a QR code-accompanied certificate of recovery from a COVID-19 infection obtained within one month from the date of travel.”

Tourist visas (required for U.S. travelers) are being issued in all emirates, including Abu Dhabi. In addition, Abu Dhabi has dropped its quarantine mandate for all international travelers regardless of vaccination status. Fully vaccinated visitors have been able to bypass the self-isolation requirement since last September. Because it has dropped the quarantine, Abu Dhabi is also eliminating its “green list” system, which allowed citizens of certain countries to avoid quarantine upon arrival. Details are available here.

For complete information on traveling to Dubai, check the Emirates website.

Fully vaccinated travelers entering Abu Dhabi from Dubai or another emirate need to download the ICA app, complete the registration, and then download the Al Hosn app, which is the Green Pass gateway to all of Abu Dhabi’s attractions. Details are available here.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for the UAE is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Yemen

The U.S. State Department has maintained a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory on Yemen for some time, even before COVID-19 became a threat, due to issues with terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, kidnapping, armed conflict and landmines. The embassy in Sanaa suspended operations in early 2015, and U.S. citizens in Yemen will not be able to rely on emergency services from the U.S. government.

All travelers entering on U.S. documents are required to have a visa from the Yemeni government before entering the country, and passports must have an additional six months’ validity from the date of departure.

Africa

Sunset tree in Kenya Safari, Africa
Photo by Damian Patkowski on Unsplash

 

Botswana

According to the U.S. Embassy in Botswana, fully vaccinated Americans are permitted to enter without testing; those who are not vaccinated must provide the result of a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival — and then submit to a COVID-19 vaccination at the port of entry.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Botswana is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Democratic Republic of Congo

The Democratic Republic of Congo reopened its borders in August 2020. It is perhaps best known for Virunga National Park, which reopened on April 1, 2021, and for being home to the mountain gorilla. Important to know: Conflict is ongoing in the DRC and six park rangers were ambushed and killed by militia inside the park in January 2021. In February 2021, the Italian ambassador to the DRC was killed along with two others in an ambush.

According to the U.S. Embassy, as of Feb. 14, 2022, the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has updated its COVID-19 restrictions. Fully vaccinated travelers no longer require a COVID-19 test to enter DRC, provided they have proof of vaccination. The same measure applies to fully vaccinated visitors traveling within the DRC. A negative PCR test is still required to depart the DRC, regardless of vaccination status.

All unvaccinated international travelers age 11 and older must arrive with proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within three days of their departure to DRC. Upon arrival, unvaccinated travelers age 11 and older must take a second COVID-19 test at the airport. Travelers should register their information and pay for the test at inrbcovid.com before they begin their travel. The cost of the required test is $45. After testing at the airport, arriving passengers must self-quarantine until they receive a negative test result, usually within 24 hours.

Americans need a visa to visit as well as a WHO card with proof of yellow fever vaccination and proof of health and medical evacuation insurance valid in the DRC. Unvaccinated travelers may also need to present a negative COVID-19 test taken within seven days for travel between certain provinces.

Masks are required in public indoor and outdoor spaces.

To exit the DRC, all travelers age 11 and older, no matter their vaccination status, must pay for and present a negative COVID-19 test from an approved lab taken within three days of travel ($30), but to reenter the U.S., the test now needs to be taken within one day of travel.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for the Democratic Republic of Congo is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

Egypt

International tourism resumed in Egypt in July 2020 and the country is now open for Americans, but the U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19. There are also some important things to know before you go.

Americans will need a tourist visa available on arrival or before arrival via online enrollment. There are no quarantine requirements, although you will need a negative COVID-19 PCR test with a QR code. According to the U.S. Embassy in Egypt, travelers over the age of 6, including Egyptians, must present results of tests taken within 72 hours prior to departure for Egypt, but passengers traveling from Japan, China, Thailand, North America, South America, Canada, London, Paris and Frankfurt will be allowed to provide a test certificate performed at a maximum of 96 hours prior to flight departure. You also have to have the physical (printed/paper) test results. No digital documents are being accepted. Proof of health insurance valid in Egypt is also required.

