What’s Open For Travel?

The latest on where our clients can travel 

Updated June 20, 2021

Travel is back. Americans are hitting the road again, and even if they’re not already traveling, many are ready to start booking future trips.

North America

United States

The United States was for many months the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic. The U.S. had more cases than any country in the world in late 2020 and early 2021. Cases have now declined to levels reported before the winter surge.

Important for travelers to the U.S. to know: As of Jan. 26, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) requires all air passengers two years of age and older traveling to the U.S. from abroad to take a viral COVID-19 test within 72 hours (three days) of departure for the U.S. and provide documentation of a negative PCR or Antigen result to their airline before being allowed to board; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. This applies to both non-citizens as well as U.S. citizens, even those who are fully vaccinated, returning to the U.S. from any international destination (with the exception of U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands).

President Joseph R. Biden also 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 and airports. It was recently extended through Sept. 13, 2021. The CDC currently recommends that non-vaccinated travelers get tested three to five days after any travel and isolate for seven days, or isolate for 10 days after travel without testing. It is advised that even fully vaccinated individuals get tested three to five days after returning from international travel, but they do not have to self-isolate.

All states are in the latter stages of fully reopening after surging cases from November 2020 to early February 2021 forced many to resume closure of some public spaces, ban indoor dining at restaurants and bars, limit gatherings, mandate mask-wearing and require quarantines or proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test for incoming travelers. Many of those restrictions have now been lifted or are being phased out as the U.S. vaccination program moves forward and case levels decline. Variants continue to be a cause for concern, however, especially because they have led to hospitalizations among younger Americans.

Our state-by-state guide to American re-openings is here.

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.

Additionally, the U.S. has restrictions on visitors, including a ban on tourists driving into the country from Canada and Mexico through at least June 21, 2021, as well as a ban on all tourists (but not U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents of the U.S.) traveling from China, Iran, Europe’s Schengen Area, the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales and N. Ireland), the Republic of Ireland, Brazil and South Africa. See additional details here. On May 4, 2021, the U.S. also began banning entry by any foreign national who has been in India within the previous 14 days.

The U.S. State Department lifted its blanket “Level 4” warning — the department’s highest warning — against any international travel in August 2020, but it is still not recommended. And in late April 2021, more than 80% of the world’s countries were again given Level 4 warnings to match the CDC’s advisories on COVID-19 spread in each country. A good number of them have been lowered to Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution and Level 3: Reconsider Travel in recent weeks.

Canada

Niagara Falls on the U.S./Canada border July 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Niagara Falls on the U.S./Canada border. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

The border between the United States and Canada remains closed through at least July 21, 2021. In addition, most foreign nationals, including Americans, are not welcome except for those who have dual citizenship or are Canadian residents.

On Feb. 5, 2021, Canada also announced that it will ban all cruise ships carrying more than 100 passengers from calling on Canadian ports through Feb. 28, 2022, thereby shutting down cruise tourism for summer and fall 2021 in the country’s Atlantic Provinces, the Gulf of St. Lawrence and British Columbia (Vancouver is an embarkation port for many summer cruises to Alaska).

On Jan. 29, 2021, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau placed greater restrictions on travel for Canadian citizens by banning all travel to the Caribbean and Mexico through April 30, 2021 (now extended through most of June 2021). Canadian airlines, in turn, suspended flights to those destinations, but have announced plans to return service in late June.

As of Feb. 22, 2021, Canada also began requiring anyone arriving in or returning to Canada to take a COVID-19 PCR test upon arrival and pay for a three-day quarantine at a government-approved hotel at a cost of 2,000 CAD (about $1,565) as they await their test result. Officials have indicated that beginning some time in July 2021, Canadian citizens who are fully vaccinated most likely will be able to return without having to quarantine in a hotel; the protocol, expected to be announced on June 21, 2021, will require a test upon arrival and self-isolation at home until the result is received.

Related: Canada announces strict new entry requirements

Since Jan. 7, 2021, Canada has required all arriving airline passengers over the age of five to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within three days of arrival. All arrivals must still do that as well as undergo a required 14-day home quarantine after receiving a negative test during the three-day hotel quarantine. Details on the latest restrictions can be found here.

International flights are only being allowed to land at four Canadian airports: Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary and Montreal. Any foreigner attempting to enter Canada for reasons of tourism, recreation or entertainment will be turned away. Certain immediate and extended family members of Canadian citizens are able to enter Canada with government authorization for a stay of 15 days or more with the required testing, hotel quarantine and self-quarantine.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Canada will need to show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Canada has not banned province-to-province travel, although travel between some provinces is currently prohibited as dictated by individual provinces. Rising cases in Canada in December 2020 prompted lockdowns in Ontario and Quebec through early February, with phased regional re-openings. However, a variant-fueled surge once again resulted in renewed restrictions and curfews in Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia in early April 2021; restrictions are gradually being eased as of late May 2021.

Mexico

Mexico City August 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Mexico City August 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Mexico began a slow regional reopening on June 29, 2020, and many coronavirus restrictions have been lifted. However, widespread community transmission remains a current concern and there is a federal “stoplight” system that limits activities in some regions.

Mexico eagerly flung open its doors to Americans — and has never required testing for entry. At first, it was just beach destinations such as Cancun, but now even Mexico City is open for tourism. 

Related: Mexico reopening its beaches

All Mexican airports are open to Americans. Tourists are advised that enhanced screening and cleaning procedures are in effect. There are also health checks at all airports, but no testing requirements. However, as of Jan. 26, 2021 everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Mexico is required to show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Many Mexico resorts have begun to offer on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests for guests returning to the U.S.

Mexico saw a major surge in cases in late December 2020 and early January 2021 following an influx of tourists. The U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for Mexico is Level 3: Reconsider Travel.

Related: Everything you need to know before visiting Mexico

According to the U.S. Embassy in Mexico, community transmission remains widespread. No states have been deemed “red” under Mexico’s stoplight system for the period ending June 20, 2021, but four states—including Quintana Roo, home to Cancun and Riviera Maya—is “orange,” requiring capacity restrictions of 50% in hotels and restaurants.

The U.S.–Mexico land border is closed to nonessential travel until at least June 21, 2021.

Related: What it’s like traveling to the Cancun area during a COVID-19 spike

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the U.S., has officially reopened to all international travelers. To enter Puerto Rico, all travelers must complete an online Travel Declaration available on the Puerto Rico Health Department’s online portal and present a negative molecular COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 72 hours prior to arrival. As of May 28, 2021, domestic travelers to Puerto Rico are allowed to present their vaccination card as proof of having completed vaccination (must be completed at least two weeks prior to travel), exempting them from pre-travel testing. To receive an Airport Exit Confirmation QR Code, all travelers must upload their negative test result or their vaccination card to the online portal.

All international visitors still need to comply with the pre-travel PCR testing requirements (test taken 72 hours prior to arrival) even if they are fully vaccinated.

As of April 28, 2021, passengers who do not upload negative test results to the online portal before arrival face a $300 fine; those awaiting results have 48 hours to upload the results and the fine will be dismissed; those who arrive without having taken a test are required to test on the island within 48 hours to have the fine dismissed. Details are here.

Upon arrival at San Juan International Airport, travelers will be subject to health screenings, including additional COVID-19 testing if symptomatic.

Related: I visited Puerto Rico—here’s what you need to know right now

Puerto Rico experienced a surge in cases in late March 2021, but cases have since leveled off. The CDC’s advisory for the island, however, remains at Level 3: High Levels of COVID-19. Masks are required in all public spaces (and there is a $100 fine for non-compliance). Golf courses and beaches are open and water activities are allowed with appropriate social distancing. Casinos, museums and hotel pools are now operating at 75% capacity. Restaurants are also operating at 75% capacity, but buffets are banned and restaurant staff serve meals wearing gloves and masks. Bars and nightclubs remain closed.

An island-wide curfew of 12 a.m. to 5 a.m. is in effect and access to Old San Juan from 12 a.m. to 5 a.m. is limited to residents and guests of hotels within the area. For updates, check here.

If you’re thinking of bypassing hotel restrictions by booking an Airbnb, keep in mind that many of the same rules will apply.

A note for travelers returning from Puerto Rico: The U.S. began requiring proof of a negative COVID-19 viral test on Jan. 26, 2021, for all international arrivals by air, but passengers traveling back to the U.S. mainland from Puerto Rico will not be required to have taken a test.

Related: Your points and miles guide to Puerto Rico

U.S. Virgin Islands

The U.S. Virgin Islands, which includes St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix, began welcoming back tourists on June 1, 2020, with restrictions. After a surge in cases, the islands returned to a “stay-at-home” order on Aug. 13, 2020, but again reopened to tourism on Sept.19, 2020.

Every traveler five years of age or older, even those who are fully vaccinated, are currently required to submit to the U.S. Virgin Islands Travel Screening Portal a negative COVID-19 molecular test result (PCR or rapid Antigen) taken and results received within five days of commencement of travel to the Territory, or a positive COVID-19 antibody test taken and received within four months of their travel date. Visitors must produce the original test result as well as the travel certification from the portal upon arrival. As of Jan. 25, 2021, travelers age five and older may be denied boarding of flights to the U.S. Virgin Islands without travel certification from the portal. Details can be found here.

No quarantine is required for healthy visitors who have negative test results.

Travelers who are asked to quarantine will be expected to do so at their own expense, and according to the government, “are responsible for all associated costs, including transportation, lodging, food, and medical care.”

Related: U.S. Virgin Islands reopening

Masks are mandatory when going into businesses and attractions and when using public transportation. Beaches are open, but social distancing is required. Large gatherings remain prohibited. Hotels, guesthouses, villas, timeshares and Airbnb accommodations are all accepting bookings. COVID-19 guidelines are in place for retail businesses and attractions, taxi vans, safari vehicles and limo services. The CDC’s advisory for the U.S. Virgin Islands is Level Unknown.

A note for travelers returning from the U.S. Virgin Islands: The U.S. now requires proof of a negative COVID-19 viral test for all international arrivals by air, but passengers traveling back to the U.S. mainland from the U.S. Virgin Islands will not be required to have taken a test.

Caribbean

Related: A country-by-country guide to the Caribbean

(Photo by Tetra Images/Getty Images)
(Photo by Tetra Images/Getty Images)

Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda reopened to tourists on June 4, 2020.

The government’s latest Travel Advisory requires all passengers age 12 and older who are arriving by air to have a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test result taken within seven days of their flight. This includes transiting passengers. Passengers arriving by sea are subject to quarantine according to guidelines issued by Port Health. All travelers are also subject to assessment by Port Health Authorities for signs and symptoms through a series of checks and the completion of a health declaration form upon arrival.

All arriving passengers must complete a health declaration and stay at a certified property, where they will quarantine and be monitored for COVID-19 for up to 14 days while being able to enjoy certified activities. As of May 14, 2021, travelers who are two weeks past having completed vaccination will only need to quarantine at certified properties for seven days (with a COVID-19 test on day five). Any testing upon arrival or at the place of lodging will be determined by the Health Authorities (cost: $100 per person).

Travelers will also have to adhere to social distancing guidelines, including face masks in public. Failure to do so could result in a fine of up to $5,000XCD (about $1,850) and/or imprisonment for up to six months. Hotels, beaches, excursions and restaurants are open; non-hotel bars remain closed and there is an 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. island-wide curfew.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Antigua will need to show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

The Points Guy founder Brian Kelly canceled an early June trip to Antigua. but eventually, he was able to make the trip.

American Airlines resumed service to the Caribbean with flights to Antigua.

Per the U.S. Embassy for the Eastern Caribbean, the U.S. State Department’s advisory for Antigua is  Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions. The CDC’s advisory is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

Anguilla

Anguilla is once again welcoming pre-approved travelers as of May 25, 2021, after a month-long suspension of all entries. Travelers must follow step-by-step instructions involving authorization, hotel and transfer reservations and testing—but with the reopening, quarantine time was reduced to seven days for fully vaccinated travelers who are at least three weeks past their final dose and beginning July 1, 2021, fully vaccinated visitors will no longer need to pay fees for on-island testing or quarantine.

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 and the fee is $300 for an individual, plus $200 for any additional person on the application), provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken three to five days (72-120 hours) before departure and then undergo a temperature check and take another test upon arrival.

For unvaccinated travelers, a third test on day 10 or 14 (depending on where the traveler is from) is also required; the U.S. is a high-prevalence country, so a 14-day stay in your resort “bubble” is  required until the second on-island test results are received. Multi-generational families and/or groups with a mix of unvaccinated and vaccinated persons will all have to quarantine for a 10-day period, utilizing only approved short-stay services.

Guests must stay in place at their accommodations until receiving their second on-island test result or use Safe Environment Approved ground transportation to visit Safe Environment Certified restaurants or participate in Safe Environment Approved activities. See FAQs here.

Travel health insurance that covers COVID-19 and is valid in Anguilla is also required for unvaccinated travelers. In addition, travelers entering/transferring via Dutch St. Maarten must complete St. Maarten’s health screening application form and pre-arrange boat or air travel to Anguilla.

Beginning July 1, 2021, Anguilla is scheduled to drop testing upon arrival (and associated fees) and quarantine requirements for all fully vaccinated travelers who are three weeks or more past their final dose.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Anguilla will need to show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Anguilla is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19. Visit the U.S. Embassy in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, which oversees Anguilla, for additional information.

Aruba December 2017. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Aruba December 2017. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Aruba

Aruba reopened to tourists last summer and American visitors were welcomed back as of 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 4 hours prior to travel and those 15 years of age and older are required to provide a certified negative molecular COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 to 12 hours of travel to Aruba or take a COVID-19 PCR test upon arrival ($75) and quarantine in their hotel room until receiving a negative result (typically within 24 hours). Testing requirements for U.S. residents 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 $30 for travelers aged 15 and older and $10 for those 14 and under.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Aruba must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

Visitors to Aruba are required to carry a mask with them at all times and wear one in the airport, in indoor public spaces (including casinos), and on public transport and tour buses. The country has also placed temporary capacity limits on some tourist spots, especially in popular destinations. Some bars are closed, but beach bars are open, hotel bars are open to guests and restaurant bars are open for table service only. Casinos are open with safety measures in place, including closure at 11 p.m. due to an 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew.

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 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the island is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

For the latest updates related to travel, check Visit Aruba’s Entry Requirements page.

Bahamas

Paradise Island in Nassau in the Bahamas. (Photo by Pola Damonte/Getty Images)

The Bahamas hit several road bumps in its reopening, first opening up in July 2020 and then shutting down again before reopening its borders to international travelers in October 2020. There are still a few hurdles for visitors, but the process is fairly straightforward.

Americans are allowed to visit, but non-vaccinated travelers over age 10 must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within five days of arrival. As of May 1, 2021, fully vaccinated travelers (two weeks or more past their final dose) do not have to present a test result to enter the Bahamas or travel inter-island. All visitors age 18 and older, however, must purchase a “Bahamas Health Visa” prior to arrival (the cost varies by length of stay, ranging from $40-$70 person, and includes local health insurance), and upload negative test results into that online form. Vaccinated travelers must upload documentation of their completed vaccination. Details on pre-travel testing requirements can be found here.

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). Non-vaccinated travelers must also take a rapid Antigen test if they display symptoms and test on day five if their stay is longer than five days/four nights. And non-vaccinated travelers must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result no older than five days for inter-island travel while vaccinated travelers are exempt.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from the Bahamas must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

Related: Bahamas reopening

All Bahamas hotels were allowed to open by mid-October 2020; they are also allowed to let visitors use their beaches. There are nightly curfews from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. on Nassau, Paradise Island, Grand Bahama, Eleuthera, Exuma and Abaco.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for the Bahamas is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the island was updated on April 19, 2021, to Level 3: High Levels of COVID-19.

Barbados

Barbados reopened to international travelers on July 12, 2020, and JetBlue resumed U.S. commercial flights on July 25, 2020, followed by American Airlines on Aug. 5, 2020. In mid-November 2020, the country announced a partnership with Stage Zero Life Sciences for pre-travel testing for travelers from the United States and Canada.

Barbados, which has seen intermittent spikes in COVID cases, has also developed a BIMSAFE app designed to expedite the entry and quarantine process. The main caveat for travelers? The island continues to require unvaccinated visitors to not only test but also quarantine in their hotel rooms for seven days.

Related: Barbados wants you to move there and work remotely

Barbados’s mandatory protocols, which were updated and expanded on Feb. 3, 2021, still apply to unvaccinated inbound travelers—but as of May 8, 2021 vaccinated travelers who are two weeks past vaccination completion and who have not traveled through countries of special consideration (South Africa, Brazil or India) within the past 21 days have a shorter quarantine requirement.

As of May 8, 2021, all unvaccinated travelers must:

  • Have proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test from an accredited laboratory taken within 72 hours prior to departure, which is required for travelers age five and older from countries of all risk levels.
  • Within 24 hours before traveling to Barbados, complete an online Immigration/Customs form (or use the BIMSAFE app) with personal health questions relating to COVID-19 symptoms and upload their negative COVID-19 test results.
  • Board transport to their pre-approved accommodations (a minimum of seven nights is recommended) and agree to in-room quarantine (no beach or leaving the property) for five days until they take a second PCR test and receive a negative result (available within another 48 hours). They must also self-monitor for symptoms for seven days, including daily temperature checks (bring a thermometer) and report them via the app or to public health teams who will call or text.

As of May 8, 2021, all fully vaccinated travelers must:

  • Have proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test from an accredited laboratory taken within 72 hours prior to departure, which is required for travelers age five and older from countries of all risk levels.
  • Within 24 hours before traveling to Barbados, complete an online Immigration/Customs form (or use 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.
  • Take a COVID-19 rapid PCR test upon arrival in Barbados, either at the airport or at their pre-approved accommodation.
  • Board approved transport to their government-approved accommodations to await their arrival test results (typically within 48 hours) before ending their on-property quarantine.

Complete details on new protocols can be found here.

Social distancing and wearing face masks are mandatory in public spaces. There is an 11 p.m. to 5 a.m.curfew from Thursday night to Monday morning. Violators of quarantine and curfew rules could face stiff fines for jail time.

On Feb. 3, 2021, Barbados strengthened its COVID-19 protocols after the United Kingdom variant was found on the island. Restaurants, bars and non-essential shops were closed and beaches had limited hours for swimming or exercise. These restrictions were eased beginning March 15, 2021, and retail shops and bars (at 50% capacity) were allowed to reopen and restaurants were allowed to open for in-person dining. Beach hours have now been expanded to 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. for swimming or exercise.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Barbados must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Barbados, the U.S. State Department’s advisory for Barbados is Level 2: Exercise Increased Precaution. The CDC’s advisory for the island is Level 2: Moderate 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

Colorful homes and hotels on this hillside in Hamilton, Bermuda. (Photo by andykazie / Getty Images)
Colorful homes and hotels on a hillside in Hamilton, Bermuda. (Photo by andykazie / Getty Images)

Bermuda reopened to travelers, including Americans, on July 1, 2020. The island resumed international commercial air service for visitors as part of its fourth phase of economic reopening. There have been strict protocols in place, including pre-travel authorization and testing and quarantine, but the rules will change as of June 20, 2021, including an easing of requirements for fully vaccinated visitors with proof of vaccination and a 14-day quarantine at a designated (and pre-paid) Quarantine Hotel for those who are unvaccinated.

Related: Bermuda opening to Americans

Here are the requirements posted by the government of Bermuda:

Pre-departure — All travelers must:

  • Within 72 to 25 hours of departure, complete the Bermuda travel authorization process online which gathers important information for the island’s health and immigration officials; a $75 fee per traveler is required, which includes the cost of all COVID-19 testing in Bermuda. Each passenger must have a form completed regardless of age. NOTE: Children 9 and younger do not have to be tested at any point, and their Travel Authorization fee is $30. For additional information, check the Travel authorization FAQ
  • Within four days of departure (changed from five days as of June 20, 2021), visitors must take a COVID-19 PCR test and obtain a negative result. This applies to adults and children aged 10  and up. Children who are nine and younger are exempt and are subject to their adult travel companion’s quarantine. Children 10-17 must receive parental consent to be tested. If consent is denied, the young traveler must quarantine for 14 days on arrival. Test results must be entered as part of the online travel authorization process and be presented upon arrival in Bermuda. As of July 11, 2020, such visitors without a pre-departure test will not be able to obtain Travel Authorization and enter Bermuda.
  • Acquire health insurance covering illness and injury outside of your home jurisdiction, including those related to a positive COVID-19 diagnosis while in Bermuda. If this is not obtained, a visitor will be responsible for all health and accommodation costs should they require treatment and/or quarantine, including costs related to a positive COVID-19 diagnosis in Bermuda
  • Wear face masks when traveling to the departure airport
  • Wear face masks and practice physical distancing at the departure airport

Additionally, as of June 20, 2021, all non-vaccinated travelers are required to:

  • Choose and reserve a Quarantine Hotel and pay for the full 14 days of quarantine.
  • Take a mandatory second COVID-PCR test upon arrival in the airport.
  • Submit to subsequent tests on days four, eight and 14 of their visit.

