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2020 has been a tough year travel wise, and while there are still tons of restrictions, there are some new opportunities out there! Countries are starting to open up to foreigners, and the world is very slowly going back to normal for travel. Here are all of the places that Americans can travel to right now.

North America

While North America is just a few countries, and does include the US, it's good to know what's going on with our neighboring countries! Many people think that Canada is right over the border, and can drive over without problem, but that is sadly still untrue. However, while Canada may be shut, our southern neighbors have opened their doors.

Mexico

Mexico was one of the first countries to open back up to the US and many other areas around the world. The land borders remain closed, but you can still reach there by air.

Requirements: Temperatures and a health questionnaire are given at the airport. Stay is limited to 180 days, and you must show proof of a ticket exiting the country.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is open for US citizens! Now this may seem obvious because they are part of the US, but keep in mind that even though Hawaii is part of the US, they are still restricted. 

Requirements: Visitors must do COVID-19 tests  72 hours in advance, and bring proof upon arrival. It is mandatory for health questionnaire to be completed electronically as well.

Check out our Traveling in Puerto Rico During Covid Article to learn about what it's like to travel to Puerto Rico during COVID-19.

The Caribbean

The Caribbean is very close to the US, and relies heavily on tourism, which mostly comes from Americans. Due to this, certain islands are starting to open their doors. Here are the islands that are now open for the US.

Antigua & Barbuda

As of June 4th, Antigua & Barbuda have opened up for tourism. American Airlines have been the first to start flying again, with direct flights from Miami.

Requirements: Every incoming traveler  is subject to test for COVID-19. The test will take 15 minutes to complete, and results will be released within 48 hours, according to Antigua’s travel advisory website, travelers will have to pay for the test, which costs $100 per person, or they can do one beforehand to speed up the process.

Curfew is from 11 pm to 5 am, and one can only travel to Barbuda from Antigua after 14 days inside of Antigua.

Aruba

As of June 10th, Aruba is available for inbound travel, and as of July 10th, US citizens are permitted to travel here. Here is all you need to know:

Requirements: Before traveling to Aruba, there is a 5 component process that includes:

1. Embarkation Card with personal information

2. Personal Health Assessment

3. Negative Molecular COVID-19 test

4. Requisite Insurance Coverage

5. Consent to Aruba Government Mandates

In addition the following states are subject to additional screening:

Bahamas

The Bahamas is officially open, but may not exactly be the ideal choice for the average American looking to get away for a few days.

Requirements: All arriving passengers must quarantine for 14 days in an approved residence. This can include an Airbnb or a hotel. In addition to the mandatory quarantine period, travelers must also apply for a Bahamas health visa. Travelers must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test result from an accredited lab that was taken within 10 days.

Bermuda

Another place that Americans can travel to is the tiny isolated island of Bermuda!

Requirements: One must complete the Bermuda travel authorization online. There is a  $75 required, which includes the cost of the PCR COVID-19 testing in Bermuda. A visitor must also take a certified PCR COVID-19 test, ideally within 72 hours of departure, but no more than seven days, and obtain a negative result.

While waiting for test results (usually around 24 hours) visitors must remain in quarantine.

Dominican Republic

Although there is still a travel advisory not to visit the Dominican Republic, it is still a place that Americans can travel to.

Requirements:  From July 30th, it is required that all passengers arriving in the Dominican Republic present a COVID-19 test that has been completed within five days.  Passengers who do not meet this requirement or show symptoms on arrival may be tested at the airport, and It will be required to quarantine as instructed by authorities.

There is a curfew in Santo Domingo, and some of the other larger cities and provinces. The curfew is from Monday through Friday from 7 pm to 5 am and on Saturdays and Sundays from 5 pm to 5 am.  In some provinces the curfew is from 8 pm to 5 am every day.

Haiti

Traveling to Haiti isn't particularly recommended, and not only due to COVID, but actually more so due to the crime rate. There have been several websites declaring that despite the travel warning, Haiti is in fact still open, but should be avoided.

here is very little information out there stating what the exact requirements are, but if you have a need to travel here, we suggest reaching out by calling the Haitian embassy for more info.

Jamaica

The CDC advises against travel to Jamaica due to the health situation, and because health facilities are limited. However, if you are planning a trip to Jamaica, it is still possible.

