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Vaccine passports: How to prove you've gotten your COVID-19 shots for travel and avoid scams

Beth Marcus wants a vaccine passport. She's had both of her shots but can't prove it. Unless she can, she's afraid she may not be allowed to visit Europe.

How do you get a vaccine passport ?

The clinic where she received her shots issued a COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – a small, white paper card where she recorded both her vaccinations. Marcus, a retired finance worker from Frederick, Maryland, took a picture of the card, so she could show it to anyone who asks. She suspects it's not enough.

"I would like more substantial proof," she says.

New York launches nation's first 'vaccine passports': Others work on similar ideas, but many details must be worked out

Will you need a COVID-19 'vaccine passport' to travel?  Here's what they are and how they might work

Israel and Europe have taken the lead on developing a secure digital immunity certification. You may be able to get a COVID-19 vaccine passport by enrolling in one of the tests underway. In the meantime, you have a few imperfect options for showing you received your shots.

What is a vaccine passport? How would it work for travel?

"There's no vaccine passport in the United States," says Peter Vlitas, senior vice president of airline relations for Internova Travel Group. But we're close. The most promising one is the IATA Travel Pass . It's being tested among 22 airlines, and the airline trade organization expects to release it this month. It will be limited to air travel and border crossings.

Vaccine passports: The documents should be free, private and secure, White House says, but who will issue them?

TripActions ' app-based health passport, a private initiative that launches early next month, will allow travelers to upload and store all necessary documentation required for domestic and international travel within a centralized hub.

The only vaccine passport in widespread use is Israel's Green Pass . The certificate, available as either a smartphone app or paper ID using a QR code for authentication, allows users to prove their vaccine status in Israel. Passholders use their credentials to visit the gym, pool, restaurant or participate in any other activity previously restricted because of COVID-19. Only Israeli residents qualify for a Green Pass, but Israel is in discussions with other countries to have the passes accepted outside the country, according to the Ministry of Tourism.

The European Union is developing a Digital Green Certificate   to prove people have had their shots and "facilitate safe free movement" inside the EU during the pandemic. The vaccine ID, which is likely to be available by June, will be available in digital or paper format. 

In the USA, airlines have been pushing the government to create a vaccine passport for Americans , saying verifiable testing of vaccination data is "critical to the return of travel." 

New York  launched a version of a vaccine passport. The first-in-the-nation certification, called the Excelsior Pass, will be accepted at dozens of event, arts and entertainment venues statewide.

Patchwork problems:   Airlines ask White House to develop standardized COVID-19 travel 'passports'

There are so many vaccine passport proposals that it's almost impossible to track all of them, but they all have one thing in common: They are not officially recognized, at least for now. 

What should travelers do?

"There's a rush to deliver a digital vaccine passport solution, as many countries will make it mandatory to have proof of vaccinations and actively court vaccinated travelers," says Rajeev Shrivastava, CEO of VisitorsCoverage . 

How do you prove you're vaccinated? Here are your options:

Think about laminating your COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card

That's what Paula Miller and her husband did. 

"We felt that they would hold up better when we need to present them while traveling domestically or internationally," says Miller, a retired teacher from Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.

Like Marcus, she'd prefer the real thing. 

"We have flights to Paris scheduled for November," she says. "I hope that issue is resolved by then."

The biggest problem with lamination: The document isn't secure. (You can buy a COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card online for about $20 and fill it in yourself.) If boosters are needed, a laminated card might be a problem. But until we have a vaccine passport, this may have to do.

Fill in your WHO Yellow Card

If you received shots for a previous international trip, you have a World Health Organization (WHO) Yellow Card (International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis). "The Yellow Card has been the de facto standard for proving international vaccination compliance for decades," says Warren Jaferian , the dean for Endicott College 's Office of International Education in Beverly, Massachusetts.

I have a Yellow Card from previous trips, and when I received my shots, I asked the clinic to record the vaccines. I had to ask a supervisor, but he did. There are two issues with the Yellow Card. They are scarce (some have reported they're unavailable), and they are not secure. An e-Yellow Card is reportedly under development. 

Fly on a Travel Pass airline

If you can book a ticket on one of the airlines testing the IATA Travel Pass , you may be able to access the IATA vaccine passport. Those carriers include Virgin Atlantic, Japan's ANA, Emirates and Singapore Airlines. Travel Pass is still being evaluated, so there's no assurance that your digital passport will work on your next flight or that it will be accepted anywhere.

Until there's a real vaccine passport, you'll need to get creative. Marcus, who plans to visit the Baltics next year, created her own makeshift vaccine ID.

"I made a color copy of the original and had it laminated at Staples," she says. "I didn't laminate the original because I want it to be possible for boosters, if needed, to be recorded on the same document."

She hopes it will work. Timing is everything when it comes to certifying vaccination. At the rate things are going, the pandemic will end before America has a real vaccine passport.

Avoid these vaccine passport traps

Don't pay for it. A legitimate vaccine ID is free. Both the Israeli and proposed European version cost nothing. There are some unofficial vaccine IDs in the USA that make you pay for certification. They are not legit.

Make sure it's secure. You can buy a COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card or a World Health Organization Yellow Card online and fill it out. But it's not a secure record of your vaccination, and it probably won't work when the real thing comes along. Avoid any vaccine passport that doesn't have a QR code or a way to authenticate your vaccine status securely.

Find out if it's accepted. Several cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean ,  Virgin Voyages , Crystal Cruises and American Cruise Lines , announced they will begin to require proof of vaccination for passengers (at least on some of their voyages), though they haven't specified which records will be accepted. Your travel adviser can tell you what type of proof will be accepted by the cruise line. Don't take chances – get the right vaccine passport, or you could be left high and dry.

COVID-19 vaccine tracker: How many people have been vaccinated in the US?

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What to Know About Testing and Vaccine Requirements for Travel

Do you need to be vaccinated or have a negative Covid-19 test for your next trip? Check this guide before traveling domestically or abroad.

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By Concepción de León

As vaccinations ramp up and regulations loosen for people in the United States, many are planning travel for summer and beyond, with experts predicting that July 4 will be the biggest travel weekend since the beginning of the pandemic.

But with regulations shifting, people might have questions about testing or vaccination requirements for their trips. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently eased travel recommendations to more than 100 countries. On June 18, the European Union added the United States to its “safe list” of countries , meaning that both vaccinated and unvaccinated American travelers should now be able to visit the 27 member countries, but these member states are allowed to set their own requirements and restrictions for travelers.

In the United States, the C.D.C. has advised that vaccinated people no longer need to wear masks in most places and released new travel guidelines that said domestic travel is safe for them. But travelers must take note of local advice and regulations, as these can vary state by state.

Here’s everything you need to consider about testing and vaccinations before you travel within the U.S. or internationally.

Are there testing and vaccination requirements for domestic travel?

For most places, no. You do not need to be vaccinated for any domestic travel. Hawaii is the only state that requires a negative test for travel.

In Hawaii, the test must be administered within 72 hours of arrival and the results uploaded to its Safe Travel platform to avoid a mandatory quarantine when entering the state.

Alternatively in Hawaii, you can also provide proof that you’ve recovered from Covid-19 in the past 90 days, including both a positive test result and a letter from a doctor clearing you to travel.

The state’s governor, David Ige, said this month that people who received their vaccination in the state of Hawaii may bypass testing and quarantine requirements starting on June 15, and that anyone vaccinated in the U.S. will be able to enter Hawaii without testing once the state has reached a 60 percent vaccination rate.

If you are unvaccinated, you should continue to adhere to social distancing and mask-wearing protocols while traveling domestically, the C.D.C. said . You can use the C.D.C.’s Travel Planner to check guidelines by state.

What are the testing and vaccination rules for international travel?

While testing and vaccination requirements vary by destination country, everyone arriving in the U.S. — even vaccinated Americans — must present a negative test result upon entry .

Many nations are still closed to American travelers. Those that are open may require a negative test, proof of vaccination or evidence of recovery (or a combination of these) to enter.

The United Kingdom , for instance, requires that American travelers, regardless of vaccination status, provide proof of a negative test taken within 72 hours of departure, quarantine upon arrival and take two additional tests during their stay. Children under 11 are exempt from these requirements, as are some other people depending on their reason for travel.

Some European countries have been allowing in Americans who are vaccinated or who can show a negative test. Americans are on the European Union’s “safe list” of countries, but while the bloc aims to take a coordinated approach to travel this summer, member states will be allowed to set their own requirements for travelers from individual countries, which could include testing and vaccination.

The E.U. “safe list” also applies to Europe’s border-free Schengen Zone, which includes non-E.U. countries such as Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Lichtenstein.

Canada is still closed to Americans , with few exceptions, and will remain so until at least early July, said Patty Hajdu, the country’s minister of health, in a news conference in June.

The U.S.-Mexico land border is closed for nonessential travel until at least June 21, but air travel is allowed and the country does not require a negative test for entry. Because of its high risk level, the C.D.C. recommends that travelers be fully vaccinated before traveling to Mexico.

Consult the C.D.C.’s inventory of international travel health notices for more information on regulations by country.

“Travelers should always check with their airline and the embassy of the country they are visiting to ensure they have the proper documentation required to enter the country,” said Perry Flint, a spokesman for The International Air Transport Association, a global airline industry group.

What test should I take, and where and when?

To enter the U.S., travelers must show a negative result to a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) — PCR is a type of NAAT test — or an antigen test, also known as a rapid test, taken in the three days before departure, according to the C.D.C .

Some airports offer on-site testing, such as Heathrow Airport in England, or Rome’s Fiumicino International Airport in Italy.

Josh Alexander, a New York-based luxury travel agent for Protravel International, said that many international hotels, including most Four Seasons hotels and resorts , are offering on-site rapid tests for free or at a nominal cost.

Testing at local clinics is also available in many places, though you should check availability at your destination ahead of time and book if you can. It may also come at a high cost. Mr. Alexander said that PCR tests abroad can range from $50 to $150.

The C.D.C. said that it allows for a three-day time frame rather than 72 hours to allow flexibility in the time of day the test can be taken. For instance, if you are flying out on a Friday, the test may be taken at any time on Tuesday.

But, when it comes to international destinations, Mr. Alexander recommends erring on the side of caution when timing your test by calculating it based on time of arrival at your destination.

