WASHINGTON, April 22 – The United States government said on Thursday it extended the requirement that non-American citizens crossing the border or at ports on the US-Mexico border with US-Canada should be vaccinated against coronavirus.
The requirements were first adopted in November as part of the reopening of the United States in an area where foreign tourists cross after the borders were closed to many tourists since March 2020. Vaccination requirements would expire on Thursday without being extended.
International travelers over 2 years of age, regardless of citizenship, must have a sterile HIV test before arrival and non-US citizens must also demonstrate proof of immunization. People traveling in the country or at the crossroads do not have to give an incoming inspection.
There are a number of exceptions to the rules, including those who have recently received COVID-19 assistance.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said the decision was made after consulting with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC states that vaccines are an effective public health measure to protect people from COVID-19-related illnesses or deaths.
In January, the DHS extended vaccination requirements for key foreign workers such as truck drivers and nurses who cross the U.S. border.
President of the Michigan Agri-Business Association Chuck Lippstreu criticized DHS for “failing to provide reasonable relief to this agricultural truck drivers policy” and said “a plane on the face of reality down here in Michigan, where our agricultural sector is evolving. crossing the border and the ongoing shortage of drivers. “
Major airlines want the government to complete pre-departure requirements for COVID-19 for international vaccinated international travelers to the United States.
They argue that screening requirements are unnecessary and prevent Americans from traveling abroad because of the cost of testing and the risks they may incur abroad if they are found to have it.
Britain, France, Canada, Italy and many other countries have reduced pre-travel testing requirements for fully vaccinated tourists.