The United States has extended temporary Ebola-related entry restrictions affecting certain travellers who have recently been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Uganda or South Sudan.
The restrictions, introduced as part of the U.S. response to the ongoing Ebola outbreak, have been extended through 10 November 2026. They apply primarily to foreign nationals who have been in any of the three affected countries within the previous 21 days, subject to limited exceptions.
Who Is Affected?
The restrictions are based on recent travel history, rather than simply nationality.
Foreign nationals who have been in the DRC, Uganda or South Sudan during the previous 21 days may be restricted from entering the United States.
Travellers who were in any of these countries more than 21 days before travelling to the U.S. are not subject to the same Ebola-related entry restriction.
What Happens to Travellers Who Are Allowed to Enter?
Certain travellers permitted to enter the United States may have their journey redirected to designated U.S. airports for public-health screening.
Screening can include questions about recent travel and health, temperature checks and monitoring arrangements following arrival.
The U.S. has also introduced additional measures for international air passengers. Beginning 3 November 2026, all passengers travelling to the United States by air will be required to provide a digital or paper declaration confirming that they have not been in the DRC during the previous 21 days.
Why Has the US Introduced These Measures?
The restrictions are linked to the ongoing Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak, which began in the DRC and has subsequently been detected in Uganda and Kenya, with Nigeria also reporting a case in October.
U.S. authorities say the measures are intended to reduce the risk of Ebola being imported into the United States while the outbreak remains under investigation.
What Does This Mean for Nigerian Travellers?
For Nigerians planning a trip to the United States, the key point is that these measures do not constitute a general Ebola-related visa ban on Nigerian passport holders.
However, travellers who have recently visited the DRC, Uganda or South Sudan should pay close attention to the applicable entry restrictions and health-screening requirements before travelling.
If you have travelled through any of the affected countries recently, check your travel history carefully and confirm the latest U.S. requirements before your journey.
Planning a Trip to the USA?
U.S. travel requirements can change quickly, and staying updated is essential when preparing for your trip.
Whether you’re travelling for business, tourism, family visits or other permitted purposes, RoutePal can assist with understanding the applicable visa process and preparing your application.
Planning your U.S. trip? Talk to RoutePal before you make your travel plans.
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