“Rules are constantly changing,” he said, “so we’re just trying to always tell people they should always be as conservative as possible to eliminate any gray area.”

What are the requirements for minors?

The C.D.C. testing recommendations apply to all children 2 years and older, which means your toddler also needs to deliver a negative Covid-19 test to enter the U.S. from abroad. When traveling, children should wear masks, practice social distancing and wash hands often, the C.D.C. said .

“If the kids are age 12 and older, get ’em vaccinated,” said William Schaffner, an infectious disease expert at Vanderbilt University, in an email.

If you’re traveling to a country within the European Union that is open to travelers from the U.S., children who cannot be vaccinated should have a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival at your destination, and additional testing may be required upon arrival.

Travelers should check with their airline or destination country website for relevant requirements.

What if I want to go on a cruise?

Rules vary from one cruise line to another, with some planning to require that all passengers and crew be vaccinated, and others adopting a hybrid model.

But recent laws passed in Florida and Texas banning businesses from requiring proof of vaccination to use their services may complicate this plan.

Celebrity Cruises, set to be the first U.S. cruise ship to restart operations on June 26 from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., said it’s optimistic that a resolution would be reached in time . It is requiring that guests 16 years and older be vaccinated, while children will be tested at the terminal.

Carnival Cruises said on Monday that its first ship would set sail from the Port of Galveston, in Texas, on July 3 and would be available only for vaccinated passengers. Norwegian, which will begin to operate cruises from Miami in August, said it will require the same through October 31 and has threatened to skip Florida ports if the state does not allow cruise lines an exemption from the law banning vaccine requirements.

Christine Duffy, the president of Carnival Cruise Line, said in a statement on June 7 that “the current CDC requirements for cruising with a guest base that is unvaccinated will make it very difficult to deliver the experience our guests expect, especially given the large number of families with younger children who sail with us.”

“As a result, our alternative is to operate our ships from the U.S. during the month of July with vaccinated guests,” she said.

But even if you are vaccinated, you must also consider the requirements of the country where the cruise is disembarking. The Caribbean island of St. Maarten, for instance, where Celebrity Cruises started sailing on June 5, requires a negative test in addition to proof of vaccination.

What documents should I bring with me if I travel?

This will also depend on where you’re going, but a good rule of thumb is to carry your physical vaccine card, if you have it, and proof of a negative test, if it is required.

Mr. Alexander, the travel agent, recommends people bring the original documents. While a number of digital health certificates — which show vaccine status and test results — are in the works, he said, they are not yet widely accepted. You should check, also, that your document is in the correct language. The United Kingdom , for instance, requires that test results be in English, Spanish or French.

CommonPass , from the Geneva-based nonprofit the Commons Project Foundation, and the I.A.T.A. Travel Pass are two apps providing digital access to vaccine and testing records for travel. The European Union will be releasing its own digital Covid certificate for E.U. citizens by July 1, though it is unclear whether Americans will be able to use it.

You should check with your airline to see if the app you want to use will be accepted at your destination. Both the CommonPass and I.A.T.A. websites list destinations and airline partners accepting the digital health certificates.

Mr. Alexander added that some countries, such as Croatia, may also require proof of a return flight or confirmation of your hotel booking or other accommodation, though this is rare. In South Africa, which has implemented a curfew, travelers may need to show their flight ticket to law enforcement officers to show they are allowed to be in transit.

But these shifting regulations should not dissuade people from traveling, Mr. Alexander said.

“If you’re vaccinated and you’re following safe precautions, you can still have a great experience,” he said.

Concepción de León is a travel reporter based in New York. More about Concepción de León

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International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP)

How to fill out an icvp, how to reissue an icvp, vaccine exemptions (medical waivers), contraindications to required vaccines, where to order icvp.

International Health Regulations (IHR) allow countries to require arriving travelers 1 to provide proof of vaccination against certain diseases. The International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), also referred to as the “yellow card,” is the official, internationally recognized document that travelers use to document proof of vaccination for diseases included under the IHR.

Currently, vaccination against yellow fever, and in some instances, polio, must be documented using the ICVP. Travelers should check CDC’s webpage for their destination to learn if vaccination is required before entry.

There are currently no requirements to use the ICVP to document vaccination(s) against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Yellow Fever Vaccine

Some countries require all travelers to show proof of yellow fever vaccination before entering the country. Other countries require proof of vaccination from travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever virus exposure; for people visiting multiple countries, the order of travel may be important. Travelers should check CDC’s webpage for their destination to learn if yellow fever vaccination is required or recommended before entry.

Yellow fever vaccination (travel) clinics  administer yellow fever vaccine and issue ICVPs to vaccine recipients. The ICVP must be validated with the Uniform Stamp of the center where the vaccine was given. CDC does not issue ICVPs.

ICVPs are valid beginning 10 days after the date of vaccination. Travelers who do not provide a valid ICVP may be denied entry, quarantined, or asked to get revaccinated at the point of entry to a country.

Travelers who received the yellow fever vaccination after December 15, 2007, must provide proof of vaccination on the new ICVP. If a person received the vaccine before December 15, 2007, their original ICVP card is still valid as proof of vaccination against yellow fever.

For more information, visit the CDC Yellow Book chapter: Yellow Fever .

Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV)

Travelers should check CDC’s webpage for their destination to learn if polio vaccination is recommended before entry. Even previously vaccinated travelers might need a one-time booster shot before traveling to countries with a risk of infection with polio virus . Travelers visiting a country with a high risk for polio may be required to show proof of vaccination against polio on their ICVP when departing that country.

For more information, visit the CDC Yellow Book chapter Polio and the Polio Vaccine for International Travelers webpage.

Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine (MenACWY)

Some countries require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against meningococcal disease. Some people who received a previous dose of meningococcal vaccine might need a booster shot. It takes 7–10 days after a person has been vaccinated before they have maximum protection against the disease.

Travelers aged 2 years or older visiting Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah are required to submit proof of vaccination against meningococcal disease administered no less than 10 days and no more than 5 years (or 3 years for polysaccharide vaccine) before their arrival. This proof of vaccination can be documented on an ICVP, but can also be documented elsewhere. For more information, visit CDC’s Yellow Book chapters: Meningococcal Disease and Saudi Arabia: Hajj/Umrah Pilgrimage .

For all required vaccines

(1) Print the traveler’s name exactly as it appears on their passport.

(2), (5), (7) Enter all dates as shown: day (in numerals), month (in letters), year. In the example above, the traveler’s date of birth is correctly entered as 22 March 1960. Do not use DD/MM/YY or MM/DD/YY format.

(3) This space is reserved for the traveler’s signature.

(4) Write the name of the vaccine (yellow fever, polio, meningococcal) in this space. Other vaccinations can be listed on the other side of the ICVP card.

(5) Enter the date of vaccine administration, as shown.

(6) This space is reserved for the clinician’s handwritten signature. A signature stamp is not acceptable.

For Yellow Fever Vaccine

(4) Print “Yellow Fever” in both spaces.

(6) The clinician signing the ICVP can be the yellow fever vaccine Uniform Stamp owner, or another healthcare provider authorized by the stamp owner to administer or supervise the vaccine administration.

(7) The certificate of yellow fever vaccination is valid beginning 10 days after the date of primary vaccination. Add that date to this box along with the suggested wording “life of person vaccinated,” as shown.

(8) Imprint the Uniform Stamp of the vaccinating center in this box.

For Polio Vaccine

(4) Print “Polio” (or “Poliomyelitis”) in both spaces and the specific vaccine that the traveler received in the box.

(6) The clinician administering the polio vaccine should sign their name and indicate their professional status. If transcribing the record of a polio vaccine administered by another clinician in the past 12 months, the transcribing clinician should clearly record the administering clinician’s name and professional status and sign their own name.

(7) The certificate of polio vaccination is valid from the date of vaccination for 1 year.

For Meningococcal Vaccine

(4) Print “Meningococcal” in both spaces and the specific vaccine that the traveler received in the box.

(6) The clinician administering the meningococcal vaccine should sign their name and include their professional status. If transcribing the record of a meningococcal vaccine administered by another clinician in the past 5 years (3 years for polysaccharide vaccine), the transcribing clinician should clearly record the administering clinician’s name and professional status and sign their own name.

(7) For Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, the vaccine must have been administered between 10 days to 5 years (3 years for polysaccharide vaccine) before arrival to Saudi Arabia.

Clinicians may reissue a replacement ICVP to the traveler if they can confirm that the traveler’s vaccine information is accurate.

For All Vaccines

In addition to following all directions in the How to Fill Out an ICVP section, follow these steps to ensure certain sections of the replacement ICVP are correctly filled out

• Date: Enter the date of the original vaccination, not the date of reissuance.
• Signature and professional status of supervising clinician: The clinician who has confirmed the traveler’s information and is reissuing the ICVP should sign.
• Manufacturer and batch no. of vaccine or prophylaxis: Print manufacturer name and lot number.
• For Yellow Fever Vaccine Only: Official stamp of the administering center: The Uniform Stamp of the vaccinating center reissuing the ICVP card should appear in this box.

For international travelers with a medical contraindication to a required vaccine, it is up to the discretion of the clinician to provide them with a medical waiver. Advise the traveler that the destination country might not accept a medical waiver. Acceptance of the medical waiver is at the discretion of the destination country.

To improve the likelihood that border officials at a travelers’ destination will accept a medical waiver and approve entry, travelers should

• Obtain specific and authoritative advice from the embassy or consulate of the destination country or countries.
• Request documentation of requirements for waivers from embassies or consulates and present these, along with the completed Medical Contraindication to Vaccination section of the ICVP.

How to Fill Out an Exemption (Medical Waiver)

Complete and sign the “Medical Contraindications to Vaccination” section of the ICVP. Reasons other than medical contraindications are not acceptable for exemption from vaccination. Yellow fever vaccine providers should validate medical exemptions to yellow fever vaccine using the Uniform Stamp of the yellow fever vaccination center.

Clinicians should also provide the traveler with a signed and dated exemption letter on letterhead stationery, clearly stating the contraindications to vaccination (e.g., age, diagnosis of an immunocompromising condition, allergic reaction). For medical contraindications to yellow fever vaccine, include on the exemption letter an imprint of the Uniform Stamp used by the yellow fever vaccination center to validate the ICVP.

