COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Private Jet Travel News and Updates from our Field Notes November 19 2021

Updated Monday, November 22, 2021, 9:00 AM EST

United States

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • The new Presidential Proclamation went into effect Nov. 8. You can find our summary of the new rules on our blog. The main highlights include:
      • Foreign nationals must be fully vaccinated to enter, with few exceptions.
      • ALL VACCINTATED TRAVELERS (U.S. citizens included) must provide proof of negative test taken no more than 3 days before departure.
      • U.S. citizens who are not full-vaccinated must provide proof of negative test taken no more than 1 day before departure.
      • Crew are exempt from these requirements.
    • The CDC has developed a handy entry quiz to help travelers determine entry eligibility for the U.S.
    • Expired U.S. Passports for Return Travel – CBP issued this bulletin announcing that U.S. citizens holding a U.S. passport that expired on or after January 1, 2020 may still be able to use their expired U.S. passport for direct return travel to the United States until December 31, 2021.
    • Applications for signatory carrier status under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are still being processed. All U.S.-based operators (including some international companies with U.S. subsidiaries) and non-U.S. commercial operators are eligible to apply. If you are not a signatory carrier and qualify, we recommend you apply to increase your operating flexibility. We can help.
    • The U.S. STEP Program is an important risk mitigation program that U.S. nationals should be using on every international trip, especially now with COVID. When the first wave hit and we saw the massive wave of lockdowns, this program helped get people on the U.S. Embassy’s evacuation list to return home. It has a whole host of other benefits like if you lose your passport or have medical issues, if there is a terrorist incident or civil unrest, etc. Our Global Regulatory Services team offers an optional, turnkey STEP Registration Service for your trips with us.
    • Any operator entering the U.S. from the south should be taking advantage of the CBP’s Border Overflight Exemption (BOE) program to avoid having to make an extra stop at the first designated AOE when returning home. A BOE is good for 2 years, and it greatly increases your operational flexibility. We can take care of this for you.
    • Non-U.S. charter (non-scheduled commercial) operators flying to/from the U.S. with less than 12 flights per year MUST have a DOT Part 375 Ops Permit and/or Special Authorization. We can assist.
    • Hawaii – As of Nov 8, Hawaii now aligns with federal international requirements. Hawaii no longer has its own requirements for passengers flying directly into Hawaii from an international destination.
      • COVID tests don’t have to be done with Trusted Travel Partners under the new international federal requirements, but they do have to be done with a Trusted Travel Partner for unvaccinated domestic travel.
      • Fully-vaccinated domestic travelers are exempt from quarantine and testing but must still create an account in Safe Travels Hawaii, enter their trip details, upload their vaccination documentation, sign the legal attestations, and within 24 hours of departing to Hawaii, complete the online health questionnaire. More information available at: https://hawaiicovid19.com/travel/faqs/.
    • Puerto Rico – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. See details at www.travelsafe.pr.gov or www.viajaseguro.pr.gov. Proof of negative COVID test required to avoid quarantine. Crew are exempt.
    • USVI – Proof of negative COVID test result required for travelers from the mainland U.S. Visit the USVI Travel Screening Portal and fill out the info requested in advance. Additional information and testing requirements available on https://usviupdate.com/. Our preferred ground handler at TIST, Standard Aviation, has parking availability and can provide air transfers to neighboring Caribbean islands.
    • Alaska – Alaska’s travel mandates and orders are now just travel advisories. Full entry details online.

Canada

    • Airport Funneling in Effect – All international passenger flights, including those from the U.S., are required to enter Canada through one of the following funneling airports: CYYZ/Toronto, CYVR/Vancouver, CYUL/Montreal, and CYYC/Calgary, Edmonton/CYEG, Winnipeg/CYWG, Ottawa/CYOW, Quebec/CYQB, Halifax/CYHZ, and Toronto Island (CYTZ). Starting Nov. 30, the following will be added: CYHM/Hamilton, CYKF/Waterloo, CYYT/St. Johns, CYQR/Regina, CYXE/Saskatoon, CYLW/Kelowna, CYXX/Abbotsford and CYYJ/Victoria
    • Canada’s Vaccine Mandate – All travelers 12 and older are required to be fully vaccinated with an approved COVID-19 vaccine for Canadian domestic and international flights. Active crew may also have to be vaccinated depending on the situation. We cover this in detail on our blog.
    • Any foreign national that qualifies for the fully-vaccinated traveler exemption can enter Canada for discretionary travel. Use this self-assessment tool to check if you qualify for the exemption.
    • We’ve confirmed via CANPASS that crew are required to take a PCR test if staying longer than 72 hours.
    • All travelers are required to provide their COVID-related information, in advance, via ArriveCAN app or website.
    • Canada has this online tool to help you assess if you can enter the country.
    • See detailed restrictions for Canada.
  • Mexico is open and accessible.
  • Our ground handing teams in Mexico (Mexico City/Toluca, Los Cabos, Cancun, Cozumel, PV, Monterrey, etc.) are available to support your missions.
  • Renew Your Mexico Multiple Entry Permits Now – AFAC’s physical offices remains closed but is processing AOC renewals and modifications, one time permits, blanket permit modifications, and blanket permit verifications remotely/online. Note that AFAC is working under reduced staffing hours, so application processing will take longer than normal. For assistance with your Mexico permits, we can help.
  • Do this now to ensure your permits are approved in time for Jan. 1, 2022, as AFAC is working at reduced capacity, and it normally pauses on processing permits mid-Dec through early-Jan. Read our blog article for more on this, and why you should get this permit if you do multiple trips to Mexico a year. We can take care of this for you.
  • There is a no-touch Covid-19 health assessment form, which is required on arrival/departure. After completing the form, print or screen cap the QR code that is generated for easy access. You’ll need to present this to the health inspectors upon arrival into Mexico. Here is the link: https://afac.hostingerapp.com – Note that you need to actually copy/paste it into your browser; just clicking it will throw an error. A 14-day quarantine at residence may be necessary; however, popular tourist zones in the typical vacation cities (e.g., Cancun, Los Cabos, PV, Cozumel) are excluded.
  • The Mexican government has established an epidemiological traffic light monitoring system based on the number of cases and risk of contagion to manage the relaxing of restrictions. The status of it varies from state to state.

Caribbean

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  •  
    • Anguilla – Open to fully vaccinated travelers. Must apply at https://www.ivisitanguilla.com to receive an approval certificate from the Chief Medical Officer. Pre- and on-arrival testing required. Quarantine 24 hours until result is known. If negative, you are free to move about island. Travelers may be required to test on day 4 if staying more than 8 days.
    • Antigua and Barbuda – Fully vaccinated travelers, do not have to quarantine. However, both they AND crew are required to have a proof of a negative COVID test taken prior to arrival. See official website for details.
    • Aruba – Aruba is accepting flights from all U.S. states. Aruba’s Digital Embarkation-Disembarkation Card (ED card) and health insurance are required. Full details on entry requirements can be found here.
    • Bahamas – Open. Rapid antigen test required within 5 days after arrival in the Bahamas by all travelers. No quarantine required. Health insurance is required. More info at the Office of the Prime Minister and Reopen Bahamas.
    • Barbados – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers will only need to quarantine 1 day. Post-arrival testing required, unless coming from a designated “travel bubble” Caribbean island. Quarantine 24 hours until test result is known, after which you are free to move about the island. See details online.
    • Bermuda – Open. Vaccinated travelers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result to enter and proof of full vaccination uploaded to Travel Authorization Prior to departure. Vaccinated travelers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result to enter. They will also be tested on arrival and must quarantine until results are known (about 24 hours). Then they will be released from quarantine and free to move around.
    • Bonaire – Open to U.S travelers. Even with vaccine, a negative COVD test is still required for entry. Mandatory antigen testing on day 5 after arrival. Must complete a Health Declaration Form at www.bonairepublichealth.org. Quarantine is required unless traveling from “low-risk countries.”.
    • British Virgin Islands (BVI) – Open. All visitors 18 years and older must be fully vaccinated. See latest entry requirements.
    • Cayman Islands – Travelers from Canada, EU and the U.S. with securely verifiable vaccination records are allowed entry with 7-day quarantine. Starting Nov. 20, no quarantine will be required for vaccinated travelers. NOTE: Paper CDC cards not considered verifiable, so quarantine still required. See website for more details.
    • Cuba – Certain parts of country are open for tourism. U.S. sanctions still apply. May be subject to post-arrival testing at random.
    • Curacao – Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and these other countries are permitted to enter Curacao. Add’l post-arrival testing required.
    • Dominica – Open; however, entry requirements, disembarkation, and quarantine protocols vary depending on the country-of-origin’s risk level (CARICOM Travel Bubble, Low Risk, Medium Risk, High Risk) and whether or not travelers are vaccinated. U.S. sits on high risk, but vaccinated travelers who test negative during the post-arrival can proceed quarantine free. COVID test on arrival required for all travelers, regardless of vaccination status. Full details online.
    • Dominican Republic – Open to international passengers. Passengers who present a vaccination card and/or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in the Dominican Republic will be exempted from the random test. Universal Aviation DR is open and supporting missions.
    • Grenada – Open. Apply for approval online. Expect to quarantine. Tracer app required. More information online. Persons providing proof of full vaccination will only be required to quarantine for up to 48 hours, pending a negative result from a PCR test administered upon entry.
    • Guadeloupe – French territory. Open for vaccinated U.S. travelers.
    • Haiti – Open. No quarantine required for vaccinated travelers.
    • Jamaica – Open. All foreign crew and passengers must obtain travel authorization online prior to arrival. COVID-19 PCR or antigen test on arrival for travelers from high-risk countries, like the U.S., at cost of $150 USD. Quarantine required for length of stay or 14 days, in either a residence or tourist zone (“Resilient Corridor”). Fully vaccinated travelers have the option to shorten their mandatory 8-day quarantine by taking an additional (RT-PCR) for COVID-19 on arrival and with a negative result will be released from quarantine. See full details online.
    • Martinique – French territory – Open to vaccinated U.S. travelers for leisure. No quarantine.
    • Montserrat – Open to fully vaccinated travelers, including business travelers and tourists. Government pre-approval required.
    • St. Barts – French territory – Open for vaccinated travelers. Must complete online Health entry form prior to entry.
    • St. Lucia – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers exempt from quarantine. Travel registration and health screening questionnaire to be completed in advance and printed before arrival. Random medical screenings may apply. More info online.
    • St. Kitts & Nevis – Open. All travelers who are fully vaccinated must remain in quarantine for at least 24 hours and take a COVID-19 PCR test on the fourth day to exit quarantine. Health app required. Details online.
    • Sint Maarten (Dutch side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. However, TNCM falls on the Netherlands side. The Netherlands side is enacting stricter restrictions for passengers from “high-risk” countries. Travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter. Check with us for details based on your specific trip scenario. Fully-vaccinated travelers must have received the last dose or a booster dose of an accepted vaccine within 12 months before arriving in Sint Maarten.
    • St. Martin (French side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. Vaccinated travelers from Canada and USA will be allowed entry as tourists at St. Martin (French Side).
    • St. Vincent & Grenadines – Fully-vaccinated travelers from high-risk countries (including Canada and U.S.) are required to do pre-arrival testing. Upon arrival, authorities may require a COVID test, and if this takes place, the passengers will need to self-isolate until the results are known. Aircraft disinfection required. See full details and pre-authorization forms online.
    • Trinidad and Tobago – Fully vaccinated travelers can enter. Apply online in advance.
    • Turks and Caicos – Open to vaccinated travelers. All travelers to the Turks and Caicos are required to obtain a TCI Assure Travel Authorization at least 24 hours prior to boarding. Travel insurance required.
    • USVI and Puerto Rico – See U.S. section above.

Latin America

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Venezuela are still operational and supporting missions.
    • Argentina – Open foreign nationals who are fully vaccinated and can furnish a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours before travel. No quarantine if vaccinated. Crew must be vaccinated or they must quarantine the entire length of their stay. Universal Aviation Argentina can assist.
    • Belize – Vaccinated travelers allowed.
    • Brazil – COVID test and health entry form for both crew and passengers. Crew are not exempt. Universal Aviation Brazil is following our C19 Health and Safety standards to support you safely.
    • Bolivia – U.S. passengers allowed entry for business. Quarantine and travel health insurance required.
    • Chile – Vaccinated foreign passengers are allowed and can enter only at SCDA, SCFA, and SCEL airports. Requirements for entry are proof of vaccination, PCR test, health affidavit, travel medical insurance and self-isolate until COVID test results are known. Universal Aviation Chile is staying on top of the latest.
    • Colombia – International passengers are allowed to arrive in Colombia. CHECK MIG form required on the Colombian Immigration website. SKBO, SKCG, SKRG, and SKCL are open to accept flights from the U.S., Ecuador, Mexico, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Curacao, and Panama.
    • Costa Rica – Open. No quarantine is required. All passengers and crew must have travel insurance, unless fully vaccinated, and complete this health form in advance.
    • Ecuador – Open. Health form required. For mainland airports, no test required with proof of both vaccine doses. Galapagos airports SEGS and SEST still require a test.
    • El Salvador – Open. No quarantine.
    • Falkland Islands – Business flights require special invitation letter. Quarantine and periodic COVID testing required, no exemptions. Leisure flights possible if transiting direct to a private vessel. Contact locator form required. Adequate aeromedical insurance is recommended.
    • Guatemala – Open. Health screening on arrival.
    • Guyana – Open. No quarantine.
    • Honduras – Open for business flights. Quarantine not required with proof of vaccination.
    • Nicaragua – Open. No quarantine. Local contact and aircraft sanitization certificate required.
    • Panama – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers can bypass quarantine and COVID testing requirements. Must complete an online registration form.
    • Paraguay – Paraguay is open for flights. Proof of Medical insurance required. Health card required. With proof of vaccination, quarantine not required.
    • Peru – Reopened for international flights with the exception of those who have been in South Africa in the past 14 days.
    • Suriname – Flights require government approval. Health insurance and quarantine required. Aircraft Disinfection Required.
    • Uruguay – Fully-vaccinated travelers are allowed entry, as long as final dose of vaccine was within previous 9 months. No quarantine required. COVID testing required upon arrival. Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage is required.
    • Venezuela – Accessible with approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Quarantine at government facility required, up to 14 days. Aircraft Disinfection is required.

Europe

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Ireland, UK, France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey are all open and supporting missions.
    • Reopen Europe has improved its online tool for helping you assess entry requirements into the EU based on your trip scenario.
    • European countries that are accessible to passengers from the U.S. and other countries not on the EC’s list include:
      • Albania – Open. Health screening upon arrival. Travelers will require one of the following: proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test result.
      • Austria – Open. Immunized U.S. travelers can enter for leisure, without testing or self-isolation. Some nonessential travel is prohibited. See entry details online.
      • Belarus – Accessible. Travelers from this list of countries will likely have to self-quarantine. Immunized travelers are exempt from testing and isolation.
      • Belgium – Non-essential travel from U.S. is permitted. Test on arrival and isolation until results are known required. See details online.
      • Bosnia and Herzegovina – U.S. citizens are allowed entry with a negative COVID test, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery.
      • Bulgaria – The U.S. is on the Red List. Any traveler coming from the U.S. direct to Bulgaria will not be allowed to enter without approval from the Ministry of Health.
      • Croatia – Open for tourism with negative test, vaccine, or proof of recovery. Travelers from Cyprus, Russia, and the UK must have pre-arrival negative Covid-19 test, regardless of vaccine status. Our Universal Aviation offices in Italy are helping coordinate arrangements to enter Croatia for customers.
      • Cyprus – Open. The country is following this traffic light system. See details here.
      • Czech Republic – U.S. was added to the “Dark Red” category. With that, U.S. vaccinated persons can still enter without restriction, but non-vaccinated travelers can only enter for limited essential reasons and will have COVID testing requirements with a 10-day quarantine.
      • Denmark – Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other Green/Yellow/Orange or OECD category countries can enter without testing or quarantine. See detailed entry requirements. (Note: Captcha required to access site.)
      • Estonia – Fully-vaccinated travelers can enter. Testing and quarantine not required with vaccination.
      • Finland – As part of its phased reopening, vaccinated travelers from all countries (including the United States) are now permitted to enter Finland.
      • France – Open for tourism to fully vaccinated non-EU citizens from countries not on the red list. U.S. in now on the Orange list. Vaccinated travelers can enter for any reason. Our blog article has the full details.
        • France is the first EU country to offer a digital health pass for vaccinated non-EU citizens/residents. However, we’re getting reports it’s a slow process to obtain this. We’ve received on the ground intel that most establishments will accept a vaccine card. Read details here.
        • France now requires that passengers on domestic legs provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative PCR test. In addition, crew are required to provide this. This does not change active crew health entry requirements for international ops into France; just domestic legs in country.
      • Germany – U.S. travelers are allowed for tourism with either a negative test, proof of vaccination, or recent (6 month) proof of recovery. Quarantine can be bypassed with proof of vaccination or proof of recovery.
      • Greece – Open to U.S. travelers that are vaccinated OR those who have a negative PCR test result taken 72 hours before arrival. PLF form needs to be filled out at least 24 hours prior to arrival. Travel back and forth from the mainland to islands or vice versa requires PCR test or proof of vaccination. Indoor dining requires proof of vaccine or negative COVID test. Our FBO ground support offices in Greece are ready to support you.
      • Greenland – Open with prior permission. Proof of vaccination required for entry.
      • Hungary – U.S. persons can travel to Hungary for essential business. An invitation letter from the receiving party should be submitted in advance for approval. All U.S. passengers approved in for essential business don’t require COVID testing or quarantine.
      • Iceland – Open to travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery. Full details online.
      • Ireland – Our Universal Aviation offices in Dublin and Shannon can assist.
        • Fully-vaccinated and/or recently recovered travelers from the EU, UK, U.S., and other low risk countries are allowed to enter without testing or quarantine. See full details online.
        • Related to above, Ireland is participating in the EU’s Digital Green Pass Program, allowing pass holders with proof of vaccination, recovery, or recent test result.
        • This pre-departure testing provider is available at EIDW for travelers headed to the U.S.
        • U.S. CBP Preclearance is open at Shannon/EINN for GA; however, hours have changed again. Read our blog for details and ops procedures.
        • Shannon has an onsite COVID testing program providing quick turnaround. Appointments are required and can be booked online at https://rocdochealthcheck.ie.
      • Italy – Open to U.S. and Canadian citizens for tourism. Open to vaccinated travelers from the UK. Must have the following: 1) proof of vaccination or recovery, AND 2) proof of negative COVID test. Universal Aviation Italy is ready to support your missions.
      • Kosovo – Open. Vaccinated individuals are exempt from COVID-19 test requirement.
      • Latvia – Open for leisure. Passengers who have been in the EU, EEA, Switzerland, UK, or U.S. for the past 14 days and have proof of vaccine approved by European Medicines Agency or WHO are exempt from pre-arrival Covid-19 testing and self-isolation.
      • Macedonia – Open. All persons arriving in North Macedonia will need to present either a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before entry, proof of full vaccination, or proof of having recovered from COVID-19 within the previous 45 days.
      • Malta – Immunized travelers from the USA, which is on the Red list, will be allowed entry.
      • Moldova – International travelers are required to present proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test result to enter.
      • Montenegro – Open to U.S. citizens. Travelers must present vaccination certificate, negative Covid test, or proof of recovery. Aircraft disinfection required.
      • Netherlands – All fully-vaccinated travelers arriving from areas designated very high risk without a COVID-19 variant of concern are exempt from mandatory quarantine, including travelers from the United States. See website for details and consult with us prior to operation.
      • Norway – Open to Green List EU countries without quarantine. We’re expecting to soon hear about plans for easing to the U.S. soon.
      • Poland – Allowed travelers, including U.S. citizens, with an EU-approved vaccine OR proof of recovery are exempt from quarantine. The updated flight ban list can be found online.
      • Portugal – Officially open to tourism, including U.S./Canadian travelers. Travelers from the UK require proof of vaccination or quarantine for 14 days. Note: Portugal has implemented a new carbon tax for charter ops.
      • Romania – Open. No quarantine for fully vaccinated.
      • Russia – Allowing international travelers from a number of countries, including the U.S. and Mexico, for nonessential travel. Canadians and Latin American countries are still prohibited.
      • Serbia – U.S. citizens can enter for business or tourism. No quarantine required. Aircraft disinfection required.
      • Slovak Republic – Immunized business travelers with acceptable reason for business can be exempted from quarantine. Travelers from the EU and Schengen region are not required to test or quarantine with proof of vaccine. Travelers from Red countries (including USA) can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test on the fifth day of quarantine.
      • Slovenia – International arrivals must provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test to enter without quarantine. See website for details.
      • Spain – Open to fully-vaccinated U.S. travelers.
      • Sweden – As of Nov. 5, vaccinated U.S. residents can travel direct. More details here.
      • Switzerland – Open to U.S. and Canadian travelers. Proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative test result required. Quarantine only required for visitors if they have been to any of these countries (note that U.S is NOT on this list) at any time within the last 14 days before entering Switzerland.
      • Turkey – Travelers from high-risk countries (none of which are EU, UK, US, or Canada) must quarantine. Other than the high-risk countries above, Turkey remains open on the Mediterranean to Private/Business flights (including leisure) regardless the country of registration and/or nationality of passenger. Our Universal Aviation office in Turkey can provide assistance.
      • Ukraine – Open to unvaccinated travelers. No quarantine required. Medical insurance and tracer app required. Aircraft disinfection required. Read more online.
      • UK – Accessible. See section below for more details.
    • UK –
      • UK entry requirements –
        • As of Nov 1, the UK has removed all countries from the COVID-19 red list. Note: This does not mean the Red List is gone for good. Countries can be added at any time.
        • Vaccinated travelers arriving from non-Red countries – and having not visited a Red country over previous 10 days – do not need to present a negative COVID test to enter. A COVID test will still need to be taken on or before day 2 (note: arrival day is considered day 0), which as of Oct 24 are simple lateral flow tests.
        • Unvaccinated travelers arriving from non-Red countries will need to present proof of a negative COVID test result taken within 72 hours before departure, self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival, and take a COVID test on the second and eighth day of their quarantine period.
        • Only citizens of the UK and Ireland, as well as permanent residents of the UK, will be allowed to enter from Red countries under the new regulations. Regardless of vaccination status, these travelers will need to take a COVID-19 within 72 hours before departure, and quarantine in a government-approved hotel facility for 10 days at their own expense and test on day two and day eight after arrival.
        • Crew no longer need to fill out the PLF form.
      • RAF Northolt Airport in London has extended its M-F operating hours by three hours to 0800-2000L. This is a big deal because as the closest GA-accessible to central London, as well as the closest airport to Heathrow, these longer hours make it a much better option for international operators. Universal Aviation Northolt worked hard to make this happen. IMPORTANT: Northolt to be closed Dec. 22nd – Jan. 4th for the holidays.
      • Don’t miss your UK-APD payments – Passenger flights out of the UK are subject to Air Passenger Duty (UK-APD) payments, and many operators forget to pay these within the 7-day deadline. Since we have a local office, we can monitor and manage any payments owed on your behalf. Just send a request to our Global Regulatory Team to get started. It’s a fast and easy setup process.
      • A new emissions reporting scheme now applies as a result of Brexit – UK-ETS. If you need help with your UK-ETS monitoring and reporting, we can make this easy for you. Contact our Global Regulatory team directly.

Updated Monday, November 15, 2021, 8:00 AM EST

United States

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • The new Presidential Proclamation went into effect Nov. 8. You can find our summary of the new rules on our blog. The main highlights include:
      • Foreign nationals must be fully vaccinated to enter, with few exceptions.
      • ALL VACCINTATED TRAVELERS (U.S. citizens included) must provide proof of negative test taken no more than 3 days before departure.
      • U.S. citizens who are not full-vaccinated must provide proof of negative test taken no more than 1 day before departure.
      • Crew are exempt from these requirements.
    • The CDC has developed a handy entry quiz to help travelers determine entry eligibility for the U.S.
    • Expired U.S. Passports for Return Travel – CBP issued this bulletin announcing that U.S. citizens holding a U.S. passport that expired on or after January 1, 2020 may still be able to use their expired U.S. passport for direct return travel to the United States until December 31, 2021.
    • Applications for signatory carrier status under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are still being processed. All U.S.-based operators (including some international companies with U.S. subsidiaries) and non-U.S. commercial operators are eligible to apply. If you are not a signatory carrier and qualify, we recommend you apply to increase your operating flexibility. We can help.
    • The U.S. STEP Program is an important risk mitigation program that U.S. nationals should be using on every international trip, especially now with COVID. When the first wave hit and we saw the massive wave of lockdowns, this program helped get people on the U.S. Embassy’s evacuation list to return home. It has a whole host of other benefits like if you lose your passport or have medical issues, if there is a terrorist incident or civil unrest, etc. Our Global Regulatory Services team offers an optional, turnkey STEP Registration Service for your trips with us.
    • Any operator entering the U.S. from the south should be taking advantage of the CBP’s Border Overflight Exemption (BOE) program to avoid having to make an extra stop at the first designated AOE when returning home. A BOE is good for 2 years, and it greatly increases your operational flexibility. We can take care of this for you.
    • Non-U.S. charter (non-scheduled commercial) operators flying to/from the U.S. with less than 12 flights per year MUST have a DOT Part 375 Ops Permit and/or Special Authorization. We can assist.
    • Hawaii – As of Nov 8, Hawaii now aligns with federal international requirements. Hawaii no longer has its own requirements for passengers flying directly into Hawaii from an international destination.
      • COVID tests don’t have to be done with Trusted Travel Partners under the new international federal requirements, but they do have to be done with a Trusted Travel Partner for unvaccinated domestic travel.
      • Fully-vaccinated domestic travelers are exempt from quarantine and testing but must still create an account in Safe Travels Hawaii, enter their trip details, upload their vaccination documentation, sign the legal attestations, and within 24 hours of departing to Hawaii, complete the online health questionnaire. More information available at: https://hawaiicovid19.com/travel/faqs/.
    • Puerto Rico – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. See details at www.travelsafe.pr.gov or www.viajaseguro.pr.gov. Proof of negative COVID test required to avoid quarantine. Crew are exempt.
    • USVI – Proof of negative COVID test result required for travelers from the mainland U.S. Visit the USVI Travel Screening Portal and fill out the info requested in advance. Additional information and testing requirements available on https://usviupdate.com/. Our preferred ground handler at TIST, Standard Aviation, has parking availability and can provide air transfers to neighboring Caribbean islands.
    • Alaska – Alaska’s travel mandates and orders are now just travel advisories. Full entry details online.

Canada

    • Airport Funneling in Effect – All international passenger flights, including those from the U.S., are required to enter Canada through one of the following funneling airports: CYYZ/Toronto, CYVR/Vancouver, CYUL/Montreal, and CYYC/Calgary, Edmonton/CYEG, Winnipeg/CYWG, Ottawa/CYOW, Quebec/CYQB, Halifax/CYHZ, and Toronto Island (CYTZ). Starting Nov. 30, the following will be added: CYHM/Hamilton, CYKF/Waterloo, CYYT/St. Johns, CYQR/Regina, CYXE/Saskatoon, CYLW/Kelowna, CYXX/Abbotsford and CYYJ/Victoria
    • Canada’s Vaccine Mandate – All travelers 12 and older are required to be fully vaccinated with an approved COVID-19 vaccine for Canadian domestic and international flights. Active crew may also have to be vaccinated depending on the situation. We cover this in detail on our blog.
    • Any foreign national that qualifies for the fully-vaccinated traveler exemption can enter Canada for discretionary travel. Use this self-assessment tool to check if you qualify for the exemption.
    • We’ve confirmed via CANPASS that crew are required to take a PCR test if staying longer than 72 hours.
    • All travelers are required to provide their COVID-related information, in advance, via ArriveCAN app or website.
    • Canada has this online tool to help you assess if you can enter the country.

Mexico

  • Mexico is open and accessible.
  • Our ground handing teams in Mexico (Mexico City/Toluca, Los Cabos, Cancun, Cozumel, PV, Monterrey, etc.) are available to support your missions.
  • Renew Your Mexico Multiple Entry Permits Now – AFAC’s physical offices remains closed but is processing AOC renewals and modifications, one time permits, blanket permit modifications, and blanket permit verifications remotely/online. Note that AFAC is working under reduced staffing hours, so application processing will take longer than normal. For assistance with your Mexico permits, we can help.
  • Do this now to ensure your permits are approved in time for Jan. 1, 2022, as AFAC is working at reduced capacity, and it normally pauses on processing permits mid-Dec through early-Jan. Read our blog article for more on this, and why you should get this permit if you do multiple trips to Mexico a year. We can take care of this for you.
  • There is a no-touch Covid-19 health assessment form, which is required on arrival/departure. After completing the form, print or screen cap the QR code that is generated for easy access. You’ll need to present this to the health inspectors upon arrival into Mexico. Here is the link: https://afac.hostingerapp.com – Note that you need to actually copy/paste it into your browser; just clicking it will throw an error. A 14-day quarantine at residence may be necessary; however, popular tourist zones in the typical vacation cities (e.g., Cancun, Los Cabos, PV, Cozumel) are excluded.
  • The Mexican government has established an epidemiological traffic light monitoring system based on the number of cases and risk of contagion to manage the relaxing of restrictions. The status of it varies from state to state.

Caribbean

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Anguilla – Open to fully vaccinated travelers. Must apply at https://www.ivisitanguilla.com to receive an approval certificate from the Chief Medical Officer. Pre- and on-arrival testing required. Quarantine 24 hours until result is known. If negative, you are free to move about island.
    • Antigua and Barbuda – Fully vaccinated travelers, do not have to quarantine. However, both they AND crew are required to have a proof of a negative COVID test taken prior to arrival. See official website for details.
    • Aruba – Aruba is accepting flights from all U.S. states. Aruba’s Digital Embarkation-Disembarkation Card (ED card) and health insurance are required. Full details on entry requirements can be found here.
    • Bahamas – Open. Rapid antigen test required within 5 days after arrival in the Bahamas by all travelers. No quarantine required. Health insurance is required. More info at the Office of the Prime Minister and Reopen Bahamas.
    • Barbados – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers will only need to quarantine 1 day. Post-arrival testing required, unless coming from a designated “travel bubble” Caribbean island. Quarantine 24 hours until test result is known, after which you are free to move about the island. See details online.
    • Bermuda – Open. Vaccinated travelers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result to enter and proof of full vaccination uploaded to Travel Authorization Prior to departure. Vaccinated travelers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result to enter. They will also be tested on arrival and must quarantine until results are known (about 24 hours). Then they will be released from quarantine and free to move around.
    • Bonaire – Open to U.S travelers. Even with vaccine, a negative COVD test is still required for entry. Mandatory antigen testing on day 5 after arrival. Must complete a Health Declaration Form at www.bonairepublichealth.org. Quarantine is required unless traveling from “low-risk countries.”.
    • British Virgin Islands (BVI) – Open. All visitors 18 years and older must be fully vaccinated. See latest entry requirements.
    • Cayman Islands – Travelers from Canada, EU and the U.S. with securely verifiable vaccination records are allowed entry with 7-day quarantine. Starting Nov. 20, no quarantine will be required for vaccinated travelers. NOTE: Paper CDC cards not considered verifiable, so quarantine still required. See website for more details.
    • Cuba – Certain parts of country are open for tourism. U.S. sanctions still apply. Add’l post-arrival testing required. Until Nov 7, quarantine is required with negative PCR test result to exit quarantine on day 7.
    • Curacao – Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and these other countries are permitted to enter Curacao. Add’l post-arrival testing required.
    • Dominica – Open; however, entry requirements, disembarkation, and quarantine protocols vary depending on the country-of-origin’s risk level (CARICOM Travel Bubble, Low Risk, Medium Risk, High Risk) and whether or not travelers are vaccinated. U.S. sits on high risk, but vaccinated travelers who test negative during the post-arrival can proceed quarantine free. COVID test on arrival required for all travelers, regardless of vaccination status. Full details online.
    • Dominican Republic – Open to international passengers. Passengers who present a vaccination card and/or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in the Dominican Republic will be exempted from the random test. Universal Aviation DR is open and supporting missions.
    • Grenada – Open. Apply for approval online. Expect to quarantine. Tracer app required. More information online. Persons providing proof of full vaccination will only be required to quarantine for up to 48 hours, pending a negative result from a PCR test administered upon entry.
    • Guadeloupe – French territory. Open for vaccinated U.S. travelers.
    • Haiti – Open. No quarantine required for vaccinated travelers.
    • Jamaica – Open. All foreign crew and passengers must obtain travel authorization online prior to arrival. COVID-19 PCR or antigen test on arrival for travelers from high-risk countries, like the U.S., at cost of $150 USD. Quarantine required for length of stay or 14 days, in either a residence or tourist zone (“Resilient Corridor”). Fully vaccinated travelers have the option to shorten their mandatory 8-day quarantine by taking an additional (RT-PCR) for COVID-19 on arrival and with a negative result will be released from quarantine. See full details online.
    • Martinique – French territory – Open to vaccinated U.S. travelers for leisure. No quarantine.
    • Montserrat – Open to fully vaccinated travelers, including business travelers and tourists. Government pre-approval required.
    • St. Barts – French territory – Open for vaccinated travelers. Must complete online Health entry form prior to entry.
    • St. Lucia – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers exempt from quarantine. Travel registration and health screening questionnaire to be completed in advance and printed before arrival. Random medical screenings may apply. More info online.
    • St. Kitts & Nevis – Open. All travelers who are fully vaccinated must remain in quarantine for at least 24 hours and take a COVID-19 PCR test on the fourth day to exit quarantine. Health app required. Details online.
    • Sint Maarten (Dutch side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. However, TNCM falls on the Netherlands side. The Netherlands side is enacting stricter restrictions for passengers from “high-risk” countries. Travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter. Check with us for details based on your specific trip scenario. Fully-vaccinated travelers must have received the last dose or a booster dose of an accepted vaccine within 12 months before arriving in Sint Maarten.
    • St. Martin (French side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. Vaccinated travelers from Canada and USA will be allowed entry as tourists at St. Martin (French Side).
    • St. Vincent & Grenadines – Fully-vaccinated travelers from high-risk countries (including Canada and U.S.) are required to do pre-arrival testing. Upon arrival, authorities may require a COVID test, and if this takes place, the passengers will need to self-isolate until the results are known. Aircraft disinfection required. See full details and pre-authorization forms online.
    • Trinidad and Tobago – Fully vaccinated travelers can enter. Apply online in advance.
    • Turks and Caicos – Open to vaccinated travelers. All travelers to the Turks and Caicos are required to obtain a TCI Assure Travel Authorization at least 24 hours prior to boarding. Travel insurance required.
    • USVI and Puerto Rico – See U.S. section above.
    • Ask your Universal Trip Support team for a Feasibility Guide to get detailed intelligence for your destination of interest.

Latin America

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Venezuela are still operational and supporting missions.
    • Argentina – Open foreign nationals who are fully vaccinated and can furnish a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours before travel. No quarantine if vaccinated. Crew must be vaccinated or they must quarantine the entire length of their stay. Universal Aviation Argentina can assist.
    • Belize – Vaccinated travelers allowed.
    • Brazil – COVID test and health entry form for both crew and passengers. Crew are not exempt. Universal Aviation Brazil is following our C19 Health and Safety standards to support you safely.
    • Bolivia – U.S. passengers allowed entry for business. Quarantine and travel health insurance required.
    • Chile – Vaccinated foreign passengers are allowed and can enter only at SCDA, SCFA, and SCEL airports. Requirements for entry are proof of vaccination, PCR test, health affidavit, travel medical insurance and self-isolate until COVID test results are known. Universal Aviation Chile is staying on top of the latest.
    • Colombia – International passengers are allowed to arrive in Colombia. CHECK MIG form required on the Colombian Immigration website. SKBO, SKCG, SKRG, and SKCL are open to accept flights from the U.S., Ecuador, Mexico, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Curacao, and Panama.
    • Costa Rica – Open. No quarantine is required. All passengers and crew must have travel insurance, unless fully vaccinated, and complete this health form in advance.
    • Ecuador – Open. Health form required. For mainland airports, no test required with proof of both vaccine doses. Galapagos airports SEGS and SEST still require a test.
    • El Salvador – Open. No quarantine.
    • Falkland Islands – Business flights require special invitation letter. Quarantine and periodic COVID testing required, no exemptions. Leisure flights possible if transiting direct to a private vessel. Contact locator form required. Adequate aeromedical insurance is recommended.
    • Guatemala – Open. Health screening on arrival.
    • Guyana – Open. No quarantine.
    • Honduras – Open for business flights. Quarantine not required with proof of vaccination.
    • Nicaragua – Open. No quarantine. Local contact and aircraft sanitization certificate required.
    • Panama – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers can bypass quarantine and COVID testing requirements. Must complete an online registration form.
    • Paraguay – Paraguay is open for flights. Proof of Medical insurance required. Health card required. With proof of vaccination, quarantine not required.
    • Peru – Reopened for international flights with the exception of those who have been in South Africa in the past 14 days.
    • Suriname – Flights require government approval. Health insurance and quarantine required. Aircraft Disinfection Required.
    • Uruguay – Fully-vaccinated travelers are allowed entry, as long as final dose of vaccine was within previous 9 months. No quarantine required. COVID testing required upon arrival. Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage is required.
    • Venezuela – Accessible with approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Quarantine at government facility required, up to 14 days. Aircraft Disinfection is required.

Europe

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Ireland, UK, France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey are all open and supporting missions.
    • Reopen Europe has improved its online tool for helping you assess entry requirements into the EU based on your trip scenario.
    • European countries that are accessible to passengers from the U.S. and other countries not on the EC’s list include:
      • Albania – Open. Health screening upon arrival. Travelers will require one of the following: proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test result.
      • Austria – Open. Immunized U.S. travelers can enter for leisure, without testing or self-isolation. Some nonessential travel is prohibited. See entry details online.
      • Belarus – Accessible. Travelers from this list of countries will likely have to self-quarantine. Immunized travelers are exempt from testing and isolation.
      • Belgium – Non-essential travel from U.S. is permitted. Test on arrival and isolation until results are known required. See details online.
      • Bosnia and Herzegovina – U.S. citizens are allowed entry with a negative COVID test, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery.
      • Bulgaria – The U.S. is on the Red List. Any traveler coming from the U.S. direct to Bulgaria will not be allowed to enter without approval from the Ministry of Health.
      • Croatia – Open for tourism with negative test, vaccine, or proof of recovery. Travelers from Cyprus, Russia, and the UK must have pre-arrival negative Covid-19 test, regardless of vaccine status. Our Universal Aviation offices in Italy are helping coordinate arrangements to enter Croatia for customers.
      • Cyprus – Open. The country is following this traffic light system. See details here.
      • Czech Republic – U.S. was added to the “Dark Red” category. With that, U.S. vaccinated persons can still enter without restriction, but non-vaccinated travelers can only enter for limited essential reasons and will have COVID testing requirements with a 10-day quarantine.
      • Denmark – Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other Green/Yellow/Orange or OECD category countries can enter without testing or quarantine. See detailed entry requirements. (Note: Captcha required to access site.)
      • Estonia – Fully-vaccinated travelers can enter. Testing and quarantine not required with vaccination.
      • Finland – As part of its phased reopening, vaccinated travelers from all countries (including the United States) are now permitted to enter Finland.
      • France – Open for tourism to fully vaccinated non-EU citizens from countries not on the red list. U.S. in now on the Orange list. Vaccinated travelers can enter for any reason. Our blog article has the full details.
        • France is the first EU country to offer a digital health pass for vaccinated non-EU citizens/residents. However, we’re getting reports it’s a slow process to obtain this. We’ve received on the ground intel that most establishments will accept a vaccine card. Read details here.
        • France now requires that passengers on domestic legs provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative PCR test. In addition, crew are required to provide this. This does not change active crew health entry requirements for international ops into France; just domestic legs in country.
      • Germany – U.S. travelers are allowed for tourism with either a negative test, proof of vaccination, or recent (6 month) proof of recovery. Quarantine can be bypassed with proof of vaccination or proof of recovery.
      • Greece – Open to U.S. travelers that are vaccinated OR those who have a negative PCR test result taken 72 hours before arrival. PLF form needs to be filled out at least 24 hours prior to arrival. Travel back and forth from the mainland to islands or vice versa requires PCR test or proof of vaccination. Indoor dining requires proof of vaccine or negative COVID test. Our FBO ground support offices in Greece are ready to support you.
      • Greenland – Open with prior permission. Proof of vaccination required for entry.
      • Hungary – U.S. persons can travel to Hungary for essential business. An invitation letter from the receiving party should be submitted in advance for approval. All U.S. passengers approved in for essential business don’t require COVID testing or quarantine.
      • Iceland – Open to travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery. Full details online.
      • Ireland – Our Universal Aviation offices in Dublin and Shannon can assist.
        • Fully-vaccinated and/or recently recovered travelers from the EU, UK, U.S., and other low risk countries are allowed to enter without testing or quarantine. See full details online.
        • Related to above, Ireland is participating in the EU’s Digital Green Pass Program, allowing pass holders with proof of vaccination, recovery, or recent test result.
        • This pre-departure testing provider is available at EIDW for travelers headed to the U.S.
        • U.S. CBP Preclearance is open at Shannon/EINN for GA; however, hours have changed again. Read our blog for details and ops procedures.
        • Shannon has an onsite COVID testing program providing quick turnaround. Appointments are required and can be booked online at https://rocdochealthcheck.ie.
      • Italy – Open to U.S. and Canadian citizens for tourism. Open to vaccinated travelers from the UK. Must have the following: 1) proof of vaccination or recovery, AND 2) proof of negative COVID test. Universal Aviation Italy is ready to support your missions.
      • Kosovo – Open. Vaccinated individuals are exempt from COVID-19 test requirement.
      • Latvia – Open for leisure. Passengers who have been in the EU, EEA, Switzerland, UK, or U.S. for the past 14 days and have proof of vaccine approved by European Medicines Agency or WHO are exempt from pre-arrival Covid-19 testing and quarantine.
      • Macedonia – Open. All persons arriving in North Macedonia will need to present either a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before entry, proof of full vaccination, or proof of having recovered from COVID-19 within the previous 45 days.
      • Malta – Immunized travelers from the USA, which is on the Red list, will be allowed entry.
      • Moldova – International travelers are required to present proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test result to enter.
      • Montenegro – Open to U.S. citizens. Travelers must present vaccination certificate, negative Covid test, or proof of recovery. Aircraft disinfection required.
      • Netherlands – All fully-vaccinated travelers arriving from areas designated very high risk without a COVID-19 variant of concern are exempt from mandatory quarantine, including travelers from the United States. See website for details and consult with us prior to operation.
      • Norway – Open to Green List EU countries without quarantine. We’re expecting to soon hear about plans for easing to the U.S. soon.
      • Poland – Allowed travelers, including U.S. citizens, with an EU-approved vaccine OR proof of recovery are exempt from quarantine. The updated flight ban list can be found online.
      • Portugal – Officially open to tourism, including U.S./Canadian travelers. Travelers from the UK require proof of vaccination or quarantine for 14 days. Note: Portugal has implemented a new carbon tax for charter ops.
      • Russia – Allowing international travelers from a number of countries, including the U.S. and Mexico, for nonessential travel. Canadians and Latin American countries are still prohibited.
      • Serbia – U.S. citizens can enter for business or tourism. No quarantine required. Aircraft disinfection required.
      • Slovak Republic – Immunized business travelers with acceptable reason for business can be exempted from quarantine. Travelers from the EU and Schengen region are not required to test or quarantine with proof of vaccine. Travelers from Red countries (including USA) can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test on the fifth day of quarantine.
      • Slovenia – International arrivals must provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test to enter without quarantine. See website for details.
      • Spain – Open to fully-vaccinated U.S. travelers.
      • Sweden – As of Nov. 5, vaccinated U.S. residents can travel direct. More details here.
      • Switzerland – Open to U.S. and Canadian travelers. Proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative test result required. Quarantine only required for visitors if they have been to any of these countries (note that U.S is NOT on this list) at any time within the last 14 days before entering Switzerland.
      • Turkey – Travelers from high-risk countries (none of which are EU, UK, US, or Canada) must quarantine. Other than the high-risk countries above, Turkey remains open on the Mediterranean to Private/Business flights (including leisure) regardless the country of registration and/or nationality of passenger. Our Universal Aviation office in Turkey can provide assistance.
      • Ukraine – Open to unvaccinated travelers. No quarantine required. Medical insurance and tracer app required. Aircraft disinfection required. Read more online.
      • UK – Accessible. See section below for more details.
    • UK –
      • UK entry requirements –
        • As of Nov 1, the UK has removed all countries from the COVID-19 red list. Note: This does not mean the Red List is gone for good. Countries can be added at any time.
        • Vaccinated travelers arriving from non-Red countries – and having not visited a Red country over previous 10 days – do not need to present a negative COVID test to enter. A COVID test will still need to be taken on or before day 2 (note: arrival day is considered day 0), which as of Oct 24 are simple lateral flow tests.
        • Unvaccinated travelers arriving from non-Red countries will need to present proof of a negative COVID test result taken within 72 hours before departure, self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival, and take a COVID test on the second and eighth day of their quarantine period.
        • Only citizens of the UK and Ireland, as well as permanent residents of the UK, will be allowed to enter from Red countries under the new regulations. Regardless of vaccination status, these travelers will need to take a COVID-19 within 72 hours before departure, and quarantine in a government-approved hotel facility for 10 days at their own expense and test on day two and day eight after arrival.
        • Crew no longer need to fill out the PLF form.
      • RAF Northolt Airport in London has extended its M-F operating hours by three hours to 0800-2000L. This is a big deal because as the closest GA-accessible to central London, as well as the closest airport to Heathrow, these longer hours make it a much better option for international operators. Universal Aviation Northolt worked hard to make this happen.
      • Don’t miss your UK-APD payments – Passenger flights out of the UK are subject to Air Passenger Duty (UK-APD) payments, and many operators forget to pay these within the 7-day deadline. Since we have a local office, we can monitor and manage any payments owed on your behalf. Just send a request to our Global Regulatory Team to get started. It’s a fast and easy setup process.
      • A new emissions reporting scheme now applies as a result of Brexit – UK-ETS. If you need help with your UK-ETS monitoring and reporting, we can make this easy for you. Contact our Global Regulatory team directly.

Updated Monday, November 8, 2021, 6:00 AM EST

United States

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • The Presidential Proclamations that currently ban travel for non-U.S. nationals who have visited a banned region/country (like Europe) over the preceding 14 days are slated to expire Nov 8. We’ve omitted details on the current restrictions from this summary for brevity as they are about to expire. To find them, visit our blog.
  • Effective Nov 8, this new Presidential Proclamation goes into effect. You can find our summary of the new rules on our blog. The main highlights include:
    • Foreign nationals must be fully vaccinated to enter, with few exceptions.
    • ALL VACCINTATED TRAVELERS (U.S. citizens included) must provide proof of negative test taken no more than 3 days before departure.
    • U.S. citizens who are not full-vaccinated must provide proof of negative test taken no more than 1 day before departure.
    • Crew are exempt from these requirements.
  • The CDC has developed a handy entry quiz to help travelers determine entry eligibility for the U.S.
  • Expired U.S. Passports for Return Travel – CBP issued this bulletin announcing that U.S. citizens holding a U.S. passport that expired on or after January 1, 2020 may still be able to use their expired U.S. passport for direct return travel to the United States until December 31, 2021.
  • Applications for signatory carrier status under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are still being processed. All U.S.-based operators (including some international companies with U.S. subsidiaries) and non-U.S. commercial operators are eligible to apply. If you are not a signatory carrier and qualify, we recommend you apply to increase your operating flexibility. We can help.
  • The National Interest Waiver (NIW) is another avenue foreign nationals can seek for entry into the U.S. and can be an effective means of entry. Allowed purposes of visit include Business, Education, Training, and Medical. Application for entry is available for the following U.S. AOEs: KLAX, KEWR, KDFW, KJFK, and KIAH, as well as through the U.S. Embassy in France and the UK. Our Global Regulatory Services team has worked out the repeatable process to apply at each of these and can provide support.
  • On June 29, the U.S. extended the validity for National Interest Exemptions (NIEs) for travelers from China, Iran, Brazil, S. Africa, the Schengen Area, UK, Ireland, and India by 12 months. Details here.
  • The U.S. STEP Program is an important risk mitigation program that U.S. nationals should be using on every international trip, especially now with COVID. When the first wave hit and we saw the massive wave of lockdowns, this program helped get people on the U.S. Embassy’s evacuation list to return home. It has a whole host of other benefits like if you lose your passport or have medical issues, if there is a terrorist incident or civil unrest, etc. Our Global Regulatory Services team offers an optional, turnkey STEP Registration Service for your trips with us.
  • Any operator entering the U.S. from the south should be taking advantage of the CBP’s Border Overflight Exemption (BOE) program to avoid having to make an extra stop at the first designated AOE when returning home. A BOE is good for 2 years, and it greatly increases your operational flexibility. We can take care of this for you.
  • Non-U.S. charter (non-scheduled commercial) operators flying to/from the U.S. with less than 12 flights per year MUST have a DOT Part 375 Ops Permit and/or Special Authorization. We can assist.
  • Hawaii – Travelers who have been vaccinated in the United States, may enter Hawaii without a negative COVID-19 test. International travelers still require a COVID test at one of Hawaii’s approved testing providers. Additional easing on local restrictions expected as vaccination numbers rise. Be prepared to provide proof of vaccination or a COVID test to enter some establishments depending on which island and county you visit.
    • Oahu now requiring proof of vaccination to enter most indoor establishments. Read online.
    • Maui now requiring proof of vaccination to dine indoors.
  • Puerto Rico – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. See details at www.travelsafe.pr.gov or www.viajaseguro.pr.gov. Proof of negative COVID test required to avoid quarantine. Crew are exempt.
  • USVI – Proof of negative COVID test result required for travelers from the mainland U.S. Visit the USVI Travel Screening Portal and fill out the info requested in advance. Additional information and testing requirements available on https://usviupdate.com/. Our preferred ground handler at TIST, Standard Aviation, has parking availability and can provide air transfers to neighboring Caribbean islands.
  • Alaska – Alaska’s travel mandates and orders are now just travel advisories. Full entry details online.