Requirements:  All residents of the US, Brazil, Dominican Republic or Mexico who are 12 years of age or over, are required to obtain and upload a COVID-19 PCR test result for travel authorization approval. This test must be taken within 10 days of travel, and must be uploaded for approval 2-5 days before travel.

Grenada

As of August 1st, Grenada has started following its Caribbean neighbors, and has opened as one of the places that Americans can travel to. Being in a high risk category, it isn't easy, but at least it's possible.

Requirements: Everyone needs to complete, sign and submit a Health Declaration Form, as well as downloading and registering on Grenada’s Contact Tracing App, which you can find on the official website.

All non-nationals must have travel insurance that covers corona virus-related incidents (like treatment and isolation), or must declare that they will bear those costs.

Visitors will need a negative PCR test result, dated at most 7 days prior to entry, and rapid testing upon arrival will still take place. Tourists may have to stay 2-4 days at a government-approved accommodation while awaiting PCR results, and then will still have a 14 day quarantine, that must be at a government approved facility.

St. Barths

As of June 22nd, St. Barths is now open for citizens from the EU and from the United States.

Requirements: All travelers 11 and up will need to present a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival, that has been done within 72 hours. Additionally, if you are staying more than 7 days, you will need to get retested at the local facility on that 7th day. The testing lab is available to drive up Monday-Friday from 2-3 PM and Saturday 9-10 AM.

St. Lucia

St. Lucia has finally opened for tourists, but has a different system than most of the other Caribbean islands. There are a list of countries who are in the "travel bubble" which give them more freedom than those that are outside of the travel bubble.

The travel bubble includes some of the neighboring islands in the Caribbean, making the US outside of the travel bubble. Here's what that means,

Requirements: All arriving passengers must have a negative result from a PCR test done no more than 7 days prior to arrival in Saint Lucia. Screening occurs for everyone at the airport, including temperature checks. After leaving the airport, all travelers outside of the travel bubble will have to quarantine for 14 days.

St. Maarten

St. Maarten is a funny island, because it actually belongs to two countries- one that will allow travel, and one that won't. What this means? You can fly into St. Maarten, but can only explore the Dutch half.

Requirements: All visitors must obtain a negative COVID-19 test prior to arrival, and  upload them as part of a form. This needs to be submitted no later than 12 hours prior to departure, and those who do not do this, must be tested at the airport, and then quarantine for 14 days.

St. Vincent & the Grenadines

Although there isn't much information out there about everything going on in this small island country, we do know that as of July 1st the doors have been officially open, and it is now a place that Americans can travel to.

Requirements: All visitors must fill out the “VINCY” corona virus questionnaire form (either online or on flight prior to arrival). Everyone must undergo a COVID-19 PCR test upon arrival, and quarantine for 24 hours in hotel or rental, until the results are available and show negative.

Turks & Caicos

The 40 islands of Turks and Caicos are now open, and right now this group of islands seem to be more seemingly easy to enter than some of the others.

Requirements: All travelers to the Turks and Caicos must obtain travel pre-authorization via the TCI Assured Portal. A nightly curfew has been reimposed until the 15th of September 2020, from 8 PM to 5 AM, and all businesses (including restaurants) must close at 7 PM daily.

US Virgin Islands

Being that the US Virgin islands are in fact part of the US, just like Puerto Rico, they have had on and off restrictions throughout the summer due to spikes in cases. Now mainland Americans can travel here again.

Requirements: Due to the high cases throughout the states, for those who come from a state with case levels of 10% or higher. it is mandatory for a COVID-19 antigen test to be taken. They must do so within 5 days of travel, and COVID-19 molecular tests also must be taken for anyone over the age of 15. Extra screening at the airport may happen as well.

Central America

Central America has been hit hard, and they are not very keen on opening up quite like the Caribbean has been. However, there are a couple of countries that are starting to open.

Costa Rica

Now, Costa Rica is a very particular situation, because not all Americans are treated equal in this case. Due to the high numbers in the US, the people that can travel here are residents from one of the following 12 states: Colorado, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.

Requirements: All visitors must fill out the electronic epidemiological HEALTH PASS form. COVID-19 tests must be presented upon arrival, and done within 72 hours. In addition, a driver's license also must be brought for proof of residency.

Finally, Traveler’s Medical Insurance must be obtained, This can be international or purchased in Costa Rica through the National Insurance Institute.