Bermuda currently has an 12 a.m. to 6 a.m. daily curfew.

As of Jan. 26, 2021 everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Bermuda must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

Related: Visiting Bermuda with kids

According to the U.S. Consulate General in Bermuda, the U.S. State Department advisory for Bermuda is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution and the CDC’s advisory for the island is Level 2: Moderate Level of COVID-19.

More information on coronavirus in Bermuda can be found here.

More reading: New resort and hotel options in Bermuda

Bonaire

Americans are welcome to visit Bonaire. But to avoid a 10-day quarantine at their own cost, all U.S. travelers age 13 and older must have proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken 72 hours prior to arrival, plus a negative Antigen test taken upon arrival in Bonaire, or a negative COVID-19 PCR or NAAT test taken 24 hours before departure. Additionally, travelers must complete a health declaration form for the Public Health Department within 48 hours of their departure for Bonaire.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Bonaire must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

Delta Air Lines, American Airlines and United Airlines are said to be resuming flights from several U.S. airports to Bonaire, with some flights available as of June 5, 2021.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Bonaire is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the island is Level 3: 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, must follow strict protocols. These include:

  • Providing a negative COVID-19 PCR or rapid Antigen test result taken within 120 hours (five days) of departure for the BVI.
  • Registering on the BVI Gateway seven days (and no later than 48 hours) before travel, and completing the application no later than 24 hours before travel.
  • Obtaining COVID-19 health insurance valid in the BVI.
  • Unvaccinated travelers are also required to take a second PCR test upon arrival in the BVI (as of June 15, 2021, this is no longer required of fully vaccinated travelers, who also do not need to quarantine).
  • Unvaccinated travelers must also quarantine at their resort for four full days while using an activated tracking system on their phones and wearing a wristband monitoring device.
  • Unvaccinated travelers must take a third PCR test on day 4 and await the results (typically given within 24 hours) before being able to move freely around the islands.
  • The fee to unvaccinated travelers is $175 per person fee for testing and tracking devices; it is $35 for fully vaccinated travelers.

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

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from the British Virgin Islands must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for the British Virgin Islands is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. Check the U.S. Embassy in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, which overseas the BVI, for additional information.

Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands began a soft reopening on Oct. 1, 2020.

Only Americans who own homes in the Cayman Islands, dual citizens or those hoping to move to the Cayman Islands under long-term work arrangements via the island’s Global Citizen Concierge Program are allowed in—and visitors can’t leave until they have finished their mandatory 14-night quarantine and have tested negative.

Those who are approved for entry need to register with the TravelTime service before their trip, and as of Jan. 14, 2021, all travelers age 10 and older need to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours prior to departure for the Cayman Islands. Airlines will deny boarding to anyone without the required negative test results. As of May 14, 2021, travelers who are at least two weeks past being fully vaccinated may present their vaccination card instead of of COVID-19 test results.

All arriving passengers will then need to undergo COVID-19 testing upon arrival (Day 0) in Cayman, and again on Day 15, and remain in isolation for a minimum of 14 days while wearing a tracking device, after which a PCR test will be required on Day 15. A negative test result and sign-off by the Medical Officer of Health is required for the quarantine period to cease. Visitors are advised to allow 24-72 hours for off-boarding process, this includes a negative test result and return of monitoring equipment.

The Cayman Islands is taking its mandatory quarantine very seriously and violators are being prosecuted. A Georgia college student who broke COVID-19 protocol in December 2020 was ordered to serve four months in a Grand Cayman prison before her sentence was reduced to one month served.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from the Cayman Islands must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

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

Related: Cayman Islands reopening

Cuba

Cuba welcomed international visitors back in July 2020.

The U.S. State Department has a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory in place for Cuba. 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.

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 and then, within 48 hours of travel, digitally fill out the Passenger Locator Card (PLC) via the same portal and carry a printed copy with you. A negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours or an Antigen test taken within 24 hours of departure for Curacao must be uploaded to the portal and passengers are also required to carry a copy of the results. Children six years and younger are exempt from testing and the PLC. Details are here.

A second required test was added this past spring for travelers from high-risk countries (as of June 9, 2021, it’s also required of travelers from low-risk countries, which now includes the U.S.), who on day three after arrival must undergo an on-island Antigen test at a local lab. Travelers will be required to make an appointment for the test to complete their Passenger Locator Card prior to travel. Americans, now classified as from a low-risk country, still have to schedule and submit to a second test. Details can be found here.

Health insurance valid in Curacao is also required and travelers who test positive for COVID-19 while in Curacao will be quarantined at their own expense.

After a surge of cases, Curacao announced lockdown measures on March 24, 2021, that were eased on May 11, 2021. Retail shops have been allowed to reopen; restaurants can offer outdoor seating and some indoor dining; beaches, beach club bars and casinos are open. Social distancing measures are in place island-wide and face masks are required when distancing is not possible.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Curacao must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Curacao was recently changed to Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution and the CDC’s advisory for the island is Level 2: Moderate Level of COVID-19. Visit the U.S. Consulate in Curacao‘s website for additional information.

Dominica

Dominica has been open to travelers since Aug. 3, 2020. All eligible 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 procedures:

  • Submit a health questionnaire online at least 24 hours prior to arrival
  • Present notification of clearance to travel in the form of a doctor’s note or similar document
  • Submit a negative PCR test result recorded within 24-72 hours prior to arrival
  • Provide confirmation of a booking at a government-certified private property
  • Provide confirmation of the health questionnaire and negative PCR test results
  • Undergo a health assessment upon arrival, including a temperature check and rapid COVID-19 test screening at Dominica’s airport (children under five are exempt).
  • After receiving a negative result, spend two days (if fully vaccinated) or five to seven days (if not vaccinated) in a Managed Experience at a Safe in Nature certified property, with a COVID-19 PCR test on day 5.
  • Wear a color-coded wristband indicating they are a visitor

Any traveler with a high temperature, high-risk alert from their questionnaire or positive rapid test will be given a PCR test, and be taken into mandatory quarantine at a government-approved facility or hotel at their expense until results are available. If the follow-up test result is positive, the traveler may be quarantined until released by an authorized health professional.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Dominica must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

Visitors must also adhere to stringent on-site policies around social distancing and safe hygiene, which include wearing face masks at all times during the arrival process, up to and including departure from the airport; observing physical distancing guidelines; and following all instructions from local health care staff and officials.

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

For more information, see check U.S. Embassy for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean’s website and Dominica’s Travel Advisory.

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic reopened July 1, 2020, when Punta Cana International Airport restarted commercial operations, although only approximately 30% of its hotels opened at that time. Currently, most hotels and resorts have reopened or will reopen soon. U.S. travelers are welcome and there are no longer any pre-travel COVID-19 testing requirements for visitors.

Related: How to book a trip to the Dominican Republic using points and miles

Travelers can expect mandatory temperature checks upon arrival, but as of October 2020, pre-travel testing has been replaced with spot checks. Airports and other ports of entry will administer a quick, aleatory breath test to between 3% and 15% of passengers upon arrival (travelers who present a vaccination card are exempt from random testing). Passengers who present symptoms or whose test results are positive will be isolated and attended at authorized locations.

However, travelers arriving from Brazil, South Africa and India (or who have visited those countries in the past 14 days) will need a negative PCR or Antigen test result issued within 72 hours of their flight to enter the Dominican Republic.

All travelers are also required to fill out and submit a digital Electronic Entry Ticket (mandatory as of May 1, 2021, for both arrival into and departure from the DR) 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.

Masks and social distancing guidelines are in place for indoor public spaces, public transportation and outdoor situations where distancing isn’t possible. There is also an island-wide curfew of 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. (9 p.m. to 5 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays) and disobeying it can result in fines or jail time. Through June 23, 2021, there is a 6 p.m. curfew in Santo Domingo and the National District.

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

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from the Dominican Republic must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

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. The CDC’s advisory is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Grenada

Saint George-Harbour, Grenada. (Photo by Westend61/Getty Images)
Saint George-Harbour, Grenada. (Photo by Westend61/Getty Images)

Like its Caribbean neighbors, Grenada began reopening to foreign tourists on Aug. 1, 2020 — with many health conditions attached. Strict protocols, including quarantine, are currently in place for all visitors, as the island is no longer dividing travelers into low-, medium- and high-risk, depending on their country of origin. But as of May 1, 2021, fully vaccinated travelers face a reduced quarantine.

Every visitor is required to obtain a Pure Safe Travel Certificate authorizing travel, present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within three days (72 hours) of arrival (children age five and under are exempt from testing), fill out online health forms in advance, have travel insurance valid in Grenada and download the RonaTrac contact tracing app. All visitors will additionally need to show a confirmed reservation for no fewer than seven nights at a Pure Safe Travel accommodation and quarantine there until taking a PCR test on day five (cost: $150, payable when obtaining the Pure Safe Travel Certificate) and getting official clearance to either go out into the community or return home. Complete travel requirements can be found here.

Effective May 1, 2021, fully vaccinated travelers (those who are two weeks or more past their final dose) are still required to provide a negative PCR test taken within 3 days (72 hours) prior to travel and have a fully booked accommodation for a minimum of two nights, but with proof of vaccination will only be required to quarantine for 48 hours pending a negative result from a PCR test administered on arrival. Travelers will not be not allowed to leave quarantine until medical clearance is granted.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Grenada must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

For more information on requirements and restrictions, check the U.S. Embassy for the Eastern Caribbean’s COVID-19 page for Grenada. The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Grenada is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution and the CDC’s advisory for the island is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

Haiti

Haiti 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 a prior COVID-19 infection (positive test and documentation from the attending physician) is also allowed.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Haiti will need to show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Jamaica officially reopened for tourism on June 15, 2020, but anyone hoping to plan a vacation there, especially those from a high-risk country (such as the U.S.), needs to submit a pre-travel health authorization registration with a customs and immigration form within seven days of the intended travel date and the government will issue a travel approval document based on those details. Travelers may be denied permission to visit depending on their risk for COVID-19 transmission.

All travelers age 12 and older must present negative results of a COVID-19 PCR or Antigen test taken within three days (72 hours) of the date of arrival.

All incoming travelers should expect thermal temperature checks upon arrival, and anyone who shows COVID-19 symptoms or feels ill upon arrival will be quarantined. Even after all those procedures, travelers are 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. Travelers may leave their resort only to visit certified tourist attractions and are expected to follow any policies made by tourist and hospitality establishments.

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

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Jamaica must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

Related: Jamaica reopening with lots of rules

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 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Martinique

Martinique’s borders have been closed to tourism by the French government as of Feb. 2, 2021. The French territory had been open for tourism, but only to citizens of France.

According to the U.S. Embassy for the Eastern Caribbean, Americans are not yet welcome, but the island is scheduled to reopen to travelers from outside the E.U. as of June 9, 2021.

All arrivals over the age of 11 who are permitted must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure for the island and must quarantine for seven days until taking another test. As of June 9, 2021, fully vaccinated travelers will not be required to quarantine, according to the U.S. Embassy.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Martinique must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

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

St. Barths

As of June 9, 2021, fully vaccinated travelers from the U.S. are once again allowed to visit St. Barths, 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. Barths must provide proof of being at least two weeks past their final vaccination 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. A seven-day quarantine is not required for fully vaccinated travelers, who are currently the only Americans allowed to visit St. Barths.

The Caribbean island initially reopened to travelers in June 2020, but tourists had been banned since Feb. 2, 2021. U.S. travelers arriving in St. Barths via St. Marten will need to register in advance through the St. Maarten EHAS system and upload negative PCR results as well as pay a fee.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from St. Barths must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so travelers should check their resort’s policy.

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

For updates on travel to St. Barths, check with the U.S. Embassy for 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. Non-vaccinated children under 18 accompanied by fully vaccinated (two weeks or more past their final vaccination) parents will be allowed. The islands are under a period of restricted movement (with a 6 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew) through at least June 26, 2021.

As of May 1, 2021, fully vaccinated travelers (those who are at least two weeks past their final dose) are required to complete the entry form and upload negative PCR test results, but will be required to “vacation in place” at their approved resort for nine days, with a test on day 9 allowing them to explore the island. According to the St. Kitts and Nevis tourism board, vaccinated Americans need to follow current Vacation in Place guidelines:

  • Complete the entry form here and submit a negative COVID-19 PCR test completed within 72 hours of arrival from an accredited laboratory as well as confirmation of a hotel reservation at a certified hotel.
  • Undergo a health screening at the airport which includes a temperature check and a health questionnaire.
  • Download the SKN COVID-19 contact tracing mobile app (to be used for the first nine days (or less) of travel.
  • Days 1-9: Visitors are free to move about the hotel property, interact with other guests and partake in hotel activities.

Fully vaccinated air travelers staying beyond nine days are required to be tested on day nine ($150 visitors’ cost) of their stay and once their test is negative, they may integrate into the community, participating in tours, attractions, restaurants, beach bars, retail shopping, etc. Vaccinated parents traveling with a non-vaccinated child will not be allowed to integrate into the community until after the child is tested on day 14 and the test results come back negative.

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

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from St. Kitts and Nevis must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

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 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

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

St. Lucia

(Photo by Pawel Toczynski/Getty Images)

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

Visitors age five and older (from outside St. Lucia’s designated Travel Bubble) are required to present certified proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within five days of boarding their flights to UVF (this was reduced from seven days as of Feb. 10, 2021). All International travelers, including those from the United States, must also complete an online Travel Registration Form and upload the negative test results before travel, as well as present the Travel Authorization email they receive, or they may be denied boarding.

Once they arrive in St. Lucia, travelers will undergo health checks and temperatures will be taken. All international visitors from outside the St. Lucia Travel Bubble will be required to remain at their COVID-19-certified property and only participate in certified tours and activities for the duration of their stay. Fully vaccinated travelers (those who are two weeks or more past their final dose) will now enjoy expanded access to the island, according to St. Lucia’s tourism website. After 14 days, visitors will be able to move around the island freely. Masks and social distancing are required for the duration of the stay. There is also an island-wide curfew from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from St. Lucia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

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

For further details, visit the International Arrivals page on the St. Lucia Tourism website and the U.S. Embassy for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean’s website.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

An April 2021 eruption of the La Soufrière volcano on the island of St. Vincent has 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.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines began reopening on July 1, 2020. Visitors from all countries are welcome, but everyone must fill out a health form within 24 hours of departure for the islands. Americans face especially strict requirements, which were updated as of Feb. 8, 2021, and modified for fully vaccinated travelers as of April 27, 2021.

All travelers from high-risk countries, which includes the U.S., will need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours (three days) of arrival. All high-risk travelers who are non-vaccinated may also be tested on arrival. They are also required to quarantine at an approved hotel for 14 nights and show proof of a fully paid reservation for those 14 nights. Then, retesting is required between day four and day seven, along with ongoing monitoring by a Port Health Officer.

All fully vaccinated travelers (two weeks or more past their final dose) must show proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours (three days) of arrival, be retested on arrival and complete mandatory quarantine for 48 hours in an approved quarantine hotel at their own cost as they await results of entry test.

For more information on entry requirements for St. Vincent and the Grenadines, click here.

Travelers from 13 Very High Risk countries (which include Brazil, India and South Africa) must undergo a second test upon arrival and must quarantine for 21 days, with tests on days 7 and 14.

Related: Cruise lines send ships to help evacuate St. Vincent as volcano threatens island

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from St. Vincent and the Grenadines must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

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 4: High Level of COVID-19. Check the website of the U.S. Embassy for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean for both COVID-19 and volcanic eruption updates.

Sint Maarten

Sint Maarten January 2017. Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Sint Maarten January 2017. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Dutch Sint Maarten is open and welcoming U.S. and other travelers arriving at Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM).

Before arrival, travelers from high-risk countries (which includes the U.S.) are required to follow several protocols, including submitting the results of a COVID-19 RT-PCR test taken within 72 hours of the day of travel. This was reduced from 120 hours as of Feb. 12, 2021, but both the St. Maarten Health Authorization System website and the U.S. Consulate General in Curacao, which oversees Dutch St. Maarten, report the 120-hour requirement remains for Americans through June 30, 2021. On July 1, 2021, U.S. travelers will need to present a negative PCR naso-pharygeal swab test taken within 72 hours of departure; Americans can also now opt to present the results of any FDA-approved rapid Antigen test done within 48 hours of departure.

All travelers must also submit an online health declaration form in advance of travel (confirmation with a QR code must be shown at immigration). And as of Jan. 11, 2021, all travelers must also apply for the St. Maarten Visitor Protection Plan, which provides health insurance covering COVID-19 testing and treatment while on the island and costs $30 for travelers age 15 and older and $10 for those 14 and under. As travelers from a high-risk country, Americans are also expected to practice daily self-monitoring and reporting of symptoms for 14 days.

Related coverage: Plane-Spotting Time; St. Maarten is Now Open Again

A travel ban is in effect since Jan. 27, 2021, for persons who have been in a banned country (including South Africa, Brazil, India and a dozen South American countries) over the past 14 days.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone aged two and older traveling to the U.S. from St. Maarten must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

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

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

For more information on travel requirements, check the St. Maarten Health Authorization website.

Image courtesy St. Maarten Tourism Bureau.

Trinidad and Tobago

Trinidad January 2017. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Trinidad January 2017. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Trinidad and Tobago issued a stay-at-home order in late March 2020 and banned tourists. The two islands began easing restrictions on May 12, 2020, but so have not begun to welcome tourists.

The country got high marks early on for keeping COVID-19 cases to a minimum, although cases rose in late summer and early fall 2020. And with the new variant that has emerged in the United Kingdom, the government of Trinidad and Tobago raised the mandatory quarantine for any returning residents or essential workers flying from the U.K. to 14 days in a government facility from seven days.

Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley said in May 2020 that the borders will remain closed until the government is confident the virus is contained. The government also is giving hotels some $50 million to remodel and prepare for when tourists are welcomed back.

Caribbean Airlines has resumed some local flights and released a video on their new cleaning procedures in the wake of the outbreak.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Trinidad and Tobago must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Trinidad and Tobago is Level 4: Do Not Travel. Check the U.S. Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago website for updates.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Caribbean Airlines Aircraft Sanitization Video
 
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Turks and Caicos

Grace Bay Beach Turks and Caicos
Grace Bay Beach (Photo by minimum/Getty Images)

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

More: What you have to know for Turks and Caicos reopening

Travelers age 10 and older to Turks and Caicos are required to take a COVID-19 PCR test within five days of visiting the islands and obtain travel pre-authorization via the TCI Assured Portal. Masks are also required in public places and there’s an 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew through at least June 30, 2021. Restaurants and bars are open but are restricted to 30% capacity.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Turks and Caicos must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in the Caribbean have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

For the latest information on restrictions, visit the Turks & Caicos Tourism website and check the website of the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas, which overseas Turks & Caicos.

The U.S. State Department advisory for Turks & Caicos is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution and the CDC’s advisory for the islands is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19. The country recently reported that 65% of its adult population had received at least one dose of the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine.

Related coverage: Why I love Turks and Caicos

Europe

Albania

The Albanian government lifted all restrictions on tourism on July 1, 2020, and commercial flights have resumed, but some connections through major European hubs were reduced in December 2020.

Americans can visit, according to the U.S. Embassy in Albania, and the U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for Albania is now Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution while the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

There are no testing requirements for visitors, but temperature checks on arriving passengers at the airport and mask wearing in all indoor public spaces are mandatory. If a passenger has COVID-19 symptoms and/or a fever they may be required to undergo a mandatory government quarantine. 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.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone aged two and older traveling to the U.S. from Albania must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Albania has a 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew until further notice and all bars, restaurants and fast-food outlets can offer delivery only during those hours.

Related: EU agrees to lift restrictions for American travelers

Armenia

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

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Armenia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Austria

Vienna, Austria September 2017. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Vienna, Austria, September 2017. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Tourism had not been allowed in Austria, but the country has reopened its hospitality sector effective May 19, 2021—although pre-travel clearance is required for everyone entering Austria. Travelers from most European Union countries, along with travelers from several other countries with a “low-incidence rate,” are currently allowed to enter the country for tourism, with testing but no quarantine requirements in place. The United States is currently not on the list of low-incidence countries, which can be found here

Fully vaccinated Americans can, however, enter for business or essential purposes without the required negative COVID-19 PCR test (taken within 72 hours of arrival) or rapid Antigen test (taken within 48 hours of arrival) if they can show proof of being fully vaccinated or having recovered from a past infection within the past six months. According to Austrian authorities, travelers are considered “vaccinated” starting on the 22nd day after their first dose, lasting for three months. After the second dose, the validity extends for another six months. Vaccines that only require one dose are valid from the 22nd day after that dose.

Unvaccinated U.S. travelers entering for business or essential purposes must submit to the required pre-travel testing, plus quarantine upon arrival for 10 days (or take a PCR test after five days to end quarantine early).