The U.S. Embassy website also notes that it is reported that the government of Egypt will also allow travelers to enter with proof of a WHO-approved COVID-19 vaccination instead of a negative test. However, the vaccination certificate must comply with the rules of the issuing country and contain a QR code. Note: Most U.S. vaccination cards, including those issued by the CDC, do not include the QR code required by the government of Egypt, and, as a result, most U.S. vaccination cards are not accepted by Egyptian authorities.

Anyone not following mask requirements may be subject to fines or prosecution and restaurants are operating at 70% capacity.

Ghana

Ghana’s Accra Kotoka International Airport (ACC) reopened for regular international service on Sept. 1, 2020, although the country’s land and sea borders remain closed. According to the U.S. Embassy in Ghana, Americans are allowed to enter the country and all passengers arriving by air must be fully vaccinated (if age 18 or older) and present a negative COVID-19 PCR test conducted by an accredited laboratory in the country of origin not more than 72 hours prior to departure.

In addition, upon arrival, each traveler age 5 and older must undergo a COVID-19 test conducted at the airport. There is a $150 fee per person with results usually available in 30 minutes. Travelers can pay the fee online before departure or pay upon arrival at the airport in Accra. Travelers who test negative do not need to quarantine; those who test positive will be required to undergo a seven-day quarantine at a government health facility or isolation center and have a repeat test 24 hours later.

Ghana’s Ministry of Public Health has mandated the use of face masks in public.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Ghana is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 2: Moderate Level of COVID-19.

Kenya

Kenya reopened to tourism on Aug. 1, 2020, and Americans are currently welcome to visit. The U.S. State Department’s travel advisory is now Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

Travel in and out of Nairobi is allowed and all visitors need to obtain an e-visa, fill out a mandatory online health form (to obtain a QR code for scanning upon arrival) and have a valid vaccination certificate or (if unvaccinated and over age 5) a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure for Kenya, according to the U.S. Embassy in Kenya. Both vaccination and test results documents must be uploaded prior to travel into the Global Haven portal. Passengers also face a health screening on arrival and must take a rapid antigen test ($30).

Americans are currently exempt from quarantine requirements. Entry requirements can be found here.

The Kenya Ministry of Health launched the Trusted Travel Initiative; at this time, the QR code is for arriving passengers and the TT code is for those departing. Travelers can get the TT code with their test results from an accredited lab at any major hospital. Everyone departing Kenya needs to present a negative result of a COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of departure (but the time frame to enter the U.S. is now a test taken within one day).

A mandatory face mask requirement while in public remains in effect and proof of vaccination is required for admission to public spaces. There is no longer a  nationwide curfew.

Malawi

According to the U.S. Embassy in Malawi, Americans are allowed to enter and as of Dec. 6, 2021, the government of Malawi requires a visa and a negative PCR COVID-19 test no older than 72 hours on the day of arrival or departure to both enter and exit the country.

As of Dec. 10, 2021, the government also requires a valid COVID-19 full vaccination certificate to enter Malawi. The U.S. Embassy says that arriving travelers unable to show a vaccination certificate at the point of entry shall be expected to access COVID-19 vaccines for free at the point of entry before being allowed to enter or reenter Malawi. Travelers unable to produce a valid immunization certificate and who refuse to access the vaccines offered at the point of entry will be required to undergo institutional quarantine for 10 days at their cost. At this time, the embassy says it does not have further information on the cost or location of the institutional quarantine. Travelers will not have a choice in where they are placed.

Details are also available on the Malawi Tourism website.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Malawi is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 2: Moderate Level of COVID-19.

Mauritius

According to the U.S. Embassy in Mauritius, the island nation dropped its pre-travel testing requirement as of March 12 — but there are different rules for vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers.

