This new travel policy will take effect in November. Along with being fully vaccinated, travelers heading to the US must test negative and show proof within three days of their departure flight.
“This vaccination requirement deploys the best tool we have in our arsenal to keep people safe and prevent the spread of the virus,” said White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator Jeff Zients in a statement.
The new policy will also welcome unvaccinated travelers, but with strict protocol. Unvaccinated travelers will be required to get tested both before arriving and leaving the US. According to The Guardian, the CDC will soon issue a contract order that will require airlines to get the traveler’s contact information like email, phone number, and other information to track that traveler.
This news was welcomed by many. British prime minister tweeted, “It’s a fantastic boost for business and trade, and great that family and friends on both sides of the pond can be reunited once again.”
Also, the American Society of Travel Advisors responded to the news with a statement, “We view this as a key milestone toward restarting the international travel system on which so many of our members depend.”
While this new travel policy is currently in process, there has not been any other information on when other travel restrictions would be lifted. 