Canada

  • Airport Funneling in Effect – All international passenger flights, including those from the U.S., are required to enter Canada through one of the following funneling airports: CYYZ/Toronto, CYVR/Vancouver, CYUL/Montreal, and CYYC/Calgary, Edmonton/CYEG, Winnipeg/CYWG, Ottawa/CYOW, Quebec/CYQB, Halifax/CYHZ, and Toronto Island (CYTZ). Starting Nov. 30, the following will be added: CYHM/Hamilton, CYKF/Waterloo, CYYT/St. Johns, CYQR/Regina, CYXE/Saskatoon, CYLW/Kelowna, CYXX/Abbotsford and CYYJ/Victoria
  • Canada’s Vaccine Mandate – All travelers 12 and older are required to be fully vaccinated with an approved COVID-19 vaccine for Canadian domestic and international flights. Active crew may also have to be vaccinated depending on the situation. We cover this in detail on our blog.
  • Any foreign national that qualifies for the fully-vaccinated traveler exemption can enter Canada for discretionary travel. Use this self-assessment tool to check if you qualify for the exemption.
  • We’ve confirmed via CANPASS that crew are required to take a PCR test if staying longer than 72 hours.
  • All travelers are required to provide their COVID-related information, in advance, via ArriveCAN app or website.
  • Canada has this online tool to help you assess if you can enter the country.

Mexico

  • Mexico is open and accessible.
  • Our ground handing teams in Mexico (Mexico City/Toluca, Los Cabos, Cancun, Cozumel, PV, Monterrey, etc.) are available to support your missions.
  • Renew Your Mexico Multiple Entry Permits Now – AFAC’s physical offices remains closed but is processing AOC renewals and modifications, one time permits, blanket permit modifications, and blanket permit verifications remotely/online. Note that AFAC is working under reduced staffing hours, so application processing will take longer than normal. For assistance with your Mexico permits, we can help.
  • Do this now to ensure your permits are approved in time for Jan. 1, 2022, as AFAC is working at reduced capacity, and it normally pauses on processing permits mid-Dec through early-Jan. Read our blog article for more on this, and why you should get this permit if you do multiple trips to Mexico a year. We can take care of this for you.
  • There is a no-touch Covid-19 health assessment form, which is required on arrival/departure. After completing the form, print or screen cap the QR code that is generated for easy access. You’ll need to present this to the health inspectors upon arrival into Mexico. Here is the link: https://afac.hostingerapp.com – Note that you need to actually copy/paste it into your browser; just clicking it will throw an error. A 14-day quarantine at residence may be necessary; however, popular tourist zones in the typical vacation cities (e.g., Cancun, Los Cabos, PV, Cozumel) are excluded.
  • The Mexican government has established an epidemiological traffic light monitoring system based on the number of cases and risk of contagion to manage the relaxing of restrictions. The status of it varies from state to state.

Caribbean

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Anguilla – open to fully vaccinated travelers. Pre- and on-arrival testing required. Quarantine 24 hours until result is known. If negative, you are free to move about island.
    • Antigua and Barbuda – Fully vaccinated travelers, do not have to quarantine. However, both they AND crew are required to have a proof of a negative COVID test taken prior to arrival. See official website for details.
    • Aruba – Aruba is accepting flights from all U.S. states. Aruba’s Digital Embarkation-Disembarkation Card (ED card) and health insurance are required. Full details on entry requirements can be found here.
    • Bahamas – Open. Rapid antigen test required within 5 days after arrival in the Bahamas by all travelers. No quarantine required. Health insurance is required. More info at the Office of the Prime Minister and Reopen Bahamas.
    • Barbados – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers will only need to quarantine 1 day. Post-arrival testing required, unless coming from a designated “travel bubble” Caribbean island. Quarantine 24 hours until test result is known, after which you are free to move about the island. See details online.
    • Bermuda – Open. Vaccinated travelers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result to enter. They will also be tested on arrival and must quarantine until results are known (about 24 hours). Then they will be released from quarantine and free to move around.
    • Bonaire – Open to U.S travelers. Even with vaccine, a negative COVD test is still required for entry. Mandatory antigen testing on day 5 after arrival. Must complete a Health Declaration Form at www.bonairepublichealth.org. Quarantine is required unless traveling from “low-risk countries.”.
    • British Virgin Islands (BVI) – Open. All visitors 18 years and older must be fully vaccinated. See latest entry requirements.
    • Cayman Islands – Travelers from Canada, EU and the U.S. with securely verifiable vaccination records are allowed entry with 7-day quarantine. Starting Nov 20, no quarantine will be required for vaccinated travelers. See website for more details.
    • Cuba – Certain parts of country are open for tourism. U.S. sanctions still apply. Add’l post-arrival testing required. Until Nov 7, quarantine is required with negative PCR test result to exit quarantine on day 7.
    • Curacao – Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and these other countries are permitted to enter Curacao. Add’l post-arrival testing required.
    • Dominica – Open; however, entry requirements, disembarkation, and quarantine protocols vary depending on the country-of-origin’s risk level (CARICOM Travel Bubble, Low Risk, Medium Risk, High Risk) and whether or not travelers are vaccinated. U.S. sits on high risk, but vaccinated travelers who test negative during the post-arrival can proceed quarantine free. COVID test on arrival required for all travelers, regardless of vaccination status. Full details online.
    • Dominican Republic – Open to international passengers. Passengers who present a vaccination card and/or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in the Dominican Republic will be exempted from the random test. Universal Aviation DR is open and supporting missions.
    • Grenada – Open. Apply for approval online. Expect to quarantine. Tracer app required. More information online. Persons providing proof of full vaccination will only be required to quarantine for up to 48 hours, pending a negative result from a PCR test administered upon entry.
    • Guadeloupe – French territory. Open for vaccinated U.S. travelers.
    • Haiti – Open. No quarantine required for vaccinated travelers.
    • Jamaica – Open. All foreign crew and passengers must obtain travel authorization online prior to arrival. COVID-19 PCR or antigen test on arrival for travelers from high-risk countries, like the U.S., at cost of $150 USD. Quarantine required for length of stay or 14 days, in either a residence or tourist zone (“Resilient Corridor”). Fully vaccinated travelers have the option to shorten their mandatory 8-day quarantine by taking an additional (RT-PCR) for COVID-19 on arrival and with a negative result will be released from quarantine. See full details online.
    • Martinique – French territory – Open to vaccinated U.S. travelers for leisure. No quarantine.
    • Montserrat – Open to fully vaccinated travelers, including business travelers and tourists. Government pre-approval required.
    • St. Barts – French territory – Open for vaccinated travelers. Must complete online Health entry form prior to entry.
    • St. Lucia – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers exempt from quarantine. Travel registration and health screening questionnaire to be completed in advance and printed before arrival. Random medical screenings may apply. More info online.
    • St. Kitts & Nevis – Open. All travelers who are fully vaccinated must remain in quarantine for at least 24 hours and take a COVID-19 PCR test on the fourth day to exit quarantine. Health app required. Details online.
    • Sint Maarten (Dutch side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. However, TNCM falls on the Netherlands side. The Netherlands side is enacting stricter restrictions for passengers from “high-risk” countries. Travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter. Check with us for details based on your specific trip scenario.
    • St. Martin (French side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. Vaccinated travelers from Canada and USA will be allowed entry as tourists at St. Martin (French Side).
    • St. Vincent & Grenadines – Fully-vaccinated travelers from high-risk countries (including Canada and U.S.) are required to do pre- and on-arrival testing. 48-hour quarantine required at a government-approved hotel/resort or facility. Testing upon arrival required for crew as well. Aircraft disinfection required. See full details and pre-authorization forms online.
    • Trinidad and Tobago – Fully vaccinated travelers can enter. Apply online in advance.
    • Turks and Caicos – Open to vaccinated travelers. All travelers to the Turks and Caicos are required to obtain a TCI Assure Travel Authorization at least 24 hours prior to boarding. Travel insurance required.
    • USVI and Puerto Rico – See U.S. section above.

Latin America

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Venezuela are still operational and supporting missions.
    • Argentina – Open foreign nationals who are fully vaccinated and can furnish a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours before travel. No quarantine if vaccinated. Crew must be vaccinated or they must quarantine the entire length of their stay. Universal Aviation Argentina can assist.
    • Belize – Vaccinated travelers allowed.
    • Brazil – COVID test and health entry form for both crew and passengers. Crew are not exempt. Universal Aviation Brazil is following our C19 Health and Safety standards to support you safely.
    • Bolivia – U.S. passengers allowed entry for business. Quarantine and travel health insurance required.
    • Chile – Vaccinated foreign passengers are allowed and can enter only at SCDA, SCFA, and SCEL airports. Requirements for entry are proof of vaccination, PCR test, health affidavit, travel medical insurance and 5-day quarantine. Universal Aviation Chile is staying on top of the latest.
    • Colombia – International passengers are allowed to arrive in Colombia. CHECK MIG form required on the Colombian Immigration website. SKBO, SKCG, SKRG, and SKCL are open to accept flights from the U.S., Ecuador, Mexico, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Curacao, and Panama.
    • Costa Rica – Open. No quarantine is required. All passengers and crew must have travel insurance, unless fully vaccinated, and complete this health form in advance.
    • Ecuador – Open. Health form required. For mainland airports, no test required with proof of both vaccine doses. Galapagos airports SEGS and SEST still require a test.
    • El Salvador – Open. No quarantine.
    • Falkland Islands – Business flights require special invitation letter. Quarantine and periodic COVID testing required, no exemptions. Leisure flights possible if transiting direct to a private vessel. Contact locator form required. Adequate aeromedical insurance is recommended.
    • Guatemala – Open. Health screening on arrival.
    • Guyana – Open. No quarantine.
    • Honduras – Open for business flights. Quarantine not required with proof of vaccination.
    • Nicaragua – Open. No quarantine. Local contact, aircraft sanitization certificate, and traveler declaration form required.
    • Panama – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers can bypass quarantine and COVID testing requirements. Must complete an online registration form.
    • Paraguay – Paraguay is open for flights. Proof of Medical insurance required. Health card required. With proof of vaccination, quarantine not required.
    • Peru – Reopened for international flights with the exception of those who have been in South Africa in the past 14 days.
    • Suriname – Flights require government approval. Health insurance and quarantine required. Aircraft Disinfection Required.
    • Uruguay – Fully-vaccinated travelers are allowed entry, as long as final dose of vaccine was within previous 9 months. No quarantine required. COVID testing required upon arrival. Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage is required.
    • Venezuela – Accessible with approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Quarantine at government facility required, up to 14 days. Aircraft Disinfection is required.

Europe

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  •  
    • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Ireland, UK, France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey are all open and supporting missions.
    • Reopen Europe has improved its online tool for helping you assess entry requirements into the EU based on your trip scenario.
    • European countries that are accessible to passengers from the U.S. and other countries not on the EC’s list include:
      • Albania – Open. Health screening upon arrival. Travelers will require one of the following: proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test result.
      • Austria – Open. Immunized U.S. travelers can enter for leisure, without testing or self-isolation. Some nonessential travel is prohibited. See entry details online.
      • Belarus – Accessible. Travelers from this list of countries will likely have to self-quarantine. Immunized travelers are exempt from testing and isolation.
      • Belgium – Non-essential travel from countries on the “white list” (including U.S.) are allowed to Belgium with an approved vaccine certificate, including the U.S. CDC card. See details online.
      • Bosnia and Herzegovina – U.S. citizens are allowed entry with a negative COVID test, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery.
      • Bulgaria – The U.S. is on the Red List. Any traveler coming from the U.S. direct to Bulgaria will not be allowed to enter without approval from the Ministry of Health.
      • Croatia – Open for tourism with negative test, vaccine, or proof of recovery. Travelers from Cyprus, Russia, and the UK must have pre-arrival negative Covid-19 test, regardless of vaccine status. Our Universal Aviation offices in Italy are helping coordinate arrangements to enter Croatia for customers.
      • Cyprus – Open. The country is following this traffic light system. See details here.
      • Czech Republic – U.S. was added to the “Dark Red” category. With that, U.S. vaccinated persons can still enter without restriction, but non-vaccinated travelers can only enter for limited essential reasons and will have COVID testing requirements with a 10-day quarantine.
      • Denmark – Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other Green/Yellow/Orange or OECD category countries can enter without testing or quarantine. See detailed entry requirements. (Note: Captcha required to access site.)
      • Estonia – Fully-vaccinated travelers can enter. Testing and quarantine not required with vaccination.
      • Finland – As part of its phased reopening, vaccinated travelers from all countries (including the United States) are now permitted to enter Finland.
      • France – Open for tourism to fully vaccinated non-EU citizens from countries not on the red list. U.S. in now on the Orange list. Vaccinated travelers can enter for any reason. Our blog article has the full details.
        • France is the first EU country to offer a digital health pass for vaccinated non-EU citizens/residents. However, we’re getting reports it’s a slow process to obtain this. We’ve received on the ground intel that most establishments will accept a vaccine card. Read details here.
        • France now requires that passengers on domestic legs provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative PCR test. In addition, crew are required to provide this. This does not change active crew health entry requirements for international ops into France; just domestic legs in country.
      • Germany – U.S. travelers are allowed for tourism with either a negative test, proof of vaccination, or recent (6 month) proof of recovery. Quarantine can be bypassed with proof of vaccination or proof of recovery.
      • Greece – Open to U.S. travelers that are vaccinated OR those who have a negative PCR test result taken 72 hours before arrival. PLF form needs to be filled out at least 24 hours prior to arrival. Travel back and forth from the mainland to islands or vice versa requires PCR test or proof of vaccination. Indoor dining requires proof of vaccine or negative COVID test. Our FBO ground support offices in Greece are ready to support you.
      • Greenland – Open with prior permission. Proof of vaccination required for entry.
      • Hungary – U.S. persons can travel to Hungary for essential business. An invitation letter from the receiving party should be submitted in advance for approval. All U.S. passengers approved in for essential business don’t require COVID testing or quarantine.
      • Iceland – Open to travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery. Full details online.
      • Ireland – Our Universal Aviation offices in Dublin and Shannon can assist.
        • Fully-vaccinated travelers from the EU, UK, U.S., and other low risk countries are allowed to enter without testing or quarantine. See full details online.
        • Related to above, Ireland is participating in the EU’s Digital Green Pass Program, allowing pass holders with proof of vaccination, recovery, or recent test result.
        • This pre-departure testing provider is available at EIDW for travelers headed to the U.S.
        • U.S. CBP Preclearance is open at Shannon/EINN for GA; however, hours have changed again. Read our blog for details and ops procedures.
        • Shannon has an onsite COVID testing program providing quick turnaround. Appointments are required and can be booked online at https://rocdochealthcheck.ie.
      • Italy – Open to U.S. and Canadian citizens for tourism. Open to vaccinated travelers from the UK. Must have the following: 1) proof of vaccination or recovery, AND 2) proof of negative COVID test. Universal Aviation Italy is ready to support your missions.
      • Latvia – Open for leisure. Passengers who have been in the EU, EEA, Switzerland, UK, or U.S. for the past 14 days and have proof of vaccine approved by European Medicines Agency or WHO are exempt from pre-arrival Covid-19 testing and quarantine.
      • Macedonia – Open. All persons arriving in North Macedonia will need to present either a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before entry, proof of full vaccination, or proof of having recovered from COVID-19 within the previous 45 days.
      • Malta – Immunized travelers from the USA, which is on the Red list, will be allowed entry.
      • Moldova – International travelers are required to present proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test result to enter.
      • Montenegro – Open to U.S. citizens. Travelers must present vaccination certificate, negative Covid test, or proof of recovery. Aircraft disinfection required.
      • Netherlands – All fully-vaccinated travelers arriving from areas designated very high risk without a COVID-19 variant of concern are exempt from mandatory quarantine, including travelers from the United States. See website for details and consult with us prior to operation.
      • Norway – Open to Green List EU countries without quarantine. We’re expecting to soon hear about plans for easing to the U.S. soon.
      • Poland – Allowed travelers, including U.S. citizens, with an EU-approved vaccine OR proof of recovery are exempt from quarantine. The updated flight ban list can be found online.
      • Portugal – Officially open to tourism, including U.S./Canadian travelers. Travelers from the UK require proof of vaccination or quarantine for 14 days. Note: Portugal has implemented a new carbon tax for charter ops.
      • Russia – Allowing international travelers from a number of countries, including the U.S. and Mexico. Canadians and Latin American countries are still prohibited.
      • Serbia – U.S. citizens can enter for business or tourism. No quarantine required.
      • Slovak Republic – Immunized business travelers with acceptable reason for business can be exempted from quarantine. Travelers from the EU and Schengen region are not required to test or quarantine with proof of vaccine. Travelers from Red countries (including USA) can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test on the fifth day of quarantine.
      • Slovenia – International arrivals must provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test to enter without quarantine. See website for details.
      • Spain – Open to fully-vaccinated U.S. travelers.
      • Sweden – Starting Nov. 5, vaccinated U.S. residents can travel direct. Currently, they can only enter indirectly via another EU country. Proof of vaccination required. More details here.
      • Switzerland – Open to U.S. and Canadian travelers. Proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative test result required. Quarantine only required for visitors if they have been to any of these countries (note that U.S is NOT on this list) at any time within the last 14 days before entering Switzerland.
      • Turkey – Travelers from high-risk countries (none of which are EU, UK, US, or Canada) must quarantine. Other than the high-risk countries above, Turkey remains open on the Mediterranean to Private/Business flights (including leisure) regardless the country of registration and/or nationality of passenger. Our Universal Aviation office in Turkey can provide assistance.
      • Ukraine – Open to unvaccinated travelers. No quarantine required. Medical insurance and tracer app required. Aircraft disinfection required. Read more online.
      • UK – Accessible. See section below for more details.
    • UK –
      • UK entry requirements –
        • As of Nov 1, the UK has removed all countries from the COVID-19 red list. Note: This does not mean the Red List is gone for good. Countries can be added at any time.
        • Vaccinated travelers arriving from non-Red countries – and having not visited a Red country over previous 10 days – do not need to present a negative COVID test to enter. A COVID test will still need to be taken on or before day 2 (note: arrival day is considered day 0), which as of Oct 24 are simple lateral flow tests.
        • Unvaccinated travelers arriving from non-Red countries will need to present proof of a negative COVID test result taken within 72 hours before departure, self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival, and take a COVID test on the second and eighth day of their quarantine period.
        • Only citizens of the UK and Ireland, as well as permanent residents of the UK, will be allowed to enter from Red countries under the new regulations. Regardless of vaccination status, these travelers will need to take a COVID-19 within 72 hours before departure, and quarantine in a government-approved hotel facility for 10 days at their own expense and test on day two and day eight after arrival.
      • RAF Northolt Airport in London has extended its M-F operating hours by three hours to 0800-2000L. This is a big deal because as the closest GA-accessible to central London, as well as the closest airport to Heathrow, these longer hours make it a much better option for international operators. Universal Aviation Northolt worked hard to make this happen.
      • Don’t miss your UK-APD payments – Passenger flights out of the UK are subject to Air Passenger Duty (UK-APD) payments, and many operators forget to pay these within the 7-day deadline. Since we have a local office, we can monitor and manage any payments owed on your behalf. Just send a request to our Global Regulatory Team to get started. It’s a fast and easy setup process.
      • A new emissions reporting scheme now applies as a result of Brexit – UK-ETS. If you need help with your UK-ETS monitoring and reporting, we can make this easy for you. Contact our Global Regulatory team directly.

Updated Monday, November 1, 2021, 6:00 AM EST

United States

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • U.S. – See details on new entry requirements starting Nov. 8.
    • The Presidential Proclamations that currently ban travel for non-U.S. nationals who have visited a banned region/country (like Europe) over the preceding 14 days are slated to expire Nov 8. We’ve omitted details on the current restrictions from this summary for brevity as they are about to expire. To find them, visit our blog.
    • Effective Nov 8, this new Presidential Proclamation goes into effect. You can find our summary of the new rules on our blog. The main highlights include:
      • Foreign nationals must be fully vaccinated to enter, with few exceptions.
      • ALL VACCINTATED TRAVELERS (U.S. citizens included) must provide proof of negative test taken no more than 3 days before departure.
      • U.S. citizens who are not full-vaccinated must provide proof of negative test taken no more than 1 day before departure.
      • Crew are exempt from these requirements.
    • The CDC has developed a handy entry quiz to help travelers determine entry eligibility for the U.S.
    • Expired U.S. Passports for Return Travel – CBP issued this bulletin announcing that U.S. citizens holding a U.S. passport that expired on or after January 1, 2020 may still be able to use their expired U.S. passport for direct return travel to the United States until December 31, 2021.
    • Applications for signatory carrier status under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are still being processed. All U.S.-based operators (including some international companies with U.S. subsidiaries) and non-U.S. commercial operators are eligible to apply. If you are not a signatory carrier and qualify, we recommend you apply to increase your operating flexibility. We can help.
    • The National Interest Waiver (NIW) is another avenue foreign nationals can seek for entry into the U.S. and can be an effective means of entry. Allowed purposes of visit include Business, Education, Training, and Medical. Application for entry is available for the following U.S. AOEs: KLAX, KEWR, KDFW, KJFK, and KIAH, as well as through the U.S. Embassy in France and the UK. Our Global Regulatory Services team has worked out the repeatable process to apply at each of these and can provide support.
    • On June 29, the U.S. extended the validity for National Interest Exemptions (NIEs) for travelers from China, Iran, Brazil, S. Africa, the Schengen Area, UK, Ireland, and India by 12 months. Details here.
    • The U.S. STEP Program is an important risk mitigation program that U.S. nationals should be using on every international trip, especially now with COVID. When the first wave hit and we saw the massive wave of lockdowns, this program helped get people on the U.S. Embassy’s evacuation list to return home. It has a whole host of other benefits like if you lose your passport or have medical issues, if there is a terrorist incident or civil unrest, etc. Our Global Regulatory Services team offers an optional, turnkey STEP Registration Service for your trips with us.
    • Any operator entering the U.S. from the south should be taking advantage of the CBP’s Border Overflight Exemption (BOE) program to avoid having to make an extra stop at the first designated AOE when returning home. A BOE is good for 2 years, and it greatly increases your operational flexibility. We can take care of this for you.
    • Non-U.S. charter (non-scheduled commercial) operators flying to/from the U.S. with less than 12 flights per year MUST have a DOT Part 375 Ops Permit and/or Special Authorization. We can assist.
    • Hawaii – Travelers who have been vaccinated in the United States, may enter Hawaii without a negative COVID-19 test. International travelers still require a COVID test at one of Hawaii’s approved testing providers. Additional easing on local restrictions expected as vaccination numbers rise. Be prepared to provide proof of vaccination or a COVID test to enter some establishments depending on which island and county you visit.
      • Oahu now requiring proof of vaccination to enter most indoor establishments. Read online.
      • Maui now requiring proof of vaccination to dine indoors.
    • Puerto Rico – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. See details at www.travelsafe.pr.gov or www.viajaseguro.pr.gov. Proof of negative COVID test required to avoid quarantine. Crew are exempt.
    • USVI – Proof of negative COVID test result required for travelers from the mainland U.S. Visit the USVI Travel Screening Portal and fill out the info requested in advance. Additional information and testing requirements available on https://usviupdate.com/. Our preferred ground handler at TIST, Standard Aviation, has parking availability and can provide air transfers to neighboring Caribbean islands.
    • Alaska – Alaska’s travel mandates and orders are now just travel advisories. Full entry details online.

Canada

  • Canada’s Pax Vax Mandate Starts Oct. 30: All travelers 12 and older will be required to be fully vaccinated with an approved COVID-19 vaccine for Canadian domestic and international flights.
  • Any foreign national that qualifies for the fully-vaccinated traveler exemption can enter Canada for discretionary travel. Use this self-assessment tool to check if you qualify for the exemption.
  • Vaccination Requirement for Active Crew: Transport Canada has released Interim Order 42, which replaces the heavily debated Interim Order 41, which included a requirement that active crew be vaccinated. Despite intense lobbying efforts against it, the new order still has the vaccination requirement for active crew, and it’s now in effect.
  • We’ve confirmed via CANPASS that crew are required to take a PCR test if staying longer than 72 hours.
  • All travelers are required to provide their COVID-related information, in advance, via ArriveCAN app or website.
  • Canada has this online tool to help you assess if you can enter the country.
  • Airport Funneling in Effect – All international passenger flights, including those from the U.S., are required to enter Canada through one of the following nine funneling airports: CYYZ/Toronto, CYVR/Vancouver, CYUL/Montreal, and CYYC/Calgary, Edmonton/CYEG, Winnipeg/CYWG, Ottawa/CYOW, Quebec/CYQB, Halifax/CYHZ, and Toronto Island (CYTZ). Initial announcement for the first 4 airports. Announcement on the 5 added in August. Toronto Island was just added to the list in Sept., and more are expected soon. Medevac, ferry and crew repatriation flights, cargo-only flights, and tech stops where no passengers disembark are exempt.

Mexico

  • Mexico is open and accessible.
    • Our ground handing teams in Mexico (Mexico City/Toluca, Los Cabos, Cancun, Cozumel, PV, Monterrey, etc.) are available to support your missions.
    • Renew Your Mexico Multiple Entry Permits Now – AFAC’s physical offices remains closed but is processing AOC renewals and modifications, one time permits, blanket permit modifications, and blanket permit verifications remotely/online. Note that AFAC is working under reduced staffing hours, so application processing will take longer than normal. For assistance with your Mexico permits, we can help.
    • Do this now to ensure your permits are approved in time for Jan. 1, 2022, as AFAC is working at reduced capacity, and it normally pauses on processing permits mid-Dec through early-Jan. Read our blog article for more on this, and why you should get this permit if you do multiple trips to Mexico a year. We can take care of this for you.
    • There is a no-touch Covid-19 health assessment form, which is required on arrival/departure. After completing the form, print or screen cap the QR code that is generated for easy access. You’ll need to present this to the health inspectors upon arrival into Mexico. Here is the link: https://afac.hostingerapp.com – Note that you need to actually copy/paste it into your browser; just clicking it will throw an error. A 14-day quarantine at residence may be necessary; however, popular tourist zones in the typical vacation cities (e.g., Cancun, Los Cabos, PV, Cozumel) are excluded.
    • The Mexican government has established an epidemiological traffic light monitoring system based on the number of cases and risk of contagion to manage the relaxing of restrictions. The status of it varies from state to state.

Caribbean

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Anguilla – Open. Only open to fully vaccinated travelers. Pre- and on-arrival testing required. Quarantine 24 hours until result is known. If negative, you are free to move about island.
    • Antigua and Barbuda – Fully vaccinated travelers, do not have to quarantine. However, both they AND crew are required to have a proof of a negative COVID test taken prior to arrival. See official website for details.
    • Aruba – Aruba is accepting flights from all U.S. states. Aruba’s Digital Embarkation-Disembarkation Card (ED card) and health insurance are required. Full details on entry requirements can be found here.
    • Bahamas – Open. Rapid antigen test required within 5 days after arrival in the Bahamas by all travelers. No quarantine required. This electronic health visa must be completed. Health insurance is required. More info at the Office of the Prime Minister and Reopen Bahamas.
    • Barbados – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers will only need to quarantine 1 day. Post-arrival testing required, unless coming from a designated “travel bubble” Caribbean island. Quarantine 24 hours until test result is known, after which you are free to move about the island. See details online.
    • Bermuda – Open. Vaccinated travelers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result to enter. They will also be tested on arrival and must quarantine until results are known (about 24 hours). Then they will be released from quarantine and free to move around.
    • Bonaire – Open to U.S travelers. Even with vaccine, a negative COVD test is still required for entry. Mandatory antigen testing on day 5 after arrival. Must complete a Health Declaration Form at www.bonairepublichealth.org. Quarantine is required unless traveling from “low-risk countries.”.
    • British Virgin Islands (BVI) – British Virgin Islands (BVI) –Open. Effective Nov 1, all visitors 18 years and older must be fully vaccinated. See latest entry requirements.
    • Cayman Islands – Limited tourism began Sept. 9. Travelers from Canada, EU and the U.S. with securely verifiable vaccination records are allowed entry with 7-day quarantine. See website for more details.
    • Cuba – Certain parts of country are open for tourism. U.S. sanctions still apply. Add’l post-arrival testing required. Quarantine is required with negative PCR test result to exit quarantine on day 7.
    • Curacao – Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and these other countries are permitted to enter Curacao. Add’l post-arrival testing required.
    • Dominica – Open; however, entry requirements, disembarkation, and quarantine protocols vary depending on the country-of-origin’s risk level (CARICOM Travel Bubble, Low Risk, Medium Risk, High Risk) and whether or not travelers are vaccinated. U.S. sits on high risk, but vaccinated travelers who test negative during the post-arrival can proceed quarantine free. COVID test on arrival required for all travelers, regardless of vaccination status. Full details online.
    • Dominican Republic – Open to international passengers. Passengers who present a vaccination card and/or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in the Dominican Republic will be exempted from the random test. Universal Aviation DR is open and supporting missions.
    • Grenada – Open. Apply for approval online. Expect to quarantine. Tracer app required. More information online. Persons providing proof of full vaccination will only be required to quarantine for up to 48 hours, pending a negative result from a PCR test administered upon entry.
    • Guadeloupe – French territory. Open for vaccinated U.S. travelers.
    • Haiti – Open. No quarantine required for vaccinated travelers.
    • Jamaica – Open. All foreign crew and passengers must obtain travel authorization online prior to arrival. COVID-19 PCR or antigen test on arrival for travelers from high-risk countries, like the U.S., at cost of $150 USD. Quarantine required for length of stay or 14 days, in either a residence or tourist zone (“Resilient Corridor”). Fully vaccinated travelers have the option to shorten their mandatory 8-day quarantine by taking an additional (RT-PCR) for COVID-19 on arrival and with a negative result will be released from quarantine. See full details online.
    • Martinique – French territory – Open to vaccinated U.S. travelers for leisure.
    • Montserrat – Open to fully vaccinated travelers, including business travelers and tourists. Government pre-approval required.
    • St. Barts – French territory – Open for vaccinated travelers. Must complete online Health entry form prior to entry.
    • St. Lucia – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers exempt from quarantine. Travel registration and health screening questionnaire to be completed in advance and printed before arrival. Random medical screenings may apply. More info online.
    • St. Kitts & Nevis – Open. All travelers who are fully vaccinated must remain in quarantine for at least 24 hours and take a COVID-19 PCR test on the fourth day to exit quarantine. Health app required. Details online.
    • Sint Maarten (Dutch side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. However, TNCM falls on the Netherlands side. The Netherlands side is enacting stricter restrictions for passengers from “high-risk” countries. Travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter. Check with us for details based on your specific trip scenario.
    • St. Martin (French side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. Vaccinated travelers from Canada and USA will be allowed entry as tourists at St. Martin (French Side).
    • St. Vincent & Grenadines – Fully-vaccinated travelers from high-risk countries (including Canada and U.S.) are required to do pre- and on-arrival testing. 48-hour quarantine required at a government-approved hotel/resort or facility. Testing upon arrival required for crew as well. Aircraft disinfection required. See full details and pre-authorization forms online.
    • Trinidad and Tobago – Fully vaccinated travelers can enter. Apply online in advance.
    • Turks and Caicos – Open to vaccinated travelers. All travelers to the Turks and Caicos are required to obtain a TCI Assure Travel Authorization at least 24 hours prior to boarding. Travel insurance required.
    • USVI and Puerto Rico – See U.S. section above.

Latin America

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  •  
    • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Venezuela are still operational and supporting missions.
    • Argentina – the country announced that it will allow all foreign visitors to enter for any purpose (including leisure) starting Nov. 1. No quarantine if vaccinated. Universal Aviation Argentina can assist. Until then, can only enter with special authorization by the government.
    • Belize – Vaccinated travelers allowed.
    • Brazil – COVID test and health entry form for both crew and passengers. Crew are not exempt. Universal Aviation Brazil is following our C19 Health and Safety standards to support you safely.
    • Bolivia – U.S. passengers allowed entry for business. Quarantine and travel health insurance required.
    • Chile – Vaccinated foreign passengers are allowed and can enter only at SCDA, SCFA, and SCEL airports. Requirements for entry are proof of vaccination, PCR test, health affidavit, travel medical insurance and 5-day quarantine. Universal Aviation Chile is staying on top of the latest.
    • Colombia – International passengers are allowed to arrive in Colombia. CHECK MIG form required on the Colombian Immigration website. SKBO, SKCG, SKRG, and SKCL are open to accept flights from the U.S., Ecuador, Mexico, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Curacao, and Panama.
    • Costa Rica – Open. No quarantine is required. All passengers and crew must have travel insurance, unless fully vaccinated, and complete this health form in advance.
    • Ecuador – Open. Health form required. For mainland airports, no test required with proof of both vaccine doses. Galapagos airports SEGS and SEST still require a test.
    • El Salvador – Open. No quarantine.
    • Falkland Islands – Business flights require special invitation letter. Quarantine and periodic COVID testing required, no exemptions. Leisure flights possible if transiting direct to a private vessel. Contact locator form required. Adequate aeromedical insurance is recommended.
    • Guatemala – Open. Health screening on arrival.
    • Guyana – Open. No quarantine.
    • Honduras – Open for business flights. Quarantine not required with proof of vaccination.
    • Nicaragua – Open. No quarantine. Local contact, aircraft sanitization certificate, and traveler declaration form required.
    • Panama – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers can bypass quarantine and COVID testing requirements. Must complete an online registration form.
    • Paraguay – Paraguay is open for flights. Proof of Medical insurance required. Health card required. With proof of vaccination, quarantine not required.
    • Peru – Reopened for international flights with the exception of those who have been in South Africa in the past 14 days.
    • Suriname – Flights require government approval. Health insurance and quarantine required. Aircraft Disinfection Required.
    • Uruguay – Foreign non-residents can enter with special authorization issued by the government and a valid reason to travel. Vaccinated passengers will be exempt from quarantine. Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage is required.
    • Venezuela – Accessible with approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Quarantine at government facility required, up to 14 days. Aircraft Disinfection is required.

Europe

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Ireland, UK, France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey are all open and supporting missions.
    • Reopen Europe has improved its online tool for helping you assess entry requirements into the EU based on your trip scenario.
    • The EU has removed the U.S. from its “safe list” as of August 2021. See details:
      • This is guidance only and non-binding. Each EU member country is following this guidance in its own way. See country-level details below.
      • This has no impact on ops to the UK, as it is no longer an EU member post BREXIT.
    • European countries that are accessible to passengers from the U.S. and other countries not on the EC’s list include:
      • Albania – Open. Health screening upon arrival. Travelers will require one of the following: proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test result.
      • Austria – Open. Immunized U.S. travelers can enter for leisure, without testing or self-isolation. Some nonessential travel is prohibited. See entry details online.
      • Belarus – Accessible. Travelers from this list of countries will likely have to self-quarantine. Immunized travelers are exempt from testing and isolation.
      • Belgium – Is only allowing entry for essential travel with an approved vaccine certificate, including the U.S. CDC card. See specific entry details.
      • Bosnia and Herzegovina – U.S. citizens are allowed entry with a negative COVID test, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery.
      • Bulgaria – Effective Sep 12, the U.S. was added to the Red List. Any traveler coming from the U.S. direct to Bulgaria will not be allowed to enter without approval from the Ministry of Health.
      • Croatia – Open for tourism with negative test, vaccine, or proof of recovery. Travelers from Cyprus, Russia, and the UK must have pre-arrival negative Covid-19 test, regardless of vaccine status. Our Universal Aviation offices in Italy are helping coordinate arrangements to enter Croatia for customers.
      • Cyprus – Open. The country is following this traffic light system. See details here.
      • Czech Republic – U.S. was added to the “Dark Red” category. With that, U.S. vaccinated persons can still enter without restriction, but non-vaccinated travelers can only enter for limited essential reasons and will have COVID testing requirements with a 10-day quarantine.
      • Denmark – Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other Green/Yellow/Orange or OECD category countries can enter without testing or quarantine. See detailed entry requirements. (Note: Captcha required to access site.)
      • Estonia – Fully-vaccinated travelers can enter. Testing and quarantine not required with vaccination.
      • Finland – As part of its phased reopening, vaccinated travelers from all countries (including the United States) are now permitted to enter Finland.
      • France – Open for tourism to fully vaccinated non-EU citizens from countries not on the red list. U.S. in now on the Orange list. Vaccinated travelers can enter for any reason. Our blog article has the full details.
        • France is the first EU country to offer a digital health pass for vaccinated non-EU citizens/residents. However, we’re getting reports it’s a slow process to obtain this. We’ve received on the ground intel that most establishments will accept a vaccine card. Read details here.
        • France now requires that passengers on domestic legs provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative PCR test. In addition, crew are required to provide this as of Aug. 30. This does not change active crew health entry requirements for international ops into France; just domestic legs in country.
      • Germany – U.S. travelers are allowed for tourism with either a negative test, proof of vaccination, or recent (6 month) proof of recovery. Quarantine can be bypassed with proof of vaccination or proof of recovery.
      • Greece – Open to U.S. travelers that are vaccinated OR those who have a negative PCR test result taken 72 hours before arrival. PLF form needs to be filled out at least 24 hours prior to arrival. Travel back and forth from the mainland to islands or vice versa requires PCR test or proof of vaccination. Indoor dining requires proof of vaccine or negative COVID test. Our FBO ground support offices in Greece are ready to support you.
      • Greenland – Open with prior permission. Proof of vaccination required for entry.
      • Hungary – U.S. persons can travel to Hungary for essential business. An invitation letter from the receiving party should be submitted in advance for approval. All U.S. passengers approved in for essential business don’t require COVID testing or quarantine.
      • Iceland – Open to travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery. Full details online.
      • Ireland – Our Universal Aviation offices in Dublin and Shannon can assist.
        • Since July 19, fully-vaccinated travelers from the EU, UK, U.S., and other low risk countries are allowed to enter without testing or quarantine. See full details online.
        • Related to above, since July 19, Ireland is participating in the EU’s Digital Green Pass Program, allowing pass holders with proof of vaccination, recovery, or recent test result.
        • This pre-departure testing provider is available at EIDW for travelers headed to the U.S.
        • U.S. CBP Preclearance is open at Shannon/EINN for GA; however, hours have changed again. Read our blog for details and ops procedures.
        • Shannon has an onsite COVID testing program providing quick turnaround. Appointments are required and can be booked online at https://rocdochealthcheck.ie.
      • Italy – Open to U.S. and Canadian citizens for tourism. Open to vaccinated travelers from the UK. Must have the following: 1) proof of vaccination or recovery, AND 2) proof of negative COVID test. Universal Aviation Italy is ready to support your missions.
      • Latvia – Open for leisure. Passengers who have been in the EU, EEA, Switzerland, UK, or U.S. for the past 14 days and have proof of vaccine approved by European Medicines Agency or WHO are exempt from pre-arrival Covid-19 testing and quarantine.
      • Macedonia – Open. Effective Sep 1, all persons arriving in North Macedonia will need to present either a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before entry, proof of full vaccination, or proof of having recovered from COVID-19 within the previous 45 days.
      • Malta – Immunized travelers from the USA, which is on the Red list, will be allowed entry.
      • Moldova – Effective Aug 18, international travelers are required to present proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test result to enter.
      • Montenegro – Open to U.S. citizens. Effective Sep 14, travelers must present vaccination certificate, negative Covid test, or proof of recovery. Aircraft disinfection required.
      • Netherlands – Effective Sep 22, all fully-vaccinated travelers arriving from areas designated very high risk without a COVID-19 variant of concern are exempt from mandatory quarantine, including travelers from the United States. See website for details and consult with us prior to operation.
      • Norway – Open to Green List EU countries without quarantine. We’re expecting to soon hear about plans for easing to the U.S. soon.
      • Poland – Allowed travelers, including U.S. citizens, with an EU-approved vaccine OR proof of recovery are exempt from quarantine. The updated flight ban list can be found online.
      • Portugal – Officially open to tourism, including U.S./Canadian travelers. Travelers from the UK require proof of vaccination or quarantine for 14 days. Note: Effective July 1, Portugal has implemented a new carbon tax for charter ops.
      • Russia – Allowing international travelers from a number of countries, including the U.S. and Mexico. Canadians are still prohibited.
      • Serbia – U.S. citizens can enter for business or tourism. No quarantine required.
      • Slovak Republic – Immunized business travelers with acceptable reason for business can be exempted from quarantine. Travelers from the EU and Schengen region are not required to test or quarantine with proof of vaccine. Travelers from Red countries (including USA) can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test on the fifth day of quarantine.
      • Slovenia – International arrivals must provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test to enter without quarantine. See website for details.
      • Spain – Open to fully-vaccinated U.S. travelers.
      • Sweden – U.S. residents can only enter indirectly via another EU country. Proof of vaccination required. More details here.
      • Switzerland – Open to U.S. and Canadian travelers. Proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative test result required. Quarantine only required for visitors if they have been to any of these countries (note that U.S is NOT on this list) at any time within the last 14 days before entering Switzerland.
      • Turkey – Travelers from high-risk countries (none of which are EU, UK, US, or Canada) must quarantine. Other than the high-risk countries above, Turkey remains open on the Mediterranean to Private/Business flights (including leisure) regardless the country of registration and/or nationality of passenger. Our Universal Aviation office in Turkey can provide assistance.
      • Ukraine – Open to unvaccinated travelers. No quarantine required. Medical insurance and tracer app required. Aircraft disinfection required. Read more online.
      • UK – Accessible. See section below for more details.
    • UK –
      • NEW UK entry requirements – Effective Oct 4 – The UK has simplified its traffic light system into “RED” and “NON-RED”:
        • Vaccinated travelers arriving from non-Red countries – and having not visited a Red country over previous 10 days – will no longer need to present a negative COVID test to enter. A COVID test will still need to be taken on or before day 2 (note: arrival day is considered day 0), but that will transition to the easier lateral flow test by the end of October.
        • Unvaccinated travelers arriving from non-Red countries will need to present proof of a negative COVID test result taken within 72 hours before departure, self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival, and take a COVID test on the second and eighth day of their quarantine period.
        • Only citizens of the UK and Ireland, as well as permanent residents of the UK, will be allowed to enter from Red countries under the new regulations. Regardless of vaccination status, these travelers will need to take a COVID-19 within 72 hours before departure, and quarantine in a government-approved hotel facility for 10 days at their own expense and test on day two and day eight after arrival.
      • RAF Northolt Airport in London has extended its M-F operating hours by three hours to 0800-2000L. This is a big deal because as the closest GA-accessible to central London, as well as the closest airport to Heathrow, these longer hours make it a much better option for international operators. Universal Aviation Northolt worked hard to make this happen.
      • Don’t miss your UK-APD payments – Passenger flights out of the UK are subject to Air Passenger Duty (UK-APD) payments, and many operators forget to pay these within the 7-day deadline. Since we have a local office, we can monitor and manage any payments owed on your behalf. Just send a request to our Global Regulatory Team to get started. It’s a fast and easy setup process.
      • A new emissions reporting scheme now applies as a result of Brexit – UK-ETS. If you need help with your UK-ETS monitoring and reporting, we can make this easy for you. Contact our Global Regulatory team directly.

Updated Thursday, October 25, 2021, 6:30 AM EST

United States

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • U.S. – Minor updates as we approach the Nov 8 date for new relaxed restrictions to be published.
    • The Presidential Proclamations that currently ban travel for non-U.S. nationals who have visited a banned region/country (like Europe) over the preceding 14 days are slated to expire Nov. 8. We’re now waiting for official details to be published. Until then, all restrictions below still apply.
    • On Jan. 12, 2021, the U.S. CDC issued an order requiring proof of a negative viral COVID-19 test (NAAT/PCR or antigen), or medical proof of recovery, for anyone arriving from a foreign country to the U.S. The order went into effect Jan. 26, 2021 for ALL flights, including private flight and GA aircraft. Key points:
      • Only ACTIVE crew members are EXEMPT. You can find the full definition of ACTIVE CREW and some analysis on the various exemption scenarios that we’ve been asked about on our website.
      • Passengers must show aircraft operator proof of negative result, taken with 3 days of boarding, or of recovery prior to boarding.
      • U.S. CDC Approves Home Test for Int’l Arrivals – On May 7, the CDC updated its Order to allow self-administered COVID tests (aka home tests) to qualify for int’l arrivals to the U.S. Note that the CDC has guidance on what home tests will be allowed.
      • Operators of private flights and general aviation must maintain passenger Attestations (i.e., declaration forms) for 2 years. Note: While the operator needs to see the test result, only the Attestations (which can be captured digitally) must be kept on file. We are providing free pre-populated Attestation forms on Universal-managed trips in-bound to the U.S. Ask us for details.
      • The CDC’s website has more information on the order, including the official announcement and FAQs.
      • Note FAA NOTAM reinforcing the CDC order.
    • U.S. Presidential Proclamations remain in place: On April 30, the U.S. travel restrictions were extended to include India. All non-U.S. travelers who have recently been in Brazil, India, South Africa, and most EU countries, including the UK and Ireland, are restricted.
      • CBP has published a bulletin announcing a variety of U.S. visa holders have been granted blanket national interest exceptions to the current entry restrictions on travelers from suspended regions. Note: B1 and B2 visas are not exempt; HOWEVER, read next bullet.
      • The U.S. State Department quietly released a buried update allowing National Interest Waivers (NIWs) to be issued to foreign crew seeking entry to the U.S. for the purposes of training or aircraft pickup, delivery, or maintenance – despite their travel history. Crew must have a B-1/B-2, B-1, or M-1 visa, or Visa Waiver Program authorization to qualify. This is a big one many in the business aviation community have been asking for. We have extensive expertise with NIWs and can assist.
      • All stops in suspended regions, overnight or just tech stops, are treated the same.
      • Entry by any non-U.S. foreign national (that includes Canadian and Mexican citizens) who has been in a suspended region over the past 14 days is HIGHLY RESTRICTED and will be denied, with few exceptions.
    • Expired U.S. Passports for Return Travel – CBP issued this bulletin announcing that U.S. citizens holding a U.S. passport that expired on or after January 1, 2020 may still be able to use their expired U.S. passport for direct return travel to the United States until December 31, 2021.
    • New U.S CBP Documentation Provided for Arrivals – Effective April 26, Part 91 arrivals into the U.S began receiving this new document [PDF] with their landing rights packages at select ports. It basically covers roles and responsibilities for both operator and CBP for int’l arrivals. NO ACTION is needed when you get this. It’s just good-to-know info to have in your back pocket.
    • Applications for signatory carrier status under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are still being processed. All U.S.-based operators (including some international companies with U.S. subsidiaries) and non-U.S. commercial operators are eligible to apply. If you are not a signatory carrier and qualify, we recommend you apply to increase your operating flexibility. We can help.
    • The National Interest Waiver (NIW) is another avenue foreign nationals can seek for entry into the U.S. and can be an effective means of entry. Allowed purposes of visit include Business, Education, Training, and Medical. Application for entry is available for the following U.S. AOEs: KLAX, KEWR, KDFW, KJFK, and KIAH, as well as through the U.S. Embassy in France and the UK. Our Global Regulatory Services team has worked out the repeatable process to apply at each of these and can provide support.
    • On June 29, the U.S. extended the validity for National Interest Exemptions (NIEs) for travelers from China, Iran, Brazil, S. Africa, the Schengen Area, UK, Ireland, and India by 12 months. Details here.
    • The U.S. STEP Program is an important risk mitigation program that U.S. nationals should be using on every international trip, especially now with COVID. When the first wave hit and we saw the massive wave of lockdowns, this program helped get people on the U.S. Embassy’s evacuation list to return home. It has a whole host of other benefits like if you lose your passport or have medical issues, if there is a terrorist incident or civil unrest, etc. Our Global Regulatory Services team offers an optional, turnkey STEP Registration Service for your trips with us.
    • Any operator entering the U.S. from the south should be taking advantage of the CBP’s Border Overflight Exemption (BOE) program to avoid having to make an extra stop at the first designated AOE when returning home. A BOE is good for 2 years, and it greatly increases your operational flexibility. We can take care of this for you.
    • Non-U.S. charter (non-scheduled commercial) operators flying to/from the U.S. with less than 12 flights per year MUST have a DOT Part 375 Ops Permit and/or Special Authorization. We can assist.
    • Advise passengers and crew to continue maintaining a 14-day travel history log of the countries, states, and cities they visit. This is critical for both travel into the U.S., within it, and abroad.
    • Hawaii – Travelers who have been vaccinated in the United States, may enter Hawaii without a negative COVID-19 test. International travelers still require a COVID test at one of Hawaii’s approved testing providers. Additional easing on local restrictions expected as vaccination numbers rise. Be prepared to provide proof of vaccination or a COVID test to enter some establishments depending on which island and county you visit.
      • Oahu now requiring proof of vaccination to enter most indoor establishments. Read online.
      • Maui now requiring proof of vaccination to dine indoors.
    • Puerto Rico – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. See details at www.travelsafe.pr.gov or www.viajaseguro.pr.gov. Proof of negative COVID test required to avoid quarantine. Crew are exempt.
    • USVI – Proof of negative COVID test result required for travelers from the mainland U.S. Visit the USVI Travel Screening Portal and fill out the info requested in advance. Additional information and testing requirements available on https://usviupdate.com/. Our preferred ground handler at TIST, Standard Aviation, has parking availability and can provide air transfers to neighboring Caribbean islands.
    • Alaska – Alaska’s travel mandates and orders are now just travel advisories. Full entry details online.

Canada

  • Effective Sept 7, any foreign national that qualifies for the fully-vaccinated traveler exemption can enter Canada for discretionary travel. Use this self-assessment tool to check if you qualify for the exemption.
  • We’ve confirmed via CANPASS that crew are required to take a PCR test if staying longer than 72 hours.
  • Gander (CYQX) Update: Effective Aug 11, travelers on East bound flights directly departing the U.S. are allowed to disembark during the tech stop if 1) vaccinated, 2) have a negative COVID test, and 3) have completed ArriveCan in advance. This does not apply to West bound flights from Europe or return flights.
  • All travelers are required to provide their COVID-related information, in advance, via ArriveCAN app or website.
  • Canada has this online tool to help you assess if you can enter the country.
  • Airport Funneling in Effect – All international passenger flights, including those from the U.S., are required to enter Canada through one of the following nine funneling airports: CYYZ/Toronto, CYVR/Vancouver, CYUL/Montreal, and CYYC/Calgary, Edmonton/CYEG, Winnipeg/CYWG, Ottawa/CYOW, Quebec/CYQB, Halifax/CYHZ, and Toronto Island (CYTZ). Initial announcement for the first 4 airports. Announcement on the 5 added in August. Toronto Island was just added to the list in Sept., and more are expected soon. Medevac, ferry and crew repatriation flights, cargo-only flights, and tech stops where no passengers disembark are exempt.