Honduras

As of August 10th, domestic flights became available throughout Honduras, and just one week later the international ones did, making Honduras one of the places that Americans can travel.

Requirements: COVID-19 tests must be done within 72 hours of flying, and the National Curfew has been extended until Sunday, September 13th. Additionally, one can only shop daily from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., which is according to the last digit of an individual’s national identity card or passport number for non-Honduran citizens.

South America

Just like Central America, South America is definitely more hesitant to open up. Brazil was the first to open up and just recently Ecuador has joined them.

Brazil

Brazil is not only just open to all Americans, but they have opened their doors to the entire world. That being said, they are a very high-risk country, so you should be very careful traveling there.

Requirements: Before boarding a flight, you must show proof to the airline of health insurance purchased for the entirety of the trip. U.S. citizens must obtain an official note from the embassy or consulate and provide evidence of a scheduled return flight home.

Ecuador

Ecuador has finally resumed commercial flights as of June 1st, and US citizens are able to travel there just of very recently.

Requirements: Travelers must present a negative PCR test result for COVID-19 that has been taken no more than 10 days prior to departure. All passengers must sign a declaration form, providing their itinerary and local contact details.  Anyone who does not undergo the PCR test must complete self-isolation in temporary accommodation for a period of 10 days.

Europe

The one we've all been waiting for! Europe has started opening for tourism in the beginning of the summer, but the US never fell into that category. Finally there are a few countries that are now welcoming Americans again. None of the countries are those of the EU, but there are still plenty to be explored on that continent!

Albania

Albania is open, and shows no restrictions! Just be safe and carry a mask with you.

Belarus

Belarus is another country that does not make anyone quarantine or get tested. However, don't forget that a visa is required for this country while traveling at any time (not just during COVID.)

Croatia

Croatia is opening up to US citizens, but has a few guidelines in place unlike some of its neighboring countries.

Requirements: Tourists must have proof of paid accommodation, and must present a negative result for a Covid-19 PCR test taken within the previous 48 hours. If they have an older test result, the person can enter, but must self-quarantine until they can show another negative test at their own expense. Those without negative results must self-quarantine for 14 days.

Macedonia

Macedonia (also known currently as North Macedonia) currently has no restrictions for entry from US citizens, making it an one of the easier places that Americans can travel to.

Malta

Malta actually has not given the green light for Americans, but they are currently allowing entry for anyone who has quarantined for 14 days elsewhere. So if you plan on traveling somewhere else that is a "green country", you can stay for two weeks there and then go to Malta.

Montenegro

Unlike its neighbors, Montenegro is playing it a little more safe.

Requirements: One must present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of arrival into the country. People also may be subject to additional screening at the airport.

Serbia

There are no restrictions or requirements for entering Serbia at this time, making it one of the easiest places that Americans can travel to.

Turkey

Turkey is now open for tourists, but keep in mind that a visa is still required!

Requirements:  All passengers will undergo a medical examination, and those showing symptoms will have tests performed. Passengers with a positive test result will take medical treatment.

Asia

Asia was the start of it all when it came to Corona Virus, so it's no wonder that this area of the world is still off limits. Maybe next year!

Middle East

The Middle East is also starting to open, and has just a few options for this area of the world, when it comes to travel. Here are a few options if you want to make it over to the Middle East.

Armenia

Although there are limited flights to Armenia, the country is not going under any severe restrictions, other than the obvious of wearing a face mask in public.

Requirements: Travelers who are permitted to enter Armenia are asked to complete health questionnaires. They must also self-quarantine or self-monitor for 14 days, or submit to a PCR test. Additionally, individuals who choose to take a PCR test and receive a negative result may be exempted from self-quarantine requirements.

Bangladesh

Being that Bangladesh's neighbor India isn't doing so well at the moment, this isn't the best spot to visit. However,  the country is in fact open, but still is hard to visit if you don't have a lot of vacation days. So we wouldn't suggest this as one of the places that Americans can travel to with security.

Requirements: All visitors arriving in Bangladesh must quarantine for 14 days, regardless of whether they test positive for COVID-19 or not. If individuals arrive with symptoms of COVID-19, they will be institutionally quarantined, and if they show no signs, they will have to self-quarantine.

The Government of Bangladesh has provided a list of recommended COVID-19 testing facilities for international passengers. Those wishing to get tested will have to pay for their own COVID-19 test. 

