u.s. travel ban update today for india

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US restricts travel from India from May 4; some exemptions allowed

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MORE: How to help India amid COVID-19 surge that's devastating the country

More aid was being sent Friday from Travis Air Force Base in California, and on another flight departing from Dulles International Airport outside Washington Friday evening.

State Department spokesman Ned Price called for the private sector to support the U.S. government's new efforts and said America's goal is only to see aid "put to immediate and effective use," but declined to weigh in on how it should be distributed.

MORE: US deploying vaccine materials, PPE to India amid COVID crisis

"Our assistance, we hope, will have a catalytic effect on society more broadly, here and around the world, to come to the aid of the Indian people," Price said Thursday.

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Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said in a tweet Friday that he had spoken with Secretary of State Antony Blinken about what Indians needed to address the pandemic. Jaishankar said India appreciates the "forthcoming response of the US in this regard."

MORE: India sees 'alarming rate of growth of COVID-19 cases and deaths,' officials say

PHOTO: An U.S Air Force aircraft carrying COVID-19 relief supplies is seen on the tarmac after landing at the Indira Gandhi International Airport cargo terminal in New Delhi on April 30, 2021.

The U.S. also is deploying a strike team of public health experts, senior administration officials detailed Monday, to help Indian officials respond to the pandemic. On Wednesday, CDC director Rochelle Walensky said that the crisis in India is "horrifying."

"CDC has had a very close relationship with infectious disease experts in the Ministry of Health and deploying a strike team this week to go and assist," Walensky said.

Psaki also said during a gaggle Friday that the U.S. will "continue to communicate with India about its needs.

MORE: Biden calls India's Modi, pledging assistance amid dire coronavirus outbreak

PHOTO: Ground staff unload COVID-19 relief supplies from the U.S. at the Indira Gandhi International Airport cargo terminal in New Delhi on April 30, 2021.

In addition to providing aid, the State Department has approved the voluntary departure of families of U.S diplomatic staff from India. The order is not mandatory, but families can depart on commercial flights. The order could be elevated if the situation grows worse.

The large U.S. diplomatic presence, with five consulates and one embassy, has been affected. One source told ABC News three locally-employed staff members have died in recent weeks.

ABC News' Cheyenne Haslett, Benjamin Siegel and Christine Theodorou contributed to this report.

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Biden to restrict travel from India amid coronavirus surge

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden will restrict travel from India starting Tuesday on the advice of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as India battles a deadly second wave of coronavirus infections .

The policy will not apply to American citizens, lawful permanent residents or other exempted individuals, according to a White House official. People in those categories will still have to test negative prior to travel, quarantine if unvaccinated and retest as negative upon entering the U.S., as is required for all international travelers.

"The policy will be implemented in light of extraordinarily high COVID-19 caseloads and multiple variants circulating in the India," White House press secretary Jen Psaki said in a statement.

The United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, France and New Zealand, among other countries, have imposed similar travel restrictions on India in recent days.

The new travel restrictions underscore the challenges of tackling the coronavirus pandemic on a global scale , even as progress has been made in the United States.

India surpassed 200,000 Covid-19 deaths this week, becoming only the fourth country to do so, with some experts warning that the death toll is likely higher than reported . Overall, India has recorded about 18 million cases, second only to the United States with more than 32 million cases .

The surge in new infections has stretched India's hospitals to the breaking point, leading to a shortage in oxygen, hospital beds and other critical supplies.

Vice President Kamala Harris touched upon the restrictions in comments to reporters Friday afternoon.

"As it relates to the people of India, we have a long-standing, decades-old relationship with India, particularly when it comes to public health issues," Harris said, adding that she had not spoken to her extended family in India since the restrictions were announced.

Although India is one of the world’s largest vaccine producers, the country has struggled to procure enough to inoculate its population of nearly 1.4 billion people. Experts have warned that while the U.S. and other wealthy countries race ahead in their vaccination rollouts, global vaccine inequality could prolong the pandemic for everyone as virus variants mutate and could be more infectious and evade Western vaccines.

Biden spoke to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, and administration officials said they are sending a range of supplies to the country, including oxygen equipment, raw materials used in vaccine production, rapid testing kits and the treatment remdesivir.

Psaki said two U.S. military flights arrived in India on Friday carrying oxygen cylinders, rapid diagnostic tests, N95 masks and other supplies. Harris told reporters she hoped the supplies would "provide some level of relief."

In January, Biden reinstated similar travel restrictions on most non-U.S. travelers from Brazil, Ireland, the United Kingdom and 26 other European countries that allow travel across open borders and issued new restrictions on travel from South Africa.

Lauren Egan is a White House reporter for NBC News based in Washington.

Kristen Welker is the moderator of "Meet the Press."

Biden bans most travel to U.S. from India to limit COVID-19 spread

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When will US lift travel restrictions for Indians? US Embassy official Don Heflin answers

In an exclusive interview to hindustan times' aditi prasad, minister-counsellor for consular affairs in us embassy new delhi, don heflin, gave a clear picture of when the united states can lift travel restrictions for india, whether indian students will need a second vaccination after reaching the united states etc..

With the new academic session starting in US schools and colleges in August, it is time for the last-minute scramble for Indian students as the situation has become more challenging owing to issues regarding travel restriction, Covid-19 vaccinations etc. In an exclusive interview to Hindustan Times' Aditi Prasad , minister-counsellor for consular affairs in US Embassy New Delhi, Don Heflin, gave a clear picture of when the United States can lift travel restrictions for India, whether Indian students will need a second vaccination after reaching the United States etc.

US Embassy will increase the number of visa appointments in July to facilitate students who got admission in US colleges for the upcoming academic session.

On travel restrictions

At present, no one can travel from India to the United States if they have been in India in the last 14 days. There are exceptions for American citizens, students and those who can prove their travel to the US as of national interest. "It is hard to predict when the travel restrictions will be lifted. But one signal for India will be to look for the lifting of the restriction from Europe's Schengen area, which was placed under travel curbs before India. Once those countries come out of restrictions, India can expect to see the lifting of the US travel ban," Don Heflin said. The Schengen area comprises 26 European countries including France, Germany, Italy, Denmark etc.

Watch: HT's Aditi Prasad speaks to Don Heflin on India-US travel, visa restrictions

Not getting visa appointments?

Don Heflin said that the embassy is working towards increasing the number of visa appointments and more will be opened in July. But how will the July visa appointment help if the classes start in August? "There is no need to panic. Schools will let you come late. Try to reach by August 25. If that is not possible for any reason, then contact the department concerned," Heflin said. The second wave of the pandemic in India delayed the appointment process in India, but the embassy has already opened 45,000 visa appointments and is aiming to achieve the pre-covid number of visa appointments.

Also Read: US travel ban strategy doesn’t make sense, ex-FDA chief says

Will you get vaccinated again if you have got Covaxin in India?

As Bharat Biotech's Covaxin is yet to receive a nod from the World Health Organization, this question has been raised. The minister-councillor said the United States, as yet, has no vaccine requirement. It only requires an RT-PCR test report but schools, universities are following their own guidelines regarding vaccination. "When you come for a visa interview, we won't ask you whether you are vaccinated. Airlines won't ask you whether you are vaccinated. immigrant officials won't probably ask you about this either," Heflin said adding that vaccines are widely available in the US. But the single-point guideline will be to check with the college and also the CDC website, Heflin said.