Mexico

  • Mexico is open and accessible.
  • Our ground handing teams in Mexico (Mexico City/Toluca, Los Cabos, Cancun, Cozumel, PV, Monterrey, etc.) are available to support your missions.
  • Renew Your Mexico Multiple Entry Permits Now – AFAC’s physical offices remains closed but is processing AOC renewals and modifications, one time permits, blanket permit modifications, and blanket permit verifications remotely/online. Note that AFAC is working under reduced staffing hours, so application processing will take longer than normal. For assistance with your Mexico permits, we can help.
  • Do this now to ensure your permits are approved in time for Jan. 1, as AFAC is working at reduced capacity, and it normally pauses on processing permits mid-Dec through early-Jan. Read our blog article for more on this, and why you should get this permit if you do multiple trips to Mexico a year. We can take care of this for you.
  • There is a no-touch Covid-19 health assessment form, which is required on arrival/departure. After completing the form, print or screen cap the QR code that is generated for easy access. You’ll need to present this to the health inspectors upon arrival into Mexico. Here is the link: https://afac.hostingerapp.com – Note that you need to actually copy/paste it into your browser; just clicking it will throw an error. A 14-day quarantine at residence may be necessary; however, popular tourist zones in the typical vacation cities (e.g., Cancun, Los Cabos, PV, Cozumel) are excluded.
  • The Mexican government has established an epidemiological traffic light monitoring system based on the number of cases and risk of contagion to manage the relaxing of restrictions. The status of it varies from state to state.

Caribbean

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Anguilla – Open. Only open to fully vaccinated travelers. Pre- and on-arrival testing required. Quarantine 24 hours until result is known. If negative, you are free to move about island.
    • Antigua and Barbuda – Fully vaccinated travelers, do not have to quarantine. However, both they AND crew are required to have a proof of a negative COVID test taken prior to arrival. See official website for details.
    • Aruba – Aruba is accepting flights from all U.S. states. Aruba’s Digital Embarkation-Disembarkation Card (ED card) and health insurance are required. Full details on entry requirements can be found here.
    • Bahamas – Open. Rapid antigen test required within 5 days after arrival in the Bahamas by all travelers. This is also required for inter-island travel. No quarantine required. This electronic health visa must be completed. Health insurance is required. More info at the Office of the Prime Minister and Reopen Bahamas.
    • Barbados – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers will only need to quarantine 1 day. Post-arrival testing required, unless coming from a designated “travel bubble” Caribbean island. Quarantine 24 hours until test result is known, after which you are free to move about the island. See details online.
    • Bermuda – Open. Vaccinated travelers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result to enter. They will also l be tested on arrival and must quarantine until results are known (about 24 hours). Then they will be released from quarantine and free to move around.
    • Bonaire – Open to U.S travelers. Even with vaccine, a negative COVD test is still required for entry. Mandatory antigen testing on day 5 after arrival. Must complete a Health Declaration Form at www.bonairepublichealth.org. Quarantine is required unless traveling from “low-risk countries.”.
    • British Virgin Islands (BVI) – Open for tourism. See latest entry requirements, updated Oct. 1.
    • Cayman Islands – Limited tourism began Sept. 9. However, Cayman authorities announced on hold on their border reopening on Sept. 14. Until then, travelers from Canada, EU and the U.S. with securely verifiable vaccination records are allowed entry with 5-day quarantine. See website for more details.
    • Cuba – Certain parts of country are open for tourism. U.S. sanctions still apply. Add’l post-arrival testing required. Quarantine is required with negative PCR test result to exit quarantine on day 7.
    • Curacao – Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and these other countries are permitted to enter Curacao. Add’l post-arrival testing required.
    • Dominica – Open; however, entry requirements, disembarkation, and quarantine protocols vary depending on the country-of-origin’s risk level (CARICOM Travel Bubble, Low Risk, Medium Risk, High Risk) and whether or not travelers are vaccinated. U.S. sits on high risk, but vaccinated travelers who test negative during the post-arrival can proceed quarantine free. COVID test on arrival required for all travelers, regardless of vaccination status. Full details online.
    • Dominican Republic – Open to international passengers. Passengers who present a vaccination card and/or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in the Dominican Republic will be exempted from the random test. Universal Aviation DR is open and supporting missions.
    • Grenada – Open. Apply for approval online. Expect to quarantine. Tracer app required. More information online. Persons providing proof of full vaccination will only be required to quarantine for up to 48 hours, pending a negative result from a PCR test administered upon entry.
    • Guadeloupe – French territory. Open for vaccinated U.S. travelers.
    • Haiti – Open. No quarantine required for vaccinated travelers.
    • Jamaica – Open. All foreign crew and passengers must obtain travel authorization online prior to arrival. COVID-19 PCR or antigen test on arrival for travelers from high-risk countries, like the U.S., at cost of $150 USD. Quarantine required for length of stay or 14 days, in either a residence or tourist zone (“Resilient Corridor”). Fully vaccinated travelers have the option to shorten their mandatory 8-day quarantine by taking an additional (RT-PCR) for COVID-19 on arrival and with a negative result will be released from quarantine. See full details online.
    • Martinique – French territory – Open to vaccinated U.S. travelers for leisure.
    • St. Barts – French territory – Open for vaccinated travelers. Must complete online Health entry form prior to entry.
    • St. Lucia – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers exempt from quarantine. Travel registration and health screening questionnaire to be completed in advance and printed before arrival. Random medical screenings may apply. More info online.
    • St. Kitts & Nevis – Open. All travelers who are fully vaccinated must remain in quarantine for at least four days and take a COVID-19 PCR test on the fourth day to exit quarantine. Health app required. Details online.
    • Sint Maarten (Dutch side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. However, TNCM falls on the Netherlands side. The Netherlands side is enacting stricter restrictions for passengers from “high-risk” countries. Travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter. Check with us for details based on your specific trip scenario.
    • St. Martin (French side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. Vaccinated travelers from Canada and USA will be allowed entry as tourists at St. Martin (French Side).
    • St. Vincent & Grenadines – Fully-vaccinated travelers from high-risk countries (including Canada and U.S.) are required to do pre- and on-arrival testing. 48-hour quarantine required at a government-approved hotel/resort or facility. Testing upon arrival required for crew as well. Aircraft disinfection required. See full details and pre-authorization forms online.
    • Trinidad and Tobago – Fully vaccinated travelers can enter. Apply online in advance.
    • Turks and Caicos – Open to vaccinated travelers. All travelers to the Turks and Caicos are required to obtain a TCI Assure Travel Authorization at least 24 hours prior to boarding. Travel insurance required.
    • USVI and Puerto Rico – See U.S. section above.

Latin America

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Anguilla – Open. Only open to fully vaccinated travelers. Pre- and on-arrival testing required. Quarantine 24 hours until result is known. If negative, you are free to move about island.
    • Antigua and Barbuda – Fully vaccinated travelers, do not have to quarantine. However, both they AND crew are required to have a proof of a negative COVID test taken prior to arrival. See official website for details.
    • Aruba – Aruba is accepting flights from all U.S. states. Aruba’s Digital Embarkation-Disembarkation Card (ED card) and health insurance are required. Full details on entry requirements can be found here.
    • Bahamas – Open. Rapid antigen test required within 5 days after arrival in the Bahamas by all travelers. This is also required for inter-island travel. No quarantine required. This electronic health visa must be completed. Health insurance is required. More info at the Office of the Prime Minister and Reopen Bahamas.
    • Barbados – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers will only need to quarantine 1 day. Post-arrival testing required, unless coming from a designated “travel bubble” Caribbean island. Quarantine 24 hours until test result is known, after which you are free to move about the island. See details online.
    • Bermuda – Open. Vaccinated travelers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result to enter. They will also be tested on arrival and must quarantine until results are known (about 24 hours). Then they will be released from quarantine and free to move around.
    • Bonaire – Open to U.S travelers. Even with vaccine, a negative COVD test is still required for entry. Mandatory antigen testing on day 5 after arrival. Must complete a Health Declaration Form at www.bonairepublichealth.org. Quarantine is required unless traveling from “low-risk countries.”.
    • British Virgin Islands (BVI) – Open for tourism. See latest entry requirements, updated Oct. 1.
    • Cayman Islands – Limited tourism began Sept. 9. Travelers from Canada, EU and the U.S. with securely verifiable vaccination records are allowed entry with 7-day quarantine. See website for more details.
    • Cuba – Certain parts of country are open for tourism. U.S. sanctions still apply. Add’l post-arrival testing required. Quarantine is required with negative PCR test result to exit quarantine on day 7.
    • Curacao – Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and these other countries are permitted to enter Curacao. Add’l post-arrival testing required.
    • Dominica – Open; however, entry requirements, disembarkation, and quarantine protocols vary depending on the country-of-origin’s risk level (CARICOM Travel Bubble, Low Risk, Medium Risk, High Risk) and whether or not travelers are vaccinated. U.S. sits on high risk, but vaccinated travelers who test negative during the post-arrival can proceed quarantine free. COVID test on arrival required for all travelers, regardless of vaccination status. Full details online.
    • Dominican Republic – Open to international passengers. Passengers who present a vaccination card and/or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in the Dominican Republic will be exempted from the random test. Universal Aviation DR is open and supporting missions.
    • Grenada – Open. Apply for approval online. Expect to quarantine. Tracer app required. More information online. Persons providing proof of full vaccination will only be required to quarantine for up to 48 hours, pending a negative result from a PCR test administered upon entry.
    • Guadeloupe – French territory. Open for vaccinated U.S. travelers.
    • Haiti – Open. No quarantine required for vaccinated travelers.
    • Jamaica – Open. All foreign crew and passengers must obtain travel authorization online prior to arrival. COVID-19 PCR or antigen test on arrival for travelers from high-risk countries, like the U.S., at cost of $150 USD. Quarantine required for length of stay or 14 days, in either a residence or tourist zone (“Resilient Corridor”). Fully vaccinated travelers have the option to shorten their mandatory 8-day quarantine by taking an additional (RT-PCR) for COVID-19 on arrival and with a negative result will be released from quarantine. See full details online.
    • Martinique – French territory – Open to vaccinated U.S. travelers for leisure.
    • Montserrat – Open to fully vaccinated travelers, including business travelers. Government pre-approval required.
    • St. Barts – French territory – Open for vaccinated travelers. Must complete online Health entry form prior to entry.
    • St. Lucia – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers exempt from quarantine. Travel registration and health screening questionnaire to be completed in advance and printed before arrival. Random medical screenings may apply. More info online.
    • St. Kitts & Nevis – Open. All travelers who are fully vaccinated must remain in quarantine for at least four days and take a COVID-19 PCR test on the fourth day to exit quarantine. Health app required. Details online.
    • Sint Maarten (Dutch side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. However, TNCM falls on the Netherlands side. The Netherlands side is enacting stricter restrictions for passengers from “high-risk” countries. Travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter. Check with us for details based on your specific trip scenario.
    • St. Martin (French side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. Vaccinated travelers from Canada and USA will be allowed entry as tourists at St. Martin (French Side).
    • St. Vincent & Grenadines – Fully-vaccinated travelers from high-risk countries (including Canada and U.S.) are required to do pre- and on-arrival testing. 48-hour quarantine required at a government-approved hotel/resort or facility. Testing upon arrival required for crew as well. Aircraft disinfection required. See full details and pre-authorization forms online.
    • Trinidad and Tobago – Fully vaccinated travelers can enter. Apply online in advance.
    • Turks and Caicos – Open to vaccinated travelers. All travelers to the Turks and Caicos are required to obtain a TCI Assure Travel Authorization at least 24 hours prior to boarding. Travel insurance required.
    • USVI and Puerto Rico – See U.S. section above.

Europe

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  •  
    • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Ireland, UK, France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey are all open and supporting missions.
    • Reopen Europe has improved its online tool for helping you assess entry requirements into the EU based on your trip scenario.
    • The EU has removed the U.S. from its “safe list” as of August 2021. See details:
      • This is guidance only and non-binding. Each EU member country is following this guidance in its own way. See country-level details below.
      • This has no impact on ops to the UK, as it is no longer an EU member post BREXIT.
    • European countries that are accessible to passengers from the U.S. and other countries not on the EC’s list include:
      • Albania – Open. Health screening upon arrival. Travelers will require one of the following: proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test result.
      • Austria – Open. Immunized U.S. travelers can enter for leisure, without testing or self-isolation. Some nonessential travel is prohibited. See entry details online.
      • Belarus – Accessible. Travelers from this list of countries will likely have to self-quarantine. Immunized travelers are exempt from testing and isolation.
      • Belgium – Is only allowing entry for essential travel with an approved vaccine certificate, including the U.S. CDC card. See specific entry details.
      • Bosnia and Herzegovina – U.S. citizens are allowed entry with a negative COVID test, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery.
      • Bulgaria – Effective Sep 12, the U.S. was added to the Red List. Any traveler coming from the U.S. direct to Bulgaria will not be allowed to enter without approval from the Ministry of Health.
      • Croatia – Open for tourism with negative test, vaccine, or proof of recovery. Travelers from Cyprus, Russia, and the UK must have pre-arrival negative Covid-19 test, regardless of vaccine status. Our Universal Aviation offices in Italy are helping coordinate arrangements to enter Croatia for customers.
      • Cyprus – Open. The country is following this traffic light system. See details here.
      • Czech Republic – U.S. was added to the “Dark Red” category. With that, U.S. vaccinated persons can still enter without restriction, but non-vaccinated travelers can only enter for limited essential reasons and will have COVID testing requirements with a 10-day quarantine.
      • Denmark – Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other Green/Yellow/Orange or OECD category countries can enter without testing or quarantine. See detailed entry requirements. (Note: Captcha required to access site.)
      • Estonia – Fully-vaccinated travelers can enter. Testing and quarantine not required with vaccination.
      • Finland – As part of its phased reopening, vaccinated travelers from all countries (including the United States) are now permitted to enter Finland.
      • France – Open for tourism to fully vaccinated non-EU citizens from countries not on the red list. U.S. in now on the Orange list. Vaccinated travelers can enter for any reason. Our blog article has the full details.
        • France is the first EU country to offer a digital health pass for vaccinated non-EU citizens/residents. However, we’re getting reports it’s a slow process to obtain this. We’ve received on the ground intel that most establishments will accept a vaccine card. Read details here.
        • France now requires that passengers on domestic legs provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative PCR test. In addition, crew are required to provide this as of Aug. 30. This does not change active crew health entry requirements for international ops into France; just domestic legs in country.
      • Germany – U.S. travelers are allowed for tourism with either a negative test, proof of vaccination, or recent (6 month) proof of recovery. Quarantine can be bypassed with proof of vaccination or proof of recovery.
      • Greece – Open to U.S. travelers that are vaccinated OR those who have a negative PCR test result taken 72 hours before arrival. PLF form needs to be filled out at least 24 hours prior to arrival. Travel back and forth from the mainland to islands or vice versa requires PCR test or proof of vaccination. Indoor dining requires proof of vaccine or negative COVID test. Our FBO ground support offices in Greece are ready to support you.
      • Greenland – Open with prior permission. Proof of vaccination required for entry.
      • Hungary – U.S. persons can travel to Hungary for essential business. An invitation letter from the receiving party should be submitted in advance for approval. All U.S. passengers approved in for essential business don’t require COVID testing or quarantine.
      • Iceland – Open to travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery. Full details online.
      • Ireland – Our Universal Aviation offices in Dublin and Shannon can assist.
        • Since July 19, fully-vaccinated travelers from the EU, UK, U.S., and other low risk countries are allowed to enter without testing or quarantine. See full details online.
        • Related to above, since July 19, Ireland is participating in the EU’s Digital Green Pass Program, allowing pass holders with proof of vaccination, recovery, or recent test result.
        • This pre-departure testing provider is available at EIDW for travelers headed to the U.S.
        • U.S. CBP Preclearance is open at Shannon/EINN for GA; however, hours have changed again. Read our blog for details and ops procedures.
        • Shannon has an onsite COVID testing program providing quick turnaround. Appointments are required and can be booked online at https://rocdochealthcheck.ie.
      • Italy – Open to U.S. and Canadian citizens for tourism. Open to vaccinated travelers from the UK. Must have the following: 1) proof of vaccination or recovery, AND 2) proof of negative COVID test. Universal Aviation Italy is ready to support your missions.
      • Latvia – Open for leisure. Passengers who have been in the EU, EEA, Switzerland, UK, or U.S. for the past 14 days and have proof of vaccine approved by European Medicines Agency or WHO are exempt from pre-arrival Covid-19 testing and quarantine.
      • Macedonia – Open. Effective Sep 1, all persons arriving in North Macedonia will need to present either a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before entry, proof of full vaccination, or proof of having recovered from COVID-19 within the previous 45 days.
      • Malta – Immunized travelers from the USA, which is on the Red list, will be allowed entry.
      • Moldova – Effective Aug 18, international travelers are required to present proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test result to enter.
      • Montenegro – Open to U.S. citizens. Effective Sep 14, travelers must present vaccination certificate, negative Covid test, or proof of recovery. Aircraft disinfection required.
      • Netherlands – Effective Sep 22, all fully-vaccinated travelers arriving from areas designated very high risk without a COVID-19 variant of concern are exempt from mandatory quarantine, including travelers from the United States. See website for details and consult with us prior to operation.
      • Norway – Open to Green List EU countries without quarantine. We’re expecting to soon hear about plans for easing to the U.S. soon.
      • Poland – Allowed travelers, including U.S. citizens, with an EU-approved vaccine OR proof of recovery are exempt from quarantine. The updated flight ban list can be found online.
      • Portugal – Officially open to tourism, including U.S./Canadian travelers. Travelers from the UK require proof of vaccination or quarantine for 14 days. Note: Effective July 1, Portugal has implemented a new carbon tax for charter ops.
      • Russia – Allowing international travelers from a number of countries, including the U.S. and Mexico. Canadians are still prohibited.
      • Serbia – U.S. citizens can enter for business or tourism. No quarantine required.
      • Slovak Republic – Immunized business travelers with acceptable reason for business can be exempted from quarantine. Travelers from the EU and Schengen region are not required to test or quarantine with proof of vaccine. Travelers from Red countries (including USA) can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test on the fifth day of quarantine.
      • Slovenia – International arrivals must provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test to enter without quarantine. See website for details.
      • Spain – Open to fully-vaccinated U.S. travelers.
      • Sweden – U.S. residents can only enter indirectly via another EU country. Proof of vaccination required. More details here.
      • Switzerland – Open to U.S. and Canadian travelers. Proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative test result required. Quarantine only required for visitors if they have been to any of these countries (note that U.S is NOT on this list) at any time within the last 14 days before entering Switzerland.
      • Turkey – Travelers from high-risk countries (none of which are EU, UK, US, or Canada) must quarantine. Other than the high-risk countries above, Turkey remains open on the Mediterranean to Private/Business flights (including leisure) regardless the country of registration and/or nationality of passenger. Our Universal Aviation office in Turkey can provide assistance.
      • Ukraine – Open to unvaccinated travelers. No quarantine required. Medical insurance and tracer app required. Aircraft disinfection required. Read more online.
      • UK – Accessible. See section below for more details.
    • UK –
      • NEW UK entry requirements – Effective Oct 4 – The UK has simplified its traffic light system into “RED” and “NON-RED”:
        • Vaccinated travelers arriving from non-Red countries – and having not visited a Red country over previous 10 days – will no longer need to present a negative COVID test to enter. A COVID test will still need to be taken on or before day 2 (note: arrival day is considered day 0), but that will transition to the easier lateral flow test by the end of October.
        • Unvaccinated travelers arriving from non-Red countries will need to present proof of a negative COVID test result taken within 72 hours before departure, self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival, and take a COVID test on the second and eighth day of their quarantine period.
        • Only citizens of the UK and Ireland, as well as permanent residents of the UK, will be allowed to enter from Red countries under the new regulations. Regardless of vaccination status, these travelers will need to take a COVID-19 within 72 hours before departure, and quarantine in a government-approved hotel facility for 10 days at their own expense and test on day two and day eight after arrival.
      • RAF Northolt Airport in London has extended its M-F operating hours by three hours to 0800-2000L. This is a big deal because as the closest GA-accessible to central London, as well as the closest airport to Heathrow, these longer hours make it a much better option for international operators. Universal Aviation Northolt worked hard to make this happen.
      • Don’t miss your UK-APD payments – Passenger flights out of the UK are subject to Air Passenger Duty (UK-APD) payments, and many operators forget to pay these within the 7-day deadline. Since we have a local office, we can monitor and manage any payments owed on your behalf. Just send a request to our Global Regulatory Team to get started. It’s a fast and easy setup process.
      • A new emissions reporting scheme now applies as a result of Brexit – UK-ETS. If you need help with your UK-ETS monitoring and reporting, we can make this easy for you. Contact our Global Regulatory team directly.

Updated Thursday, October 14, 2021, 10:30 AM EST

United States

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • On Sept 20, U.S. authorities announced a tentative end to the Presidential Proclamations that currently ban travel for non-U.S. nationals who have visited a banned region/country (like Europe) over the preceding 14 days. This is just an announcement at this time, and we’re now waiting for something official to be published. Until then, all restrictions below still apply.
    • On Jan. 12, 2021, the U.S. CDC issued an order requiring proof of a negative viral COVID-19 test (NAAT/PCR or antigen), or medical proof of recovery, for anyone arriving from a foreign country to the U.S. The order went into effect Jan. 26, 2021 for ALL flights, including private flight and GA aircraft. Key points:
      • Only ACTIVE crew members are EXEMPT. You can find the full definition of ACTIVE CREW and some analysis on the various exemption scenarios that we’ve been asked about on our website.
      • Passengers must show aircraft operator proof of negative result, taken with 3 days of boarding, or of recovery prior to boarding.
      • U.S. CDC Approves Home Test for Int’l Arrivals – On May 7, the CDC updated its Order to allow self-administered COVID tests (aka home tests) to qualify for int’l arrivals to the U.S. Note that the CDC has guidance on what home tests will be allowed.
      • Operators of private flights and general aviation must maintain passenger Attestations (i.e., declaration forms) for 2 years. Note: While the operator needs to see the test result, only the Attestations (which can be captured digitally) must be kept on file. We are providing free pre-populated Attestation forms on Universal-managed trips in-bound to the U.S. Ask us for details.
      • The CDC’s website has more information on the order, including the official announcement and FAQs.
      • Note FAA NOTAM reinforcing the CDC order.
    • U.S. Presidential Proclamations remain in place: On April 30, the U.S. travel restrictions were extended to include India. All non-U.S. travelers who have recently been in Brazil, India, South Africa, and most EU countries, including the UK and Ireland, are restricted.
      • CBP has published a bulletin announcing a variety of U.S. visa holders have been granted blanket national interest exceptions to the current entry restrictions on travelers from suspended regions. Note: B1 and B2 visas are not exempt; HOWEVER, read next bullet.
      • The U.S. State Department quietly released a buried update allowing National Interest Waivers (NIWs) to be issued to foreign crew seeking entry to the U.S. for the purposes of training or aircraft pickup, delivery, or maintenance – despite their travel history. Crew must have a B-1/B-2, B-1, or M-1 visa, or Visa Waiver Program authorization to qualify. This is a big one many in the business aviation community have been asking for. We have extensive expertise with NIWs and can assist.
      • All stops in suspended regions, overnight or just tech stops, are treated the same.
      • Entry by any non-U.S. foreign national (that includes Canadian and Mexican citizens) who has been in a suspended region over the past 14 days is HIGHLY RESTRICTED and will be denied, with few exceptions.
    • Expired U.S. Passports for Return Travel – CBP issued this bulletin announcing that U.S. citizens holding a U.S. passport that expired on or after January 1, 2020 may still be able to use their expired U.S. passport for direct return travel to the United States until December 31, 2021.
    • New U.S CBP Documentation Provided for Arrivals – Effective April 26, Part 91 arrivals into the U.S began receiving this new document [PDF] with their landing rights packages at select ports. It basically covers roles and responsibilities for both operator and CBP for int’l arrivals. NO ACTION is needed when you get this. It’s just good-to-know info to have in your back pocket.
    • Applications for signatory carrier status under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are still being processed. All U.S.-based operators (including some international companies with U.S. subsidiaries) and non-U.S. commercial operators are eligible to apply. If you are not a signatory carrier and qualify, we recommend you apply to increase your operating flexibility. We can help.
    • The National Interest Waiver (NIW) is another avenue foreign nationals can seek for entry into the U.S. and can be an effective means of entry. Allowed purposes of visit include Business, Education, Training, and Medical. Application for entry is available for the following U.S. AOEs: KLAX, KEWR, KDFW, KJFK, and KIAH, as well as through the U.S. Embassy in France and the UK. Our Global Regulatory Services team has worked out the repeatable process to apply at each of these and can provide support.
    • On June 29, the U.S. extended the validity for National Interest Exemptions (NIEs) for travelers from China, Iran, Brazil, S. Africa, the Schengen Area, UK, Ireland, and India by 12 months. Details here.
    • The U.S. STEP Program is an important risk mitigation program that U.S. nationals should be using on every international trip, especially now with COVID. When the first wave hit and we saw the massive wave of lockdowns, this program helped get people on the U.S. Embassy’s evacuation list to return home. It has a whole host of other benefits like if you lose your passport or have medical issues, if there is a terrorist incident or civil unrest, etc. Our Global Regulatory Services team offers an optional, turnkey STEP Registration Service for your trips with us.
    • Any operator entering the U.S. from the south should be taking advantage of the CBP’s Border Overflight Exemption (BOE) program to avoid having to make an extra stop at the first designated AOE when returning home. A BOE is good for 2 years, and it greatly increases your operational flexibility. We can take care of this for you.
    • Non-U.S. charter (non-scheduled commercial) operators flying to/from the U.S. with less than 12 flights per year MUST have a DOT Part 375 Ops Permit and/or Special Authorization. We can assist.
    • Advise passengers and crew to continue maintaining a 14-day travel history log of the countries, states, and cities they visit. This is critical for both travel into the U.S., within it, and abroad.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Oct. 21, 2021. Note: This does not apply to air travel.
    • Hawaii – Travelers who have been vaccinated in the United States, may enter Hawaii without a negative COVID-19 test. International travelers still require a COVID test at one of Hawaii’s approved testing providers. Additional easing on local restrictions expected as vaccination numbers rise. Be prepared to provide proof of vaccination or a COVID test to enter some establishments depending on which island and county you visit.
      • Oahu now requiring proof of vaccination to enter most indoor establishments. Read online.
    • Puerto Rico – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. See details at www.travelsafe.pr.gov or www.viajaseguro.pr.gov. Proof of negative COVID test required to avoid quarantine. Crew are exempt.
    • USVI – Proof of negative COVID test result required for travelers from the mainland U.S. Visit the USVI Travel Screening Portal and fill out the info requested in advance. Additional information and testing requirements available on https://usviupdate.com/. Our preferred ground handler at TIST, Standard Aviation, has parking availability and can provide air transfers to neighboring Caribbean islands.
    • Alaska – Alaska’s travel mandates and orders are now just travel advisories. Full entry details online.

Canada

  • Effective Sept 7, any foreign national that qualifies for the fully-vaccinated traveler exemption can enter Canada for discretionary travel. Use this self-assessment tool to check if you qualify for the exemption.
  • We’ve confirmed via CANPASS that crew are required to take a PCR test if staying longer than 72 hours.
  • Gander (CYQX) Update: Effective Aug 11, travelers on East bound flights directly departing the U.S. are allowed to disembark during the tech stop if 1) vaccinated, 2) have a negative COVID test, and 3) have completed ArriveCan in advance. This does not apply to West bound flights from Europe or return flights.
  • All travelers are required to provide their COVID-related information, in advance, via ArriveCAN app or website.
  • Canada has this online tool to help you assess if you can enter the country.
  • Airport Funneling in Effect – All international passenger flights, including those from the U.S., are required to enter Canada through one of the following nine funneling airports: CYYZ/Toronto, CYVR/Vancouver, CYUL/Montreal, and CYYC/Calgary, Edmonton/CYEG, Winnipeg/CYWG, Ottawa/CYOW, Quebec/CYQB, Halifax/CYHZ, and Toronto Island (CYTZ). Initial announcement for the first 4 airports. Announcement on the 5 added in August. Toronto Island was just added to the list in Sept., and more are expected soon. Medevac, ferry and crew repatriation flights, cargo-only flights, and tech stops where no passengers disembark are exempt.
  • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Oct. 21, 2021. Note: This does not apply to air travel.

Mexico

  • Mexico is open and accessible. Popular tourist destinations like Los Cabos, Cozumel, PV, and Cancun are active with flights.
  • Our ground handing teams in Mexico (Mexico City/Toluca, Los Cabos, Cancun, Cozumel, PV, Monterrey, etc.) are available to support your missions.
  • AFAC remains closed but is processing AOC renewals and modifications, one time permits, blanket permit modifications, and blanket permit verifications remotely/online. Note that AFAC is working under reduced staffing hours, so application processing will take longer than normal. For assistance with your Mexico permits, we can help.
  • There is a no-touch Covid-19 health assessment form, which is required on arrival/departure. After completing the form, print or screen cap the QR code that is generated for easy access. You’ll need to present this to the health inspectors upon arrival into Mexico. Here is the link: https://afac.hostingerapp.com – Note that you need to actually copy/paste it into your browser; just clicking it will throw an error. A 14-day quarantine at residence may be necessary; however, popular tourist zones in the typical vacation cities (e.g., Cancun, Los Cabos, PV, Cozumel) are excluded.
  • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Oct. 21, 2021. Note: This does not apply to air travel.
  • The Mexican government has established an epidemiological traffic light monitoring system based on the number of cases and risk of contagion to manage the relaxing of restrictions. The status of it varies from state to state.

Caribbean

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Anguilla – Open. Only open to fully vaccinated travelers. Pre- and on-arrival testing required. Quarantine 24 hours until result is known. If negative, you are free to move about island.
    • Antigua and Barbuda – Fully vaccinated travelers, do not have to quarantine. However, both they AND crew are required to have a proof of a negative COVID test taken prior to arrival. See official website for details.
    • Aruba – Aruba is accepting flights from all U.S. states. Aruba’s Digital Embarkation-Disembarkation Card (ED card) and health insurance are required. Full details on entry requirements can be found here.
    • Bahamas – Open. Rapid antigen test required within 5 days after arrival in the Bahamas by all travelers. This is also required for inter-island travel. No quarantine required. This electronic health visa must be completed. Health insurance is required. More info at the Office of the Prime Minister and Reopen Bahamas.
    • Barbados – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers will only need to quarantine 1 day. Post-arrival testing required, unless coming from a designated “travel bubble” Caribbean island. Quarantine 24 hours until test result is known, after which you are free to move about the island. See details online.
    • Bermuda – Open. Vaccinated travelers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result to enter. They will also l be tested on arrival and must quarantine until results are known (about 24 hours). Then they will be released from quarantine and free to move around.
    • Bonaire – Open to U.S travelers. Even with vaccine, a negative COVD test is still required for entry. Mandatory antigen testing on day 5 after arrival. Must complete a Health Declaration Form at www.bonairepublichealth.org. Quarantine is required unless traveling from “low-risk countries.”.
    • British Virgin Islands (BVI) – Open for tourism. See latest entry requirements, updated Oct. 1.
    • Cayman Islands – Limited tourism began Sept. 9. However, Cayman authorities announced on hold on their border reopening on Sept. 14. Until then, travelers from Canada, EU and the U.S. with securely verifiable vaccination records are allowed entry with 5-day quarantine. See website for more details.
    • Cuba – Certain parts of country are open for tourism. U.S. sanctions still apply. Add’l post-arrival testing required. Quarantine is required with negative PCR test result to exit quarantine on day 7.
    • Curacao – Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and these other countries are permitted to enter Curacao. Add’l post-arrival testing required.
    • Dominica – Open; however, entry requirements, disembarkation, and quarantine protocols vary depending on the country-of-origin’s risk level (CARICOM Travel Bubble, Low Risk, Medium Risk, High Risk) and whether or not travelers are vaccinated. U.S. sits on high risk, but vaccinated travelers who test negative during the post-arrival can proceed quarantine free. COVID test on arrival required for all travelers, regardless of vaccination status. Full details online.
    • Dominican Republic – Open to international passengers. Passengers who present a vaccination card and/or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in the Dominican Republic will be exempted from the random test. Universal Aviation DR is open and supporting missions.
    • Grenada – Open. Apply for approval online. Expect to quarantine. Tracer app required. More information online. Persons providing proof of full vaccination will only be required to quarantine for up to 48 hours, pending a negative result from a PCR test administered upon entry.
    • Guadeloupe – French territory. Open for vaccinated U.S. travelers.
    • Haiti – Open. No quarantine required for vaccinated travelers.
    • Jamaica – Open. All foreign crew and passengers must obtain travel authorization online prior to arrival. COVID-19 PCR or antigen test on arrival for travelers from high-risk countries, like the U.S., at cost of $150 USD. Quarantine required for length of stay or 14 days, in either a residence or tourist zone (“Resilient Corridor”). Fully vaccinated travelers have the option to shorten their mandatory 8-day quarantine by taking an additional (RT-PCR) for COVID-19 on arrival and with a negative result will be released from quarantine. See full details online.
    • Martinique – French territory – Open to vaccinated U.S. travelers for leisure.
    • St. Barts – French territory – Open for vaccinated travelers. Must complete online Health entry form prior to entry.
    • St. Lucia – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers exempt from quarantine. Travel registration and health screening questionnaire to be completed in advance and printed before arrival. Random medical screenings may apply. More info online.
    • St. Kitts & Nevis – Open. All travelers who are fully vaccinated must remain in quarantine for at least four days and take a COVID-19 PCR test on the fourth day to exit quarantine. Health app required. Details online.
    • Sint Maarten (Dutch side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. However, TNCM falls on the Netherlands side. The Netherlands side is enacting stricter restrictions for passengers from “high-risk” countries. Travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter. Check with us for details based on your specific trip scenario.
    • St. Martin (French side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. Vaccinated travelers from Canada and USA will be allowed entry as tourists at St. Martin (French Side).
    • St. Vincent & Grenadines – Fully-vaccinated travelers from high-risk countries (including Canada and U.S.) are required to do pre- and on-arrival testing. 48-hour quarantine required at a government-approved hotel/resort or facility. Testing upon arrival required for crew as well. Aircraft disinfection required. See full details and pre-authorization forms online.
    • Trinidad and Tobago – Fully vaccinated travelers can enter. Apply online in advance.
    • Turks and Caicos – Open to vaccinated travelers. All travelers to the Turks and Caicos are required to obtain a TCI Assure Travel Authorization at least 24 hours prior to boarding. Travel insurance required.
    • USVI and Puerto Rico – See U.S. section above.

Latin America

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Venezuela are still operational and supporting missions.
    • Argentina – the country announced that it will allow all foreign visitors to enter for any purpose (including leisure) starting Nov. 1. No quarantine if vaccinated. Universal Aviation Argentina can assist. Until then, can only enter with special authorization by the government.
    • Belize – Vaccinated travelers allowed.
    • Brazil – COVID test and health entry form for both crew and passengers. Crew are not exempt. Universal Aviation Brazil is following our C19 Health and Safety standards to support you safely.
    • Bolivia – U.S. passengers allowed entry for business. Travel health insurance required.
    • Chile – As of Oct 1, vaccinated foreign passengers are allowed and can enter only at SCDA, SCFA, and SCEL airports. Requirements for entry are proof of vaccination, PCR test, health affidavit, travel medical insurance and 5-day quarantine. Universal Aviation Chile is staying on top of the latest.
    • Colombia – International passengers are allowed to arrive in Colombia. CHECK MIG form required on the Colombian Immigration website. SKBO, SKCG, SKRG, and SKCL are open to accept flights from the U.S., Ecuador, Mexico, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Curacao, and Panama.
    • Costa Rica – Open. No quarantine is required. All passengers and crew must have travel insurance, unless fully vaccinated, and complete this health form in advance.
    • Ecuador – Open. Health form required. For mainland airports, no test required with proof of both vaccine doses. Galapagos airports SEGS and SEST still require a test.
    • El Salvador – Open. No quarantine.
    • Falkland Islands – Business flights require special invitation letter. Quarantine and periodic COVID testing required, no exemptions. Leisure flights possible if transiting direct to a private vessel. Contact locator form required. Adequate aeromedical insurance is recommended.
    • Guatemala – Open. Health screening on arrival.
    • Guyana – Open. No quarantine.
    • Honduras – Open for business flights. Quarantine not required with proof of vaccination.
    • Nicaragua – Open. No quarantine. Local contact, aircraft sanitization certificate, and traveler declaration form required.
    • Panama – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers can bypass quarantine. Must complete an online registration form.
    • Paraguay – Paraguay is open for flights. Proof of Medical insurance required. Health card required. With proof of vaccination, quarantine not required.
    • Peru – Reopened for international flights with the exception of those who have been on Brazil, South Africa, or India in the past 14 days.
    • Suriname – Flights require government approval. Health insurance and quarantine required. Aircraft Disinfection Required.
    • Uruguay – Foreign non-residents can enter with special authorization issued by the government and a valid reason to travel. Vaccinated passengers will be exempt from quarantine. Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage is required.
    • Venezuela – Accessible with approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Quarantine at government facility required, up to 14 days. Aircraft Disinfection is required.

Europe

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Ireland, UK, France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey are all open and supporting missions.
    • Reopen Europe has improved its online tool for helping you assess entry requirements into the EU based on your trip scenario.
    • The EU has removed the U.S. from its “safe list” as of August 2021. See details:
      • This is guidance only and non-binding. Each EU member country is following this guidance in its own way. See country-level details below.
      • This has no impact on ops to the UK, as it is no longer an EU member post BREXIT.
    • European countries that are accessible to passengers from the U.S. and other countries not on the EC’s list include:
      • Albania – Open. Health screening upon arrival. Travelers will require one of the following: proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test result.
      • Austria – Open. Immunized U.S. travelers can enter for leisure, without testing or self-isolation. Some nonessential travel is prohibited. See entry details online.
      • Belarus – Accessible. Travelers from this list of countries will likely have to self-quarantine. Immunized travelers are exempt from testing and isolation.
      • Belgium – Is only allowing entry for essential travel with an approved vaccine certificate, including the U.S. CDC card. See specific entry details.
      • Bosnia and Herzegovina – U.S. citizens are allowed entry with a negative COVID test, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery.
      • Bulgaria – Effective Sep 12, the U.S. was added to the Red List. Any traveler coming from the U.S. direct to Bulgaria will not be allowed to enter without approval from the Ministry of Health.
      • Croatia – Open for tourism with negative test, vaccine, or proof of recovery. Travelers from Cyprus, Russia, and the UK must have pre-arrival negative Covid-19 test, regardless of vaccine status. Our Universal Aviation offices in Italy are helping coordinate arrangements to enter Croatia for customers.
      • Cyprus – Open. The country is following this traffic light system. See details here.
      • Czech Republic – U.S. was added to the “Dark Red” category. With that, U.S. vaccinated persons can still enter without restriction, but non-vaccinated travelers can only enter for limited essential reasons and will have COVID testing requirements with a 10-day quarantine.
      • Denmark – Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other Green/Yellow/Orange or OECD category countries can enter without testing or quarantine. See detailed entry requirements. (Note: Captcha required to access site.)
      • Estonia – Fully-vaccinated travelers can enter. Testing and quarantine not required with vaccination.
      • Finland – As part of its phased reopening, vaccinated travelers from all countries (including the United States) are now permitted to enter Finland.
      • France – Open for tourism to fully vaccinated non-EU citizens from countries not on the red list. U.S. in now on the Orange list. Vaccinated travelers can enter for any reason. Our blog article has the full details.
        • France is the first EU country to offer a digital health pass for vaccinated non-EU citizens/residents. However, we’re getting reports it’s a slow process to obtain this. We’ve received on the ground intel that most establishments will accept a vaccine card. Read details here.
        • France now requires that passengers on domestic legs provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative PCR test. In addition, crew are required to provide this as of Aug. 30. This does not change active crew health entry requirements for international ops into France; just domestic legs in country.
      • Germany – U.S. travelers are allowed for tourism with either a negative test, proof of vaccination, or recent (6 month) proof of recovery. Quarantine can be bypassed with proof of vaccination or proof of recovery.
      • Greece – Open to U.S. travelers that are vaccinated OR those who have a negative PCR test result taken 72 hours before arrival. PLF form needs to be filled out at least 24 hours prior to arrival. Travel back and forth from the mainland to islands or vice versa requires PCR test or proof of vaccination. Indoor dining requires proof of vaccine or negative COVID test. Our FBO ground support offices in Greece are ready to support you.
      • Greenland – Open with prior permission. Proof of vaccination required for entry.
      • Hungary – U.S. persons can travel to Hungary for essential business. An invitation letter from the receiving party should be submitted in advance for approval. All U.S. passengers approved in for essential business don’t require COVID testing or quarantine.
      • Iceland – Open to travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery. Full details online.
      • Ireland – Our Universal Aviation offices in Dublin and Shannon can assist.
        • Since July 19, fully-vaccinated travelers from the EU, UK, U.S., and other low risk countries are allowed to enter without testing or quarantine. See full details online.
        • Related to above, since July 19, Ireland is participating in the EU’s Digital Green Pass Program, allowing pass holders with proof of vaccination, recovery, or recent test result.
        • This pre-departure testing provider is available at EIDW for travelers headed to the U.S.
        • U.S. CBP Preclearance is open at Shannon/EINN for GA; however, hours have changed again. Read our blog for details and ops procedures.
        • Shannon has an onsite COVID testing program providing quick turnaround. Appointments are required and can be booked online at https://rocdochealthcheck.ie.
      • Italy – Open to U.S. and Canadian citizens for tourism. Open to vaccinated travelers from the UK. Must have the following: 1) proof of vaccination or recovery, AND 2) proof of negative COVID test. Universal Aviation Italy is ready to support your missions.
      • Latvia – Open for leisure. Passengers who have been in the EU, EEA, Switzerland, UK, or U.S. for the past 14 days and have proof of vaccine approved by European Medicines Agency or WHO are exempt from pre-arrival Covid-19 testing and quarantine.
      • Macedonia – Open. Effective Sep 1, all persons arriving in North Macedonia will need to present either a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before entry, proof of full vaccination, or proof of having recovered from COVID-19 within the previous 45 days.
      • Malta – Immunized travelers from the USA, which is on the Red list, will be allowed entry.
      • Moldova – Effective Aug 18, international travelers are required to present proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test result to enter.
      • Montenegro – Open to U.S. citizens. Effective Sep 14, travelers must present vaccination certificate, negative Covid test, or proof of recovery. Aircraft disinfection required.
      • Netherlands – As of Sept 4, the U.S. has been designated on the very high-risk list. U.S. travelers will only be able enter the Netherlands if they are fully vaccinated or one of the other exemption categories for the EU entry ban. 10-day self-isolation required. See website for details and consult with us prior to operation.
      • Norway – Open to Green List EU countries without quarantine. We’re expecting to soon hear about plans for easing to the U.S. soon.
      • Poland – Allowed travelers, including U.S. citizens, with an EU-approved vaccine OR proof of recovery are exempt from quarantine. The updated flight ban list can be found online.
      • Portugal – Officially open to tourism, including U.S./Canadian travelers. Travelers from the UK require proof of vaccination or quarantine for 14 days. Note: Effective July 1, Portugal has implemented a new carbon tax for charter ops.
      • Russia – Allowing international travelers from a number of countries, including the U.S. and Mexico. Canadians are still prohibited.
      • Serbia – U.S. citizens can enter for business or tourism. No quarantine required.
      • Slovak Republic – Immunized business travelers with acceptable reason for business can be exempted from quarantine. Travelers from the EU and Schengen region are not required to test or quarantine with proof of vaccine. Travelers from Red countries (including USA) can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test on the fifth day of quarantine.
      • Slovenia – International arrivals must provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test to enter without quarantine. See website for details.
      • Spain – Open to fully-vaccinated U.S. travelers.
      • Sweden – U.S. residents can only enter indirectly via another EU country. Proof of vaccination required. More details here.
      • Switzerland – Open to U.S. and Canadian travelers. Proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative test result required. Quarantine only required for visitors if they have been to any of these countries (note that U.S is NOT on this list) at any time within the last 14 days before entering Switzerland.
      • Turkey – Travelers from high-risk countries (none of which are EU, UK, US, or Canada) must quarantine. Other than the high-risk countries above, Turkey remains open on the Mediterranean to Private/Business flights (including leisure) regardless the country of registration and/or nationality of passenger. Our Universal Aviation office in Turkey can provide assistance.
      • Ukraine – Open to unvaccinated travelers. No quarantine required. Medical insurance and tracer app required. Aircraft disinfection required. Read more online.
      • UK – Accessible. See section below for more details.
    • UK –
      • NEW UK entry requirements – Effective Oct 4 – The UK has simplified its traffic light system into “RED” and “NON-RED”:
        • Vaccinated travelers arriving from non-Red countries – and having not visited a Red country over previous 10 days – will no longer need to present a negative COVID test to enter. A COVID test will still need to be taken on or before day 2 (note: arrival day is considered day 0), but that will transition to the easier lateral flow test by the end of October.
        • Unvaccinated travelers arriving from non-Red countries will need to present proof of a negative COVID test result taken within 72 hours before departure, self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival, and take a COVID test on the second and eighth day of their quarantine period.
        • Only citizens of the UK and Ireland, as well as permanent residents of the UK, will be allowed to enter from Red countries under the new regulations. Regardless of vaccination status, these travelers will need to take a COVID-19 within 72 hours before departure, and quarantine in a government-approved hotel facility for 10 days at their own expense and test on day two and day eight after arrival.
      • RAF Northolt Airport in London has extended its M-F operating hours by three hours to 0800-2000L. This is a big deal because as the closest GA-accessible to central London, as well as the closest airport to Heathrow, these longer hours make it a much better option for international operators. Universal Aviation Northolt worked hard to make this happen.
      • Don’t miss your UK-APD payments – Passenger flights out of the UK are subject to Air Passenger Duty (UK-APD) payments, and many operators forget to pay these within the 7-day deadline. Since we have a local office, we can monitor and manage any payments owed on your behalf. Just send a request to our Global Regulatory Team to get started. It’s a fast and easy setup process.
      • A new emissions reporting scheme now applies as a result of Brexit – UK-ETS. If you need help with your UK-ETS monitoring and reporting, we can make this easy for you. Contact our Global Regulatory team directly.

Updated Monday, September 27, 2021, 8:30 AM EST

United States

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • U.S. –
    • On Sept 20, U.S. authorities announced a tentative end to the Presidential Proclamations that currently ban travel for non-U.S. nationals who have visited a banned region/country (like Europe) over the preceding 14 days. This is just an announcement at this time, and we’re now waiting for something official to be published. Until then, all restrictions below still apply.
    • On Jan. 12, 2021, the U.S. CDC issued an order requiring proof of a negative viral COVID-19 test (NAAT/PCR or antigen), or medical proof of recovery, for anyone arriving from a foreign country to the U.S. The order went into effect Jan. 26, 2021 for ALL flights, including private flight and GA aircraft. Key points:
      • Only ACTIVE crew members are EXEMPT. You can find the full definition of ACTIVE CREW and some analysis on the various exemption scenarios that we’ve been asked about on our website.
      • Passengers must show aircraft operator proof of negative result, taken with 3 days of boarding, or of recovery prior to boarding.
      • U.S. CDC Approves Home Test for Int’l Arrivals – On May 7, the CDC updated its Order to allow self-administered COVID tests (aka home tests) to qualify for int’l arrivals to the U.S. Note that the CDC has guidance on what home tests will be allowed.
      • Operators of private flights and general aviation must maintain passenger Attestations (i.e., declaration forms) for 2 years. Note: While the operator needs to see the test result, only the Attestations (which can be captured digitally) must be kept on file. We are providing free pre-populated Attestation forms on Universal-managed trips in-bound to the U.S. Ask us for details.
      • The CDC’s website has more information on the order, including the official announcement and FAQs.
      • Note FAA NOTAM reinforcing the CDC order.
    • U.S. Presidential Proclamations remain in place: On April 30, the U.S. travel restrictions were extended to include India. All non-U.S. travelers who have recently been in Brazil, India, South Africa, and most EU countries, including the UK and Ireland, are restricted.
      • CBP has published a bulletin announcing a variety of U.S. visa holders have been granted blanket national interest exceptions to the current entry restrictions on travelers from suspended regions. Note: B1 and B2 visas are not exempt; HOWEVER, read next bullet.
      • The U.S. State Department quietly released a buried update allowing National Interest Waivers (NIWs) to be issued to foreign crew seeking entry to the U.S. for the purposes of training or aircraft pickup, delivery, or maintenance – despite their travel history. Crew must have a B-1/B-2, B-1, or M-1 visa, or Visa Waiver Program authorization to qualify. This is a big one many in the business aviation community have been asking for. We have extensive expertise with NIWs and can assist.
      • All stops in suspended regions, overnight or just tech stops, are treated the same.
      • Entry by any non-U.S. foreign national (that includes Canadian and Mexican citizens) who has been in a suspended region over the past 14 days is HIGHLY RESTRICTED and will be denied, with few exceptions.
    • Expired U.S. Passports for Return Travel – CBP issued this bulletin announcing that U.S. citizens holding a U.S. passport that expired on or after January 1, 2020 may still be able to use their expired U.S. passport for direct return travel to the United States until December 31, 2021.
    • New U.S CBP Documentation Provided for Arrivals – Effective April 26, Part 91 arrivals into the U.S will begin receiving this new document [PDF] with their landing rights packages at select ports. It basically covers roles and responsibilities for both operator and CBP for int’l arrivals. NO ACTION is needed when you get this. It’s just good-to-know info to have in your back pocket.
    • U.S. APIS Update: All GA travelers are now required to provide additional details, including primary phone number and email address, for contact tracing purposes when coming from Guinea or the DROC in response to Ebola. Scheduled airlines have already been doing this. Airport funneling from these destinations is also in effect. While these destinations aren’t the most popular for GA travel, it’s not unlikely that we could see the APIS data collection portion of this requirement expanded to cover arrivals from more countries (e.g., for contact tracing other diseases). Note that Private and Charter flights will have different processes for complying with this based on how APIS information is currently transmitted for each of these two flight types. Read more about this on our blog.
    • Applications for signatory carrier status under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are still being processed. All U.S.-based operators (including some international companies with U.S. subsidiaries) and non-U.S. commercial operators are eligible to apply. If you are not a signatory carrier and qualify, we recommend you apply to increase your operating flexibility. We can help.
    • The National Interest Waiver (NIW) is another avenue foreign nationals can seek for entry into the U.S. and can be an effective means of entry. Allowed purposes of visit include Business, Education, Training, and Medical. Application for entry is available for the following U.S. AOEs: KLAX, KEWR, KDFW, KJFK, and KIAH, as well as through the U.S. Embassy in France and the UK. Our Global Regulatory Services team has worked out the repeatable process to apply at each of these and can provide support.
    • On June 29, the U.S. extended the validity for National Interest Exemptions (NIEs) for travelers from China, Iran, Brazil, S. Africa, the Schengen Area, UK, Ireland, and India by 12 months. Details here.
    • The U.S. STEP Program is an important risk mitigation program that U.S. nationals should be using on every international trip, especially now with COVID. When the first wave hit and we saw the massive wave of lockdowns, this program helped get people on the U.S. Embassy’s evacuation list to return home. It has a whole host of other benefits like if you lose your passport or have medical issues, if there is a terrorist incident or civil unrest, etc. Our Global Regulatory Services team offers an optional, turnkey STEP Registration Service for your trips with us.
    • Any operator entering the U.S. from the south should be taking advantage of the CBP’s Border Overflight Exemption (BOE) program to avoid having to make an extra stop at the first designated AOE when returning home. A BOE is good for 2 years, and it greatly increases your operational flexibility. We can take care of this for you.
    • Non-U.S. charter (non-scheduled commercial) operators flying to/from the U.S. with less than 12 flights per year MUST have a DOT Part 375 Ops Permit and/or Special Authorization. We can assist.
    • Advise passengers and crew to continue maintaining a 14-day travel history log of the countries, states, and cities they visit. This is critical for both travel into the U.S., within it, and abroad.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.
    • Hawaii – Travelers who have been vaccinated in the United States, may enter Hawaii without a negative COVID-19 test. International travelers still require a COVID test at one of Hawaii’s approved testing providers. Additional easing on local restrictions expected as vaccination numbers rise.
    • Puerto Rico – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. See details at www.travelsafe.pr.gov or www.viajaseguro.pr.gov. Proof of negative COVID test required to avoid quarantine. Crew are exempt.
    • USVI – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. Visit the USVI Travel Screening Portal and fill out the info requested in advance. Additional information and testing requirements available on https://usviupdate.com/. Our preferred ground handler at TIST, Standard Aviation, has parking availability and can provide air transfers to neighboring Caribbean islands.
    • Alaska – Alaska’s travel mandates and orders are now just travel advisories. Full entry details online.