Fully vaccinated visitors must have health insurance that covers COVID-19 and are able to explore the island freely but must take a test upon arrival at their hotel.

Unvaccinated guests must also have health insurance, but they must self-isolate at the accommodation of their choice for seven days, with a test upon arrival and an antigen test on day seven, after which they can explore the island on day eight.

Details of travel requirements and travel alerts for Mauritius can be found here.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Mauritius is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

Morocco

Morocco’s Foreign Ministry announced a ban on all air travel to the country beginning Nov. 29, 2021, in response to the spread of the omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus; the ban was extended before the country reopened again to foreign visitors on Feb. 7.

Entry requirements listed by the Moroccan National Tourist Office include:

  • A vaccination certificate or pass for anyone age 12 and older (the CDC card is accepted).
  • A negative PCR test taken within 48 hours of the date of entry (children age 6 and under are exempt).
  • Completion of a health form.
  • A rapid antigen test upon arrival.

The Moroccan government requires proof of vaccination to enter most private and public establishments, including hotels, restaurants, cafes, gyms, hammams, grocery stores and public modes of transportation. According to the U.S. Embassy in Morocco, “If vaccinated in Morocco, U.S. citizens should carry the vaccine pass (“pass vaccinal”) issued by the Moroccan government and available at the Ministry of Health vaccination website. If vaccinated in the United States, we recommend U.S. citizens carry their white CDC card as proof of vaccination.”

Flights were allowed to resume on Feb. 7 to and from Morocco on Royal Air Maroc, between New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and Washington, D.C.’s Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Casablanca’s Mohammed V Airport (CMN). Masks are mandatory in flight and in all public spaces.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Morocco is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 2: Moderate Level of COVID-19.

Mozambique

According to the U.S. Embassy in Mozambique, the following applies to U.S. citizens who want to enter Mozambique:

  • Non-Mozambican citizens, including U.S. citizens, who have a valid DIRE (residence permit) and/or required visa(s) are able to enter Mozambique, subject to the COVID-19 testing requirement below, without seeking specific authorization from the Ministry of Interior.
  • Travelers arriving for tourism purposes only can get visas upon arrival with proof of a return ticket and hotel booking. Please be aware that U.S. citizens have been denied entry for not having obtained the proper type of visa in advance. Obtaining your visa in advance from the Mozambican Embassy in Washington, D.C., is strongly encouraged.
  • Business travelers who are non-Mozambican citizens and who do not have a valid DIRE and/or visa(s) and are traveling for work or business purposes are required to seek authorization to enter Mozambique from the Ministry of Interior.

Travelers who are able to enter Mozambique are required to provide proof of negative COVID-19 PCR test results administered in their country of origin within 72 hours of departure. Children up to age 10 are exempt from this requirement. Travelers should expect health screenings upon arrival and there are many regulations and restrictions in effect for commercial business and gatherings.

Currently, the U.S. State Department’s advisory for Mozambique is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

Namibia

Namibia has been open for tourism since Sept. 1, 2020, and most hotels, safari lodges and camps, restaurants and shops are open and public transportation is running.

Tourists, including Americans, are allowed to fly to Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH), but according to the U.S. Embassy in Namibia, unless they can provide proof upon entry of being fully vaccinated they must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of arrival. All visitors must fill out a health questionnaire.

According to the U.S. Embassy, as of Dec. 1, 2021, only COVID-19 test certificates obtained from providers participating in the Trusted Travel platform or verified on the Global Haven system will be valid for entry into and exit from Namibia. To supplement your certificate(s), the U.S. Embassy strongly recommends travelers also bring paper copies of all COVID-19 test results to the airport or port of departure.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Namibia is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

Nigeria

Nigeria reopened its airports on July 8, 2020, after months of closure. Abuja, Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt, Owerri and Maiduguri airports all reopened for domestic flights in July 2020, and international flights resumed in August 2020.