Here are some additional specific questions regarding US travel and visa requirements

Can a green card-holding Legal Permanent Resident maintain their status and travel to the United States if they have been in India for more than one year due to Covid restrictions? What steps should they take?

A permanent resident (called lawful permanent resident or LPR) must return to the United States within one year of departure to maintain permanent resident status. There is currently no change to the requirement that LPR(s) maintain their status. We encourage you to review the information on our website for additional detail and application instructions for a re-entry permit or returning resident visa.

Can individuals in the United States with valid F-1 visas and approval for Optional Practical Training status travel to India, then return to the United States in a timely manner? What should they do to prepare for their travel?

Given the current demand for visa appointments and COVID-19 related restrictions, we cannot guarantee a student’s timely return to the United States following short-term travel to India. Students with valid F-1 or M-1 visas, including those with active OPT approval, who are resuming their programs in the United States on or after August 1, 2021, do not require a National Interest Exception (NIE) before travelling to the United States from India within 30 days of their programme resumption date.

How have the US Embassy and consulates in India been impacted by Covid-19? If you are only processing visas for emergency cases, how do you prevent this from negatively affecting Indians aspiring to work in the United States?

The Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns in India have caused delays in visa processing. The embassy and consulates resumed processing visas, focusing first on returning workers and now students, as soon as conditions allowed. Please note that H-1B workers in India who hold valid visas may be eligible for a National Interest Exception (NIE) from Presidential Proclamation 10199. To date, we have processed thousands of NIEs for qualified returning workers.

Are H-4 minors with lapsed visas eligible for interview waiver processing if their H-1B parent is currently in the United States and their H-4 parent holds a valid visa?

Yes. We resumed limited interview waiver processing for certain categories of visas, including H-4s. There are some H-4 visa holders who plan to attend school in the United States on F-1 visas.

Is there a provision for these individuals to change their status and prepare for study without travelling to India for the visa interview?

We encourage you to contact US Citizenship and Immigration Services for information regarding the planned change of status within the United States.

Are F-2 derivative relatives of F-1 students currently in the United States permitted to travel to join them? What timing and National Interest Exemption waivers should they bear in mind?

F-2 visa holders must be approved for a National Interest Exception prior to travel to the United States; the blanket waiver for F1 students does not apply to F2 derivatives. Please refer to our website for information on the National Interest Exemption process: https://in.usembassy.gov/visas/national-interest-exception-frequently-asked-questions/

How does the visa and travel process differ for F-1 PhD students or others with independent or flexible programs without a set start date? Are there limitations in travel dates? Is a National Interest Exemption required?

Students who are starting new programs should refer to their I-20 for their official “program start date”. Students with valid F-1 visas and active SEVIS status can enter the United States up to 30 days prior to a program resumption date that is August 1 or later. You should work with your school to confirm your specific resumption date.

Do fully vaccinated students need to quarantine in the United States?

Please consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for the latest information on quarantine requirements upon US entry. According to current guidance, fully vaccinated individuals do not need to self-isolate upon entry.

Hindustan Times received many queries regarding the US travel and visa restrictions from its readers/viewers including from Smriti Sharma, Avi Seth, Asha Khatri, Shiven Panya, Shweta Chhajed, Rashmi Bogapur, Dr R Jeevakumar, Haseena Begum, Maneshker Mathivanam, Ved Garg, Shashwat Kumar, Sandeep, Geetha Sundar, Ashwin Kumar, Sravanthi Kuthuru, Pradeep Kumar, Ankit Hatalkar, Rishi Kesh among others.

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Travel ban will end Nov. 8 for international visitors who show proof of vaccination, negative coronavirus test

Children under 18 do not have to show proof of vaccination but will be required to show proof of a negative test.

Vaccination will not be required for children under age 18 to travel to the United States once officials lift a ban on international visitors, but they will have to show proof of a negative coronavirus test before boarding a flight, according to rules outlined Monday by the Biden administration.

With about two weeks to go before the United States lifts a travel ban on visitors from 33 countries, federal health officials offered more specifics for travelers and airlines before restrictions are lifted Nov. 8. Although vaccination won’t be required for children, most non-U.S. citizens and nonimmigrants arriving by air will have to show both proof of vaccination and proof of a negative coronavirus test taken within three days of departure.

“With science and public health as our guide, the United States has developed a new international air travel system that both enhances the safety of Americans here at home and enhances the safety of international air travel,” the White House said in a statement.

Federal health officials said the exception was made for children because many do not have access to or are not yet eligible for the vaccines. However, children must still be tested before traveling to the United States. Those traveling with vaccinated adults must be tested within the previous three days, while those traveling with unvaccinated adults or who are traveling alone must show proof of a negative test taken one day before their flight.

The new rules don’t require U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents to be vaccinated but do outline different testing requirements depending on their vaccine status. Those who have been vaccinated must show proof of a negative test taken within of their departure. Those who are unvaccinated must show proof of a test taken one day before their departure.

It will be up to airlines to verify a person’s vaccination and testing status, officials said. Many airlines already have systems that allow travelers to upload proof of a negative test and vaccine status. In addition, international visitors will have to provide information for how they can be reached in the United States for contact-tracing efforts.

“These are strict safety protocols that follow the science and public health to advance the safety of Americans here at home and the safety of international air travel,” a senior White House official said in a briefing with reporters.

The Biden administration announced in September that it was replacing the travel ban on international visitors with a system that would rely on vaccination, testing and contact tracing for visitors wishing to come to the United States.

[ U.S. announces end to travel ban on international visitors ]

The announcement was welcomed by the travel industry, which has been pushing the government for more than a year to lift the travel ban on travelers from 33 countries. With the ban in place, industry representatives feared the United States was losing ground to Europe, which began to ease travel restrictions for Americans this summer. Canada opened its borders on Aug. 9 to visitors from the United States who had been vaccinated.

Kevin M. Burke, president of Airports Council International-North America, said the new protocols will help the nation safely and securely reopen its borders.

“We appreciate the Biden administration’s commitment to working with industry on these complex challenges and we look forward to our ongoing work as the November 8 reopen date nears,” he said in a statement.

Since the announcement in September, the administration has slowly been laying the groundwork for lifting the ban. That included the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention deciding which vaccines would be accepted, specifying that travelers must have received those with full or emergency approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or the World Health Organization.

[ Fully vaccinated travelers can come to the U.S. even if their doses are mixed ]

In January, President Donald Trump announced a plan to end the travel ban, saying it was unnecessary because of his administration’s policy that required international travelers to provide proof of a negative test before boarding U.S.-bound flights. But within days of taking office, the Biden administration reinstated the ban and added South Africa, and later India, to the list, citing the need to control the spread of coronavirus variants.

In June, the White House formed working groups to help determine when to lift rules that banned international visitors from certain countries.

Under the restrictions, most foreign nationals who have been in the United Kingdom, several European Union countries, Brazil or China in the previous 14 days are not permitted to enter the United States. India was added to the list in May.

The White House also announced this month it was easing pandemic-related restrictions on overland border crossings from Canada and Mexico. Officials said Monday they would release additional information about requirements that people coming to the United States via land borders must follow.

The updated policy offers limited exceptions for individuals enrolled in certain coronavirus vaccine clinical trials and those who shouldn’t get vaccinated for medical reasons. Those who need to travel for emergency or humanitarian reasons and have a letter issued by the U.S. government verifying their need to travel also may be exempted.

