U.S. Lifts COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement for Air Travelers and Updates Civil Surgeon Guidance

End of Air Passenger Vaccine Mandate

Effective 12:01 AM (ET) today, May 12, 2023, the COVID-19 vaccination requirement for all airline and other aircraft passengers arriving in the United States from any foreign country has been rescinded. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)’s Carrier Liaison Program announced this policy change, marking a significant step in the safe resumption of global travel.

Consequently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s Amended Order Implementing Presidential Proclamation on Safe Resumption of Global Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic will cease to be in effect.

Updated Vaccination Guidance for Immigration

In related news, the CDC has provided updated COVID-19 vaccine guidance to civil surgeons. This guidance applies to those performing the vaccination portion of the medical checkup for individuals seeking adjustment of status.