All tourists are again welcome, including Americans. The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria, arriving international passengers age 10 and older must have proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of departure on the first leg of their journey or proof of being fully vaccinated. A quarantine protocol issued in September requires all international visitors to register via the Nigeria International Travel Portal and upload test results or vaccine certificates prior to travel.

In addition to being fully vaccinated or providing the negative COVID-19 PCR test result not more than 48 hours prior to boarding, all passengers are required to take an additional COVID-19 PCR test on day two after arrival (and they must register and pay for it beforehand to obtain a QR code).

Unvaccinated and partially vaccinated inbound passengers are still required to observe a mandatory seven-day self-isolation in addition to a COVID-19 PCR test on days two and seven after arrival.

Arrival testing details can be found here.

Republic of the Congo

The Republic of the Congo, located in Central Africa between Gabon and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is allowing U.S. travelers to visit. According to the U.S. Embassy in the Republic of the Congo, all arriving passengers must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test (check with your airline for the time frame) and undergo a health screening upon arrival.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for the Republic of the Congo is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution and the CDC’s advisory is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

Rwanda

Rwanda is open to American tourists. The country had been doing a relatively good job controlling the coronavirus outbreak since reopening to commercial flights on Aug. 1, 2020, but cases hit record highs last summer and began to surge again in early January before declining (see details on the Johns Hopkins University website).

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Rwanda is now Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Rwanda, all arriving passengers are required to fill out a passenger locator form and upload a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours (three days) of departure for Rwanda (children under 5 are exempt from testing). All travelers are also subject to testing upon arrival (at a cost of $60), per the instructions on Rwanda Biomedical Centre’s website.

Arrival protocols and additional information can be found in the FAQ section on VisitRwanda.com. Rwanda is offering visas on arrival as well for all nationalities. There are a number of additional planning resources available at VisitRwanda.com.

All major national parks in the country are open, but according to VisitRwanda.com, tourists to Rwanda’s national parks are now required to complete a guest registration and indemnity form in advance of their visit and submit the form electronically to the park.

Travelers departing Rwanda must also test negative with a PCR test within 72 hours of departure for home (but the U.S. now requires a negative test result within one day of travel, so U.S travelers might need to get both a PCR test to depart and a rapid antigen test to satisfy U.S. requirements).

Face masks are required nationwide in public spaces.

Senegal

International flights have resumed to Senegal, but land and sea borders remain closed. Americans can enter the country, according to the U.S. Embassy, and must follow entry protocols.

Senegal requires travelers over the age of 2 to present either a COVID-19 vaccination certificate showing that they were fully vaccinated with the AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson, Moderna, Pfizer, Covishield, Sinovac or Sinopharm vaccine at least 14 days before departure or the original certificate of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within five days of arrival and issued in English or French. The West African country also requires all arrivals to submit a passenger locator form. Arriving passengers face health screenings.

A mandatory mask order remains in effect in public spaces.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Senegal is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

Seychelles

The Seychelles, which had gone to extremes to protect itself from coronavirus (in May 2020, TPG cruise reporter Gene Sloan wrote about the small island nation off the coast of Africa banning cruise ships until 2022), began by welcoming vaccinated Americans in February 2021. As of March 25, 2021, unvaccinated U.S. travelers can visit.

The latest travel advisory is here.

As of March 15, 2022, fully vaccinated travelers (a booster dose is required for those age 18 and older if the second dose was more than six months prior) and those who have proof of having tested positive in the past two to 12 weeks no longer need to present a negative pre-travel test to enter, while those who are unvaccinated must present a negative result of a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of their flight and upload the test results to the online portal to obtain a Travel Health Authorization. Fully vaccinated and recovered travelers must also register on the portal to receive travel authorization and all travelers must also present valid travel and health insurance that covers, at a minimum, COVID-19-related isolation, quarantine and clinical care. Note: Visitors may only stay at licensed establishments or liveaboards that have been certified by the Public Health Authority.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Seychelles is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19. Check the U.S. Embassy website for updates.