In addition, those with non-tourist visas coming to the United States from countries where there is low vaccine availability as determined by the CDC may be allowed to travel to the United States. Those who receive exemptions but intend to stay for more than 60 days may be required to get vaccinated once in the United States.

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Immigration

The human cost of Biden’s travel ban on India

“I can’t grieve for my nation because I am still just trying to sort my own life out.”

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A visitor wearing a sari sits on a bed beside a patient receiving oxygen at a hospital in India.

For the more than 2.7 million Indian immigrants who have put down roots in the US, President Joe Biden’s decision to ban most travel from their home country as its health system collapses under a surge of coronavirus cases has come at a price.

The ban, which went into effect on May 4, is similar to those imposed on travelers from other countries, including China and the UK. But Indians who have lived in the US for years told Vox that, as a result of the ban and visa processing delays, they have been stranded abroad, barred from bringing their family over, and unable to travel to India, even to care for or grieve for their parents, fearing that they will not be able to return. (Names have been changed to protect their immigration cases.)

There are narrow exemptions for American citizens and green card holders, their spouses, minor children or siblings, and the parents of citizens or green card holders who are under the age of 21. But people who don’t fall into those categories are essentially barred from traveling.

The justifications for such a ban have been debated. It is intended to protect the US from Covid-19 variants spreading in India and the country’s extraordinarily high caseloads. But it’s not clear how effective it will be, given that the travel ban does include exemptions and that the US does not have a robust system for quarantining upon entry.

“President Biden has promised to take every measure necessary to keep Americans safe and defeat the pandemic, and this was a step recommended by the medical experts, the COVID-19 Response Team, and National Security personnel across the US Government,” a White House official said in an email, speaking on the condition of anonymity.

For the US’s large Indian American community, it has effectively cut them off from family members back home who need their support more than ever. For some, it has also jeopardized their immigration status and prevented them from returning to the US, which they now consider home.

It’s another layer of complication on top of what was already a dysfunctional process of immigrating to the US for Indians, who often have to wait years if not decades for green cards.

“We are stuck with a broken process for people who have been completely legal from day one,” Rahul, a US citizen who grew up in Delhi, said. “It’s not a new story.”

Indian Americans have not been able to bring their family members to the US

Green card holders and US citizens still have the right to travel back and forth from India. But the process of bringing their family members to the US has been exceedingly difficult for months. Now that Biden has enacted a travel ban, Indians who had applied for visas and green cards will have to wait even longer.

For Rahul, who is now living in Seattle, that delay means that he likely won’t be able to see his ailing mother one last time. He has been trying to bring her and his father over from India since 2018, when he became a US citizen and was able to begin the lengthy process of applying for their green cards.

Their applications were held up by pandemic-related visa restrictions enacted by the Trump administration, which prevented parents of US citizens from joining their children in the US, as well as backlogs caused by the pandemic. Biden lifted those restrictions , but now that he has imposed a travel ban on India, their applications are not likely to be approved in the near future.

His mother’s application has passed the initial stage of screening, but there hasn’t been any movement on his father’s case for a year. Had their applications been approved, Rahul might have been able to bring them to the US before India’s second wave of Covid-19 hit. But his parents are now stuck in the middle of the world’s worst outbreak, with cases topping 23 million , round-the-clock mass cremations , and hospitals running out of oxygen, open ICU beds, and basic supplies.

After following US immigration laws and paying taxes for more than a decade, he feels let down by his adopted country and has even entertained the idea of leaving.

“Sometimes I just scratch my head. What’s the advantage of following the legal process? Might as well just cross the border and jump over,” Rahul said. “Had I been able to bring my parents here, things would have been very different. Now, they’re fighting for their lives.”

His father fell ill with the virus, but was able to recover, even at age 74. His mother, on the other hand, has been on a ventilator and under intensive care in the hospital. From afar, Rahul hasn’t been able to get through to the overwhelmed hospital staff to get updates on her condition. But he has been sending money to his family to pay for her medical care, as well as arranging grocery deliveries for his father, who has mobility issues.

Though he could travel back and forth between the US and India as a dual citizen, Rahul made the difficult decision not to get on a plane and see his mother. His father warned him against risking his own well-being in coming to India given that he has two young children at home who depend on him.

The decision is tearing him apart. He said he hasn’t been able to sleep, eat, or work for the past few weeks, and his children haven’t had his attention.

“It’s excessive, being torn between my own kids and my parents,” he said. “I’m here with such a tough decision that I might not see them ever again. I hope nobody else has to face it.”

Indians on temporary visas are stranded abroad

While green card holders and US citizens are still allowed to travel from India to the US, many Indians with temporary visas, including H-1B visas for high-skilled workers, have been stranded abroad due to the travel ban. Now they have no idea when they will be able to return, which, in some cases, has jeopardized their employment and immigration status.

Denisha is an H-1B visa holder who arrived in the US a decade ago and has since settled in Boston. She was forced to return to Mumbai after her application to renew her visa, which expires after six years, was caught up in processing delays amid the pandemic. She needs an official at the US Consulate to stamp her visa in order for her to return, but that won’t happen for the foreseeable future due to the travel ban.

“It’s been a bureaucratic hell just making it through the immigration machine,” she said. “And this is coming from someone who’s trying to do everything right. I’m still at the risk of losing everything.”

Denisha is now paying for two apartments: one in Mumbai in the same apartment complex as her parents, and the other in Boston. She has been working remotely, still keeping East Coast hours and often working till 1 am. But her employer told her that if she isn’t able to come back to the US by mid-July, she will lose her job, and since her immigration status is tied to her job, she will lose her visa, too.

“I came to Mumbai with two suitcases,” she said. “Everything is in Boston. I have an apartment with all my belongings. I have a car that I just purchased a year and a half ago. I have loans. I have rent. If I lose this job, there’s no way for me to go back and I don’t know what to do with all of that. I am cut off from my life.”

As a queer woman who hasn’t come out to her father, she also fears having to remain in India, which only decriminalized gay sex in 2018. Most people disapprove of same-sex marriage, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has actively campaigned against legalizing it . For those reasons, she views her chosen family, the community she has created in Boston, as her true family.

“I left because I’m a queer woman. I can’t live in India. It’s illegal for me to just be who I am here, so it’s impossible for me to continue living here and it’s impossible for me to get back,” she said. “There’s a no acceptance even for straight couples who are from different castes. There is a constant fear of persecution.”

Given the status of the Covid-19 crisis in India, it’s not clear whether Biden will lift the ban in time for her to keep her job. There is a lawsuit in DC federal court challenging the “ total, inescapable ban ” on temporary visa holders from India, as well as China, the Schengen Area, the UK and Ireland, Brazil, and South Africa. But it’s not clear whether the judgment in the case will come soon enough for Denisha.

“I can’t grieve for my nation because I am still just trying to sort my own life out. I don’t have the brain space for it,” Denisha said.

Some have been forced to grieve from afar

Pandemic-related visa processing delays and the travel ban have prevented Indians from being able to grieve with their family back home.

Anna came to the US about 15 years ago from Chennai, India, and after getting her PhD, she went on to work for a tech company in Seattle on an H-1B visa. She and her husband have since applied to become permanent residents, but they are facing a years-long wait before they are issued green cards due to lengthy backlogs.

