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International Air Travel: COVID-19 Testing Requirements
International Air Travel: Updated Rules
COVID-19 Testing Requirements
As part of a new CDC order that goes into effect Jan. 26, 2021, proof of a negative COVID-19 test or recovery from COVID-19 is required for all air passengers arriving to the United States. For international air travel, passengers must get tested no more than 3 days before they plan to travel to the United States, as well as show a negative test result or documentation of recovery to their travel provider before boarding a flight.
International Travel Requirements FAQs
When does the order go into effect?
The new CDC order takes effect Jan. 26, 2021, at 12:01 a.m. EST.
What kind of tests are accepted?
Passengers must receive a viral test (NAAT or antigen test) to determine whether or not they are infected with COVID-19. A verifiable lab test result must be presented in the form of written documentation (paper or electronic copy) and negative results must be presented prior to boarding. Documentation must include identifiable passenger information, specimen collection date and the type of test conducted. Negative results must show that tests were performed within 3 days of the flight.
When should I get tested before traveling to the U.S.?
Passengers should get tested no more than 3 days before their flight to the U.S. However, make sure you’ve received the results before the flight departs and have documentation ready to show your travel provider.
Do I still need a negative test result if I've been vaccinated?
Yes all air passengers visiting the U.S. must provide a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery, regardless of their antibody status or whether they’ve received a vaccination.
Does the testing requirement apply to passengers leaving the U.S.?
No, the CDC does not currently require testing for travelers leaving the U.S. However, they recommend guests get tested with a viral test (NAAT or antigen) 1-3 days before traveling internationally. Additionally, international destinations may have their own requirements for visitors, so make sure to check beforehand.
Are the testing requirements applicable to U.S. citizens?
Yes. According to the CDC website, the order “applies to all air passengers, 2 years of age or older, traveling into the U.S., including U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents.”
Does the order apply to travel to U.S. territories?
No, the order does not apply to air travel from a U.S. territory or possession to a U.S. state, including American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Do I need to wear a mask onboard international or domestic private flights?
As part of additional new executive orders, masks are required to be worn at all airports, as well as onboard commercial and private flights, both international and domestic.
Where can I find more information on the new requirements?
For the latest information on the order, check out the CDC’s website for additional details and FAQs.
Our industry-leading protocols safeguard the health and well-being of guests and crew thanks to a multilayered approach embedded into every aspect of your experience.
Magellan Jets offers access to a network of elite partnerships and collaborations, providing destinations and experiences that utilize only the highest of standards for guest safety.
Leave the worrying to our Guest Experience experts, who can help coordinate any testing requirements and other travel needs. Magellan Jets guests can also seamlessly submit health affidavit forms and more via our web portal and mobile app.
Planning a trip abroad?
Considering a trip to an international getaway? Call Magellan Jets today at 877-550-5387 to connect and schedule a consultation with our travel experts, who can walk you through the new protocols as well as any other requirements that destinations may have in place for visitors.