South Africa

South Africa reopened to tourism on Oct. 1, 2020, and as of Nov. 11, 2020, U.S. citizens can enter for tourism purposes, according to the U.S Embassy in South Africa. They need to present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours from the time of departure (children under 5 are exempt). Those arriving without the proper negative test must test upon arrival and if they receive a positive result remain in mandatory quarantine for 10 days at their own cost. All arriving travelers must also fill out a health questionnaire.

Details can be found here. Additional information is available on South African Airways’ website.

Cases in South Africa have now surpassed 3.7 million. The country has been on adjusted alert Level 1 since Oct. 1, 2021, allowing most normal activity to resume, although masks are required in public spaces. After peaking the week of Dec. 12-16, omicron cases quickly declined.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for South Africa is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Tanzania

Fully vaccinated travelers with a vaccination certificate containing a QR code are no longer required to present a negative pre-travel test, but Tanzania currently requires all other travelers to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result containing a QR code and taken within 72 hours of their flight to Tanzania and to complete an online Health Surveillance Form within 24 hours prior to arrival to receive a unique health code.

All travelers to Zanzibar, whether vaccinated or unvaccinated, must present a negative PCR test result taken within 96 hours of arrival.

Travelers will undergo screening upon arrival and passengers from countries with high levels of COVID-19 will also be required to take a rapid test ($10; $25 in Zanzibar) upon arrival in Tanzania.

The U.S. Embassy in Tanzania says community spread of COVID-19 continues across the country and the U.S. State Department’s advisory for Tanzania is Level 4: Do Not Travel.

U.S. tourists also need a visa to visit Tanzania. See details here.

Related: Dreaming of Tanzania

Uganda

Americans can currently travel to Uganda, known as one of the top destinations for gorilla trekking. The country’s national parks reopened to tourists in October 2020. However, the U.S. Embassy says travelers from the United States should exercise caution because of COVID-19. Crime and kidnappings also remain a concern.

According to the U.S. Embassy, arriving passengers must have a visa applied for online and approved by the Ugandan government as well as a negative PCR COVID-19 test from an accredited laboratory in the country of origin taken not more than 72 hours before boarding their flight for Uganda.

The U.S. Embassy also notes that the government of Uganda requires that all departing passengers present a negative PCR COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of departure. This requirement is mandatory for all departing passengers out of Uganda even if the destination country does not require it. But the U.S. does, although it is now mandated to have been taken within one day of travel.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Uganda is Level 3: Reconsider Travel due to crime and terrorism but the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

Zambia

Zambia, home to Victoria Falls and known as a top safari destination, is open to international travelers, including Americans.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Zambia, the country requires a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel. Tourists also need a visa (apply online for an e-visa here). There are no quarantine requirements for U.S. travelers right now, but there are health screenings upon arrival and symptomatic individuals may be required to submit to testing and/or quarantine.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Zambia is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 2: Moderate Level of COVID-19.

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe reopened its borders to international flights on Oct. 1, 2020, and Americans can visit for tourism. All travelers are required to have a negative COVID-19 PCR test result issued by a recognized facility and taken within 48 hours of arrival (although within 48 hours of departure has been accepted). Quarantine after arrival is not required for travelers who are fully vaccinated.

A yellow fever vaccination is also required.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Zimbabwe, as of Aug. 7, 2021, all visitors are required to use an authorized Trusted Travel lab partner in their country of departure or, if there is no partner in their country, upload negative test results into the Trusted Travel platform. If the traveler is entering from a country that is not part of the Trusted Travel Initiative, the traveler will upload their negative COVID-19 test result to globalhaven.org (account creation required).

Travelers departing Zimbabwe are also required to test negative within 48 hours of departure and use a Trusted Travel lab for testing. Note, however, that the U.S. now requires a test taken within one day of departure to reenter the U.S.

Currently, there is a curfew from midnight to 5:30 a.m.

U.S. citizens can travel to Zimbabwe and the U.S. State Department’s advisory for the country is now Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

This article was originally published on thepointsguy.com