Yellow Fever

Yellow fever vaccine is contraindicated for people with certain underlying health conditions because of the increased risk for serious adverse events. Visit CDC’s Yellow Book chapter: Yellow Fever or the Yellow Fever Vaccine Recommendations webpage.

Do not administer IPV to people who have experienced a life-threatening allergic reaction after a dose of IPV or a severe allergy to any part of this vaccine. For moderately or severely ill people, delay vaccine administration until they recover. Visit the CDC Yellow Book chapter: Polio or the Polio Vaccination webpage for more information on who should not get the polio vaccination.

Meningococcal

MenACWY vaccines should not be administered to people who have experienced a life-threatening allergic reaction after a previous dose of the meningococcal vaccine or a severe allergy to any part of the vaccine. Pregnant people and people who are moderately or severely ill should talk with their healthcare provider before receiving the vaccine. Visit the CDC Yellow Book chapter: Meningococcal Disease or the Meningococcal Vaccine webpage for more information on who should not get the meningococcal vaccine.

ICVPs are available for purchase from the Government Printing Office bookstore. Individual copies are not available. To order, please visit U.S. Government Bookstore or call toll-free (866) 512-1800. Packages of 25 are available for $25 for the United States and $35 for international. Delivery time for orders varies based on shipping options. To have orders mailed via a shipping service, please place your order by phone.

1 Arriving travelers include people in transit on connecting flights.

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Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
• Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
• You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
• CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.

Accessing My Vaccination Certificate and Vaccination Certificate QR Code in VAMS

Frequently asked questions, when is my vaccination certificate available.

• A vaccination certificate is created in VAMS after a healthcare professional logs a COVID-19 vaccine dose for a recipient in VAMS.
• VAMS automatically updates vaccination certificates if healthcare professionals make applicable edits to the recipient vaccination records in VAMS.

What is in my vaccination certificate?

• The vaccination certificate will include information about the date(s) of COVID-19 vaccine administration, vaccine manufacturer, lot number, and clinic (vaccine administration site) name.
• The recipient’s vaccination certificate only reflects the COVID-19 vaccination dose(s) documented in VAMS.

How can I use my vaccination certificate?

• After the recipient receives the required number of COVID-19 vaccine dose(s) to complete the vaccination schedule, the certificate can serve as a recipient’s COVID-19 vaccination record documented in VAMS.
• Recipients can access their vaccination certificate in the Recipient Portal at any time.

How to View Your Vaccine Certificate and Generate Your Vaccines Certificate QR Code

View my vaccination certificate.

• If you selected VAMS Recipient Login , enter the email and password associated with your VAMS Recipient Account.
• If you selected Proceed as Guest , select Manage Appointments . Enter all required information to identify your Recipient Profile. A Confirmation Code will be sent to your preferred method of contact. Enter this Confirmation Code into the blank field in the Verification Code pop-up window. Click Verify .
• Within the Recipient Portal, select the My Appointments tab at the top of the screen.
• Click the blue hyperlinked text, View Your Vaccination Certificate .
• A pop-up window will display your Certificate of COVID-19 Vaccination.

Generate my vaccination certificate QR code

• From the pop-up window with your Certificate of COVID-19 Vaccination, select Generate QR Code .
• The PIN needs to be 6–8 alphanumeric characters.
• Click Save .
• VAMS will return you to your Recipient Portal.
• To print the QR code, select Print , located under the QR code.
• To change the pin for accessing your vaccination certificate, select Change QR Code PIN . Follow the same steps as you would to initially set up your QR Code PIN.
• When scanned by an external user, the QR code will generate a link to an external site. The page will prompt you to enter your QR Code PIN. Enter your PIN and click Continue . Once you enter your PIN, vaccination details will display.

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
• Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
• You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
• CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.

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You are here: Home Newsroom News Boots launches new COVID-19 lateral flow tests as government announces plans to limit free testing

Boots launches new COVID-19 lateral flow tests as government announces plans to limit free testing

Boots will launch a COVID-19 lateral flow test available to buy in stores ,  with prices from £2.50 per test    

Boots will also offer a lateral flow test for £5.99 per test or £17 for a pack of four including delivery, available on boots.com from tomorrow. T hese tests will offer customers the option to send results to the UK Health Security Agency if needed  

Following the g overnment’s announcement to limit free COVID-19 test ing from 1 st April,  Boots has announced it will launch  affordable  COVID-19 lateral flow tests in its stores and online, for asymptomatic testing.   

From tomorrow, customers can purchase a pack of four lateral flow tests for £17, or one test for £5.99, from boots.com, with both options including delivery. This test will offer customers an option to send their results to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) to report a negative test, should customers need it.*  

From early March , the health and beauty retailer will also offer lateral flow tests at over 400 Boots stores, priced at just £2.50 for a single test or £12 for a pack of five. These tests will also be available on boots.com, alongside a bundle for two tests at £4.75 and four tests at £9.50.**

Asif Aziz, Director of Healthcare Services at Boots UK, said: “We are pleased to be expanding our COVID-19 testing services even further , with affordable lateral flow testing options for those who still want peace of mind from asymptomatic testing after 1  April.   

“While it is great that we are returning to normal and finding a way to live with COVID-19, we encourage our customers and patients to stay safe and continue to take measures to limit the spread of the virus, especially to those in vulnerable groups.”  

Boots continues to offer a broad range of private COVID-19 testing services , including pre- and post-travel testing.  

*Customers can report results to the UKHSA but cannot use these tests as a verified test for travel requiring a negative antigen test certificate.  

 ** These tests can be bought off the shelves from stores. When purchased via boots.com , our standard delivery charges will apply. Delivery is free on boots.com where total orders are over £25. For orders under £25 we charge £3.75 for standard delivery, £4.95 for next day delivery. Customers can also collect from store for £1.50 or free if the total order is under £15.

What’s new at Boots? Find out the latest updates from the UK’s largest pharmacy-led health and beauty chain – from new products and services to important business developments.

Take a closer look at our team members and the work they do, learn more about our corporate social responsibility initiatives and see how we work behind the scenes.

Boots is the UK’s leading health and beauty retailer with over 52,000 team members and 2,100 stores, ranging from local community pharmacies to large destination health and beauty stores.*

Boots serves its customers and patients for life as the leading provider of healthcare on the high street and the UK’s number one beauty destination. It offers an unrivalled depth and breadth of products, which incorporates its extensive own brand range and innovative portfolio of brands, including No7, the UK’s No1 skincare brand, Soap & Glory, Liz Earle Beauty and Sleek MakeUP.

2024 marks Boots’ 175 th  anniversary year. Founder John Boot opened a herbalist store in Nottingham in 1849 to offer an affordable alternative to traditional medicines. His son Jesse expanded the business to become a modern retailer and the biggest chemist in Britain.  Throughout its history, Boots has listened, learned and innovated, and it continues to challenge itself to improve its products and services every day.

Boots is part of Walgreens Boots Alliance, which is a global leader in pharmacy-led, health and wellbeing retail.  More company information is available on   boots-uk.com .

*Figures accurate as of 30 November 2023

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• Vaccinations for COVID-19

What your NHS COVID Pass letter tells you (easy read)

Easy-read version of the non-personal information in your NHS COVID Pass letter about your COVID-19 status.

This publication was withdrawn on 27 March 2024

This guidance was withdrawn on 8 December 2023 

The NHS COVID Pass service has now closed. There are no longer any domestic requirements to demonstrate your vaccination status in England. 

The NHS COVID Pass is no longer required to travel abroad to any countries. 

If you are travelling abroad, you should review  travel entry requirements  for the countries you will visit or travel through. 

The NHS COVID Pass was developed at the height of the pandemic to let you share your COVID-19 vaccination status in a secure way. It was mainly used for international travel, as well as for some domestic purposes, such as entry to venues or events. 

See information about COVID certificates in  Guernsey ,  Jersey  and the  Isle of Man .

Applies to England

What your nhs covid pass letter for travel tells you (easy read).

PDF , 2.36 MB , 6 pages

Your NHS COVID Pass letter is used for travel abroad and to show others that you have had a full course of the COVID-19 vaccine (including a booster vaccination if you have received one).

You should get the letter within 7 working days of requesting one.

If you do not have access to a smartphone, computer or tablet, you can request a letter by calling 119 from within the UK. Select the ‘NHS COVID Pass service’ and ask for an NHS COVID Pass letter to be posted to you.

Find out more about using your NHS COVID Pass for travel abroad .

Updated information about the NHS COVID Pass letter.

Added easy-read version of 'What your NHS COVID Pass letter for domestic use tells you'.

Updated to include information about single dose and 2-dose letters.

Changing title of guidance to reflect that from 21 June 2021, the NHS service to demonstrate your COVID-19 vaccination status is now called the NHS COVID Pass.

First published.

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How to Get a COVID Test for International Travel

A negative covid test continues to be a requirement to travel the world—including for entry into the united states. here’s how to get the right test when you need it..

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COVID tests are the must-have travel item of the pandemic.

Photo by Shutterstock

The need for COVID testing doesn’t appear to be going away anytime soon. Even as more people get vaccinated worldwide against COVID-19, variants such as Delta and Omicron have put numerous countries on high alert. Once again, there are new—and in some cases, stricter—COVID testing requirements for travel.

As of December 6, the United States began requiring that all international arrivals get tested for COVID no more than one calendar day before flying to the United States , regardless of vaccination status. That’s down from three days prior, making it even more of a last-minute challenge to get tested before flying to the U.S.

France and the United Kingdom also reintroduced COVID testing requirements in December for all travelers, regardless of vaccination status. The sudden developments served as a reminder of how quickly travelers sometimes have to scramble to find tests that satisfy new rules—for many, it’s overnight. How do you stay on top of so many changes? How do you know what you need? Look here for starters.

Whether travelers are in search of a COVID test before heading abroad or need to re-enter the U.S., here are the (numerous) options and ways to get a COVID test for international travel.

What kind of COVID test is required to enter the U.S.?

According to the official order issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID tests that satisfy the U.S. entry requirement include a PCR test, antigen test (including a rapid antigen test), or an approved home or self test , which means that there are some easier options than a PCR test, the results for which can take longer to obtain—though, there are services that offer “rapid PCR” tests, usually for an added cost.