Egypt

Egypt has now opened, but still has certain places closed such as public beaches and parks. Restaurants and cafes are required to close by midnight, and other shops, including grocery stores, are required to close by 10:00 pm.

Requirements: Starting September 1st, all arriving international travelers will need to present a negative PCR test certificate for COVID-19, and take the test within 72 hours before arrival. Travelers must present paper copies of the test results, as they will not accept digital copies.

Maldives

As of July 15th, travel to these gorgeous islands has now opened back up to tourists.  COVID-19 tests are not necessary, but they have set many guidelines to ensure that everyone is safe. On their official website they outline everything in detail for what to do before you fly, during your stay, and upon exiting the country. 

Requirements: A confirmed booking needs to be made in a tourist establishment registered with the Ministry of Tourism. One must fill the online Health Declaration Form and submit it within 24 hours prior to departure. This form is accessible on https://www.ivisa.com/maldiveshealth-declaration-form.

It is prohibited to travel between islands, as well as to the capital of Male. Tourists with transit requirements may stay in designated facilities which have been given special permits by the Ministry of Tourism and the Health Protection Agency. The resort/hotel representative will help in making special arrangements for this.

United Arab Emirates

The UAE is officially open to the public, and stringent entry restrictions remain in place upon arrival at all airports to ensure the health and well-being of the people there.

Requirements: All travelers to the UAE must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result within 96 hours prior to their departure. Children under the age of 12, and those with severe and moderate disabilities, may be exempt from the test requirement.

Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road, but must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or negative laser blood test with results received within 48 hours. Additionally, those who enter Abu Dhabi, and stay for more than six consecutive days or more, are required to take an additional COVID-19 PCR test on the sixth day.

Africa

Africa has many countries, and most of which are still closed off to the world. However, there are a couple of places Americans can travel to.

Rwanda

Rwanda is not one of the countries that is not necessarily recommended to go to right now, but there is still an option to go there if you have to.

Requirements: Travelers must present a negative PCR COVID-19 certificate for a test taken no more than 120 hours before their initial flight. The U.S. Embassy recommends that travelers carry a printed copy of their negative test results during all legs of their flights to Rwanda. 

Tanzania

Entering Tanzania has requirements for Corona Virus, as well as for normal circumstances. Here's what you need to know.

Requirements: U.S. citizens must obtain a tourist visa, which they can get upon arrival at the airport in Tanzania. The cost is $100 USD, and you should prepare to pay in cash in case connectivity issues make electronic transactions impossible.

All travelers whose countries require COVID-19 testing, will be required to present a certificate on arrival. 

Zambia

Another one of the places that Americans can travel, and that has finally allowed international travel is Zambia! Although there are extra measures, this is all you need to enter.

Requirements: All travelers coming into the country are required to provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test result. The test must be conducted within the previous 14 days prior of arrival to Zambia. Travelers who do not meet this requirement will not be allowed into the country.

In addition, the government of Zambia is enforcing a mandatory 14-day quarantine, testing, and regular monitoring at their accommodation.

Those arriving are no longer required to quarantine at a government-designated facility, but must communicate to Ministry of Health officials where they intend to reside. They also must provide accurate contact information for regular follow-ups.

South Pacific

Finally, we have the South Pacific. Unfortunately when it comes to the South Pacific area of the globe, there isn't much opportunity, nor places that Americans can travel. However, French Polynesia has been the first to open up to US citizens. Here's what you need to know.

French Polynesia

The country has confirmed conditions of entry and stay in the country. This is applicable to all travelers from 6 years old (resident and non-resident) arriving by air. Since July 15^th, 2020, quarantine measures are lifted, and French Polynesia's borders re-open to international tourism from all countries.

Requirements: All visitors must have proof of a negative RT-PCR test carried out within three days prior to their flight. Each person must present the receipt of the health registration on the Etis.pf platform (Electronic Travel Information System). In addition, one must self-test 4 days after arrival.

The world is changing every day, and this information has been taken from various government sources. Make sure you double check all of the requirements before booking any flights, and confirm your details with the embassy, as well as with the airlines.

Although 2020 has been the most restricting year for most of us, it is slowly changing for the better! Always remember to carry plenty of masks and hand sanitizer, and be respectful of the guidelines of the country that you are visiting. Stay safe, and happy traveling!

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