Her father died suddenly of Covid-19 in October. He had chronic kidney disease, which put him at a higher risk of complications from virus. But after seeking medical care, he had initially appeared to be recovering and was discharged from the hospital without needing a ventilator. Once he arrived home, however, his condition quickly deteriorated.

Anna wanted to go back to India immediately to join her mother and brothers in mourning. But because her H-1B visa had expired and US consulates in India were not processing visa renewals, she had no guarantee that she would be able to return once she left the country.

Instead, she sought emergency permission to travel to India on the basis of her pending green card application. But at an appointment with an immigration officer in the US several months later, her petition was rejected.

“The officer essentially said, ‘Your father passed away in October. It’s not not really an emergency anymore,’” she said. “I honestly just started crying in front of the immigration officer.”

She tried to compensate by calling her family in India more often. But it wasn’t a substitute for being there in person, which she hopes will be a possibility later this year.

“It’s been about seven months, and I really want to just give my mom a hug,” she said. “The thing that was most painful for me was not being able to travel in that first month or so right after he passed because that’s when I really wanted to be there for them, for the family. ... I’ve learned to cherish the family I have.”

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Places the U.S. Government Warns Not to Travel Right Now

You may want to reconsider traveling to these countries right now.

Do Not Travel to These Countries

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Crime, civil unrest and terrorism are common risk factors for countries that end up on the State Department's "Do Not Travel" advisory list.

In 2024, tourism across the globe is “well on track” to return to pre-pandemic levels, according to projections by UN Tourism.

Global conflicts and natural disasters , ranging from a series of coups across Africa to catastrophic earthquakes in the Middle East affected international travel patterns throughout 2023. Still, international tourist arrivals reached 87% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023, according to estimates by UN Tourism .

In January 2024 alone, about 4.6 million U.S. citizens left the country for international destinations, 17% higher than the same month in 2019, according to the International Trade Administration . But some destinations warrant more caution than others.

On Oct. 19, 2023, following the outbreak of war between Israel and Gaza and flaring tensions in the region, the U.S. State Department issued a worldwide caution advisory due to “increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests.” Prior to this update, the most recent worldwide caution advisory was issued in 2022 after a U.S. strike killed Ayman al-Zawahiri, Osama bin Laden’s successor as leader of Al Qaeda, causing “a higher potential for anti-American violence.” The worldwide caution advisory remains in effect.

The U.S. State Department also issues individual travel advisory levels for more than 200 countries globally, continually updating them based on a variety of risk indicators such as health, terrorism and civil unrest. Travel advisory levels range from Level 1, which means exercise normal precautions, to Level 4, which means do not travel there.

About 10% of countries – 19 total – have a Level 4: “Do Not Travel” advisory as of Mar. 4. In Level 4 countries, the U.S. government may have “very limited ability” to step in should travelers’ safety or security be at risk, according to the State Department. Crime, civil unrest, kidnapping and terrorism are common risk factors associated with Level 4 countries.

So far in 2024, the State Department made changes to the existing Level 4 advisories for Myanmar, Iran and Gaza, and moved Niger and Lebanon off of the Level 4 list.

Places With a Level 4 Travel Advisory

These are the primary areas the U.S. government says not to travel to right now, in alphabetical order:

Jump to Place: Afghanistan Belarus Burkina Faso Central African Republic Myanmar (formerly Burma) Gaza Haiti Iran Iraq Libya Mali Mexico North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) Russia Somalia South Sudan Sudan Syria Ukraine Venezuela Yemen

Afghanistan: The Central Asian country is wrestling with “terrorism, risk of wrongful detention, kidnapping and crime,” according to the State Department. U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for wrongful detention and kidnapping. In 2022, the government reinstituted public floggings and executions, and women’s rights are disappearing under Taliban control. The U.S. Embassy in Kabul halted operations in August 2021. Since the Taliban took control , many forms of international aid have been halted . Meanwhile, in 2023, some of the year’s deadliest earthquakes killed more than 2,400 in Afghanistan while the country continues to face a years-long extreme drought.

Belarus: Belarus, which shares a western border with Russia and a southern border with Ukraine, has been flagged for “Belarusian authorities’ continued facilitation of Russia’s war against Ukraine, the buildup of Russian military forces in Belarus, the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, the potential of civil unrest, the risk of detention, and the Embassy’s limited ability to assist U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Belarus.” The U.S. Embassy in Minsk halted operations in February 2022.

Burkina Faso: Terrorism, crime and kidnapping are plaguing this West African nation. Terrorist attacks may target hotels, restaurants and schools with little to no warning, and the East and Sahel regions of the country are under a state of emergency. In late November 2023, hundreds died in clashes between state security forces and rebels near the country’s border with Mali. In June, more than 2 million people in Burkina Faso were displaced due to “violence linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group.”

Central African Republic: While there have not been specific incidents of U.S. citizens targeted with violence or crime, violent crime and sudden closure of roads and borders is common. The advisory states that “Embassy Bangui’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens, crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping” is a factor in its assessment. Recent data from UNICEF suggests the country has the worst drinking water accessibility of all countries in 2022.

Myanmar (Formerly Burma): Armed conflict and civil unrest are the primary reasons to not travel to this Southeast Asian country, which experienced a military coup in early 2021. Limited health care resources, wrongful detentions and “areas with land mines and unexploded ordnance” are also listed as risk factors. After Ukraine and Israel, Myanmar had the highest conflict-related death toll in 2023.

Gaza : Hamas, a foreign terrorist organization as designated by the State Department, controls much of the Gaza Strip, which shares borders with both Israel and Egypt. On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas fighters broke across the border into Israel, killing hundreds of civilians and soldiers in a brazen attack that stunned Israelis. On Oct. 10, Israel hit the Gaza Strip with “the fiercest air strikes in its 75-year conflict” according to Reuters . The conflict has since escalated into war between Israel and Hamas, with regular Israeli airstrikes leading to extensive civilian casualties in Gaza. As of mid-December, nearly 85% of Gaza’s population were displaced from their homes, according to UN estimates . The region continues to face shortages of food , water, electricity and medical supplies , with conditions deemed “far beyond a humanitarian crisis.” The State Department warns of terrorism and armed conflict within Gaza’s borders.

Haiti: In July 2023, the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince in response to the increased risk of kidnapping and violent crime in the country , as well as armed conflict between gangs and police. The travel advisory states that cases of kidnapping “often involve ransom negotiations and U.S. citizen victims have been physically harmed during kidnappings.” The travel advisory also states that “U.S. citizens in Haiti should depart Haiti as soon as possible” given “the current security situation and infrastructure challenges.” A series of gang attacks in late September 2023 caused thousands to flee their homes, and many aid groups have been forced to cut or suspend operations amid escalating violence in recent months.

Iran: Terrorism, kidnapping and civil unrest are risk factors for all travelers to Iran, while U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for “arbitrary arrest.” U.S.-Iranian nationals such as students, journalists and business travelers have been arrested on charges of espionage and threatening national security. Executions in Iran rose sharply between 2021 and 2022, bringing the country’s total to nearly 580 people over the year, according to a report by Amnesty International released in May 2023.

Iraq: The State Department cites “terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict [and] civil unrest” as cause for the country’s Level 4 distinction. Iraq’s northern borders, and its border with Syria, are especially dangerous. Since the escalation of conflict in neighboring Israel in October, there has been an increase in attacks against Iraqi military bases, which host U.S. troops and other international forces. In October 2023, non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members were ordered to leave the U.S. embassy in Baghdad.