CDC-approved COVID self tests for international travel

The BinaxNOW Antigen home kit is sold as a six-pack for $150, which comes out to $25 for each kit.

Courtesy of Abbott

For travelers who are worried about obtaining a PCR or antigen test within a day of flying back to the U.S., there is the option of bringing a set of COVID-19 home or self tests with them. The CDC has approved a handful of self tests for international travel. They include the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Home Test , the Ellume COVID-19 Home Test with Azova , and Cue COVID-19 tests —all of which we have reviewed .

The tests can be self-administered—meaning you do your own nasal swab—but to meet the CDC requirements, they must be paired with a supervised telehealth video call in real time. (The above tests include the telehealth call service.) Travelers, take note: You must have a reliable internet connection wherever you plan to administer the test, so logging into the telehealth video call isn’t an issue.

Related We Reviewed the CDC-Approved COVID Home Tests for International Travel—Here’s What to Know

How to find a testing site abroad

Want to find out if the country you’re planning to visit has COVID testing sites that can turn around results within a day? A great place to start is the U.S. State Department’s detailed COVID-19 travel information and country-specific advisories , which include an entire section on COVID-19 testing for each country. Right up front, the section answers the question of whether PCR and/or antigen tests are available to U.S. citizens and whether test results are reliably available within one calendar day. It also often includes information about where and how to obtain such tests.

Another good resource is TestforTravel.com , where you can search any international destination for testing centers and filter by the specific type of COVID-19 test you’re looking for.

The good news is that testing has ramped up worldwide, and it has become more widely available at international airports and hotels. Travel companies—including airlines, cruise lines, and tour operators—and travel advisors are also stepping in to help international travelers either actually get tested or find testing sites in their destination. The bad news is that pricing varies wildly. Tests can run anywhere from several dollars to several hundred dollars, which can make travel budgeting a bit of a nightmare.

American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines have all developed resources to provide passengers with international testing information. American is doing so with the VeriFly app , a global health pass that allows users to more easily upload their health data.

Through its United app, United has added a feature called the “ Travel-Ready Center ” (located in the “My Trips” section of the app or online at United.com ). Once passengers access the Travel-Ready Center, they can identify COVID-19 travel requirements for upcoming trips, find local testing options, and upload proof of test results (as well as vaccination status).

Delta, too, has developed an easy COVID-19 testing search function on its website through which travelers can find testing center locations in numerous global destinations.

How to find a COVID test in the U.S. to travel internationally

First and foremost, you need to make sure you’re up to date on the latest entry requirements for the country or countries you plan to visit, or even just enter—there’s never been a better time to fly nonstop. As we have seen throughout the pandemic, these rules can change very quickly at times.

Again, the U.S. State Department’s country-specific COVID-19 advisories are a great place to start to find up-to-date entry rules and requirements. We have also rounded up our favorite interactive map tools that provide updated global COVID-19 travel information.

Once you know what’s required, whether you need a PCR or antigen test, for example, and within what time frame (between two and three days, or 48 to 72 hours, is the most common requirement), you can begin to track down testing options near you.

Mail-in COVID self tests

COVID testing throughout the U.S. is patchy at best in terms of availability and reliability, and it varies enormously from city to city, county to county, and state to state. Earlier this month, President Biden announced that at-home COVID tests will become more available and will be covered by private insurance plans. Additional details will be available in January, but there are a few home or self tests that travelers can stock up on with mail-in options that may qualify for health insurance reimbursement and that satisfy certain international government requirements for entry. (Of course, if the COVID test entry requirement is a very tight time frame—say, two or three days prior to travel—these mail-in options might not work.)

Note that these tests can be used for travel from the U.S. to international destinations that will accept the results , not the other way around. The tests that work for inbound travel to the U.S. from abroad were mentioned above and were reviewed by AFAR editors.

Here are some of the options we have found for self tests that could work for travel:

• EverlyWell COVID-19 Test Home Collection Kit DTC ($109 per test, or discounted for $81.75 with code GIVEMORE): This FDA-authorized PCR test is delivered within two to eight business days of order, so it should be ordered at least a couple of weeks before travel. Once you receive it, take the self-administered test and mail it the same day using the included overnight delivery label. Upon receiving the sample, the lab will provide results within 24 to 48 hours.
• Pixel by Labcorp COVID-19 Test At-Home Collection Kit ($119 per test): An FDA-authorized PCR test that is typically delivered within two days of order. The self test includes a FedEx overnight label that travelers use to send the sample back to the lab, where results are processed within one to two days.
• LetsGetChecked COVID-19 Pre-Flight Test & Lab Report ($109 per test): A home testing kit that travelers can order in advance. The company advises at least five days prior to travel (but why not stock up even earlier than that?). After collecting the sample yourself using a nasal swab, you then send it to the lab with a prepaid next-day delivery label, and results can be expected within 24 to 72 hours after arriving in the lab. This is also an FDA-authorized PCR test.

In-person COVID testing options in the U.S.

Large pharmacy chains such as CVS and Walgreens , healthcare networks, and county and state health agencies are among the numerous entities that offer COVID testing but not always with the guarantee of receiving results within a specific two- or three-day window. Travelers may need to rely on pricier local private providers and urgent care centers (such as CityMD and Medical Offices of Manhattan in New York and COVIDCheckToday in Southern California, Denver, Las Vegas, and Miami) to get a test for travel quickly. DMCOVID-19 Test is a nationwide testing service that does house calls and offers same- and next-day results—for a hefty fee; same-day services will run you around $300 and next-day around $220.

Getting tested at the airport

Another option (or backup option if waiting until just before departure is a little too nerve wracking for you) is to get tested at the airport.

XpresSpa Group’s XpresCheck brand now has COVID-19 testing locations at 11 U.S. airports, including Atlanta, Boston, Denver, Dulles, Houston, Newark, New York (JFK), Phoenix, Seattle, and San Francisco. Services include a standard PCR test with results within 48 to 96 hours (for $75) and a rapid PCR test with results within 60 minutes (for a much heftier $250). Beyond XpresCheck, countless U.S. airports have their own testing facilities as well now, so travelers can look into options at their local hub.

U.S. airports that have COVID testing facilities include:

• Los Angeles International Airport
• Oakland International Airport
• San Diego International Airport
• Connecticut’s Bradley International Airport
• Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport
• Miami International Airport
• Tampa International Airport
• Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (Honolulu, Hawai‘i)
• Chicago O’Hare International Airport
• Chicago Midway International Airport
• Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport
• New York’s LaGuardia Airport
• Portland International Airport
• Philadelphia International Airport
• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport

What happens if you test positive?

“If you were to test positive for COVID-19 while overseas, you would need to postpone your trip back to the United States, potentially for several weeks. All travelers should have a plan B,” the U.S. State Department’s Acting Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs, Ian Brownlee, said during a January 26 media briefing when the testing requirement for international travelers entering the U.S. was first introduced.

Brownlee noted that U.S. travelers should consider where they would stay, the cost of an extended stay, and the repercussions they would face if they could not immediately return, whether for work, for childcare issues, or other responsibilities.

“Think through the answers to these important questions carefully” prior to committing to travel plans, Brownlee said. Another recommendation he has for international travelers: Consider travel insurance that covers COVID-19 medical treatments and COVID-19 related travel disruptions.

And the same goes for outbound travel—travelers need to consider what kind of safeguards they have in place, including the cancellation policies for all components of their trip, in the event that they or anyone in their travel group tests positive before flying out.

>> Next: The Best Travel Plan This Holiday Season: A Backup Plan

Traveling soon? Here’s where you can quickly get a COVID-19 test

If you've tried to get a COVID-19 test for travel or for peace of mind recently, you might have run into significant delays.

The omicron variant has complicated travel plans and, depending on where in the country you're located, made it difficult — if not impossible — to get a test. Some companies are reporting shortages, and in major cities like New York , blocks-long lines have formed of people trying to get tested.

For more TPG travel news and tips delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our free daily newsletter.

Unfortunately, COVID-19 testing is still a reality for the times in which we live.

Earlier this year, some countries dropped testing requirements for fully vaccinated travelers as more people got COVID-19 vaccines. But depending on where you want to go (and as omicron spreads) a negative COVID-19 test result might be required, particularly if you're not vaccinated or are traveling with unvaccinated children.

If you need a COVID-19 test for travel , you might be wondering where you can get one, what type of test you'll need to take, how long it will take to get an appointment (and wait for results), and what it will cost. To help you prepare, we researched where you can get tested in 25 major metropolitan areas. We found that some tests are entirely free , while others require a copay or are covered with insurance. Some will require full cash payment when requested for travel (instead of due to symptoms or exposure).

Some destinations require negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests taken within a certain time , usually 72 hours, before departure. Many facilities can provide results between 48 and 72 hours, but that isn't always true – especially now.

Also, keep in mind that some testing sites deliver results over the phone, which likely won't be suitable for boarding an aircraft or entering a country.

What type of COVID-19 test do you need?

Antigen test. Rapid test. PCR test. RT-PCR test. Antibody test. Take-home test. If you've taken a COVID-19 test during the pandemic , you might have been bewildered by the sheer number of options.

Keeping track of which COVID-19 test you need can seem daunting. Not all COVID-19 tests are created equal, and not all are suitable for international travel.

You'll usually need a PCR test (polymerase chain reaction) for travel. These are the most reliable tests for detecting active COVID-19 infections and are considered the "gold standard" of testing. In this guide, we'll primarily focus on testing sites that provide these more accurate PCR tests, though keep in mind that some destinations, like Hawaii, only accept PCR tests from a specific list of testing providers .

The tests that often won't help you with travel are antibody tests, blood tests that can identify if a previous COVID-19 infection caused your immune system to produce COVID-19 antibodies. Some destinations also won't accept rapid antigen tests , which check for proteins on the virus's surface. These tests are popular for quick turnaround times but are less accurate than PCR tests and aren't valid to enter some countries, such as Canada .

Check to see if you can get a rapid PCR test

Though PCR tests generally take around 72 hours for results, some urgent care facilities have introduced "rapid PCR tests," where you can receive your results as fast as 30 minutes. That said, if you're looking for a faster way to get a PCR test, it may cost you as these facilities may not accept insurance.