Austria entered a second lockdown in November 2020 and since March 2021, has had stay-at-home restrictions with national curfew hours of 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Restrictions also limited hotel occupancy to essential business travelers, closed bars and restaurants to all but take-out dining and canceled cultural events. These restrictions, along with entry regulations, were lifted as of May 19, 2021. 

The country does still require that medical-grade face masks (FFP2 or N95) be worn on public transportation and in all shops, museums and businesses. For details on current restrictions, check here.

As of Jan. 15, 2021, all travelers entering Austria must register electronically for a pre-travel clearance, and according to the U.S Embassy in Austria, all pre-travel test results must be written in German or English and dated within 72 hours (PCR) or 48 hours (Antigen) of the travel departure date. 

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Austria must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Azerbaijan

According to the U.S. Embassy in Azerbaijan, U.S. citizens with legal residence status in Azerbaijan are allowed to enter. Other Americans are currently not welcome. All travelers over the age of 18 must have proof of having completed 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 one). The 14-day quarantine for travelers was lifted on June 2, 2021.

The country is under special restrictions through August 1, 2021. Restaurants, cafes and most other businesses are open; beaches and shopping centers reopened on June 10, 2021; and the Baku metro has reopened for weekday service. Masks are required in all indoor spaces.

Azerbaijan also requires a negative COVID-19 PCR test issued within 48 hours to depart the country. As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Azerbaijan must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Belarus

Belarus is in the middle 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 and the CDC’s is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19, so it may not be the best time to visit—but the country bordering Russia is open to tourism. 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. Land borders are closed to American travelers.

If you can find a flight, you’ll need to get a visa. A COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours is required and travelers from a “red-zone” country (which includes the U.S.) must self-quarantine for 10 days—and complete the full quarantine in Belarus. You’ll also need to fill out a health questionnaire and submit to temperature/health checks on arrival.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Belarus must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Belgium

Brussels, Belgium March 2015. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Brussels, Belgium, March 2015. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Belgium is not allowing Americans into the country, according to the U.S. Embassy in Belgium. Belgium, which has been hard hit by COVID-19, had been under a severe lockdown and restrictions remain.

On Jan. 25, 2021, Belgium banned all leisure/tourism travel for its own citizens and residents and severely restricted entry to just travelers entering the country for approved essential business, family or humanitarian purposes through April 18, 2021. Currently, travel to Belgium by Belgian/EU/Schengen citizens or long-term residents is permitted, but is discouraged. For all other citizens, travel for non-essential purposes remains prohibited. See details here.

Travelers who are permitted to enter must complete a passenger locator form at least 48 hours prior to arrival and present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of departure. Those considered “high-risk” will receive a QR code via text message for testing and must quarantine upon arrival and test again on day seven.

Belgium has also instituted social distancing restrictions that remain in place, including outdoor terrace dining or take-out only services at restaurants. For more information, check the country’s Current Measures updates.

As of Jan. 26, everyone aged two and older traveling to the U.S. from Belgium must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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 Levels of COVID-19.

Bulgaria

Sofia, Bulgaria September 2017. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Sofia, Bulgaria, September 2017. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

U.S. citizens are once again allowed to enter the country as of May 1, 2021, according to the U.S. Embassy in Bulgaria, but only under certain conditions.

Travelers currently allowed to enter are Bulgarian nationals, permanent residents and their family members; citizens of the European Union, the Schengen Agreement States (including San Marino, Andorra, Monaco and Vatican City); citizens of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, Australia, Canada, the United States, Georgia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, the Republic of Korea, Thailand, Tunisia, Uruguay, the United Arab Emirates, Ukraine, North Macedonia, Serbia, Albania, Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Moldova, Israel, Kuwait, the Republic of Belarus, and Turkey.

To enter Bulgaria, a person from the above countries must present one of the following:

  • a vaccination certificate for a completed vaccination course against COVID-19; the vaccination certificate is considered valid 14 days after receiving the final dose and must include the full name of the vaccinated person as per the identification document, date of birth, dates the doses were administered, vaccine name and batch number, name of the producer, details of the vaccine certificate issuing authority and country
  • a positive result from a PCR or antigen test for immunity for COVID-19 for persons who had the infection not more than six months from the date they enter the country
  • a negative result from a PCR test performed within 72 hours of their entry into Bulgaria or a negative antigen test performed within 48 hours of their entry into the country

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Bulgaria must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Croatia

U.S. travelers can once again visit Croatia—but they must have proof of accommodation paid in full in advance of arrival. Croatia had reopened for tourists from all countries, but then on Dec. 1, 2020, the government restricted entry and border crossings and instituted varying levels of lockdown to help limit COVID-19 transmission, and as a result, entry for tourism purposes was not permitted for U.S. citizens. That changed as of April 1, 2021.

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 or rapid Antigen test taken less than 48 hours before arrival
  • a vaccination certificate showing vaccination was completed at least 14 days before entry to Croatia
  • a certificate confirming recovery from a COVID-19 infection with a positive test result having been received within 11 and 180 days of arrival in Croatia

Unvaccinated travelers can 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 accommodation paid in advance in full or they will not be permitted to enter the country. The U.S. Embassy says that “in the case of a multi-destination visit, documentation showing paid accommodation for the first location is sufficient.”

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.

Related: Croatia now allowing travelers to skip testing, isolation if they’re vaccinated

Incoming travelers from the EU and Schengen Area “Green List” countries and those from limited other countries on the EU safe list can enter without producing a negative COVID-19 PCR test; EU and Schengen Area residents from countries not on the list must provide proof of vaccination, recovery from previous infection or a negative PCR test result taken within 48 hours of arrival or take a test upon arrival (at their own expense) and self-isolate under receiving the results.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Croatia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Croatia requires that masks be worn in indoor public spaces and outdoors when social distancing can not be maintained. Current restrictions also mandate outdoor dining or take-out and delivery only by restaurants and bars.

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

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, “the United States is classified as an “Orange” category country. Tourists may travel from the United States to the Republic of Cyprus without mandatory self-isolation provided they have an approved “Cyprus Flight Pass” and have uploaded either proof being fully vaccinated or proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of boarding a flight to Cyprus. Non-vaccinated U.S. travelers must also complete another PCR test upon arrival at their own expense (30 euros) and vaccinated travelers can still be selected for random testing upon arrival. Children under the age of 12 do not require testing.

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 either a negative (PCR or rapid Antigen) test 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 those with a valid Safepass or Flight Pass.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Cyprus must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

The CDC has issued a Level 3: High Level of COVID-19 advisory for Cyprus, while the U.S. State Department’s advisory is Level 3: Reconsider Travel.

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic, which in early and mid-March 2021 experienced the fastest virus spread in Europe, was under an emergency lockdown through April 12, 2021— but cases have since declined. According to the U.S. Embassy in the Czech Republic, Americans were not welcome even before the country began banning all travelers, including those in the EU and Schengen zones, from visiting for tourism purposes. As of June 21, 2021, EU citizens are allowed to enter the Czech Republic for any purpose, including tourism and must complete an online Passenger Locator Form.

The latest updates on restrictions, which now include wearing FFP2 masks (equivalent to N95 masks) in public indoor spaces such as buses, trains and shops, can be found here.

EU travelers from green countries and those from medium and high-risk countries who have proof of being fully vaccinated or immune due to a previous COVID-19 infection in the past 180 days are not required to test pre-travel. Unvaccinated travelers from countries with medium risk and all travelers from high or very high risk countries must show a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours (or an Antigen test taken with 24 hours) and those from high and very high-risk countries must also take a PCR test within five days after entry (if from high-risk) or after five days in the country (if from very high risk) and quarantine until receiving those test results. Those from extreme-risk countries are banned from entry. For details, check here.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from the Czech Republic must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Denmark

Copenhagen October 2015. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Copenhagen, October 2015. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Denmark began welcoming fully vaccinated American tourists on June 5, 2021. Pre-travel testing, testing upon arrival and isolation are not required since the U.S. is an OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation & Development) country and is categorized as Orange. Denmark labels all countries by color—Yellow, Orange or Red—with specific entry requirements for each. Travel restrictions for Denmark can be found here.

Related: Denmark has reopened to fully vaccinated U.S. and U.K. travelers

To enter Denmark as a tourist, fully vaccinated U.S. citizens who are at least 14 days past their final dose of Pfizer or Moderna or their single dose of Johnson & Johnson must present their official vaccination certificate. The U.S. Embassy in Denmark “strongly recommends you print out and carry with you a copy of the Danish government guidelines to demonstrate to airline personnel that you are exempt from COVID-related travel restrictions in place.”

Pre-travel testing is not required for fully vaccinated Americans, who are the only Americans who can enter for tourism; a negative COVID-19 test taken 48 hours before departure is required for unvaccinated Americans with permission to enter for a “worthy purpose.” Denmark also requires testing upon arrival for unvaccinated Americans with permission to enter for a “worthy purpose” or close family connection; and a 10-day quarantine for for unvaccinated travelers (can be shortened with a test nor earlier than day four). Masks are required in many public settings and the fine for failure to wear a face mask, violating gathering limits, or loitering in areas deemed “hotspots” is 2500 Danish Kroner ($400). Entry rules for Denmark can be found here.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Denmark must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Estonia

Tallinn, Estonia May 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Tallinn, Estonia, May 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Estonia is closed to Americans, according to the U.S. Embassy in Estonia. It is open to travelers arriving from other countries in the European Union and the Schengen Zone—although those from countries with high infection rates are required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours, which allows them to shorten a required 10-day quarantine with a second test taken within 6 days of the first. Permitted travelers who have proof of being within six months of being fully vaccinated or having recovered from COVID-19 can enter without having to quarantine. All travelers are required to complete an online declaration of health up to 72 hours prior to arrival. See more information here.

Estonia entered a lockdown on March 11, 2021, to try to stem rising cases. The order has been eased, with shops and museums allowed to reopen at 25% capacity, while restaurants can operate for outdoor dining or takeout and delivery.

Estonia is also open to residents of Australia, New Zealand, Israel, Rwanda and Singapore.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Estonia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Helsinki, Finland August 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Helsinki, Finland, August 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Finland is closed to Americans. The country uses a traffic light model to determine on a weekly basis who is allowed to enter, with testing and quarantine required. Finland had restricted entry from all Schengen countries except Iceland to only those traveling for essential purposes through June 21, 2021. After that date, EU and Schengen residents who are fully vaccinated or within 180 days of having recovered from a COVID-19 infection can enter Finland, but restrictions on external borders (non-Schengen countries) are expected to remain in effect until at least July 11, 2021.

Restrictions on entry will be lifted for travelers arriving in Finland from Monaco, Romania and San Marino; restrictions on entry had already been lifted for those arriving in Finland from the Vatican, as well as Australia, South Korea, Israel, Singapore, Rwanda and New Zealand residents.

For the latest on vaccination, testing and quarantine restrictions, check here. Additional information can be found on the Finnish Border Guards website.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone aged two and older traveling to the U.S. from Finland must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

France

Paris June 2015. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Paris, June 2015. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Since Jan. 31, 2021, France had banned all but essential travel by anyone outside of the European Union and Schengen zone countries—but that all changed on June 9, 2021 when France reopened to tourists from select countries, including the United States, which is now a “green list” country.

Related: France adds US to ‘green’ list—here’s what to expect

All travelers from the U.S. must possess proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to gain entry to France without mandatory quarantine. France uses a “stoplight” system, with three different colors: green, orange and red. Those coming from green countries can enter without restriction if vaccinated, while those in red countries are mostly barred from entry except for essential purposes.

The U.S. is now on the green list along with all Schengen countries, Canada, Israel and others. You can enter France from a green country without having to quarantine if you’re vaccinated or possess a negative COVID-19 test and sign a sword statement attesting to a lack of symptoms and no contact with an infected individual. Here are the requirements:

  • Proof of being fully vaccinated, with the following vaccines accepted: AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson, Moderna and Pfizer
  • If not vaccinated, proof a negative COVID-19 test, which needs to be a PCR or Antigen test taken within 72 hours of boarding

Regardless of where you travel from, you must wait a set amount of time after your COVID-19 vaccine in order to enter France: two weeks after the second injection for two-injection vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca) and four weeks after the injection for single injection vaccines (Johnson & Johnson). If it hasn’t been long enough, simply get a COVID-19 test within 72 hours of departure.

Check the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in France for additional updates.

France, which has been hit hard by the coronavirus, extended lockdown measures and restrictions to all regions on April 3, 2021, with all non-essential services closed. A gradual reopening plan has been rolled out. On May 19, 2021, cafés, bars, and restaurants were allowed to reopen outdoor terraces, non-essential shops reopened. There is still a curfew of 11 p.m. Details are available here.

France now requires that everyone in public spaces wear medical-grade face masks (FFP1 or more protective FFP2 filtering respirators) or fabric masks that meet “Category 1” specifications by blocking more than 90% of particles.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from France must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Georgia

Americans are welcome in the country of Georgia, according to the U.S. Embassy, including those who have documented proof of completed COVID-19 vaccinations and those willing to stay for six months and work from home in the country. However, there continue to be widespread community transmission of the virus and 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. There is also a nationwide curfew from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m.

Unvaccinated U.S. citizens or residents arriving by air through permitted countries are required to complete an application form, present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel and take a second PCR test (at their own expense) on the third day after arrival in Georgia. Fully vaccinated U.S. citizens only need to present their vaccine certificate. Details and links to requirements are available on the U.S. Embassy website.

Related: Work from home in these countries

Georgia had hoped to attract freelancers and self-employed foreigners. Those interested in applying can expect to provide personal information, a certificate of employment and proof of travel insurance (valid for six months). Travelers must submit the application and obtain relevant confirmation documents prior to arriving in Georgia.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Georgia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Germany

Berlin August 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Berlin, August 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

The German government confirmed on June 18, 2020, that Americans will be welcomed as of June 20, 2021.

The U.S. was just removed from the list of countries Germany considers high-risk for the coronavirus. The news was announced by Germany’s health agency, the Robert Koch Institute, during the release of its updated global COVID-19 risk evaluation for countries around the world.

This means that U.S. tourists who have proof they’re fully vaccinated, have recovered from COVID-19 and been cleared by a doctor or have a negative test result will no longer have to quarantine upon arrival.

Related: Germany drops US from COVID-19 risk list, clearing the way for visitors this summer

Germany entered a “hard lockdown” on Dec. 16, 2020, that was extended through May 9, 2021, with some limited easing of restrictions in regions with low cases. There is currently limited entry for just E.U. citizens and residents, similar to the actions taken by other E.U. nations.

Testing and quarantining are required for entry, depending on the traveler’s country of origin or where they have traveled in the past 14 days, as well as their vaccination status, with all unvaccinated travelers required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR or Antigen test result taken within 72 or 48 hours of arrival, respectively.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Germany, the testing requirement is waived for those who are fully vaccinated (15 days after the second shot of a two-dose vaccine or the first shot of a one-dose vaccine) with an approved vaccine, as well as those who have recovered from COVID-19 in the last 6 months unless they are entering from a virus variant area of concern.

The latest updates for travel can be found here. Updates on risk areas are provided by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI).

Currently, overnight hotel stays for tourism purposes are not allowed and Germany now requires that all people wear FFP1 or FFP2 medical-grade face masks when on public transport, at work or in shops.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Germany must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Greece

Athens May 2018. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Athens, May 2018. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Greece began welcoming U.S. travelers on April 19, 2021, after accelerating its plans to reopen for tourism purposes, originally slated to happen on May 14, 2021. Several cruise lines, including Celebrity, have also said they plan to sail the Greek islands from Athens beginning in late June 2021.

Greece still has a relatively high number of cases, after hitting record highs in March and April 2021, and tourists will be subject to the country’s ongoing COVID-19 restrictions and an 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew. Those restrictions are being eased, beginning with cafes, bars and restaurants reopening for outside dining as of May 3, 2021 and museums reopened as of May 14, 2021. Restrictions on travel between regions have also been lifted.

Related: Greece to welcome back tourists on May 14, 2021

All travelers eligible to enter Greece without self-isolation—those residing in E.U. & Schengen Area countries, United States, United Kingdom, Israel, Serbia, United Arab Emirates, New Zealand, Australia, South Korea, Thailand, Rwanda, Singapore, the Russian Federation, North Macedonia, Canada, Belarus, Bahrain, Qatar, China, Kuwait, Ukraine, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Saudi Arabia—should expect to adhere to Greece’s “five lines of defense” strategy. Those lines include:

  • All visitors must be fully vaccinated (14 days or more past completion) or present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of arrival (children age five and under are exempt from testing)
  • A checking system at Greece’s airports and borders, where passengers can be selected randomly to take a rapid test
  • Any visitor who tests positive for coronavirus will be isolated in a “quarantine hotel”
  • All tourism industry workers must be vaccinated (they will move up the priority list once the most vulnerable Greek citizens get the vaccine)
  • Strict adherence to safety protocols such as wearing masks and social distancing.

All travelers must also complete an online Passenger Locator Form (PLF) at least 48 hours before their travel date. The requirement to self-isolate has been lifted for those with a negative test of proof of completed vaccination. Complete details on entry requirements can be found here.

Greece had been a rare bright spot for foreign tourists, but not for Americans until the Greek government announced stricter measures to combat rising COVID-19 cases. It began using a two-tiered system on Nov. 3, 2020, and entered a national lockdown on Nov. 7, 2020, with some minor easing of restrictions in late January 2021. But an uptick in cases in Athens throughout February delayed the city’s gradual reopening, which had been scheduled for March 2021, and lockdown measures continued with easing throughout April and May 2021.

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

Related: Can Americans finally go to Europe?

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Greece must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Hungary

Budapest, Hungary, October 2014. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Budapest, Hungary, October 2014. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Hungary banned foreigners entirely early in the pandemic and began lifting lockdown restrictions on its own citizens in May 2020. But last fall, the country again banned foreigners, including Americans.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Hungary,  only Hungarian citizens and their relatives can enter Hungary, with a few exceptions, and all who do enter are subject to a 10-day quarantine after receiving a health screening at the border. An exception to this is if they can credibly show two negative coronavirus tests taken at least 48 hours apart and taken in Hungary (or one can be taken before arriving in Hungary from a Schengen country, the U.S. or Canada and the other after arrival).

On May 1, 2021, Hungary began easing restrictions, with most indoor hospitality venues limited to those who are vaccinated or immune after a previous infection. There is a nightly curfew beginning at midnight. Hotels are currently only allowed to accept guests traveling for business purposes, not tourism (unless the guest has proof of vaccination/immunity), and restaurants have reopened for both indoor (for vaccinated or immune guests only) and outdoor dining. Shops are open with capacity restrictions. Museums, theaters, zoos and other leisure facilities have also reopened, but only to those who have proof of vaccination or immunity and their underaged family members.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Hungary must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Iceland

Blue Lagoon Iceland
The Blue Lagoon in Iceland. (Photo by Liz Hund/The Points Guy)

Iceland is once again welcoming U.S. travelers—but only if they’ve completed their COVID-19 vaccination or can present proof of a previous infection via a positive antibody test.

Iceland had discussed welcoming back American tourists as early as June 2020 but then changed its mind and a ban on American tourists remained in effect through March 2021. TPG’s Andrew Kunesh booked a last-minute flight shortly after the ban was lifted, but before Iceland’s government decided it needed more time to ensure procedures were in place. You can read his account here.

Related: Travel to Iceland during the coronavirus pandemic—the complete guide

As of April 6, 2021, all U.S. visitors are welcome, assuming they meet one of two criteria:

  • A completed AstraZeneca, Janssen (Johnson & Johnson), Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine
  • A previous COVID-19 infection, as confirmed with a positive antibody test or positive PCR test older than 14 days

Visitors need to pre-register before travel and can present an official paper or electronic COVID-19 vaccine certificate that includes the traveler’s name, date of birth, date and location of vaccination, vaccine administered and the manufacturer and batch or lot number, as outlined on this page. Per the revised April 6, 2021, guidelines, vaccinated U.S. travelers will be required to take a test upon arrival, free of charge. But this requirement is set to be lifted on July 1, 2021. FAQs for travelers can be found here.

Travelers not meeting the above criteria must be visiting from eligible countries, will need to fill out a pre-registration form and get a COVID-19 PCR test at the airport upon arrival. Then, four to five days after this initial test, they are required to get a second COVID-19 test. During that time frame between tests, travelers must self-quarantine until the results of both tests come back negative.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Iceland must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

There is an active volcanic eruption taking place on the Reykjanes Peninsula near the capital, Reykjavik, and the Blue Lagoon, a major tourist attraction, has now reopened for business.

Related: 9 reasons you should visit Iceland this summer

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

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

Ireland

Dublin, Ireland November 2015. Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy.
Dublin, Ireland, November 2015. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Ireland is technically open to Americans, but the Irish government advises against it and a months-long lockdown along with quarantine restrictions have made travel there complicated. The good news: That is changing as the 14-day mandatory hotel quarantine for Americans was recently lifted (travelers still need to quarantine but can test out after five days) and testing and quarantine restrictions are scheduled to be lifted for fully vaccinated U.S. travelers on July 19, 2021, if U.S. case numbers remain low. Details on the latest restrictions can be found here.