Canada 

  • Effective August 9, fully-vaccinated U.S. citizens and residents can enter with proof of a negative COVID test, without having to quarantine. Read details here.
  • Effective Sept 7, any foreign national that qualifies for the fully-vaccinated traveler exemption can enter Canada for discretionary travel. Use this self-assessment tool to check if you qualify for the exemption.
  • We’ve confirmed via CANPASS that crew are required to take a PCR test if staying longer than 72 hours.
  • Gander (CYQX) Update: Effective Aug 11, travelers on East bound flights directly departing the U.S. are allowed to disembark during the tech stop if 1) vaccinated, 2) have a negative COVID test, and 3) have completed ArriveCan in advance. This does not apply to West bound flights from Europe or return flights.
  • All travelers are required to provide their COVID-related information, in advance, via ArriveCAN app or website.
  • Canada has this online tool to help you assess if you can enter the country.
  • Airport Funneling in Effect – All international passenger flights, including those from the U.S., are required to enter Canada through one of the following nine funneling airports: CYYZ/Toronto, CYVR/Vancouver, CYUL/Montreal, and CYYC/Calgary, Edmonton/CYEG, Winnipeg/CYWG, Ottawa/CYOW, Quebec/CYQB, Halifax/CYHZ, and Toronto Island (CYTZ). Initial announcement for the first 4 airports. Announcement on the 5 added in August. Toronto Island was just added to the list in Sept., and more are expected soon. Medevac, ferry and crew repatriation flights, cargo-only flights, and tech stops where no passengers disembark are exempt.
  • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Oct. 21, 2021. Note: This does not apply to air travel.

Mexico

  • Mexico – No major updates.
    • Mexico is open and accessible. Popular tourist destinations like Los Cabos, Cozumel, PV, and Cancun are active with flights.
    • Our ground handing teams in Mexico (Mexico City/Toluca, Los Cabos, Cancun, Cozumel, PV, Monterrey, etc.) are available to support your missions.
    • AFAC remains closed but is processing AOC renewals and modifications, one time permits, blanket permit modifications, and blanket permit verifications remotely/online. Note that AFAC is working under reduced staffing hours, so application processing will take longer than normal. For assistance with your Mexico permits, we can help.
    • There is a no-touch Covid-19 health assessment form, which is required on arrival/departure. After completing the form, print or screen cap the QR code that is generated for easy access. You’ll need to present this to the health inspectors upon arrival into Mexico. Here is the link: https://afac.hostingerapp.com – Note that you need to actually copy/paste it into your browser; just clicking it will throw an error. A 14-day quarantine at residence may be necessary; however, popular tourist zones in the typical vacation cities (e.g., Cancun, Los Cabos, PV, Cozumel) are excluded.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Oct. 21, 2021. Note: This does not apply to air travel.
    • The Mexican government has established an epidemiological traffic light monitoring system based on the number of cases and risk of contagion to manage the relaxing of restrictions. The status of it varies from state to state.

Caribbean

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Anguilla – Open. Only open to fully vaccinated travelers. Pre- and on-arrival testing required. Quarantine 24 hours until result is known. If negative, you are free to move about island.
    • Antigua and Barbuda – Fully vaccinated tourist \ travelers, do not have to quarantine. However, both they AND crew are required to have a proof of a negative COVID test taken prior to arrival. See official website for details.
    • Aruba – Aruba is accepting flights from all U.S. states. The pre-arrival COVID test requirement has been reinstated for vaccinated travelers. Aruba’s Digital Embarkation-Disembarkation Card (ED card) and health insurance are required.
    • Bahamas – Open. FULLY-VACCINATED TRAVELERS are no longer exempt from the requirement to provide a negative PCR test prior to arrival; testing required prior to arrival for ALL travelers. Rapid antigen test required within 5 days after arrival in the Bahamas by all travelers. This is also required for inter-island travel. No quarantine required. This electronic health visa must be completed. Health insurance is required. More info at the Office of the Prime Minister and Reopen Bahamas.
    • Barbados – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers will only need to quarantine 1 day. Pre- and on-arrival testing required, unless coming from a designated “travel bubble” Caribbean island. Quarantine 24 hours until test result is known, after which you are free to move about the island. See details online.
    • Bermuda – Open. Vaccinated travelers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result to enter. They will also l be tested on arrival and must quarantine until results are known (about 24 hours). Then they will be released from quarantine and free to move around. Unvaccinated travelers must quarantine a full 14 days on a gov’t approved location.
    • Bonaire – Open to U.S travelers. Even with vaccine, a negative COVD test is still required for entry. Mandatory antigen testing on day 5 after arrival. Must complete a Health Declaration Form at www.bonairepublichealth.org. Quarantine is required unless traveling from “low-risk countries.”.
    • British Virgin Islands (BVI) – Open for tourism. Testing pre-arrival, on-arrival, and on day 4 required. Details online. Form must be submitted in advance of arrival on the BVI Gateway Traveller’s Authorization Portal. Contact tracer app required. Immunized travelers will be tested on arrival. Once arrival test result is known, immunized traveler will be exempt from 7-day quarantine. Health insurance is required.
    • Cayman Islands – Limited tourism began Sept. 9. However, Cayman authorities announced on hold on their border reopening on Sept. 14. Until then, travelers from Canada, EU and the U.S. with securely verifiable vaccination records are allowed entry with 5-day quarantine. Pre-arrival PCR tests are required. See website for more details.
    • Cuba – Certain parts of country are open for tourism. U.S. sanctions still apply. COVID-19 test 72 hours prior, with additional test upon arrival. Quarantine is required with negative PCR test result to exit quarantine on day 7.
    • Curacao – Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and these other countries are permitted to enter Curacao. Pre-arrival COVID test required to enter, and additional testing required on day 3 of stay.
    • Dominica – Open; however, entry requirements, disembarkation, and quarantine protocols vary depending on the country-of-origin’s risk level (CARICOM Travel Bubble, Low Risk, Medium Risk, High Risk) and whether or not travelers are vaccinated. U.S. sits on high risk, but vaccinated travelers who test negative during the post-arrival can proceed quarantine free. COVID test on arrival required for all travelers, regardless of vaccination status. Full details online.
    • Dominican Republic – Open to international passengers. Passengers who present a vaccination card and/or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in the Dominican Republic will be exempted from the random test. Universal Aviation DR is open and supporting missions.
    • Grenada – Open. Apply for approval online. Expect to quarantine. Tracer app required. More information online. Persons providing proof of full vaccination will only be required to quarantine for up to 48 hours, pending a negative result from a PCR test administered upon entry.
    • Guadeloupe – French territory. Open for leisure to vaccinated U.S. travelers and pre-arrival COVID test required.
    • Haiti – Open. No quarantine required for vaccinated travelers.
    • Jamaica – Open. All foreign crew and passengers must obtain travel authorization online prior to arrival. COVID-19 PCR or antigen test on arrival for travelers from high risk countries, like the U.S., at cost of $150 USD. Travelers from India, Trinidad, and six South American countries are prohibited. Quarantine required for length of stay or 14 days, in either a residence or tourist zone (“Resilient Corridor”). Fully vaccinated travelers have the option to shorten their mandatory 8-day quarantine by taking an additional (RT-PCR) for COVID-19 on arrival and with a negative result will be released from quarantine. See full details online.
    • Martinique – French territory – Open to vaccinated U.S. travelers for leisure. Proof of negative COVID test results required for entry.
    • St. Barts – French territory – Open for vaccinated travelers. Negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. Must complete online Health entry form prior to entry.
    • St. Lucia – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers exempt from quarantine. Travel registration and health screening questionnaire to be completed in advance and printed before arrival. Random medical screenings may apply. More info online.
    • St. Kitts & Nevis – Open. All travelers who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 must remain in quarantine for at least four days and take a COVID-19 PCR test on the fourth day to exit quarantine. Pre-arrival test and health app required. Details online.
    • Sint Maarten (Dutch side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. However, TNCM falls on the Netherlands side. The Netherlands side is enacting stricter restrictions for passengers from “high-risk” countries. Travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter. Check with us for details based on your specific trip scenario.
    • St. Martin (French side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. Vaccinated travelers from Canada and USA will be allowed entry as tourists at St. Martin (French Side). Unvaccinated travelers will need an imperative reason for travel.
    • St. Vincent & Grenadines – Fully-vaccinated travelers from high-risk countries (including Canada and U.S.) are required to do pre- and on-arrival testing. 48-hour quarantine required at a government-approved hotel/resort or facility. Testing upon arrival required for crew as well. Aircraft disinfection required. See full details and pre-authorization forms online.
    • Trinidad and Tobago – Fully vaccinated travelers can enter. Apply online in advance. Pre-arrival testing required. Unvaccinated travelers are banned.
    • Turks and Caicos – Open to vaccinated travelers. All travelers to the Turks and Caicos are required to obtain a TCI Assure Travel Authorization at least 24 hours prior to boarding. Travel insurance required.
    • USVI and Puerto Rico – See U.S. section above.

Latin America

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Venezuela are still operational and supporting missions.
  • Argentina – the country announced that it will allow all foreign visitors to enter for any purpose (including leisure) starting Nov. 1. No quarantine if vaccinated. Universal Aviation Argentina can assist. Until then, can only enter with special authorization by the government.
  • Belize – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE. Vaccinated travelers will need to still present a negative COVID-19 test result for entry.
  • Brazil – COVID test and health entry form for both crew and passengers. Crew are not exempt. Universal Aviation Brazil is following our C19 Health and Safety standards to support you safely.
  • Bolivia – U.S. passengers allowed entry for business. Travel health insurance required.
  • Chile – Until at least August 31, entry is restricted to medical, humanitarian, cargo and foreigners who have been specially authorized to enter by the Chilean diplomatic mission in their country. Travel medical insurance and quarantine required. Universal Aviation Chile is staying on top of the latest.
  • Colombia – International passengers are allowed to arrive in Colombia. CHECK MIG form required on the Colombian Immigration website. SKBO, SKCG, SKRG, and SKCL are open to accept flights from the U.S., Ecuador, Mexico, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Curacao, and Panama.
  • Costa Rica – Open. No quarantine is required. All passengers and crew must have travel insurance, unless fully vaccinated, and complete this health form in advance.
  • Ecuador – Is permitting persons to enter, but if you are coming from Brazil or India you will need to quarantine. Health form required. For mainland airports, no test required with proof of both vaccine doses. Galapagos airports SEGS and SEST still require a test.
  • El Salvador – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open. No quarantine. Travelers with proof of COVID-19 immunization are not required to present a negative COVID-19 test result for entry.
  • Falkland Islands – Business flights require special invitation letter. Quarantine and periodic COVID testing required, no exemptions. Leisure flights possible if transiting direct to a private vessel. Contact locator form required. Adequate aeromedical insurance is recommended.
  • Guatemala – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE for entry. Open. No quarantine with proof of a negative COVID-19 test result. Health screening on arrival.
  • Guyana – COVID test required for entry. No quarantine.
  • Honduras – Open for business flights. Quarantine not required with proof of a negative test. COVID test on departure required. Travelers with proof of vaccination may be exempt from the testing requirement.
  • Nicaragua – Open. No quarantine. Local contact, aircraft sanitization certificate, and traveler declaration form required.
  • Panama – Open. Quarantine required. Quarantine may be avoided depending on the 14-day travel history. Travelers with digital vaccine certificates proving they have been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior and have a negative COVID test in their IATA Travel Pass will be exempt from further testing requirements at the airport. Must complete an online registration form.
  • Paraguay – Paraguay is open for flights. Proof of Medical insurance required. Health card required.
  • Peru – Reopened for international flights with the exception of those who have been on Brazil, South Africa, or India in the past 14 days.
  • Suriname – Flights require government approval. Health insurance and quarantine required. Aircraft Disinfection Required.
  • Uruguay – Foreign non-residents can enter with special authorization issued by the government and a valid reason to travel. Vaccinated passengers will be exempt from quarantine. Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage is required.
  • Venezuela – Accessible with approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Quarantine at government facility required, up to 14 days. Aircraft Disinfection is required.

Europe

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Ireland, UK, France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey are all open and supporting missions.
    • Reopen Europe has improved its online tool for helping you assess entry requirements into the EU based on your trip scenario.
    • The EU has removed the U.S. from its “safe list” as of August 2021. See details:
      • This is guidance only and non-binding. Each EU member country is following this guidance in its own way. See country-level details below.
      • This has no impact on ops to the UK, as it is no longer an EU member post BREXIT.
    • European countries that are accessible to passengers from the U.S. and other countries not on the EC’s list include:
      • Albania – Open. Health screening upon arrival. Travelers will require one of the following: proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test result.
      • Austria – Open. Immunized U.S. travelers can enter for leisure, without testing or self-isolation. Unvaccinated travelers from 7 countries will have to self-isolate. Some nonessential travel is prohibited. See entry details online.
      • Belarus – Accessible. Travelers from this list of countries will likely have to self-quarantine. Immunized travelers are exempt from testing and isolation.
      • Belgium – Is only allowing entry for essential travel. We’ve also learned that the country doesn’t accept the U.S. CDC card to enter. See specific entry details.
      • Bosnia and Herzegovina – U.S. citizens are allowed entry with a negative COVID test, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery.
      • Bulgaria – Effective Sep 12, the U.S. was added to the Red List. Any traveler coming from the U.S. direct to Bulgaria will not be allowed to enter without approval from the Ministry of Health.
      • Croatia – Open for tourism with negative test, vaccine, or proof of recovery. Travelers from Cyprus, India, Russia, and the UK must have pre-arrival negative Covid-19 test, regardless of vaccine status. Our Universal Aviation offices in Italy are helping coordinate arrangements to enter Croatia for customers.
      • Cyprus – Open. The country is following this traffic light system. COVID test needed prior to arrival and another one upon entry. Self-isolate until results are known. See details here.
      • Czech Republic – U.S. was added to the “Dark Red” category. With that, U.S. vaccinated persons can still enter without restriction, but non-vaccinated travelers have COVID testing requirements and a 10-day quarantine.
      • Denmark – Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other Green/Yellow/Orange or OECD category countries can enter without testing or quarantine. There are additional paths in for non-vaccinated travelers. See detailed entry requirements. (Note: Captcha required to access site.)
      • Estonia – Fully-vaccinated travelers can enter. Testing not required with vaccination.
      • Finland – As part of its phased reopening, vaccinated travelers from all countries (including the United States) are now permitted to enter Finland. To qualify as a vaccinated traveler, you must have received the last dose of a valid COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to arrival. Non-vaccinated travelers from the United States are permitted to enter Finland for essential reasons only.
      • France – Open for tourism to fully vaccinated non-EU citizens from countries not on the red list. U.S. in now on the Orange list. Vaccinated travelers can enter for any reason. Non-vaccinated travelers will have to be authorized for essential reasons, provide a negative Covid test, plus 7 days self-isolation and test to end isolation. Our blog article has the full details.
        • France is the first EU country to offer a digital health pass for vaccinated non-EU citizens/residents. However, we’re getting reports it’s a slow process to obtain this. We’ve received on the ground intel that most establishments will accept a vaccine card. Read details here.
        • France now requires that passengers on domestic legs provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative PCR test. In addition, crew are required to provide this as of Aug. 30. This does not change active crew health entry requirements for international ops into France; just domestic legs in country.
      • Germany – U.S. travelers are allowed for tourism with either a negative test, proof of vaccination, or recent (6 month) proof of recovery. Quarantine can be bypassed with proof of vaccination or proof of recovery.
      • Greece – Open to U.S. travelers that are vaccinated OR those who have a negative PCR test result taken 72 hours before arrival. PLF form needs to be filled out at least 24 hours prior to arrival. Travel back and forth from the mainland to islands or vice versa requires PCR test or proof of vaccination. Indoor dining requires proof of vaccine or negative COVID test. Our FBO ground support offices in Greece are ready to support you.
      • Greenland – Open with prior permission. Proof of vaccination and negative COVID test required for entry.
      • Hungary – U.S. persons can travel to Hungary for essential business. An invitation letter from the receiving party should be submitted in advance for approval. All U.S. passengers approved in for essential business don’t require COVID testing or quarantine.
      • Iceland – Open to travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery. Pre-arrival COVID test also required as of July 27. Full details online.
      • Ireland – Our Universal Aviation offices in Dublin and Shannon can assist.
        • Since July 19, fully-vaccinated travelers from the EU, UK, U.S., and other low risk countries are allowed to enter without testing or quarantine. See full details online.
        • Related to above, since July 19, Ireland is participating in the EU’s Digital Green Pass Program, allowing pass holders with proof of vaccination, recovery, or recent test result.
        • This pre-departure testing provider is available at EIDW for travelers headed to the U.S.
        • U.S. CBP Preclearance is open at Shannon/EINN for GA; however, hours have changed again. Read our blog for details and ops procedures.
        • Shannon has an onsite COVID testing program providing quick turnaround. Appointments are required and can be booked online at https://rocdochealthcheck.ie.
      • Italy – Open to U.S. and Canadian citizens for tourism. Open to vaccinated travelers from the UK. Must have the following: 1) proof of vaccination or recovery, AND 2) proof of negative COVID test. Universal Aviation Italy is ready to support your missions.
      • Latvia – Open for leisure. Passengers who have been in the EU, EEA, Switzerland, UK, or U.S. for the past 14 days and have proof of vaccine approved by European Medicines Agency or WHO are exempt from pre-arrival Covid-19 testing and quarantine.
      • Macedonia – Open. Effective Sep 1, all persons arriving in North Macedonia will need to present either a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before entry, proof of full vaccination, or proof of having recovered from COVID-19 within the previous 45 days.
      • Malta – Immunized travelers from the USA, which is on the Red list, will be allowed entry.
      • Moldova – Effective Aug 18, international travelers are required to present proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test result to enter.
      • Montenegro – Open to U.S. citizens. Effective Sep 14, travelers must present vaccination certificate, negative Covid test, or proof of recovery. Aircraft disinfection required.
      • Netherlands – As of Sept 4, the U.S. has been designated on the very high-risk list. U.S. travelers will only be able enter the Netherlands if they are fully vaccinated or one of the other exemption categories for the EU entry ban. See website for details and consult with us prior to operation.
      • Norway – Open to Green List EU countries without quarantine. We’re expecting to soon hear about plans for easing to the U.S. soon.
      • Poland – Allowed travelers, including U.S. citizens, with an EU-approved vaccine OR proof of recovery are exempt from quarantine. U.S. traveler entering with only a proof of negative test result will need to quarantine. The updated flight ban list can be found online.
      • Portugal – Officially open to tourism, including U.S./Canadian travelers. Proof of a negative COVID test result is required. Travelers from the UK require proof of vaccination or quarantine for 14 days. Note: Effective July 1, Portugal has implemented a new carbon tax for charter ops.
      • Russia – Allowing international travelers from a number of countries, including the U.S. and Mexico. Pre-arrival PCR test required. Canadians are still prohibited.
      • Serbia – U.S. citizens can enter for business or tourism. No quarantine required. Fully vaccinated travelers from some EU countries are exempt from providing negative COVID-19 test results for entry.
      • Slovak Republic – PCR test and quarantine required for entry. Immunized business travelers with acceptable reason for business can be exempted from quarantine. Travelers from the EU and Schengen region are not required to test or quarantine with proof of vaccine. Travelers from Green countries can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test at any time after arrival. Travelers from Red countries (including USA) can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test on the fifth day of quarantine.
      • Slovenia – International arrivals must provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test to enter without quarantine. See website for details.
      • Spain – Open to fully-vaccinated U.S. travelers. Unvaccinated U.S. travelers will require a compelling reason to enter.
      • Sweden – U.S. residents can only enter indirectly via another EU country. Proof of vaccination and negative COVID test required. More details here.
      • Switzerland – Open to U.S. and Canadian travelers. Proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative test result required. Quarantine only required for visitors if they have been to any of these countries (note that U.S is NOT on this list) at any time within the last 14 days before entering Switzerland.
      • Turkey – Travelers from high-risk countries (none of which are EU, UK, US, or Canada) must quarantine. Immunized U.S. travelers do not require a pre-arrival COVID test. Other than the high-risk countries above, Turkey remains open on the Mediterranean to Private/Business flights (including leisure) regardless the country of registration and/or nationality of passenger. Our Universal Aviation office in Turkey can provide assistance.
      • Ukraine – Open. Travelers who have completed the vaccine process are exempt from presenting a negative Covid-19 test on arrival. All unvaccinated travelers must undergo 10 days of self-isolation, which can be ended early by passing a second COVID-19 test. Medical insurance and tracer app required. Aircraft disinfection required. Read more online.
      • UK – Accessible. See section below for more details.
    • UK –
      • NEW UK entry requirements – Coming Oct 4 – The UK will simplify its traffic light system into “RED” and “NON-RED”:
        • Vaccinated travelers arriving from non-Red countries – and having not visited a Red country over previous 10 days – will no longer need to present a negative COVID test to enter. A COVID test will still need to be taken on or before day 2 (note: arrival day is considered day 0), but that will transition to the easier lateral flow test by the end of October.
        • Unvaccinated travelers arriving from non-Red countries will need to present proof of a negative COVID test result taken within 72 hours before departure, self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival, and take a COVID test on the second and eighth day of their quarantine period.
        • Only citizens of the UK and Ireland, as well as permanent residents of the UK, will be allowed to enter from Red countries under the new regulations. Regardless of vaccination status, these travelers will need to take a COVID-19 within 72 hours before departure, and quarantine in a government-approved hotel facility for 10 days at their own expense and test on day two and day eight after arrival.
      • Current UK entry requirements – Travelers must follow the UK’s Red, Amber, and Green list rules for entering the UK. NOTE: Effective Aug 8, the country classification list changed, allowing more access for travelers from India, Qatar, UAE and other countries…but Mexico got more restricted.
        • Fully vaccinated travelers from Green List countries don’t require quarantine.
        • Fully vaccinated travelers from the EU and U.S. can enter the UK from an Amber List country using Green list country rules, which means:
          • Test prior to arrival (lateral flow or PCR)
          • Complete pax locator form and book/take a day 2 COVID test (booked in advance via the official UK website)
          • No quarantine
        • Unvaccinated travelers from Amber List countries, except UK residents, must quarantine and take COVID-19 tests on the second and eighth days of their quarantine period.
        • International visitors who have visited or transited through any Red list country in the previous 10 days will be refused entry into England. Only British and Irish citizens, or those with residence rights in the UK, will be allowed to enter, and they must stay in a government approved quarantine facility for 10 days, which has to be booked prior to travel.
      • Luton’s Night Slot Ban (June 1 – Sept. 30) – London’s Luton Airport announced a new Night Slot Ban is taking effect June 1 through Sept. 30, between the hours of 2200Z to 0600Z. London-Stansted Airport will be the preferred alternative. Read full details on our blog.
      • RAF Northolt Airport in London has extended its M-F operating hours by three hours to 0800-2000L. This is a big deal because as the closest GA-accessible to central London, as well as the closest airport to Heathrow, these longer hours make it a much better option for international operators. Universal Aviation Northolt worked hard to make this happen.
      • Don’t miss your UK-APD payments – Passenger flights out of the UK are subject to Air Passenger Duty (UK-APD) payments, and many operators forget to pay these within the 7-day deadline. Since we have a local office, we can monitor and manage any payments owed on your behalf. Just send a request to our Global Regulatory Team to get started. It’s a fast and easy setup process.
      • A new emissions reporting scheme now applies as a result of Brexit – UK-ETS. If you need help with your UK-ETS monitoring and reporting, we can make this easy for you. Contact our Global Regulatory team directly.

Updated Monday, September 20, 2021, 11:00 AM EST

United States

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • U.S. – No updates. Presidential proclamations remain in place.
    • On Jan. 12, 2021, the U.S. CDC issued an order requiring proof of a negative viral COVID-19 test (NAAT/PCR or antigen), or medical proof of recovery, for anyone arriving from a foreign country to the U.S. The order went into effect Jan. 26, 2021 for ALL flights, including private flight and GA aircraft. Key points:
      • Only ACTIVE crew members are EXEMPT. You can find the full definition of ACTIVE CREW and some analysis on the various exemption scenarios that we’ve been asked about on our website.
      • Passengers must show aircraft operator proof of negative result, taken with 3 days of boarding, or of recovery prior to boarding.
      • U.S. CDC Approves Home Test for Int’l Arrivals – On May 7, the CDC updated its Order to allow self-administered COVID tests (aka home tests) to qualify for int’l arrivals to the U.S. Note that the CDC has guidance on what home tests will be allowed.
      • Operators of private flights and general aviation must maintain passenger Attestations (i.e., declaration forms) for 2 years. Note: While the operator needs to see the test result, only the Attestations (which can be captured digitally) must be kept on file. We are providing free pre-populated Attestation forms on Universal-managed trips in-bound to the U.S. Ask us for details.
      • The CDC’s website has more information on the order, including the official announcement and FAQs.
      • Note FAA NOTAM reinforcing the CDC order.
    • U.S. Presidential Proclamations remain in place: On April 30, the U.S. travel restrictions were extended to include India. All non-U.S. travelers who have recently been in Brazil, India, South Africa, and most EU countries, including the UK and Ireland, are restricted.
      • CBP has published a bulletin announcing a variety of U.S. visa holders have been granted blanket national interest exceptions to the current entry restrictions on travelers from suspended regions. Note: B1 and B2 visas are not exempt; HOWEVER, read next bullet.
      • The U.S. State Department quietly released a buried update allowing National Interest Waivers (NIWs) to be issued to foreign crew seeking entry to the U.S. for the purposes of training or aircraft pickup, delivery, or maintenance – despite their travel history. Crew must have a B-1/B-2, B-1, or M-1 visa, or Visa Waiver Program authorization to qualify. This is a big one many in the business aviation community have been asking for. We have extensive expertise with NIWs and can assist.
      • All stops in suspended regions, overnight or just tech stops, are treated the same.
      • Entry by any non-U.S. foreign national (that includes Canadian and Mexican citizens) who has been in a suspended region over the past 14 days is HIGHLY RESTRICTED and will be denied, with few exceptions.
    • Expired U.S. Passports for Return Travel – CBP issued this bulletin announcing that U.S. citizens holding a U.S. passport that expired on or after January 1, 2020 may still be able to use their expired U.S. passport for direct return travel to the United States until December 31, 2021.
    • New U.S CBP Documentation Provided for Arrivals – Effective April 26, Part 91 arrivals into the U.S will begin receiving this new document [PDF] with their landing rights packages at select ports. It basically covers roles and responsibilities for both operator and CBP for int’l arrivals. NO ACTION is needed when you get this. It’s just good-to-know info to have in your back pocket.
    • U.S. APIS Update: All GA travelers are now required to provide additional details, including primary phone number and email address, for contact tracing purposes when coming from Guinea or the DROC in response to Ebola. Scheduled airlines have already been doing this. Airport funneling from these destinations is also in effect. While these destinations aren’t the most popular for GA travel, it’s not unlikely that we could see the APIS data collection portion of this requirement expanded to cover arrivals from more countries (e.g., for contact tracing other diseases). Note that Private and Charter flights will have different processes for complying with this based on how APIS information is currently transmitted for each of these two flight types. Read more about this on our blog.
    • Applications for signatory carrier status under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are still being processed. All U.S.-based operators (including some international companies with U.S. subsidiaries) and non-U.S. commercial operators are eligible to apply. If you are not a signatory carrier and qualify, we recommend you apply to increase your operating flexibility. We can help.
    • The National Interest Waiver (NIW) is another avenue foreign nationals can seek for entry into the U.S. and can be an effective means of entry. Allowed purposes of visit include Business, Education, Training, and Medical. Application for entry is available for the following U.S. AOEs: KLAX, KEWR, KDFW, KJFK, and KIAH, as well as through the U.S. Embassy in France and the UK. Our Global Regulatory Services team has worked out the repeatable process to apply at each of these and can provide support.
    • On June 29, the U.S. extended the validity for National Interest Exemptions (NIEs) for travelers from China, Iran, Brazil, S. Africa, the Schengen Area, UK, Ireland, and India by 12 months. Details here.
    • The U.S. STEP Program is an important risk mitigation program that U.S. nationals should be using on every international trip, especially now with COVID. When the first wave hit and we saw the massive wave of lockdowns, this program helped get people on the U.S. Embassy’s evacuation list to return home. It has a whole host of other benefits like if you lose your passport or have medical issues, if there is a terrorist incident or civil unrest, etc. Our Global Regulatory Services team offers an optional, turnkey STEP Registration Service for your trips with us.
    • Any operator entering the U.S. from the south should be taking advantage of the CBP’s Border Overflight Exemption (BOE) program to avoid having to make an extra stop at the first designated AOE when returning home. A BOE is good for 2 years, and it greatly increases your operational flexibility. We can take care of this for you.
    • Non-U.S. charter (non-scheduled commercial) operators flying to/from the U.S. with less than 12 flights per year MUST have a DOT Part 375 Ops Permit and/or Special Authorization. We can assist.
    • Advise passengers and crew to continue maintaining a 14-day travel history log of the countries, states, and cities they visit. This is critical for both travel into the U.S., within it, and abroad.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.
    • Hawaii – Travelers who have been vaccinated in the United States, may enter Hawaii without a negative COVID-19 test. International travelers still require a COVID test at one of Hawaii’s approved testing providers. Additional easing on local restrictions expected as vaccination numbers rise.
    • Puerto Rico – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. See details at www.travelsafe.pr.gov or www.viajaseguro.pr.gov. Proof of negative COVID test required to avoid quarantine. Crew are exempt.
    • USVI – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. Visit the USVI Travel Screening Portal and fill out the info requested in advance. Additional information and testing requirements available on https://usviupdate.com/. Our preferred ground handler at TIST, Standard Aviation, has parking availability and can provide air transfers to neighboring Caribbean islands.

Canada 

  • Effective August 9, Fully-vaccinated U.S. citizens and residents can enter with proof of a negative COVID test, without having to quarantine. Read details here.
  • Effective Sept 7, any foreign national that qualifies for the fully-vaccinated traveler exemption can enter Canada for discretionary travel. Use this self-assessment tool to check if you qualify for the exemption.
  • We’ve confirmed via CANPASS that crew are required to take a PCR test if staying longer than 72 hours.
  • Gander (CYQX) Update: Effective Aug 11, travelers on East bound flights directly departing the U.S. are allowed to disembark during the tech stop if 1) vaccinated, 2) have a negative COVID test, and 3) have completed ArriveCan in advance. This does not apply to West bound flights from Europe or return flights.
  • All travelers are required to provide their COVID-related information, in advance, via ArriveCAN app or website.
  • Canada has this online tool to help you assess if you can enter the country.
  • Airport Funneling in Effect – All international passenger flights, including those from the U.S., are required to enter Canada through one of the following nine funneling airports: CYYZ/Toronto, CYVR/Vancouver, CYUL/Montreal, and CYYC/Calgary, Edmonton/CYEG, Winnipeg/CYWG, Ottawa/CYOW, Quebec/CYQB, and Halifax/CYHZ. Initial announcement for the first 4 airports. Announcement on the 5 added in August. Medevac, ferry and crew repatriation flights, cargo-only flights, and tech stops where no passengers disembark are exempt.
  • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Sept. 21, 2021. Note: This does not apply to air travel.

Mexico

  • Mexico – No major updates.
    • Mexico is open and accessible. Popular tourist destinations like Los Cabos, Cozumel, PV, and Cancun are active with flights.
    • Our ground handing teams in Mexico (Mexico City/Toluca, Los Cabos, Cancun, Cozumel, PV, Monterrey, etc.) are available to support your missions.
    • AFAC remains closed but is processing AOC renewals and modifications, one time permits, blanket permit modifications, and blanket permit verifications remotely/online. Note that AFAC is working under reduced staffing hours, so application processing will take longer than normal. For assistance with your Mexico permits, we can help.
    • There is a no-touch Covid-19 health assessment form, which is required on arrival/departure. After completing the form, print or screen cap the QR code that is generated for easy access. You’ll need to present this to the health inspectors upon arrival into Mexico. Here is the link: https://afac.hostingerapp.com – Note that you need to actually copy/paste it into your browser; just clicking it will throw an error. A 14-day quarantine at residence may be necessary; however, popular tourist zones in the typical vacation cities (e.g., Cancun, Los Cabos, PV, Cozumel) are excluded.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.
    • The Mexican government has established an epidemiological traffic light monitoring system based on the number of cases and risk of contagion to manage the relaxing of restrictions. The status of it varies from state to state.

Caribbean

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Anguilla – Open. Only open to fully vaccinated travelers. Pre- and on-arrival testing required. Quarantine 24 hours until result is known. If negative, you are free to move about island.
    • Antigua and Barbuda – Fully vaccinated tourist \ travelers, do not have to quarantine. However, both they AND crew are required to have a proof of a negative COVID test taken prior to arrival. See official website for details.
    • Aruba – Aruba is accepting flights from all U.S. states. The pre-arrival COVID test requirement has been reinstated for vaccinated travelers. Aruba’s Digital Embarkation-Disembarkation Card (ED card) and health insurance are required.
    • Bahamas – Open. FULLY-VACCINATED TRAVELERS are no longer exempt from the requirement to provide a negative PCR test prior to arrival; testing required prior to arrival for ALL travelers. No quarantine required. This electronic health visa must be completed. Health insurance is required. More info at the Office of the Prime Minister and Reopen Bahamas.
    • Barbados – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers will only need to quarantine 1 day. Pre- and on-arrival testing required, unless coming from a designated “travel bubble” Caribbean island. Quarantine 24 hours until test result is known, after which you are free to move about the island. See details online.
    • Bermuda – Open. Vaccinated travelers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result to enter. They will also l be tested on arrival and must quarantine until results are known (about 24 hours). Then they will be released from quarantine and free to move around. Unvaccinated travelers must quarantine a full 14 days on a gov’t approved location.
    • Bonaire – Open to U.S travelers. Check with us for latest. Must complete a Health Declaration Form at www.bonairepublichealth.org. Quarantine is required unless traveling from “low-risk countries.”.
    • British Virgin Islands (BVI) – Open for tourism. Testing pre-arrival, on-arrival, and on day 4 required. Details online. Form must be submitted in advance of arrival on the BVI Gateway Traveller’s Authorization Portal. Contact tracer app required. Immunized travelers will be tested on arrival. Once arrival test result is known, immunized traveler will be exempt from 7-day quarantine. Health insurance is required.
    • Cayman Islands – Cayman authorities are allowing limited tourism of vaccinated travelers to resume, with a 2-week quarantine required. Pre-arrival COVID testing required. See website for more details.
    • Cuba – Certain parts of country are open for tourism. U.S. sanctions still apply. COVID-19 test upon arrival. Quarantine is required.
    • Curacao – Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and these other countries are permitted to enter Curacao. Pre-arrival COVID test required to enter, and additional testing required on day 3 of stay.
    • Dominica – Open; however, entry requirements, disembarkation, and quarantine protocols vary depending on the country-of-origin’s risk level (CARICOM Travel Bubble, Low Risk, Medium Risk, High Risk) and whether or not travelers are vaccinated. U.S. sits on high risk, but vaccinated travelers who test negative during the post-arrival can proceed quarantine free. COVID test on arrival required for all travelers, regardless of vaccination status. Full details online.
    • Dominican Republic – Open to international passengers. Passengers who present a vaccination card and/or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in the Dominican Republic will be exempted from the random test. Universal Aviation DR is open and supporting missions.
    • Grenada – Open. Apply for approval online. Expect to quarantine. Tracer app required. More information online. Persons providing proof of full vaccination will only be required to quarantine for up to 48 hours, pending a negative result from a PCR test administered upon entry.
    • Guadeloupe – French territory. Open for leisure to vaccinated U.S. travelers and pre-arrival COVID test required.
    • Haiti – Open. No quarantine required for vaccinated travelers.
    • Jamaica – Open. All foreign crew and passengers must obtain travel authorization online prior to arrival. COVID-19 PCR or antigen test on arrival for travelers from high risk countries, like the U.S., at cost of $150 USD. Travelers from India, Trinidad, and six South American countries are prohibited. Quarantine required for length of stay or 14 days, in either a residence or tourist zone (“Resilient Corridor”). Fully vaccinated travelers have the option to shorten their mandatory 8-day quarantine by taking an additional (RT-PCR) for COVID-19 on arrival and with a negative result will be released from quarantine. See full details online.
    • Martinique – French territory – Open to vaccinated U.S. travelers for leisure. Proof of negative COVID test results required for entry.
    • St. Barts – French territory – Open for vaccinated travelers. Negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. Must complete online Health entry form prior to entry.
    • St. Lucia – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers exempt from quarantine. More info online.
    • St. Kitts & Nevis – Open. All travelers who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 must remain in quarantine for at least four days and take a COVID-19 PCR test on the fourth day to exit quarantine. Pre-arrival test and health app required. Details online.
    • Sint Maarten (Dutch side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. However, TNCM falls on the Netherlands side. The Netherlands side is enacting stricter restrictions for passengers from “high-risk” countries. Travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter. Check with us for details based on your specific trip scenario.
    • St. Martin (French side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. Vaccinated travelers from Canada and USA will be allowed entry as tourists at St. Martin (French Side). Unvaccinated travelers will need an imperative reason for travel.
    • St. Vincent & Grenadines – Fully-vaccinated travelers from high-risk countries (including Canada and U.S.) are required to do pre- and on-arrival testing. 48-hour quarantine required at a government-approved hotel/resort or facility. Testing upon arrival required for crew as well. Aircraft disinfection required. See full details and pre-authorization forms online.
    • Trinidad and Tobago – Fully vaccinated travelers can enter. Apply online in advance. Pre-arrival testing required. Unvaccinated travelers are banned.
    • Turks and Caicos – Open to vaccinated travelers. All travelers to the Turks and Caicos are required to obtain a TCI Assure Travel Authorization at least 24 hours prior to boarding. Travel insurance required.
    • USVI and Puerto Rico – See U.S. section above.

Latin America

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Venezuela are still operational and supporting missions.
  • Argentina – Very restricted. Can only enter with special authorization by the government. Universal Aviation Argentina is staying on top of the latest.
  • Belize – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE. Vaccinated travelers will need to still present a negative COVID-19 test result for entry.
  • Brazil – COVID test and health entry form for both crew and passengers. Crew are not exempt. Universal Aviation Brazil is following our C19 Health and Safety standards to support you safely.
  • Bolivia – U.S. passengers allowed entry for business. Travel health insurance required.
  • Chile – Until at least August 31, entry is restricted to medical, humanitarian, cargo and foreigners who have been specially authorized to enter by the Chilean diplomatic mission in their country. Travel medical insurance and quarantine required. Universal Aviation Chile is staying on top of the latest.
  • Colombia – International passengers are allowed to arrive in Colombia. CHECK MIG form required on the Colombian Immigration website. SKBO, SKCG, SKRG, and SKCL are open to accept flights from the U.S., Ecuador, Mexico, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Curacao, and Panama.
  • Costa Rica – Open. No quarantine is required. All passengers and crew must have travel insurance, unless fully vaccinated, and complete this health form in advance.
  • Ecuador – Is permitting persons to enter, but if you are coming from Brazil or India you will need to quarantine. Health form required. For mainland airports, no test required with proof of both vaccine doses. Galapagos airports SEGS and SEST still require a test.
  • El Salvador – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open. No quarantine. Travelers with proof of COVID-19 immunization are not required to present a negative COVID-19 test result for entry.
  • Falkland Islands – Business flights require special invitation letter. Quarantine and periodic COVID testing required, no exemptions. Leisure flights possible if transiting direct to a private vessel. Contact locator form required. Adequate aeromedical insurance is recommended.
  • Guatemala – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE for entry. Open. No quarantine with proof of a negative COVID-19 test result. Health screening on arrival.
  • Guyana – COVID test required for entry. No quarantine.
  • Honduras – Open for business flights. Quarantine not required with proof of a negative test. COVID test on departure required. Travelers with proof of vaccination may be exempt from the testing requirement.
  • Nicaragua – Open. No quarantine. Local contact, aircraft sanitization certificate, and traveler declaration form required.
  • Panama – Open. Quarantine required. Quarantine may be avoided depending on the 14-day travel history. Travelers with digital vaccine certificates proving they have been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior and have a negative COVID test in their IATA Travel Pass will be exempt from further testing requirements at the airport. Must complete an online registration form.
  • Paraguay – Paraguay is open for flights. Proof of Medical insurance required. Health card required.
  • Peru – Reopened for international flights with the exception of those who have been on Brazil, South Africa, or India in the past 14 days.
  • Suriname – Flights require government approval. Health insurance and quarantine required. Aircraft Disinfection Required.
  • Uruguay – Foreign non-residents can enter with special authorization issued by the government and a valid reason to travel. Vaccinated passengers will be exempt from quarantine. Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage is required.
  • Venezuela – Accessible with approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Quarantine at government facility required, up to 14 days. Aircraft Disinfection is required.

Europe

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Ireland, UK, France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey are all open and supporting missions.
    • Reopen Europe has improved its online tool for helping you assess entry requirements into the EU based on your trip scenario.
    • The EU has removed the U.S. from its “safe list” as of August 2021. See details:
      • This is guidance only and non-binding. Each EU member country will choose if, how, and when they want to follow this.
      • So far, we’ve seen no impact or restriction changes because of the announcement.
      • The EU specifically cited restricting “non-essential” travel in its recommendation, leaving the door open for business travel. Earlier in the pandemic, each country interpreted essential vs non-essential differently – with many allowing most business-purpose flights.
      • This news has no impact on ops to the UK, as it is no longer an EU member post BREXIT.
      • Bottom line is this news does NOT mean, U.S. travelers can no longer get into Europe. It just makes proper planning and staying on top of the latest regulations even more essential.
    • European countries that are accessible to passengers from the U.S. and other countries not on the EC’s list include:
      • Albania – Open. Health screening upon arrival. Travelers will require one of the following: proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test result.
      • Austria – Open. Immunized U.S. travelers can enter for leisure, without testing or self-isolation. Unvaccinated travelers from 7 countries will have to self-isolate. Some nonessential travel is prohibited. See entry details online.
      • Belarus – Accessible. Travelers from this list of countries will likely have to self-quarantine.
      • Belgium – Is only allowing entry for essential travel. We’ve also learned that the country doesn’t accept the U.S. CDC card to enter. See specific entry details.
      • Bosnia and Herzegovina – U.S. citizens are allowed entry with a negative COVID test, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery.
      • Bulgaria – Effective Sep 12, the U.S. was added to the Red List. Any traveler coming from the U.S. direct to Bulgaria will not be allowed to enter without approval from the Ministry of Health.
      • Croatia – Open for tourism with negative test, vaccine, or proof of recovery. Travelers from Cyprus, India, Russia, and the UK must have pre-arrival negative Covid-19 test, regardless of vaccine status. Our Universal Aviation offices in Italy are helping coordinate arrangements to enter Croatia for customers.
      • Cyprus – Open. The country is following this traffic light system. COVID test needed prior to arrival and another one upon entry. Self-isolate until results are known. See details here.
      • Czech Republic – U.S. was added to the “Dark Red” category. With that, U.S. vaccinated persons can still enter without restriction, but non-vaccinated travelers have COVID testing requirements and a 10-day quarantine.
      • Denmark – Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other Green/Yellow/Orange or OECD category countries can enter without testing or quarantine. There are additional paths in for non-vaccinated travelers. See detailed entry requirements. (Note: Captcha required to access site.)
      • Estonia – Fully-vaccinated travelers can enter. Testing not required with vaccination.
      • Finland – As part of its phased reopening, vaccinated travelers from all countries (including the United States) are now permitted to enter Finland. To qualify as a vaccinated traveler, you must have received the last dose of a valid COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to arrival. Non-vaccinated travelers from the United States are permitted to enter Finland for essential reasons only.
      • France – Open for tourism to fully vaccinated non-EU citizens from countries not on the red list. U.S. in now on the Orange list. Vaccinated travelers can enter for any reason. Non-vaccinated travelers will have to be authorized for essential reasons, provide a negative Covid test, plus 7 days self-isolation and test to end isolation. Our blog article has the full details.
        • France is the first EU country to offer a digital health pass for vaccinated non-EU citizens/residents. However, we’re getting reports it’s a slow process to obtain this. We’ve received on the ground intel that most establishments will accept a vaccine card. Read details here.
        • France now requires that passengers on domestic legs provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative PCR test. In addition, crew are required to provide this as of Aug. 30. This does not change active crew health entry requirements for international ops into France; just domestic legs in country.
      • Germany – U.S. travelers are allowed for tourism with either a negative test, proof of vaccination, or recent (6 month) proof of recovery. Quarantine can be bypassed with proof of vaccination or proof of recovery.
      • Greece – Open to U.S. travelers that are vaccinated OR those who have a negative PCR test result taken 72 hours before arrival. PLF form needs to be filled out at least 24 hours prior to arrival. Travel back and forth from the mainland to islands or vice versa requires PCR test or proof of vaccination. Indoor dining requires proof of vaccine or negative COVID test. Our FBO ground support offices in Greece are ready to support you.
      • Greenland – Open with prior permission. Proof of vaccination and negative COVID test required for entry.
      • Hungary – U.S. persons can travel to Hungary for essential business. An invitation letter from the receiving party should be submitted in advance for approval. All U.S. passengers approved in for essential business don’t require COVID testing or quarantine.
      • Iceland – Open to travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery. Pre-arrival COVID test also required as of July 27. Full details online.
      • Ireland – Our Universal Aviation offices in Dublin and Shannon can assist.
        • Since July 19, fully-vaccinated travelers from the EU, UK, U.S., and other low risk countries are allowed to enter without testing or quarantine. See full details online.
        • Related to above, since July 19, Ireland is participating in the EU’s Digital Green Pass Program, allowing pass holders with proof of vaccination, recovery, or recent test result.
        • This pre-departure testing provider is available at EIDW for travelers headed to the U.S.
        • U.S. CBP Preclearance is open at Shannon/EINN for GA; however, hours have changed again. Read our blog for details and ops procedures.
        • Shannon has an onsite COVID testing program providing quick turnaround. Appointments are required and can be booked online at https://rocdochealthcheck.ie.
      • Italy – Open to U.S. and Canadian citizens for tourism. Open to vaccinated travelers from the UK. Must have the following: 1) proof of vaccination or recovery, AND 2) proof of negative COVID test. Universal Aviation Italy is ready to support your missions.
      • Latvia – Open for leisure. Passengers who have been in the EU, EEA, Switzerland, UK, or U.S. for the past 14 days and have proof of vaccine approved by European Medicines Agency or WHO are exempt from pre-arrival Covid-19 testing and quarantine.
      • Macedonia – Open. Effective Sep 1, all persons arriving in North Macedonia will need to present either a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before entry, proof of full vaccination, or proof of having recovered from COVID-19 within the previous 45 days.
      • Malta – Immunized travelers from the USA, which is on the Red list, will be allowed entry.
      • Moldova – Effective Aug 18, international travelers are required to present proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test result to enter.
      • Montenegro – Open to U.S. citizens. Effective Sep 14, travelers must present vaccination certificate, negative Covid test, or proof of recovery. Aircraft disinfection required.
      • Netherlands – As of Sept 4, the U.S. has been designated on the very high risk list. U.S. travelers will only be able enter the Netherlands if they are fully vaccinated and fall under one of the 23 exemption categories for the EU entry ban. They are also required to quarantine for 10 days on arrival, and they must also show proof of a negative COVID test result. Proof of recovery or vaccination is no longer be sufficient to be exempt from pre-travel negative test. Non-EU/Schengen passengers transiting from high-risk, hotspot countries are very restricted.
      • Norway – Open to Green List EU countries without quarantine. We’re expecting to soon hear about plans for easing to the U.S. soon.
      • Poland – Allowed travelers, including U.S. citizens, with an EU-approved vaccine OR proof of recovery are exempt from quarantine. U.S. traveler entering with only a proof of negative test result will need to quarantine. The updated flight ban list can be found online.
      • Portugal – Officially open to tourism, including U.S./Canadian travelers. Proof of a negative COVID test result is required. Travelers from the UK require proof of vaccination or quarantine for 14 days. Note: Effective July 1, Portugal has implemented a new carbon tax for charter ops.
      • Russia – Allowing international travelers from a number of countries, including the U.S. and Mexico. Pre-arrival PCR test required. Canadians are still prohibited.
      • Serbia – U.S. citizens can enter for business or tourism. No quarantine required. Fully vaccinated travelers from some EU countries are exempt from providing negative COVID-19 test results for entry.
      • Slovak Republic – PCR test and quarantine required for entry. Immunized business travelers with acceptable reason for business can be exempted from quarantine. Travelers from the EU and Schengen region are not required to test or quarantine with proof of vaccine. Travelers from Green countries can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test at any time after arrival. Travelers from Red countries (including USA) can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test on the fifth day of quarantine.
      • Slovenia – International arrivals must provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test to enter without quarantine. See website for details.
      • Spain – Open to fully-vaccinated U.S. travelers. Unvaccinated U.S. travelers will require reason a compelling reason to enter.
      • Sweden – U.S. residents can only enter indirectly via another EU country. Proof of vaccination and negative COVID test required. More details here.
      • Switzerland – Open to U.S. and Canadian travelers. Proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative test result required. Quarantine only required for visitors if they have been to any of these countries (note that U.S is NOT on this list) at any time within the last 14 days before entering Switzerland.
      • Turkey – Travelers from high-risk countries (none of which are EU, UK, US, or Canada) must quarantine. Immunized U.S. travelers do not require a pre-arrival COVID test. Other than the high-risk countries above, Turkey remains open on the Mediterranean to Private/Business flights (including leisure) regardless the country of registration and/or nationality of passenger. Our Universal Aviation office in Turkey can provide assistance.
      • Ukraine – Open. Travelers who have completed the vaccine process are exempt from presenting a negative Covid-19 test on arrival. All unvaccinated travelers must undergo 10 days of self-isolation, which can be ended early by passing a second COVID-19 test. Medical insurance and tracer app required. Aircraft disinfection required. Read more online.
      • UK – Accessible. See section below for more details.
    • UK –
      • UK entry requirements – Travelers must follow the UK’s Red, Amber, and Green list rules for entering the UK. NOTE: Effective Aug 8, the country classification list will change, allowing more access for travelers from India, Qatar, UAE and other countries. Mexico will be more restricted.
        • Fully vaccinated travelers from Green List countries don’t require quarantine.
        • Fully vaccinated travelers from the EU and U.S. can enter the UK from an Amber List country using Green list country rules, which means:
          • Test prior to arrival (lateral flow or PCR)
          • Complete pax locator form and book/take a day 2 COVID test (booked in advance via the official UK website)
          • No quarantine
        • Unvaccinated travelers from Amber List countries, except UK residents, must quarantine and take COVID-19 tests on the second and eighth days of their quarantine period.
        • International visitors who have visited or transited through any Red list country in the previous 10 days will be refused entry into England. Only British and Irish citizens, or those with residence rights in the UK, will be allowed to enter, and they must stay in a government approved quarantine facility for 10 days, which has to be booked prior to travel.
      • The UK may soon begin to require COVID passes for entry to night clubs and indoor venues. Nothing official yet.
      • Luton’s Night Slot Ban (June 1 – Sept. 30) – London’s Luton Airport announced a new Night Slot Ban is taking effect June 1 through Sept. 30, between the hours of 2200Z to 0600Z. London-Stansted Airport will be the preferred alternative. Read full details on our blog.
      • RAF Northolt Airport in London has extended its M-F operating hours by three hours to 0800-2000L. This is a big deal because as the closest GA-accessible to central London, as well as the closest airport to Heathrow, these longer hours make it a much better option for international operators. Universal Aviation Northolt worked hard to make this happen.
      • Don’t miss your UK-APD payments – Passenger flights out of the UK are subject to Air Passenger Duty (UK-APD) payments, and many operators forget to pay these within the 7-day deadline. Since we have a local office, we can monitor and manage any payments owed on your behalf. Just send a request to our Global Regulatory Team to get started. It’s a fast and easy setup process.
      • A new emissions reporting scheme now applies as a result of Brexit – UK-ETS. If you need help with your UK-ETS monitoring and reporting, we can make this easy for you. Contact our Global Regulatory team directly.