Some rapid PCR testing options include:

• COVIDCheck in San Diego, Orange County, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Denver. Results in six hours for RT-PCR tests. Cost: $349
• Complete Health Partners in Nashville, Tennessee. Results in 30 to 45 minutes. Cost: $250, not billed to insurance.
• DMCovid-19 Test offers travel PCR testing by housecall nationwide in all states except Alaska and Hawaii; it also has nine physical locations. Cost: Price varies by location and whether it's in-home or in the office.
• Elite Medical Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. Results in 24 hours. Cost: $250
• Frontage Laboratory in Exton, Pennsylvania (35 minutes from Philadelphia). Offers COVID-19 tests for travelers within six hours. Cost: $203 for an RT-PCR test.
• Medical Offices of Manhattan in New York City, New York. Same-day results. Cost: $175 for the test, which doesn't include doctor consultation.
• Saguaro Bloom in Scottsdale, Arizona. Offers 24-hour and 90-minute turnaround for RT-PCR testing. Cost: $299 for 90-minute turnaround and $149 for 24-hour turnaround.
• Test Well in Reno, Nevada, and South Lake Tahoe, California. Offers RT-PCR tests for travel with guaranteed same-day results. The cost is $149 for travel purposes (but you can file a claim with your insurance for reimbursement).
• Urgent Medical Care and MRI in Jersey City, New Jersey. Results in an hour or less only for travelers who need documentation. Cost: $300 out of pocket, not billed to insurance.
• Venistat Mobile Labs in New York, New York. Offers RT-PCR test results in less than 24 hours. Cost: $125 when using insurance, $190 without insurance.
• WeTestU in San Diego, California. Offers mobile RT-PCR testing for travel. Cost: $159 for 24-hour turnaround, $199 for 24-hour turnaround, $259 for same-day (eight hour) turnaround, $329 for one-hour turnaround.
• Worksite Labs offers PCR test results guaranteed within 24 hours near 20 U.S. airports. Cost: $90

COVID-19 testing at drugstores

If you're in a location without many COVID-19 testing sites, you may want to head to your neighborhood drugstore.

You'll notice several major chains on the list of where to get a COVID-19 test, including CVS , Walgreens , and Rite Aid . All of these often offer PCR testing at no additional cost if using insurance or if you fall under some federal programs for those without insurance.

Passport Health also has a network of clinics in over 100 locations nationwide, primarily for people who need a negative PCR test to fly or return to school.

Even better, you can make these appointments online, which may save precious time instead of waiting in a long line. Many of these locations also offer drive-up testing , where you swab yourself and don't need to leave your vehicle.

Turnaround times can vary by chain and location:

• CVS : Average turnaround time for receiving results from lab tests is one to two days for PCR tests.
• Walgreens : Turnaround time is based on when the sample arrives at the laboratory.
• Rite Aid : Turnaround time varies between 125 minutes to two to five days.

Also, several third-party companies partner with major cities like Houston and San Francisco on widespread testing. These companies, such as Color and Curative , offer results between one to three days.

City-provided COVID-19 testing

As the new variant spreads, more cities are handing out free COVID-19 rapid tests for residents.

New York City said it would distribute 500,000 free at-home COVID-19 tests as well as 1 million higher-grade KN95 masks to New Yorkers through community organizations. Residents in Washington, D.C. can pick up an at-home COVID-19 testing kit at select libraries throughout the city . And the White House has promised to distribute 500 million free rapid tests to Americans.

These tests generally won't be approved for travel but could provide peace of mind before (or during) your trip.

COVID-19 testing for children

Many destinations have dropped testing requirements for fully vaccinated travelers . However, vaccinated adults traveling with unvaccinated kids may, in some instances, have different travel requirements. But many countries (even those with strict vaccination requirements) accept proof of a negative COVID-19 test for children ineligible to be vaccinated.

If you're trying to get a COVID-19 test for a child, many nationwide drugstores serve younger patients. CVS and Walgreens serve patients 3 years of age and older, while Rite Aid offers tests at no cost to anyone 4 and older.

But now, some kids may be able to bypass COVID-19 tests if they can be vaccinated, making it far less stressful to travel. The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine has officially been approved for kids 5 to 11 by the Food and Drug Administration and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are only available to people 18 and older at this time.

At-home COVID-19 tests

The CDC expanded the testing program for international travel to the United States earlier this spring, allowing airlines to accept at-home instant tests that include remote supervision.

That's good news for U.S.-bound travelers who may not have many testing options at their location abroad . Travelers flying to the U.S. can use a self-test (sometimes referred to as a home test if it's a NAAT or antigen test with Emergency Use Authorization EUA from the FDA). The test must also have a telehealth service that provides real-time supervision. Here are several popular options:

• Abbott's BinaxNOW COVID-19 Home Test can be ordered from eMed or from Optum and is CDC-approved for travel to the U.S. There's a second Abbott rapid test you can buy at the drugstore, but it isn't proctored and can't be used for travel.
• Amazon's COVID-19 Test Collection Kit DTC has received EUA from the FDA and costs $39.99.
• Cue Health claims to offer results in just 20 minutes — and that it can detect the omicron variant . The test is authorized by the FDA for at-home use and can be used for travel purposes. The company offers two options for travelers: the Cue+ Essential membership, which starts at $49.99 (a more expensive option costs $89.99 per month) or a one-time purchase with a pack of three or 10 tests starting at $225.

Mail-in COVID-19 testing tests

There are many mail-in or in-home COVID-19 testing providers available. Some are not valid in certain states, and some are not available in all situations.

Most will not bill insurance for you, with Pixel being an exception to that general rule. Some mail-in tests are nasal swabs, while others are saliva samples. Some are only valid for adults, and others require a Zoom appointment. But, these are all the gold-standard PCR tests that are considered highly reliable.

A handful of these companies have partnered with various airlines and the state of Hawaii as approved providers, so this can be a legitimate testing option for travel to the state. If your airline has a mail-in testing partner valid for your travel destination, we recommend going through their system as it may get your sample prioritized in the lab's testing order.

Some mail-in COVID-19 testing programs include:

• Everlywell: Results of the nasal swab available within 24 to 48 hours of the lab receiving the sample. Available to people 18 and older only, and costs $82.
• Pixel by LabCorp : Results of the nasal swab are available one to two days after arriving back in the lab. Available to people 18 and older. There is no upfront cost, or $119 if you're not eligible for insurance or federal funds.
• Vault : Results of the saliva test taken via a Zoom call are available within 24 to 48 hours. The test is available to children and adults and costs $119.
• Azova : Available at Costco.com. The saliva test results, taken via a Zoom call, are available within 12 to 48 hours upon being received by the lab. This test is approved as part of Hawaii's trusted testing partner program and for travel to Bermuda and costs $118.99.
• OnSight Safe : Results of PCR saliva-based tests are available within 48 hours after being received by the lab; expedited processing is also available. Available for children and adults nationally. Physical testing locations are in New York City, Tampa and Van Nuys, California, and tests start at $127.95.

In-home COVID-19 tests

There are at-home COVID-19 tests, but did you know that some facilities offer a concierge service? You can have a testing provider come to your house, apartment or hotel and swab your nose.

In-home testing offers travelers the convenience of not having to wait in a line to get tested. (We're calling it in-home testing, but some facilities also provide testing at your office for large groups.)

Some of the most popular include Welz, which offers same-day in-home rapid testing in New York, Philadelphia and Los Angeles with a 15-minute turnaround. Even better: It's free with your health insurance or even if you're uninsured.

Generally, in-home tests and concierge services should be approved for travel purposes, as long as they meet the CDC's requirements and you get a physical or digital copy of your results. But you'll want to double-check you're taking an in-home COVID-19 test approved by your destination.

How long will test results take to arrive?

Most states or countries that require negative COVID-19 tests for entry (or entry without quarantine) use a 72-hour timeframe, from the test until either the time of your departure or arrival at the destination. Sometimes, however, the window is even shorter.

While there are exceptions, one to three days for COVID-19 test results seem standard nationwide.

You may need to research PCR testing locations that promise same-day results or provide rapid PCR tests analyzed on-site if the arrival of your test results could make or break your trip. Several facilities on the list below have previously reported delays in test results due to an increase in demand.

COVID-19 testing in airports

Many U.S. airports offer rapid COVID-19 testing to passengers or travelers on specific flights or heading to particular destinations. This could be a great option if you can drive to the airport to get a test a day or two ahead of your trip.

But we don't recommend waiting to get a test until your travel has already started, as isolating for at least two weeks at a connecting city will likely be an expensive hassle.

Some current airport testing centers available within the U.S. include:

• Anchorage International Airport : Testing at ANC is free for residents and nonresidents.
• Bradley International Airport : Open seven days per week. If the passenger's insurer does not cover the test, tests are available for $125 each. Results will most likely be available within 72 hours of testing but can take longer. Testing is only available to passengers traveling through Connecticut's Bradley Airport (BDL) on the day of their flight.
• Burlington International Airport : Testing is open to all at Vermont's BTV airport Monday through Friday, with appointments recommended and results available same-day or 36 to 48 hours. The test may have a fee .
• Dallas – Fort Worth International Airport : Those traveling on American Airlines can get a rapid test at DFW on the day of travel for $139, with results available in about 15 minutes.
• Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport : Testing is available between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. Rapid PCR tests are $179, PCR tests are $106, and rapid antigen tests are $74. Rapid antigen test results are returned in about 30 minutes, rapid PCR tests are returned within 45 minutes, and PCR tests have a 48-hour turnaround.
• Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport: Tests through the Minnesota Department of Health and Vault Health are done with saliva, return results within 48 hours and are free for Minnesota residents and $94 for others. Tests through Wandertest include Antigen, NAAT and PCR tests and provide rapid results in less than an hour and range from $99 to $199.
• New York-LaGuardia : PCR testing is free with no appointments necessary in LGA's Terminal B parking garage, with results delivered by phone within 48 hours. However, this won't be very useful for travel verification purposes since the results are verbal.
• Oakland International Airport : OAK has two testing centers, one in the airport and a second drive-up location. Only passengers heading to Hawaii are encouraged to use this, though technically, any passenger can book the drive-up location. Appointments are required, and there is a $120 lab fee for expedited processing and a $20 administrative fee for Hawaii's mandated travel documentation.
• San Francisco International Airport : San Francisco-based travelers flying on United Airlines to Hawaii and select destinations in Central and South America and the Caribbean can arrange for a mail-in PCR COVID-19 test. Travelers will receive results in 24 to 48 hours, and the cost is $119.
• XpresCheck has many airport locations across the U.S. PCR tests are available by appointment or potentially via walk-up; costs vary. Rapid molecular NAAT tests are hand-delivered within 30 to 60 minutes for $200, insurance not accepted. Standard PCR tests will be delivered 48 to 96 hours for $75, and insurance is accepted for lab fees only. Rapid PCR tests are hand-delivered within 30 to 60 minutes for $250.