Libya: Following the end of its dictatorship over a decade ago, Libya has been wrought with internal conflict between armed groups in the East and West. Armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, kidnapping and terrorism are all risk factors. U.S. citizens have been targets of kidnapping for ransom, with terrorists targeting hotels and airports frequented by Westerners. The U.S. Embassy in Tripoli halted operations in 2014. In mid-September 2023, floods, which some say were intensified by climate change , killed thousands in eastern Libya. Clashes between armed factions escalated across the country in the latter half of 2023, including in the capital city of Tripoli and in Benghazi.

Mali: After experiencing military coups in 2020 and 2021, crime, terrorism and kidnapping are all prevalent threats in this West African landlocked nation. In July 2022, non-emergency U.S. government employees and their families were ordered to leave the country due to higher risk of terrorist activity. A U.N. report in August 2023 said that military groups in the country, including both Mali security forces and possibly Russian Wagner mercenaries, were spreading terror through the use of violence against women and human rights abuses. Democratic elections were supposed to occur in February 2024, but Mali’s military junta postponed the plans indefinitely. In December, the U.N. officially ended a decade-long peacekeeping presence in the country, which had been among the agency’s deadliest missions, with hundreds of the mission personnel killed since 2013.

Mexico: Each state in Mexico is assessed separately for travel advisory levels. Six of the 32 states in Mexico are designated as Level 4: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas. Crime and kidnapping are listed as the primary risk factors throughout the country. Nearly 112,000 people were missing across the country as of October, a number the U.N. has called “alarming.”

North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea): U.S. passports are not valid for travel “to, in, or through” this country, home to one of the world's longest-running dynastic dictatorships. The travel advisory states that the Level 4 distinction is due to “the continuing serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals.” In July 2023, a U.S. soldier fled across the border into North Korea, where he is believed to be in North Korean custody, the first American detained in the North in nearly five years. He was returned to U.S. custody in September 2023.

Russia: The travel advisory for Russia cites its invasion of Ukraine , harassment of U.S. citizens by Russian government officials and arbitrary law enforcement as a few of the reasons for the Level 4 designation. Chechnya and Mount Elbrus are specifically listed as Level 4 regions. Terrorism, civil unrest, health, kidnapping and wrongful detention are all noted as risks.

Russia Invades Ukraine: A Timeline

TOPSHOT - Black smoke rises from a military airport in Chuguyev near Kharkiv on February 24, 2022. - Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a military operation in Ukraine today with explosions heard soon after across the country and its foreign minister warning a "full-scale invasion" was underway. (Photo by Aris Messinis / AFP) (Photo by ARIS MESSINIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Somalia: A severe drought resulting from five failed rainy seasons in a row killed 43,000 people in 2022, and caused a famine amid conflict with Islamist insurgents . Violent crime is common throughout Somalia , pirates frequent its coast off the Horn of Africa, and medical facilities, where they exist, have limited capacity. Crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health and kidnapping are all risk factors. In January 2024, some passengers aboard a U.N.-contracted helicopter were taken hostage by al-Shabaab militants after the vehicle crashed in central Somalia.

South Sudan: Crime, kidnapping and armed conflict are the primary risk factors for South Sudan, which separated from Sudan in 2011, making it the world’s newest country . Weapons are readily available, and travelers have been victims of sexual assault and armed robbery.

Sudan: The U.S. evacuated its embassy in Khartoum in April 2023, and the country closed its airspace due to the ongoing conflict in the country, only permitting humanitarian aid and evacuation efforts. Fighting has escalated in the region between two warring generals seeking to gain control after a military coup in 2021 ousted the country’s prime minister. Civil unrest is the primary risk factor for Africa’s third largest country by area. Crime, terrorism, kidnapping and armed conflict are also noted. The International Criminal Court began investigating alleged war crimes and violence against African ethnic groups in the country in 2023. Millions have fled their homes due to conflict, and the U.N. has said its efforts to provide aid have been hindered by a lack of support, safety and resources. As recently as December 2023, the United Nations warned of catastrophic famine , with millions of children at-risk for malnutrition .

Syria: The advisory states that “No part of Syria is safe from violence,” with terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict and risk of unjust detention all potential risk factors. U.S. citizens are often a target for kidnappings and detention. The U.S. Embassy in Damascus halted operations in 2012. Fighting in neighboring Israel has escalated since October, and the conflict has spilled over into Syria, where the U.S. has carried out air strikes following drone and rocket attacks against American troops in Syria and Iraq, triggered by the Israel-Hamas war.

Ukraine: Russian setbacks in their invasion of Ukraine buoyed hopes in Ukraine in 2023. However, Ukraine is a Level 4 country due to Russia’s invasion, with crime and civil unrest also noted as risk factors. The country’s forces shot down two Russian fighter jets on Christmas Eve 2023, in a move Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said “sets the right mood for the entire year ahead.”

Venezuela: Human rights abuses and lack of health care plague this South American nation, which has been in a political crisis since 2014. In 2019, diplomatic personnel were withdrawn from the U.S. Embassy in Caracas. Threats in the country include crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, wrongful detention and poor health infrastructure.

Yemen: Six of the nine risk factors defined by the State Department – terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, kidnapping, armed conflict and landmines – are all present in Yemen. Despite private companies offering tourist visits to the Yemeni island of Socotra, the U.S. government argues those arranging such visits “are putting tourists in danger.” Civil war and cholera are also both present throughout the country. The U.S. Embassy in Sanaa halted operations in 2015. The country has experienced a relative lull in the civil war fighting, but as peace negotiations have gotten traction, flare ups in the fighting have jeopardized progress. Most recently, the U.S. and U.K. have carried out a series of airstrikes in the country, targeting Iran-backed Houthi sites.

Other Countries to Watch

Since Jan. 1, the State Department has updated travel advisories for 17 different countries as well as for the West Bank and Gaza, adding information about specific regions or risk factors, or simply renewing an existing advisory. Travel advisory levels can change based on several factors in a nation, such as increased civil unrest, policies that affect human rights or higher risks of unlawful detention.

The State Department has given about 25 countries an assessment of Level 3, meaning it recommends people “reconsider travel” to those destinations.

On Oct. 14, one week after the deadly Hamas attack on Israel, Israel and the West Bank were both moved from Level 2 to Level 3, while Gaza remains at Level 4. The region’s travel advisory was updated in November to reflect travel restrictions for certain government employees who have not already left the area, and it was updated again on Jan. 3.

Following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in early October, the U.S. State Department raised Lebanon ’s travel advisory level from a Level 3 to a Level 4 level due to “the unpredictable security situation related to rocket, missile, and artillery exchanges” between Israel and Hezbollah or other militant groups. In December, the U.S. Embassy in Beirut returned to normal staffing and presence, and on Jan. 29, the country was moved back to Level 3. Crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping and unexploded landmines are listed as the country’s primary risk factors. However, the country’s borders with Syria and with Israel, as well as refugee settlements within Lebanon, are specifically noted as Level 4 regions.

China became a Level 3 country in late 2020, with an update in December 2022 citing “the surge in COVID-19 cases, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, and COVID-19-related restrictions” as the reason for the advisory. In June 2023, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) was moved from the Level 3 to the Level 2 list, but travelers are still advised to be cautious in the area due to “arbitrary enforcement of local laws.” Meanwhile, Macau remains at Level 3.