Updated Monday, September 13, 2021, 10:30 AM EST

United States

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • U.S. – No updates. Presidential proclamations remain in place.
    • On Jan. 12, 2021, the U.S. CDC issued an order requiring proof of a negative viral COVID-19 test (NAAT/PCR or antigen), or medical proof of recovery, for anyone arriving from a foreign country to the U.S. The order went into effect Jan. 26, 2021 for ALL flights, including private flight and GA aircraft. Key points:
      • Only ACTIVE crew members are EXEMPT. You can find the full definition of ACTIVE CREW and some analysis on the various exemption scenarios that we’ve been asked about on our website.
      • Passengers must show aircraft operator proof of negative result, taken with 3 days of boarding, or of recovery prior to boarding.
      • U.S. CDC Approves Home Test for Int’l Arrivals – On May 7, the CDC updated its Order to allow self-administered COVID tests (aka home tests) to qualify for int’l arrivals to the U.S. Note that the CDC has guidance on what home tests will be allowed.
      • Operators of private flights and general aviation must maintain passenger Attestations (i.e., declaration forms) for 2 years. Note: While the operator needs to see the test result, only the Attestations (which can be captured digitally) must be kept on file. We are providing free pre-populated Attestation forms on Universal-managed trips in-bound to the U.S. Ask us for details.
      • The CDC’s website has more information on the order, including the official announcement and FAQs.
      • Note FAA NOTAM reinforcing the CDC order.
    • U.S. Presidential Proclamations remain in place: On April 30, the U.S. travel restrictions were extended to include India. All non-U.S. travelers who have recently been in Brazil, India, South Africa, and most EU countries, including the UK and Ireland, are restricted.
      • CBP has published a bulletin announcing a variety of U.S. visa holders have been granted blanket national interest exceptions to the current entry restrictions on travelers from suspended regions. Note: B1 and B2 visas are not exempt; HOWEVER, read next bullet.
      • The U.S. State Department quietly released a buried update allowing National Interest Waivers (NIWs) to be issued to foreign crew seeking entry to the U.S. for the purposes of training or aircraft pickup, delivery, or maintenance – despite their travel history. Crew must have a B-1/B-2, B-1, or M-1 visa, or Visa Waiver Program authorization to qualify. This is a big one many in the business aviation community have been asking for. We have extensive expertise with NIWs and can assist.
      • All stops in suspended regions, overnight or just tech stops, are treated the same.
      • Entry by any non-U.S. foreign national (that includes Canadian and Mexican citizens) who has been in a suspended region over the past 14 days is HIGHLY RESTRICTED and will be denied, with few exceptions.
    • Expired U.S. Passports for Return Travel – CBP issued this bulletin announcing that U.S. citizens holding a U.S. passport that expired on or after January 1, 2020 may still be able to use their expired U.S. passport for direct return travel to the United States until December 31, 2021.
    • New U.S CBP Documentation Provided for Arrivals – Effective April 26, Part 91 arrivals into the U.S will begin receiving this new document [PDF] with their landing rights packages at select ports. It basically covers roles and responsibilities for both operator and CBP for int’l arrivals. NO ACTION is needed when you get this. It’s just good-to-know info to have in your back pocket.
    • U.S. APIS Update: All GA travelers are now required to provide additional details, including primary phone number and email address, for contact tracing purposes when coming from Guinea or the DROC in response to Ebola. Scheduled airlines have already been doing this. Airport funneling from these destinations is also in effect. While these destinations aren’t the most popular for GA travel, it’s not unlikely that we could see the APIS data collection portion of this requirement expanded to cover arrivals from more countries (e.g., for contact tracing other diseases). Note that Private and Charter flights will have different processes for complying with this based on how APIS information is currently transmitted for each of these two flight types. Read more about this on our blog.
    • Applications for signatory carrier status under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are still being processed. All U.S.-based operators (including some international companies with U.S. subsidiaries) and non-U.S. commercial operators are eligible to apply. If you are not a signatory carrier and qualify, we recommend you apply to increase your operating flexibility. We can help.
    • The National Interest Waiver (NIW) is another avenue foreign nationals can seek for entry into the U.S. and can be an effective means of entry. Allowed purposes of visit include Business, Education, Training, and Medical. Application for entry is available for the following U.S. AOEs: KLAX, KEWR, KDFW, KJFK, and KIAH, as well as through the U.S. Embassy in France and the UK. Our Global Regulatory Services team has worked out the repeatable process to apply at each of these and can provide support.
    • On June 29, the U.S. extended the validity for National Interest Exemptions (NIEs) for travelers from China, Iran, Brazil, S. Africa, the Schengen Area, UK, Ireland, and India by 12 months. Details here.
    • The U.S. STEP Program is an important risk mitigation program that U.S. nationals should be using on every international trip, especially now with COVID. When the first wave hit and we saw the massive wave of lockdowns, this program helped get people on the U.S. Embassy’s evacuation list to return home. It has a whole host of other benefits like if you lose your passport or have medical issues, if there is a terrorist incident or civil unrest, etc. Our Global Regulatory Services team offers an optional, turnkey STEP Registration Service for your trips with us.
    • Any operator entering the U.S. from the south should be taking advantage of the CBP’s Border Overflight Exemption (BOE) program to avoid having to make an extra stop at the first designated AOE when returning home. A BOE is good for 2 years, and it greatly increases your operational flexibility. We can take care of this for you.
    • Non-U.S. charter (non-scheduled commercial) operators flying to/from the U.S. with less than 12 flights per year MUST have a DOT Part 375 Ops Permit and/or Special Authorization. We can assist.
    • Advise passengers and crew to continue maintaining a 14-day travel history log of the countries, states, and cities they visit. This is critical for both travel into the U.S., within it, and abroad.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.
    • Hawaii – Travelers who have been vaccinated in the United States, may enter Hawaii without a negative COVID-19 test. International travelers still require a COVID test at one of Hawaii’s approved testing providers. Additional easing on local restrictions expected as vaccination numbers rise.
    • Puerto Rico – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. See details at www.travelsafe.pr.gov or www.viajaseguro.pr.gov. Proof of negative COVID test required to avoid quarantine. Crew are exempt.
    • USVI – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. Visit the USVI Travel Screening Portal and fill out the info requested in advance. Additional information and testing requirements available on https://usviupdate.com/. Our preferred ground handler at TIST, Standard Aviation, has parking availability and can provide air transfers to neighboring Caribbean islands.
    • Alaska – Alaska’s travel mandates and orders are now just travel advisories. Full entry details online.

Canada 

  • Effective August 9, Fully-vaccinated U.S. citizens and residents can enter with proof of a negative COVID test, without having to quarantine. Read details here.
  • Effective Sept 7, any foreign national that qualifies for the fully-vaccinated traveler exemption can enter Canada for discretionary travel. Use this self-assessment tool to check if you qualify for the exemption.
  • We’ve confirmed via CANPASS that crew are required to take a PCR test if staying longer than 72 hours.
  • Gander (CYQX) Update: Effective Aug 11, travelers on East bound flights directly departing the U.S. are allowed to disembark during the tech stop if 1) vaccinated, 2) have a negative COVID test, and 3) have completed ArriveCan in advance. This does not apply to West bound flights from Europe or return flights.
  • All travelers are required to provide their COVID-related information, in advance, via ArriveCAN app or website.
  • Canada has this online tool to help you assess if you can enter the country.
  • Airport Funneling in Effect – All international passenger flights, including those from the U.S., are required to enter Canada through one of the following nine funneling airports: CYYZ/Toronto, CYVR/Vancouver, CYUL/Montreal, and CYYC/Calgary, Edmonton/CYEG, Winnipeg/CYWG, Ottawa/CYOW, Quebec/CYQB, and Halifax/CYHZ. Initial announcement for the first 4 airports. Announcement on the 5 added in August. Medevac, ferry and crew repatriation flights, cargo-only flights, and tech stops where no passengers disembark are exempt.
  • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Sept. 21, 2021. Note: This does not apply to air travel.

Mexico

  • Mexico – No major updates.
    • Mexico is open and accessible. Popular tourist destinations like Los Cabos, Cozumel, PV, and Cancun are active with flights.
    • Our ground handing teams in Mexico (Mexico City/Toluca, Los Cabos, Cancun, Cozumel, PV, Monterrey, etc.) are available to support your missions.
    • AFAC remains closed but is processing AOC renewals and modifications, one time permits, blanket permit modifications, and blanket permit verifications remotely/online. Note that AFAC is working under reduced staffing hours, so application processing will take longer than normal. For assistance with your Mexico permits, we can help.
    • There is a no-touch Covid-19 health assessment form, which is required on arrival/departure. After completing the form, print or screen cap the QR code that is generated for easy access. You’ll need to present this to the health inspectors upon arrival into Mexico. Here is the link: https://afac.hostingerapp.com – Note that you need to actually copy/paste it into your browser; just clicking it will throw an error. A 14-day quarantine at residence may be necessary; however, popular tourist zones in the typical vacation cities (e.g., Cancun, Los Cabos, PV, Cozumel) are excluded.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.
    • The Mexican government has established an epidemiological traffic light monitoring system based on the number of cases and risk of contagion to manage the relaxing of restrictions. The status of it varies from state to state.

Caribbean

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • Anguilla – Open. Only open to fully vaccinated travelers. Pre- and on-arrival testing required. Quarantine 24 hours until result is known. If negative, you are free to move about island.
  • Antigua and Barbuda – Fully vaccinated tourist \ travelers, do not have to quarantine. However, both they AND crew are required to have a proof of a negative COVID test taken prior to arrival. See official website for details.
  • Aruba – Aruba is accepting flights from all U.S. states. The pre-arrival COVID test requirement has been reinstated for vaccinated travelers. Aruba’s Digital Embarkation-Disembarkation Card (ED card) and health insurance are required.
  • Bahamas – Open. FULLY-VACCINATED TRAVELERS are no longer exempt from the requirement to provide a negative PCR test prior to arrival; testing required prior to arrival for ALL travelers. No quarantine required. This electronic health visa must be completed. Health insurance is required. More info at the Office of the Prime Minister and Reopen Bahamas.
  • Barbados – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers will only need to quarantine 1 day. Pre- and on-arrival testing required, unless coming from a designated “travel bubble” Caribbean island. Quarantine 24 hours until test result is known, after which you are free to move about the island. See details online.
  • Bermuda – Open. Vaccinated travelers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result to enter. They will also l be tested on arrival and must quarantine until results are known (about 24 hours). Then they will be released from quarantine and free to move around. Unvaccinated travelers must quarantine a full 14 days on a gov’t approved location.
  • Bonaire – Open to U.S travelers. Check with us for latest. Must complete a Health Declaration Form at www.bonairepublichealth.org. Quarantine is required unless traveling from “low-risk countries.”.
  • British Virgin Islands (BVI) – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for tourism. Testing pre-arrival, on-arrival, and on day 4 required. Details online. Form must be submitted in advance of arrival on the BVI Gateway Traveller’s Authorization Portal. Contact tracer app required. Immunized travelers will be tested on arrival. Once arrival test result is known, immunized traveler will be exempt from 7-day quarantine. Health insurance is required.
  • Cayman Islands – As of Sep 9, Cayman authorities are allowing limited tourism of vaccinated travelers to resume, with a 2-week quarantine required. Pre-arrival COVID testing required. The government’s plan is that by Oct 14, verified vaccinated travelers will no longer need to quarantine. See website for more details.
  • Cuba – Certain parts of country are open for tourism. U.S. sanctions still apply. COVID-19 test upon arrival. Quarantine is required.
  • Curacao – Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and these other countries are permitted to enter Curacao. Pre-arrival COVID test required to enter.
  • Dominica – Open; however, entry requirements, disembarkation, and quarantine protocols vary depending on the country-of-origin’s risk level (CARICOM Travel Bubble, Low Risk, Medium Risk, High Risk) and whether or not travelers are vaccinated. U.S. sits on high risk, but vaccinated travelers who test negative during the post-arrival can proceed quarantine free. COVID test on arrival required for all travelers, regardless of vaccination status. Full details online.
  • Dominican Republic – Open to international passengers. Passengers who present a vaccination card and/or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in the Dominican Republic will be exempted from the random test. Universal Aviation DR is open and supporting missions.
  • Grenada – Open. Apply for approval online. Expect to quarantine. Tracer app required. More information online. Persons providing proof of full vaccination will only be required to quarantine for up to 48 hours, pending a negative result from a PCR test administered upon entry.
  • Guadeloupe – French territory. Open for leisure to vaccinated U.S. travelers and pre-arrival COVID test required.
  • Haiti – Open. No quarantine required for vaccinated travelers.
  • Jamaica – Open. All foreign crew and passengers must obtain travel authorization online prior to arrival. COVID-19 PCR or antigen test on arrival for travelers from high risk countries, like the U.S., at cost of $150 USD. Travelers from India, Trinidad, and six South American countries are prohibited. Quarantine required for length of stay or 14 days, in either a residence or tourist zone (“Resilient Corridor”). Fully vaccinated travelers have the option to shorten their mandatory 8-day quarantine by taking an additional (RT-PCR) for COVID-19 on arrival and with a negative result will be released from quarantine. See full details online.
  • Martinique – French territory – Open to vaccinated U.S. travelers for leisure. Proof of negative COVID test results required for entry.
  • St. Barts – French territory – Open for vaccinated travelers. Negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. Must complete online Health entry form prior to entry.
  • St. Lucia – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers exempt from quarantine. More info online.
  • St. Kitts & Nevis – Open. All travelers who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 must remain in quarantine for at least four days and take a COVID-19 PCR test on the fourth day to exit quarantine. Pre-arrival test and health app required. Details online.
  • Sint Maarten (Dutch side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. However, TNCM falls on the Netherlands side. The Netherlands side is enacting stricter restrictions for passengers from “high-risk” countries. Travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter. Check with us for details based on your specific flight scenario.
  • St. Martin (French side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. Vaccinated travelers from Canada and USA will be allowed entry as tourists at St. Martin (French Side). Unvaccinated travelers will need an imperative reason for travel.
  • St. Vincent & Grenadines – Fully-vaccinated travelers from high-risk countries (including Canada and U.S.) are required to do pre- and on-arrival testing. 48-hour quarantine required at a government-approved hotel/resort or facility. Testing upon arrival required for crew as well. Aircraft disinfection required. See full details and pre-authorization forms online.
  • Trinidad and Tobago – Fully vaccinated travelers can enter. Apply online in advance. Pre-arrival testing required. Unvaccinated travelers are banned.
  • Turks and Caicos – Open to vaccinated travelers. All travelers to the Turks and Caicos are required to obtain a TCI Assure Travel Authorization at least 24 hours prior to boarding. Travel insurance required.
  • USVI and Puerto Rico – See U.S. section above.

Latin America

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Venezuela are still operational and supporting missions.
  • Argentina – Very restricted. Can only enter with special authorization by the government. Universal Aviation Argentina is staying on top of the latest.
  • Belize – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE. Vaccinated travelers will need to still present a negative COVID-19 test result for entry.
  • Brazil – COVID test and health entry form for both crew and passengers. Crew are not exempt. Universal Aviation Brazil is following our C19 Health and Safety standards to support you safely.
  • Bolivia – U.S. passengers allowed entry for business. Travel health insurance required.
  • Chile – Until at least August 31, entry is restricted to medical, humanitarian, cargo and foreigners who have been specially authorized to enter by the Chilean diplomatic mission in their country. Travel medical insurance and quarantine required. Universal Aviation Chile is staying on top of the latest.
  • Colombia – International passengers are allowed to arrive in Colombia. CHECK MIG form required on the Colombian Immigration website. SKBO, SKCG, SKRG, and SKCL are open to accept flights from the U.S., Ecuador, Mexico, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Curacao, and Panama.
  • Costa Rica – Open. No quarantine is required. All passengers and crew must have travel insurance, unless fully vaccinated, and complete this health form in advance.
  • Ecuador – Is permitting persons to enter, but if you are coming from Brazil or India you will need to quarantine. Health form required. For mainland airports, no test required with proof of both vaccine doses. Galapagos airports SEGS and SEST still require a test.
  • El Salvador – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open. No quarantine. Travelers with proof of COVID-19 immunization are not required to present a negative COVID-19 test result for entry.
  • Falkland Islands – Business flights require special invitation letter. Quarantine and periodic COVID testing required, no exemptions. Leisure flights possible if transiting direct to a private vessel. Contact locator form required. Adequate aeromedical insurance is recommended.
  • Guatemala – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE for entry. Open. No quarantine with proof of a negative COVID-19 test result. Health screening on arrival.
  • Guyana – COVID test required for entry. No quarantine.
  • Honduras – Open for business flights. Quarantine not required with proof of a negative test. COVID test on departure required. Travelers with proof of vaccination may be exempt from the testing requirement.
  • Nicaragua – Open. No quarantine. Local contact, aircraft sanitization certificate, and traveler declaration form required.
  • Panama – Open. Quarantine required. Quarantine may be avoided depending on the 14-day travel history. Travelers with digital vaccine certificates proving they have been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior and have a negative COVID test in their IATA Travel Pass will be exempt from further testing requirements at the airport. Must complete an online registration form.
  • Paraguay – Paraguay is open for flights. Proof of Medical insurance required. Health card required.
  • Peru – Reopened for international flights with the exception of those who have been on Brazil, South Africa, or India in the past 14 days.
  • Suriname – Flights require government approval. Health insurance and quarantine required. Aircraft Disinfection Required.
  • Uruguay – Foreign non-residents can enter with special authorization issued by the government and a valid reason to travel. Vaccinated passengers will be exempt from quarantine. Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage is required.
  • Venezuela – Accessible with approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Quarantine at government facility required, up to 14 days. Aircraft Disinfection is required.

Europe

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Ireland, UK, France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey are all open and supporting missions.
    • Reopen Europe has improved its online tool for helping you assess entry requirements into the EU based on your trip scenario.
    • The EU has removed the U.S. from its “safe list” as of August 2021. See details:
      • This is guidance only and non-binding. Each EU member country will choose if, how, and when they want to follow this.
      • So far, we’ve seen no impact or restriction changes because of the announcement.
      • The EU specifically cited restricting “non-essential” travel in its recommendation, leaving the door open for business travel. Earlier in the pandemic, each country interpreted essential vs non-essential differently – with many allowing most business-purpose flights.
      • This news has no impact on ops to the UK, as it is no longer an EU member post BREXIT.
      • Bottom line is this news does NOT mean, U.S. travelers can no longer get into Europe. It just makes proper planning and staying on top of the latest regulations even more essential.
    • European countries that are accessible to passengers from the U.S. and other countries not on the EC’s list include:
      • Albania – Open. Health screening upon arrival. Travelers will require one of the following: proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test result.
      • Austria – Open. Immunized U.S. travelers can enter for leisure, without testing or self-isolation. Unvaccinated travelers from 7 countries will have to self-isolate. Some nonessential travel is prohibited. See entry details online.
      • Belarus – Accessible. Travelers from this list of countries will likely have to self-quarantine.
      • Belgium – Open. Immunized travelers (vaccines approved by the European Medicines Agency – EMA) originating from Green Zones, Orange Zones or Red Zones will be allowed entry. The U.S. has been removed the safe list, and the local ground handler is reporting that CDC vaccine certificates are no longer being accepted. There are a lot of nuances to the regs, so consult with us on specifics and options. See specific entry details.
      • Bosnia and Herzegovina – U.S. citizens are allowed entry with a negative COVID test, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery.
      • Bulgaria – U.S. citizens are allowed entry with a negative COVID test, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery.
      • Croatia – Open for tourism with negative test, vaccine, or proof of recovery. Travelers from Cyprus, India, Russia, and the UK must have pre-arrival negative Covid-19 test, regardless of vaccine status. Our Universal Aviation offices in Italy are helping coordinate arrangements to enter Croatia for customers.
      • Cyprus – Travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery are allowed to enter. See details here. In addition, the country is following this traffic light system. Non-vaccinated travelers must take a PCR test every 7 days while in country.
      • Czech Republic – Borders are open to nationals of all EU-associated countries and USA provided travelers can provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test OR proof of full vaccination or recovery from COVID-19.
      • Denmark – Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other Green/Yellow/Orange or OECD category countries can enter without testing or quarantine. There are additional paths in for non-vaccinated travelers. See detailed entry requirements. (Note: Captcha required to access site.)
      • Estonia – Fully-vaccinated travelers can enter. Testing not required with vaccination.
      • Finland – As part of its phased reopening, vaccinated travelers from all countries (including the United States) are now permitted to enter Finland. To qualify as a vaccinated traveler, you must have received the last dose of a valid COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to arrival. Non-vaccinated travelers from the United States are permitted to enter Finland for essential reasons only.
      • France – Open for tourism to fully vaccinated non-EU citizens from countries not on the red list. U.S. and Canada sit on the Green List (least restrictive). Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter France for any reason. Our blog article has the full details.
        • France is the first EU country to offer a digital health pass for vaccinated non-EU citizens/residents. However, we’re getting reports it’s a slow process to obtain this. We’ve received on the ground intel that most establishments will accept a vaccine card. Read details here.
        • France now requires that passengers on domestic legs provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative PCR test. In addition, crew are required to provide this as of Aug. 30. This does not change active crew health entry requirements for international ops into France; just domestic legs in country.
      • Germany – U.S. travelers are allowed for tourism with either a negative test, proof of vaccination, or recent (6 month) proof of recovery. Quarantine can be bypassed with proof of vaccination or proof of recovery.
      • Greece – Open to U.S. travelers that are vaccinated OR those who have a negative PCR test result taken 72 hours before arrival. PLF form needs to be filled out at least 24 hours prior to arrival. Travel back and forth from the mainland to islands or vice versa requires PCR test or proof of vaccination. Indoor dining requires proof of vaccine or negative COVID test. Our FBO ground support offices in Greece are ready to support you.
      • Greenland – Open with prior permission. Proof of vaccination and negative COVID test required for entry.
      • Hungary – U.S. persons can travel to Hungary for essential business. An invitation letter from the receiving party should be submitted in advance for approval. All U.S. passengers approved in for essential business don’t require COVID testing or quarantine.
      • Iceland – Open to travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery. Pre-arrival COVID test also required as of July 27. Full details online.
      • Ireland – Our Universal Aviation offices in Dublin and Shannon can assist.
        • Since July 19, fully-vaccinated travelers from the EU, UK, U.S., and other low risk countries are allowed to enter without testing or quarantine. See full details online.
        • Related to above, since July 19, Ireland is participating in the EU’s Digital Green Pass Program, allowing pass holders with proof of vaccination, recovery, or recent test result.
        • This pre-departure testing provider is available at EIDW for travelers headed to the U.S.
        • U.S. CBP Preclearance is open at Shannon/EINN for GA; however, hours have changed again. Read our blog for details and ops procedures.
        • Shannon has an onsite COVID testing program providing quick turnaround. Appointments are required and can be booked online at https://rocdochealthcheck.ie.
      • Italy – Open to U.S. and Canadian citizens for tourism. Open to vaccinated travelers from the UK. Must have the following: 1) proof of vaccination or recovery, AND 2) proof of negative COVID test. Universal Aviation Italy is ready to support your missions.
      • Latvia – Open for leisure. Passengers who have been in the EU, EEA, Switzerland, UK, or U.S. for the past 14 days and have proof of vaccine approved by European Medicines Agency or WHO are exempt from pre-arrival Covid-19 testing and quarantine.
      • Macedonia – Open. Effective Sep 1, all persons arriving in North Macedonia will need to present either a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before entry, proof of full vaccination, or proof of having recovered from COVID-19 within the previous 45 days.
      • Malta – Immunized travelers from the USA, which is on the Red list, will be allowed entry.
      • Moldova – Effective Aug 18, international travelers are required to present proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test result to enter.
      • Montenegro – Open to U.S. citizens. Aircraft disinfection required.
      • Netherlands – As of Sept 4, the U.S. has been designated on the very high risk list. U.S. travelers will only be able enter the Netherlands if they are fully vaccinated and fall under one of the 23 exemption categories for the EU entry ban. They are also required to quarantine for 10 days on arrival, and they must also show proof of a negative COVID test result. Proof of recovery or vaccination is no longer be sufficient to be exempt from pre-travel negative test. Non-EU/Schengen passengers transiting from high-risk, hotspot countries are very restricted.
      • Norway – Open to Green List EU countries without quarantine. We’re expecting to soon hear about plans for easing to the U.S. soon.
      • Poland – Allowed travelers, including U.S. citizens, with an EU-approved vaccine OR proof of recovery are exempt from quarantine. U.S. traveler entering with only a proof of negative test result will need to quarantine. The updated flight ban list can be found online.
      • Portugal – Officially open to tourism, including U.S./Canadian travelers. Proof of a negative COVID test result is required. Travelers from the UK require proof of vaccination or quarantine for 14 days. Note: Effective July 1, Portugal has implemented a new carbon tax for charter ops.
      • Russia – Allowing international travelers from a number of countries, including the U.S. and Mexico. Pre-arrival PCR test required. Canadians are still prohibited.
      • Serbia – U.S. citizens can enter for business or tourism. No quarantine required. Fully vaccinated travelers from some EU countries are exempt from providing negative COVID-19 test results for entry.
      • Slovak Republic – PCR test and quarantine required for entry. Immunized business travelers with acceptable reason for business can be exempted from quarantine. Travelers from the EU and Schengen region are not required to test or quarantine with proof of vaccine. Travelers from Green countries can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test at any time after arrival. Travelers from Red countries (including USA) can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test on the fifth day of quarantine.
      • Slovenia – Open for travelers from countries not on the red list. The U.S. has been moved to GREEN, allowing entry with proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test.
      • Spain – Open to fully-vaccinated U.S. travelers. Unvaccinated U.S. travelers will require reason a compelling reason to enter.
      • Sweden – U.S. residents can only enter indirectly via another EU country. Proof of vaccination and negative COVID test required. More details here.
      • Switzerland – Open to U.S. and Canadian travelers. Proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative test result required. Quarantine only required for visitors if they have been to any of these countries (note that U.S is NOT on this list) at any time within the last 14 days before entering Switzerland.
      • Turkey – Travelers from high-risk countries (none of which are EU, UK, US, or Canada) must quarantine. Immunized U.S. travelers do not require a pre-arrival COVID test. Other than the high-risk countries above, Turkey remains open on the Mediterranean to Private/Business flights (including leisure) regardless the country of registration and/or nationality of passenger. Our Universal Aviation office in Turkey can provide assistance.
      • Ukraine – Open. Travelers who have completed the vaccine process are exempt from presenting a negative Covid-19 test on arrival. All unvaccinated travelers must undergo 10 days of self-isolation, which can be ended early by passing a second COVID-19 test. Medical insurance and tracer app required. Aircraft disinfection required. Read more online.
      • UK – Accessible. See section below for more details.
    • UK –
      • UK entry requirements – Travelers must follow the UK’s Red, Amber, and Green list rules for entering the UK. NOTE: Effective Aug 8, the country classification list will change, allowing more access for travelers from India, Qatar, UAE and other countries. Mexico will be more restricted.
        • Fully vaccinated travelers from Green List countries don’t require quarantine.
        • Fully vaccinated travelers from the EU and U.S. can enter the UK from an Amber List country using Green list country rules, which means:
          • Test prior to arrival (lateral flow or PCR)
          • Complete pax locator form and book/take a day 2 COVID test (booked in advance via the official UK website)
          • No quarantine
        • Unvaccinated travelers from Amber List countries, except UK residents, must quarantine and take COVID-19 tests on the second and eighth days of their quarantine period.
        • International visitors who have visited or transited through any Red list country in the previous 10 days will be refused entry into England. Only British and Irish citizens, or those with residence rights in the UK, will be allowed to enter, and they must stay in a government approved quarantine facility for 10 days, which has to be booked prior to travel.
      • The UK may soon begin to require COVID passes for entry to night clubs and indoor venues. Nothing official yet.
      • Luton’s Night Slot Ban (June 1 – Sept. 30) – London’s Luton Airport announced a new Night Slot Ban is taking effect June 1 through Sept. 30, between the hours of 2200Z to 0600Z. London-Stansted Airport will be the preferred alternative. Read full details on our blog.
      • RAF Northolt Airport in London has extended its M-F operating hours by three hours to 0800-2000L. This is a big deal because as the closest GA-accessible to central London, as well as the closest airport to Heathrow, these longer hours make it a much better option for international operators. Universal Aviation Northolt worked hard to make this happen.
      • Don’t miss your UK-APD payments – Passenger flights out of the UK are subject to Air Passenger Duty (UK-APD) payments, and many operators forget to pay these within the 7-day deadline. Since we have a local office, we can monitor and manage any payments owed on your behalf. Just send a request to our Global Regulatory Team to get started. It’s a fast and easy setup process.
      • A new emissions reporting scheme now applies as a result of Brexit – UK-ETS. If you need help with your UK-ETS monitoring and reporting, we can make this easy for you. Contact our Global Regulatory team directly.


Updated Monday, September 6, 2021, 09:00 AM EST

United States

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • U.S. – No updates. Presidential proclamations remain in place.
    • On Jan. 12, 2021, the U.S. CDC issued an order requiring proof of a negative viral COVID-19 test (NAAT/PCR or antigen), or medical proof of recovery, for anyone arriving from a foreign country to the U.S. The order went into effect Jan. 26, 2021 for ALL flights, including private flight and GA aircraft. Key points:
      • Only ACTIVE crew members are EXEMPT. You can find the full definition of ACTIVE CREW and some analysis on the various exemption scenarios that we’ve been asked about on our website.
      • Passengers must show aircraft operator proof of negative result, taken with 3 days of boarding, or of recovery prior to boarding.
      • U.S. CDC Approves Home Test for Int’l Arrivals – On May 7, the CDC updated its Order to allow self-administered COVID tests (aka home tests) to qualify for int’l arrivals to the U.S. Note that the CDC has guidance on what home tests will be allowed.
      • Operators of private flights and general aviation must maintain passenger Attestations (i.e., declaration forms) for 2 years. Note: While the operator needs to see the test result, only the Attestations (which can be captured digitally) must be kept on file. We are providing free pre-populated Attestation forms on Universal-managed trips in-bound to the U.S. Ask us for details.
      • The CDC’s website has more information on the order, including the official announcement and FAQs.
      • Note FAA NOTAM reinforcing the CDC order.
    • U.S. Presidential Proclamations remain in place: On April 30, the U.S. travel restrictions were extended to include India. All non-U.S. travelers who have recently been in Brazil, India, South Africa, and most EU countries, including the UK and Ireland, are restricted.
      • CBP has published a bulletin announcing a variety of U.S. visa holders have been granted blanket national interest exceptions to the current entry restrictions on travelers from suspended regions. Note: B1 and B2 visas are not exempt; HOWEVER, read next bullet.
      • The U.S. State Department quietly released a buried update allowing National Interest Waivers (NIWs) to be issued to foreign crew seeking entry to the U.S. for the purposes of training or aircraft pickup, delivery, or maintenance – despite their travel history. Crew must have a B-1/B-2, B-1, or M-1 visa, or Visa Waiver Program authorization to qualify. This is a big one many in the business aviation community have been asking for. We have extensive expertise with NIWs and can assist.
      • All stops in suspended regions, overnight or just tech stops, are treated the same.
      • Entry by any non-U.S. foreign national (that includes Canadian and Mexican citizens) who has been in a suspended region over the past 14 days is HIGHLY RESTRICTED and will be denied, with few exceptions.
    • Expired U.S. Passports for Return Travel – CBP issued this bulletin announcing that U.S. citizens holding a U.S. passport that expired on or after January 1, 2020 may still be able to use their expired U.S. passport for direct return travel to the United States until December 31, 2021.
    • New U.S CBP Documentation Provided for Arrivals – Effective April 26, Part 91 arrivals into the U.S will begin receiving this new document [PDF] with their landing rights packages at select ports. It basically covers roles and responsibilities for both operator and CBP for int’l arrivals. NO ACTION is needed when you get this. It’s just good-to-know info to have in your back pocket.
    • U.S. APIS Update: All GA travelers are now required to provide additional details, including primary phone number and email address, for contact tracing purposes when coming from Guinea or the DROC in response to Ebola. Scheduled airlines have already been doing this. Airport funneling from these destinations is also in effect. While these destinations aren’t the most popular for GA travel, it’s not unlikely that we could see the APIS data collection portion of this requirement expanded to cover arrivals from more countries (e.g., for contact tracing other diseases). Note that Private and Charter flights will have different processes for complying with this based on how APIS information is currently transmitted for each of these two flight types. Read more about this on our blog.
    • Applications for signatory carrier status under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are still being processed. All U.S.-based operators (including some international companies with U.S. subsidiaries) and non-U.S. commercial operators are eligible to apply. If you are not a signatory carrier and qualify, we recommend you apply to increase your operating flexibility. We can help.
    • The National Interest Waiver (NIW) is another avenue foreign nationals can seek for entry into the U.S. and can be an effective means of entry. Allowed purposes of visit include Business, Education, Training, and Medical. Application for entry is available for the following U.S. AOEs: KLAX, KEWR, KDFW, KJFK, and KIAH, as well as through the U.S. Embassy in France and the UK. Our Global Regulatory Services team has worked out the repeatable process to apply at each of these and can provide support.
    • On June 29, the U.S. extended the validity for National Interest Exemptions (NIEs) for travelers from China, Iran, Brazil, S. Africa, the Schengen Area, UK, Ireland, and India by 12 months. Details here.
    • The U.S. STEP Program is an important risk mitigation program that U.S. nationals should be using on every international trip, especially now with COVID. When the first wave hit and we saw the massive wave of lockdowns, this program helped get people on the U.S. Embassy’s evacuation list to return home. It has a whole host of other benefits like if you lose your passport or have medical issues, if there is a terrorist incident or civil unrest, etc. Our Global Regulatory Services team offers an optional, turnkey STEP Registration Service for your trips with us.
    • Any operator entering the U.S. from the south should be taking advantage of the CBP’s Border Overflight Exemption (BOE) program to avoid having to make an extra stop at the first designated AOE when returning home. A BOE is good for 2 years, and it greatly increases your operational flexibility. We can take care of this for you.
    • Non-U.S. charter (non-scheduled commercial) operators flying to/from the U.S. with less than 12 flights per year MUST have a DOT Part 375 Ops Permit and/or Special Authorization. We can assist.
    • Advise passengers and crew to continue maintaining a 14-day travel history log of the countries, states, and cities they visit. This is critical for both travel into the U.S., within it, and abroad.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.
    • Hawaii – Travelers who have been vaccinated in the United States, may enter Hawaii without a negative COVID-19 test. International travelers still require a COVID test at one of Hawaii’s approved testing providers. Additional easing on local restrictions expected as vaccination numbers rise.
    • Puerto Rico – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. See details at www.travelsafe.pr.gov or www.viajaseguro.pr.gov. Proof of negative COVID test required to avoid quarantine. Crew are exempt.
    • USVI – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. Visit the USVI Travel Screening Portal and fill out the info requested in advance. Additional information and testing requirements available on https://usviupdate.com/. Our preferred ground handler at TIST, Standard Aviation, has parking availability and can provide air transfers to neighboring Caribbean islands.
    • Alaska – Alaska’s travel mandates and orders are now just travel advisories. Full entry details online.

Canada 

  • Effective August 9, Fully-vaccinated U.S. citizens and residents can enter with proof of a negative COVID test, without having to quarantine. Read details here. Canada plans to extend this exemption other fully-vaccinated foreign nationals, effective September 7.
  • Gander (CYQX) Update: Effective Aug 11, travelers on East bound flights directly departing the U.S. are allowed to disembark during the tech stop if 1) vaccinated, 2) have a negative COVID test, and 3) have completed ArriveCan in advance. This does not apply to West bound flights from Europe or return flights.
  • All travelers are required to provide their COVID-related information, in advance, via ArriveCAN app or website.
  • Canada has this online tool to help you assess if you can enter the country.
  • Airport Funneling in Effect – All international passenger flights, including those from the U.S., are required to enter Canada through one of the following nine funneling airports: CYYZ/Toronto, CYVR/Vancouver, CYUL/Montreal, and CYYC/Calgary, Edmonton/CYEG, Winnipeg/CYWG, Ottawa/CYOW, Quebec/CYQB, and Halifax/CYHZ. Initial announcement for the first 4 airports. Announcement on the 5 added in August. Medevac, ferry and crew repatriation flights, cargo-only flights, and tech stops where no passengers disembark are exempt.
  • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Sept. 21, 2021. Note: This does not apply to air travel.

Mexico

  • Mexico – No major updates.
    • Mexico is open and accessible. Popular tourist destinations like Los Cabos, Cozumel, PV, and Cancun are active with flights.
    • Our ground handing teams in Mexico (Mexico City/Toluca, Los Cabos, Cancun, Cozumel, PV, Monterrey, etc.) are available to support your missions.
    • AFAC remains closed but is processing AOC renewals and modifications, one time permits, blanket permit modifications, and blanket permit verifications remotely/online. Note that AFAC is working under reduced staffing hours, so application processing will take longer than normal. For assistance with your Mexico permits, we can help.
    • There is a no-touch Covid-19 health assessment form, which is required on arrival/departure. After completing the form, print or screen cap the QR code that is generated for easy access. You’ll need to present this to the health inspectors upon arrival into Mexico. Here is the link: https://afac.hostingerapp.com – Note that you need to actually copy/paste it into your browser; just clicking it will throw an error. A 14-day quarantine at residence may be necessary; however, popular tourist zones in the typical vacation cities (e.g., Cancun, Los Cabos, PV, Cozumel) are excluded.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.
    • The Mexican government has established an epidemiological traffic light monitoring system based on the number of cases and risk of contagion to manage the relaxing of restrictions. The status of it varies from state to state.

Caribbean

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • Anguilla – Open. Only open to fully vaccinated travelers. Pre- and on-arrival testing required. Quarantine 24 hours until result is known. If negative, you are free to move about island.
  • Antigua and Barbuda – Fully vaccinated tourist \ travelers, do not have to quarantine. However, both they AND crew are required to have a proof of a negative COVID test taken prior to arrival. See official website for details.
  • Aruba – Aruba is accepting flights from all U.S. states. The pre-arrival COVID test requirement has been reinstated for vaccinated travelers. Aruba’s Digital Embarkation-Disembarkation Card (ED card) and health insurance are required.
  • Bahamas – Open. FULLY-VACCINATED TRAVELERS are no longer exempt from the requirement to provide a negative PCR test prior to arrival; testing required prior to arrival for ALL travelers. No quarantine required. This electronic health visa must be completed. Health insurance is required. More info at the Office of the Prime Minister and Reopen Bahamas.
  • Barbados – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers will only need to quarantine 1 day. Pre- and on-arrival testing required, unless coming from a designated “travel bubble” Caribbean island. Quarantine 24 hours until test result is known, after which you are free to move about the island. See details online.
  • Bermuda – Open. Vaccinated travelers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result to enter. They will also l be tested on arrival and must quarantine until results are known (about 24 hours). Then they will be released from quarantine and free to move around. Unvaccinated travelers must quarantine a full 14 days on a gov’t approved location.
  • Bonaire – Open to U.S travelers. Check with us for latest. Must complete a Health Declaration Form at www.bonairepublichealth.org. Quarantine is required unless traveling from “low-risk countries.”.
  • British Virgin Islands (BVI) – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for tourism. Testing pre-arrival, on-arrival, and on day 4 required. Details online. Form must be submitted in advance of arrival on the BVI Gateway Traveller’s Authorization Portal. Contact tracer app required. Immunized travelers will be tested on arrival. Once arrival test result is known, immunized traveler will be exempt from 7-day quarantine. Health insurance is required.
  • Cayman Islands – Cayman authorities announced that on Sept 9, they will allow limited tourism of vaccinated travelers to resume. Pre-arrival PCR tests will be required. Until then, travelers from Canada, EU and the U.S. with securely verifiable vaccination records are allowed entry with a 5 day quarantine. Effective Oct 14, verified vaccinated travelers will no longer need to quarantine. See website for more details.
  • Cuba – Certain parts of country are open for tourism. U.S. sanctions still apply. COVID-19 test upon arrival. Quarantine is required.
  • Curacao – Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and these other countries are permitted to enter Curacao. Pre-arrival COVID test required to enter.
  • Dominica – Open; however, entry requirements, disembarkation, and quarantine protocols vary depending on the country-of-origin’s risk level (CARICOM Travel Bubble, Low Risk, Medium Risk, High Risk) and whether or not travelers are vaccinated. U.S. sits on high risk, but vaccinated travelers who test negative during the post-arrival can proceed quarantine free. COVID test on arrival required for all travelers, regardless of vaccination status. Full details online.
  • Dominican Republic – Open to international passengers. Passengers who present a vaccination card and/or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in the Dominican Republic will be exempted from the random test. Universal Aviation DR is open and supporting missions.
  • Grenada – Open. Apply for approval online. Expect to quarantine. Tracer app required. More information online. Persons providing proof of full vaccination will only be required to quarantine for up to 48 hours, pending a negative result from a PCR test administered upon entry.
  • Guadeloupe – French territory. Open for leisure to vaccinated U.S. travelers and pre-arrival COVID test required.
  • Haiti – Open. No quarantine required for vaccinated travelers.
  • Jamaica – Open. All foreign crew and passengers must obtain travel authorization online prior to arrival. COVID-19 PCR or antigen test on arrival for travelers from high risk countries, like the U.S., at cost of $150 USD. Travelers from India, Trinidad, and six South American countries are prohibited. Quarantine required for length of stay or 14 days, in either a residence or tourist zone (“Resilient Corridor”). Fully vaccinated travelers have the option to shorten their mandatory 8-day quarantine by taking an additional (RT-PCR) for COVID-19 on arrival and with a negative result will be released from quarantine. See full details online.
  • Martinique – French territory – Open to vaccinated U.S. travelers for leisure. Proof of negative COVID test results required for entry.
  • St. Barts – French territory – Open for vaccinated travelers. Negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. Must complete online Health entry form prior to entry.
  • St. Lucia – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers exempt from quarantine. More info online.
  • St. Kitts & Nevis – Open. All travelers who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 must remain in quarantine for at least four days and take a COVID-19 PCR test on the fourth day to exit quarantine. Pre-arrival test and health app required. Details online.
  • Sint Maarten (Dutch side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. However, TNCM falls on the Netherlands side. The Netherlands side is enacting stricter restrictions for passengers from “high-risk” countries. Travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter. Check with us for details based on your specific flight scenario.
  • St. Martin (French side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. Vaccinated travelers from Canada and USA will be allowed entry as tourists at St. Martin (French Side). Unvaccinated travelers will need an imperative reason for travel.
  • St. Vincent & Grenadines – Fully-vaccinated travelers from high-risk countries (including Canada and U.S.) are required to do pre- and on-arrival testing. 48-hour quarantine required at a government-approved hotel/resort or facility. Testing upon arrival required for crew as well. Aircraft disinfection required. See full details and pre-authorization forms online.
  • Trinidad and Tobago – Fully vaccinated travelers can enter. Apply online in advance. Pre-arrival testing required. Unvaccinated travelers are banned.
  • Turks and Caicos – Open to vaccinated travelers. All travelers to the Turks and Caicos are required to obtain a TCI Assure Travel Authorization at least 24 hours prior to boarding. Travel insurance required.
  • USVI and Puerto Rico – See U.S. section above.