Hotels offering COVID-19 tests

Many hotels and resorts all over the world now provide on-site testing. If you're staying at a hotel, check to see if they offer on-site COVID-19 testing, as it's an extremely valuable amenity that can save you time searching for a test. In some cases, that test may also be free.

Related: Forget free breakfast: The hottest hotel amenity is a nasal swab

COVID-19 testing is required to enter the US

If you're traveling back to the United States from abroad, you need to provide a negative COVID-19 test result before boarding.

However, the White House significantly shrank the time window for testing in response to the omicron variant, which means travelers will need to arrange for COVID-19 tests sooner.

All travelers – vaccinated or not – must get a viral test within one day of departure to the U.S. Even if you've been vaccinated against COVID-19, you'll need to provide a negative test before boarding. There are several exemptions to this rule. Travelers flying back from U.S. territories, travelers arriving via a land border such as Mexico or Canada, and flight crew members do not need to present a negative COVID-19 test.

People who aren't vaccinated face extra testing and hurdles

More cities are following Europe's footsteps and testing out proof of vaccination mandates for certain activities. Some spots in Los Angeles, for example, require proof of vaccination to dine indoors, and New York City was the first U.S. city to establish a vaccine mandate.

The order went into effect on Aug. 17 for everyone 5 and older. Unvaccinated New Yorkers can no longer participate in many indoor activities, including indoor dining, indoor fitness and indoor entertainment.

Since then, cities like Chicago and Washington, D.C. , have also implemented vaccine mandates.

Vaccine passports

Travelers may want to use digital health or vaccine passports to enter certain countries or be exempt from strict testing and quarantine requirements. But vaccine passports aren't expected only to hold COVID-19 vaccine records. They can also be used to verify negative COVID-19 results.

For instance, New Yorkers can use the Excelsior Pass if they have had a negative PCR test administered in New York within three days; or took a negative antigen test in New York in the last six hours.

Clear's Health Pass feature is used to verify negative tests required at some sports arenas and approve tourists for quarantine-free travel to Hawaii. CommonPass is an independent app that collects a user's COVID-19 status and verifies their identity. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) also partners with dozens of airlines worldwide on its Travel Pass app , which hosts verified test and vaccine information.

City-by-city guide on where to get a COVID-19 test

Finding a reliable place to get a PCR COVID-19 test for travel with quick results can be challenging, depending on where you're located in the U.S.

Because things change so quickly, you'll need to contact the sites directly to confirm this information is still accurate. But to give you a headstart in your research, these testing facilities may meet your travel needs. If you encounter a location that should be added (or removed) from the list, or if you're a healthcare provider conducting PCR testing, please email [email protected].

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Atlanta, Georgia

Community Organized Relief Effort

• Various locations throughout Georgia, including Atlanta.
• Hours: Varies by location.
• Cost: Free.
• Appointment required: Walk-up and drive-thru testing available, all sites are subject to early closure once the 500-test daily maximum is reached.
• Turnaround time: Typically 72 hours.

Summit Urgent Care

• Various locations throughout the Atlanta metropolitan area.
• Cost: Accepts most insurance, no copay for virtual visits.
• Appointment required: No.
• Turnaround time: Three to five days.

Peachtree Immediate Care

• Hours: Drive-thru locations open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., though some locations are closed on weekends.
• Cost: For most insurance plans, there is no copay or deductible required; a $175 self-pay option is also available.
• Appointment required: Yes.
• Turnaround time: Typically three days.

Viral Solutions

• Cost: No out-of-pocket cost with insurance.
• Turnaround time: Two days.

ARCpoint Labs of Atlanta-Northeast

• 3635 Savannah Place Drive, Suite 450-B Duluth, Georgia
• Hours: Monday to Friday 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Cost: $169 for lab-based PCR test, $249 for rapid PCR test; Self-pay option only
• Appointment Required: Yes, but same-day appointments are available.
• Turnaround Time: Less than two hours for a rapid PCR test, 48 hours is typical for lab-based PCR.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in the Bay Area, California

My Doctor Medical Group

• 450 Sutter Street Suite 840, San Francisco, California
• Cost: $240 for visit and swab collection, $125 lab fee for expedited next-day PCR results, $35 for customized additional travel documentation and certificates (in addition to lab report) if needed.
• Turnaround time: By 5 p.m. next day after collection.

McCampbell Analytical

• 1534 Willow Pass Road Pittsburg, California
• Hours: 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., seven days a week.
• Cost: Three-hour results are $699, five-hour results are $450, same-day results are $199 and next-day results are $129.
• Turnaround time: See above.
• Embarcadero site at Piers 30/32, Bryant and Embarcadero.
• Turnaround time: One to three days.

Alameda Health Systems

• Various locations throughout Alameda County.
• Cost: Covered by insurance.
• Turnaround time: Two to three days.

County of Santa Clara

• Various locations throughout Santa Clara County.
• Cost: No upfront cost.
• Turnaround time: Varies by location.

Downtown Medical Group

• 450 Sutter Street, Suite 1723 San Francisco, California
• Hours: Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Cost: $225 for next-day turnaround, $300 for same-day turnaround.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Boston, Massachusetts

Tufts Medical Center

• 276 Tremont Street, Boston, Massachusetts
• Hours: Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Cost: If insurance does not cover a test, the cost is $135.
• Turnaround time: 24 to 72 hours.

CareWell Urgent Care

• Cambridge Inman Square
• 1400 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts.
• Hours: Open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Cost: Covered by insurance, or $160 if paying out of pocket.
• Turnaround time: Varies.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Charlotte, North Carolina

BetterMed Urgent Care – Charlotte

• Various locations throughout Charlotte.
• Cost: For those with commercial health insurance, the expected out-of-pocket cost for the medical evaluation and test is your copay. PCR medical evaluation and test will cost $159 plus outside lab costs in North Carolina for self-pay.

Carolina Pharmacy

• Various locations throughout Charlotte, North Carolina and Lancaster and Rock Hill, South Carolina
• Hours: Varies by location
• Cost: Rapid antigen is $89 and rapid RT-LAMP (Molecular/NAAT) is $145. RT-PCR (Molecular/NAAT) is $190. The expected out-of-pocket cost for the medical evaluation and test is your copay for those with commercial health insurance. PCR medical evaluation and test will cost $159 plus outside lab costs in North Carolina for self-pay.

StarMed Healthcare

• Cost: Covered at 100% for most insurance carriers, or $199 for self-pay. There's a $195 out-of-pocket fee for the lab rush.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Chicago

WellNow Urgent Care

• Various locations throughout Chicago.
• Hours: Open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Some locations offer extended hours from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Cost: Most insurance accepted, or patients can self-pay $100 plus the cost of the base visit and any other necessary services.

Howard Brown Health

• Turnaround time: Three to seven days.

Innovative Care

• 1111 W. Diversey Parkway, Chicago, Illinois
• Hours: Open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Cost: Covered by insurance, or you can self-pay $250 for the examination and COVID-19 test.
• Turnaround time: Two to four days.

Prime Care Physicians

• 1355 Remington Road, Suite Q, Schaumburg, Illinois
• Hours: Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Cost: $125 self-pay, most insurance accepted.
• Turnaround time: 24 to 48 hours.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Cleveland/Akron, Ohio

• Various locations throughout Cleveland.
• Cost: Most insurance accepted, or patients can self-pay $150 plus the cost of the base visit and any other necessary services.
• Turnaround time: Results available same or next day. Check testing times to receive same-day PCR results.

The Centers, Midtown Office

• 4500 Euclid Avenue Cleveland, Ohio
• Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• Cost: No out-of-pocket costs for most patients. No insurance is required, and Medicaid and other insurance are accepted.
• Appointment required: Appointments are encouraged, with walk-ins available each day.
• Turnaround time: One to two days.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Columbus, Ohio

• Various locations throughout Columbus.
• Hours: Open seven days a week, hours vary by location.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas

Ayass BioScience Drive-thru

• 8501 Wade Blvd Bldg 7 Frisco, Texas
• Hours: Hours are shown upon registration.
• Appointment required: Strongly preferred. Walk-ins are permitted but will require filling in paperwork on site.
• Turnaround time: Same-day results if collected by 2 p.m.

Real Time Laboratories

• 4100 Fairway Ct. Suite 600 Carrollton, Texas
• Hours: Open daily; see website for details.
• Cost: $125 to $250 depending on turnaround time.
• Turnaround time: Six to 48 hours, depending on the test.
• 4100 Fairway Drive, Suite 410, Carrollton, Texas
• Hours: Open Monday to Saturday; see website for details.
• Cost: Covered by insurance, except for travel requests.
• Turnaround time: Same-day or next-day results.

L&H Scientific

• 2801 Osler Drive, Building B, Suite 123, Grand Prairie, Texas, 75051
• Hours: Monday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Cost: Prices start at $275 to $425, depending on the turnaround time.
• Appointment required: Strongly encouraged. Same-day results require testing before noon.
• Turnaround time: Same-day to one-day.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Denver, Colorado

American Family Care Urgent Care

• Various locations throughout Denver.
• Cost: Most major insurance covered.

Advanced Urgent Care

• Hours: Seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Cost: Covered by most major insurance, PCR rapid test at Broomfield clinic is $125.
• Turnaround time: Same-day for a rapid PCR test, three to seven days for other tests.

Premier Diagnostics

• Hours: See site for details.
• Cost: Covered by insurance, the cost of the RT-PCR test is $125 if not covered.
• Turnaround time: Within 48 hours.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Detroit, Michigan

CVS Minute Clinic

• 1935 Campbell, Detroit, Michigan
• Hours: Pharmacy open until 8 p.m.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Houston, Texas

• Various locations throughout Houston.
• Hours: See the website for more information.
• Cost: No out-of-pocket cost when billed to your health plan or the government.

