Our Blogs

January 18, 2021

COVID-19 Travel Ban on Europe, U.K., and Brazil to be lifted by President Trump

The imposed travel bans on non-citizens traveling from Europe, the United Kingdom, and Brazil have been lifted by President Donald Trump. What was originally set as a response to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic is set to end under a new declaration.

Under this new order, to enter the United States, all international visitors must present a negative Coronavirus test or show proof of recovery. This new order will go into effect on 26 January 2021.

What Changed and Why? Context Behind the Travel Policy Reversal

President Trump’s decision to lift the travel ban was made in the final days of his administration, signaling a policy shift as President-elect Joe Biden prepared to take office. The original travel restrictions were enacted in early 2020 to curb the spread of COVID-19 variants from hard-hit regions such as:

• The Schengen Area (Germany, France, Italy, etc.)
• The United Kingdom
• Brazil

Despite this reversal, the Biden administration indicated plans to reinstate or revise these travel restrictions in response to emerging variants and evolving pandemic data.

As of 2025, these rules may have changed significantly. Always consult the CDC’s Travel Guidelines or U.S. State Department travel updates for the most accurate information.

Entry Requirements: COVID-19 Test or Recovery Proof

Under the updated guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

• Travelers must provide a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or rapid antigen) within 3 calendar days of departure.
• Alternatively, travelers can submit proof of recovery, including:
  • A positive COVID-19 test result within the past 90 days
  • A letter from a licensed healthcare provider or public health official clearing the person for travel

Note: Airlines are responsible for verifying these documents before passengers can board.

Visual Summary: U.S. Entry Checklist (Jan 2021 Policy)

• Negative COVID-19 test (PCR/antigen)
• OR Proof of recovery
• Valid passport and visa (if required)
• Comply with airline-specific health protocols.

Related Travel and Immigration Implications

1. Impact on Foreign Nationals and Visa Holders

While the travel bans were lifted, travelers must still meet visa eligibility criteria. This includes:

• B1/B2 Visa (Tourist/Business)
• F1 Visa (Student)
• H1B Visa (Employment)

Visa appointment availability remains limited due to consulate backlogs. For help with your visa options, visit our pages on:

• Employment-Based Immigration
• Family-Based Immigration
• Marriage Green Cards

2. Airline & Airport Protocols: What Travelers Must Know

Many airlines now use digital health apps like:

• IATA Travel Pass
• VeriFLY
• CommonPass

These tools simplify documentation verification and reduce check-in times.

Pro Tip: Check with your airline about accepted apps and upload your test result in advance.

Global Reactions and Diplomatic Considerations

Health officials from the European Union, Brazil, and the United Kingdom voiced concerns over sudden changes to U.S. entry policies. This highlights the importance of international alignment in travel guidelines during a pandemic.

The Biden administration later restored and revised some of these bans, prioritizing variant containment and global cooperation.

Legal Guidance for Immigration & Travel Support

Navigating these travel policies requires more than just compliance, it requires legal clarity.

At Sidman Law Group, we help individuals, families, and professionals understand how immigration law intersects with global health mandates and evolving entry protocols.

Schedule a personalized consultation to get the legal guidance you need.