Latin America

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Venezuela are still operational and supporting missions.
  • Argentina – Very restricted. Can only enter with special authorization by the government. Universal Aviation Argentina is staying on top of the latest.
  • Belize – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE. Vaccinated travelers will need to still present a negative COVID-19 test result for entry.
  • Brazil – COVID test and health entry form for both crew and passengers. Crew are not exempt. Universal Aviation Brazil is following our C19 Health and Safety standards to support you safely.
  • Bolivia – U.S. passengers allowed entry for business. Travel health insurance required.
  • Chile – Until at least August 31, entry is restricted to medical, humanitarian, cargo and foreigners who have been specially authorized to enter by the Chilean diplomatic mission in their country. Travel medical insurance and quarantine required. Universal Aviation Chile is staying on top of the latest.
  • Colombia – International passengers are allowed to arrive in Colombia. CHECK MIG form required on the Colombian Immigration website. SKBO, SKCG, SKRG, and SKCL are open to accept flights from the U.S., Ecuador, Mexico, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Curacao, and Panama.
  • Costa Rica – Open. No quarantine is required. All passengers and crew must have travel insurance, unless fully vaccinated, and complete this health form in advance.
  • Ecuador – Is permitting persons to enter, but if you are coming from Brazil or India you will need to quarantine. Health form required. For mainland airports, no test required with proof of both vaccine doses. Galapagos airports SEGS and SEST still require a test.
  • El Salvador – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open. No quarantine. Travelers with proof of COVID-19 immunization are not required to present a negative COVID-19 test result for entry.
  • Falkland Islands – Business flights require special invitation letter. Quarantine and periodic COVID testing required, no exemptions. Leisure flights possible if transiting direct to a private vessel. Contact locator form required. Adequate aeromedical insurance is recommended.
  • Guatemala – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE for entry. Open. No quarantine with proof of a negative COVID-19 test result. Health screening on arrival.
  • Guyana – COVID test required for entry. No quarantine.
  • Honduras – Open for business flights. Quarantine not required with proof of a negative test. COVID test on departure required. Travelers with proof of vaccination may be exempt from the testing requirement.
  • Nicaragua – Open. No quarantine. Local contact, aircraft sanitization certificate, and traveler declaration form required.
  • Panama – Open. Quarantine required. Quarantine may be avoided depending on the 14-day travel history. Travelers with digital vaccine certificates proving they have been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior and have a negative COVID test in their IATA Travel Pass will be exempt from further testing requirements at the airport. Must complete an online registration form.
  • Paraguay – Paraguay is open for flights. Proof of Medical insurance required. Health card required.
  • Peru – Reopened for international flights with the exception of those who have been on Brazil, South Africa, or India in the past 14 days.
  • Suriname – Flights require government approval. Health insurance and quarantine required. Aircraft Disinfection Required.
  • Uruguay – Foreign non-residents can enter with special authorization issued by the government and a valid reason to travel. Vaccinated passengers will be exempt from quarantine. Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage is required.
  • Venezuela – Accessible with approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Quarantine at government facility required, up to 14 days. Aircraft Disinfection is required

Europe

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Ireland, UK, France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey are all open and supporting missions.
  • Reopen Europe has improved its online tool for helping you assess entry requirements into the EU based on your trip scenario.
  • The EU has removed the U.S. from its “safe list” as of August 2021. See details:
    • This is guidance only and non-binding. Each EU member country will choose if, how, and when they want to follow this.
    • So far, we’ve seen no impact or restriction changes because of the announcement.
    • The EU specifically cited restricting “non-essential” travel in its recommendation, leaving the door open for business travel. Earlier in the pandemic, each country interpreted essential vs non-essential differently – with many allowing most business-purpose flights.
    • This news has no impact on ops to the UK, as it is no longer an EU member post BREXIT.
    • Bottom line is this news does NOT mean, U.S. travelers can no longer get into Europe. It just makes proper planning and staying on top of the latest regulations even more essential.
  • European countries that are accessible to passengers from the U.S. and other countries not on the EC’s list include:
    • Albania – Open. Health screening upon arrival.
    • Austria – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open. Immunized U.S. travelers can enter for leisure, without testing or self-isolation. Unvaccinated travelers from 7 countries will have to self-isolate. Some nonessential travel is prohibited. See entry details online.
    • Belarus – Accessible. Travelers from this list of countries will likely have to self-quarantine.
    • Belgium – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open. Immunized travelers (vaccines approved by the European Medicines Agency – EMA) originating from Green Zones (including U.S.), Orange Zones or Red Zones within EU will be allowed entry for nonessential travel. No quarantine required with negative test, proof of vaccination or recovery. Immunized travelers originating from Red Zone outside EU and Very High Risk Zone (Variants of Concern) will quarantine. See specific entry details.
    • Bosnia and Herzegovina – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: U.S. citizens are allowed entry with a negative COVID test, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery.
    • Bulgaria – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: U.S. citizens are allowed entry with a negative COVID test, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery.
    • Croatia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for tourism with negative test, vaccine, or proof of recovery. Travelers from Cyprus, India, Russia, and the UK must have pre-arrival negative Covid-19 test, regardless of vaccine status. Our Universal Aviation offices in Italy are helping coordinate arrangements to enter Croatia for customers.
    • Cyprus – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery are allowed to enter. See details here. In addition, the country is following this traffic light system. Non-vaccinated travelers must take a PCR test every 7 days while in country.
    • Czech Republic – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Borders are open to nationals of all EU-associated countries and USA provided travelers can provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test OR proof of full vaccination or recovery from COVID-19.
    • Denmark – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other Green/Yellow/Orange or OECD category countries can enter without testing or quarantine. There are additional paths in for non-vaccinated travelers. See detailed entry requirements. (Note: Captcha required to access site.)
    • Estonia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other safe countries can enter for any reason. Testing not required with vaccination.
    • Finland – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: As part of its phased reopening, vaccinated travelers from all countries (including the United States) are now permitted to enter Finland. To qualify as a vaccinated traveler, you must have received the last dose of a valid COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to arrival. Non-vaccinated travelers from the United States are permitted to enter Finland for essential reasons only.
    • France – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for tourism to fully vaccinated non-EU citizens from countries not on the red list. U.S. and Canada sit on the Green List (least restrictive). Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter France for any reason. Our blog article has the full details.
      • France is the first EU country to offer a digital health pass for vaccinated non-EU citizens/residents. Read details here.
      • France now requires that passengers on domestic legs provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative PCR test. In addition, crew will be required to provide this effective Aug. 30. This does not change active crew health entry requirements for international ops into France; just domestic legs in country.
    • Germany – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: U.S. travelers are allowed for tourism with either a negative test, proof of vaccination, or recent (6 month) proof of recovery. Quarantine can be bypassed with proof of vaccination or proof of recovery.
    • Greece – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open to U.S. travelers that are vaccinated OR those who have a negative PCR test result taken 72 hours before arrival. PLF form needs to be filled out at least 24 hours prior to arrival. Travel back and forth from the mainland to islands or vice versa requires PCR test or proof of vaccination. Indoor dining requires proof of vaccine or negative COVID test. More local businesses are expected to require proof of vaccination for entry starting Sept 1. Our FBO ground support offices in Greece are ready to support you. Be sure to submit your parking requests ASAP for best options during Mediterranean summer peak season. Our Greek Islands destination guide has more details.
    • Greenland – Open with prior permission. Proof of vaccination and negative COVID test required for entry.
    • Hungary – U.S. persons can travel to Hungary for essential business. An invitation letter from the receiving party should be submitted in advance for approval. All U.S. passengers approved in for essential business don’t require COVID testing or quarantine.
    • Iceland – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open to travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery. Pre-arrival COVID test also required as of July 27. Full details online.
    • Ireland – Our Universal Aviation offices in Dublin and Shannon can assist.
      • Since July 19, fully-vaccinated travelers from the EU, UK, U.S., and other low risk countries are allowed to enter without testing or quarantine. See full details online.
      • Related to above, since July 19, Ireland is participating in the EU’s Digital Green Pass Program, allowing pass holders with proof of vaccination, recovery, or recent test result.
      • This pre-departure testing provider is available at EIDW for travelers headed to the U.S.
      • U.S. CBP Preclearance is open at Shannon/EINN for GA; however, hours have changed again. Read our blog for details and ops procedures.
      • Shannon has an onsite COVID testing program providing quick turnaround. Appointments are required and can be booked online at https://rocdochealthcheck.ie.
    • Italy – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open to U.S. and Canadian citizens for tourism. Open to vaccinated travelers from the UK. Must have one of the following: proof of vaccination, negative test, or proof of recovery. See our blog for details. Universal Aviation Italy is ready to support your missions.
    • Latvia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for leisure. Passengers who have been in the EU, EEA, Switzerland, UK, or U.S. for the past 14 days and have proof of vaccine approved by European Medicines Agency or WHO are exempt from pre-arrival Covid-19 testing and quarantine.
    • Macedonia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open. Effective Sep 1, all persons arriving in North Macedonia will need to present either a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before entry, proof of full vaccination, or proof of having recovered from COVID-19 within the previous 45 days.
    • Malta – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Immunized travelers from the USA, which is on the Red list, will be allowed entry.
    • Moldova – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Effective Aug 18, international travelers are required to present proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test result to enter.
    • Montenegro – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open to U.S. citizens. Aircraft disinfection required.
    • Netherlands – The U.S. is on the Safe Countries/Regions List. Travelers from the U.S., regardless of their nationalities, are allowed to travel from the U.S. to the Netherlands without need for pre-arrival test or quarantine. Non-EU/Schengen passengers transiting from high-risk, hotspot countries are very restricted.
    • Norway – Open to Green List EU countries without quarantine. We’re expecting to soon hear about plans for easing to the U.S. soon.
    • Poland – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE for countries on the allowed list only. Allowed travelers, including U.S. citizens, with an EU-approved vaccine OR proof of recovery are exempt from quarantine. U.S. traveler entering with only a proof of negative test result will need to quarantine. The updated flight ban list can be found online.
    • Portugal – Officially open to tourism, including U.S./Canadian travelers. A negative COVID test on arrival is required. Travelers from the UK require proof of vaccination or quarantine for 14 days. Note: Effective July 1, Portugal has implemented a new carbon tax for charter ops.
    • Russia – Allowing international travelers from a number of countries, including the U.S. and Mexico. UK travelers must self-quarantine. Pre-arrival PCR test required. Canadians are still prohibited.
    • Serbia – U.S. citizens can enter for business or tourism. No quarantine required. Fully vaccinated travelers from some EU countries are exempt from providing negative COVID-19 test results for entry.
    • Slovak Republic – PCR test and quarantine required for entry. Immunized business travelers with acceptable reason for business can be exempted from quarantine. Travelers from the EU and Schengen region are not required to test or quarantine with proof of vaccine. Travelers from Green countries can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test at any time after arrival. Travelers from Red countries (including USA) can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test on the fifth day of quarantine.
    • Slovenia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE, but only for travelers from countries not on the red list. The U.S. has been moved to GREEN, allowing entry with proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test.
    • Spain – Open. Travelers from the United States, Canada and Mexico can enter Spain for any reason. Our blog article has all the details.
    • Sweden – Sweden – U.S. residents can enter the country directly. COVID test still required. More details here.
    • Switzerland – Open to U.S. and Canadian travelers. Proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative test result required. Quarantine only required for visitors if they have been to any of these countries (note that U.S is NOT on this list) at any time within the last 14 days before entering Switzerland.
    • Turkey – Travelers from high-risk countries (none of which are EU, UK, US, or Canada) must quarantine. Immunized U.S. travelers do not require a pre-arrival COVID test. Other than the high-risk countries above, Turkey remains open on the Mediterranean to Private/Business flights (including leisure) regardless the country of registration and/or nationality of passenger. Our Universal Aviation office in Turkey can provide assistance.
    • Ukraine – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open. Travelers who have completed the vaccine process are exempt from presenting a negative Covid-19 test on arrival. All unvaccinated travelers must undergo 10 days of self-isolation, which can be ended early by passing a second COVID-19 test. Medical insurance and tracer app required. Aircraft disinfection required. Read more online.
    • UK – Accessible. See section below for more details.
  • UK –
    • UK entry requirements – Travelers must follow the UK’s Red, Amber, and Green list rules for entering the UK. NOTE: Effective Aug 8, the country classification list will change, allowing more access for travelers from India, Qatar, UAE and other countries. Mexico will be more restricted.
      • Fully vaccinated travelers from Green List countries don’t require quarantine.
      • Fully vaccinated travelers from the EU and U.S. can enter the UK from an Amber List country using Green list country rules, which means:
        • Test prior to arrival (lateral flow or PCR)
        • Complete pax locator form and book/take a day 2 COVID test
        • No quarantine
      • Unvaccinated travelers from Amber List countries, except UK residents, must quarantine and take COVID-19 tests on the second and eighth days of their quarantine period.
      • International visitors who have visited or transited through any Red list country in the previous 10 days will be refused entry into England. Only British and Irish citizens, or those with residence rights in the UK, will be allowed to enter, and they must stay in a government approved quarantine facility for 10 days, which has to be booked prior to travel.
    • The UK may soon begin to require COVID passes for entry to night clubs and indoor venues. Nothing official yet.
    • Luton’s Night Slot Ban (June 1 – Sept. 30) – London’s Luton Airport announced a new Night Slot Ban is taking effect June 1 through Sept. 30, between the hours of 2200Z to 0600Z. London-Stansted Airport will be the preferred alternative. Read full details on our blog.
    • RAF Northolt Airport in London has extended its M-F operating hours by three hours to 0800-2000L. This is a big deal because as the closest GA-accessible to central London, as well as the closest airport to Heathrow, these longer hours make it a much better option for international operators. Universal Aviation Northolt worked hard to make this happen.
    • Don’t miss your UK-APD payments – Passenger flights out of the UK are subject to Air Passenger Duty (UK-APD) payments, and many operators forget to pay these within the 7-day deadline. Since we have a local office, we can monitor and manage any payments owed on your behalf. Just send a request to our Global Regulatory Team to get started. It’s a fast and easy setup process.
    • A new emissions reporting scheme now applies as a result of Brexit – UK-ETS. If you need help with your UK-ETS monitoring and reporting, we can make this easy for you. Contact our Global Regulatory team directly.

Updated Monday, August 30, 2021, 10:00 AM EST

United States

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • U.S. – No updates. Presidential proclamations remain in place.
    • On Jan. 12, 2021, the U.S. CDC issued an order requiring proof of a negative viral COVID-19 test (NAAT/PCR or antigen), or medical proof of recovery, for anyone arriving from a foreign country to the U.S. The order went into effect Jan. 26, 2021 for ALL flights, including private flight and GA aircraft. Key points:
      • Only ACTIVE crew members are EXEMPT. You can find the full definition of ACTIVE CREW and some analysis on the various exemption scenarios that we’ve been asked about on our website.
      • Passengers must show aircraft operator proof of negative result, taken with 3 days of boarding, or of recovery prior to boarding.
      • U.S. CDC Approves Home Test for Int’l Arrivals – On May 7, the CDC updated its Order to allow self-administered COVID tests (aka home tests) to qualify for int’l arrivals to the U.S. Note that the CDC has guidance on what home tests will be allowed.
      • Operators of private flights and general aviation must maintain passenger Attestations (i.e., declaration forms) for 2 years. Note: While the operator needs to see the test result, only the Attestations (which can be captured digitally) must be kept on file. We are providing free pre-populated Attestation forms on Universal-managed trips in-bound to the U.S. Ask us for details.
      • The CDC’s website has more information on the order, including the official announcement and FAQs.
      • Note FAA NOTAM reinforcing the CDC order.
    • U.S. Presidential Proclamations remain in place: On April 30, the U.S. travel restrictions were extended to include India. All non-U.S. travelers who have recently been in Brazil, India, South Africa, and most EU countries, including the UK and Ireland, are restricted.
      • CBP has published a bulletin announcing a variety of U.S. visa holders have been granted blanket national interest exceptions to the current entry restrictions on travelers from suspended regions. Note: B1 and B2 visas are not exempt; HOWEVER, read next bullet.
      • The U.S. State Department quietly released a buried update allowing National Interest Waivers (NIWs) to be issued to foreign crew seeking entry to the U.S. for the purposes of training or aircraft pickup, delivery, or maintenance – despite their travel history. Crew must have a B-1/B-2, B-1, or M-1 visa, or Visa Waiver Program authorization to qualify. This is a big one many in the business aviation community have been asking for. We have extensive expertise with NIWs and can assist.
      • All stops in suspended regions, overnight or just tech stops, are treated the same.
      • Entry by any non-U.S. foreign national (that includes Canadian and Mexican citizens) who has been in a suspended region over the past 14 days is HIGHLY RESTRICTED and will be denied, with few exceptions.
    • Expired U.S. Passports for Return Travel – CBP issued this bulletin announcing that U.S. citizens holding a U.S. passport that expired on or after January 1, 2020 may still be able to use their expired U.S. passport for direct return travel to the United States until December 31, 2021.
    • New U.S CBP Documentation Provided for Arrivals – Effective April 26, Part 91 arrivals into the U.S will begin receiving this new document [PDF] with their landing rights packages at select ports. It basically covers roles and responsibilities for both operator and CBP for int’l arrivals. NO ACTION is needed when you get this. It’s just good-to-know info to have in your back pocket.
    • U.S. APIS Update: All GA travelers are now required to provide additional details, including primary phone number and email address, for contact tracing purposes when coming from Guinea or the DROC in response to Ebola. Scheduled airlines have already been doing this. Airport funneling from these destinations is also in effect. While these destinations aren’t the most popular for GA travel, it’s not unlikely that we could see the APIS data collection portion of this requirement expanded to cover arrivals from more countries (e.g., for contact tracing other diseases). Note that Private and Charter flights will have different processes for complying with this based on how APIS information is currently transmitted for each of these two flight types. Read more about this on our blog.
    • Applications for signatory carrier status under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are still being processed. All U.S.-based operators (including some international companies with U.S. subsidiaries) and non-U.S. commercial operators are eligible to apply. If you are not a signatory carrier and qualify, we recommend you apply to increase your operating flexibility. We can help.
    • The National Interest Waiver (NIW) is another avenue foreign nationals can seek for entry into the U.S. and can be an effective means of entry. Allowed purposes of visit include Business, Education, Training, and Medical. Application for entry is available for the following U.S. AOEs: KLAX, KEWR, KDFW, KJFK, and KIAH, as well as through the U.S. Embassy in France and the UK. Our Global Regulatory Services team has worked out the repeatable process to apply at each of these and can provide support.
    • On June 29, the U.S. extended the validity for National Interest Exemptions (NIEs) for travelers from China, Iran, Brazil, S. Africa, the Schengen Area, UK, Ireland, and India by 12 months. Details here.
    • The U.S. STEP Program is an important risk mitigation program that U.S. nationals should be using on every international trip, especially now with COVID. When the first wave hit and we saw the massive wave of lockdowns, this program helped get people on the U.S. Embassy’s evacuation list to return home. It has a whole host of other benefits like if you lose your passport or have medical issues, if there is a terrorist incident or civil unrest, etc. Our Global Regulatory Services team offers an optional, turnkey STEP Registration Service for your trips with us.
    • Any operator entering the U.S. from the south should be taking advantage of the CBP’s Border Overflight Exemption (BOE) program to avoid having to make an extra stop at the first designated AOE when returning home. A BOE is good for 2 years, and it greatly increases your operational flexibility. We can take care of this for you.
    • Non-U.S. charter (non-scheduled commercial) operators flying to/from the U.S. with less than 12 flights per year MUST have a DOT Part 375 Ops Permit and/or Special Authorization. We can assist.
    • Advise passengers and crew to continue maintaining a 14-day travel history log of the countries, states, and cities they visit. This is critical for both travel into the U.S., within it, and abroad.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.
    • Hawaii – Travelers who have been vaccinated in the United States, may enter Hawaii without a negative COVID-19 test. International travelers still require a COVID test at one of Hawaii’s approved testing providers. Additional easing on local restrictions expected as vaccination numbers rise.
    • Puerto Rico – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. See details at www.travelsafe.pr.gov or www.viajaseguro.pr.gov. Proof of negative COVID test required to avoid quarantine. Crew are exempt.
    • USVI – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. Visit the USVI Travel Screening Portal and fill out the info requested in advance. Additional information and testing requirements available on https://usviupdate.com/. Our preferred ground handler at TIST, Standard Aviation, has parking availability and can provide air transfers to neighboring Caribbean islands.

Canada 

  • Canada – No updates. Still awaiting official confirmation on additional funnel airports.
    • Canada announced plans to ease its borders for fully-vaccinated U.S. citizens and residents, effective August 9 – and other fully-vaccinated foreign nationals, effective September 7. Quarantine will no longer be required. It’s also our understanding in talking with CBAA that the intent is for mandatory pre-arrival testing to go away as well, but that’s not clearly spelled out in the regulation. We’ll be looking for more clarity on that. On-arrival testing will only be required on a randomized basis. Read full-details online. Until then, all current procedures restrictions remain in place.
    • All travelers are required to provide their COVID-related information, in advance, via ArriveCAN app or website. Travelers will continue using ArriveCAN after the August 9 border easing.
    • Canada has this online tool to help you assess if you can enter the country.
    • Canada has very strict quarantine requirements for non-citizens and residents entering the country. Active crew are exempt but need to follow these contact collection guidelines.
    • Fully-vaccinated citizens and residents returning to Canada are exempt from quarantine effective July 5. Vaccinated U.S. citizens are not exempt from quarantine.
    • Airport Funneling in Effect – All international passenger flights, including those from the U.S., are required to enter Canada through one of the following four funneling airports: CYYZ/Toronto, CYVR/Vancouver, CYUL/Montreal, and CYYC/Calgary. Medevac, ferry and crew repatriation flights, cargo-only flights, and tech stops where no passengers disembark are exempt. In addition, we’ve learned that Canada will soon add 5 more funneling airports to the 4 already in place. Those 5 new ones will be: Edmonton, Winnipeg, Ottawa, Quebec, and Halifax. It’s not official yet, but it’s coming.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.

Mexico

  • Mexico – No major updates.
    • Mexico is open and accessible. Popular tourist destinations like Los Cabos, Cozumel, PV, and Cancun are active with flights.
    • Our ground handing teams in Mexico (Mexico City/Toluca, Los Cabos, Cancun, Cozumel, PV, Monterrey, etc.) are available to support your missions.
    • AFAC remains closed but is processing AOC renewals and modifications, one time permits, blanket permit modifications, and blanket permit verifications remotely/online. Note that AFAC is working under reduced staffing hours, so application processing will take longer than normal. For assistance with your Mexico permits, we can help.
    • There is a no-touch Covid-19 health assessment form, which is required on arrival/departure. After completing the form, print or screen cap the QR code that is generated for easy access. You’ll need to present this to the health inspectors upon arrival into Mexico. Here is the link: https://afac.hostingerapp.com – Note that you need to actually copy/paste it into your browser; just clicking it will throw an error. A 14-day quarantine at residence may be necessary; however, popular tourist zones in the typical vacation cities (e.g., Cancun, Los Cabos, PV, Cozumel) are excluded.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.
    • The Mexican government has established an epidemiological traffic light monitoring system based on the number of cases and risk of contagion to manage the relaxing of restrictions. The status of it varies from state to state.

Caribbean

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • Anguilla – Open. Only open to fully vaccinated travelers. Pre- and on-arrival testing required. Quarantine 24 hours until result is known. If negative, you are free to move about island.
  • Antigua and Barbuda – Fully vaccinated tourist \ travelers, do not have to quarantine. However, both they AND crew are required to have a proof of a negative COVID test taken prior to arrival. See official website for details.
  • Aruba – Aruba is accepting flights from all U.S. states. The pre-arrival COVID test requirement has been reinstated for vaccinted travelers. Aruba’s Digital Embarkation-Disembarkation Card (ED card) and health insurance are required.
  • Bahamas – Open. FULLY-VACCINATED TRAVELERS are no longer exempt from the requirement to provide a negative PCR test prior to arrival; testing required prior to arrival for ALL travelers. No quarantine required. This electronic health visa must be completed. Health insurance is required. More info at the Office of the Prime Minister and Reopen Bahamas. Travelers who have completed their vaccine plus two weeks immunity will not be required to take COVID-19 test prior to arrival.
  • Barbados – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers will only need to quarantine 1 day. Pre- and on-arrival testing required, unless coming from a designated “travel bubble” Caribbean island. Quarantine 24 hours until test result is known, after which you are free to move about the island. See details online.
  • Bermuda – Open. Vaccinated travelers will be tested on arrival and must quarantine until results are known (about 24 hours). Then they will be released from quarantine and free to move around. Unvaccinated travelers must quarantine a full 14 days on a gov’t approved location.
  • Bonaire – Open to U.S travelers. Check with us for latest. Must complete a Health Declaration Form at www.bonairepublichealth.org. Quarantine is required unless traveling from “low-risk countries.”.
  • British Virgin Islands (BVI) – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for tourism. Testing pre-arrival, on-arrival, and on day 4 required. Details online. Form must be submitted in advance of arrival on the BVI Gateway Traveller’s Authorization Portal. Contact tracer app required. Immunized travelers will be tested on arrival. Once arrival test result is known, immunized traveler will be exempt from 7-day quarantine. Health insurance is required.
  • Cayman Islands – Cayman authorities announced that on Sept 9, they will allow limited tourism of vaccinated travelers to resume. Pre-arrival PCR tests will be required. Until then, travelers from Canada, EU and the U.S. with securely verifiable vaccination records are allowed entry with a 5 day quarantine. Effective Oct 14, verified vaccinated travelers will no longer need to quarantine. See website for more details.
  • Cuba – Certain parts of country are open for tourism. U.S. sanctions still apply. COVID-19 test upon arrival. Quarantine is required.
  • Curacao – Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and these other countries are permitted to enter Curacao. Pre-arrival COVID test required to enter.
  • Dominica – Open; however, entry requirements, disembarkation, and quarantine protocols vary depending on the country-of-origin’s risk level (CARICOM Travel Bubble, Low Risk, Medium Risk, High Risk) and whether or not travelers are vaccinated. U.S. sits on high risk, which requires quarantining at an approved “Safe in nature” luxury resort. COVID test on arrival required for all travelers, regardless of vaccination status. Full details online.
  • Dominican Republic – Open to international passengers. Passengers who present a vaccination card and/or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in the Dominican Republic will be exempted from the random test. Universal Aviation DR is open and supporting missions.
  • Grenada – Open. Apply for approval online. Expect to quarantine. Tracer app required. More information online. Persons providing proof of full vaccination will only be required to quarantine for up to 48 hours, pending a negative result from a PCR test administered upon entry.
  • Guadeloupe – French territory. Open for leisure to vaccinated U.S. travelers and pre-arrival COVID test required.
  • Haiti – Open. No quarantine required for vaccinated travelers.
  • Jamaica – Open. All foreign crew and passengers must obtain travel authorization online prior to arrival. COVID-19 PCR or antigen test on arrival for travelers from high risk countries, like the U.S., at cost of $150 USD. Travelers from India, Trinidad, and six South American countries are prohibited. Quarantine required for length of stay or 14 days, in either a residence or tourist zone (“Resilient Corridor”). Fully vaccinated travelers have the option to shorten their mandatory 8-day quarantine by taking an additional (RT-PCR) for COVID-19 on arrival and with a negative result will be released from quarantine. See full details online.
  • Martinique – French territory – Open to U.S. travelers. Preapproval required.
  • St. Barts – French territory – Open for vaccinated travelers. Negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. Must complete online Health entry form prior to entry.
  • St. Lucia – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers exempt from quarantine. More info online.
  • St. Kitts & Nevis – Open. All travelers who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 must remain in quarantine for at least four days and take a COVID-19 PCR test on the fourth day to exit quarantine. Pre-arrival test and health app required. Details online.
  • Sint Maarten (Dutch side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. However, TNCM falls on the Netherlands side. The Netherlands side is enacting stricter restrictions for passengers from “high-risk” countries. Travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter. Check with us for details based on your specific flight scenario.
  • St. Martin (French side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. French side is closed for tourism.
  • St. Vincent & Grenadines – Fully-vaccinated travelers from high-risk countries (including Canada and U.S.) are required to do pre- and on-arrival testing. 48-hour quarantine required at a government-approved hotel/resort or facility. Testing upon arrival required for crew as well. Aircraft disinfection required. See full details and pre-authorization forms online.
  • Trinidad and Tobago – Fully vaccinated travelers can enter. Apply online in advance. Pre-arrival testing required. Unvaccinated travelers are banned.
  • Turks and Caicos – Open. All travelers to the Turks and Caicos are required to obtain a TCI Assure Travel Authorization at least 24 hours prior to boarding. Persons without authorization will not be permitted to board a flight to the Turks and Caicos. Travel insurance required.
  • USVI and Puerto Rico – See U.S. section above.

Latin America

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Venezuela are still operational and supporting missions.
  • Argentina – Very restricted. Can only enter with special authorization by the government. Universal Aviation Argentina is staying on top of the latest.
  • Belize – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE. Vaccinated travelers will need to still present a negative COVID-19 test result for entry.
  • Brazil – COVID test and health entry form for both crew and passengers. Crew are not exempt. Universal Aviation Brazil is following our C19 Health and Safety standards to support you safely.
  • Bolivia – U.S. passengers allowed entry for business. Travel health insurance required.
  • Chile – Until at least August 31, entry is restricted to medical, humanitarian, cargo and foreigners who have been specially authorized to enter by the Chilean diplomatic mission in their country. Travel medical insurance and quarantine required. Universal Aviation Chile is staying on top of the latest.
  • Colombia – International passengers are allowed to arrive in Colombia. CHECK MIG form required on the Colombian Immigration website. SKBO, SKCG, SKRG, and SKCL are open to accept flights from the U.S., Ecuador, Mexico, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Curacao, and Panama.
  • Costa Rica – Open. No quarantine is required. All passengers and crew must have travel insurance, unless fully vaccinated, and complete this health form in advance.
  • Ecuador – Is permitting persons to enter, but if you are coming from Brazil or India you will need to quarantine. Health form required. For mainland airports, no test required with proof of both vaccine doses. Galapagos airports SEGS and SEST still require a test.
  • El Salvador – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open. No quarantine. Travelers with proof of COVID-19 immunization are not required to present a negative COVID-19 test result for entry.
  • Falkland Islands – Business flights require special invitation letter. Quarantine and periodic COVID testing required, no exemptions. Leisure flights possible if transiting direct to a private vessel. Contact locator form required. Adequate aeromedical insurance is recommended.
  • Guatemala – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE for entry. Open. No quarantine with proof of a negative COVID-19 test result. Health screening on arrival.
  • Guyana – COVID test required for entry. No quarantine.
  • Honduras – Open for business flights. Quarantine not required with proof of a negative test. COVID test on departure required. Travelers with proof of vaccination may be exempt from the testing requirement.
  • Nicaragua – Open. No quarantine. Local contact, aircraft sanitization certificate, and traveler declaration form required.
  • Panama – Open. Quarantine required. Quarantine may be avoided depending on the 14-day travel history. Travelers with digital vaccine certificates proving they have been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior and have a negative COVID test in their IATA Travel Pass will be exempt from further testing requirements at the airport. Must complete an online registration form.
  • Paraguay – Paraguay is open for flights. Proof of Medical insurance required. Health card required.
  • Peru – Reopened for international flights with the exception of those who have been on Brazil, South Africa, or India in the past 14 days.
  • Suriname – Flights require government approval. Health insurance and quarantine required. Aircraft Disinfection Required.
  • Uruguay – Foreign non-residents can enter with special authorization issued by the government and a valid reason to travel. Vaccinated passengers will be exempt from quarantine. Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage is required.
  • Venezuela – Accessible with approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Quarantine at government facility required, up to 14 days. Aircraft Disinfection is required.

Europe

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Ireland, UK, France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey are all open and supporting missions.
    • Reopen Europe has improved its online tool for helping you assess entry requirements into the EU based on your trip scenario.
    • European countries that are accessible to passengers from the U.S. and other countries not on the EC’s list include:
      • Albania – Open. Health screening upon arrival.
      • Austria – Open. Immunized U.S. travelers can enter for leisure, without testing or self-isolation. Flights from the UK must have valid reason for entry (e.g., business purpose, medical). Flights from Brazil and other variant hotspot countries are prohibited UFN. See entry details online.
      • Belarus – Accessible. Travelers from this list of countries will likely have to self-quarantine.
      • Belgium – Open. Immunized travelers (vaccines approved by the European Medicines Agency – EMA) originating from Green Zones (including U.S.), Orange Zones or Red Zones within EU will be allowed entry for nonessential travel. No quarantine required with negative test, proof of vaccination or recovery. Immunized travelers originating from Red Zone outside EU and Very High Risk Zone (Variants of Concern) will quarantine. See specific entry details.
      • Bosnia and Herzegovina – U.S. citizens are allowed entry with a negative COVID test, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery.
      • Croatia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for tourism with negative test, vaccine, or proof of recovery. Travelers from Brazil, Cyprus, Russia, South Africa, Tanzania and the UK must have pre-arrival negative Covid-19 test, regardless of vaccine status. Our Universal Aviation offices in Italy are helping coordinate arrangements to enter Croatia for customers.
      • Cyprus – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery are allowed to enter. See details here. In addition, the country is following this traffic light system. Non-vaccinated travelers must take a PCR test every 7 days while in country.
      • Czech Republic – Borders are open to nationals of all EU-associated countries, USA, and Serbia, provided travelers can provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test OR proof of full vaccination or recovery from COVID-19.
      • Denmark – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other Green/Yellow/Orange or OECD category countries can enter without testing or quarantine. There are additional paths in for non-vaccinated travelers. See detailed entry requirements. (Note: Captcha required to access site.)
      • Estonia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other safe countries can enter for any reason. Testing not required with vaccination.
      • Finland – As part of its phased reopening, Finland is easing restrictions since Jul 26 allowing some fully-vaccinated U.S. citizens to enter for essential business or if they have EU citizenship or a residence. Further easing allowing additional categories of vaccinated U.S. travelers is expected Aug 22.
      • France – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for tourism to fully vaccinated non-EU citizens from countries not on the red list. U.S. and Canada sit on the Green List (least restrictive). Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter France for any reason. Our blog article has the full details.
        • France is the first EU country to offer a digital health pass for vaccinated non-EU citizens/residents. Read details here.
        • France now requires that passengers on domestic legs provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative PCR test. In addition, crew will be required to provide this effective Aug. 30. This does not change active crew health entry requirements for international ops into France; just domestic legs in country.
      • Germany – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: U.S. travelers are allowed for tourism with either a negative test, proof of vaccination, or recent (6 month) proof of recovery. Quarantine can be bypassed with proof of vaccination or proof of recovery.
      • Greece – Open to U.S. travelers that are vaccinated OR those who have a negative PCR test result taken 72 hours before arrival. PLF form needs to be filled out at least 24 hours prior to arrival. Travel back and forth from the mainland to islands or vice versa requires PCR test or proof of vaccination. Effective Jul 16 – Aug 31, indoor dining will require proof of vaccine or negative COVID test. More local businesses are expected to require proof of vaccination for entry starting Sept 1. Our FBO ground support offices in Greece are ready to support you. Be sure to submit your parking requests ASAP for best options during Mediterranean summer peak season. Our Greek Islands destination guide has more details.
      • Greenland – Open with prior permission. Proof of vaccination and negative COVID test required for entry.
      • Hungary – U.S. persons can travel to Hungary for essential business. An invitation letter from the receiving party should be submitted in advance for approval. All U.S. passengers approved in for essential business don’t require COVID testing or quarantine.
      • Iceland – Open to travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery. Pre-arrival COVID test also required as of July 27. Full details online.
      • Ireland – Our Universal Aviation offices in Dublin and Shannon can assist.
        • Since July 19, fully-vaccinated travelers from the EU, UK, U.S., and other low risk countries are allowed to enter without testing or quarantine. See full details online.
        • Related to above, since July 19, Ireland is participating in the EU’s Digital Green Pass Program, allowing pass holders with proof of vaccination, recovery, or recent test result.
        • This pre-departure testing provider is available at EIDW for travelers headed to the U.S.
        • U.S. CBP Preclearance is open at Shannon/EINN for GA; however, hours have changed again. Read our blog for details and ops procedures.
        • Shannon has an onsite COVID testing program providing quick turnaround. Appointments are required and can be booked online at https://rocdochealthcheck.ie.
      • Italy – Open to U.S. and Canadian citizens for tourism. Must have one of the following: proof of vaccination, negative test, or proof of recovery. See our blog for details. Universal Aviation Italy is ready to support your missions.
      • Latvia – Open for leisure. Passengers who have been in the EU, EEA, Switzerland, UK, or U.S. for the past 14 days and have proof of vaccine approved by European Medicines Agency or WHO are exempt from pre-arrival Covid-19 testing and quarantine.
      • Macedonia – Open. Effective Sep 1, all persons arriving in North Macedonia will need to present either a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before entry, proof of full vaccination, or proof of having recovered from COVID-19 within the previous 45 days.
      • Malta – Immunized travelers from the USA, which is on the Red list, will be allowed entry.
      • Moldova – Foreign citizens from most Red List countries (including the U.S.) are prohibited, with some exceptions. Permitted travelers from red list of countries must hold completed vaccine certificate or quarantine.
      • Montenegro – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open to U.S. citizens. Aircraft disinfection required.
      • Netherlands – The U.S. is on the Safe Countries/Regions List. Travelers from the U.S., regardless of their nationalities, are allowed to travel from the U.S. to the Netherlands without need for pre-arrival test or quarantine. Non-EU/Schengen passengers transiting from high-risk, hotspot countries are very restricted.
      • Norway – Open to Green List EU countries without quarantine. We’re expecting to soon hear about plans for easing to the U.S. soon.
      • Poland – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE for countries on the allowed list only. Allowed travelers, including U.S. citizens, with an EU-approved vaccine OR proof of recovery are exempt from quarantine. U.S. traveler entering with only a proof of negative test result will need to quarantine. The updated flight ban list can be found online.
      • Portugal – Officially open to tourism, including U.S./Canadian travelers. A negative COVID test on arrival is required. Travelers from the UK require proof of vaccination or quarantine for 14 days. Note: Effective July 1, Portugal has implemented a new carbon tax for charter ops.
      • Russia – Allowing international travelers from a number of countries, including the U.S. and Mexico. UK travelers must self-quarantine. Pre-arrival PCR test required. Canadians are still prohibited.
      • Serbia – U.S. citizens can enter for business or tourism. No quarantine required. Fully vaccinated travelers from some EU countries are exempt from providing negative COVID-19 test results for entry.
      • Slovak Republic – PCR test and quarantine required for entry. Immunized business travelers with acceptable reason for business can be exempted from quarantine. Travelers from the EU and Schengen region are not required to test or quarantine with proof of vaccine. Travelers from Green countries can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test at any time after arrival. Travelers from Red countries (including USA) can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test on the fifth day of quarantine.
      • Slovenia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE, but only for travelers from countries not on the red list. The U.S. has been moved to GREEN, allowing entry with proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test.
      • Spain – Open. Travelers from the United States, Canada and Mexico can enter Spain for any reason. Our blog article has all the details.
      • Sweden – Sweden – U.S. residents can enter the country directly. COVID test still required. More details here.
      • Switzerland – Open to U.S. and Canadian travelers. Proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative test result required. Quarantine only required for visitors if they have been to any of these countries (note that U.S is NOT on this list) at any time within the last 14 days before entering Switzerland.
      • Turkey – Travelers from high-risk countries (none of which are EU, UK, US, or Canada) must quarantine. Immunized U.S. travelers do not require a pre-arrival COVID test. Other than the high-risk countries above, Turkey remains open on the Mediterranean to Private/Business flights (including leisure) regardless the country of registration and/or nationality of passenger. Our Universal Aviation office in Turkey can provide assistance.
      • Ukraine – Open. Travelers who have completed the vaccine process are exempt from presenting a negative Covid-19 test on arrival. All unvaccinated travelers must undergo 10 days of self-isolation, which can be ended early by passing a second COVID-19 test. Medical insurance and tracer app required. Aircraft disinfection required. Read more online.
      • UK – Accessible. See section below for more details.
    • UK –
      • UK entry requirements – Travelers must follow the UK’s Red, Amber, and Green list rules for entering the UK. NOTE: Effective Aug 8, the country classification list will change, allowing more access for travelers from India, Qatar, UAE and other countries. Mexico will be more restricted.
        • Fully vaccinated travelers from Green List countries don’t require quarantine.
        • Fully vaccinated travelers from the EU and U.S. can enter the UK from an Amber List country using Green list country rules, which means:
          • Test prior to arrival (lateral flow or PCR)
          • Complete pax locator form and book/take a day 2 COVID test
          • No quarantine
        • Unvaccinated travelers from Amber List countries, except UK residents, must quarantine and take COVID-19 tests on the second and eighth days of their quarantine period.
        • International visitors who have visited or transited through any Red list country in the previous 10 days will be refused entry into England. Only British and Irish citizens, or those with residence rights in the UK, will be allowed to enter, and they must stay in a government approved quarantine facility for 10 days, which has to be booked prior to travel.
      • The UK may soon begin to require COVID passes for entry to night clubs and indoor venues. Nothing official yet.
      • Luton’s Night Slot Ban (June 1 – Sept. 30) – London’s Luton Airport announced a new Night Slot Ban is taking effect June 1 through Sept. 30, between the hours of 2200Z to 0600Z. London-Stansted Airport will be the preferred alternative. Read full details on our blog.
      • RAF Northolt Airport in London has extended its M-F operating hours by three hours to 0800-2000L. This is a big deal because as the closest GA-accessible to central London, as well as the closest airport to Heathrow, these longer hours make it a much better option for international operators. Universal Aviation Northolt worked hard to make this happen.
      • Don’t miss your UK-APD payments – Passenger flights out of the UK are subject to Air Passenger Duty (UK-APD) payments, and many operators forget to pay these within the 7-day deadline. Since we have a local office, we can monitor and manage any payments owed on your behalf. Just send a request to our Global Regulatory Team to get started. It’s a fast and easy setup process.
      • A new emissions reporting scheme now applies as a result of Brexit – UK-ETS. If you need help with your UK-ETS monitoring and reporting, we can make this easy for you. Contact our Global Regulatory team directly.

Updated Thursday, August 19, 2021, 9:30 AM EST

United States

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • U.S. – No updates. Presidential proclamations remain in place.
    • On Jan. 12, 2021, the U.S. CDC issued an order requiring proof of a negative viral COVID-19 test (NAAT/PCR or antigen), or medical proof of recovery, for anyone arriving from a foreign country to the U.S. The order went into effect Jan. 26, 2021 for ALL flights, including private flight and GA aircraft. Key points:
      • Only ACTIVE crew members are EXEMPT. You can find the full definition of ACTIVE CREW and some analysis on the various exemption scenarios that we’ve been asked about on our website.
      • Passengers must show aircraft operator proof of negative result, taken with 3 days of boarding, or of recovery prior to boarding.
      • U.S. CDC Approves Home Test for Int’l Arrivals – On May 7, the CDC updated its Order to allow self-administered COVID tests (aka home tests) to qualify for int’l arrivals to the U.S. Note that the CDC has guidance on what home tests will be allowed.
      • Operators of private flights and general aviation must maintain passenger Attestations (i.e., declaration forms) for 2 years. Note: While the operator needs to see the test result, only the Attestations (which can be captured digitally) must be kept on file. We are providing free pre-populated Attestation forms on Universal-managed trips in-bound to the U.S. Ask us for details.
      • The CDC’s website has more information on the order, including the official announcement and FAQs.
      • Note FAA NOTAM reinforcing the CDC order.
    • U.S. Presidential Proclamations remain in place: On April 30, the U.S. travel restrictions were extended to include India. All non-U.S. travelers who have recently been in Brazil, India, South Africa, and most EU countries, including the UK and Ireland, are restricted.
      • CBP has published a bulletin announcing a variety of U.S. visa holders have been granted blanket national interest exceptions to the current entry restrictions on travelers from suspended regions. Note: B1 and B2 visas are not exempt; HOWEVER, read next bullet.
      • The U.S. State Department quietly released a buried update allowing National Interest Waivers (NIWs) to be issued to foreign crew seeking entry to the U.S. for the purposes of training or aircraft pickup, delivery, or maintenance – despite their travel history. Crew must have a B-1/B-2, B-1, or M-1 visa, or Visa Waiver Program authorization to qualify. This is a big one many in the business aviation community have been asking for. We have extensive expertise with NIWs and can assist.
      • All stops in suspended regions, overnight or just tech stops, are treated the same.
      • Entry by any non-U.S. foreign national (that includes Canadian and Mexican citizens) who has been in a suspended region over the past 14 days is HIGHLY RESTRICTED and will be denied, with few exceptions.
    • Expired U.S. Passports for Return Travel – CBP issued this bulletin announcing that U.S. citizens holding a U.S. passport that expired on or after January 1, 2020 may still be able to use their expired U.S. passport for direct return travel to the United States until December 31, 2021.
    • New U.S CBP Documentation Provided for Arrivals – Effective April 26, Part 91 arrivals into the U.S will begin receiving this new document [PDF] with their landing rights packages at select ports. It basically covers roles and responsibilities for both operator and CBP for int’l arrivals. NO ACTION is needed when you get this. It’s just good-to-know info to have in your back pocket.
    • U.S. APIS Update: All GA travelers are now required to provide additional details, including primary phone number and email address, for contact tracing purposes when coming from Guinea or the DROC in response to Ebola. Scheduled airlines have already been doing this. Airport funneling from these destinations is also in effect. While these destinations aren’t the most popular for GA travel, it’s not unlikely that we could see the APIS data collection portion of this requirement expanded to cover arrivals from more countries (e.g., for contact tracing other diseases). Note that Private and Charter flights will have different processes for complying with this based on how APIS information is currently transmitted for each of these two flight types. Read more about this on our blog.
    • Applications for signatory carrier status under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are still being processed. All U.S.-based operators (including some international companies with U.S. subsidiaries) and non-U.S. commercial operators are eligible to apply. If you are not a signatory carrier and qualify, we recommend you apply to increase your operating flexibility. We can help.
    • The National Interest Waiver (NIW) is another avenue foreign nationals can seek for entry into the U.S. and can be an effective means of entry. Allowed purposes of visit include Business, Education, Training, and Medical. Application for entry is available for the following U.S. AOEs: KLAX, KEWR, KDFW, KJFK, and KIAH, as well as through the U.S. Embassy in France and the UK. Our Global Regulatory Services team has worked out the repeatable process to apply at each of these and can provide support.
    • On June 29, the U.S. extended the validity for National Interest Exemptions (NIEs) for travelers from China, Iran, Brazil, S. Africa, the Schengen Area, UK, Ireland, and India by 12 months. Details here.
    • The U.S. STEP Program is an important risk mitigation program that U.S. nationals should be using on every international trip, especially now with COVID. When the first wave hit and we saw the massive wave of lockdowns, this program helped get people on the U.S. Embassy’s evacuation list to return home. It has a whole host of other benefits like if you lose your passport or have medical issues, if there is a terrorist incident or civil unrest, etc. Our Global Regulatory Services team offers an optional, turnkey STEP Registration Service for your trips with us.
    • Any operator entering the U.S. from the south should be taking advantage of the CBP’s Border Overflight Exemption (BOE) program to avoid having to make an extra stop at the first designated AOE when returning home. A BOE is good for 2 years, and it greatly increases your operational flexibility. We can take care of this for you.
    • Non-U.S. charter (non-scheduled commercial) operators flying to/from the U.S. with less than 12 flights per year MUST have a DOT Part 375 Ops Permit and/or Special Authorization. We can assist.
    • Advise passengers and crew to continue maintaining a 14-day travel history log of the countries, states, and cities they visit. This is critical for both travel into the U.S., within it, and abroad.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.
    • Hawaii – Travelers who have been vaccinated in the United States, may enter Hawaii without a negative COVID-19 test. International travelers still require a COVID test at one of Hawaii’s approved testing providers. Additional easing on local restrictions expected as vaccination numbers rise.
    • Puerto Rico – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. See details at www.travelsafe.pr.gov or www.viajaseguro.pr.gov. Proof of negative COVID test required to avoid quarantine. Crew are exempt.
    • USVI – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. Visit the USVI Travel Screening Portal and fill out the info requested in advance. Additional information and testing requirements available on https://usviupdate.com/. Our preferred ground handler at TIST, Standard Aviation, has parking availability and can provide air transfers to neighboring Caribbean islands.
    • Alaska – Alaska’s travel mandates and orders are now just travel advisories. Full entry details online.

Canada 

  • Canada – No updates. Still awaiting official confirmation on additional funnel airports.
    • Canada announced plans to ease its borders for fully-vaccinated U.S. citizens and residents, effective August 9 – and other fully-vaccinated foreign nationals, effective September 7. Quarantine will no longer be required. It’s also our understanding in talking with CBAA that the intent is for mandatory pre-arrival testing to go away as well, but that’s not clearly spelled out in the regulation. We’ll be looking for more clarity on that. On-arrival testing will only be required on a randomized basis. Read full-details online. Until then, all current procedures restrictions remain in place.
    • All travelers are required to provide their COVID-related information, in advance, via ArriveCAN app or website. Travelers will continue using ArriveCAN after the August 9 border easing.
    • Canada has this online tool to help you assess if you can enter the country.
    • Canada has very strict quarantine requirements for non-citizens and residents entering the country. Active crew are exempt but need to follow these contact collection guidelines.
    • Fully-vaccinated citizens and residents returning to Canada are exempt from quarantine effective July 5. Vaccinated U.S. citizens are not exempt from quarantine.
    • Airport Funneling in Effect – All international passenger flights, including those from the U.S., are required to enter Canada through one of the following four funneling airports: CYYZ/Toronto, CYVR/Vancouver, CYUL/Montreal, and CYYC/Calgary. Medevac, ferry and crew repatriation flights, cargo-only flights, and tech stops where no passengers disembark are exempt. In addition, we’ve learned that Canada will soon add 5 more funneling airports to the 4 already in place. Those 5 new ones will be: Edmonton, Winnipeg, Ottawa, Quebec, and Halifax. It’s not official yet, but it’s coming.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.

Mexico

  • Mexico – No major updates.
    • Mexico is open and accessible. Popular tourist destinations like Los Cabos, Cozumel, PV, and Cancun are active with flights.
    • Our ground handing teams in Mexico (Mexico City/Toluca, Los Cabos, Cancun, Cozumel, PV, Monterrey, etc.) are available to support your missions.
    • AFAC remains closed but is processing AOC renewals and modifications, one time permits, blanket permit modifications, and blanket permit verifications remotely/online. Note that AFAC is working under reduced staffing hours, so application processing will take longer than normal. For assistance with your Mexico permits, we can help.
    • There is a no-touch Covid-19 health assessment form, which is required on arrival/departure. After completing the form, print or screen cap the QR code that is generated for easy access. You’ll need to present this to the health inspectors upon arrival into Mexico. Here is the link: https://afac.hostingerapp.com – Note that you need to actually copy/paste it into your browser; just clicking it will throw an error. A 14-day quarantine at residence may be necessary; however, popular tourist zones in the typical vacation cities (e.g., Cancun, Los Cabos, PV, Cozumel) are excluded.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.
    • The Mexican government has established an epidemiological traffic light monitoring system based on the number of cases and risk of contagion to manage the relaxing of restrictions. The status of it varies from state to state.

