New health declaration for U.S. travelers

The United States is introducing a new health requirement for travelers arriving by air. Starting on November 3, 2026, all international passengers must confirm they have not been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in the 21 days before their flight. This applies to all nationalities, including U.S. citizens and connecting passengers.

Timing of the requirement

The rule applies to flights departing from foreign countries to the U.S. starting at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on November 3, which is 5:59 a.m. on November 4 in Paris. The departure time determines if the requirement applies, not the arrival time in the U.S.

Duration of the measure

The requirement is initially set to last until 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on December 18, 2026. Health authorities may adjust the timeline based on the ongoing situation with Ebola in the DRC.

What the declaration covers

The form asks travelers to confirm they have not been in the DRC during the 21 days before boarding. This matches the maximum time it takes for the Ebola virus to develop symptoms after infection. The declaration is not a medical test but a public health precaution to prevent the spread of the disease.

Definition of presence in the DRC

The rule considers any presence in the DRC, including a brief stop at an airport or a layover. Even a short stay or passage by air, land, or sea counts as being present in the country.

Individual declarations required

Each traveler must submit their own declaration. A family or group cannot use a single form. For children under 18, a parent or guardian must sign on their behalf. Those with disabilities may have someone else complete the form for them.

Form availability and language

An official form is available on the CDC website in English. Airlines may offer translations, but they are responsible for ensuring accuracy. Travelers must complete the form before boarding, and airlines must verify it before allowing passengers to board.

Who is affected

The requirement applies to all travelers, regardless of nationality or country of departure. A French traveler boarding in Paris must provide the declaration, even if they have never been to Africa. It also applies to U.S. citizens and permanent residents, as well as those connecting through the U.S. to another destination.

Exemptions and exceptions

Travelers who have been in the DRC in the past 21 days cannot board flights to the U.S. unless granted an exemption. Exceptions may apply for medical transport, humanitarian work, or other government-authorized situations.

How to calculate the waiting period

The CDC explains that the day of departure from the DRC is day zero, and the first full day outside the country is day one. Travelers can board a flight to the U.S. starting on day 22, assuming all other conditions are met.

Submission and record-keeping

The declaration can be submitted in paper or digital format. Airlines must keep a copy for 42 days after the flight arrives and provide it to U.S. authorities if needed for health investigations. The declaration does not replace other travel documents like passports or visas.