Related: Americans will be welcomed back to Ireland without quarantine on July 19, 2021

On Oct. 21, 2020, Ireland decided to reinstitute lockdown, which meant the entire country had been placed on Level 5 lockdown. The country has been easing out of Level 5, with hotels open with strict restrictions (essential travelers only) and restaurants operating on take-out and delivery only. A gradual lifting of restrictions began on April 12, 2021 and continues through May and June, with the full reopening of hotels on June 2, 2021 and outdoor dining available as of June 7, 2021.

Ireland has announced that it will begin new travel entry protocols beginning on July 19, 2021 that align with the EU’s approach to non-essential travel from third-party countries, which includes the U.S. Travelers from a country where the EU emergency brake (to control travel from areas of concern) has not been applied will be able to enter Ireland without testing or quarantine if they present proof of having completed their vaccination.

Those who are unvaccinated will need to present a negative result of a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival, self-quarantine and undergo post-arrival testing. Travelers from countries where an emergency brake has been applied will need both pre-travel and post arrival testing (even if fully vaccinated) as well as elf-quarantine (for vaccinated travelers) and mandatory hotel quarantine (for unvaccinated travelers).

Until July 19, 2021, existing rules apply, which still include a 14-day quarantine for travelers from the U.S. (which can be reduced with a second test). Since Jan. 16, 2021, all arrivals from outside Ireland over the age of six have been required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours prior to arrival and self-isolate for 14 days.

As of March 26, 2021, travelers from countries listed as “designated states” are subject to a 14-day mandatory hotel quarantine, which must be pre-booked and paid for before departure for arrival. The U.S. was removed from the list of designated states as of May 28, 2021, so Americans can now complete their 14-day quarantine period at the address they listed on their Passenger Locator Form. Quarantine can be reduced by taking a COVID-19 PCR test on day five and receiving a negative result. Those under mandatory hotel quarantine can test on day 10 and then finish their quarantine at home or another accommodation.

All visitors must fill out a Passenger Locator Form saying where they will be quarantining. There is a fine of up to $2,860 or six months in jail for arriving without the proper test result upon arrival or for not fulfilling the required quarantine. Details on the latest restrictions can be found here.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Ireland must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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 COVID Level Unknown.

Italy

Milan March 2017. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Milan, March 2017. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Americans are once again allowed to visit Italy for tourism—and with proof of vaccination or a negative pre-travel test, quarantine is no longer required as of June 19, 2021.

Related: Italy is reopening: 11 things I learned as a tourist there this week

In May 2021, Italy initially approved “COVID-tested flights” from the U.S. (on Delta from Atlanta and New York to Rome and Milan as well as on select American and United flights) that allow quarantine-free travel. Passengers on these flights, regardless of vaccination status, must fill out the digital Passenger Locator Form, present a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of boarding, take a rapid test just prior to boarding and then test again upon arrival in Italy. With a negative result on all three tests, travelers do not need to self-isolate for 10 days.

Passengers arriving on other flights were required to self-isolate until June 19, 2021; then Italy lifted quarantine for U.S. travelers (as well as those from other EU countries, Canada and Japan) if they have a certificate showing proof of a completed COVID-19 vaccination or present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 48 hours of departure for Italy. The latest updates by Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs can be found here.

There are some reports Italy will accept tests within 72 hours of arrival, but we would get a test within two days to be safe.

Related: Italy to further relax rules on Americans

Italy has a curfew in place from midnight to 5 a.m. Regions are divided in a color-coded system—white (very low risk), yellow (low risk), orange (high risk) and red (very high risk)—depending on transmission rates, availability of hospital and ICU beds and other parameters. Different restrictive measures apply to each zone.

Related: Italy is reopening to all Americans aboard Delta’s COVID-tested flights

The country has been among the hardest hit in Europe and the government imposed an Easter lockdown through April 6, 2021, with  restrictions in certain regions eased since then as infections have slowed.

 Related: Dreaming of Italy

Travelers from certain countries are restricted from visiting and others (divided into groups of List A, B, C, D and E) must fill out a Passenger Locator Form and provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 48 hours or 72 hours of entering Italy. The new rules also require anyone visiting or transiting from List D and E countries (the U.S. is now a List D country) and not entering Italy on a “COVID-tested flight” to present a negative test result taken within 72 hours of entering Italy and undergo an isolation period of 10 days before taking a second PCR or Antigen test. Updates on restrictions can be found here.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Italy must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Kosovo

Kosovo has reopened its borders to Americans — but the U.S. Embassy in Kosovo urges citizens not to visit, the U.S. State Department’s advisory is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

All foreign citizens entering Kosovo who come from high-risk countries, according to the official list of ECDC, must provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel; those permitted to enter Kosovo without a test must self-isolate for seven days. While testing is currently not required for those traveling from the United States, the U.S. Embassy nonetheless recommends a test for all air travelers to Kosovo:

“A COVID-19 test is not required when departing the U.S en route to Kosovo. However, due to quickly evolving COVID-19 testing requirements worldwide, we strongly recommend that all travelers obtain a COVID-19 test prior to air travel. Airlines, transit points, and destination countries impose a patchwork of different testing requirements and airlines have recently refused boarding to some passengers (including U.S. citizens and Kosovo residents). Airlines have the sole authority to decide who they allow to board their aircraft. Pre-travel testing can help avoid expensive and time-consuming delays or cancellations.”

Pristina International Airport is open to all travelers, according to the embassy. There is a curfew in place and intercity movement restrictions in some high-risk municipalities.

Here’s the heath advisory from the U.S. Embassy in Kosovo: “The health situation is moderate. U.S. citizens report equipment shortages and a lack of space available at local and regional hospitals.”

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Kosovo must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Latvia

Riga, Latvia August 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Riga, Latvia, August 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Latvia, which began a gradual lifting of its state of emergency on April 7, 2021, had gone several months with only essential businesses open and restaurants limited to take-out and delivery only. The country is not currently welcoming American tourists, but has reopened to essential travel from EU countries, as well as to non-EU passport holders that hold EU permanent residence permits.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Latvia, U.S. residents residing in the United States are banned from entering Latvia for non-essential travel (which includes tourism). One exception is to enter with an EU passport if you have one.

Since Jan. 15, 2021, all travelers to Latvia are required to complete an electronic confirmation form no earlier than 48 hours before entering the country or possibly face a fine of up to €2,000, and everyone age 12 and over is required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival. Travelers from outside the E.U./Schengen Zone must also take an pay for a second test upon arrival and self-isolation for 10 days is required for anyone arriving from a country with a high number of cases.

The U.S. Embassy reports that on June 16, 2021, new regulations for travelers entering Latvia went into effect, including allowing vaccinated travelers who can present an interoperable digital EU certificate (either in an electronic smart device or printed out) or a vaccination certificate issued in the EU, the EEA countries, Switzerland or the United Kingdom to travel to Latvia for nonessential travel without a negative COVID-19 test or self-isolation.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Latvia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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. Americans are not allowed in for tourism at this time, according to the U.S. Embassy. But recent reports indicate an announcement on June 23, 2021, by Swiss authorities will allow U.S. travelers to enter by the end of June, so check for updates at that time.

Related: Switzerland could start welcoming vaccinated visitors on June 28

At this time, entry to Liechtenstein (and Switzerland) is permitted for EU nationals and residents of other countries that are not on the list of high-risk countries. Travelers who hold those passports and are traveling to Liechtenstein for essential reasons must fill out an entry form and present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of arrival. Travelers from non-high-risk countries (as of April 5, 2021, the U.S. is no longer considered high-risk) do not have to quarantine; travelers from high-risk countries in the EU are required to self-quarantine for 10 days, with an opportunity to shorten quarantine after seven days with testing.

Switzerland/Liechtenstein has also banned entry from the United Kingdom and South Africa. Shops and museums in the two countries reopened on March 1, 2021, and restaurants and bars (for outdoor seating only) and some indoor cultural and leisure facilities reopened April 19, 2021.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Liechtenstein must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Lithuania

Vilnius, Lithuania May 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Vilnius, Lithuania, May 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Lithuania reopened its borders to other EU members, and as of June 1, 2021, to fully vaccinated Americans. It also has different entry requirements for countries depending on their COVID-19 cases (the list is here). Fully vaccinated travelers do not have to test or quarantine. All travelers, however, must complete a registration form and those from EU countries who have not been vaccinated must present a negative COVID-19 PCR or Antigen test taken within 72 hours of departure and self-isolate for 10 days (with a shortening of time after a negative test on day six). Lithuania entered a national lockdown that is in effect until June 30, 2021, with citizens urged to avoid non-essential travel and work from home.

U.S. passport holders and residents are allowed to enter if they have “a document issued by a medical establishment, a country-specific vaccination certificate, or an international vaccination certificate confirming the complete vaccination with one of the COVID-19 vaccines (COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen [Johnson & Johnson], Comirnaty [Pfizer BioNTech], COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna, or Vaxzevria [Astra Zeneca]) administered under the vaccination schedule approved by the competent authority of the country where the vaccination was carried out,”,according to the U.S. Embassy in Lithuania. The country continually updates its rules for all arrivals from abroad and details can be found here and here.

The U.S. Embassy also notes that since there are no direct flights between United States and Lithuania, it is the traveler’s responsibility to be informed about entry/exit requirements of the countries the traveler intends to transit on the way to/from Lithuania.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Lithuania must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Luxembourg, November 2016. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Luxembourg currently only allows E.U. citizens, E.U. residents, and residents of certain other specific countries to enter for essential reasons only and a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours (or viral Antigen test taken within 48 hours) of travel is required. Proof of completion of a vaccination in the EU with Moderna, Pfizer, Astra-Zzeneca or Johns & Johnson vaccines exempts visitors from testing. Third-country nationals, which includes American travelers, are still prohibited from visiting through at least Sept. 30, 2021.

More information about restrictions can be found on the U.S. Embassy in Luxembourg website. On Oct. 29, 2020, the country adopted new COVID-19 safety measures that limited gatherings, set restrictions for shops and closed restaurants (but both inside and outside dining are now allowed with capacity restrictions); a midnight to 6 a.m. curfew and other restrictions are in effect. Details can be found here.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Luxembourg must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Malta

U.S. citizens had been banned from entering Malta for non-essential travel, but as of June 17, 2021, residents of 38 U.S. states, Washington, DC and Puerto Rico are allowed to visit, according to the U.S. Embassy in Malta. Tourism in Malta reopened on June 1, 2021 to residents of Amber List countries (U.S. states with lower levels of COVID-19 cases and higher levels of vaccination were just added to the Amber List), but travelers from “Red List” states (Alabama, Arkansas, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, Oklahoma, Utah and Wyoming) would only be allowed to enter Malta for tourism purposes if they first spend 14 days in an Amber List country such as Greece, France, Italy, Turkey or Croatia.

Residents of the following states can visit directly from the U.S.: Washington, Oregon, Louisiana, Arizona, West Virginia, Colorado, North Dakota, Indiana, Georgia, Texas, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Tennessee, Iowa, Nebraska, Ohio, South Carolina, New Mexico, Florida, Virginia, Maine, South Dakota, Michigan, Illinois, Delaware, Wisconsin, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, New Jersey, Minnesota, Connecticut, Alaska, New Hampshire, Maryland, New York, Rhode Island, District of Columbia, Massachusetts, Vermont, California.

Related: Travelers from 38 U.S. states are allowed to visit Malta starting June 17

As of March 28, 2021, all travelers from Amber List countries/states can visit but must provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of boarding a flight. Fully vaccinated residents of EU countries on the Red List can visit as of July 1, 2021, but also must show a negative test result taken within 72 hours of arrival in Malta. See the latest details here.

Non-essential shops in Malta were allowed to reopen as of April 26, 2021 and restaurants reopened on May 10, 2021 and can now serve until midnight. Masks are required in public spaces.

Malta is a small island nation in the middle of the Mediterranean, and it began its initial reopening on May 1, 2020. At the time, the country’s Prime Minister Robert Abela said at a news conference, “I am pleased we have managed to weather the storm without having succumbed to pressure to order a total lockdown.” As you can see in the video below, the county had an advertising campaign with the tagline, “Dream Malta now, visit later.”

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone aged two and older traveling to the U.S. from Malta must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mta - Dream Malta Now English
 
Volume 90%
 
 
 
 
 

 

Moldova

Moldova declared a public healthcare emergency on May 15, 2020, and it has been extended until further notice. The country is, however, open to tourism from some countries. According to the U.S. Embassy in Moldova, Americans can now enter Moldova, but the embassy doesn’t specify if that applies to travel for tourism purposes. As of March 5, 2021, travelers age five and older who do enter Moldova must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival. Fully vaccinated travelers are now exempt from testing requirements.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Moldova must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights.

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.

Monaco

The Embassy of Monaco in Washington, DC. reports that as of June 9, 2021, and until further notice, fully vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and Canada are permitted to travel to Monaco (whose immigration is overseen by France) with proof of full vaccination and with a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of boarding or a negative Antigen test taken within 48 hours of boarding. Travelers meeting the above criteria will not need to quarantine upon arrival. Details are here.

France handles immigration and customs for Monaco and will allow entrance non-vaccinated U.S. travelers, but not for tourism. They must have a compelling reason to visit, receive authorization, provide a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of travel and submit to random testing upon arrival as well as seven days of self-isolation.

Monaco’s reigning monarch Prince Albert tested positive and recovered from COVID-19 in 2020 after going into self-quarantine.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Monaco must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for France/Monaco is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level Unkown.

Montenegro

Montenegro is open to Americans. The U.S. Embassy in Montenegro notes that the country now requires travelers to provide one of the following: a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival; a positive antibody test not older than 30 days; or proof that seven days have elapsed since completing a COVID-19 vaccination (one shot or second of two shots). However, there are heavy restrictions on intercity travel and the U.S. State Department’s advisory for Montenegro is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Face masks and social distancing requirements remain in effect for public spaces and shops, but as of May 1, 2021, restaurants, cafes and bars are open at full capacity with a maximum of four people per table, but must close by 11 p.m.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Montenegro must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Netherlands

Amsterdam, Netherland (Photo by Liz Hund/The Points Guy)
Amsterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Liz Hund/The Points Guy)

In November 2020, the Netherlands announced tightened measures to curb the spread of the coronavirus and then entered a tough national lockdown on Dec. 14, 2020; some restrictions have been eased, and shops and restaurants with outdoor seating areas were allowed to open as of April 28, 2021, and a 10 p.m. curfew was lifted. Additional restrictions were lifted throughout May 2021 and on June 5, 2021, the Netherlands entered Phase 3 of its reopening plan.

According to the U.S. Embassy in the Netherlands, Americans are currently not allowed to visit.

On Jan. 20, 2021, the Netherlands instituted tough new testing measures that require all non-EU/EEA nationals to not only present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of boarding a flight to the country but also provide a negative rapid test result taken no more than 24 hours prior to departure. If the PCR test is done within 24 hours of boarding, a second rapid test in not required.

Those who can enter from “safe countries,” in addition to the required testing, are also required to self-quarantine for 10 days (with a test after day 5 ending self-quarantine). The country has a “checklist”  for incoming travelers and for the latest updates on who is allowed to visit, check here.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from the Netherlands must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure and fill out a health declaration before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

(Screenshot courtesy TAV Airports)
(Screenshot courtesy TAV Airports)

North Macedonia is now open to all tourists, including Americans. Skopje International Airport (SKP) and Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport (OHD) reopened on July 1, 2020. But North Macedonia has mandated a 14-day quarantine for all travelers arriving from India. There are also restrictions on public gatherings and social distancing (only outdoor dining is allowed), with a nationwide state of crisis is in effect through June 30, 2021 after cases in the country surged in March and early April 2021.

All arriving passengers will face temperature screening, but there are no quarantine or testing requirements unless passengers are arriving from India. Check the U.S. Embassy in North Macedonia website for updates.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from North Macedonia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Norway

Norway
Reine, Norway. (Photo by Liz Hund/The Points Guy)

Norway is closed to most travelers, according to the U.S. Embassy. The country’s travel ban, enacted on Jan. 29, 2021, allows only Norwegian citizens or foreign nationals with a Norwegian residency to enter. The government also recently enacted strict new regulations regarding activities and capacities in effect until further notice.

All travelers to Norway over the age of 12 who are allowed to enter must now complete a registration form prior to traveling, present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 24 hours of travel and also be tested again for COVID-19 as soon as possible after arrival (usually at the airport and it must take place within one day) and enter and pay for a 10-day quarantine in a quarantine hotel (reduced to 7 days with two negative tests, one upon arrival and a PCR test no earlier than day 7).

On April 29, 2021, Norway also introduced stricter testing requirements for travelers who have been outside the EEA/Schengen area. The latest updates on testing and quarantine can be found here.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Norway must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Poland

Krakow, Poland
Krakow, Poland. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Poland is open only to citizens or legal residents (and their spouses and children) of European Union countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, Georgia, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, Thailand, South Korea, Tunisia, and Australia who meet current exemptions.

To avoid a mandatory 10-day quarantine, any traveler entering Poland from within the Schengen Zone must present a negative COVID-19 PCR or Antigen test taken at least 48 hours prior. Travelers arriving from outside the Schengen Zone must quarantine for 10 days or until they receive a negative result from a test taken within 48 hours of arrival in Poland; those who can show a certificate of vaccination against COVID-19 with an E.U.-approved vaccine are exempt from quarantine.

Americans are not allowed, with the exception of U.S. citizens who have dual citizenship or fall within certain other categories. Check with the U.S. Embassy for specifics. Additional information is also available here.

Poland entered a period of restrictions in late December 2020 that closed hotels to tourists, closed ski resorts and shopping malls, and limited restaurants to take-out and delivery only. Restrictions began to be eased on May 1, 2021, hotels reopened on May 8, 2021 at 50% capacity and outdoor dining is allowed as of May 15, 2021 and indoor dining as of May 29, 2021 (at 50% capacity). Face masks are mandatory in indoor public and public transportation.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Poland must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Portugal

Portugal September 2018. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Portugal, September 2018. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Portugal has reopened to American tourists, according to the U.S. Embassy in Portugal. As of June 15, 2021, U.S. travelers must present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test conducted within 72 hours of departure for Portugal (rapid Antigen tests taken within 24 hours are also accepted). There are specific requirement for Madeira and the Azores. Travelers also face a health screening and those from certain countries must self-quarantine for 14 days. Details are available on the TAP Air Portugal website.

The rules for entry will be reviewed every two weeks, reports the U.S. Embassy, with the next scheduled review set for June 27, 2021.

Related: Portugal is now open to American tourists with a negative COVID-19 test

Portugal remains in a nationwide State of Calamity and masks are mandatory in indoor public spaces and outside when social distancing isn’t possible.

On Feb. 1, 2021, amid rising cases and spiking death rates in the country and the threat of imported cases of COVID-19 variants from abroad, Portugal implemented a lockdown and banned all non-essential international travel for its own citizens for two weeks. The general stay-at-home measures were extended, but since early April 2021 are being eased via a phased reopening. The country’s state of emergency ended on April 30, 2021 with the reopening of shops, museums, cafes and restaurants with hour and capacity restrictions.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Portugal must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Related: What are travel bubbles?

Romania

Romania has reopened to Americans. According to the U.S. Embassy in Romania, as of June 1, 2021, foreign citizens may enter Romania but are subject to a 14-day quarantine, unless they present the required testing (a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of their flight for travelers aged 4-16), or proof of completion of vaccination at least 10 days prior or proof of recovery from COVID-19 in the past 90 days. The Embassy cautions that regulations continue to change so before traveling to Romania, travelers are advised consult their airline as well as the Embassy of Romania in Washington, D.C. for entry requirements.

Per the U.S. Embassy in Romania, some travelers face quarantine requirements depending on whether the traveler’s point of departure is in a yellow zone or green zone. Surging cases in the country this spring increased restrictions that have gradually been relaxed in May and June.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Romania must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Russia

Americans are not currently allowed to travel to Russia, even as the country has mostly reopened businesses and transportation after many restrictions were eased in June 2020.

Since March 18, 2020, the Government of the Russian Federation banned the entry of all foreign nationals, however on Jan. 25, 2021, Russia lifted its travel ban for Finland, Vietnam, India and Qatar. Anyone who is granted permission to enter the country, including those with valid residence permits, must provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival and complete a health form.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Russia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Serbia

According to the U.S. Embassy in Serbia, Americans can visit, but they will need to provide a negative PCR test taken within the previous 48 hours. If a U.S. citizen’s travel originates in the U.S., they can provide either a negative PCR or Antigen test.