Caribbean

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • Anguilla – Open. Only open to fully vaccinated travelers. Pre- and on-arrival testing required. Quarantine 24 hours until result is known. If negative, you are free to move about island.
  • Antigua and Barbuda – Fully vaccinated tourist \ travelers, do not have to quarantine. However, both they AND crew are required to have a proof of a negative COVID test taken prior to arrival. See official website for details.
  • Aruba – Aruba is accepting flights from all U.S. states. The pre-arrival COVID test requirement has been reinstated for vaccinted travelers. Aruba’s Digital Embarkation-Disembarkation Card (ED card) and health insurance are required.
  • Bahamas – Open. FULLY-VACCINATED TRAVELERS are no longer exempt from the requirement to provide a negative PCR test prior to arrival; testing required prior to arrival for ALL travelers. No quarantine required. This electronic health visa must be completed. Health insurance is required. More info at the Office of the Prime Minister and Reopen Bahamas. Travelers who have completed their vaccine plus two weeks immunity will not be required to take COVID-19 test prior to arrival.
  • Barbados – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers will only need to quarantine 1 day. Pre- and on-arrival testing required, unless coming from a designated “travel bubble” Caribbean island. Quarantine 24 hours until test result is known, after which you are free to move about the island. See details online.
  • Bermuda – Open. Vaccinated travelers will be tested on arrival and must quarantine until results are known (about 24 hours). Then they will be released from quarantine and free to move around. Unvaccinated travelers must quarantine a full 14 days on a gov’t approved location.
  • Bonaire – Open to U.S travelers. Check with us for latest. Must complete a Health Declaration Form at www.bonairepublichealth.org. Quarantine is required unless traveling from “low-risk countries.”.
  • British Virgin Islands (BVI) – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for tourism. Testing pre-arrival, on-arrival, and on day 4 required. Details online. Form must be submitted in advance of arrival on the BVI Gateway Traveller’s Authorization Portal. Contact tracer app required. Immunized travelers will be tested on arrival. Once arrival test result is known, immunized traveler will be exempt from 7-day quarantine. Health insurance is required.
  • Cayman Islands – Cayman authorities announced that on Sept 9, they will allow limited tourism of vaccinated travelers to resume. Pre-arrival PCR tests will be required. Until then, travelers from Canada, EU and the U.S. with securely verifiable vaccination records are allowed entry with a 5 day quarantine. Effective Oct 14, verified vaccinated travelers will no longer need to quarantine. See website for more details.
  • Cuba – Certain parts of country are open for tourism. U.S. sanctions still apply. COVID-19 test upon arrival. Quarantine is required.
  • Curacao – Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and these other countries are permitted to enter Curacao. Pre-arrival COVID test required to enter.
  • Dominica – Open; however, entry requirements, disembarkation, and quarantine protocols vary depending on the country-of-origin’s risk level (CARICOM Travel Bubble, Low Risk, Medium Risk, High Risk) and whether or not travelers are vaccinated. U.S. sits on high risk, which requires quarantining at an approved “Safe in nature” luxury resort. COVID test on arrival required for all travelers, regardless of vaccination status. Full details online.
  • Dominican Republic – Open to international passengers. Passengers who present a vaccination card and/or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in the Dominican Republic will be exempted from the random test. Universal Aviation DR is open and supporting missions.
  • Grenada – Open. Apply for approval online. Expect to quarantine. Tracer app required. More information online. Persons providing proof of full vaccination will only be required to quarantine for up to 48 hours, pending a negative result from a PCR test administered upon entry.
  • Guadeloupe – French territory. Open for leisure to vaccinated U.S. travelers and pre-arrival COVID test required.
  • Haiti – Open. No quarantine required for vaccinated travelers.
  • Jamaica – Open. All foreign crew and passengers must obtain travel authorization online prior to arrival. COVID-19 PCR or antigen test on arrival for travelers from high risk countries, like the U.S., at cost of $150 USD. Travelers from India, Trinidad, and six South American countries are prohibited. Quarantine required for length of stay or 14 days, in either a residence or tourist zone (“Resilient Corridor”). Fully vaccinated travelers have the option to shorten their mandatory 8-day quarantine by taking an additional (RT-PCR) for COVID-19 on arrival and with a negative result will be released from quarantine. See full details online.
  • Martinique – French territory – Open to U.S. travelers. Preapproval required.
  • St. Barts – French territory – Open for vaccinated travelers. Negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. Must complete online Health entry form prior to entry.
  • St. Lucia – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers exempt from quarantine. More info online.
  • St. Kitts & Nevis – Open. All travelers who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 must remain in quarantine for at least four days and take a COVID-19 PCR test on the fourth day to exit quarantine. Pre-arrival test and health app required. Details online.
  • Sint Maarten (Dutch side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. However, TNCM falls on the Netherlands side. The Netherlands side is enacting stricter restrictions for passengers from “high-risk” countries. Travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter. Check with us for details based on your specific flight scenario.
  • St. Martin (French side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. French side is closed for tourism.
  • St. Vincent & Grenadines – Fully-vaccinated travelers from high-risk countries (including Canada and U.S.) are required to do pre- and on-arrival testing. 48-hour quarantine required at a government-approved hotel/resort or facility. Testing upon arrival required for crew as well. Aircraft disinfection required. See full details and pre-authorization forms online.
  • Trinidad and Tobago – Fully vaccinated travelers can enter. Apply online in advance. Pre-arrival testing required. Unvaccinated travelers are banned.
  • Turks and Caicos – Open. All travelers to the Turks and Caicos are required to obtain a TCI Assure Travel Authorization at least 24 hours prior to boarding. Persons without authorization will not be permitted to board a flight to the Turks and Caicos. Travel insurance required.
  • USVI and Puerto Rico – See U.S. section above.

Latin America

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Venezuela are still operational and supporting missions.
  • Argentina – Very restricted. Can only enter with special authorization by the government. Universal Aviation Argentina is staying on top of the latest.
  • Belize – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE. Vaccinated travelers will need to still present a negative COVID-19 test result for entry.
  • Brazil – COVID test and health entry form for both crew and passengers. Crew are not exempt. Universal Aviation Brazil is following our C19 Health and Safety standards to support you safely.
  • Bolivia – U.S. passengers allowed entry for business. Travel health insurance required.
  • Chile – Until at least August 31, entry is restricted to medical, humanitarian, cargo and foreigners who have been specially authorized to enter by the Chilean diplomatic mission in their country. Travel medical insurance and quarantine required. Universal Aviation Chile is staying on top of the latest.
  • Colombia – International passengers are allowed to arrive in Colombia. CHECK MIG form required on the Colombian Immigration website. SKBO, SKCG, SKRG, and SKCL are open to accept flights from the U.S., Ecuador, Mexico, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Curacao, and Panama.
  • Costa Rica – Open. No quarantine is required. All passengers and crew must have travel insurance, unless fully vaccinated, and complete this health form in advance.
  • Ecuador – Is permitting persons to enter, but if you are coming from Brazil or India you will need to quarantine. Health form required. For mainland airports, no test required with proof of both vaccine doses. Galapagos airports SEGS and SEST still require a test.
  • El Salvador – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open. No quarantine. Travelers with proof of COVID-19 immunization are not required to present a negative COVID-19 test result for entry.
  • Falkland Islands – Business flights require special invitation letter. Quarantine and periodic COVID testing required, no exemptions. Leisure flights possible if transiting direct to a private vessel. Contact locator form required. Adequate aeromedical insurance is recommended.
  • Guatemala – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE for entry. Open. No quarantine with proof of a negative COVID-19 test result. Health screening on arrival.
  • Guyana – COVID test required for entry. No quarantine.
  • Honduras – Open for business flights. Quarantine not required with proof of a negative test. COVID test on departure required. Travelers with proof of vaccination may be exempt from the testing requirement.
  • Nicaragua – Open. No quarantine. Local contact, aircraft sanitization certificate, and traveler declaration form required.
  • Panama – Open. Quarantine required. Quarantine may be avoided depending on the 14-day travel history. Travelers with digital vaccine certificates proving they have been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior and have a negative COVID test in their IATA Travel Pass will be exempt from further testing requirements at the airport. Must complete an online registration form.
  • Paraguay – Paraguay is open for flights. Proof of Medical insurance required. Health card required.
  • Peru – Reopened for international flights with the exception of those who have been on Brazil, South Africa, or India in the past 14 days.
  • Suriname – Flights require government approval. Health insurance and quarantine required. Aircraft Disinfection Required.
  • Uruguay – Foreign non-residents can enter with special authorization issued by the government and a valid reason to travel. Vaccinated passengers will be exempt from quarantine. Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage is required.
  • Venezuela – Accessible with approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Quarantine at government facility required, up to 14 days. Aircraft Disinfection is required.

Europe

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Ireland, UK, France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey are all open and supporting missions.
    • Reopen Europe has improved its online tool for helping you assess entry requirements into the EU based on your trip scenario.
    • European countries that are accessible to passengers from the U.S. and other countries not on the EC’s list include:
      • Albania – Open. Health screening upon arrival.
      • Austria – Open. Immunized U.S. travelers can enter for leisure, without testing or self-isolation. Flights from the UK must have valid reason for entry (e.g., business purpose, medical). Flights from Brazil and other variant hotspot countries are prohibited UFN. See entry details online.
      • Belarus – Accessible. Travelers from this list of countries will likely have to self-quarantine.
      • Belgium – Open. Immunized travelers (vaccines approved by the European Medicines Agency – EMA) originating from Green Zones (including U.S.), Orange Zones or Red Zones within EU will be allowed entry for nonessential travel. No quarantine required with negative test, proof of vaccination or recovery. Immunized travelers originating from Red Zone outside EU and Very High Risk Zone (Variants of Concern) will quarantine. See specific entry details.
      • Bosnia and Herzegovina – U.S. citizens are allowed entry with a negative COVID test, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery.
      • Croatia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for tourism with negative test, vaccine, or proof of recovery. Travelers from Brazil, Cyprus, Russia, South Africa, Tanzania and the UK must have pre-arrival negative Covid-19 test, regardless of vaccine status. Our Universal Aviation offices in Italy are helping coordinate arrangements to enter Croatia for customers.
      • Cyprus – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery are allowed to enter. See details here. In addition, the country is following this traffic light system. Non-vaccinated travelers must take a PCR test every 7 days while in country.
      • Czech Republic – Borders are open to nationals of all EU-associated countries, USA, and Serbia, provided travelers can provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test OR proof of full vaccination or recovery from COVID-19.
      • Denmark – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other Green/Yellow/Orange or OECD category countries can enter without testing or quarantine. There are additional paths in for non-vaccinated travelers. See detailed entry requirements. (Note: Captcha required to access site.)
      • Estonia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other safe countries can enter for any reason. Testing not required with vaccination.
      • Finland – As part of its phased reopening, Finland is easing restrictions since Jul 26 allowing some fully-vaccinated U.S. citizens to enter for essential business or if they have EU citizenship or a residence. Further easing allowing additional categories of vaccinated U.S. travelers is expected Aug 22.
      • France – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for tourism to fully vaccinated non-EU citizens from countries not on the red list. U.S. and Canada sit on the Green List (least restrictive). Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter France for any reason. Our blog article has the full details.
        • France is the first EU country to offer a digital health pass for vaccinated non-EU citizens/residents. Read details here.
        • France now requires that passengers on domestic legs provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative PCR test. In addition, crew will be required to provide this effective Aug. 30. This does not change active crew health entry requirements for international ops into France; just domestic legs in country.
      • Germany – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: U.S. travelers are allowed for tourism with either a negative test, proof of vaccination, or recent (6 month) proof of recovery. Quarantine can be bypassed with proof of vaccination or proof of recovery.
      • Greece – Open to U.S. travelers that are vaccinated OR those who have a negative PCR test result taken 72 hours before arrival. PLF form needs to be filled out at least 24 hours prior to arrival. Travel back and forth from the mainland to islands or vice versa requires PCR test or proof of vaccination. Effective Jul 16 – Aug 31, indoor dining will require proof of vaccine or negative COVID test. More local businesses are expected to require proof of vaccination for entry starting Sept 1. Our FBO ground support offices in Greece are ready to support you. Be sure to submit your parking requests ASAP for best options during Mediterranean summer peak season. Our Greek Islands destination guide has more details.
      • Greenland – Open with prior permission. Proof of vaccination and negative COVID test required for entry.
      • Hungary – U.S. persons can travel to Hungary for essential business. An invitation letter from the receiving party should be submitted in advance for approval. All U.S. passengers approved in for essential business don’t require COVID testing or quarantine.
      • Iceland – Open to travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery. Pre-arrival COVID test also required as of July 27. Full details online.
      • Ireland – Our Universal Aviation offices in Dublin and Shannon can assist.
        • Since July 19, fully-vaccinated travelers from the EU, UK, U.S., and other low risk countries are allowed to enter without testing or quarantine. See full details online.
        • Related to above, since July 19, Ireland is participating in the EU’s Digital Green Pass Program, allowing pass holders with proof of vaccination, recovery, or recent test result.
        • This pre-departure testing provider is available at EIDW for travelers headed to the U.S.
        • U.S. CBP Preclearance is open at Shannon/EINN for GA; however, hours have changed again. Read our blog for details and ops procedures.
        • Shannon has an onsite COVID testing program providing quick turnaround. Appointments are required and can be booked online at https://rocdochealthcheck.ie.
      • Italy – Open to U.S. and Canadian citizens for tourism. Must have one of the following: proof of vaccination, negative test, or proof of recovery. See our blog for details. Universal Aviation Italy is ready to support your missions.
      • Latvia – Open for leisure. Passengers who have been in the EU, EEA, Switzerland, UK, or U.S. for the past 14 days and have proof of vaccine approved by European Medicines Agency or WHO are exempt from pre-arrival Covid-19 testing and quarantine.
      • Macedonia – Open. Effective Sep 1, all persons arriving in North Macedonia will need to present either a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before entry, proof of full vaccination, or proof of having recovered from COVID-19 within the previous 45 days.
      • Malta – Immunized travelers from the USA, which is on the Red list, will be allowed entry.
      • Moldova – Foreign citizens from most Red List countries (including the U.S.) are prohibited, with some exceptions. Permitted travelers from red list of countries must hold completed vaccine certificate or quarantine.
      • Montenegro – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open to U.S. citizens. Aircraft disinfection required.
      • Netherlands – The U.S. is on the Safe Countries/Regions List. Travelers from the U.S., regardless of their nationalities, are allowed to travel from the U.S. to the Netherlands without need for pre-arrival test or quarantine. Non-EU/Schengen passengers transiting from high-risk, hotspot countries are very restricted.
      • Norway – Open to Green List EU countries without quarantine. We’re expecting to soon hear about plans for easing to the U.S. soon.
      • Poland – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE for countries on the allowed list only. Allowed travelers, including U.S. citizens, with an EU-approved vaccine OR proof of recovery are exempt from quarantine. U.S. traveler entering with only a proof of negative test result will need to quarantine. The updated flight ban list can be found online.
      • Portugal – Officially open to tourism, including U.S./Canadian travelers. A negative COVID test on arrival is required. Travelers from the UK require proof of vaccination or quarantine for 14 days. Note: Effective July 1, Portugal has implemented a new carbon tax for charter ops.
      • Russia – Allowing international travelers from a number of countries, including the U.S. and Mexico. UK travelers must self-quarantine. Pre-arrival PCR test required. Canadians are still prohibited.
      • Serbia – U.S. citizens can enter for business or tourism. No quarantine required. Fully vaccinated travelers from some EU countries are exempt from providing negative COVID-19 test results for entry.
      • Slovak Republic – PCR test and quarantine required for entry. Immunized business travelers with acceptable reason for business can be exempted from quarantine. Travelers from the EU and Schengen region are not required to test or quarantine with proof of vaccine. Travelers from Green countries can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test at any time after arrival. Travelers from Red countries (including USA) can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test on the fifth day of quarantine.
      • Slovenia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE, but only for travelers from countries not on the red list. The U.S. has been moved to GREEN, allowing entry with proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test.
      • Spain – Open. Travelers from the United States, Canada and Mexico can enter Spain for any reason. Our blog article has all the details.
      • Sweden – Sweden – U.S. residents can enter the country directly. COVID test still required. More details here.
      • Switzerland – Open to U.S. and Canadian travelers. Proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative test result required. Quarantine only required for visitors if they have been to any of these countries (note that U.S is NOT on this list) at any time within the last 14 days before entering Switzerland.
      • Turkey – Travelers from high-risk countries (none of which are EU, UK, US, or Canada) must quarantine. Immunized U.S. travelers do not require a pre-arrival COVID test. Other than the high-risk countries above, Turkey remains open on the Mediterranean to Private/Business flights (including leisure) regardless the country of registration and/or nationality of passenger. Our Universal Aviation office in Turkey can provide assistance.
      • Ukraine – Open. Travelers who have completed the vaccine process are exempt from presenting a negative Covid-19 test on arrival. All unvaccinated travelers must undergo 10 days of self-isolation, which can be ended early by passing a second COVID-19 test. Medical insurance and tracer app required. Aircraft disinfection required. Read more online.
      • UK – Accessible. See section below for more details.
    • UK –
      • UK entry requirements – Travelers must follow the UK’s Red, Amber, and Green list rules for entering the UK. NOTE: Effective Aug 8, the country classification list will change, allowing more access for travelers from India, Qatar, UAE and other countries. Mexico will be more restricted.
        • Fully vaccinated travelers from Green List countries don’t require quarantine.
        • Fully vaccinated travelers from the EU and U.S. can enter the UK from an Amber List country using Green list country rules, which means:
          • Test prior to arrival (lateral flow or PCR)
          • Complete pax locator form and book/take a day 2 COVID test
          • No quarantine
        • Unvaccinated travelers from Amber List countries, except UK residents, must quarantine and take COVID-19 tests on the second and eighth days of their quarantine period.
        • International visitors who have visited or transited through any Red list country in the previous 10 days will be refused entry into England. Only British and Irish citizens, or those with residence rights in the UK, will be allowed to enter, and they must stay in a government approved quarantine facility for 10 days, which has to be booked prior to travel.
      • The UK may soon begin to require COVID passes for entry to night clubs and indoor venues. Nothing official yet.
      • Luton’s Night Slot Ban (June 1 – Sept. 30) – London’s Luton Airport announced a new Night Slot Ban is taking effect June 1 through Sept. 30, between the hours of 2200Z to 0600Z. London-Stansted Airport will be the preferred alternative. Read full details on our blog.
      • RAF Northolt Airport in London has extended its M-F operating hours by three hours to 0800-2000L. This is a big deal because as the closest GA-accessible to central London, as well as the closest airport to Heathrow, these longer hours make it a much better option for international operators. Universal Aviation Northolt worked hard to make this happen.
      • Don’t miss your UK-APD payments – Passenger flights out of the UK are subject to Air Passenger Duty (UK-APD) payments, and many operators forget to pay these within the 7-day deadline. Since we have a local office, we can monitor and manage any payments owed on your behalf. Just send a request to our Global Regulatory Team to get started. It’s a fast and easy setup process.
      • A new emissions reporting scheme now applies as a result of Brexit – UK-ETS. If you need help with your UK-ETS monitoring and reporting, we can make this easy for you. Contact our Global Regulatory team directly.

Updated Thursday, August 12, 2021, 8:00 AM EST

United States

Summary info only. Detailed intelligence available – Pre-arrival testing requirements, health forms, quarantine details, local curfews, and scenario-specific info have been omitted from this overview. Ask your Universal Trip Support team for a Feasibility Guide to get detailed intelligence for your destination of interest.

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • U.S. – No updates. Presidential proclamations remain in place.
    • On Jan. 12, 2021, the U.S. CDC issued an order requiring proof of a negative viral COVID-19 test (NAAT/PCR or antigen), or medical proof of recovery, for anyone arriving from a foreign country to the U.S. The order went into effect Jan. 26, 2021 for ALL flights, including private flight and GA aircraft. Key points:
      • Only ACTIVE crew members are EXEMPT. You can find the full definition of ACTIVE CREW and some analysis on the various exemption scenarios that we’ve been asked about on our website.
      • Passengers must show aircraft operator proof of negative result, taken with 3 days of boarding, or of recovery prior to boarding.
      • U.S. CDC Approves Home Test for Int’l Arrivals – On May 7, the CDC updated its Order to allow self-administered COVID tests (aka home tests) to qualify for int’l arrivals to the U.S. Note that the CDC has guidance on what home tests will be allowed.
      • Operators of private flights and general aviation must maintain passenger Attestations (i.e., declaration forms) for 2 years. Note: While the operator needs to see the test result, only the Attestations (which can be captured digitally) must be kept on file. We are providing free pre-populated Attestation forms on Universal-managed trips in-bound to the U.S. Ask us for details.
      • The CDC’s website has more information on the order, including the official announcement and FAQs.
      • Note FAA NOTAM reinforcing the CDC order.
    • U.S. Presidential Proclamations remain in place: On April 30, the U.S. travel restrictions were extended to include India. All non-U.S. travelers who have recently been in Brazil, India, South Africa, and most EU countries, including the UK and Ireland, are restricted.
      • CBP has published a bulletin announcing a variety of U.S. visa holders have been granted blanket national interest exceptions to the current entry restrictions on travelers from suspended regions. Note: B1 and B2 visas are not exempt; HOWEVER, read next bullet.
      • The U.S. State Department quietly released a buried update allowing National Interest Waivers (NIWs) to be issued to foreign crew seeking entry to the U.S. for the purposes of training or aircraft pickup, delivery, or maintenance – despite their travel history. Crew must have a B-1/B-2, B-1, or M-1 visa, or Visa Waiver Program authorization to qualify. This is a big one many in the business aviation community have been asking for. We have extensive expertise with NIWs and can assist.
      • All stops in suspended regions, overnight or just tech stops, are treated the same.
      • Entry by any non-U.S. foreign national (that includes Canadian and Mexican citizens) who has been in a suspended region over the past 14 days is HIGHLY RESTRICTED and will be denied, with few exceptions.
    • Expired U.S. Passports for Return Travel – CBP issued this bulletin announcing that U.S. citizens holding a U.S. passport that expired on or after January 1, 2020 may still be able to use their expired U.S. passport for direct return travel to the United States until December 31, 2021.
    • New U.S CBP Documentation Provided for Arrivals – Effective April 26, Part 91 arrivals into the U.S will begin receiving this new document [PDF] with their landing rights packages at select ports. It basically covers roles and responsibilities for both operator and CBP for int’l arrivals. NO ACTION is needed when you get this. It’s just good-to-know info to have in your back pocket.
    • U.S. APIS Update: All GA travelers are now required to provide additional details, including primary phone number and email address, for contact tracing purposes when coming from Guinea or the DROC in response to Ebola. Scheduled airlines have already been doing this. Airport funneling from these destinations is also in effect. While these destinations aren’t the most popular for GA travel, it’s not unlikely that we could see the APIS data collection portion of this requirement expanded to cover arrivals from more countries (e.g., for contact tracing other diseases). Note that Private and Charter flights will have different processes for complying with this based on how APIS information is currently transmitted for each of these two flight types. Read more about this on our blog.
    • Applications for signatory carrier status under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are still being processed. All U.S.-based operators (including some international companies with U.S. subsidiaries) and non-U.S. commercial operators are eligible to apply. If you are not a signatory carrier and qualify, we recommend you apply to increase your operating flexibility. We can help.
    • The National Interest Waiver (NIW) is another avenue foreign nationals can seek for entry into the U.S. and can be an effective means of entry. Allowed purposes of visit include Business, Education, Training, and Medical. Application for entry is available for the following U.S. AOEs: KLAX, KEWR, KDFW, KJFK, and KIAH, as well as through the U.S. Embassy in France and the UK. Our Global Regulatory Services team has worked out the repeatable process to apply at each of these and can provide support.
    • On June 29, the U.S. extended the validity for National Interest Exemptions (NIEs) for travelers from China, Iran, Brazil, S. Africa, the Schengen Area, UK, Ireland, and India by 12 months. Details here.
    • The U.S. STEP Program is an important risk mitigation program that U.S. nationals should be using on every international trip, especially now with COVID. When the first wave hit and we saw the massive wave of lockdowns, this program helped get people on the U.S. Embassy’s evacuation list to return home. It has a whole host of other benefits like if you lose your passport or have medical issues, if there is a terrorist incident or civil unrest, etc. Our Global Regulatory Services team offers an optional, turnkey STEP Registration Service for your trips with us.
    • Any operator entering the U.S. from the south should be taking advantage of the CBP’s Border Overflight Exemption (BOE) program to avoid having to make an extra stop at the first designated AOE when returning home. A BOE is good for 2 years, and it greatly increases your operational flexibility. We can take care of this for you.
    • Non-U.S. charter (non-scheduled commercial) operators flying to/from the U.S. with less than 12 flights per year MUST have a DOT Part 375 Ops Permit and/or Special Authorization. We can assist.
    • Advise passengers and crew to continue maintaining a 14-day travel history log of the countries, states, and cities they visit. This is critical for both travel into the U.S., within it, and abroad.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.
    • Hawaii – Travelers who have been vaccinated in the United States, may enter Hawaii without a negative COVID-19 test. International travelers still require a COVID test at one of Hawaii’s approved testing providers. Additional easing on local restrictions expected as vaccination numbers rise.
    • Puerto Rico – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. See details at www.travelsafe.pr.gov or www.viajaseguro.pr.gov. Proof of negative COVID test required to avoid quarantine. Crew are exempt.
    • USVI – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. Visit the USVI Travel Screening Portal and fill out the info requested in advance. Additional information and testing requirements available on https://usviupdate.com/. Our preferred ground handler at TIST, Standard Aviation, has parking availability and can provide air transfers to neighboring Caribbean islands.
    • Alaska – Alaska’s travel mandates and orders are now just travel advisories. Full entry details online.

Canada 

  • Canada – No updates. Still awaiting official confirmation on additional funnel airports.
    • Canada announced plans to ease its borders for fully-vaccinated U.S. citizens and residents, effective August 9 – and other fully-vaccinated foreign nationals, effective September 7. Quarantine will no longer be required. It’s also our understanding in talking with CBAA that the intent is for mandatory pre-arrival testing to go away as well, but that’s not clearly spelled out in the regulation. We’ll be looking for more clarity on that. On-arrival testing will only be required on a randomized basis. Read full-details online. Until then, all current procedures restrictions remain in place.
    • All travelers are required to provide their COVID-related information, in advance, via ArriveCAN app or website. Travelers will continue using ArriveCAN after the August 9 border easing.
    • Canada has this online tool to help you assess if you can enter the country.
    • Canada has very strict quarantine requirements for non-citizens and residents entering the country. Active crew are exempt but need to follow these contact collection guidelines.
    • Fully-vaccinated citizens and residents returning to Canada are exempt from quarantine effective July 5. Vaccinated U.S. citizens are not exempt from quarantine.
    • Airport Funneling in Effect – All international passenger flights, including those from the U.S., are required to enter Canada through one of the following four funneling airports: CYYZ/Toronto, CYVR/Vancouver, CYUL/Montreal, and CYYC/Calgary. Medevac, ferry and crew repatriation flights, cargo-only flights, and tech stops where no passengers disembark are exempt. In addition, we’ve learned that Canada will soon add 5 more funneling airports to the 4 already in place. Those 5 new ones will be: Edmonton, Winnipeg, Ottawa, Quebec, and Halifax. It’s not official yet, but it’s coming.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.

Mexico

  • Mexico – No major updates.
    • Mexico is open and accessible. Popular tourist destinations like Los Cabos, Cozumel, PV, and Cancun are active with flights.
    • Our ground handing teams in Mexico (Mexico City/Toluca, Los Cabos, Cancun, Cozumel, PV, Monterrey, etc.) are available to support your missions.
    • AFAC remains closed but is processing AOC renewals and modifications, one time permits, blanket permit modifications, and blanket permit verifications remotely/online. Note that AFAC is working under reduced staffing hours, so application processing will take longer than normal. For assistance with your Mexico permits, we can help.
    • There is a no-touch Covid-19 health assessment form, which is required on arrival/departure. After completing the form, print or screen cap the QR code that is generated for easy access. You’ll need to present this to the health inspectors upon arrival into Mexico. Here is the link: https://afac.hostingerapp.com – Note that you need to actually copy/paste it into your browser; just clicking it will throw an error. A 14-day quarantine at residence may be necessary; however, popular tourist zones in the typical vacation cities (e.g., Cancun, Los Cabos, PV, Cozumel) are excluded.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.
    • The Mexican government has established an epidemiological traffic light monitoring system based on the number of cases and risk of contagion to manage the relaxing of restrictions. The status of it varies from state to state.

Caribbean

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  •  
    • Anguilla – Open. Only open to fully vaccinated travelers. Pre- and on-arrival testing required. Quarantine 24 hours until result is known. If negative, you are free to move about island.
    • Antigua and Barbuda – Fully vaccinated tourist \ travelers, do not have to quarantine. However, both they AND crew are required to have a proof of a negative COVID test taken prior to arrival. See official website for details.
    • Aruba – Aruba is accepting flights from all U.S. states. As of July 20, 2021, some U.S. residents who are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 may be exempt from the COVID-19 testing requirement for entry to Aruba. Aruba’s Digital Embarkation-Disembarkation Card (ED card) and health insurance are required.
    • Bahamas – Open. FULLY-VACCINATED TRAVELERS are no longer exempt from the requirement to provide a negative PCR test prior to arrival; testing required prior to arrival for ALL travelers. No quarantine required. This electronic health visa must be completed. Health insurance is required. More info at the Office of the Prime Minister and Reopen Bahamas. Travelers who have completed their vaccine plus two weeks immunity will not be required to take COVID-19 test prior to arrival.
    • Barbados – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers will only need to quarantine 1 day. Pre- and on-arrival testing required, unless coming from a designated “travel bubble” Caribbean island. Quarantine 24 hours until test result is known, after which you are free to move about the island. See details online.
    • Bermuda – Open. Vaccinated travelers will be tested on arrival and must quarantine until results are known (about 24 hours). Then they will be released from quarantine and free to move around. Unvaccinated travelers must quarantine a full 14 days on a gov’t approved location.
    • Bonaire – Open to U.S travelers. Check with us for latest. Must complete a Health Declaration Form at www.bonairepublichealth.org. Quarantine is required unless traveling from “low-risk countries.”.
    • British Virgin Islands (BVI) – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for tourism. Testing pre-arrival, on-arrival, and on day 4 required. Details online. Form must be submitted in advance of arrival on the BVI Gateway Traveller’s Authorization Portal. Contact tracer app required. Immunized travelers will be tested on arrival. Once arrival test result is known, immunized traveler will be exempt from 7-day quarantine. Health insurance is required.
    • Cayman Islands – Cayman authorities announced that on Sept 9, they will allow limited tourism of vaccinated travelers to resume. Pre-arrival PCR tests will be required. Until then, travelers from Canada, EU and the U.S. with securely verifiable vaccination records are allowed entry with a 5 day quarantine. Effective Oct 14, verified vaccinated travelers will no longer need to quarantine. See website for more details.
    • Cuba – Certain parts of country are open for tourism. U.S. sanctions still apply. COVID-19 test upon arrival. Quarantine is required.
    • Curacao – Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and these other countries are permitted to enter Curacao without testing or quarantine.
    • Dominica – Open; however, entry requirements, disembarkation, and quarantine protocols vary depending on the country-of-origin’s risk level (CARICOM Travel Bubble, Low Risk, Medium Risk, High Risk) and whether or not travelers are vaccinated. U.S. sits on high risk, which requires quarantining at an approved “Safe in nature” luxury resort. COVID test on arrival required for all travelers, regardless of vaccination status. Full details online.
    • Dominican Republic – Open to international passengers. Passengers who present a vaccination card and/or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in the Dominican Republic will be exempted from the random test. Universal Aviation DR is open and supporting missions.
    • Grenada – Open. Apply for approval online. Expect to quarantine. Tracer app required. More information online. Persons providing proof of full vaccination will only be required to quarantine for up to 48 hours, pending a negative result from a PCR test administered upon entry.
    • Guadeloupe – French territory. Open for leisure to U.S. travelers.
    • Haiti – Open. No quarantine required for vaccinated travelers.
    • Jamaica – Open. All foreign crew and passengers must obtain travel authorization online prior to arrival. COVID-19 PCR or antigen test on arrival for travelers from high risk countries, like the U.S., at cost of $150 USD. Travelers from India, Trinidad, and six South American countries are prohibited. Quarantine required for length of stay or 14 days, in either a residence or tourist zone (“Resilient Corridor”). Fully vaccinated travelers have the option to shorten their mandatory 8-day quarantine by taking an additional (RT-PCR) for COVID-19 on arrival and with a negative result will be released from quarantine. See full details online.
    • Martinique – French territory – Open to U.S. travelers. Preapproval required.
    • St. Barts – French territory – Open for vaccinated travelers. Negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. Must complete online Health entry form prior to entry.
    • St. Lucia – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers exempt from quarantine. More info online.
    • St. Kitts & Nevis – Open. All travelers who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 must remain in quarantine for at least four days and take a COVID-19 PCR test on the fourth day to exit quaratine. Pre-arrival test and health app required. Details online.
    • Sint Maarten (Dutch side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. However, TNCM falls on the Netherlands side. The Netherlands side is enacting stricter restrictions for passengers from “high-risk” countries. Travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter. Check with us for details based on your specific flight scenario.
    • St. Martin (French side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. French side is closed for tourism.
    • St. Vincent & Grenadines – Fully-vaccinated travelers from high-risk countries (including Canada and U.S.) are required to do pre- and on-arrival testing. 48-hour quarantine required at a government-approved hotel/resort or facility. Testing upon arrival required for crew as well. Aircraft disinfection required. See full details and pre-authorization forms online.
    • Trinidad and Tobago – Fully vaccinated travelers can enter. Apply online in advance. Pre-arrival testing required. Unvaccinated travelers are banned.
    • Turks and Caicos – Open. All travelers to the Turks and Caicos are required to obtain a TCI Assure Travel Authorization at least 24 hours prior to boarding. Persons without authorization will not be permitted to board a flight to the Turks and Caicos. Travel insurance required.
    • USVI and Puerto Rico – See U.S. section above.

Latin America

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Venezuela are still operational and supporting missions.
    • Argentina – Closed UFN. Universal Aviation Argentina is staying on top of the latest.
    • Belize – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE. Vaccinated travelers will need to still present a negative COVID-19 test result for entry.
    • Brazil – COVID test and health entry form for both crew and passengers. Crew are not exempt. Universal Aviation Brazil is following our C19 Health and Safety standards to support you safely.
    • Bolivia – U.S. passengers allowed entry for business. Travel health insurance required.
    • Chile – Until at least August 31, entry is restricted to medical, humanitarian, cargo and foreigners who have been specially authorized to enter by the Chilean diplomatic mission in their country. Travel medical insurance and quarantine required. Universal Aviation Chile is staying on top of the latest.
    • Colombia – International passengers are allowed to arrive in Colombia. CHECK MIG form required on the Colombian Immigration website. SKBO, SKCG, SKRG, and SKCL are open to accept flights from the U.S., Ecuador, Mexico, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Curacao, and Panama.
    • Costa Rica – Open. No quarantine is required. All passengers and crew must have travel insurance and complete this health form in advance.
    • Ecuador – Is permitting persons to enter, but if you are coming from Brazil you will need to quarantine unless you are vaccinated. Health form required. For mainland airports, no test required with proof of both vaccine doses. Galapagos airports SEGS and SEST still require a test.
    • El Salvador – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open. No quarantine. Travelers with proof of COVID-19 immunization are not required to present a negative COVID-19 test result for entry.
    • Falkland Islands – Business flights require special invitation letter. Quarantine and periodic COVID testing required, no exemptions. Leisure flights possible if transiting direct to a private vessel. Contact locator form required. Adequate aeromedical insurance is recommended.
    • Guatemala – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE for entry. Open. No quarantine with proof of a negative COVID-19 test result. Health screening on arrival.
    • Guyana – Advanced screening on arrival. No quarantine.
    • Honduras – Open for business flights. Quarantine not required with proof of a negative test. COVID test on departure required. Travelers with proof of vaccination may be exempt from the testing requirement.
    • Nicaragua – Open. No quarantine. Local contact, aircraft sanitization certificate, and traveler declaration form required.
    • Panama – Open. Quarantine required. Quarantine may be avoided depending on the 14-day travel history. Travelers with digital vaccine certificates proving they have been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior and have a negative COVID test in their IATA Travel Pass will be exempt from further testing requirements at the airport. Must complete an online registration form.
    • Paraguay – Paraguay is open for flights. Proof of Medical insurance required. Health card required.
    • Peru – Reopened for international flights with the exception of those who have been on Brazil, South Africa, or India in the past 14 days.
    • Suriname – Flights require government approval. Health insurance and quarantine required. Aircraft Disinfection Required.
    • Uruguay – Foreign non-residents can enter with special authorization issued by the government and a valid reason to travel. Vaccinated passengers will be exempt from quarantine. Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage is required.
    • Venezuela – Accessible with approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Quarantine at government facility required, up to 14 days. Aircraft Disinfection is required.

Europe

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

    • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Ireland, UK, France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey are all open and supporting missions.
    • Reopen Europe has improved its online tool for helping you assess entry requirements into the EU based on your trip scenario.
    • European countries that are accessible to passengers from the U.S. and other countries not on the EC’s list include:
      • Albania – Open. Health screening upon arrival.
      • Austria – Open. Immunized U.S. travelers can enter for leisure, without testing or self-isolation. Flights from the UK must have valid reason for entry (e.g., business purpose, medical). Flights from Brazil, India, Russia, and South Africa are prohibited UFN. See entry details online.
      • Belarus – Accessible. Travelers from this list of countries will likely have to self-quarantine.
      • Belgium – Open. Immunized travelers (vaccines approved by the European Medicines Agency – EMA) originating from Green Zones (including U.S.), Orange Zones or Red Zones within EU will be allowed entry for nonessential travel. No quarantine required with negative test, proof of vaccination or recovery. Immunized travelers originating from Red Zone outside EU and Very High Risk Zone (Variants of Concern) will quarantine. See specific entry details.
      • Bosnia and Herzegovina – U.S. citizens are allowed entry with a negative COVID test, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery.
      • Croatia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for tourism with negative test, vaccine, or proof of recovery. Travelers from Brazil, Cyprus, Russia, South Africa, Tanzania and the UK must have pre-arrival negative Covid-19 test, regardless of vaccine status. Our Universal Aviation offices in Italy are helping coordinate arrangements to enter Croatia for customers.
      • Cyprus – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery are allowed to enter. See details here. In addition, the country is following this traffic light system. Non-vaccinated travelers must take a PCR test every 7 days while in country.
      • Czech Republic – Borders are open to nationals of all EU-associated countries, USA, and Serbia, provided travelers can provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test OR proof of full vaccination or recovery from COVID-19.
      • Denmark – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other Green/Yellow/Orange category countries can enter without testing or quarantine. There are additional paths in for non-vaccinated travelers. See detailed entry requirements. (Note: Captcha required to access site.)
      • Estonia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other safe countries can enter for any reason. Testing not required with vaccination.
      • Finland – As part of its phased reopening, Finland is easing restrictions since Jul 26 allowing some fully-vaccinated U.S. citizens to enter for essential business or if they have EU citizenship or a residence. Further easing allowing additional categories of vaccinated U.S. travelers is expected Aug 22.
      • France – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for tourism to fully vaccinated non-EU citizens from countries not on the red list. U.S. and Canada sit on the Green List (least restrictive). Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter France for any reason. Our blog article has the full details.
        • France is the first EU country to offer a digital health pass for vaccinated non-EU citizens/residents. Read details here.
        • France now requires that passengers on domestic legs provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative PCR test. In addition, crew will be required to provide this effective Aug. 30. This does not change active crew health entry requirements for international ops into France; just domestic legs in country.
      • Germany – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: U.S. travelers are now allowed for tourism with either a negative test, proof of vaccine, or proof that the passenger had COVID and has recovered. Restrictions apply to travelers from virus-variant areas.
      • Greece – Open to U.S. travelers that are vaccinated OR those who have a negative PCR test result taken 72 hours before arrival. PLF form needs to be filled out at least 24 hours prior to arrival. Travel back and forth from the mainland to islands or vice versa requires PCR test or proof of vaccination. Effective Jul 16 – Aug 31, indoor dining will require proof of vaccine or negative COVID test. More local businesses are expected to require proof of vaccination for entry starting Sept 1. Our FBO ground support offices in Greece are ready to support you. Be sure to submit your parking requests ASAP for best options during Mediterranean summer peak season. Our Greek Islands destination guide has more details.
      • Greenland – Open with prior permission. Proof of vaccination and negative COVID test required for entry.
      • Hungary – U.S. persons can travel to Hungary for essential business. An invitation letter from the receiving party should be submitted in advance for approval. All U.S. passengers approved in for essential business don’t require COVID testing or quarantine.
      • Iceland – Open to travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery. Pre-arrival COVID test also required as of July 27. Full details online.
      • Ireland – Our Universal Aviation offices in Dublin and Shannon can assist.
        • Since July 19, fully-vaccinated travelers from the EU, UK, U.S., and other low risk countries are allowed to enter without testing or quarantine. See full details online.
        • Related to above, since July 19, Ireland is participating in the EU’s Digital Green Pass Program, allowing pass holders with proof of vaccination, recovery, or recent test result.
        • This pre-departure testing provider is available at EIDW for travelers headed to the U.S.
        • U.S. CBP Preclearance is open at Shannon/EINN for GA; however, hours have changed again. Read our blog for details and ops procedures.
        • Shannon has an onsite COVID testing program providing quick turnaround. Appointments are required and can be booked online at https://rocdochealthcheck.ie.
      • Italy – Open to U.S. and Canadian citizens for tourism. Must have one of the following: proof of vaccination, negative test, or proof of recovery. See our blog for details. Universal Aviation Italy is ready to support your missions.
      • Latvia – Open for leisure. Passengers who have been in the EU, EEA, Switzerland, UK, or U.S. for the past 14 days and have proof of vaccine approved by European Medicines Agency or WHO are exempt from pre-arrival Covid-19 testing and quarantine.
      • Macedonia – Open, health screening on arrival. Travelers arriving from India will have to quarantine for 14 days.
      • Malta – Immunized travelers from the USA, which is on the Red list, will be allowed entry.
      • Moldova – Foreign citizens from most Red List countries (including the U.S.) are prohibited, with some exceptions.
      • Montenegro – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open to U.S. citizens. Aircraft disinfection required.
      • Netherlands – The U.S. is on the Safe Countries/Regions List. Travelers from the U.S., regardless of their nationalities, are allowed to travel from the U.S. to the Netherlands without need for pre-arrival test or quarantine. Non-EU/Schengen passengers transiting from high-risk, hotspot countries are very restricted.
      • Norway – Open to Green List EU countries without quarantine. We’re expecting to soon hear about plans for easing to the U.S. soon.
      • Poland – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE for countries on the allowed list only. Allowed travelers, including U.S. citizens, with an EU-approved vaccine OR proof of recovery are exempt from quarantine. U.S. traveler entering with only a proof of negative test result will need to quarantine. The updated flight ban list can be found online.
      • Portugal – Officially open to tourism, including U.S./Canadian travelers. A negative COVID test on arrival is required. Travelers from the UK require proof of vaccination or quarantine for 14 days. Note: Effective July 1, Portugal has implemented a new carbon tax for charter ops.
      • Russia – Allowing international travelers from a number of countries, including the U.S. and Mexico. Pre-arrival PCR test required. Canadians are still prohibited.
      • Serbia – U.S. citizens can enter for business or tourism. No quarantine required. Fully vaccinated travelers from some EU countries are exempt from providing negative COVID-19 test results for entry.
      • Slovak Republic – PCR test and quarantine required for entry. Immunized business travelers with acceptable reason for business can be exempted from quarantine. Travelers from the EU and Schengen region are not required to test or quarantine with proof of vaccine. Travelers from Green countries can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test at any time after arrival. Travelers from Red countries (including USA) can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test on the eighth day of quarantine.
      • Slovenia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE, but only for travelers from countries not on the red list. The U.S. has been moved to GREEN, allowing entry with proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test.
      • Spain – Open. Travelers from the United States, Canada and Mexico can enter Spain for any reason. Our blog article has all the details.
      • Sweden – Sweden – U.S. residents can enter the country directly. COVID test still required. More details here.
      • Switzerland – Open to U.S. and Canadian travelers. Proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative test result required. Quarantine only required for visitors if they have been to any of these countries (note that U.S is NOT on this list) at any time within the last 14 days before entering Switzerland.
      • Turkey – Travelers from high-risk countries (none of which are EU, UK, US, or Canada) must quarantine. Immunized U.S. travelers do not require a pre-arrival COVID test. Other than the high-risk countries above, Turkey remains open on the Mediterranean to Private/Business flights (including leisure) regardless the country of registration and/or nationality of passenger. Our Universal Aviation office in Turkey can provide assistance.
      • Ukraine – Open. Travelers who have completed the vaccine process are exempt from presenting a negative Covid-19 test on arrival. All unvaccinated travelers must undergo 10 days of self-isolation, which can be ended early by passing a second COVID-19 test. Medical insurance and tracer app required. Aircraft disinfection required. Read more online.
      • UK – Accessible. See section below for more details.
    • UK –
      • UK entry requirements – Travelers must follow the UK’s Red, Amber, and Green list rules for entering the UK. NOTE: Effective Aug 8, the country classification list will change, allowing more access for travelers from India, Qatar, UAE and other countries. Mexico will be more restricted.
        • Fully vaccinated travelers from Green List countries don’t require quarantine.
        • Fully vaccinated travelers from the EU and U.S. can enter the UK from an Amber List country using Green list country rules, which means:
          • Test prior to arrival (lateral flow or PCR)
          • Complete pax locator form and book/take a day 2 COVID test
          • No quarantine
        • Unvaccinted travelers from Amber List countries, except UK residents, must quarantine and take COVID-19 tests on the second and eighth days of their quarantine period.
        • International visitors who have visited or transited through any Red list country in the previous 10 days will be refused entry into England. Only British and Irish citizens, or those with residence rights in the UK, will be allowed to enter, and they must stay in a government approved quarantine facility for 10 days, which has to be booked prior to travel.
      • The UK may soon begin to require COVID passes for entry to night clubs and indoor venues. Nothing official yet.
      • Luton’s Night Slot Ban (June 1 – Sept. 30) – London’s Luton Airport announced a new Night Slot Ban is taking effect June 1 through Sept. 30, between the hours of 2200Z to 0600Z. London-Stansted Airport will be the preferred alternative. Read full details on our blog.
      • RAF Northolt Airport in London has extended its M-F operating hours by three hours to 0800-2000L. This is a big deal because as the closest GA-accessible to central London, as well as the closest airport to Heathrow, these longer hours make it a much better option for international operators. Universal Aviation Northolt worked hard to make this happen.
      • Don’t miss your UK-APD payments – Passenger flights out of the UK are subject to Air Passenger Duty (UK-APD) payments, and many operators forget to pay these within the 7-day deadline. Since we have a local office, we can monitor and manage any payments owed on your behalf. Just send a request to our Global Regulatory Team to get started. It’s a fast and easy setup process.
      • A new emissions reporting scheme now applies as a result of Brexit – UK-ETS. If you need help with your UK-ETS monitoring and reporting, we can make this easy for you. Contact our Global Regulatory team directly.

Updated Thursday, August 05, 2021, 8:00 PM EST

United States

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • U.S. – No updates. Presidential proclamations remain in place.
    • On Jan. 12, 2021, the U.S. CDC issued an order requiring proof of a negative viral COVID-19 test (NAAT/PCR or antigen), or medical proof of recovery, for anyone arriving from a foreign country to the U.S. The order went into effect Jan. 26, 2021 for ALL flights, including private flight and GA aircraft. Key points:
      • Only ACTIVE crew members are EXEMPT. You can find the full definition of ACTIVE CREW and some analysis on the various exemption scenarios that we’ve been asked about on our website.
      • Passengers must show aircraft operator proof of negative result, taken with 3 days of boarding, or of recovery prior to boarding.
      • U.S. CDC Approves Home Test for Int’l Arrivals – On May 7, the CDC updated its Order to allow self-administered COVID tests (aka home tests) to qualify for int’l arrivals to the U.S. Note that the CDC has guidance on what home tests will be allowed.
      • Operators of private flights and general aviation must maintain passenger Attestations (i.e., declaration forms) for 2 years. Note: While the operator needs to see the test result, only the Attestations (which can be captured digitally) must be kept on file. We are providing free pre-populated Attestation forms on Universal-managed trips in-bound to the U.S. Ask us for details.
      • The CDC’s website has more information on the order, including the official announcement and FAQs.
      • Note FAA NOTAM reinforcing the CDC order.
    • U.S. Presidential Proclamations remain in place: On April 30, the U.S. travel restrictions were extended to include India. All non-U.S. travelers who have recently been in Brazil, India, South Africa, and most EU countries, including the UK and Ireland, are restricted.
      • CBP has published a bulletin announcing a variety of U.S. visa holders have been granted blanket national interest exceptions to the current entry restrictions on travelers from suspended regions. Note: B1 and B2 visas are not exempt; HOWEVER, read next bullet.
      • The U.S. State Department quietly released a buried update allowing National Interest Waivers (NIWs) to be issued to foreign crew seeking entry to the U.S. for the purposes of training or aircraft pickup, delivery, or maintenance – despite their travel history. Crew must have a B-1/B-2, B-1, or M-1 visa, or Visa Waiver Program authorization to qualify. This is a big one many in the business aviation community have been asking for. We have extensive expertise with NIWs and can assist.
      • All stops in suspended regions, overnight or just tech stops, are treated the same.
      • Entry by any non-U.S. foreign national (that includes Canadian and Mexican citizens) who has been in a suspended region over the past 14 days is HIGHLY RESTRICTED and will be denied, with few exceptions.
    • Expired U.S. Passports for Return Travel – CBP issued this bulletin announcing that U.S. citizens holding a U.S. passport that expired on or after January 1, 2020 may still be able to use their expired U.S. passport for direct return travel to the United States until December 31, 2021.
    • New U.S CBP Documentation Provided for Arrivals – Effective April 26, Part 91 arrivals into the U.S will begin receiving this new document [PDF] with their landing rights packages at select ports. It basically covers roles and responsibilities for both operator and CBP for int’l arrivals. NO ACTION is needed when you get this. It’s just good-to-know info to have in your back pocket.
    • U.S. APIS Update: All GA travelers are now required to provide additional details, including primary phone number and email address, for contact tracing purposes when coming from Guinea or the DROC in response to Ebola. Scheduled airlines have already been doing this. Airport funneling from these destinations is also in effect. While these destinations aren’t the most popular for GA travel, it’s not unlikely that we could see the APIS data collection portion of this requirement expanded to cover arrivals from more countries (e.g., for contact tracing other diseases). Note that Private and Charter flights will have different processes for complying with this based on how APIS information is currently transmitted for each of these two flight types. Read more about this on our blog.
    • Applications for signatory carrier status under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are still being processed. All U.S.-based operators (including some international companies with U.S. subsidiaries) and non-U.S. commercial operators are eligible to apply. If you are not a signatory carrier and qualify, we recommend you apply to increase your operating flexibility. We can help.
    • The National Interest Waiver (NIW) is another avenue foreign nationals can seek for entry into the U.S. and can be an effective means of entry. Allowed purposes of visit include Business, Education, Training, and Medical. Application for entry is available for the following U.S. AOEs: KLAX, KEWR, KDFW, KJFK, and KIAH, as well as through the U.S. Embassy in France and the UK. Our Global Regulatory Services team has worked out the repeatable process to apply at each of these and can provide support.
    • On June 29, the U.S. extended the validity for National Interest Exemptions (NIEs) for travelers from China, Iran, Brazil, S. Africa, the Schengen Area, UK, Ireland, and India by 12 months. Details here.
    • The U.S. STEP Program is an important risk mitigation program that U.S. nationals should be using on every international trip, especially now with COVID. When the first wave hit and we saw the massive wave of lockdowns, this program helped get people on the U.S. Embassy’s evacuation list to return home. It has a whole host of other benefits like if you lose your passport or have medical issues, if there is a terrorist incident or civil unrest, etc. Our Global Regulatory Services team offers an optional, turnkey STEP Registration Service for your trips with us.
    • Any operator entering the U.S. from the south should be taking advantage of the CBP’s Border Overflight Exemption (BOE) program to avoid having to make an extra stop at the first designated AOE when returning home. A BOE is good for 2 years, and it greatly increases your operational flexibility. We can take care of this for you.
    • Non-U.S. charter (non-scheduled commercial) operators flying to/from the U.S. with less than 12 flights per year MUST have a DOT Part 375 Ops Permit and/or Special Authorization. We can assist.
    • Advise passengers and crew to continue maintaining a 14-day travel history log of the countries, states, and cities they visit. This is critical for both travel into the U.S., within it, and abroad.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.
    • Hawaii – Travelers who have been vaccinated in the United States, may enter Hawaii without a negative COVID-19 test. International travelers still require a COVID test at one of Hawaii’s approved testing providers. Additional easing on local restrictions expected as vaccination numbers rise.
    • Puerto Rico – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. See details at www.travelsafe.pr.gov or www.viajaseguro.pr.gov. Proof of negative COVID test required to avoid quarantine. Crew are exempt.
    • USVI – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. Visit the USVI Travel Screening Portal and fill out the info requested in advance. Additional information and testing requirements available on https://usviupdate.com/. Our preferred ground handler at TIST, Standard Aviation, has parking availability and can provide air transfers to neighboring Caribbean islands.