Following an attempted coup in August 2023, Niger was elevated to Level 4 in August and the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Niamey. In early January 2024, the overall risk level for the country was lowered back to Level 3. Despite the new classification, the State Department still asks non-emergency government personnel and eligible family members to depart the country.

In mid-December 2023 there was an explosion at Guinea’s main fuel depot which has since affected access to health care and basic goods and services. The country was subsequently designated a Level 3 nation after having previously been Level 2. Concerns about civil unrest, health, crime and fuel shortages impacting local infrastructure were listed as the primary risk factors contributing to the change.

Several Level 3 countries are among the worst countries for human trafficking, as designated by the State Department’s annual Trafficking in Persons Report . Level 3 countries on this list include Papua New Guinea, Guinea Bissau, China and Chad. There are also nine Level 4 countries designated as among the worst for human trafficking: Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran, Myanmar, North Korea, Russia, Syria, South Sudan and Venezuela.

Over 70 countries are currently at Level 2, meaning the State Department recommends travelers “exercise increased caution” when traveling to those destinations.

Botswana became the newest Level 2 country on Feb. 26 after having previously been Level 1, with crime noted as the primary risk factor.

France, which saw nationwide protests throughout 2023, has civil unrest and terrorism noted as risk factors for its Level 2 status, and Sweden’s Level 2 status is associated with risks of terrorism.

The Level 2 travel advisory for the Bahamas was updated in January to reflect water safety concerns. The advisory warns that “activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated” and notes that government personnel are “not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.” It also warns visitors to be mindful of sharks, weather and water conditions. The advisory also says that crime is a primary risk factor with gang-on-gang violence contributing to high homicide rates in some areas. Visitors are asked to “be vigilant” and to not physically resist robbery attempts.

Bangladesh 's Level 2 travel advisory was updated in October 2023 to add a note about the country’s general election , which took place Jan. 7, 2024. The advisory states “demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.” The U.S. has since claimed the country’s election was not free nor fair.

In November 2023, several Level 2 travel advisories were updated with new cautionary information. The advisory for Ghana was updated to reflect threats against LGBTQI+ travelers specifically, noting “anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric and violence have increased in recent years.” Meanwhile, the advisory for South Africa was updated in February to note that routes recommended by GPS may be unsafe with higher risk for crime.

Turkmenistan was moved off of the Level 2 list to become the newest addition to the Level 1 list on Jan. 22, meaning normal precautions are recommended but there are no risk factors causing travelers to practice increased caution.

The State Department asks travelers to pay attention to travel advisory levels and alerts , review country information pages for their destinations and read related country security reports before going abroad.

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Tags: Russia , Ukraine , Travel , Coronavirus , Travel Tips , Israel , Gaza , violence , Civil War , crime , kidnapping

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US Travel ban to be lifted - vaccination negative test news updates

US Travel Requirements: No need for a Negative COVID Test

As many of you know, since the start of the COVID pandemic there were few travel bans put up by the US that are applicable for 33 countries that include EU Schengen Area, UK, Ireland, South Africa, India, China, Iran, and Brazil. The most recent one was by Biden on April 30th, 2021 that banned Travelers from India due to a surge in COVID cases in India.

Biden signed a Proclamation on October 26th, 2021 that lifts the travel ban and introduces vaccination requirements for anyone traveling to the US from Nov 8th, 2021. In this article, we will summarize the official information and latest news on the same. We will continue to update this article with the latest news

No Need for Negative COVID Test for Travel to the US

J une 10th, 2022: Earlier today, Biden Administration indicated that they are planning to drop the COVID Testing requirements for international Passengers arriving in the US starting from Sunday. CDC confirmed the same and made the announcement at around 8 PM EST on their website. Below are the details

As per CDC, there is no mandatory COVID Testing requirement for international travelers arriving in the US starting from Sunday, June 12th, 12:01 AM EST.
The change in COVID testing requirement is applicable to anyone arriving in the US via Flight ( Air Travelers). There are no testing requirements for land border crossing for some time.
CDC will re-assess this decision in 90 days and then take any required action of re-instating the same.
There is no change in the vaccination requirements. Travelers need to be fully vaccinated to enter the US with FDA or WHO-approved vaccines.
Also, CDC announced the cancellation of the previous order that required passengers arriving in the US to have a negative pre-departure COVID Test.
CDC Official Announcement: Removal of COVID Test Requirement
Official Cancellation Order: Document regarding Removal of Testing Requirement
CDC Page – International Travelers Testing Requirements

CDC Update - No need of Negative COVID Test for International Travelers

US Travel Ban lifted from Nov 8th, 2021, Travel Requirements

Below is the summary of the official guidelines and news related to the lifting of the travel ban to the US. It is a summary based on the official announcements made by the US Dept of State and CDC.

US Travel Ban lifted from Nov 8th, Vaccination Requirements

President Biden signed a Proclamation on Oct 25th, 2021 that lifted the travel ban on Nov 8th and added vaccination requirements for all travelers entering the US. The previous negative COVID test requirements will continue to be in place for international travelers to the US. Travelers need to submit proof of vaccination and negative COVID test results in order to enter the US at the port of entry .

The proof of vaccination and negative COVID test, which was taken within 3 days from the travel date, has to be shown before boarding the flight to the US. All air travelers to the US ages 2 years and above regardless of their citizenship or vaccination status, must have the negative COVID-19 test. Below is the screenshot of the official press release as per the US Dept of State.

Requirements to Travel to US after Nov 8, 2021

List of Vaccines Accepted for Travel to US, CDC guidelines

US Dept of State in their press releases and FAQs said that that they would accept US Food and Drug Administration(FDA) approved vaccines or the list of vaccines that are approved for emergency use by the World Health Organization(WHO). They suggest checking the Center for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) on the list of vaccines. See below screenshot on guidance on vaccines accepted by US Dept of State guidance

What COVID Vaccines will be accepted for Travel to US

As per CDC website, below are the list of approved vaccines and you have to meet the 2 weeks timeline as well after getting the second shot to be considered fully vaccinated :

Pfizer Biontech — FDA Approved
Moderna — FDA Approved
Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) — FDA Approved
AstraZeneca — WHO Approved
Covishield — WHO Approved
Covaxin – WHO Approved
Sinovac — WHO Approved
BIBP/ Sinopharm — WHO Approved
Check the below screenshot from Official CDC Website that shows fully vaccinated definition.
Also check Official Current Full list of WHO Approved vaccines

For the latest info, check the article on List of COVID Vaccines Accepted by US for Travel

Below is the actual screenshot of the list of vaccines that are accepted for US Travel as per Official CDC website

Accepted List of COVID 19 Vaccines for US Travelers after Travel Ban

CDC would require Airlines to collect contact Information

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) would require the Airlines operating flights to the US to collect the contact information that includes phone numbers and email addresses of all individuals traveling to the US. This data would primarily be used for help with contact tracing.

Face Masks Required on Public Transport and Transporation Hubs

As per CDC, you are required to wear masks in public transportation such as Airlines, Buses, Trains. You are also required to wear masks indoors at US transportation hubs and US airports.

