Heathrow Airport: America travel requirements and restrictions
Around this time of year, Brits usually think about jetting off to somewhere even sunnier and warmer. America is a popular holiday destination boasting numerous states to visit from California to Florida.
Before jetting off from Heathrow Airport and other airports across Britain, it is best to keep up to date with the latest travel guidance. Whilst it may seem that the coronavirus pandemic has diminished, there are some places that still have certain rules in place.
BerkshireLive has checked the latest Covid-19 travel advice for anyone wanting to catch those rays in sunny So-Cal. Rules are always subject to change so it is worth keeping up with travel guidance.
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Everyone travelling into the states needs to get a visa or an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) visa waiver. If you have been fully vaccinated, you will be able to enter the USA as long as you show proof.
Boarding a flight to the country, you will most likely need to show a negative Covid test, no matter what your vaccination status is. Those who are fully vaccinated do not need to quarantine, but are recommended to take a viral test within three to five days of arrival.
Foreign Office travel advice states: “If you are travelling domestically within the USA, individual states and territories may have their own quarantine requirements. A full list of local quarantine requirements is available on the CDC website.”
If you are not fully vaccinated, you cannot enter America unless you are US Citizens, US Nationals or US Lawful Permanent Residents. Anyone aged 17 or under is exempt from the vaccination requirement.
What Covid restrictions are in place in America?
In early 2021, President Joe Biden implemented safety measures which required the use of masks on public transport including airplanes, trains, buses and at airports. Numerous states have now eradicated the rule of mask wearing while in public.
However, rules do vary from state to state, so make sure you are familiar with the restrictions in place where ever you are going. Some areas also require proof of vaccination to access local amenities.
Foreign Office advice states: “Local regulations on shops, restaurants, bars, beaches and other leisure activities may be following measures designed to limit the spread of Covid-19. Some areas require proof of vaccination or evidence of a negative Covid-19 test in order to access local amenities. In certain localities, children aged 5 to 17 years may not be exempt from this requirement.”
