Americans Abroad: When Can We Leave?

As of May 2021, Americans were able to travel to several countries, including Mexico, Greece, Iceland, Croatia, Turkey, and parts of the Caribbean. However, most of Europe remained off-limits or had restrictions in place. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had stated that it was safe for vaccinated Americans to travel internationally, but it was recommended that they exercise caution due to the unpredictable nature of the pandemic.

By February 2022, more than 100 countries allowed U.S. citizens to visit, although restrictions applied. The European Union had removed the U.S. from its safe list and advised member countries to reinstate travel restrictions. The CDC required all passengers, regardless of vaccination status, to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than one day before their flight to the U.S.

COVID-19 vaccination status and testing requirements

As of May 12, 2023, non-immigrant travellers to the United States are no longer required to be fully vaccinated before boarding a flight to the country or entering through a land or ferry port of entry. This means that non-citizen non-immigrant air passengers no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated with an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to board a flight to the United States.

Until June 12, 2022, a separate CDC order required all air travellers, regardless of citizenship, to show a negative coronavirus test result from a test taken one day before their flight's departure from a foreign country. This requirement was then rescinded, and as of 12:01 am ET on June 12, 2022, the CDC no longer required air passengers travelling from a foreign country to the United States to show a negative COVID-19 viral test or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 before boarding their flight.

The CDC recommends that travellers get tested 1-3 days before their flight and have the actual results (not pending) before travelling. If the result is positive, do not travel. It is also recommended that travellers get tested 3-5 days after their flight and stay home for 7 days after travelling, even with a negative test result. If you test positive for COVID-19 after travelling, isolate yourself and follow public health recommendations. Do not travel until you are no longer considered a transmission risk, including your return trip home. If you don't get tested after travelling, it is safest to stay home for 14 days after travel.

Travel advisories and restrictions

As of June 2024, more than 100 countries allow US citizens to visit, but some restrictions apply. The US State Department has issued a Level 4 ("Do Not Travel") travel advisory for dozens of countries, warning Americans to reconsider international travel due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It is important to check the US State Department website for updates before travelling.

When travelling internationally, all passengers flying into the US, including returning US citizens, need to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test prior to boarding. The test must be taken no more than one day before their flight. Additionally, the CDC recommends that travellers get tested 1-3 days before their flight and 3-5 days after their flight. If you test positive for COVID-19, isolate yourself and follow public health recommendations. Do not travel until you are no longer considered a transmission risk.

Each country has its own specific requirements for entry. For example, some countries require proof of vaccination, while others require a negative COVID-19 test or both. Some countries also have quarantine requirements, even for those who are fully vaccinated. It is important to check the requirements for your specific destination before travelling. Here are some examples:

• Albania: As of September 2022, US citizens must submit to testing when travelling to Albania. PCR tests must be taken within 72 hours of travel, and antigen tests must be taken within 48 hours. Negative results are required for entry. Fully vaccinated travellers can bypass these requirements by showing proof of vaccination.
• Anguilla: As of July 2021, only travellers who can prove they have been fully vaccinated at least three weeks before arriving can visit Anguilla. They must also provide negative results from a COVID-19 test taken 2-5 days before travel.
• Antigua and Barbuda: Travellers must provide negative results from a COVID-19 test taken no more than four days before arrival. They must also be fully vaccinated and complete a Health Declaration Form prior to landing. Masks are required in all public spaces.
• Armenia: US citizens can enter Armenia by presenting a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours prior to arrival or agreeing to test upon arrival and quarantine until they receive negative results. Vaccine documentation cards are also accepted instead of a negative test.
• Aruba: Travellers must complete an online embarkation/disembarkation card and a health assessment, as well as provide a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than one day before arrival. Fully vaccinated travellers can show proof of vaccination instead of testing.
• Austria: US citizens can enter Austria without having to quarantine if they provide proof of vaccination and a booster shot. Those who are vaccinated but not boosted must provide proof of vaccination and a negative test. Those who are not vaccinated must present a negative test and quarantine for 10 days.

In addition to country-specific requirements, individual airlines may have their own requirements for testing and vaccination. For example, Delta Air Lines offers quarantine-free travel to Italy and the Netherlands for those who are fully vaccinated.

It is important to stay informed about the latest travel advisories and restrictions when planning international travel. Requirements can change frequently, so it is recommended to check for updates before booking any travel and to purchase travel insurance in case of last-minute changes or cancellations.

Quarantine rules

As of May 2024, the COVID-19 pandemic continues, but several countries have begun to reopen to American travellers. However, the rules around COVID-era travel change rapidly, so it is important to check the latest information before planning any travel.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that travellers get tested twice for COVID-19. Firstly, 1-3 days before your flight—make sure to have the results before travelling. If you test positive, do not travel. Secondly, get tested 3-5 days after your flight. Stay home for 7 days after travelling, even if you test negative. If you test positive for COVID-19 after you travel, isolate yourself and follow public health recommendations. Do not travel until you are no longer considered a transmission risk—this includes your return trip home. If you don’t get tested, it’s safest to stay home for 14 days after travel.

