New York from above

Spread the news...New York is open!

Updated 10th May 2023

Does your corporate travel take you to the USA? From Friday 12th May 2023, 12.01am EDT / 4.01am GMT, any UK traveller, whether vaccinated against COVID-19 or not, will be able to travel to the US; one of the few COVID-related travel requirements that have still been in place. The lengthy delays for obtaining visitor visas has also reduced from 17 weeks in June 2022, to just five weeks as of 13 February 2023.

To get you going, we've put together a comprehensive outline of everything you need to know to prepare for your trip to the Big Apple.

What you'll find on this page:

  • FAQs on vaccine and testing requirements. 
  • Airline, flight and booking information. 

Frequently asked questions

  • What counts as fully vaccinated?

    The US CDC website states you are considered fully vaccinated:

    • 2 weeks (14 days) after your dose of an accepted single-dose vaccine
    • 2 weeks (14 days) after your second dose of an accepted 2-dose series
    • 2 weeks (14 days) after you received the full series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine (not placebo) in a clinical trial
    • 2 weeks (14 days) after you received 2 doses of any “mix-and-match” combination of accepted COVID-19 vaccines administered at least 17 days apart*

    The CDC adds "If you don’t meet these requirements, you are not considered fully vaccinated. A booster dose is not needed to meet this requirement.

    "A person who has received only one dose of an accepted 2-dose series and has recovered from COVID-19 does not meet this definition, and therefore is not considered fully vaccinated for travel to the United States."

  • Can I travel to the US if I'm unvaccinated?

    Yes, from 4am on Friday 12th May 2023, there is no longer a requirement to be vaccinated to travel to the US. The Homeland Security has also confirmed from 12th May 2023, non-US travellers can enter from land ports of entry or ferries without having to show proof of vaccination. 

  • How do I apply for an ESTA?

     Here’s the link to apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). 

  • What are the vaccination requirements for New York and the US, and how do I show the result?

    As of 12th May 2023, you will not be required to show your vaccination status to fly to the United States. 

    In the unlikely event that you are asked, the USA will accept the NHS COVID pass on a smartphone or printout, and will also accept the European Digital COVID Certificate. Further information on the forms of acceptable proof of vaccination can be found on the CDC Website. Don’t forget to charge your smartphone battery before travelling. 

  • What can I expect at the airport and when flying?

    Please be aware that online check in may not be available for your flight. It is recommended that you arrive to the airport early ahead of your flight to allow extra time for check in, bag drop and security.

    The wearing of masks is optional. 

  • Do I need a COVID test and what’s required?

    The US removed the requirement for a negative COVID test for entry in June 2022 for most countries. 

    If you feel unwell, it is generally advised not to travel. 

  • CDC Travel Assessment

    Take this quick quiz to see if you are eligible to travel to the USA. 

  • Airline verification apps

    Airlines have their own verification apps - uploading your documents to these will speed up the check-in process. For more info and to download, check your airline below. 

  • Does the US still have COVID requirements? 

    It is recommended to wear a mask in public spaces, but not mandatory. 

  • After arriving in the USA

    Recommendations only. 

  • Are there any rules around contact tracing?

    Prior to travel, your airline may request your contact details including phone number and address while in the US. This can be provided usually in the “Manage my Booking” section of your airline website. For further assistance, speak to your Travel Consultant.

  • Where can I find more information?

    Speak to your Travel Consultant or contact us using the form below to get more information about your upcoming travel plans specific to your requirements and airline.

    FCDO travel advice for USA

    CDC Travel Guidance

COVID Travel Hub

Don’t get overwhelmed with all the COVID travel information. Use our tool to get specific country information based on where you’re flying to/from, your passport nationality and whether you’re fully vaccinated. 

Book your trip today

Ready when you are! If you’re planning to travel to New York soon, contact the FCM team any time. We'll support you every step of the way, from booking and pre-trip prep, to in-journey assistance.

Contact us

Traveller Checklist

Useful for every trip you've got coming up, whether in the USA or elsewhere. Tick off what you need to check before you travel with this handy checklist. 

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