US Land Border Policies

DHS announced that they are opening up the land and ports for non-essential travelers starting from Nov 8th, 2021. The policies are similar to air travel. Travelers need to be fully vaccinated, and they need to provide proof of the vaccination. They need to attest their reason for travel. You can check DHS Fact Sheet for Land Arrivals

No Quarantine, testing requirements for Fully Vaccniated,

If you are fully vaccinated and have a negative COVID test, you do not have any quarantine requirements. There are additional testing requirements, including quarantine for anyone who is not fully vaccinated, including American citizens and Green Card holders. These quarantine and testing requirements are the same for anyone, who got exceptions given as per CDC below.

Exceptions for Vaccination Requirements to travel to US

CDC has given guidance that the below categories of individuals entering the US fall under exceptions and need not be fully vaccinated.

Children who are under 18 years of age.
Anyone traveling to US on diplomatic or official govt. purpose.
Anyone with documented medical situation that taking vaccine will harm them
Anyone participating in COVID-19 vaccine trials
Anyone issued a humanitarin or emergency exception
US Armed forces members, their spouses, and children
Sea Crew members traveling with C-1, D Non-immigrant visa.
Anyone traveling to US for national interest as deterined by US dept of State, DHS and related organizations.
Countries with limited vaccine availablity. Below is the list of such countries as of Oct 25, 2021.

List of Foreign Countries Exempted for Vaccine Requirements

Quarantine, Testing Requirments for not fully vaccinated

If you are not fully vaccinated based on the above exceptions and arrive in US, you are required to follow the below steps

Need to get COVID-19 viral test 3 to 5 days after arriving in US, unless you recovered from COVID-19 within 90 days
Self-quarantine for 7 full days after arrival in US, even if the viral test is negative.
Isolate yourself, if you are tested postive for COVID-19
If you plan to stay in US for 60 days or longer, you must get fully vaccinated.

What does US Lifting Travel Ban mean for Travelers ?

When there was a travel ban in effect, before Nov 8th, 2021, if you need to travel to the US from any of the 33 countries in the travel ban list, you needed a National Interest Exception(NIE) from US Consulate or Embassy. But, starting from November 8th, 2021, individuals who are fully vaccinated do not need the NIE approval from the consulates to travel to the US. Below are more details.

No need to email Consulates for NIE : If the travelers have a valid visa and meet the two requirements of fully vaccinated and negative COVID test, they will be allowed to board the plane. There is no need to email the consulates for approval. This applies to Visa Waiver Program travelers with ESTA approval as well.
US Visa Stamping NIE Requirements : Before Nov 8th, 2021, if you were applying for US Visa stamping for in-perosn interview or going for visa renewal like H1B Dropbox Stamping you needed to show that you were part of the 16 Critical Infrastructure Sectors in US and qualify for NIE to get Visa. Applicants needed to submit NIE Letters from employers to prove that they were part of vital support. If not, they would be given 221g based on not meeting NIE requriements . Starting from November 8th, all of these NIE letters or proofs are not needed, if you meet the vaccine requirements and negative COVID test.
Visitors – B1/ B2 Travel : Before Nov 8th, 2021, most of the visitors from the 33 travel ban countries, unless they qualify for Emergency Visa Appointment , were not allowed to enter the US or even get Visa stamping. Many families members, including parents applying for Visitors (B2 Visa) were not able to get stamping or travel to US with the travel ban. Starting from November 8th, this changed and all of these individuals can get stamping done and travel to the US. But, the US Visa appointments wait times are already crazy, it will be even harder to get slots as more will be looking for slots. We need to wait and see how consulates handle this.

US Travel Ban Lifted for India

The India Travel ban was signed as Proclamation 10199 , which was signed by President back in April 2021. US Dept of State made a formal announcement clarifying that the travel ban would be lifted from November 8th, 2021. See below screenshot from press release from US dept of State

US Embassy India updated their website with the same vaccination requirements as from CDC and the US Dept of State. They have not really given any indication of having more visa stamping slots or anything related to B1/B2 slots. As of now, there are very limited slots available for stamping and only interview waiver applicants. No B1/B2 visitors slots are open yet for stamping under interview waiver. All the consulates are operating in a limited fashion. You can check US Visa Stamping in India News Updates for the latest info and updates.

US Embassy India Update regarding Lifting of Travel Ban

Latest News Updates on Lifting Travel ban to US

Below is the list of news updates on the Travel Ban with links to official and news sources for further reading and review

June 10th, 2022 : CDC Made an announcement canceling the mandatory COVID testing requirements for anyone arriving in the US. Check CDC website Removal of COVID Testing requirement order
November 3rd, 2021 : Covaxin get WHO approval and would be now accepted in US for travel requirements. Check more at WHO Website
White House Proclamation Lifting Travel ban, Vaccination
Official US Dept of State Press Rlease
CDC Guidelines for Travel and Vaccination
October 15th, 2021 : Whitehouse annouced that they would lift the US Travel Ban starting from November 8th, 2021. Also, US Dept of State made official press release on the same. Still policy documents are not yet fully released on the exceptions. CDC has given some guidance. Check US Dept of State Press Release and BBC News , WSJ News , Reuters News
October 12th, 2021 : US announced that they will allow Mexico and Canada Travelers, who are fully vaccinated for COVID-19, to travel to US by land starting from early November. It was announced by DHS in a press release. Check Reuters News , NY Times News , Reuters News
Sep 20th, 2021 : White House announces in virtual press release the upcoming plans on lifting travel ban. Check more details at NPR.org , Associated Press News , Washington Post , CNBC News

Common FAQs

The US Dept of State confirmed that they would refer to CDC Guidance for list of vaccines. Based on CDC guidance, they would accept FDA approved vaccines or WHO approved emergency use vaccines list. For more, check List of Vaccines Accepted in US for Travel

The US Travel ban was lifted on November 8th, 2021. It is based on proclamation signed by Biden introducing vaccination requirements and lifting of Travel ban on Oct 25th, 2021.

As per CDC, they would accept WHO Approved vaccines. In India, the widely used WHO approved vaccines are AstraZeneca / Covishied vaccine and COVAXIN vaccine.

The India Travel Ban to travel to US will be lifted on November 8th, 2021. This is going to be general date for everyone and not tied to specific country.

Yes, it is applicable to all visa types and does not have any restrictions. You need to meet the basic requirements of Vaccination and negative covid test to travel to the US.

What are your thoughts on lifting the travel ban announcement by the US? Add your thoughts in the comments below.

What time the 2024 solar eclipse starts, reaches peak totality and ends today

By Sarah Maddox

Updated on: April 8, 2024 / 8:51 PM EDT / CBS News

The 2024 solar eclipse will be visible across North America today. As the moon's position between the Earth and sun casts a shadow on North America, that shadow, or umbra, will travel along the surface from west to east at more than 1,500 miles per hour along the path of totality .

That means the eclipse will start, peak and end at different times — as will the moments of total darkness along the path of totality — and the best time to view the eclipse depends on where you are located. Some places along the path will have more totality time than others.

In Texas, the south-central region had clouds in the forecast , but it was better to the northeast, according to the National Weather Service. The best eclipse viewing weather was expected in New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine, as well as in Canada's New Brunswick and Newfoundland.

What time does the 2024 total solar eclipse start?

The total solar eclipse will emerge over the South Pacific Ocean before the shadow falls across North America, beginning in parts of Mexico. The path of totality , where onlookers can witness the moon fully blocking the sun (through eclipse viewing glasses for safety ), is expected to first make landfall near the city of Mazatlán around 9:51 a.m. MT.

