Biden administration plans to rescind COVID-19 travel bans: Requires proof of vaccination instead

On Sept. 20, 2021, the White House announced that it plans to rescind travel restrictions on international travelers from certain countries beginning in early November. Currently, there are travel bans on citizens of China, Iran, the Schengen area (EU), U.K., Ireland, Brazil, South Africa and India.

The White House plans to end those travel bans and replace them with a requirement that all international travelers prove they have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Additionally, international travelers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test within three days of boarding a flight to the U.S. There will be limited exceptions to the vaccination requirement, for example children of a certain age. It is yet to be determined what proof of vaccination will be accepted and which vaccines will be acceptable.

Further announcements will be made regarding implementation steps. The White House indicated that an early November start date would give various stakeholders time to ensure protocols and procedures are in place to make the new policy effective and efficient.

For more information on this topic, or to learn how Godfrey & Kahn can help, contact a member of our Labor, Employment & Immigration Law Practice Group.