There was unrest in Serbia in July 2020 as protests against coronavirus restrictions turned violent, but it seems to have quieted. COVID-19 cases remain problematic and face mask and social distancing measures are in place. On March 22, 2021, all shopping malls, nightclubs, cafes, restaurants and bars (except for takeout and delivery) were ordered to close, but outdoor dining has been allowed to resume. Cultural institutions and public transportation are open but at limited capacity.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Serbia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Slovakia

Slovakia has opened its borders to a few countries in Europe but remains shut out to everyone else. That includes most Americans, per the U.S. Embassy in Slovakia. Only Americans who are immediate family members of a Slovak citizen or receive special permission from the government are permitted to enter.

As of May 28, 2021, according to the U.S. Embassy, Slovakia has divided countries into three groups for border entry requirements: Green, Red and Black. The U.S. is currently a Red country.

All travelers who have visited only Green countries in the prior 14 days and are fully vaccinated (14 days have passed since the second dose of an mRNA vaccine; 28 days have passed since the first dose of a vector vaccine; 14 days have passed since the first dose of either an mRNA or vector vaccine if person has also recovered from COVID-19 within the last 180 days), have recovered from COVID-19 within 180 days, and/or are under 18 years old do not need to present test results or enter self-quarantine. Travelers must register online in advance at korona.gov.sk/ehranica and present the registration confirmation at the border, along with proof of vaccination or recovery.

Unvaccinated travelers over 18 years old who have not recovered from COVID-19 within the last 180 days but have only been present in Green countries in the prior 14 days must register online in advance at korona.gov.sk/ehranica and present the registration confirmation at the border. They then must self-isolate until they receive negative results of a PCR or antigen test taken in Slovakia at any time after entry. Travelers who do not want to take a test may self-isolate for 14 days instead.

All travelers who have visited a Red country in the prior 14 days must self-quarantine regardless of vaccination or recovery status. They must register online in advance and present the registration confirmation at the border. They then may take a PCR test on or after day 8. Self-quarantine ends upon receipt of negative test results, or after 14 days.

All passengers age 10 and older who do not fall into a specific exemption category must fill out an electronic monitoring form and remain in home quarantine until receiving a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken on day 8. Details can be found here.

The country entered a new partial lockdown in December 2020 that was in effect through Feb. 7, 2021. On Feb. 8, 2021, it adopted a new “traffic light” system using regional controls based on the number of hospitalizations. Slovakia also began requiring the use of FFP2 masks in all indoor spaces and on public transportation as of March 15, 2021.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Slovakia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Slovenia

Slovenia has reportedly reopened its borders to some E.U. travelers as well as Americans, but it has a traffic light system of entry requirements. Travelers from countries on the red list must test, be immunized or fully recovered from COVID-19 or they face a mandatory 10-day quarantine on arrival.

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) or provide a negative result of a COVID-19 PCR or rapid Antigen test taken within 48 hours of travel. Those with a prior COVID-19 infection can present a certificate of a positive result of a PCR test, older than 10 days but not older than six months. Details are available here.

Hotels in Slovakia have been permitted to reopen with a maximum of 50% capacity. Museums and shops are open with social distancing restrictions. Restaurants with outdoor terraces are open and indoor dining is allowed with restrictions.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Slovenia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Madrid June 2017. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Madrid, June 2017. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Spain began welcoming back fully vaccinated American tourists on June 7, 2021. Those who are two weeks or more past (and under one year since) their final dose of Pfizer, Moderna or Astra-Zeneca or their one dose of Johnson & Johnson do not require a test to enter.

Unvaccinated travelers from the U.S. cannot enter for tourism purposes and must be traveling for what Spain calls an “exceptional situation,” receive permission from the Spanish government and provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR or Antigen test issued within 48 hours of arrival in Spain. Travelers permitted to enter who have recovered from COVID-19 within the past 180 days can also provide a certificate proving their diagnosis.

Details on entry requirements can be found here.

Related: It’s official: Spain has reopened to fully vaccinated Americans

All arrivals in Spain must fill out the Spain Travel Health (SpTH) form at least 48 hours prior to departure to the country. The U.S. is still considered a third-country risk zone, meaning you will need to attach your corresponding documentation (proof of vaccination, recovery or negative test result) to the SpTH form. That will generate a QR code, which you will need to show at border control on arrival. Children under age 12 who are unvaccinated can travel to Spain with their parents but need their own QR code; children 12 and older must present a vaccination certificate.

The U.S. Embassy in Spain notes that if any documents submitted by U.S. travelers are deemed invalid by Spanish border police, health authorities may require an Antigen test taken at the airport or a PCR test after arrival and/or may not allow the passenger entry into Spain.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Spain must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Sweden

Stockholm, Sweden August 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson)
Stockholm, Sweden, August 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Sweden has become well-known during the coronavirus crisis for not shutting down, instead hoping the population would develop “herd immunity” without hurting the economy or killing too many people. Unfortunately, Sweden has the highest number of deaths and cases in Scandinavia, and cases soared in December 2020 and January 2021, leading to a critical shortage of hospital beds. A third wave of infections is slowing but still ongoing as of mid-May 2021.

On Dec. 14, 2020, the country did enact stricter regulations pertaining to public gatherings and restaurant capacity, including that face masks be worn on public transportation. Face masks had not required and are generally not worn. Sweden also passed a law that as of Jan. 10, 2021, allows the government to use tougher emergency lockdown-type restrictions, including closing certain businesses.

All non-essential travel to Sweden from non-E.U./EEA countries remains banned through August 31, 2021 (unless the person qualifies for an exception) and a negative COVID-19 test is required for travelers from other EEA countries through June 30, 2021, with the exception of travelers from Norway, Denmark, Finland and Iceland, who can enter without a test. Testing has been required since Feb. 6, 2021 with all visitors required to test needing a negative COVID-19 PCR or Antigen test result taken within 48 hours of travel.

There is no timeline for when Americans will be able to visit, according to the U.S. Embassy in Sweden.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Sweden must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Lucerne, Switzerland April 2016. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Lucerne, Switzerland, April 2016. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Americans are not allowed in for tourism at this time, according to the U.S. Embassy in Switzerland. But recent reports indicate an announcement on June 23, 2021 by Swiss authorities will allow U.S. travelers to enter by the end of June, so check for updates at that time.

Related: Switzerland could start welcoming vaccinated visitors on June 28

At this time, entry to Switzerland is permitted for residents of countries in the E.U. and those around the world that are not on the list of high-risk countries. Travelers who hold those passports and are traveling to Switzerland for essential reasons from a country not deemed high-risk (the U.S. and the U.K. were removed from the high-risk list as of April 5, 2021, but travel is still restricted) must fill out an entry form and present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of arrival. Travelers from non-high-risk countries no longer have to quarantine; all other travelers are required to self-quarantine for 10 days, with an opportunity to shorten quarantine after 7 days with testing.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Switzerland, while American tourists are not currently welcome, exceptions may be made for business travel.

To combat rising cases in early 2021, the Swiss government put in place additional restrictions, which have been eased in phases. Shops and museums reopened on March 1, 2021 and on April 19, 2021, restaurants and bars reopened for outdoor dining only, with indoor seating reopening on May 31, 2021.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Switzerland must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Turkey

Istanbul, Turkey May 2018. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Istanbul, Turkey, May 2018. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

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. However, cases have been surging in Turkey and on April 29, 2021, the country entered a nationwide lockdown through May 17, 2021, which prohibited the movements of citizens not tourists, and limited shop hours and restricts restaurants to delivery only.

On May 16, 2021, the government announced a gradual normalization period starting on May 17, 2021 (and extended on May 31, 2021) that imposed a curfew from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. from Monday through Saturday and a full lockdown on Sunday beginning at 10 p.m. on Saturday and ending at 5 a.m. on Monday. Restaurants are still open for delivery and take-out only. Tourists are exempt from restrictions. Check the U.S. Embassy website for details.

Related: Turkey is open to Americans

Since Dec. 30, 2020, all international travelers six years of age and older are required to have a negative COVID-19 PCT test result taken within 72 hours of travel and submit it at airline check-in. Travelers without the required test results will not be allowed to board flights or enter the country. (But As of May 15, 2021, a PCR test will not be requested from passengers arriving to Turkey from Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand, South Korea, Israel, Japan, United Kingdom, Latvia, Luxembourg, Ukraine and Estonia). Since March 15, 2021, all travelers six 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 for infection, 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.

Only passengers who are Turkish citizens and holders of residency cards or blue cards are allowed to travel to Turkey from Brazil and South Africa and they must undergo a 14-day quarantine (with testing on day 10) and any passenger who has visited India in the past 10 days will be required to quarantine for 14 days in a government-selection accommodation and get tested on day 14.

Restrictions put into place in September 2020 mandate the wearing of face masks at all times when in public. On March 1, 2021, Turkey’s government announced a four-tier system for local COVID-19 related restrictions. Provinces are now divided into 4 risk groups: low (blue), medium (yellow), high (orange), and very high (red) based on infection and vaccination rates. 

Travelers should note a couple of precautions unrelated to COVID-19:

  • The U.S. State Department currently advises against travel to Turkey due to concerns over COVID-19, terrorism and arbitrary detention. Travelers are strongly advised to avoid the areas bordering Iraq and Syria due to terrorist activity.
  • U.S. travelers will still need to apply for a visa before entering Turkey. You can do so via e-visa application, which takes about three minutes.

The State Department’s travelers’ checklist is here.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Turkey must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Ukraine

Per the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine’s website, U.S. citizens are currently able to enter the country. All U.S. citizens age 12 and older entering Ukraine from the U.S. or another “Red Zone” country are required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of arrival, a negative rapid Antigen test or a document confirming the receipt of a full course of vaccination against COVID-19 with vaccines on 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.

Ukraine is under adaptive quarantine until August 31, 2021, and mask-wearing is mandatory on public transportation and in indoor public spaces.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone aged two and older traveling to the U.S. from Ukraine must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

United Kingdom

London November 2016. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
London November 2016. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Americans can travel to the United Kingdom, but are strongly advised not to. Those who do visit will face pre-travel testing, a 10-day quarantine, and in most cases, additional tests on days 2 and 8. In England only, quarantine can be reduced after one negative COVID-19 PCR test taken on day 5 under its Test to Release scheme. The U.K. also now requires all arriving travelers to fill out a passenger locator form within 48 hours of travel and to present proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of departure for the U.K. Lists of red, amber (the U.S. is amber) and green countries, which dictates requirements, can be found here.

On Feb. 8, 2021, the U.K. also increased the fine for non-compliance and anyone who fails to comply will be subject to a fine of 1,000 pounds ($1,360). The government also revealed stiff fines and even jail time for those who try to circumvent the mandates or lie on their required passenger locator forms; the latter could be a 10,000 pound ($13,789) fine or 10 years in jail. Details are here.

COVID-19 infections and deaths have begun to level off in the U.K., after hitting record highs in January 2021—although the prevalence in Britain of the variant first identified in India is of current concern. Lockdown measures are gradually being eased in England and Wales with some shops having reopened and restaurants and pubs permitted to open for outdoor dining on April 12, 2021; Scotland has also begun to lift its restrictions in phases. All four nations that comprise the U.K. have separate testing and quarantine requirement: England’s are here, Scotland’s are here, Northern Ireland’s are here and Wales’s are here.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his team announced on April 5, 2021, that the country will introduce a “traffic light” system for international travel beginning as early as May 17, 2021. Passengers coming from so-called “green” countries will not need to quarantine on their arrival in the U.K., but they will need to test prior to entry and on their return from travel. But on May 7, 2021, it was announced that U.S. citizens would not be among that group. This includes fully vaccinated Americans.

Johnson also said on April 23, 2021 that hopefully all restrictions will be lifted by June 21, 2021, but that has now been pushed to July 19, 2021 as a result of the spread of the Delta variant that first emerged in India.

Related: Americans’ hopes for visiting the U.K. just hit with a major setback

The U.K. has been especially hard-hit by the coronavirus and the new restrictions are a result of the chaos that erupted in December 2020 when a more infectious COVID-19 variant was found to be widely circulating in London and southeastern England. As a result, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) issued a Level 3: High Level of COVID-19 advisory for the U.K. The U.S. State Department’s advisory is Level 3: Reconsider Travel.

Any American citizen or resident age two and older returning from the U.K. to the U.S. must present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of flying (now a requirement for all international travelers to the U.S., effective Jan. 26, 2021) or documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days.

Related: Everything we know about the U.K. quarantine.

The quarantine rules do not apply to international passengers transiting U.K. airports.

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

Central America

Belize

(Photo by Lomingen / Getty Images)
(Photo by Lomingen/Getty Images)

Philip Goldson International Airport (BEZ) 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 and anyone who is fully vaccinated against COVID-19 can now visit without pre-travel testing by presenting proof of vaccine completion at least two weeks prior to arrival.

All visitors to Belize must download the Belize Health App and complete the required information within 72 hours of travel. Those who have not yet been vaccinated must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 96 hours or a Rapid Antigen test (by Sophia, SD Biosensor or Abbott/Panblo) taken within 48 hours of boarding their flight or they will be tested on arrival for $50. If a passenger tests positive and is notified by the Belize authorities, they must quarantine at a government-approved hotel for 14 days.

Related: Planning your trip to Belize during coronavirus

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.

Belize currently has a nationwide curfew from 10 p.m. to 4:59 a.m., but no regional travel restrictions. Tourists are, however, encouraged to remain within established “safe corridors.” Restaurants are open with capacity restrictions as well as for outdoor dining, takeout and delivery.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Belize must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in Belize have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

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

Costa Rica

Costa Rica began its reopening in September 2020, and on Nov. 1, 2020, began welcoming visitors from all 50 U.S. states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico — without the need for a negative COVID-19 PCR test.

To enter Costa Rica, all travelers must complete a digital form called HEALTH PASS, available within 48 hours of travel. A form needs to be submitted for each individual traveler, including minors. It is also mandatory that all travelers have travel insurance that will cover accommodations (minimum of $2,000) in case of quarantine and medical expenses (minimum of $50,000) due to COVID-19 illness. For details, click here.

Most businesses are open and face coverings are mandatory in all indoor public settings. Beaches are open and national parks are welcoming visitors at 50% capacity.

Related: Costa Rica is open to U.S. travelers and you don’t need a COVID test to get in

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Costa Rica must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted. Many resorts in Costa Rica have begun offering on-property rapid Antigen and PCR tests to guests prior to departure for the U.S., so check your resort’s policy before traveling.

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

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. The country has, however, has banned visitors from both the United Kingdom and South Africa, or anyone who has visited either country in the past 30 days, because of the new COVID-19 variants in both countries.

Local businesses are open with no restrictions. According to the U.S. Embassy in El Salvador, entering visitors (aged two and older) must adhere to the following guidelines:

  • The government of El Salvador is requiring all airlines to obtain from their international passengers ages two and older, a printed original negative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) test result issued within 72 hours of the scheduled arrival at El Salvador to allow them to board. (Note: the 72 hours is counted from the date and time of the reception of the test result, NOT from the time a sample is collected). The printed lab report must state that the test is RT-PCR.
  • As of March 29, 2021, adult travelers who have completed their COVID-19 vaccinations can present proof of vaccination instead of a negative PCR test, but the embassy cautions travelers to check with their airline to ensure that it will allow you to board without a negative test.
  • Wear face masks and practice social distancing in all public settings, including at the 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. Embassy notes, however, that the Salvadoran Ministry of Health can place municipalities under special quarantine with little or no prior notice when a high number of COVID-19 cases is detected.

Beginning Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from El Salvador will need to show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Guatemala

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

According to the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala, arriving passengers age 10 and older must present a negative COVID-19 PCR or Antigen test conducted within 72 hours of arrival, proof of vaccination completion no less than two weeks before arrival, or proof of recovery from COVID-19 within three months of arrival. They must also complete a Heath Pass. Any non-resident foreigners presenting symptoms of COVID-19 upon arrival may be denied entry to Guatemala.

Current protocols for travelers require airlines to confirm the entering visitor’s negative coronavirus test result, completed vaccination or recovery from infection or boarding will be denied. Upon arrival, travelers must pass through health checkpoints and soldiers are enforcing the mandatory use of masks. There have been restrictions on hotels and other lodging. Not all hotels and restaurants are fully open. 

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Guatemala must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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 present a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of check-in at the airport and arrival or proof of being 14 days 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.

Non-resident Hondurans and tourists from the United Kingdom and South Africa, or anyone who has visited or transited through those countries within the past 21 days, are banned from entering Honduras. 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. Exiting travelers must also complete another pre-check form online.

There is a national curfew of 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. Bars and nightclubs are closed and most businesses are required to operate with limited hours and reduced capacity.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Honduras must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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
Jinotega, Nicaragua. (Photo by Liz Hund/The Points Guy)

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 two U.S. carriers (American and United) have set tentative dates for late summer and fall resumption of flights. 

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.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Nicaragua must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Panama

Panama February 2016. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Panama February 2016. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Panama began reopening its airport back in late August 2020 and reopened to tourism on Oct. 12, 2020, with one of the most comprehensive reopening guides. But widespread infections in late 2020 and early 2021 and a phased reopening plan have slowed progress. The U.S. Embassy in Panama notes on its website that the CDC has issued a Level 3: High Level of COVID-19 and the U.S. State Department has issued a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory.

Panama currently requires travelers to register via an online health affidavit and present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or Antigen test taken within 48 hours of arrival. Anyone unable to obtain a negative coronavirus test within that time frame can take a COVID-19 rapid Antigen test at the airport upon arrival (cost: $50), but if the result is positive they must quarantine for 14 days in a hotel. Details are available here.

Effective May 3, 2021, travelers arriving in Panama who have been in or who transited through the United Kingdom, India, South Africa or any country in South America must provide a negative COVID-19 test result taken within the last 48 hours and also undergo molecular testing upon arrival (at their own expense). Passengers who test positive will be transferred directly to a hotel-hospital for a 14-day quarantine; those who test negative must undergo a 3-day quarantine at a hotel-hospital.

Panama has also instituted a 12 a.m. nationwide curfew along with stricter curfews paired with movement restrictions that vary by region, depending in infection rates.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Panama must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

South America

Argentina

(Photo by Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images)

Argentina has one of the world’s strictest travel bans, restricting all international visitors indefinitely, according to the U.S. Embassy in Argentina. Some international flights have resumed, but they are limited and only Argentine citizens and foreign residents of Argentina, along with some essential and government workers, are allowed at this time.

No tourists can visit, 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.

All permitted arrivals (who have received a port of entry letter) must present a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of travel, be tested by Argentine authorities upon arrival, have proof of health insurance valid for COVID-19 treatment in Argentina, and self-isolate for seven days.

The country, which like much of South America is still battling high levels of COVID-19, has extended current restrictions for the foreseeable future.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Argentina must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Bolivia

Bolivia had been off-limits to tourists, but the country is now open to visitors, according to the U.S. Embassy in Bolivia. However, the U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for Bolivia is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 4: Very 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 five years old and younger are exempt)
  •  Quarantine for at least 10 days after entering Bolivia (diplomats are exempt)
  • Submit a sworn statement of location of stay within Bolivia
  • Take another PCR test 7 days after arrival (the cost of this test 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.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Bolivia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Brazil

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil May 2018. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Rio de Janeiro, May 2018. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Brazil has the most coronavirus cases in South America as well as a COVID-19 variant that has caused many countries to ban entry of travelers from Brazil and continues to spike cases to record levels in the country (roughly 2 million monthly cases in both March and April 2021) causing hospitals to be at or close to capacity. Daily cases remain at a very high level.

A travel ban on foreigners entering Brazil, however, was lifted at the end of July 2020. 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 and complete a Traveler’s Health Declaration form.

The U.S. Embassy also notes that international flights to Brazil originating in or passing through the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland are currently prohibited and foreign travelers coming from or passing through the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland in the last 14 days will not be permitted to board flights to Brazil.

Despite ongoing surges in infections, the Brazilian government has not officially imposed any quarantine restrictions and President Jair Bolsonaro has denied the need for them, insisting that only the elderly and other high-risk populations should stay home. There is a recommendation, however, that anyone experiencing symptoms enter a voluntary self-quarantine for 15 days.

Brazilians are currently not allowed to travel to the U.S., which has also banned entry by any foreign nationals who have been to Brazil in the past 14 days.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, every U.S. citizen or permanent resident age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Brazil must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Chile

A trip to Chile is no longer possible, at least not right now, as the country has temporarily suspended entry by all non-resident foreigners until at least June 30, 2021. Americans had been allowed to visit Chile since Nov. 23, 2020, according to the U.S. Embassy in Chile, when the country began to gradually reopen its borders to foreign visitors via Santiago Airport.

Anyone who is currently allowed to enter is required to present three documents: a completed Affidavit of Travelers electronic form (done within 48 hours of travel); proof of a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to boarding their final flight to Chile; and proof of a health insurance policy that provides coverage for COVID-19 and related health issues during the traveler’s stay in Chile.

