Well, it’s nice to see that some governments can understand basic science. The Biden administration has confirmed plans to finally lift its all-encompassing travel ban, which prevented people visiting the USA if they were coming from the UK, the EU, India, China, South Africa, and many other high-profile countries.
USA travel ban on South Africa ‘will be lifted’ – but not for everyone
The travel ban has been crushing for the US tourism market, and airlines are on their knees after a dreadful 18 months. On Monday, White House officials confirmed that they were now shifting towards a policy that would allow travellers from areas previously designated as ‘off-limits’ to enter America – but only if they have been vaccinated.
“We know vaccines are effective, including against the delta variant, and vaccines are the best line of defense against Covid, so this vaccination requirement deploys the best tool we have in our arsenal to keep people safe and prevent the spread of the virus. We will protect Americans here at home and enhance the safety of international travel.”
No vaccine, no travel to the US for foreigners
If you’re a foreign citizen and you have not had a COVID-19 jab, then quite simply, you won’t be allowed to go Stateside. Biden is drawing a line in the sand between the vaccinated and unvaccinated, and stricter testing rules will be introduced if non-immunised Americans decide to fly to a different country.
Therefore, the travel ban will be lifted for ALL vaccinated South Africans, and we understand that the rules will come into place from November onwards. The following details about this policy have also been listed:
- Vaccinated travellers will have to show proof they’ve had their jabs while boarding at the airport.
- Even if immunised, US authorities will require proof of a negative test from three days before departure.
- The US will build a contract tracing system, asking travellers to provide names, phone numbers, and emails.
- Which vaccines will be recognised as ‘safe’ is yet to be decided, as have rules for the previously infected.
- This vaccine requirement will only apply to adults.