Travelling to the United States soon? A new public health requirement will add another step to the pre-boarding process for international air passengers from November 3, 2026.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced that all passengers boarding international flights to the United States must complete a health-related travel declaration confirming that they have not been present in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) during the 21 days before departure.
The measure is intended to reduce the risk of Ebola entering the United States amid an ongoing outbreak.
Who Needs to Complete the Declaration?
The requirement applies to passengers travelling to the United States from any foreign country, regardless of their nationality or departure airport.
This includes Nigerian travellers flying from Lagos or Abuja, as well as passengers travelling from other international destinations.
Travellers connecting through a US airport on their way to another country are also covered by the requirement.
What Will Travellers Need to Declare?
Passengers must sign a paper or electronic statement confirming that they have not been physically present in the DRC during the 21 days before their flight.
Importantly, transiting through an airport in the DRC counts as being present in the country, even if the passenger does not leave the airport or aircraft. Simply flying over the country without landing does not count.
Passengers who do not submit the required declaration will not be allowed to board their flight to the United States. Providing false or misleading information may also carry legal consequences.
Does This Apply to Nigerian Passport Holders?
Yes. The declaration applies to Nigerian travellers just as it does to other international passengers.
However, the new measure does not mean Nigerian passport holders are automatically banned from travelling to the United States.
Travellers who have not been in the DRC during the relevant 21-day period must still meet the normal US entry requirements, including holding the appropriate visa or other required travel authorisation.
The declaration is an additional public health measure, not a replacement for existing immigration procedures.
What About Travellers Who Recently Visited the DRC?
The US has separate restrictions for people who have recently been in Ebola-affected countries.
Under the CDC’s current guidance, travellers who have been in the DRC within the preceding 21 days will not be permitted to board flights to the United States. Additional restrictions apply to certain non-US citizens who have recently been in Uganda or South Sudan.
These restrictions are separate from the declaration that all international air passengers must complete.
When Does the New Rule Begin?
The declaration requirement takes effect at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on November 3, 2026. It applies to international flights departing for the United States at or after that time.
Airlines may incorporate the declaration into online check-in or provide instructions for completing it digitally or on paper. Travellers should check directly with their airline before departure for the applicable procedure.
Planning a Trip to the USA?
Travel requirements can change, and missing a new pre-boarding requirement could disrupt your journey.
Before travelling, confirm your visa status, check your airline’s latest instructions and ensure that all required declarations are completed accurately.
RoutePal provides guidance on visa application requirements and travel documentation to help you prepare for your journey.
Planning a trip to the United States? Contact RoutePal for assistance with your visa application preparation.
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