Canada 

  • Canada – No updates. Still awaiting official confirmation on additional funnel airports.
    • Canada announced plans to ease its borders for fully-vaccinated U.S. citizens and residents, effective August 9 – and other fully-vaccinated foreign nationals, effective September 7. Quarantine will no longer be required. It’s also our understanding in talking with CBAA that the intent is for mandatory pre-arrival testing to go away as well, but that’s not clearly spelled out in the regulation. We’ll be looking for more clarity on that. On-arrival testing will only be required on a randomized basis. Read full-details online. Until then, all current procedures restrictions remain in place.
    • All travelers are required to provide their COVID-related information, in advance, via ArriveCAN app or website. Travelers will continue using ArriveCAN after the August 9 border easing.
    • Canada has this online tool to help you assess if you can enter the country.
    • Canada has very strict quarantine requirements for non-citizens and residents entering the country. Active crew are exempt but need to follow these contact collection guidelines.
    • Fully-vaccinated citizens and residents returning to Canada are exempt from quarantine effective July 5. Vaccinated U.S. citizens are not exempt from quarantine.
    • Airport Funneling in Effect – All international passenger flights, including those from the U.S., are required to enter Canada through one of the following four funneling airports: CYYZ/Toronto, CYVR/Vancouver, CYUL/Montreal, and CYYC/Calgary. Medevac, ferry and crew repatriation flights, cargo-only flights, and tech stops where no passengers disembark are exempt. In addition, we’ve learned that Canada will soon add 5 more funneling airports to the 4 already in place. Those 5 new ones will be: Edmonton, Winnipeg, Ottawa, Quebec, and Halifax. It’s not official yet, but it’s coming.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.

Mexico

  • Mexico – No major updates.
    • Mexico is open and accessible. Popular tourist destinations like Los Cabos, Cozumel, PV, and Cancun are active with flights.
    • Our ground handing teams in Mexico (Mexico City/Toluca, Los Cabos, Cancun, Cozumel, PV, Monterrey, etc.) are available to support your missions.
    • AFAC remains closed but is processing AOC renewals and modifications, one time permits, blanket permit modifications, and blanket permit verifications remotely/online. Note that AFAC is working under reduced staffing hours, so application processing will take longer than normal. For assistance with your Mexico permits, we can help.
    • There is a no-touch Covid-19 health assessment form, which is required on arrival/departure. After completing the form, print or screen cap the QR code that is generated for easy access. You’ll need to present this to the health inspectors upon arrival into Mexico. Here is the link: https://afac.hostingerapp.com – Note that you need to actually copy/paste it into your browser; just clicking it will throw an error. A 14-day quarantine at residence may be necessary; however, popular tourist zones in the typical vacation cities (e.g., Cancun, Los Cabos, PV, Cozumel) are excluded.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.
    • The Mexican government has established an epidemiological traffic light monitoring system based on the number of cases and risk of contagion to manage the relaxing of restrictions. The status of it varies from state to state.

Caribbean

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • Anguilla – Open. Only open to fully vaccinated travelers. Pre- and on-arrival testing required. Quarantine 24 hours until result is known. If negative, you are free to move about island.
  • Antigua and Barbuda – Fully vaccinated tourist \ travelers, do not have to quarantine. However, they are still required to provide proof of a negative PCR test result taken within 7 days before arrival. See official website for details.
  • Aruba – Aruba is accepting flights from all U.S. states. As of July 20, 2021, some U.S. residents who are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 may be exempt from the COVID-19 testing requirement for entry to Aruba. Aruba’s Digital Embarkation-Disembarkation Card (ED card) and health insurance are required.
  • Bahamas – Open. As of Aug. 6, FULLY-VACCINATED TRAVELERS are no longer exempt from the requirement to provide a negative PCR test prior to arrival; testing required prior to arrival for ALL travelers. No quarantine required. This electronic health visa must be completed. Health insurance is required. More info at the Office of the Prime Minister and Reopen Bahamas. Travelers who have completed their vaccine plus two weeks immunity will not be required to take COVID-19 test prior to arrival.
  • Barbados – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers will only need to quarantine 1 day. Pre- and on-arrival testing required, unless coming from a designated “travel bubble” Caribbean island. Quarantine 24 hours until test result is known, after which you are free to move about the island. See details online.
  • Bermuda – Open. Vaccinated travelers will be tested on arrival and must quarantine until results are known (about 24 hours). Then they will be released from quarantine and free to move around. Unvaccinated travelers must quarantine a full 14 days on a gov’t approved location.
  • Bonaire – Open to U.S travelers. Check with us for latest. Must complete a Health Declaration Form at www.bonairepublichealth.org. Quarantine is required unless traveling from “low-risk countries.”.
  • British Virgin Islands (BVI) – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for tourism. Testing pre-arrival, on-arrival, and on day 4 required. Details online. Form must be submitted in advance of arrival on the BVI Gateway Traveller’s Authorization Portal. Contact tracer app required. Immunized travelers will be tested on arrival. Once arrival test result is known, immunized traveler will be exempt from 7-day quarantine. Health insurance is required.
  • Cayman Islands – Travelers from Canada, EU and the U.S. with securely verifiable vaccination records are allowed entry with a 5 day quarantine. Effective Oct 14, verified vaccinated travelers will no longer need to quarantine. See website for more details.
  • Cuba – Certain parts of country are open for tourism. U.S. sanctions still apply. COVID-19 test upon arrival. Quarantine is required.
  • Curacao – Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and these other countries are permitted to enter Curacao without testing or quarantine.
  • Dominica – Open; however, entry requirements, disembarkation, and quarantine protocols vary depending on the country-of-origin’s risk level (CARICOM Travel Bubble, Low Risk, Medium Risk, High Risk) and whether or not travelers are vaccinated. U.S. sits on high risk, which requires quarantining at an approved “Safe in nature” luxury resort. Full details online.
  • Dominican Republic – Open to international passengers. Passengers who present a vaccination card and/or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in the Dominican Republic will be exempted from the random test. Universal Aviation DR is open and supporting missions.
  • Grenada – Open. Apply for approval online. Expect to quarantine. Tracer app required. More information online. Persons providing proof of full vaccination will only be required to quarantine for up to 48 hours, pending a negative result from a PCR test administered upon entry.
  • Guadeloupe – French territory. Open for leisure to U.S. travelers.
  • Haiti – Open. No quarantine required for vaccinated travelers.
  • Jamaica – Open. All foreign crew and passengers must obtain travel authorization online prior to arrival. Travelers from India, Trinidad, and six South American countries are prohibited. Quarantine required for length of stay or 14 days, in either a residence or tourist zone (“Resilient Corridor”). Fully vaccinated travelers have the option to shorten their mandatory 8-day quarantine by taking an additional (RT-PCR) for COVID-19 on arrival and with a negative result will be released from quarantine. See full details online.
  • Martinique – French territory – Open to U.S. travelers. Preapproval required.
  • St. Barts – French territory – Open for vaccinated travelers. Read announcement.
  • St. Lucia – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers exempt from quarantine. More info online.
  • St. Kitts & Nevis – Open. Three-day quarantine for vaccinated travelers, with negative test result on day 4. Details online.
  • Sint Maarten (Dutch side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. However, TNCM falls on the Netherlands side. The Netherlands side is enacting stricter restrictions for passengers from “high-risk” countries. Travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter. Check with us for details based on your specific flight scenario.
  • St. Martin (French side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. French side is closed for tourism.
  • St. Vincent & Grenadines – Fully-vaccinated travelers from high-risk countries (including Canada and U.S.) are required to do pre- and on-arrival testing. 48-hour quarantine required at a government-approved hotel/resort or facility. Testing upon arrival required for crew as well. Aircraft disinfection required. See full details and pre-authorization forms online.
  • Trinidad and Tobago – Fully vaccinated travelers can enter. Apply online in advance. Pre-arrival testing required. Unvaccinated travelers are banned.
  • Turks and Caicos – Open. All travelers to the Turks and Caicos are required to obtain a TCI Assure Travel Authorization at least 24 hours prior to boarding. Persons without authorization will not be permitted to board a flight to the Turks and Caicos. Travel insurance required.
  • USVI and Puerto Rico – See U.S. section above

Latin America

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Venezuela are still operational and supporting missions.
  • Argentina – Closed UFN. Universal Aviation Argentina is staying on top of the latest.
  • Belize – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE. Travelers with proof of COVID-19 immunization are no longer required to present a negative COVID-19 test result for entry.
  • Brazil – COVID test and health entry form for both crew and passengers. Crew are not exempt. Universal Aviation Brazil is following our C19 Health and Safety standards to support you safely.
  • Bolivia – U.S. passengers allowed entry for business. Travel health insurance required.
  • Chile – Until at least August 31, entry is restricted to medical, humanitarian, cargo and foreigners who have been specially authorized to enter by the Chilean diplomatic mission in their country. Travel medical insurance and quarantine required. Universal Aviation Chile is staying on top of the latest.
  • Colombia – International passengers are allowed to arrive in Colombia. CHECK MIG form required on the Colombian Immigration website. SKBO, SKCG, SKRG, and SKCL are open to accept flights from the U.S., Ecuador, Mexico, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Curacao, and Panama.
  • Costa Rica – Open. No quarantine is required. All passengers and crew must have travel insurance and complete this health form in advance.
  • Ecuador – Is permitting persons to enter, but if you are coming from Brazil you will need to quarantine unless you are vaccinated. Health form required. For mainland airports, no test required with proof of both vaccine doses. Galapagos airports SEGS and SEST still require a test.
  • El Salvador – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open. No quarantine. Travelers with proof of COVID-19 immunization are not required to present a negative COVID-19 test result for entry.
  • Falkland Islands – Business flights require special invitation letter. Quarantine and periodic COVID testing required, no exemptions. Leisure flights possible if transiting direct to a private vessel. Contact locator form required. Adequate aeromedical insurance is recommended.
  • Guatemala – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE for entry. Open. No quarantine. Health screening on arrival.
  • Guyana – Advanced screening on arrival. No quarantine.
  • Honduras – Open for business flights. Quarantine not required with proof of a negative test. COVID test on departure required. Travelers with proof of vaccination may be exempt from the testing requirement.
  • Nicaragua – Open. No quarantine. Local contact, aircraft sanitization certificate, and traveler declaration form required.
  • Panama – Open. Quarantine required. Quarantine may be avoided depending on the 14-day travel history. Travelers with digital vaccine certificates proving they have been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior and have a negative COVID test in their IATA Travel Pass will be exempt from further testing requirements at the airport. Must complete an online registration form.
  • Paraguay – Paraguay is open for flights. Proof of Medical insurance required. Health card required.
  • Peru – Reopened for international flights with the exception of those who have been on Brazil, South Africa, or India in the past 14 days.
  • Suriname – Flights require government approval. Health insurance and quarantine required. Aircraft Disinfection Required.
  • Uruguay – Foreign non-residents can enter with special authorization issued by the government and a valid reason to travel. Vaccinated passengers will be exempt from quarantine. Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage is required.
  • Venezuela – Accessible with approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Quarantine at government facility required, up to 14 days. Aircraft Disinfection is required.

Europe

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Ireland, UK, France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey are all open and supporting missions.
  • Reopen Europe has improved its online tool for helping you assess entry requirements into the EU based on your trip scenario.
  • European countries that are accessible to passengers from the U.S. and other countries not on the EC’s list include:
    • Albania – Open. Health screening upon arrival.
    • Austria – Open. Immunized U.S. travelers can enter for leisure, without testing or self-isolation. Flights from the UK must have valid reason for entry (e.g., business purpose, medical). Flights from Brazil, India, Russia, and South Africa are prohibited UFN. See entry details online.
    • Belarus – Accessible. Travelers from this list of countries will likely have to self-quarantine.
    • Belgium – Open. Immunized travelers (vaccines approved by the European Medicines Agency – EMA) originating from Green Zones (including U.S.), Orange Zones or Red Zones within EU will be allowed entry for nonessential travel. No quarantine required with negative test, proof of vaccination or recovery. Immunized travelers originating from Red Zone outside EU and Very High Risk Zone (Variants of Concern) will quarantine. See specific entry details.
    • Bosnia and Herzegovina – U.S. citizens are allowed entry with a negative COVID test, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery.
    • Croatia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for tourism with negative test, vaccine, or proof of recovery. Travelers from Cyprus, Russia and the UK must have pre-arrival negative Covid-19 test, regardless of vaccine status. Our Universal Aviation offices in Italy are helping coordinate arrangements to enter Croatia for customers.
    • Cyprus – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery are allowed to enter. See details here. In addition, the country is following this traffic light system. Non-vaccinated travelers must take a PCR test every 7 days while in country.
    • Czech Republic – Borders are open to nationals of all EU-associated countries, USA, and Serbia, provided travelers can provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test OR proof of full vaccination or recovery from COVID-19.
    • Denmark – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other Green/Yellow/Orange category countries can enter without testing or quarantine. There are additional paths in for non-vaccinated travelers. See detailed entry requirements. (Note: Captcha required to access site.)
    • Estonia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other safe countries can enter for any reason. Testing not required with vaccination.
    • Finland – As part of its phased reopening, Finland is easing restrictions since Jul 26 allowing some fully-vaccinated U.S. citizens to enter for essential business or if they have EU citizenship or a residence. Further easing allowing additional categories of vaccinated U.S. travelers is expected Aug 22.
    • France – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for tourism to fully vaccinated non-EU citizens from countries not on the red list. U.S. and Canada sit on the Green List (least restrictive). Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter France for any reason. Our blog article has the full details.
    • Germany – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: U.S. travelers are now allowed for tourism with either a negative test, proof of vaccine, or proof that the passenger had COVID and has recovered. Restrictions apply to travelers from virus-variant areas.
    • Greece – Open to U.S. travelers that are vaccinated OR those who have a negative PCR test result taken 72 hours before arrival. PLF form needs to be filled out at least 24 hours prior to arrival. Travel back and forth from the mainland to islands or vice versa requires PCR test or proof of vaccination. Effective Jul 16 – Aug 31, indoor dining will require proof of vaccine or negative COVID test. More local businesses are expected to require proof of vaccination for entry starting Sept 1. Our FBO ground support offices in Greece are ready to support you. Be sure to submit your parking requests ASAP for best options during Mediterranean summer peak season. Our Greek Islands destination guide has more details.
    • Hungary – U.S. persons can travel to Hungary for essential business. An invitation letter from the receiving party should be submitted in advance for approval. All U.S. passengers approved in for essential business don’t require COVID testing or quarantine.
    • Iceland – Open to travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery. Pre-arrival COVID test also required as of July 27. Full details online.
    • Ireland – Our Universal Aviation offices in Dublin and Shannon can assist.
      • Since July 19, fully-vaccinated travelers from the EU, UK, U.S., and other low risk countries are allowed to enter without testing or quarantine. See full details online.
      • Related to above, since July 19, Ireland is participating in the EU’s Digital Green Pass Program, allowing pass holders with proof of vaccination, recovery, or recent test result.
      • This pre-departure testing provider is available at EIDW for travelers headed to the U.S.
      • U.S. CBP Preclearance is open at Shannon/EINN for GA; however, hours have changed again. Read our blog for details and ops procedures.
      • Shannon has an onsite COVID testing program providing quick turnaround. Appointments are required and can be booked online at https://rocdochealthcheck.ie.
    • Italy – Open to U.S. and Canadian citizens for tourism. Must have one of the following: proof of vaccination, negative test, or proof of recovery. See our blog for details. Universal Aviation Italy is ready to support your missions.
    • Latvia – Open for leisure. Passengers who have been in the EU, EEA, Switzerland, UK, or U.S. for the past 14 days and have proof of vaccine approved by European Medicines Agency or WHO are exempt from pre-arrival Covid-19 testing and quarantine.
    • Macedonia – Open, health screening on arrival. Travelers arriving from India will have to quarantine for 14 days.
    • Malta – Immunized travelers from the USA, which is on the Red list, will be allowed entry.
    • Moldova – Foreign citizens from most Red List countries (including the U.S.) are prohibited, with some exceptions.
    • Montenegro – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open to U.S. citizens. Aircraft disinfection required.
    • Netherlands – The U.S. is on the Safe Countries/Regions List. Travelers from the U.S., regardless of their nationalities, are allowed to travel from the U.S. to the Netherlands without need for pre-arrival test or quarantine. Non-EU/Schengen passengers transiting from high-risk, hotspot countries are very restricted.
    • Norway – Open to Green List EU countries without quarantine. We’re expecting to soon hear about plans for easing to the U.S. soon.
    • Poland – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE for countries on the allowed list only. Allowed travelers, including U.S. citizens, with an EU-approved vaccine OR proof of recovery are exempt from quarantine. U.S. traveler entering with only a proof of negative test result will need to quarantine. The updated flight ban list can be found online.
    • Portugal – Officially open to tourism, including U.S./Canadian travelers. A negative COVID test on arrival is required. Travelers from the UK require proof of vaccination or quarantine for 14 days.
    • Russia – Allowing international travelers from a number of countries, including the U.S. Pre-arrival PCR test required. Canadians are still prohibited.
    • Serbia – U.S. citizens can enter for business or tourism. No quarantine required. Fully vaccinated travelers from some EU countries are exempt from providing negative COVID-19 test results for entry.
    • Slovak Republic – PCR test and quarantine required for entry. Immunized business travelers with acceptable reason for business can be exempted from quarantine. Travelers from the EU and Schengen region are not required to test or quarantine with proof of vaccine. Travelers from Green countries can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test at any time after arrival. Travelers from Red countries (including USA) can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test on the eighth day of quarantine.
    • Slovenia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE, but only for travelers from countries not on the red list. The U.S. has been moved to GREEN, allowing entry with proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test.
    • Spain – Open. Travelers from the United States, Canada and Mexico can enter Spain for any reason. Our blog article has all the details.
    • Sweden – Sweden – U.S. residents can enter the country directly. COVID test still required. More details here.
    • Switzerland – Open to U.S. travelers. Proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative test result required. Quarantine only required for visitors if they have been to any of these countries (note that U.S is NOT on this list) at any time within the last 14 days before entering Switzerland.
    • Turkey – Travelers from high-risk countries (none of which are EU, UK, US, or Canada) must quarantine. Immunized U.S. travelers do not require a pre-arrival COVID test. Other than the high-risk countries above, Turkey remains open on the Mediterranean to Private/Business flights (including leisure) regardless the country of registration and/or nationality of passenger. Our Universal Aviation office in Turkey can provide assistance.
    • Ukraine – Open. Travelers who have completed the vaccine process are exempt from presenting a negative Covid-19 test on arrival. All unvaccinated travelers must undergo 10 days of self-isolation, which can be ended early by passing a second COVID-19 test. Medical insurance and tracer app required. Aircraft disinfection required. Read more online.
    • UK – Accessible. See section below for more details.
  • UK –
    • The quarantine requirement for fully vaccinated travellers from the EU and the US arriving in England from an amber list country officially expired Aug. 2, 2021.
    • UK entry requirements – Travelers must follow the UK’s Red, Amber, and Green list rules for entering the UK. NOTE: Effective Aug 8, the country classification list will change, allowing more access for travelers from India, Qatar, UAE and other countries. Mexico will be more restricted.
      • Fully vaccinated travelers from Green List countries don’t require quarantine.
      • Fully vaccinated travelers from the EU and U.S. can enter the UK from an Amber List country using Green list country rules, which means:
        • Test prior to arrival (lateral flow or PCR)
        • Complete pax locator form and book/take a day 2 COVID test
        • No quarantine
      • Unvaccinted travelers from Amber List countries, except UK residents, must quarantine and take COVID-19 tests on the second and eighth days of their quarantine period.
      • International visitors who have visited or transited through any Red list country in the previous 10 days will be refused entry into England. Only British and Irish citizens, or those with residence rights in the UK, will be allowed to enter, and they must stay in a government approved quarantine facility for 10 days, which has to be booked prior to travel.
    • The UK may soon begin to require COVID passes for entry to night clubs and indoor venues. Nothing official yet.
    • Luton’s Night Slot Ban (June 1 – Sept. 30) – London’s Luton Airport announced a new Night Slot Ban is taking effect June 1 through Sept. 30, between the hours of 2200Z to 0600Z. London-Stansted Airport will be the preferred alternative. Read full details on our blog.
    • RAF Northolt Airport in London has extended its M-F operating hours by three hours to 0800-2000L. This is a big deal because as the closest GA-accessible to central London, as well as the closest airport to Heathrow, these longer hours make it a much better option for international operators. Universal Aviation Northolt worked hard to make this happen.
    • Don’t miss your UK-APD payments – Passenger flights out of the UK are subject to Air Passenger Duty (UK-APD) payments, and many operators forget to pay these within the 7-day deadline. Since we have a local office, we can monitor and manage any payments owed on your behalf. Just send a request to our Global Regulatory Team to get started. It’s a fast and easy setup process.
    • A new emissions reporting scheme now applies as a result of Brexit – UK-ETS. If you need help with your UK-ETS monitoring and reporting, we can make this easy for you. Contact our Global Regulatory team directly.

Updated Thursday, July 29, 2021, 8:00 PM EST

 United States

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • U.S. – No updates. Presidential proclamations remain in place.
    • On Jan. 12, 2021, the U.S. CDC issued an order requiring proof of a negative viral COVID-19 test (NAAT/PCR or antigen), or medical proof of recovery, for anyone arriving from a foreign country to the U.S. The order went into effect Jan. 26, 2021 for ALL flights, including private flight and GA aircraft. Key points:
      • Only ACTIVE crew members are EXEMPT. You can find the full definition of ACTIVE CREW and some analysis on the various exemption scenarios that we’ve been asked about on our website.
      • Passengers must show aircraft operator proof of negative result, taken with 3 days of boarding, or of recovery prior to boarding.
      • U.S. CDC Approves Home Test for Int’l Arrivals – On May 7, the CDC updated its Order to allow self-administered COVID tests (aka home tests) to qualify for int’l arrivals to the U.S. Note that the CDC has guidance on what home tests will be allowed.
      • Operators of private flights and general aviation must maintain passenger Attestations (i.e., declaration forms) for 2 years. Note: While the operator needs to see the test result, only the Attestations (which can be captured digitally) must be kept on file. We are providing free pre-populated Attestation forms on Universal-managed trips in-bound to the U.S. Ask us for details.
      • The CDC’s website has more information on the order, including the official announcement and FAQs.
      • Note FAA NOTAM reinforcing the CDC order.
    • U.S. Presidential Proclamations remain in place: On April 30, the U.S. travel restrictions were extended to include India. All non-U.S. travelers who have recently been in Brazil, India, South Africa, and most EU countries, including the UK and Ireland, are restricted.
      • CBP has published a bulletin announcing a variety of U.S. visa holders have been granted blanket national interest exceptions to the current entry restrictions on travelers from suspended regions. Note: B1 and B2 visas are not exempt; HOWEVER, read next bullet.
      • The U.S. State Department quietly released a buried update allowing National Interest Waivers (NIWs) to be issued to foreign crew seeking entry to the U.S. for the purposes of training or aircraft pickup, delivery, or maintenance – despite their travel history. Crew must have a B-1/B-2, B-1, or M-1 visa, or Visa Waiver Program authorization to qualify. This is a big one many in the business aviation community have been asking for. We have extensive expertise with NIWs and can assist.
      • All stops in suspended regions, overnight or just tech stops, are treated the same.
      • Entry by any non-U.S. foreign national (that includes Canadian and Mexican citizens) who has been in a suspended region over the past 14 days is HIGHLY RESTRICTED and will be denied, with few exceptions.
    • Expired U.S. Passports for Return Travel – CBP issued this bulletin announcing that U.S. citizens holding a U.S. passport that expired on or after January 1, 2020 may still be able to use their expired U.S. passport for direct return travel to the United States until December 31, 2021.
    • New U.S CBP Documentation Provided for Arrivals – Effective April 26, Part 91 arrivals into the U.S will begin receiving this new document [PDF] with their landing rights packages at select ports. It basically covers roles and responsibilities for both operator and CBP for int’l arrivals. NO ACTION is needed when you get this. It’s just good-to-know info to have in your back pocket.
    • U.S. APIS Update: All GA travelers are now required to provide additional details, including primary phone number and email address, for contact tracing purposes when coming from Guinea or the DROC in response to Ebola. Scheduled airlines have already been doing this. Airport funneling from these destinations is also in effect. While these destinations aren’t the most popular for GA travel, it’s not unlikely that we could see the APIS data collection portion of this requirement expanded to cover arrivals from more countries (e.g., for contact tracing other diseases). Note that Private and Charter flights will have different processes for complying with this based on how APIS information is currently transmitted for each of these two flight types. Read more about this on our blog.
    • Applications for signatory carrier status under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are still being processed. All U.S.-based operators (including some international companies with U.S. subsidiaries) and non-U.S. commercial operators are eligible to apply. If you are not a signatory carrier and qualify, we recommend you apply to increase your operating flexibility. We can help.
    • The National Interest Waiver (NIW) is another avenue foreign nationals can seek for entry into the U.S. and can be an effective means of entry. Allowed purposes of visit include Business, Education, Training, and Medical. Application for entry is available for the following U.S. AOEs: KLAX, KEWR, KDFW, KJFK, and KIAH, as well as through the U.S. Embassy in France and the UK. Our Global Regulatory Services team has worked out the repeatable process to apply at each of these and can provide support.
    • On June 29, the U.S. extended the validity for National Interest Exemptions (NIEs) for travelers from China, Iran, Brazil, S. Africa, the Schengen Area, UK, Ireland, and India by 12 months. Details here.
    • The U.S. STEP Program is an important risk mitigation program that U.S. nationals should be using on every international trip, especially now with COVID. When the first wave hit and we saw the massive wave of lockdowns, this program helped get people on the U.S. Embassy’s evacuation list to return home. It has a whole host of other benefits like if you lose your passport or have medical issues, if there is a terrorist incident or civil unrest, etc. Our Global Regulatory Services team offers an optional, turnkey STEP Registration Service for your trips with us.
    • Any operator entering the U.S. from the south should be taking advantage of the CBP’s Border Overflight Exemption (BOE) program to avoid having to make an extra stop at the first designated AOE when returning home. A BOE is good for 2 years, and it greatly increases your operational flexibility. We can take care of this for you.
    • Non-U.S. charter (non-scheduled commercial) operators flying to/from the U.S. with less than 12 flights per year MUST have a DOT Part 375 Ops Permit and/or Special Authorization. We can assist.
    • Advise passengers and crew to continue maintaining a 14-day travel history log of the countries, states, and cities they visit. This is critical for both travel into the U.S., within it, and abroad.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.
    • Hawaii – Travelers who have been vaccinated in the United States, may enter Hawaii without a negative COVID-19 test. International travelers still require a COVID test at one of Hawaii’s approved testing providers. Additional easing on local restrictions expected as vaccination numbers rise.
    • Puerto Rico – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. See details at www.travelsafe.pr.gov or www.viajaseguro.pr.gov. Proof of negative COVID test required to avoid quarantine. Crew are exempt.
    • USVI – No pre-testing required for full-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. Visit the USVI Travel Screening Portal and fill out the info requested in advance. Additional information and testing requirements available on https://usviupdate.com/. Our preferred ground handler at TIST, Standard Aviation, has parking availability and can provide air transfers to neighboring Caribbean islands.
    • Alaska – Alaska’s travel mandates and orders are now just travel advisories. Full entry details online.

Canada 

  • Canada – No updates. Still awaiting official confirmation on additional funnel airports.
    • Canada announced plans to ease its borders for fully-vaccinated U.S. citizens and residents, effective August 9 – and other fully-vaccinated foreign nationals, effective September 7. Quarantine will no longer be required. It’s also our understanding in talking with CBAA that the intent is for mandatory pre-arrival testing to go away as well, but that’s not clearly spelled out in the regulation. We’ll be looking for more clarity on that. On-arrival testing will only be required on a randomized basis. Read full-details online. Until then, all current procedures restrictions remain in place.
    • All travelers are required to provide their COVID-related information, in advance, via ArriveCAN app or website. Travelers will continue using ArriveCAN after the August 9 border easing.
    • Canada has this online tool to help you assess if you can enter the country.
    • Canada has very strict quarantine requirements for non-citizens and residents entering the country. Active crew are exempt but need to follow these contact collection guidelines.
    • Fully-vaccinated citizens and residents returning to Canada are exempt from quarantine effective July 5. Vaccinated U.S. citizens are not exempt from quarantine.
    • Airport Funneling in Effect – All international passenger flights, including those from the U.S., are required to enter Canada through one of the following four funneling airports: CYYZ/Toronto, CYVR/Vancouver, CYUL/Montreal, and CYYC/Calgary. Medevac, ferry and crew repatriation flights, cargo-only flights, and tech stops where no passengers disembark are exempt. In addition, we’ve learned that Canada will soon add 5 more funneling airports to the 4 already in place. Those 5 new ones will be: Edmonton, Winnipeg, Ottawa, Quebec, and Halifax. It’s not official yet, but it’s coming.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.

Mexico

  • Mexico – No major updates.
    • Mexico is open and accessible. Popular tourist destinations like Los Cabos, Cozumel, PV, and Cancun are active with flights.
    • Our ground handing teams in Mexico (Mexico City/Toluca, Los Cabos, Cancun, Cozumel, PV, Monterrey, etc.) are available to support your missions.
    • AFAC remains closed but is processing AOC renewals and modifications, one time permits, blanket permit modifications, and blanket permit verifications remotely/online. Note that AFAC is working under reduced staffing hours, so application processing will take longer than normal. For assistance with your Mexico permits, we can help.
    • There is a no-touch Covid-19 health assessment form, which is required on arrival/departure. After completing the form, print or screen cap the QR code that is generated for easy access. You’ll need to present this to the health inspectors upon arrival into Mexico. Here is the link: https://afac.hostingerapp.com – Note that you need to actually copy/paste it into your browser; just clicking it will throw an error. A 14-day quarantine at residence may be necessary; however, popular tourist zones in the typical vacation cities (e.g., Cancun, Los Cabos, PV, Cozumel) are excluded.
    • Restrictions on non-essential travel for USA/Canada/Mexico land borders have been extended until Aug 21, 2021 per latest DHS tweet.
    • The Mexican government has established an epidemiological traffic light monitoring system based on the number of cases and risk of contagion to manage the relaxing of restrictions. The status of it varies from state to state.

Caribbean

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • Anguilla – Open. Only open to fully vaccinated travelers. Pre- and on-arrival testing required. Quarantine 24 hours until result is known. If negative, you are free to move about island.
  • Antigua and Barbuda – Fully vaccinated tourist \ travelers, do not have to quarantine. However, they are still required to provide proof of a negative PCR test result taken within 7 days before arrival. See official website for details.
  • Aruba – Aruba is accepting flights from all U.S. states. As of July 20, 2021, some U.S. residents who are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 may be exempt from the COVID-19 testing requirement for entry to Aruba. Aruba’s Digital Embarkation-Disembarkation Card (ED card) and health insurance are required.
  • Bahamas – Open. No quarantine required. This electronic health visa must be completed. Health insurance is required. More info at the Office of the Prime Minister and Reopen Bahamas. Travelers who have completed their vaccine plus two weeks immunity will not be required to take COVID-19 test prior to arrival.
  • Barbados – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers will only need to quarantine 1 day. Pre- and on-arrival testing required, unless coming from a designated “travel bubble” Caribbean island. Quarantine 24 hours until test result is known, after which you are free to move about the island. See details online.
  • Bermuda – Open. Vaccinated travelers will be tested on arrival and must quarantine until results are known (about 24 hours). Then they will be released from quarantine and free to move around. Unvaccinated travelers must quarantine a full 14 days on a gov’t approved location.
  • Bonaire – Open to U.S travelers. Check with us for latest. Must complete a Health Declaration Form at www.bonairepublichealth.org. Quarantine is required unless traveling from “low-risk countries.”.
  • British Virgin Islands (BVI) – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for tourism. Testing pre-arrival, on-arrival, and on day 4 required. Details online. Form must be submitted in advance of arrival on the BVI Gateway Traveller’s Authorization Portal. Contact tracer app required. Immunized travelers will be tested on arrival. Once arrival test result is known, immunized traveler will be exempt from 7-day quarantine. Health insurance is required.
  • Cayman Islands – Effective July 26, 2021, travelers from Canada, EU and the U.S. with securely verifiable vaccination records are allowed entry with a 5 day quarantine. See website for more details.
  • Cuba – Certain parts of country are open for tourism. U.S. sanctions still apply. COVID-19 test upon arrival. Quarantine is required.
  • Curacao – Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and these other countries are permitted to enter Curacao without testing or quarantine.
  • Dominica – Open; however, entry requirements, disembarkation, and quarantine protocols vary depending on the country-of-origin’s risk level (CARICOM Travel Bubble, Low Risk, Medium Risk, High Risk) and whether or not travelers are vaccinated. U.S. sits on high risk, which requires quarantining at an approved “Safe in nature” luxury resort. Full details online.
  • Dominican Republic – Open to international passengers. Passengers who present a vaccination card and/or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in the Dominican Republic will be exempted from the random test. Universal Aviation DR is open and supporting missions.
  • Grenada – Open. Apply for approval online. Expect to quarantine. Tracer app required. More information online. Persons providing proof of full vaccination will only be required to quarantine for up to 48 hours, pending a negative result from a PCR test administered upon entry.
  • Guadeloupe – French territory. Open for leisure to U.S. travelers.
  • Haiti – Open. No quarantine required for vaccinated travelers.
  • Jamaica – Open. All foreign crew and passengers must obtain travel authorization online prior to arrival. Travelers from India, Trinidad, and six South American countries are prohibited. Quarantine required for length of stay or 14 days, in either a residence or tourist zone (“Resilient Corridor”). Fully vaccinated travelers have the option to shorten their mandatory 8-day quarantine by taking an additional (RT-PCR) for COVID-19 on arrival and with a negative result will be released from quarantine. See full details online.
  • Martinique – French territory – Open to U.S. travelers. Preapproval required.
  • St. Barts – French territory – Open for vaccinated travelers. Read announcement.
  • St. Lucia – Open. Fully-vaccinated travelers exempt from quarantine. More info online.
  • St. Kitts & Nevis – Open. Three-day quarantine for vaccinated travelers, with negative test result on day 4. Details online.
  • Sint Maarten (Dutch side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. However, TNCM falls on the Netherlands side. The Netherlands side is enacting stricter restrictions for passengers from “high-risk” countries. Travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter. Check with us for details based on your specific flight scenario.
  • St. Martin (French side) – The island is split between France and the Netherlands. French side is closed for tourism.
  • St. Vincent & Grenadines – Fully-vaccinated travelers from high-risk countries (including Canada and U.S.) are required to do pre- and on-arrival testing. 48-hour quarantine required at a government-approved hotel/resort or facility. Testing upon arrival required for crew as well. Aircraft disinfection required. See full details and pre-authorization forms online.
  • Trinidad and Tobago – Fully vaccinated travelers can enter. Apply online in advance. Pre-arrival testing required. Unvaccinated travelers are banned.
  • Turks and Caicos – Open. All travelers to the Turks and Caicos are required to obtain a TCI Assure Travel Authorization at least 24 hours prior to boarding. Persons without authorization will not be permitted to board a flight to the Turks and Caicos. Travel insurance required.
  • USVI and Puerto Rico – See U.S. section above.

Latin America

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Venezuela are still operational and supporting missions.
  • Argentina – Closed UFN. Universal Aviation Argentina is staying on top of the latest.
  • Belize – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE. Travelers with proof of COVID-19 immunization are no longer required to present a negative COVID-19 test result for entry.
  • Brazil – COVID test and health entry form for both crew and passengers. Crew are not exempt. Universal Aviation Brazil is following our C19 Health and Safety standards to support you safely.
  • Bolivia – U.S. passengers allowed entry for business. Travel health insurance required.
  • Chile – Until at least August 31, entry is restricted to medical, humanitarian, cargo and foreigners who have been specially authorized to enter by the Chilean diplomatic mission in their country. Travel medical insurance and quarantine required. Universal Aviation Chile is staying on top of the latest.
  • Colombia – International passengers are allowed to arrive in Colombia. CHECK MIG form required on the Colombian Immigration website. SKBO, SKCG, SKRG, and SKCL are open to accept flights from the U.S., Ecuador, Mexico, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Curacao, and Panama.
  • Costa Rica – Open. No quarantine is required. All passengers and crew must have travel insurance and complete this health form in advance.
  • Ecuador – Is permitting persons to enter, but if you are coming from Brazil you will need to quarantine unless you are vaccinated. Health form required. For mainland airports, no test required with proof of both vaccine doses. Galapagos airports SEGS and SEST still require a test.
  • El Salvador – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open. No quarantine. Travelers with proof of COVID-19 immunization are not required to present a negative COVID-19 test result for entry.
  • Falkland Islands – Business flights require special invitation letter. Quarantine and periodic COVID testing required, no exemptions. Leisure flights possible if transiting direct to a private vessel. Contact locator form required. Adequate aeromedical insurance is recommended.
  • Guatemala – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE for entry. Open. No quarantine. Health screening on arrival.
  • Guyana – Advanced screening on arrival. No quarantine.
  • Honduras – Open for business flights. Quarantine not required with proof of a negative test. COVID test on departure required. Travelers with proof of vaccination may be exempt from the testing requirement.
  • Nicaragua – Open. No quarantine. Local contact, aircraft sanitization certificate, and traveler declaration form required.
  • Panama – Open. Testing on arrival and quarantine are required. Quarantine may be avoided depending on the 14-day travel history. Travelers with digital vaccine certificates proving they have been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior and have a negative COVID test in their IATA Travel Pass will be exempt from further testing requirements at the airport. Must complete an online registration form.
  • Paraguay – Paraguay is open for flights. Proof of Medical insurance required. Health card required.
  • Peru – Reopened for international flights with the exception of those who have been on Brazil, South Africa, or India in the past 14 days.
  • Suriname – Flights require government approval. Health insurance and quarantine required. Aircraft Disinfection Required.
  • Uruguay – Foreign non-residents can enter with special authorization issued by the government and a valid reason to travel. Vaccinated passengers will be exempt from quarantine. Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage is required.
  • Venezuela – Accessible with approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Quarantine at government facility required, up to 14 days. Aircraft Disinfection is required.

Europe

Travelers from variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited a variant virus hotspot, including the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • Our FBOs and ground handling offices in Ireland, UK, France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey are all open and supporting missions.
  • Reopen Europe has improved its online tool for helping you assess entry requirements into the EU based on your trip scenario.
  • European countries that are accessible to passengers from the U.S. and other countries not on the EC’s list include:
    • Albania – Open. Health screening upon arrival.
    • Austria – Effective July 1, immunized U.S. travelers can enter for leisure, without testing or self-isolation. Flights from the UK must have valid reason for entry (e.g., business purpose, medical). Flights from Brazil, India, Russia, and South Africa are prohibited UFN. See entry details online.
    • Belarus – Accessible. Travelers from this list of countries will likely have to self-quarantine.
    • Belgium – Open. Immunized travelers (vaccines approved by the European Medicines Agency – EMA) originating from Green Zones (including U.S.), Orange Zones or Red Zones within EU will be allowed entry for nonessential travel. No quarantine required with negative test, proof of vaccination or recovery. Immunized travelers originating from Red Zone outside EU and Very High Risk Zone (Variants of Concern) will quarantine. See specific entry details.
    • Bosnia and Herzegovina – U.S. citizens are allowed entry with a negative COVID test, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery.
    • Croatia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for tourism with negative test, vaccine, or proof of recovery. Travelers from Cyprus, Russia and the UK must have pre-arrival negative Covid-19 test, regardless of vaccine status. Our Universal Aviation offices in Italy are helping coordinate arrangements to enter Croatia for customers.
    • Cyprus – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery are allowed to enter. See details here. In addition, the country is following this traffic light system. Travelers from countries on the Orange list (like the U.S.) do not require a PCR test prior to arrival, as outlined here. Proof of vaccination also required to enter most indoor businesses.
    • Czech Republic – Borders are open to nationals of all EU-associated countries, USA, and Serbia, provided travelers can provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test OR proof of full vaccination or recovery from COVID-19.
    • Denmark – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other Green/Yellow/Orange category countries can enter without testing or quarantine. There are additional paths in for non-vaccinated travelers. See detailed entry requirements. (Note: Captcha required to access site.)
    • Estonia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Fully-vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other safe countries can enter for any reason. Testing not required with vaccination.
    • Finland – As part of its phased reopening, Finland is easing restrictions since Jul 26 allowing some fully-vaccinated U.S. citizens to enter for essential business or if they have EU citizenship or a residence. Further easing allowing additional categories of vaccinated U.S. travelers is expected Aug 22.
    • France – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open for tourism to fully vaccinated non-EU citizens from countries not on the red list. U.S. and Canada sit on the Green List (least restrictive). Vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and Canada can enter France for any reason. Our blog article has the full details.
    • Germany – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: U.S. travelers are now allowed for tourism with either a negative test, proof of vaccine, or proof that the passenger had COVID and has recovered. Restrictions apply to travelers from virus-variant areas.
    • Greece – Open to U.S. travelers that are vaccinated OR those who have a negative PCR test result taken 72 hours before arrival. PLF form needs to be filled out at least 24 hours prior to arrival. Travel back and forth from the mainland to islands or vice versa requires PCR test or proof of vaccination. Effective Jul 16 – Aug 31, indoor dining will require proof of vaccine or negative COVID test. More local businesses are expected to require proof of vaccination for entry starting Sept 1. Our FBO ground support offices in Greece are ready to support you. Be sure to submit your parking requests ASAP for best options during Mediterranean summer peak season. Our Greek Islands destination guide has more details.
    • Hungary – U.S. persons can travel to Hungary for essential business. An invitation letter from the receiving party should be submitted in advance for approval. All U.S. passengers approved in for essential business don’t require COVID testing or quarantine.
    • Iceland – Open to travelers with proof of vaccination or recovery. Pre-arrival COVID test also required as of July 27. Full details online.
    • Ireland – Our Universal Aviation offices in Dublin and Shannon can assist.
      • Since July 19, fully-vaccinated travelers from the EU, UK, U.S., and other low risk countries are allowed to enter without testing or quarantine. See full details online.
      • Related to above, since July 19, Ireland is participating in the EU’s Digital Green Pass Program, allowing pass holders with proof of vaccination, recovery, or recent test result.
      • This pre-departure testing provider is available at EIDW for travelers headed to the U.S.
      • U.S. CBP Preclearance is open at Shannon/EINN for GA; however, hours have changed again. Read our blog for details and ops procedures.
      • Shannon has an onsite COVID testing program providing quick turnaround. Appointments are required and can be booked online at https://rocdochealthcheck.ie.
    • Italy – Open to U.S. and Canadian citizens for tourism. Must have one of the following: proof of vaccination, negative test, or proof of recovery. See our blog for details. Universal Aviation Italy is ready to support your missions.
    • Latvia – Open for leisure. Passengers who have been in the EU, EEA, Switzerland, UK, or U.S. for the past 14 days and have proof of vaccine approved by European Medicines Agency or WHO are exempt from pre-arrival Covid-19 testing and quarantine.
    • Macedonia – Open, health screening on arrival. Travelers arriving from India will have to quarantine for 14 days.
    • Malta – Since July 14, all previously amber countries (including the US) are moved to the red list which only allows travel by holders of a COVID-19 vaccination certificate recognized by the Malta Superintendent of Public Health, which is limited to 1) valid Maltese vaccination certificate, 2) a UK NHS Vaccination Letter, 3) EU Digital COVID vaccination certificate, or a U.S CDC certificate.
    • Moldova – Foreign citizens from most Red List countries (including the U.S.) are prohibited, with some exceptions.
    • Montenegro – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE: Open to U.S. citizens. Aircraft disinfection required.
    • Netherlands – The U.S. is on the Safe Countries/Regions List. Travelers from the U.S., regardless of their nationalities, are allowed to travel from the U.S. to the Netherlands without need for pre-arrival test or quarantine. Non-EU/Schengen passengers transiting from high-risk, hotspot countries are prohibited UFN.
    • Norway – Open to Green List EU countries without quarantine. We’re expecting to soon hear about plans for easing to the U.S. soon.
    • Poland – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE for countries on the allowed list only. Allowed travelers, including U.S. citizens, with an EU-approved vaccine OR proof of recovery are exempt from quarantine. U.S. traveler entering with only a proof of negative test result will need to quarantine. The updated flight ban list can be found online.
    • Portugal – Officially open to tourism, including U.S./Canadian travelers. A negative COVID test on arrival is required. Travelers from the UK require proof of vaccination or quarantine for 14 days.
    • Russia – Allowing international travelers from a number of countries, including the U.S. Pre-arrival PCR test required. Canadians are still prohibited.
    • Serbia – U.S. citizens can enter for business or tourism. No quarantine required. Fully vaccinated travelers from some EU countries are exempt from providing negative COVID-19 test results for entry.
    • Slovak Republic – PCR test and quarantine required for entry. Immunized business travelers with acceptable reason for business can be exempted from quarantine. Travelers from the EU and Schengen region are not required to test or quarantine with proof of vaccine. Travelers from Green countries can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test at any time after arrival. Travelers from Red countries (including USA) can end their quarantine with a negative PCR test on the eighth day of quarantine.
    • Slovenia – VACCINE PASSPORT ACTIVE, but only for travelers from countries not on the red list. The U.S. has been moved to GREEN, allowing entry with proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative COVID test.
    • Spain – Open. Travelers from the United States, Canada and Mexico can enter Spain for any reason. Our blog article has all the details.
    • Sweden – Sweden – U.S. residents can enter the country directly. COVID test still required. More details here.
    • Switzerland – Open to U.S. travelers. Proof of vaccination, recovery, or negative test result required. Quarantine only required for visitors if they have been to any of these countries (note that U.S is NOT on this list) at any time within the last 14 days before entering Switzerland.
    • Turkey – Travelers from high-risk countries (none of which are EU, UK, US, or Canada) must quarantine. Immunized U.S. travelers do not require a pre-arrival COVID test. Other than the high-risk countries above, Turkey remains open on the Mediterranean to Private/Business flights (including leisure) regardless the country of registration and/or nationality of passenger. Our Universal Aviation office in Turkey can provide assistance.
    • Ukraine – Open. Travelers who have completed the vaccine process are exempt from presenting a negative Covid-19 test on arrival. Medical insurance and tracer app required. Aircraft disinfection required. Read more online.
    • UK – Accessible. See section below for more details.
  • UK –
    • The quarantine requirement for fully vaccinated travellers from the EU and the US when arriving in England from an amber list country officially expires Aug. 2, 2021. Visitors, however, are still required to complete a pre-departure test before arriving in England alongside a PCR test on or before day two after they have landed.
      • France remains restricted: We are awaiting updated written guidance later today or tomorrow but at present, travellers from France will still be required to isolate and note that the Green list is set to be updated next week.
    • The UK may soon begin to require COVID passes for entry to night clubs and indoor venues. Nothing official yet.
    • There is a quarantine exemption for senior executives who are likely to bring significant economic benefit to the country.
    • Jail time – The UK is imposing jail time of up to 10 years for travelers who lie about their travel history.
    • UK entry requirements – Travelers must follow the UK’s Red, Amber, and Green list rules for entering the UK.
      • Travelers from Green List countries don’t require quarantine. The U.S., Canada, and most EU countries currently sit on the Amber List, which mean a 10-day quarantine for travelers arriving from these countries, unless you pay to test out early on day 5.
      • Arrivals from Amber List countries, except UK residents, must take COVID-19 tests on the second and eighth days of their quarantine period, as do permitted arrivals from Red List countries.
      • Crew on international arrivals will need to take (and retake) LFD tests for stays of more than 2 days to avoid quarantine, if it applies based on departure country. Read details online.
    • Luton’s Night Slot Ban (June 1 – Sept. 30) – London’s Luton Airport announced a new Night Slot Ban is taking effect June 1 through Sept. 30, between the hours of 2200Z to 0600Z. London-Stansted Airport will be the preferred alternative. Read full details on our blog.
    • RAF Northolt Airport in London has extended its M-F operating hours by three hours to 0800-2000L. This is a big deal because as the closest GA-accessible to central London, as well as the closest airport to Heathrow, these longer hours make it a much better option for international operators. Universal Aviation Northolt worked hard to make this happen.
    • Don’t miss your UK-APD payments – Passenger flights out of the UK are subject to Air Passenger Duty (UK-APD) payments, and many operators forget to pay these within the 7-day deadline. Since we have a local office, we can monitor and manage any payments owed on your behalf. Just send a request to our Global Regulatory Team to get started. It’s a fast and easy setup process.
    • A new emissions reporting scheme now applies as a result of Brexit – UK-ETS. If you need help with your UK-ETS monitoring and reporting, we can make this easy for you. Contact our Global Regulatory team directly.

Updated Thursday, July 22, 2021, 6:00 PM EST

United States

Travelers from outbreak & variant virus hotspots – Many countries are restricting entry for travelers who have visited an outbreak and/or variant virus hotspot, including Brazil, India, and South Africa. Travelers from neighboring countries may also be restricted.

  • U.S. – Land border extension to Aug 21.
    • On Jan. 12, 2021, the U.S. CDC issued an order requiring proof of a negative viral COVID-19 test (NAAT/PCR or antigen), or medical proof of recovery, for anyone arriving from a foreign country to the U.S. The order went into effect Jan. 26, 2021 for ALL flights, including private flight and GA aircraft. Key points:
      • Only ACTIVE crew members are EXEMPT. You can find the full definition of ACTIVE CREW and some analysis on the various exemption scenarios that we’ve been asked about on our website.
      • Passengers must show aircraft operator proof of negative result, taken with 3 days of boarding, or of recovery prior to boarding.
      • U.S. CDC Approves Home Test for Int’l Arrivals – On May 7, the CDC updated its Order to allow self-administered COVID tests (aka home tests) to qualify for int’l arrivals to the U.S. Note that the CDC has guidance on what home tests will be allowed.
      • Operators of private flights and general aviation must maintain passenger