SAN DIEGO (Report to the border) – In less than a week, new guidelines will be in effect for travelers entering the United States through ports of entry and ferry terminals.
Starting November 8, people crossing the border on tourist visas will have access to the United States if they can prove they are fully vaccinated.
The new policy removes most of the restrictions on non-essential travel that were put in place in March 2020.
“We are pleased to take another step towards easing travel restrictions at our borders in a way that strengthens our economy and protects the health and safety of the American public,” Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro said. N. Mayorkas. “We continue to work closely with our international partners to implement new travel take-back rules in a sustainable manner. “
According to DHS, those who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents arriving at a port of entry or ferry terminal should be “prepared to:
- Provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination, as indicated on the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website;
- Verbally attesting to the reason for their trip and their COVID-19 vaccination status during a border inspection. “
Upon request from a CBP officer, individuals must provide vaccine documentation in hard copy or digital form.
Those aged 17 and under do not need to show proof if traveling with a fully vaccinated adult.
CBP has also said that any non-national attempting to enter the United States by illegal means or without proper documentation could be deported or returned.
Essential travel restrictions were instituted to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and limit travel along the northern and southern borders of the United States to essential travel, including travel for lawful business purposes, for intervention by emergency and public health.
CBP warns that as travel resumes, wait times at pedestrian and vehicle crossings are expected to increase and visitors should expect longer-than-normal wait times.
Patience is emphasized.
In order to reduce waiting times and long queues, CBP suggests travelers take advantage of innovative technologies, such as facial biometrics and the CBP One ™ mobile application, which serves as a single portal for individuals to access CBP’s mobile applications and services.
As of January 2022, all foreign travelers seeking to enter the United States through land ports of entry or ferry terminals – whether for essential or non-essential reasons – must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. and provide proof of related vaccination.