Since Dec. 31, 2020, anyone entering Chile with the three documents described above has also been required to undergo a 10-day quarantine, with a test taken on the 7th day and a negative result releasing them from quarantine. But as of March 31, 2021, the government said the first five days of quarantine must be spent in a “transit hotel” (at the traveler’s cost) and after receiving a negative test, travelers will be released to finish their quarantine at their chosen hotel or residence. All non-resident foreigners are also required to complete a 14-day “Period of Vigilance for Travelers,” by reporting their location and health condition to authorities daily via email.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Chile must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Chile is under a State of Emergency through June 2021 and much of the country is under mandatory quarantine restrictions, which vary by region and neighborhood; some movement between regions if restricted, there is a nationwide 9 p.m. curfew and face masks are required in public.

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

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 includex tourists. But cases have been surging since mid-March 2021 and regional curfews and restrictions were put in place as of April 5, 2021. Depending on reported ICU capacity data, curfews can start as early as 6 p.m. or as late as midnight and end at 5 a.m. Anti-government protests also broke out in Bogota in late April 2021.

Related: Colombia is open, but should you go?

Since Jan. 7, 2021, all travelers to Colombia had been required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 96 hours of their departure flight. But that requirement was recently lifted and a pre-travel test is no longer required—despite a continuing surge of COVID-19 cases. Current requirements only 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 are available here.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Colombia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Ecuador

Quito, Ecuador October 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Quito, Ecuador October 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Ecuador is again open for Americans. All arriving passengers age three and older are now required to present results of a negative COVID-19 PCR tor rapid Antigen test taken within three days (72 hours) prior to arrival or a vaccination card showing completion of COVID-19 vaccination (or proof/medical certificate from their country of origin documenting recovery from COVID-19 at least 30 days prior to arrival), per the U.S. Embassy in Ecuador. Note: This is a change, as of March 22, 2021; the previous requirement for a negative test result had been 10 days.

There are special requirements for the Galapagos Islands, where a negative COVID-19 test taken within 96 hours must be presented by all travelers (even if vaccinated) upon arrival in Galapagos; this can be the same test if you are transiting directly to the Galapagos upon arrival in Ecuador and your test is within required the timeframe. According to the U.S. Embassy, travelers to the Galapagos also need a “salvoconducto” from their tour operator, and should contact the operator directly for that document.

Quito and Guayaquil airports are open and airlines are now required to verify that all travelers traveling to Ecuador have a negative test result (or proof of vaccination) before allowing them to board. Rapid Antigen testing may also be conducted upon arrival and if the test is positive the traveler will be required to isolate in a government shelter for 10 days. As long as the traveler has a negative test result and doesn’t display any symptoms upon arrival, quarantine is not required. Ecuador has instituted some regional curfews.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Ecuador must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Related: Ecuador ditches quarantine

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.

Guyana

Americans can visit Guyana, according to the U.S. Embassy, but there has been an uptick in cases throughout May 2021. Travelers must provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel to avoid a second test upon arrival and upload it electronically via an online Passenger Locator Form at least 24 hours before arrival. Passengers must also provide a copy of the test result (in English) to their airline at check-in. Those with tests dated within 4-7 days of travel will need to test again in Guyana at a cost of $85, collected at check-in by the airline. Details can be found here.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Guyana must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

There is a nationwide curfew from 10:30 p.m. to 4 a.m. Restaurants are open for outdoor dining, delivery, drive-thru, curbside pickup and take-out until 9:30 p.m.; indoor dining is allowed at 40% capacity with additional restrictions.

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 last fall and on Oct. 2, 2020, reopened Silvio Pettirossi International Airport. Some regular commercial flights then resumed in November 2020. However, COVID-19 cases in the country surged throughout March and April 2021, reaching record highs, and restrictions on gatherings and dining capacity remained through the month of May 2021.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Paraguay, the country ended its required quarantine for foreigners on Nov. 16, 2020, but everyone age 10 and older entering Paraguay must present a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR or NAAT test result taken within 72 hours of arrival. Those who have recovered from COVID-19 in the past 14-90 days may enter without a test. Paraguay requires a visa, which for Americans is available upon arrival.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Paraguay must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

After a prolonged state of emergency, Peru began Phase 4 of its economic reactivation on Oct. 1, 2020, including the resumption of a limited number 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 pre-travel testing is required for all visitors, getting a negative Antigen test result upon arrival is required to avoid a 14-day quarantine, regional restrictions are in effect, domestic flights are currently limited and the CDC maintains a Level 3: High Level of COVID-19 health advisory for the country while the State Department’s advisory is Level 3: Reconsider Travel. Peru has had a sustained high level of COVID-19 infections throughout April and May 2021.

All passengers age 12 and older must present a negative COVID-19 PCR or Antigen test result taken within 72 hours of departure for Peru (children under 12 can provide a “certificate of health issued by a medical doctor” in lieu of a test) and complete an online electronic Affidavit of Health and Geolocation Authorization administered by Migraciones. To avoid a 14-day quarantine, arriving travelers can submit to an Antigen test upon arrival in Peru; if negative, they don’t have to quarantine.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Peru must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

With cases rising, Peru instituted regional risk metrics of High, Very High and Extreme, based on COVID-19 risk—Lima has been listed as Very High through at least June 20, 2021— subject to review every 21 days. Nightly curfews of 8 p.m. or 9.p.m. remain in effect in many regions, where restaurants are open at reduced capacity and bars and cinemas remain closed. Double face masks are now required to enter crowded indoor spaces such as shopping malls and supermarkets.

Machu Picchu, one of Peru’s top tourist destinations, is open at reduced capacity with strict social distancing measures in place.

The Peruvian government continues to ban any traveler who has been in Europe or South Africa over the past two weeks until further notice.

Uruguay

Foreigners and non-residents are barred from visiting the country, according to the U.S. Embassy in Uruguay, although an online application system introduced on Oct. 26, 2020, allows for limited entry of some non-citizen family members and essential workers. Limited commercial flights have resumed.

All arriving passengers are required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test, carried out up to 72 hours before the start of the trip and conducted by a laboratory in the country of origin or another country in transit. Also required: an affidavit stating the absence of symptoms and contact with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 cases in the 14 days prior to admission; proof of medical insurance with specific coverage for COVID-19; contact information (phone number) in Uruguay for traceability. Visitors are also required to self-isolate for seven days and take a second COVID-19 test or self-isolate for 14 days.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Uruguay must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

This South American country has been one of the world’s most at-risk nations amid the coronavirus pandemic. PBS reports that the humanitarian crisis currently being exasperated by the coronavirus pandemic.

All international travel — suspension of commercial flights and closure of land and sea borders — had been shut down, but according to the U.S. Embassy in Venezuela, limited flights resumed in early November 2020.

The U.S. State Department, which has been operating its embassy in Venezuela virtually because of unrest in the country, strongly advises against travel to Venezuela has has issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory. Current entry requirements are that U.S. travelers must apply for an 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 by the Maduro regime). There are health screenings upon arrival, but no quarantine is currently required.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone aged two and older traveling to the U.S. from Venezuela must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Asia

Cambodia

Cambodia has opened back up to visitors, including Americans, but not for tourism purposes. Per the U.S. Embassy in Cambodia, there are still severe restrictions.

All visitors allowed to enter the country need to provide a test result proving they are COVID-19 free taken within 72 hours of their arrival in Cambodia. They will also need to pay a deposit of $2,000 upon arrival for mandatory COVID-19 testing and potential treatment, purchase a local health insurance package for $90 (valid for 20 days) and quarantine in official facilities/hotels until getting a second test result on Day 13.

Also complicating travel to Cambodia: The country has suspended e-visa and visa-on-arrival programs until further notice and the U.S. Embassy reports that only applications for “diplomatic, official and sponsored business-like visas” are being issued.

Cambodia has once again imposed some regional business closures and restrictions on travel due to outbreaks in late February and March 2021. There are regional curfews and also travel restrictions in certain provinces that have been deemed “Red Zones.”

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Cambodia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

China

China was where COVID-19 emerged, and the country suspended entry for nearly all foreigners and slashed the volume of international passenger flights to and from the country in March 2020. Strict anti-travel measures remain in place. Flights began to resume last summer 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, as well as IGM antibody tests (with special requirements for individuals vaccinated with Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccines), must be performed in the departure city, and a 14-day quarantine after arrival is required. Details can be found here.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from China must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong October 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Hong Kong, October 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Hong Kong Airport began allowing transit passengers back in June 2020, 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.

The most recent regulations state that all non-Hong Kong residents arriving by plane from anywhere other than Mainland China, Macau, Australia or New Zealand in the past 14 days will be denied entry.

The U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong and Macau says that only U.S. citizens with Hong Kong residency, diplomats, and U.S. citizens that have not traveled outside of mainland China, Macau, Australia or New Zealand in the past 21 days are permitted to enter Hong Kong.

Hong Kong has banned passengers from Group A1 countries (South Africa, Brazil, India, Nepal, Pakistan and the Philippines) who have been there in the past 21 days or who transited through those countries for more than two hours, from even boarding flights to Hong Kong until further notice.

Passengers from Group A2 (Ireland and Indonesia) are now allowed to board flights but must present a negative COVID-19 nucleic acid test taken within 72 hours of flight departure and quarantine, show a reservation for 21 days at a designated quarantine hotel and quarantine for 21 days upon arrival with self monitoring for seven days after that and compulsory testing on day 26 after arrival.

Passengers from 30 Group B countries (including U.S. citizens who are Hong Kong residents but have stayed in a Group B country over the past 14 days) must present a negative COVID-19 nucleic acid test taken within 72 hours of flight departure along with a designated quarantine hotel reservation and quarantine there for 21 days upon arrival (or 14 days if fully vaccinated).

Complete details on entry requirements and quarantine for travelers by country (Groups A to D) are here.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Hong Kong must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

India

India has been experiencing a devastating surge in COVID-19 cases since mid-March 2021 and recently overtook Brazil as the country with the second-highest number of infections (29 million as of mid-June 2021), after the United States. The death rate soared through mid-May 2021 and hospital beds and oxygen supplies are scarce. A number of countries have sent aid and supplies.

As of May 4, 2021, the U.S. has banned all foreign nationals from entering the U.S. if they have been in India over the previous 14 days. A number of other countries have also banned travel from India.

India announced in March 2020 that it was not allowing foreigners into the country and there is no word yet on when foreign tourists might be welcome again. Some international flights are operating, but only for humanitarian or essential travel. Some business travelers are also being allowed in. Americans must have an emergency authorization or business visa to visit.

According to the U.S. Embassy in India, all international passengers must upload a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of travel to the Air Suvidha portal and submit a self-declaration form 72 hours prior to the start of travel. Passengers may be tested again upon arrival (at their own cost), depending on where they have traveled from or transited through (the U.S. Embassy website has details) 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.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from India must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Visit the New Delhi Airport website for the latest updates to COVID-19 protocols, which vary by Indian state.

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

Indonesia

Indonesia had been reopening gradually in 2020, but in August it canceled plans to reopen Bali until a yet-to-be-determined date. And in January 2021, as cases in the country topped one million (they now number more than 1.9 million), Indonesia also restricted foreigners from traveling to or transiting through Indonesian territory until further notice, unless they have a valid residence permit.

The Indonesian government has allowed airlines to resume domestic flights with certain restrictions. International travel for tourism is still banned, but there are a limited number of exceptions for entry. According to the U.S. Embassy in Indonesia, all foreign visitors must already have an existing valid visa or residence permit. Visa-free and visa-on-arrival entry for all foreign travelers, including U.S. citizens, remains suspended. Visitors must also have a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel and are required to undergo a health screening upon arrival (which will include another test) and mandatory quarantine in a government-designated hotel for five days, followed by a third test. A negative result is required for release.

Since April 23, 2021, Indonesia has banned entry by any foreign national who has been in India in the past 14 days.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Indonesia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Japan

Tokyo April 2017.
Tokyo, April 2017. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

On Dec. 28, 2020, Japan banned all foreign nationals who are not legal residents from entering the country until further notice, after several cases of the COVID-19 variant first reported in the United Kingdom and South Africa were detected. Currently, the ban applies to travelers who have spent the past 14 days in 159 countries, including the United States.

On Jan. 7, 2021, with cases spiking in Tokyo, which will host the delayed Olympic Games beginning on July 23, 2021, Japan declared a state of emergency in the city and three surrounding prefectures; an additional eight prefectures were added a week later. As cases continued to suge throughout April 2021, Japanese authorities declared a third state of emergency in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo prefectures. With cases still on the rise, the country on May 7, 2021 extended restrictions through the end of the month and added two additional prefectures, before seeing a decline in cases. The state of emergency is slated to be lifted for Tokyo and nine other provinces on June 20, 2021.

Japan originally lifted its nationwide state of emergency in late May 2020 and the country had experienced a reopening of its economy, but it maintained its entry ban for nearly 111 countries and regions — including the United States. Some Americans with dual citizenship and/or who were cleared by the government in advance were able to visit until December 2020. Limited business travel had been allowed to resume, but no tourism had been allowed, according to the U.S. Embassy in Japan. Visa-free travel remains suspended.

The Japanese government is currently requiring all returning citizens or residents as well as foreign travelers with permission to enter to submit a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of their international departure, be tested upon their arrival in Japan, submit a detailed itinerary that includes accommodations, and quarantine for 14 days. Visitors also need to pledge to refrain from using public transportation for 14 days. Those who violate these measures face deportation. Details are available here.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Japan must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Japan was set to host the Olympic Summer Games in July 2020, but that date was pushed back to late July 2021. Olympic organizers have announced that no foreigners will be allowed into Japan to attend the Games as spectators.

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

Kazakhstan

The land-locked central Asian nation of Kazakhstan is closed to most Americans, according to the U.S. Embassy in KazakhstanInternational flights from Azerbaijan, China, South Korea, Czech Republic, Germany, and the United Arab Emirates have resumed. 

U.S. citizens are not allowed except in rare cases and require a pre-approval, a visa and a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours (3 days) of arrival. Tourists are not welcome.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone aged two and older traveling to the U.S. from Kazakhstan must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Kyrgyzstan

The U.S. Embassy in Kyrgyzstan 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 healthcare services. Those who do visit Kyrgyzstan via airports in Bishkek, Osh and Issyk Kul will need to present 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. Fully vaccinated U.S. travelers can show their vaccination card and be exempt from pre-travel testing as of June 19, 2021. Children under age five are exempt from testing requirements. Land border entry by Americans is not allowed at this time

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.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Kyrgyzstan must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Macau

Macau October 2019. Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy.
Macau, October 2019. Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy.

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

According to the U.S. Consulate General, as of May 6, 2021 all travelers arriving from Hong Kong must present proof of a negative nucleic acid COVID-19 test conducted within 24 hours. Travelers who have been in mainland China or Taiwan 14 days before entry must present proof of a negative nucleic acid COVID-19 test conducted within the past 7 days. Travelers arriving from any other place must present proof of a negative nucleic acid COVID-19 test conducted within 72 hours.

The Consulate also notes that as of April 27, 2021, Macau residents who have been in low risk areas of mainland China for the past 14 days and have not been to any foreign country in the past 21 are exempt from quarantine. Macau residents who have visited Taiwan or Hong Kong, but have not traveled to any other country in the past 21 days, must complete 14 days of quarantine. Residents who have visited any other foreign country in the past 21 days will be subject to a 21-day compulsory quarantine at a designated location, followed by another 7 days of health self-management.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Macau must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia September 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, September 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Malaysia is still not allowing tourists. In fact, travel restrictions on all foreign nationals—with very limited exceptions for certain long-term pass holders and pre-approved short-term business travelers—have been extended until further notice. 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 72 hours of departure for Malaysia and pay for a 14-day quarantine at an assigned location (this applies to travelers from most countries, including the United States, while those from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Pakistan must quarantine for 21 days). There will be a test on day 10 or 18 of quarantine depending on the traveler’s country of origin. Malaysia has also barred flights to and from India.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Malaysia, the entire country remains under a “Full Movement Control Order” with restrictions through at least June 28, 2021.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Malaysia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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 3: High Level of COVID-19.

The Maldives

The Maldives had announced one of the most liberal opening policies in the world in July 2020, but according to the U.S. Mission to the Maldives, the island nation has since placed restrictions on tourists. Cases have been increasing since late April 2021 and certain islands with confirmed COVID-19 cases have been placed under lockdown. As of May 13, 2021, the Maldives also temporarily banned entry by visa holders from India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Afghanistan, along with anyone who has transited those countries over the past 14 days.

International visitors, including Americans, must present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 96 hours of their departure and complete a Traveler Health Declaration within 24 hours prior to travel. A free 30-day tourist visa will be issued upon arrival and travelers may be subject to random testing. Further details can be found here.

Related: Maldives reopening

Tourists also need proof of a reservation with an approved hotel or resort. And tourists are now allowed to transfer from one resort to another, but only if their is no community transmission happening on either island. The latest update on resort openings can be found here.

The U.S. Mission reports that islands with cases are placed under travel lockdown and that travelers who test positive are routinely separated from their travel companions and forced to isolate at their expense. Anyone who is exposed to someone with a positive test for COVID-19 is required to quarantine for 14 days at their expense.

There had been a 4 p.m. to 4 a.m. curfew and other restrictions through June 9, 2021 on residents of the capital, Male, where the case surge has been the greatest, but that has been lifted.

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

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from the Maldives must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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.

Nepal

Nepal, which had remained mostly closed to tourism, has reopened to travelers arriving via air. Americans are allowed to visit. However, cases of COVD-19 surged throughout April and May 2021, topping 9,000 a day, and since April 29, 2021 Kathmandu and Kathmandu Valley have been under a lockdown that was extended through June 21, 2021, closing all but essential services and banning public and private transportation. Both international and domestic fights were also suspended through May 31, 2021, before a very limited number of flights were allowed to resume; this restricted flight schedule will remain in place through at least June 30, 2021.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Nepal, the government of Nepal has resumed issuing tourist visas. The embassy reports that all travelers should obtain a tourist entry visa from a Nepali diplomatic mission abroad or obtain a pre-approval/recommendation from the concerned ministry for ensuring their on-arrival visa. For more information, contact the Embassy of Nepal in Washington, D.C. Further information on obtaining a tourist visa is also available from Nepal’s Department of Immigration.

The U.S. Embassy website notes that U.S. travelers to Nepal need the following:

  • Results of a negative COVID-19 PCR negative taken within 72 hours of boarding or a document showing complete vaccination against COVID-19 (children five and under age five are exempt from testing)
  • A visa to Nepal or recommendation letter from the Department of Tourism or Nepal Tourism Board to participate in tourism activities within Nepal
  • A hotel booking confirmation or guarantee of accommodation
  • Proof of travel insurance that covers emergency search, rescue and treatment, among others, for the duration of their travel
  • The barcode generated from the online application of the Online International Travel Arrival Form

The U.S. Embassy also reports that all international travelers are required to quarantine for 10 days, no matter their vaccination status, and all travelers arriving into the Kathmandu Valley from other areas of Nepal must also quarantine for 10 days. Failure to wear a mask when outdoors may result in arrest and a fine.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Nepal must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Pakistan

Pakistan has reopened for Americans, however, the U.S. State Department’s Level 4 advisory says, “Do not travel to Pakistan due to COVID-19. Reconsider travel to Pakistan due to terrorism and sectarian violence.” The CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19.

According to the U.S. Embassy website, Americans wishing to travel to Pakistan will need a visa, and as visitors from a Category B country, upon arrival, they will need to show a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of departure from the U.S. They will also need to download and install a Pass Track app and face health screenings and testing on arrival. Guidelines can be found here.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Pakistan must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

The Philippines

Cebu, Philippines. (Photo by KrisCav/Getty Images)

According to the U.S. Embassy in Manila, the Philippine government suspended the entry of all foreign nationals from March 22, 2021 through April 30, 2021. Americans who meet certain criteria have been allowed to enter since May 1, 2021—see the U.S. Embassy website for details. The Philippines also banned travelers from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Oman and the United Arab Emirates or anyone who has visited those countries within the previous 14 days through May 31, 2021. The government also extended a lockdown in Manila through at least May 31, 2021.

Americans are only allowed into the Philippines if they meet certain requirements, such as being foreign spouses or children of Philippine citizens who are traveling with the Philippine citizen, and already have a Philippine visa. All travelers must undergo a mandatory COVID-19 PCR test upon arrival at the airport in Manila and are required to have pre-booked a stay of at least 10 nights in an accredited quarantine hotel or facility, where they will undergo a 14-day quarantine.

COVID-19 cases have been declining since late April 2021, but within certain regions of the country, there are currently regional curfews and/or quarantines as well as restrictions on intercity and interstate travel in effect throughout the Philippines.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from the Philippines must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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 3: High Level of COVID-19.

Singapore

Sinapore September 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Point Guy)
Sinapore, September 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Point Guy)

Singapore remains mostly closed for short-term visitors (including tourism). Americans are not allowed except for those who are dual citizens, residents of Singapore or are long-term pass holders who have received government permission. Singapore has developed reciprocal “Safe Travel Lanes” with several countries for official/business travel, but it tightened restrictions on May 14, 2021, which banned indoor dining and required working from home, for one month to get ahead of a small surge in local cases.

