Starting Saturday, non-U.S. citizens need to be fully vaccinated before entering the country by land or ferry, even if they are traveling for "essential" purposes.
The change was first announced in October and more closely aligns with air travel vaccination requirements to enter the United States. Travelers visiting the country could previously cross land ports or ferry terminals without proof of vaccination for essential reasons such as work and trade.
“These updated travel requirements reflect the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to protecting public health while safely facilitating the cross-border trade and travel that is critical to our economy,” Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a Thursday statement.
Unvaccinated U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents and U.S. nationals will still be able to enter the country via ferry or land port.
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I’m entering the US by land or ferry. What do I need to bring?
Non-U.S. citizens entering the country via land port or ferry terminal must:
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Verbally attest their COVID-19 vaccination status. “Full vaccination” is considered two weeks after a final dose in a single- or two-dose vaccination series, a full series in a clinical trial or two doses of any “mix-and-match" series.
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Provide proof of a CDC-approved COVID-19 vaccination.
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Present a valid Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative-compliant document such as a valid passport, Trusted Traveler Program card or Enhanced Tribal Card.
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Be prepared to present any other documents a U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer may request.
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Meet all other entry requirements not related to COVID-19.
Travelers entering the U.S. by land or ferry will not need to take a coronavirus test.
The DHS said it will expel travelers attempting to enter the United States through any illegal means or without proper documentation.
I’m a US citizen/permanent resident. Does anything change for me?
The new entry requirements do not apply to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents or U.S. nationals. However, the DHS says these travelers should remember to bring a Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative-compliant document (such as a passport) when traveling.
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What are the rules if I fly into the US as a non-citizen?
While there are limited exceptions, most travelers who are not U.S. citizens, permanent residents or U.S. immigrants must be fully vaccinated to enter the country by plane.
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