COVID-19 Travel Restrictions
Page last updated: July 1, 2023.
Preamble: The following page details the conditions for travel to the United States during the COVID-19 health crisis. We regularly update the information presented, taking into account the latest measures related to the health crisis that started in 2020.
For a stay of less than 90 days in the United States: It is not necessary to apply for a visa. All you need to do is apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ESTA) issued by the United States. To obtain your certificate in a few minutes click on the online form.
End of the ban on entry into the United States for nationals of a European country
The United States reopened its borders on November 8, 2021, after 20 months of closure to foreign travelers. The U.S. administration has decided to reopen the borders but with certain conditions for travelers. Common rules are imposed on travelers who are nationals of European Union countries.
End of US entry ban for unvaccinated foreign nationals
The US has ended COVID-19 vaccine requirements for international air travelers as of May 12, 2023. As a result, non-citizen, non-immigrant air passengers no longer need to prove that they are fully vaccinated with an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to board a flight to the United States.
What documents are required to travel to the United States
European nationals are again allowed to enter the United States if they are able to present before boarding:
- A valid ESTA ;
- A valid electronic or biometric passport.
These conditions apply to international air travel. The same rules apply to land travel when crossing borders.
Do I need a recent COVID test to board a flight to the USA?
As of July 2022, it is no longer necessary to present a negative COVID test when boarding a plane to the USA.
Until June 2022 you had to have a negative COVID-19 test within the last 72 hours before takeoff to board a plane to the United States. This rule was imposed by all airlines operating flights to the United States.
Can an adult travel to the US without being vaccinated?
As of May 12, 2023, it is no longer necessary to be vaccinated against COVID in order to embark for the USA. Foreign adults not vaccinated against COVID 19 have been authorized to travel to the United States since May 12, 2023.
Which vaccine is valid for entering the United States?
To be considered “vaccinated” by the U.S. government, you must have received your last dose of vaccine more than 15 days before your departure. Only the following COVID-19 vaccines are recognized by the United States:
- 2 doses of Moderna, Pfizer/BioNTech, AstraZeneca, Sinopharm;
- 1 dose of Johnson & Johnson.
Do children need to be vaccinated?
Vaccination of young adolescents started in the fourth quarter of 2021 in the United States. However, the decree reopening borders from November 8, 2021 required the vaccine only for foreign travelers over 18. As of May 12, 2023, it is no longer necessary to be vaccinated to enter the USA.
What traveler information is included in the vaccination certificate?
The vaccination certificate, whether digital or printed on a paper document, indicates:
- Your identity
- The country that issued your certificate of vaccination
- The type of COVID-19 vaccine
- Vaccination dates
What does the European digital vaccine passport look like?
Below are three screenshots of the CovidSafeBe application (Belgium) which in this example contains :
- Two doses of Pfizer vaccines;
- The QR Code that validates the last injection;
- The result of a test carried out during a trip outside the Schengen area from Brussels. The validity date of the test had expired by the date of the screenshot.
