On May 1, 2023, the Biden Administration announced that starting 12:00AM EST on May 12, 2023, international travelers arriving by air will no longer need to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination – or demonstrate eligibility for an exemption from said requirement – in order to enter the United States. Lifting this requirement, which has been in-place since November 8, 2021 and which never applied to U.S. Citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents, coincides with the Biden Administration’s decision to end the national and public health emergency for COVID-19 on that same day. In addition to international air travelers, yesterday’s announcement also confirmed that COVID-19 vaccine requirements will no longer apply to federal employees and contractors.
For many nonimmigrant international travelers, this announcement will not alter their comings and goings through the United States. But if you have questions regarding how this development may impact your ability to travel internationally, please do not hesitate to contact our office.