As of Jan. 24, 2021, all travelers must take a test upon arrival and all non-citizens or permanent residents arriving from most countries (including the U.S.) must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure. Travelers are also required to quarantine for two weeks in what Singapore terms a Stay-Home Notice (SHN) and have a minimum of $30,000 in travel insurance (as of Jan. 31, 2021). Full requirements can be found here and here.

The country has relaxed transit restrictions at Changi Airport. Unfortunately, transit restrictions vary by country of departure; check the Singapore Airlines website to see who can transit beautiful Singapore airport.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Singapore must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

South Korea

Americans can go to South Korea, but a mandatory two-week quarantine will make it undesirable for most travelers.

While the country is technically open to foreigners on short-term visits, most (with limited exceptions) are subject to a mandatory quarantine at a government-designated facility at their own expense for 14 days. According to the U.S. Embassy in South Korea, beginning July 1, 2021, limited categories of vaccinated travelers may apply for a quarantine exemption certificate at an overseas Korean Embassy or Consulate prior to travel.

The U.S. Embassy notes that until then and for those who are not granted exemption, quarantine will cost approximately $100-$150 USD per night, and passengers will be required to sign a release form agreeing to these conditions before departing. As of Jan. 8, 2021, all travelers (even those who are fully vaccinated) are also required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from South Korea must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

RELATED: I quarantined and tested abroad in South Korea — here’s what it was like

South Korea has agreed with China and Singapore to allow some business travel between the countries. The U.S. State Department’s advisory for South Korea is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions and the CDC’s advisory is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka announced it would reopen to limited inernational 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 had begun to allow tourism to resume.

The reopening began in December 2020 with a pilot program with Ukraine, in which tourists are allowed to visit in a “travel bubble.” After a review, the country extended the reopening to other countries, beginning Jan. 21, 2021. However, flights to Sri Lanka remain extremely limited and a record rise in cases in late April and May 2021 has resulted in preventative measures, including curfews and some travel restrictions, to be enacted. Case numbers remain quite high.

Travelers who can visit—which, according to the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka, currently does not include Americans for tourism purposes, must be tested (COVID-19 PCR test) in their own country within 72 hours of their flight and then undergo a 14-day quarantine. The Embassy notes that those who are allowed in require a valid visa (visa upon arrival remains suspended).

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Sri Lanka must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Taiwan

The overlook in Jiufen, Taiwan. (Phoot by Munzir Rosdi/EyeEm/Getty Images)

Taiwan banned international tourism as of March 19, 2020. That ban remains in place. And as of May 19, 2021, the country has banned the entry of all foreign nationals without a valid Alien Resident Certificate through June 18, 2021 after reporting its highest daily number of COVID-19 cases (335) since the start of the pandemic.

Before the ban, and presumably again when it is lifted, Americans had been allowed to go to Taiwan under certain very strict circumstances. They must have permission from the Taiwan government beforehand. Currently only those with a valid Alien Resident Certificate are allowed entry. All arrivals must show a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival and are subject to a 14-day home quarantine (with proof of a place of quarantine).

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Taiwan must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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 and must show results of a negative COVID-19 PCR test issued within 72 hours of arrival when boarding flights to Dushanbe; they are also 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.” A non-expired visa is also required to leave Tajikistan.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Tajikistan must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Thailand

Bangkok December 2018.
Bangkok, December 2018. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

As of April 1, 2021, U.S. passport holders are no longer required to obtain a visa for a tourist visit of up to 45 days (valid through September 30, 2021) in Thailand. They still need to obtain a Certificate of Entry (COE) and quarantine. Details are here. Thailand will begin a phased reopening for vaccinated tourists without the need to quarantine, beginning with Phuket on July 1, 2021.

Travelers to most regions still need to quarantine by booking a reservation at one of Thailand’s Alternative State Quarantine hotels. As of May 1, 2021, U.S. passport holders (and all international arrivals and regardless of vaccination status) must once again quarantine for 14 days. The most recent updates on travel to Thailand by Americans can be found here.

To enter Thailand, U.S. travelers need a Certificate of Entry (COE) issued by the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate; a COVID-19 health insurance policy with a minimum coverage of US$100,000; confirmation of Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) hotel booking, and a medical certificate with a negative COVID-19 PCR laboratory result issued no more than 72 hours before departure.

During quarantine in Thailand, travelers must undergo a PCR tests. For a 14-day quarantine, three tests are required: on the day of arrival and on days 6-7 and days 12-13.

Related: Thailand will fully reopen to vaccinated travelers in a phased approach

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

Thailand has announced that it plans to waive quarantine requirements for travelers who are fully vaccinated in phases, beginning with travel to Phuket as of July 1, 2021, where the tourism industry is looking to lure travelers with $1 per night hotel rates. Thailand has also promoted six resorts offering a “golf quarantine.” Details and updates can be found here.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Thailand must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

The U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for Thailand is Level 3: Reconsider Travel and  the CDC’s advisory is Level 3: 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 id 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 both a negative COVID-19 PCR test and a serology certificate confirming the presence of antibodies taken within 24 hours of departure from the U.S. or other point of origin. All travelers will also undergo a PCR test upon arrival ($43), followed by  21-day quarantine in a government facility for unvaccinated travelers and a 7-day self-isolation Under medical supervision for those who present a certificate of vaccination. Another PCR test ($43) is required to exit quarantine or self-isolation.

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.”

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Turkmenistan must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is open to Americans. In fact, it promises to compensate tourists up to $3,000 if they catch COVID-19.

U.S. citizens need a visa for entry, and a negative COVID-19 PCR test is required within 72 hours of departure to Uzbekistan. Tourists face health screenings as well as a rapid Antigen test (cost: $9) upon arrival if they did not 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. After two weeks and a negative test, they will be released from quarantine.

Radio Free Europe reports Uzbekistan lifted its ban on international flights from Oct. 1, 2020.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Uzbekistan must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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 4: Very High Level of COVID-19 (with advice not to travel there).

Vietnam

Vietnam resumed international flights in September 2020 from Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Cambodia and Laos for Vietnamese nationals, diplomats, experts, managers and skilled workers.

Foreign tourists were originally banned as of March 22, 2020, and it is uncertain when the Vietnamese government will lift this restriction. According to the U.S. Embassy in Vietnam, U.S. citizens are not permitted into Vietnam, with “limited exemptions for diplomatic, official duty, and special cases, including experts, business managers, foreign investors, and high-tech workers and other  businesses travelers.” Those who are allowed to enter are required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within three to seven days of arrival, undergo health screenings upon arrival and follow the country’s strict quarantine protocols, including quarantine for 21 days and medical surveillance for at least 28 days. The country did announce that it was considering lowering the quarantine for fully vaccinated arrivals to seven days, but not date has been set.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Vietnam must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

As cases continue to rise—Vietnam has over 6,000 active cases in isolation as of June 17, 2021—several regions of the country are currently subject to curfews, capacity restriction and business closures. The government has also said that individuals who refuse to wear face masks will be subject to severe penalties.

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

Oceania

Australia

Sydney March 2018. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Sydney, March 2018. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Australia remains closed to most foreign visitors. Additionally, since Jan. 8, 2021, the government has required all returning citizens, legal residents and permitted essential workers to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of boarding any international flight to the country.

Americans are banned except for a few emergency exemptions that must be cleared in advance, and all arriving citizens, permanent residents and non-citizens are subject to a 14-day stay in quarantine hotels. Check the U.S. Embassy in Australia website for details on restrictions and exemptions for entry. The site also has details on travel restrictions between Australia’s states, which have varying bans and requirements and a subject to last-minute lockdowns.

In October 2020, Australia and New Zealand created a “travel bubble” allowing anyone who has been in New Zealand for the past 14 days and is traveling on a quarantine-free flight to travel to Australia quarantine-free. The bubble was suspended on Feb. 14, 2021, for one week after New Zealand went into a lockdown after discovering cases of the U.K. variant in Auckland.

A reciprocal plan for travelers from Australia to New Zealand began on April 19, 2021.

Australians are currently banned from all other international travel, with limited exceptions. In January 2021, Qantas announced it was accepting international flight bookings for travel beginning July 1, 2021, but on Feb. 24, 2021 pushed the start date to late October 2021. In mid-January 2021, Australian government officials had suggested that international travel for Australians might not be possible until 2022. On May 6, 2021, officials also indicated the country’s borders wouldn’t open until mid-to-late-2022.

Related: Australia won’t reopen to international travel until 2022

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Australia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

French Polynesia

The South Pacific island nation had originally officially reopened on July 15, 2020. On Feb. 3, 2021, however, French Polynesia banned entry by international tourists — but on April 15, 2021 announced a gradual return to tourism as of May 1, 2021, with an initial opening to countries with “limited epidemic risk.”  Americans are among the travelers who can once again visit for tourism. Updates can be found here.

Related coverage: French Polynesia will reopen

Enhanced protocols are based on whether the traveler has completed vaccination, has antibodies from a prior infection or remains unvaccinated. Everyone six years of age and older is required to present a negative COVID-19 (RT-PCR) test taken 72 hours before departure. Travelers also must present the receipt of an online health registration from the Electronic Travel Information System (ETIS) platform, which must be filled out with their itinerary between 30 and 6 days prior to travel and also uploaded with vaccination certificates or positive serology (antibody tests) before travel commences. Unvaccinated travelers who have not recovered from COVID-19 must also register on ETIS since ETIS receipts, negative PCR test results and boarding authorization must be presented at boarding.

Upon arrival, all passengers must take an Antigen test. Fully vaccinated (in this case at least 14 days past the final dose) and antibody-positive travelers do not have to quarantine, but do have to take another test on day 4. Non-vaccinated travelers must quarantine for 10 days at their chosen accommodation with PCR tests taken on day 4 and day 8. Children under 18 who are not vaccinated can travel freely with their vaccinated parents, but must take two self-tests, on days 4 and 8. Details can be found here.

Additionally, all incoming travelers (residents excluded) must provide proof of international travel insurance. Luckily, credit card travel insurance satisfy 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.

All travelers are also advised to wear a mask throughout their stay and abide by specific sanitary measures. Travelers exhibiting symptoms during their stay were told to self-report and self-isolate in their room until further instruction from local emergency operators.

Related: An ill-fated trip to Tahiti

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 way 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.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from French Polynesia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Fiji

Fiji has had a strict lockdown in place since March 2020—but has seen cases rise in the past two months, reporting 1,206 COVID-19 cases as of June 16, 2021, 860 of them active—but  the U.S. Embassy in Fiji reports that some people can enter the country from the U.S. by seeking advance permission from the government for repatriation purposes.

The country has been closed to tourism and reopening plans have yet to be announced. Fiji Airways grounded 95% of its flights; the only flights had been repatriation flights for Australian and New Zealand citizens seeking to return home. The country also canceled all international and doestic flights between April 22 and at least May 6, 2021 to combat a recent rise in cases. Check for updates here.

The U.S. Embassy notes that Americans seeking entry to Fiji should contact Fiji Immigration with specific inquiries.

Any visitor to Fiji who is approved needs to provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test and then quarantine for 14 days in a Nadi-area hotel and pay the full cost of quarantine and testing.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Fiji must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Interestingly, Fiji does allow visitors by private yacht. Arriving tourists must quarantine for two weeks at sea before being allowed ashore.

Related: Fiji reopening; Billionaires preferred

Fiji had been in talks with Australia and New Zealand about entering into a so-called “travel bubble” that would allow citizens of the three countries to travel freely, but nothing has been finalized. Obviously, Americans would not be included in that agreement.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Fiji is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

New Zealand

Auckland, New Zealand March 2018. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Auckland, New Zealand, March 2018. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

New Zealand has been praised for its early and tough restrictions that kept cases of coronavirus low in the country. It restricted travel from Wuhan, China, on February 3, 2020. In fact, New Zealand is being hailed as one of the shining stars of dealing with COVID-19. Americans are not allowed to travel there.

A complete ban on foreigners remains in effect and the border is effectively closed to foreign tourists. From the government website: “Entry to New Zealand from all countries remains strictly controlled to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.” And on Jan. 26, 2021, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the country’s borders “will be impacted for much of this year.”

New Zealand reacted quickly on Feb. 14, 2021, when it ordered a temporary lockdown in Auckland after three cases of the U.K. variant were detected. The lockdown was lifted on Feb. 17, 2021.

The government had previously announced that starting Jan. 15, 2021 anyone who is granted permission to travel to New Zealand and will be arriving in the country from the United States or United Kingdom must provide a negative COVID-19 test (PCR, LAMP or Antigen) taken 72 hours prior to departure. All travelers from any destination must also complete a 14-day stay in managed isolation or quarantine.

As of Jan. 26, 2021 everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from New Zealand must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern okayed a travel bubble with Australia, and the initial roll-out began in October 2020 with a one-way program to select Australian destinations with travelers able to forgo Australia’s 14-day quarantine. It was temporarily suspended by Australia for one week due to an Auckland lockdown in February 2021 but has since resumed. A reciprocal plan for travelers from Australia to New Zealand began on April 19, 2021.

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

Middle East

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. Fully vaccinated visitors (two weeks past their final dose) traveling from the United States, United Kingdom, European Union, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan or Singapore with approved vaccination certificates do not need to bring a negative COVID-19 PCR test when traveling to Bahrain as they will be tested at the airport and again on day 10 (both at their own expense). They are not required to quarantine. Vaccinated Bahrain citizens are no longer required to test.

Non-vaccinated travelers must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of their departure for Bahrain, along with a QR code generated by the BeAware Bahrain app, and are required to quarantine for 10 days. All travelers must download the BeAware Bahrain app in advance of travel and must submit to and pay for an arrival test and a second test on day 10 (with steep fines and possible jail time for non-compliance).  Any positive test results will result in quarantine at a government facility until a clean bill of health is received.

The U.S. Embassy in Bahrain reports that flight schedules are reduced and remain subject to cancellation and that visitors should be prepared for travel restrictions to be put into place with little or no advance notice. Face masks are mandatory in all public spaces with a 20 Bahraini dinar ($53) fine for non-compliance. People who break public health rules face either a minimum of three months in jail, a fine ranging from 1,000 Bahraini Dinars ($2,645) to 10,000 dinars ($26,500), or a combination of both. Indoor dining was temporarily suspended in Bahrain, but now has been allowed to resume for fully vaccinated people only; outdoor dining is open to those who are unvaccinated. Many other indoor recreation activities are also limited to the fully vaccinated.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Bahrain must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

In March 2020, the government of Israel announced that foreigners, including U.S. citizens, would not be allowed to enter the country. On April 6, 2021, Israel announced it would begin allowing non-citizens who are fully vaccinated into the country, however, those permitted in will be limited to those who can prove they have an Israeli family member or fall into very specific categories.

More recently, Israel is allowing certain foreign nationals into the country. According to the U.S. Embassy in Israel, foreign nationals who are not Israeli citizens/residents must apply in advance to the Israeli government for a permit to enter Israel. Details can be found here.

Israel hopes to begin allowing others to visit in the coming months as vaccinations continue to roll out. However, the Israeli-Palestine conflict, which has been tempered a bit by a temporary cease-fire, is complicating those plans in the near-term as airlines have been canceling flights to Tel Aviv’s Ben-Gurion International Airport.

Israel went into a third lockdown in early January 2021 as the country tried to control a COVID-19 surge while rolling out a massive vaccination program. The lockdown was lifted on Feb. 6,  2021. The Israeli government also halted all international travel and temporarily closed Tel Aviv Ben Gurion through  Feb. 7, 2021. Limited flights are now allowed.

All arriving passengers must fill out an inbound passenger statement,  present an entry clearance from the government and have medical insurance valid in Israel. As of Jan. 23, 2021, everyone over the age of two traveling to Israel must also present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of their flight’s departure or confirmation of a completed vaccination. 

Arriving travelers must also quarantine for 10 days (with two tests) or 14 days in a government quarantine center or approved hotel or private residence. Those who have valid proof of vaccination or recovery from COVID-19 can test out of quarantine with a positive antibody test. Details are available here.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Israel must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Israel’s Ministry of Health updated its COVID-19 restrictions, which include the requirement to wear a protective mask over the nose and mouth in public.

Luxury hotel company Dan hotels have reopened all of its hotels, including the King David Jerusalem.

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

Jordan

Jordan is open to Americans, according to the U.S. Embassy in Jordan. All arriving passengers must register online, fill out an arrivals form before the flight, provide results of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival in Jordan, have health insurance and take and pay for another coronavirus test on arrival ($39; children under age five are exempt). Vaccinated U.S. travelers who present a negative pre-travel test do not have to take and pay for a test upon arrival, provided they also present their vaccination certificate, have valid health insurance, complete their online Gateway2Jordan registration to receive a QR code (required of all visitors) and complete the required health form while checking in for their flight.

Once in Jordan, U.S. travelers who test negative upon arrival no longer need to undergo mandatory home quarantine; those who test positive upon arrival will be subject to at least 10 days of home isolation. Masks are mandatory in business establishments, public transportation and government facilities. There is an 11 p.m. curfew (10 p.m. for businesses) nationwide.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Jordan must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Kuwait

Kuwait is not welcoming foreign tourists, and since Feb. 7, 2021, has banned all non-Kuwaiti citizens (with very limited exceptions, namely first-degree relatives of Kuwaiti citizens and domestic employees traveling with them) from entering the country until further notice, according to the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait.

Travelers who are able to enter Kuwait will only be permitted in with either a valid visa or a residency permit. Visitor visas are not being issued upon arrival at the airport, nor are visas available electronically in advance; they can only be requested from a Kuwaiti embassy or consulate.

Arriving passengers over the age of six must produce a negative COVID-19 PCR test result administered by a health clinic within 72 hours of boarding their flight to Kuwait. Results must be in English and do not need to be translated. As of Jan. 3, 2021, all passengers will also be given another PCR test upon arrival in Kuwait.

Travelers arriving must register with the Kuwait Mosafer platform and the Shlonik app prior to boarding the aircraft, and as of Feb. 21, 2021, all arriving passengers who are unvaccinated must undergo seven days of institutional quarantine at a hotel in Kuwait at their own expense (booked via the Mosafer platform), with a negative test (on day six) allowing for seven additional days of home quarantine. Fully vaccinated travelers are no longer subject to a 7-day home quarantine.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Kuwait must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

The use of face masks is mandatory in all public areas, and the Ministry of Health is randomly testing residents and citizens daily. Capacity restrictions and early closures of business remain in effect. Restaurants are not allowed to offer dine-in service until further notice. Kuwait has reduced all flights to 30% of their normal capacity.

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

Lebanon

Lebanon imposed a 24-hour countrywide lockdown, which closed all but essential businesses, through Feb. 8, 2021, when some restrictions were eased—but the 24-hour curfew was extended through March 8, 2021 with allowances only for essential activities. Cases plateaued and then decreased following a month-long lockdown during Ramadan.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Lebanon, Americans can travel to the country. With exceptions for those who are 15 days past their completed COVID-19 vaccination or 15 days past recovery from infection, all travelers over the age of 12 must produce a negative PCR test taken within 96 hours of arrival in order to enter the country, take a second PCR test at their own expense (about $50), self-quarantine for three days at their hotel and take a third PCR test after that.

All travelers to Lebanon who do not meet any of the above exceptions must also complete a medical form issued by the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health before boarding their flight.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Lebanon must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Masks are required at all times outdoors and in public spaces, and all violators will be fined $33 per violation.

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

Oman

International flights to Oman have resumed and Americans can again visit, according to the U.S. Embassy in Oman. However, Oman has banned entry by travelers from 14 countries (Sudan, Lebanon, South Africa, Brazil, Nigeria, Guinea, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Ethiopia, the United Kingdom, India, Pakistan and Bangladesh), or anyone who has passed through them in the past 14 days, until further notice.

Proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of entering the Sultanate through Muscat International Airport (MCT), Salalah Airport (SLL), Sohar Airport (OHS), and Duqm Airport (DQM) is required. Travelers must also be tested upon arrival (cost: OMR25 or $65), quarantine in a pre-arranged hotel at their own expense for seven days and take another PCR test (cost: OMR25 or $65) on day 8 before quarantine can end.

PCR tests and hotel quarantine accommodations must be pre-booked separately. Mandatory PCR tests will have to be pre-booked on the Tarassud+ mobile app prior to arrival in Oman. The app serves to gather all relevant passenger details and gives the users secure and easy access to pay for their PCR tests online. Quarantine hotel accommodations must be booked on the Sahala platform before arrival in Oman; airlines are required to check that travelers hold a confirmed hotel booking. All travelers are also required to have travel health insurance that is valid in Oman.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone aged two and older traveling to the U.S. from Oman must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

From May 15, 2021, there is an 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. ban on most commercial activities.

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

Qatar

Qatar is not welcoming foreign tourists. According to the U.S. Embassy in Qatar, only limited non-Qatari citizens can enter Qatar.

