In September we were graced with the awesome news that the US would be opening their borders in early November. The travel industry and travellers alike have been anticipating a confirmed date since, and on Friday the 15th of October it was finally announced that the US open to vaccinated travellers on the 8th of November.

After a long 19-month shut down in the US meaning no one could enter for non-essential means, White House Assistant Press Secretary Kevin Munoz announced the excellent news over Twitter on the 15th after hours of the travel industry speculating what date the US may open to vaccinated travellers.

“The US’ new travel policy that requires vaccination for foreign national travelers to the United States will begin on Nov 8,” he said.

“This announcement and date applies to both international air travel and land travel. This policy is guided by public health, stringent, and consistent.”

All vaccinated travellers visiting the US after the 8th of November will need proof of a negative test taken within 72 hours before travel, they will also be required to share some details for contact tracking. At present, it is unknown what the requirements will be for those under 18 who aren’t vaccinated, but it is expected that unvaccinated children may follow the same rules as vaccinated adults.

Following the announcement in September, this is fantastic news for those planning to travel to the US in November since they can now go ahead with beginning to book their holidays.

Though the FCDO has advised travellers to keep an eye out to find out more details on how the US plan to verify vaccinations before booking (you can keep track of any updates on the Foreign Travel Advice page), this is still an exciting time, especially for those who have been waiting over 18 months to see family or friends in the US.

Some in the travel industry were worried about this news being delayed because of the number of those involved in the decision, and we’re all relieved to see that is not the case. Especially for airlines who saw a lot of traffic to and from the US pre-covid, this is a huge moment that could be a big boost to the industry with so many travellers excited to go to the US.

So, if you’re excited for when the US open to vaccinated travellers on the 8th of November, don’t forget to contact a travel business registered with PTS and offering complete financial protection through trust. Or, if you’d like assistance choosing one of the awesome PTS members to book with, you can contact PTS directly at 0207 190 9988.

And if you’d like to learn more about your consumer protection with PTS or how the Package Travel Regulations protect your holiday booking, check out our pages.

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