Any Test Now

• Hours: See website for details.
• Cost: $199.

Memorial Village ER

• 14520 Memorial Dr. Houston, Texas
• Hours: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.‬ every day.
• Cost: $150 or insurance is accepted.
• Turnaround: Two to three days.

Rapid COVID Clinic

• Cost: $250.
• Appointment required: Appointments preferred, drive-ins accepted.
• Turnaround time: 36 to 48 hours.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Las Vegas, Nevada

• 546 N Eastern Ave Suite 130, Las Vegas, Nevada
• Cost: $120.

Cuur Diagnostics

• 3450 S. Maryland Pkwy Las Vegas, Nevada
• Hours: Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Cost: $125.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Los Angeles, California

COVID Clinic

• 124 locations in 15 states, with new locations and states added weekly. Also available at 13 airports including LAX, BUR and ONT.
• Hours: Generally 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., seven days a week. Location hours may vary.
• Cost: Free one- to two-day PCR available for the insured and uninsured (conditions apply). $299 for rapid one-hour result PCR test.
• Appointment required: Yes. Same-day appointments are available.
• Turnaround time: One to two days for expedited PCR test.

Reliant Urgent Care

• Various locations throughout Los Angeles.
• Cost: $195 for 24- to 36-hour turnaround, $175 for one-hour turnaround (not covered by insurance).
• Turnaround time: Depends on the level of service booked.

OnSite Safe

• 6411 Sepulveda Blvd., Van Nuys, California
• Hours: Monday to Saturday; see website for specifics.
• Costs: $164.
• Appointment Required: Yes,
• Turnaround time: Two days, next-day available with expedited processing for an extra cost.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Quality Health Care Concierge

• Drive-up address: 900 Broken Sound Parkway NW, Boca Raton Florida
• Hours: 24 hours, seven days a week.
• Cost: Partial coverage.
• Appointment required: Yes, for drive-up and in-home service.
• Turnaround time: Depends on service booked.
• 1425-A SE 17th St, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
• Hours: Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Cost: $179.
• Turnaround time: Next-day results.

Air Land Sea

• Sheltair FLL, 1100 Lee Wagener Boulevard, Suite 346, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33315
• Hours: Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Cost: With insurance, $75 for next-day results, $125 for same-day results. Without insurance, $175 for next-day results, $225 for same-day results. Four- to six-hour expedited results are $450.
• Appointment required: No, but appointments can be scheduled at covidFLL.com.
• Turnaround time: Same-day, next-day and four to six hours. Tests for same-day results must be administered before 11 a.m.

Miami-Dade County testing sites

• Various locations throughout Miami-Dade County.

American Scientific Diagnostics

• 1860 Old Okeechobee Road Suite 508, West Palm Beach, Florida
• Hours: Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Cost: $150 for next-day results, $250 for same-day results.
• Turnaround time: Depends on the test booked.
• 1515 NW 167th St Suite 410, Miami Gardens, Florida 33169
• Hours: Monday to Friday 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Cost: $129 for home or office visit, or $89 per test when you drive up to the lab. Mention the discount code LABDX10PTSGUY for an exclusive $10 discount from TPG.
• Appointment required: Yes for concierge, walk-ins accepted at drive-up locations.
• Turnaround time: Within 24 to 36 hours.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota

• 3655 Central Ave NE, Minneapolis, Minnesota
• Hours: By appointment.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in New York City and Newark, New Jersey

There are hundreds of testing sites across New York City, and you can also find pop-up mobile testing sites at different locations throughout the five boroughs. Not all of these will return COVID-19 test results in a timely enough manner for travel, however. Even the cited turnaround time may no longer be accurate.

• 34 West 36th St, New York, NY 10018
• Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m, weekends 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Cost: $299 for an expedited RT-PCR with a three- to four-hour turnaround. Insurance can be used for a standard RT-PCR with 36- to 48-hour turnaround.
• Appointment required: Appointment not required.
• Various locations in Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx.
• Cost: Accepts insurance or costs between $175 and $400.
• Turnaround time: Results in four to six hours.
• Various locations across New York City and the boroughs.
• Cost: CityMD is not collecting copayments for COVID-19 related visits.
• Turnaround time: Five to seven days.
• Location in Chelsea with home or office visits for groups of five people or more.
• Costs: $184.
• Appointment Required: No.
• Turnaround time: Two days, with next-day results available with expedited processing for an extra cost.

In-home COVID-19 testing programs include Zeel, which offers COVID-19 swab PCR testing in homes and offices administered by LPNs and RNs to the New York metro area. Available in New York City, Westchester County, Nassau County, North Jersey and Lower Fairfield County, Connecticut. Cost: $249 for the first person tested in-home plus $50 per additional person. Turnaround time: Results within 24 hours.

There are several free COVID-19 testing options available for Newark residents, with no appointment or insurance needed. Get more information here .

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Orlando, Florida

COVID Testing LLC

• Various locations throughout Orlando.
• Cost: With insurance, $35 for next-day results, $75 for same-day results. Without insurance, $115 for next-day results, $155 for same-day results.
• Turnaround time: Same or the next day. Tests for same-day results must be taken before noon.

Paramount Urgent Care

• Hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Cost: Free for self-pay and insured patients, excluding Medicaid.
• Turnaround time: Three to four days.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Vybe Urgent Care

• More than 10 locations throughout the Philadelphia area.
• Hours: Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday to Sunday: 8 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Cost: Free PCR test, $75 rapid antigen test (self-pay only) and $100 rapid RT-PCR test (self-pay only).
• Appointment required: Yes, appointments for rapid testing are required. Appointments are not required for other testing options.
• Turnaround time: Rapid test results are available in less than 24 hours. Non-rapid test turnaround time is two to five days.

American Family Care (AFC) Urgent Care

• 1444 W. Passyunk Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Cost: No charge for PCR tests with insurance.
• Appointment required: Yes, and telemedicine visit.
• 620 East Welsh Road, Horsham, Pennsylvania
• Hours: Open even days a week, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Cost: $165 for RT-PCR.
• Appointment required? Yes.
• Turnaround time: 24 hours for RT-PCR.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

• Various locations throughout Pittsburgh.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Portland, Oregon

• Various locations throughout Portland.
• Hours: Depends on location.
• Cost: Covered by insurance or lab fee of $100, as well as the cost of a virtual visit.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Sacramento, California

Anyone 18 years of age or older living in Sacramento County can ​get tested for COVID-19 for free after completing an online screening . COVID-19 testing will then be scheduled.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Salt Lake City, Utah

Intermountain Health

• Various locations throughout Salt Lake City.
• Hours: See site for individual location information.
• Cost: May vary if testing for travel versus symptoms or exposure.
• Turnaround time: 90% of tests are returned within 48 hours.
• Cost: Covered by insurance or $125 for RT-PCR test.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in San Antonio, Texas

• 4115 Medical Dr., Suite 210 San Antonio, Texas 78229
• Hours: Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST, Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST.
• Cost: $125 RT-PCR for asymptomatic patients and travelers. Covered by insurance for symptomatic patients and noninsured symptomatic patients but need providers orders.
• Turnaround time: 24 to 48 hours; Same day turnaround if received by 11 a.m. CST.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Seattle/Tacoma, Washington

Discovery Health MD

• Two locations: DoubleTree Suites Southcenter and Seattle Airport.
• Cost: $176 for next-day RT-PCR test, $349 for one-hour RT-PCR test.
• Turnaround time: Same or next day, depending on what you booked.

Seattle testing locations

• Various locations throughout Seattle.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in St. Louis, Missouri

ARCpoint Labs

• 11255 Olive Blvd, Creve Coeur, Missouri
• Hours: Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Cost: $250 for same-day results.
• Turnaround time: Same day or 48 to 60 hours, depending on what you booked.

Where to get a COVID-19 test in Washington, D.C./Baltimore/Arlington

Farragut Medical & Travel Care

• 815 Connecticut Ave NW Washington, D.C.
• Hours: Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Cost: $300.
• Turnaround time: Two days for expedited testing, or two to five days.

Preston's Pharmacy

• Various locations in Arlington and Fairfax.
• Hours: Monday to Saturday, check the website for details.
• Cost: $45 for three- to five-day PCR testing, expedited processing available for an additional cost.
• Turnaround time: Three to five days, or faster with expedited processing.

McLean Pharmacy

• 1392 Chain Bridge Road, Mclean, Virginia
• Hours: Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m to 5 p.m.
• Cost: $200 for a 48-hour turnaround and $250 for a 24-hour turnaround.

Bottom line

While it has generally been getting easier to obtain a COVID-19 PCR test for travel purposes in some locations, turnaround times can still vary especially as the omicron variant spreads in the U.S. and demand for testing rises as a result.

That means if you need COVID-19 PCR test results in advance of a tight travel deadline, the safest bet is to use a provider that can guarantee same-day or next-day service. Some providers that initially guaranteed results in 24 or 48 hours have increased their turnaround times, in some cases up to seven days. However, these rapid PCR test options will cost extra and aren't always available.

A few providers have also indicated that several insurance companies won't cover COVID-19 testing for travel purposes, so keep in mind that you may have to pay out of pocket.

Some destinations will allow you to quarantine upon arrival until your test results arrive. Finally, if you do test positive (whether or not you are asymptomatic), you will need to be prepared to quarantine in place wherever you are for at least two weeks.

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COVID-19 international travel advisories

If you plan to visit the U.S., you do not need to be tested or vaccinated for COVID-19. U.S. citizens going abroad, check with the Department of State for travel advisories.

COVID-19 testing and vaccine rules for entering the U.S.

• As of May 12, 2023, noncitizen nonimmigrant visitors to the U.S.  arriving by air  or  arriving by land or sea  no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19. 
• As of June 12, 2022,  people entering the U.S. no longer need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test . 

U.S. citizens traveling to a country outside the U.S.

Find country-specific COVID-19 travel rules from the Department of State.

See the  CDC's COVID-19 guidance for safer international travel.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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Infectious diseases.

This page has information about the risk of infectious diseases for Australians overseas.

This page only gives general advice. Always talk to your healthcare providers for advice specific to you and your situation.