U.S. travelers are allowed to enter Qatar under specific circumstances, but not for tourism. Entering travelers from high-risk countries (which includes the U.S.) must produce a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel, quarantine in a hotel booked via the Discover Qatar website for seven days upon arrival and take another test after that; if negative the remaining seven days of quarantine can be done at home. Details can be found here.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Qatar must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Saudi Arabia

On Feb. 3, 2021, Saudi Arabia suspended entry for all travelers from 20 counties—the United States, Argentina, the United Arab Emirates, Germany, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Pakistan, Brazil, Portugal, the United Kingdom, Turkey, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, France, Lebanon, Egypt, India and Japan—with the exception of Saudi citizens, diplomats and medical practitioners and their families.

The ban also applied to any traveler who has been in any of the 20 countries in the 14 days prior to travel to Saudi Arabia. But, according to the U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Ministry of Interior announced that travel directly from 11 previously restricted countries, including the United States, could resume as of May 30, 2021, but travelers must follow existing entry requirements. These countries are the United States, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom.

International flights have been allowed to return to normal operations as of May 17, 2021. All travelers must obtain a visa and have medical insurance that covers COVID-19 infection. Any traveler eight years of age and older who is permitted to enter must produce a negative COVID-19 test, with results obtained within 72 hours of arrival time. Travelers must download the Tawakkalna app and undergo institutional quarantine for at least seven days, depending on their country of origin. U.S travelers who are at least 14 days past completing their vaccination are exempt from quarantine with proof of their vaccination certificate. According to the U.S. Embassy, the Government of Saudi Arabia has created a web portal for travelers to the Kingdom to register their vaccination data to expedite entry procedures into the Kingdom.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Saudi Arabia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Face masks are mandatory in all public venues, and violations are subject to a fine of $2,666.

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

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

Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. May 2017. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. May 2017. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

The United Arab Emirates is open to tourism and Americans are welcome.

Dubai reopened to tourists on July 7, 2020, and tourist visas (required for U.S. travelers) are being issued in all emirates, including Abu Dhabi, which began welcoming back international travelers on Dec. 24, 2020, with testing and quarantine protocols in place.

To enter Abu Dhabi, tourists over the age of 12 will be required to present a COVID-19 PCR test negative certificate done within 96 hours of departure and undergo a second test upon arrival, with results delivered in 90 minutes. If the traveler is from from “green list” country (good news: the U.S. was recently added to the list) and receives two negative tests, they are not required to quarantine. All other travelers, even if they test negative, are required to self-isolate for 10 days. And all travelers will be required to take a third COVID-19 PCR test on day 6 if staying six days or more and day 12 if staying 12 days or more. Details are available here.

Tourists over the age of 12 traveling to Dubai are required to have a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure (changed from 96 hours) and some travelers, depending on their country of origin, will be tested again upon arrival. All travelers must also download the COVID-19 DXB app and register their details. However, unless they are traveling from or have transited through certain countries(currently India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka) in the past 14 days, visitors entering Dubai are not required to quarantine. For additional information on traveling to Dubai, check the Emirates airline website.

According to the U.S. Embassy, anyone traveling from Dubai (or any other emirate) to Abu Dhabi must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours. If staying for more than four consecutive days, individuals must take an additional PCR test on the fourth day. Those staying in Abu Dhabi for more than eight consecutive days must take an additional COVID-19 PCR test on the eighth day.

All test results for both emirates must be presented either in English or Arabic in original, physical form. Digital copies will not be accepted. Travelers with severe and moderate disabilities may be exempted from the test requirement.

Tourists must comply with preventive measures and safety procedures and must self-isolate for 14 days if they test positive. The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority of the UAE (NCEMA), as well as the official website of the UAE, has stated that anyone entering the UAE from another country who receives a positive test result upon arrival must undergo a self-quarantine of 14 days. Violating home quarantine is punishable with fines of AED 50,000 ($13,600).

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All arrivals will also be subject to thermal screenings. If a traveler is suspected to have COVID-19 symptoms, Dubai airports have the right to re-test to ensure the tourist is free of the virus.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from the United Arab Emirates must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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.

Related: Dubai and Abu Dhabi are open

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 Sana’a 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.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Yemen must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Africa

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, all arriving international travelers age 11 and older must arrive with proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within three days (72 hours) of their departure to DRC. Upon arrival, 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 US$45. After testing at the airport, arriving passengers must self-quarantine until they receive a negative test result, usually within 24 hours.

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

To exit the DRC, all travelers age 11 and older must pay for and present a negative COVID-19 test from an approved lab taken within 72 hours of travel. This parallels a Jan. 26, 2021 requirement by the U.S. government that everyone aged two and older traveling to the U.S. from the Democratic Republic of Congo must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights.

Masks are required in public spaces and the DRC has a number of regional curfews in place from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. Testing is also required for travel between some provinces.

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

Egypt

Luxor, Egypt. (Photo via Getty Images)
Luxor, Egypt. (Photo via Getty Images)

International tourism resumed in Egypt in July 2020, although tourism at sites such as Luxor has reportedly been quite slow. The Great Pyramids of Giza, for example, reopened on July 1, 2020, after being closed since March 2020 and undergoing a deep cleaning, reported Reuters.

Egypt is now open for Americans, but the U.S. State Department has issued a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 3: High Level of COVID-19. There are also some important things to know before you go.

Related: Egypt reopening

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. According to the U.S. Embassy in Egypt, while most travelers over the age of six, including Egyptians, will require results of tests taken within 72 hours prior to departure for Egypt, passengers traveling from Japan, China, Thailand, North America, South America, Canada, London Heathrow, Paris, and Frankfurt will be allowed to provide the test certificate performed at a maximum of 96 hours prior to flight departure, due to the long travel and transit period from these airports. You also have to have the physical (printed) test results. No digital documents are being accepted. Proof of health insurance valid in Egypt is also required.

As of Jan. 3, 2021, anyone not following mask requirements may be subject to fines or prosecution and restaurants have been ordered to operate at 50% capacity.

As of Jan. 26, everyone aged two and older traveling to the U.S. from Egypt must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Related: Dreaming of visiting Egypt

Ghana

Ghana’s Accra Kotoka International Airport 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 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 five 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 7-day quarantine at a government heath 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.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone aged two and older traveling to the U.S. from Ghana must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Kenya

Kenya reopened to tourism on August 1, 2020, and Americans are welcome to visit. The U.S. State Department recently changed its advisory to Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 2: Moderate Level of COVID-19.

President Uhuru Kenyatta said at the time of reopening that the country had reached enough preparedness to lessen restrictions but precautions should still be taken, reported Reuters. But cases surged in the country in March 2021 and  nightly curfew starting at 10 p.m. remains in effect.

Travel in and out of Nairobi is allowed and all visitors need to obtain an e-visa, fill out an online health form (to obtain a QR code for scanning upon arrival) and present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 96 hours of arrival, according to the U.S. Embassy in Kenya. They’ll also face a health screening on arrival. Americans are currently exempt from quarantine requirements. Entry requirements can be found here.

The Embassy also reports that incoming Travelers are required to have a QR code for a completed Travelers Health Surveillance Form. The Kenya Ministry of Health launched the Trusted Travel (TT) 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.

The departure test requirement parallels a new U.S. government requirement that as of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Kenya must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

A mandatory face mask requirement while in public remains in effect.

Related: Country-by-country guide to Africa reopening

Mauritius

The Indian Ocean island of Mauritius has suspended all incoming flights to the country through at least July 15, 2021. On March 10, 2021, Mauritius also went into an island-wide lockdown that closed beaches, shops and restaurants through April 30, 2021. Some restrictions have been eased, but restaurants are now open for delivery and takeout only.

Mauritius originally began lifting restrictions on June 15, 2020, and according to the U.S. Embassy in Mauritius, as of Oct. 1, 2020 Americans had been allowed to visit—but only long-stay arrivals who purchased a travel package had been approved.

Beginning July 15, 2021, all non-Mauritian national travelers to the island, including Americans, must be fully vaccinated are required to present a negative result of COVID-19 PCR test taken between 5 and 7 days of boarding their final flight to Mauritius.

Vaccinated guests will:

  • Enjoy a holiday at one of our certified COVID-19 safe resorts
  • Relax on the beach and enjoy access to all hotel facilities, excluding the spa
  • Undergo a PCR test on arrival day and on days 7 and 14 of your stay
  • After a negative PCR test on day 14,  be free to go and explore the island.

Beginning Oct. 1, 2021, fully vaccinated U.S. travelers will need to provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to their departure to Mauritius, but then will be free to explore the fully opened island.

Unvaccinated travelers, as of Oct. 1, 2021, must:

  • Book a 14-day quarantine including meals and transfers in an officially designated hotel.
  • Be required to stay in their hotel room for 14 days and meals will be delivered to their room
  • Undergo a PCR test on arrival day and on days 7 and 14
  • After a negative PCR test on day 14, they can freely explore the island and move to a different accommodation or go home

All travel alerts for Mauritius can be found here.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Mauritius must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Related: Planning a dream trip to Mauritius

Morocco

Morocco recently extended its strict state of emergency until July 10, 2021, and early this year suspended flights from several dozen countries, making tourism here challenging until just recently. However, many international flights were allowed to resume as of June 15, 2021.

The the U.S. Embassy in Morocco reports that the Moroccan government is now classifying countries into “List A” (which includes the United States, most European countries, and all countries not on List B) and “List B.” Passengers arriving from List A countries will be permitted to enter Morocco with a negative result of a PCR test administered within 48 hours of the date of entry or proof of COVID-19 vaccination. However, at this time it is unclear what will be considered as acceptable proof of having been vaccinated against COVID-19. The Embassy says it is encouraging all travelers to continue to get a PCR test that is no more than 48 hours old before arrival in Morocco.

Travelers from List B countries must undergo a 10-day hotel quarantine in addition to the COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of the date of entry, as required of all passengers.

The Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs will update the countries on List A and List B regularly and at least twice a month.

Royal Air Maroc flights between New York’s JFK Airport and Washington, DC’s Dulles International and Casablanca are operating. Masks are mandatory in flight and in all public spaces.

The U.S. Embassy also reports that there is a nationwide curfew between 11 p.m. and 4:30 a.m. and there are some restriction on travel between cities and regions.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Morocco must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Related: Guide to Morocco reopening

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 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

Namibia

Namibia has been open for tourism since Sept. 1, 2020, although most of its land borders are currently closed for tourism purposes. Most businesses (hotels, safari lodges and camps, restaurants, shops) are open and public transportation is running. However, the country is in the middle of a third wave of COVID-19 infections with cases rising all around the country.

Tourists, including Americans, are allowed to fly to Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH), but according to the U.S. Embassy in Namibia, they must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 7 days of arrival and fill out a health questionnaire. Even travelers who have proof of vaccination must provide a negative test result. Those whose test result is more than 7 days old will need to undergo a day-of-arrival quarantine until getting a negative result on an arrival test before being allowed to move freely in the country.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Namibia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights;

There is a nationwide curfew in Namibia from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.

Related: Country-by-country guide to Africa reopening

When the country re-opened in late August 2020, President Hage Geingob said in a televised address, “The virus is likely to remain in our midst for a prolonged time and we must learn to live with it … learning to live with the virus means adapting our attitudes and behaviors so that we can reduce the damage it can do to our country.”

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Namibia is Level 4: Do Not Travel and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 4: Very High 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, however, the U.S. State Department has issued a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory even though 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 over the age of 10 must have proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours (three days) of departure.  A Quarantine Protocol issued in September requires all international visitors to register via the Nigeria International Travel Portal, upload test results prior to travel, self-isolate and pay for another test seven days after arrival in Nigeria, and continue self-isolating until receiving a negative result (typically in 24-48 hours).

Nigeria saw a surge in COVID-19 cases in December 2020 and January 2021, when restrictions were increased. There is currently a curfew in place from 12 a.m. to 4 a.m. Mask wearing is inconsistent and the government’s national identification registration policy created crowds and chaos earlier this year, according to reporting by CNN. And in early March 2021, a new COVID-19 variant was detected in the country.

According to the U.S. Embassy, all passengers departing Abuja International airport are currently being asked to provide negative COVID tests taken within 3 days (72 hours) prior to boarding. This aligns with the CDC’s rule that as of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Nigeria must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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, (see details on the Johns Hopkins University website), although cases did spike in early 2021. The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Rwanda is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution and the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 1: Low Level of COVID-19.

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Related: Visiting Rwanda during 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. All travelers are also subject to testing upon arrival (at a cost of $60) and must spend 24 hours in a designated transit hotel; some travelers (but not business travelers or tourists headed to national parks) may need to undergo a seven-night quarantine.

VisitRwanda’s reopening guidance says, “For passengers entering Rwanda, a second PCR test will be conducted upon arrival, with results delivered within 24 hours, during which time they will remain in designated hotels at their own cost.” Some travelers then need to continue quarantining at the designated hotel or at home for seven days until receiving a text message to appear for a final test. But business travelers who plan to be in Rwanda for a short stay (less than seven days) and international tourists scheduled to visit national parks will not be required to undergo the seven-day quarantine.

For information on testing in Rwanda, check this FAQ section on VisitRwanda.com.

Travelers departing Rwanda must also test negative within 72 hours (three days) of departure for home. They are encouraged to book and pay for their tests at least two days prior to their return flight. As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Rwanda must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Rwanda is offering visas on arrival as well for all nationalities. There are a number of additional planning resources available at VisitRwanda.com. All three major national parks in the country are open but visitors will have to test negative for COVID-19 within 48 hours of visiting. You can even book a trip to see the endangered mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park.

Face masks are required nationwide in public spaces and there is a curfew from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m.

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. The Embassy notes, however, that it has received reports from some Americans who report difficulty booking travel to Senegal because of current restrictions.

Senegal requires the original certificate of a negative COVID-19 test taken with five days (120 hours) of arrival and only from the country where you started your trip. The West African country also requires all arrivals to submit a ‘Public Health Passenger Locator’ form. Arriving passengers face health screenings.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Senegal must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Hotels are open, as are restaurants and casinos, with social distancing in place. A mandatory mask order remains in effect countrywide.

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 has 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, and as of March 25, 2021, even non-vaccinated U.S. travelers can visit. Details can be found here.

However, even though the Seychelles has vaccinated more than 60% of its population, cases rose in recent months and new restrictions have been imposed. Visitors who have been in South Africa, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Brazil within the past 14 days will be denied entry. There is also now a curfew from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. until further notice and retail shops, bars, casinos and other businesses have limited hours of operation.

In February 2021, the country announced that fully vaccinated U.S. travelers can visit and enjoy free movement throughout the island nation but must have a negative result of a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of their flight and show a valid certificate of vaccination, with the vaccination completed at least two weeks prior to travel, and upload the test results to obtain a Travel Health Authorization. The latest requirements can be found here.

Travel opened to all U.S. travelers on March 25, 2021, and both vaccinated and unvaccinated visitors must obtain a Travel Health Authorization via the online portal. All travelers must also present a negative result of a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of their flight and have valid travel 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.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Seychelles must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Related: Seychelles reopening: Fire up the private jet

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 High Level of COVID-19. Check the the U.S. Embassy website for updates.

South Africa

South Africa reopened to tourism on Oct. 1, 2020, and, according to the U.S. Embassy in South Africa, as of Nov. 11, 2020, U.S. citizens can enter the country for tourism purposes, but they need to present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours from the time of departure, or they must test upon arrival and remain in mandatory quarantine for 10 days at their own cost. Details can be found here.

In December 2020, both South Africa and the United Kingdom began reporting troubling new COVID-19 variants, which resulted in the widespread suspension of flights and travel to and from both the U.K. and South Africa. The U.S. government on Jan. 26, 2021 then banned travel from South Africa, with the exceptions of U.S. citizens and legal U.S. residents.

South Africa suffered a dangerous second wave in December 2020 and January 2021, surpassing 1.5 million total cases and forcing a return to a Level 3 lockdown alert with restrictions that were eased to an adjusted Level 2 as of May 31, 2021. Still, many questions remain about the COVID-19 variant first detected in South Africa, including its potential resistance to current vaccines.

Related: South Africa reopening, but not to Americans so far

All arriving travelers will face a health screening. If a passenger has a negative test result, they will not have to quarantine. Those who don’t bring tests will need to quarantine for two weeks at their own expense. Travelers must also download the South Africa coronavirus mobile tracing app, and fill in all the information on that app.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, any U.S. citizen or permanent U.S. resident age two and older traveling to the U.S. from South Africa must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

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

Tanzania

Tanzania, which had been accepting tourists with no testing or quarantine conditions attached, as of May 3, 2021 requires all travelers to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of arrival and to complete an online Health Surveillance Form within 24 hours prior to arrival to receive a unique health code (UHC). Travelers will undergo screening upon arrival and arriving passengers will also be required to take a rapid test ($25) upon arrival in Tanzania. Travelers arriving from certain high-risk countries (not the U.S.) are also required to undergo a 14-day quarantine at their own cost.

The new requirements were put into effect by the country’s new president Samia Saluhu Hassan to try to curb the spread of new variants.

Tanzania’s late president John Magufuli had until shortly before his death denied widespread COVID-19 transmission (the government had not been reporting cases). Magufuli, 61, died on March 18, 2021, after not being seen in public for more than two weeks.

The U.S. Embassy in Tanzania is reporting that it has seen an increase in the number of cases reported to it since January 2021 and that the use of masks, social distancing and other prevention strategies are largely absent throughout the country. The chance of contracting COVID-19 through community spread remains elevated 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.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Tanzania must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Tanzania has received a lot of criticism on how it has handled the coronavirus pandemic. The government hasn’t actively revealed data about infection rates or death. President Magufuli had said that releasing the data was “causing panic” and at the start of the pandemic declined to close churches, saying that the virus “cannot survive in the body of Christ — it will burn.” He also claimed Tanzania was free of coronavirus as of June 2020 due to prayer and the work of front-line workers. He even celebrated citizens who weren’t wearing masks as a sign that people were no longer afraid and the virus was gone.

Related: Country-by-country guide to Africa reopening

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 reports that as of May 1, 2021 the government of Uganda recommends that all travelers from the United States (and all Category 2 countries, which also includes the United Kingdom, UAE, Turkey, South Africa, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Kenya and Tanzania) who are not vaccinated postpone any non-essential travel to Uganda, where cases have been surging in Kampala.

According to the U.S. Embassy, arriving passengers must have a negative PCR COVID-19 test from an accredited laboratory in the country of origin taken not more than 120 hours before departure for Uganda. As of June 11, 2021, any traveler from the Category 2 countries, including the United States, and regardless of their vaccination status, will be subjected to a PCR COVID-19 test, at the traveler’s expense, at all points of entry into Uganda, including Entebbe International Airport. The Ministry of Health has stated that these tests should not cost more than $65. These travelers will be transported to a holding area 5-10 km from the airport to be tested and wait there for their test results. Travelers have an option to wait at that location or to check into a designated hotel at their own cost until they receive their test results. Any traveler who tests positive for COVID-19 will be evacuated by the Ministry of Health to a designated COVID-19 isolation facility, at the traveler’s expense.

The U.S. Embassy also notes that the Government of Uganda also requires that all departing passengers present a negative PCR COVID-19 test taken not more than 120 hours before 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. now does, just with a tighter time frame: As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone aged two and older traveling to the U.S. from Uganda must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights.

Uganda remains under some lockdown restrictions, with businesses under restricted hours and with capacity limits. There is a nightly 9 p.m. curfew and masks are required in public.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Uganda is Level 3: Reconsider Travel due to COVID-19 and the risk of kidnapping but the CDC’s advisory for the country is Level 2: Moderate Level of COVID-19.

Zambia

Zambia, home to Victoria Falls and known as a top safari destination, is open to international travelers, including Americans. However, according to the U.S. Embassy in Zambia, non-essential travel to Zambia is still not reccommended at the moment as the country’s second wave of cases winds down.

Zambia now 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 right now, but there are reports of some health screenings and symptomatic individuals may be required to submit to testing and/or quarantine.

As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Zambia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Zambia is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions 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. In a statement, the government said, “All travelers will be required to have a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) COVID-19 clearance certificate issued by a recognized facility within 48 hours from the date of departure.”

U.S. citizens can travel to Zimbabwe, according to the U.S. Embassy, but as of May 7, 2021, all travelers arriving to Zimbabwe from abroad, regardless of citizenship or vaccination status, are also required to quarantine for 10 days. Travelers may quarantine at a hotel or other private residence. During the 10-day quarantine period, travelers must self-isolate. Travelers visiting from or who have transited through COVID-19 “hot spots” will also undergo a test upon arrival at their own expense.

Cases surged in January 2021 and a nationwide lockdown with a curfew (now 10:30 p.m. to 5 a.m.) was put into place and extended with slightly relaxed restrictions on March 1, 2021. Cases declined but on June 14, 2021 stricter measures were put into place that limit business opening times to 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and restaurants are open for take-out or delivery only.

Amid the January surge four officials in the Zimbabwe government died of COVID-19.

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

Travelers departing Zimbabwe must present a negative COVID-19 test obtained within 48 hours of departure. As of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Zimbabwe must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights, so having the 48-hour result required by Tanzania will also meet U.S. requirements.