Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination is Now Required for Land or Ferry Entry to the U.S.
January 28, 2022The Department of Homeland Security now requires that all visa holders entering the U.S. from Mexico or Canada via land or ferry must provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination. This new policy does not apply to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), or U.S. nationals. The following groups are excepted from the new policy:
- Children under 18 years old;
- Individuals with medical contraindications to receiving a COVID-19 vaccine;
- Individuals with valid nonimmigrant visas who are citizens of a country with limited COVID-19 vaccine availability (this excludes B-1 or B-2 visas);
- Certain individuals on diplomatic or official foreign government travel;
- Certain participants in certain COVID-19 vaccine trials;
- Individuals issued a humanitarian or emergency exception by the Secretary of Homeland Security;
- Members of the U.S. Armed Forces or their spouses or children (under 18 years of age) as specified in the CDC Order; and
- Individuals whose entry would be in the U.S. national interest, as determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security.
It should also be noted that proof of negative COVID test is not required for entering the U.S. via land or ferry. The new policy is in effect until April 21, 2022 but may be extended.