WASHINGTON – Starting today, foreign nationals who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and have the appropriate documentation will be allowed to enter the United States via land entry ports (POEs) and ferry terminals for non-essential reasons such as tourism. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is reminding these travelers to be ready to (1) provide proof of their COVID-19 vaccination, as on theCenters for Disease Control (CDC)Website; and (2) verbally certify the reason for travel and the COVID-19 vaccination status during a border control.
“Today, after more than 18 months of pandemic-related travel restrictions, the DHS is taking a decisive step towards resuming normal travel,” said Homeland Security Minister Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “Travelers who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and have appropriate documentation are now allowed to enter the United States through our land and ferry crossings for non-essential reasons such as visiting friends and family and participating in tourism. DHS continues to work closely with our international partners and local public health experts to resume travel sustainably while protecting our communities and economic security. “
US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at DHS is working to prevent long lines at land POUs and ferry terminals when normal travel resumes. However, long lines are expected in the first few days of catching up and CBP will adjust resources as needed while continuing to facilitate legitimate trade and travel and protect our national security. Travelers are advised to expect longer than normal waiting times when dealing with the new guidelines, and have the relevant documents ready at a border control.
US citizens are reminded of oneTravel initiative for the western hemisphere(WHTI) Compliant Document, such as a valid U.S. Passport, Trusted Traveler Program Card, Advanced Driver’s License, or Advanced Tribal Card, upon re-entry into the United States and should be willing to provide a WHTI Compliant Document if so one is required of a CBP officer at a border control. Any non-citizen who attempts to enter the United States illegally or without proper documentation can be expelled or expelled.
To reduce waiting times and long lines, travelers can take advantage of the benefitsFacial biometricsand theCBP One ™which is a single portal for CBP mobile applications and services.
To learn more about the updated traveler requirements, read the DHS factsheet.
