COVID-19 Resource Center

Learn more about U.S. consulate closures due to COVID-19.

On 26 Nov. 2021, the WHO named the new B.1.1.529 variant Omicron. In response to this new variant, a number of countries have reintroduced travel restrictions and entry requirements.

A new travel restriction bars most foreign nationals from entry into the U.S. if they have been physically present in South Africa or seven other southern African countries in the past 14 days.

On 15 August 2022, the government of Japan introduced new timeline requirements for the completion of a certificate of inspections.

On 12 August 2022, the authorities of Hong Kong introduced new quarantine measures for travelers. Travelers entering Hong Kong should ensure that they hold the appropriate immigration authorization.

Travelers entering the Malaysia will no longer be required to provide proof of a COVID-19 traveler’s card, a pre-departure COVID-19 test or an on-arrival test and more.

In July 2022, the European Commission approved three additional COVID-19 vaccination certificates as alternatives to the EU COVID-19 vaccination certificate.

France removed requirements to present a negative COVID-19 test result, proof of recovery from COVID-19, or proof of vaccination against COVID-19 when entering the country.

The authorities of Hong Kong will introduce an updated electronic health declaration system that must be completed by all travelers prior to entering the jurisdiction.

On 21 July 2022, South Korea reduced post-arrival COVID-19 testing time and quarantine requirements for all travelers entering the country.

The government of China reduced COVID-19 quarantine periods for all international travelers and close contacts on 29 June 2022.

The government of Malta removed quarantine requirements for travelers who can provide proof of vaccination, proof of recovery or proof of a negative COVID-19 test result.

The government of New Zealand announced that border exemptions and the Critical Purpose Visitor Visa (CPVV) will be phased out due to the border reopening at the end of July.

All travelers will be permitted to enter Portugal without requiring proof of a negative COVID-19 test result, proof of vaccination or proof of recovering from COVID-19.

Effective 14 July 2022, the authorities of Taiwan will lift COVID-19 pre-arrival requirements for all Taiwanese nationals, ARC holders and transit passengers.

The Russian government will lift all COVID-19 entry restrictions for all foreign nationals entering the country via airway and sea borders.

The government of Australia updated its COVID-19 related entrance and exit requirements for all travelers on 6 July 2022 .

Travelers entering Qatar for the World Cup in the Fall of 2022 will need to apply for an identification card that will serve as an entry visa and allow the holder to travel around Qatar.

Thailand will reduce COVID-19 measures beginning 1 July 2022. Travelers entering the country should also ensure that they hold the appropriate immigration authorization prior to arrival.