We all know that everything changed when the pandemic hit the world in 2020, from lifestyle to going to universities, shopping, and especially on travels. We’ve been stuck in our homes for a while and have been trying to adjust everything since Covid-19 is just on the corner. Luckily, we are now starting to recover from the threat of the virus and have been doing great in terms of adjustments and recovery after 2 years of being stuck inside our homes. And now that we are welcome to get into different countries to visit our favorite destinations. We are now ready to take out our itinerary plan for our next travels.
If you plan to travel abroad, there are different things that you need to know to get inside a foreign country. Travel restrictions are still up because of the covid-19 virus, and most nations have just started to recover. There are different travel guidelines that every tourist and worker needs to follow in the United States. And here are the things that we need to note before traveling to the USA.
Proof of vaccination requirements
If you are traveling inside the United States, whether through land ports of entry or ferry terminals, the United States requires non-essential travel and international travel to prepare a proof of COVID-19 vaccination. They must also attest to their non-essential travel and COVID-19 vaccination status. The trips’ waiting time will be longer than usual because of the constant checking of proof and necessary travel documents required when entering the nation, such as passport, Trusted Traveler Program Card, or Enhanced Tribal card. Also, be prepared to show any documents needed and requested by any United States Customs and Border Protection to ensure smooth travel. COVID -19 testing is not required if you are traveling via land or ferry port of entry.
If you are traveling via air, you need to show your proof of vaccination requirement. All the international visitors to the United States must provide evidence of complete vaccination upon boarding their flight to the United States. They also need to take note of the FDA-approved vaccines or authorized and the vaccines under the category of Emergency Use Listing (EUL) coming the World Health Organization. Individuals who are at least two weeks after the last dose of any accepted vaccine, whether a single-dose or any combination of two-dose series, are fully vaccinated. However, children under 18 years old are exempted from these vaccine requirements and other limited exceptions that might apply.
When traveling, it is highly recommended that you buy travel insurance for USA to protect yourself against all uncertainties during your trip.
Testing Requirement
International travelers aged two and older must have a negative COVID-19 viral test taken 24 hours before their travel. Nucleic acid amplification test, just like the PCR test, and any antigen test are qualified. Additional testing requirements are needed if the traveler is exempted from the proof of vaccination requirement and documentation needs for travelers who demonstrate a recent recovery from COVID-19 aside from the negative test result.
Contact Tracing Requirement
All airline passengers bound to the United States must provide contact information to the airlines before boarding flights. This process is for the sole purpose of contact tracing. This is considered critical in detection and immediate response in case of a COVID-19 variant was carried by a passenger. This is also for the sole purpose of protecting both international and public visitors to the country.
Federal Mask Mandates
We do know that Covid still exists all over the world. Hence, upon boarding the plane and entering the United States, all visitors are asked to wear a mask covering their nose and their mouth inside the airplanes, airports, and other indoor areas of public transportation within the United States and even outside of the country.
State and Local Requirements
Every state of the United States has its own safety protocol. The local businesses, local government offices, and some establishments might require some health and safety guidelines upon entering their establishment.
Regardless of where you are traveling in the United States, you need to remember to wear your facemask and carry your vaccination cards and all necessary documents that are deemed essential. As travelers, we need to understand that as we protect ourselves, we also need to protect other people. Always do social distancing and plan your travel ahead of time to avoid time constraints and also enjoy your time traveling inside the country. Every state has a beautiful tourist spot and some culture that we want to experience and enjoy; hence, following the safety protocols given by the government is not bad. It is just a way for us to ensure that COVID-19 will not close our borders again, and we will continue to have a safe and happy trip all year long. Have your itinerary ready and enjoy a safer trip with your family.