Read this page to learn about:

• infectious disease risks overseas
• vaccine-preventable diseases
• insect-borne diseases
• water or food-borne diseases
• contact, droplet or airborne diseases
• blood-borne diseases
• sexually transmissible infections (STIs)
• diseases spread by animals
• consular services and infectious diseases

Infectious disease risks overseas

Infectious diseases exist everywhere. But you have a higher risk of getting an infectious disease in some destinations. This can be due to:

• water and sanitation issues
• insects that carry diseases
• low vaccination rates.

Research the risks before you go. Then you can take preventive measures to reduce them.

• Read our travel advice for your destination . See if there are any health risks or suggested vaccines listed.
• Talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Tell them where you're going and ask their advice on prevention.

Vaccine-preventable diseases

Vaccination can prevent some diseases.

Get your travel vaccinations. Particularly if there's a travel warning for a vaccine-preventable disease where you're going. Ensuring you're vaccinated can protect you and those around you.

Talk to your doctor. Ask what travel vaccines they recommend. And find out if your standard vaccinations need boosting.

Get the vaccinations you need well before you go. Some take 6-8 weeks to work or need several doses.

Visit the Vaccine Hub to explore  suggested vaccines for where you're going . Common travel vaccines include:

• chickenpox (varicella)
• hepatitis A  and  hepatitis B
• influenza (flu)
• Japanese encephalitis
• meningococcal
• tuberculosis (TB)
• yellow fever .

This list doesn't include everything. You may need to vaccinate against other diseases depending on your health and where you're going. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Learn more about  travel vaccinations .

Proof of vaccination

You may need proof of certain vaccinations when you're travelling.

Rules will vary between each country. Contact your destination's embassy or consulate in Australia  for information.

Yellow fever

Some countries need you to show an international yellow fever vaccination certificate if you:

• arrive from a  yellow fever-infected area
• transit through an infected area before arriving
• have been in an infected area within a number of days before arriving.

Your airline can stop you from boarding if you don't have one.

It's important to  get your yellow fever vaccination at an approved clinic . You need it at least 10 days before you travel. The clinic will give you your certificate.

Read  more about international yellow fever vaccination certificates .

Some countries may need you to show a COVID-19 vaccination certificate on entry or to access some services.

You can get your certificate through  myGov  or the  Express Plus Medicare mobile app . If you can't use these options

• visit a  Services Australia services centre
• contact the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) at 1800 653 809 (in Australia) or +61 2 8633 3284 (from overseas).

Learn  more about international COVID-19 vaccination certificates .

Insect-borne diseases

Insects can carry disease and spread it between people. They can also spread disease between animals and people.

You're more likely to get an insect-borne disease in tropical climates. This includes parts of

• Central America
• the Pacific.

You're also at risk in parts of Europe and the United States. Risks may differ depending on what you plan to do.

Some common insect-borne diseases are:

• chikungunya
• Lyme disease
• yellow fever
• Zika virus .

If you're pregnant or planning to get pregnant, your unborn child may face more risks from Zika virus. As a precaution, the Department of Health advises you to consider delaying travel to countries with Zika.

Reducing your risk of insect-borne diseases

You can get vaccinated against some insect-borne illnesses. For others, such as malaria, there's oral medicine you can take. Discuss options with your doctor or pharmacist.

Take steps to avoid insect bites.

• Cover exposed skin with light-coloured long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
• Use insect repellents with DEET or picaridin. If you use both sunscreen and insect repellent, apply the sunscreen first and then the repellent.
• Treat your clothing and gear with insecticides containing permethrin.
• Sleep in screened or air-conditioned rooms. Use bed nets if you can't keep mosquitoes from coming inside the room.

After walking through high grass or brush in tick-prone areas:

• brush off your clothes before getting in a car or going inside
• check yourself and others for ticks 
• tumble dry your clothes hot for 20 minutes to kill ticks that may have hitched a ride.

Water- or food-borne diseases

Water- or food-borne diseases are common in many countries. You can catch them from:

• drinking or using tainted water
• drinking any drink with ice cubes made with tap water
• eating food washed with tap water
• brushing your teeth or washing your face with tap water
• eating tainted food, including meals prepared by people following poor hygiene practices
• taking part in activities in tainted water, such as swimming or water sports.

Some water- and food-borne diseases include:

• infections causing  gastroenteritis  (vomiting and  diarrhoea )
• campylobacter
• hepatitis A
• leptospirosis
• polio (poliomyelitis)
• salmonella  (including  typhoid and paratyphoid )
• schistosomiasis

Cholera  is less common, but it's very contagious and deadly.

Reduce your risk from water- or food-borne diseases

There are vaccines for some water and food-borne infectious diseases, including hepatitis A, typhoid and cholera.

You can do a lot to reduce your risk of infection where water and food-borne diseases are common.

• Wash your hands often and use hand sanitiser before you eat.
• Drink bottled water from a sealed bottle.
• Use water-sterilising tablets or filtration bottles to make tap water safe.
• Wash fresh produce thoroughly using bottled or sterilised water.

Try to avoid:

• drinking tap water or using it to clean your teeth
• drinks with ice cubes. Some restaurants may use water straight from the tap
• uncooked and undercooked food or food that has been left sitting for a while
• fresh salads and raw vegetables
• contact with water or soil that may be contaminated with sewerage
• in some places, swimming or wading in any fresh water.

For more information, see the Better Health Channel's advice on  food safety while travelling .

Contact, droplet and airborne diseases

Some diseases can spread:

• through close contact with a person who is coughing, sneezing, or unwell
• through something an infected person touched after coughing, sneezing or blowing their nose.

These are called diseases spread by contact, droplets or through the air.

These include:

• chickenpox  (varicella)
• coughs and colds
• influenza  (flu)
• Middle East respiratory syndrome  (MERS)
• Severe acute respiratory syndrome  (SARS)

Reducing your risk of contact, droplet and airborne diseases

Protect yourself from contact, droplet and airborne diseases.

• Stay up to date with your vaccinations for measles, rubella, diphtheria, pertussis, flu, COVID-19, and other vaccines recommended by your doctor.
• Wash your hands often or use hand sanitiser if soap and water aren't available.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick or showing early symptoms.
• Avoid close contact with wild or domestic animals.

Blood-borne diseases

Some infectious diseases can be spread by blood. This can be:

• when an infected person's blood comes into direct contact with another person's blood, mouth or eyes
• when blood is on an object such as a needle or razor blade
• through bodily fluids (see also  sexually transmissible infections )

Common blood-borne diseases overseas are:

• hepatitis B
• hepatitis C

Reduce your risk of blood-borne diseases

You can get vaccinated against some blood-borne diseases.

You can also reduce your risk of infection by being careful and making smart choices.

• Avoid contact with any objects that could be tainted with blood or body fluids.
• Never share needles, syringes, or other injecting tools.
• Choose tattoo, piercing and medical services that carefully sterilise their tools and surfaces. If you're not sure, ask for proof before they start.
• Practise safer sex.
• Cover wounds and cuts with a waterproof dressing.
• Don't share toothbrushes, razors and other personal items that may be tainted with blood.
• Use gloves and other relevant protection when giving first aid.

These diseases may not have symptoms in the early stages. If you think you've been exposed, seek medical advice early. There may be preventive treatment.

Sexually transmissible infections (STIs)

STIs are infections or diseases passed on during unprotected sex with an infected partner, including vaginal, anal and oral sex. Some STIs can spread through skin-to-skin contact with a person's infected genitals or mouth.

STIs include:

• genital herpes
• gonorrhoea 
• human papillomavirus (HPV)

Other diseases can spread through sexual contact but are not called an STI. For example, water-borne diseases shigellosis and hepatitis A can also spread through sexual activity, including oral and anal sex.

Reducing your risk of STIs

Vaccines can prevent some STIs. But you must also take preventive measures to reduce your risk of infection.

Reduce your risk of infection by taking and using your own condoms from a brand you trust.

STIs may not have symptoms. If you think you've been exposed, seek medical advice.

If you're a victim of  assault , including  sexual assault , get  medical care  immediately to reduce the risk of infection.

For more information, see the Department of Health's information on  STIs  and  HIV / AIDS .

Diseases spread by animals

Some animals can spread disease through close contact, scratches or bites. These diseases include:

• influenza A subtypes , including avian and swine influenza
• Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)

Reduce your risk of infection.

• Get vaccinated for rabies and influenza before you go, if recommended.
• Avoid contact with sick animals.
• Wash your hands well after contact with animals.
• Don't eat raw or undercooked meat or animal products.

If you have a pre-existing illness, you may need to avoid all contact with some animals. Seek medical advice.

If you're bitten, scratched or licked on an open wound by an animal:

• use first aid
• wash the wound out well with soap and water for at least 10 minutes
• use antiseptic solution
• get urgent medical advice about preventing rabies, tetanus, and bacterial infection.

Consular services and infectious diseases

You're responsible for protecting yourself against infectious diseases.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas .

What we can do

• We can update our travel advice if we learn of a disease outbreak.
• We can give you a list of local English-speaking doctors and health services.
• We can help you get in contact with family and friends in Australia.
• We can provide emergency support if we declare a disease outbreak a crisis.

What we can't do

• We can't tell you every infectious disease in your destination.
• We can't give you medical advice.
• We can't tell you all the vaccines you may need.
• We can't tell you what to do or take to protect your health in your destination.
• We can't guarantee your health in any destination.
• We can't pay your medical costs if you get sick overseas.
• Read about  travelling with medication and medical equipment .
• See our advice on  travelling while pregnant .
• Learn about  medical tourism .
• See our  health advice for everyone .
• Read advice about  travelling with children .
• See our advice on  taking care of your mental health .
• See our advice for  travellers with a disability .
• Read about health risks in all your destinations .
• Understand how and when  consular services  can help Australians overseas.
• Learn about  infectious diseases  and  travel vaccinations  (Department of Health).
• See a range of advice on  international travel and health  (World Health Organization).
• Read advice on  food safety while travelling  (Victorian Department of Health and Human Services).
• Learn about  immunising your child  (Department of Health).
• See information about  insect-borne diseases  (World Health Organisation).

Related content

Read our general advice for Australians planning to travel overseas with medications or medical equipment.

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Moscow Oblast Regional Investment and Business Guide Paperback

• Publisher Int'l Business Publications, USA
• ISBN-10 073970849X
• ISBN-13 978-0739708491
• See all details

Product details

• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 073970849X
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0739708491

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