Most outbound travellers from the United States face health screenings on arrival in international countries. They might also face the possibility of a 14-day quarantine, whether they are symptomatic or not. This is widely thought to be a short-term strategy until immunity passports or immunity certificates become widespread.

The CDC continues to advise Americans not to travel internationally until they are fully inoculated against COVID-19. The CDC website has a four-tier ranking system that provides guidance on the coronavirus risk in specific countries. The agency reserves the highest “Level 4” ranking for countries with “special circumstances” that include spiking case numbers, the emergence of worrying variants, or threats to the viability of health care infrastructure. At the moment, no countries are classified at Level 4.

Visa requirements

As of June 2024, there are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering the US. However, US citizens are required to enter and exit the US using a US passport.

US citizens travelling abroad will need to comply with the visa requirements of their destination country. As of May 2024, more than 50 countries are welcoming US leisure travellers, including:

• Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Jamaica, St. Bart's, St. Lucia, and Turks and Caicos in the Caribbean
• Albania, Ireland, Serbia, Turkey, and the United Kingdom in Europe
• French Polynesia and the Maldives
• Ghana, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Rwanda in Africa
• Belize, Colombia, Panama, and Peru in Central and South America
• United Arab Emirates

Each country may have different visa requirements, and it is essential to check the specific requirements for your destination. Some countries may require a traditional visa, while others may offer a visa waiver program such as the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). It is important to note that certain conditions, such as prior arrests or previous denial of entry, may make individuals ineligible for visa waiver programs and require them to apply for a standard visa.

In addition to visa requirements, US citizens should be prepared for possible health screenings upon arrival at their international destination. They may also be required to quarantine for a period, typically 14 days, regardless of their health status. To ensure a smooth travel experience, it is recommended to stay updated on the latest travel advisories and requirements for your chosen destination.

Safety precautions

The US Department of State provides country-specific safety and security information for US citizens travelling abroad. This includes information on entry and exit requirements, local laws and customs, health conditions, accessibility, typical scams and crimes, transportation safety, and other relevant topics. The Department of State also issues warnings advising against travel to certain high-risk countries or areas.

Before You Go

• Learn about your destination: Research your destination to understand the local laws, customs, health risks, safety concerns, and transportation options. Check for any US government travel advisories or alerts for your destination.
• Get travel insurance: Ensure you have adequate travel insurance that covers health care and emergency evacuation, especially if travelling to remote areas.
• Make copies of important documents: Make multiple copies of your passport, visa, health insurance card, credit cards, and other essential documents. Keep one set of copies separate from the originals while travelling, and leave another copy with a trusted friend or relative.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): Enrolling in STEP ensures that the US Department of State can assist you in case of legal, medical, or financial difficulties while travelling. It also helps friends and family contact you in an emergency.
• Prepare a travel health kit: Include prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, a first aid kit, insect repellent, sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher), aloe, alcohol-based hand sanitiser, water disinfection tablets, and your health insurance card.
• Notify your credit card company and bank: Inform them of your international travel plans and ask about foreign transaction fees.
• Carry essential items: Bring an internationally functioning mobile phone, the correct type of plug and voltage converter, and other necessary equipment for your destination.

During Your Trip

• Stay vigilant: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in public spaces and tourist spots, to guard against petty theft, scams, and other crimes.
• Keep your belongings in sight: Always keep your luggage and personal items within your sight. Use a bag with a strap that goes across your chest, and avoid keeping valuables in back pockets.
• Be cautious on public transportation: Note who is around you and keep track of your belongings.
• Follow road safety practices: Road accidents are a significant risk when travelling abroad. Avoid driving if possible, as traffic laws and regulations can vary greatly between countries. Use recommended, safe modes of local transportation.
• Practice food and water safety: Contaminated food and drinks can cause illnesses. Generally, hot foods, dry and packaged foods, bottled or canned drinks, and hot beverages are safer options.
• Protect yourself from insects: Use insect repellent to avoid bug bites, as insects can spread diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, Zika, dengue, chikungunya, and Lyme.
• Be careful around animals: Avoid contact with animals, including pets, local farm animals, and wild animals, due to the risk of rabies and bacterial infections.
• Stay vigilant during water activities: Drowning is a leading cause of death for Americans abroad. Always follow water safety recommendations, obey posted signs, use a life jacket if available, and avoid unnecessary risks.
• Maintain a low profile: Avoid American-themed locations, dress to blend in, minimise speaking loudly in American English, and avoid carrying flashy items or expensive electronics.
• Stay in touch: Carry a charged phone with you at all times, and share your contact information with your department, travel companions, and appropriate contacts.

Frequently asked questions