The total solar eclipse will cross over the U.S.-Mexico border into Texas, where it will emerge over Eagle Pass at 12:10 p.m. CT and then peak at about 1:27 p.m. CT.

In Dallas, NASA data shows the partial eclipse will first become visible at 12:23 p.m. CT and peak at 1:40 p.m. CT. The next states in the path of totality are Oklahoma and Arkansas, where the eclipse begins in Little Rock at 12:33 p.m. CT.

Cleveland will see the beginning of the eclipse at 1:59 p.m. ET. Darkness will start spreading over the sky in Buffalo, New York, at 2:04 p.m. ET. Then, the eclipse will reach northwestern Vermont, including Burlington, at 2:14 p.m. ET. Parts of New Hampshire and Maine will also follow in the path of totality before the eclipse first reaches the Canadian mainland at 3:13 p.m. ET.

Although the experience won't be exactly the same, viewers in all the contiguous U.S. states outside the path of totality will still be able to see a partial eclipse. Some places will see most of the sun blocked by the moon, including Washington, D.C., where the partial eclipse will start at 2:04 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:20 p.m. ET.

In Chicago, viewers can start viewing the partial eclipse at 12:51 p.m. CT, with the peak arriving at 2:07 p.m. CT. In Detroit, viewers will be able to enjoy a near-total eclipse beginning at 1:58 p.m. ET and peaking at 3:14 p.m. ET.

New York City will also see a substantial partial eclipse, beginning at 2:10 p.m. ET and peaking around 3:25 p.m. ET.

In Boston it will begin at 2:16 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:29 p.m. ET.

The below table by NASA shows when the eclipse will start, peak and end in 13 cities along the eclipse's path.

What time will the solar eclipse reach peak totality?

Millions more people will have the chance to witness the total solar eclipse this year than during the last total solar eclipse , which was visible from the U.S. in 2017.

The eclipse's peak will mean something different for cities within the path of totality and for those outside. Within the path of totality, darkness will fall for a few minutes. The longest will last more than 4 minutes, but most places will see between 3.5 and 4 minutes of totality. In cities experiencing a partial eclipse, a percentage of the sun will be obscured for more than two hours.

Mazatlán is set to experience totality at 11:07 am PT. Dallas will be able to see the moon fully cover the sun at 1:40 p.m. CT. Little Rock will start to see the full eclipse at 1:51 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 3:13 p.m. ET and Buffalo at 3:18 p.m. ET. Totality will reach Burlington at 3:26 p.m. ET before moving into the remaining states and reaching Canada around 4:25 p.m.

Outside the path of totality, 87.4% of the sun will be eclipsed in Washington, D.C. at 3:20 p.m. ET, and Chicago will have maximum coverage of 93.9% at 2:07 p.m. CT. New York City is much closer to the path of totality this year than it was in 2017; it will see 89.6% coverage at 3:25 p.m. EDT.

Detroit is another city that will encounter a near-total eclipse, with 99.2% maximum coverage at 3:14 p.m. ET. Boston will see 92.4% coverage at 3:29 p.m. ET.

What time will the solar eclipse end?

The eclipse will leave continental North America from Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NT, according to NASA.

At the beginning of the path of totality in Mazatlán, the eclipse will be over by 12:32 p.m. PT, and it will leave Dallas at 3:02 p.m. CT. The eclipse will end in Little Rock at 3:11 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 4:29 p.m. CDT and Buffalo at 4:32 p.m. ET. Burlington won't be far behind, with the eclipse concluding at 4:37 p.m. ET.

Meanwhile, the viewing will end in Chicago at 3:21 p.m. CT, Washington, D.C. at 4:32 p.m. ET, and New York City at 4:36 p.m. ET.

In Detroit, the partial eclipse will disappear at 4:27 p.m. ET, and in Boston, it will be over at 4:39 p.m. ET.

How long will the eclipse last in total?

The total solar eclipse will begin in Mexico at 11:07 a.m. PT and leave continental North America at 5:16 p.m. NT. From the time the partial eclipse first appears on Earth to its final glimpses before disappearing thousands of miles away, the celestial show will dazzle viewers for about 5 hours, according to timeanddate.com .

The length of the total solar eclipse at points along the path depends on the viewing location. The longest will be 4 minutes and 28 seconds, northwest of Torreón, Mexico. Near the center of the path, totality takes place for the longest periods of time, according to NASA.

Spectators will observe totality for much longer today than during the 2017 eclipse , when the longest stretch of totality was 2 minutes and 32 seconds.

The moon's shadow seen on Earth today, called the umbra, travels at more than 1,500 miles per hour, according to NASA. It would move even more quickly if the Earth rotated in the opposite direction.

What is the longest a solar eclipse has ever lasted?

The longest known totality was 7 minutes and 28 seconds in 743 B.C. However, NASA says this record will be broken in 2186 with a 7 minute, 29 second total solar eclipse. The next total solar eclipse visible from parts of the U.S. won't happen until Aug. 23, 2044.

Sarah Maddox has been with CBS News since 2019. She works as an associate producer for CBS News Live.

More from CBS News

How often do total solar eclipses happen?

When is the next total solar eclipse in the U.S. after today?

Is it safe to take pictures of the solar eclipse with your phone?

When was the last total solar eclipse in the U.S.? Revisiting 2017

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Aslef general secretary Mick Whelan on a picket line at Euston station in London

Rail passengers face rolling strikes but London Underground action called off

Aslef members start three days of 24-hour strikes from Friday but tube driver action cancelled

Rail passengers are bracing for travel disruption as train drivers bring some routes on the national network to a halt in a wave of strikes, but two days of similar action on the London Underground have been called off.

On Friday, members of the union Aslef start the first of three 24-hour strikes that will affect 16 rail operating companies in England as part of its 20-month dispute over pay.

However, on Thursday Aslef called off two daylong tube strikes planned for the following Monday and Saturday 4 May after receiving a proposal from Transport for London that it said resolved the key issues in the dispute.

The run of single-day national network strikes starts on Friday with drivers working for Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains, London Northwestern Railway and CrossCountry. All five operators will run no services on the day.

On Saturday, strikes will take place on Chiltern, GWR, LNER, Northern and TransPennine, while on Monday services on Greater Anglia, GTR’s Great Northern, Thameslink and Southern/Gatwick Express, Southeastern, South Western Railway and SWR Island Line will be cancelled.

Passengers have been warned by operators to expect significant disruption, with most trains cancelled on the strike days. Services on the days before and after the strikes could also be affected. Drivers in Scotland and Wales are not on strike but cross-border rail services will be disrupted.

The strikes coincide with an overtime ban by the union for all operators, which runs from 4 to 6 April, and then 8 to 9 April. It is expected that it will make short-notice cancellations and disruption more likely when travelling on these days.

Announcing the cancellation of the London Underground strikes, an Aslef official said: “Management have confirmed that they have disbanded their ‘trains modernisation’ team and will not be implementing their plans to change drivers’ working arrangements without agreement. They have also agreed to reinstate annual refresher training stopped during the pandemic.”

Train drivers have already held 13 one-day strikes since the dispute started in 2022.

Speaking after the vote last month , Aslef’s general secretary, Mick Whelan, said: “Our members voted overwhelmingly – yet again – for strike action.

“Those votes show – yet again – a clear rejection by train drivers of the ridiculous offer put to us in April last year by [the train operators’ body] the Rail Delivery Group, which knew that offer would be rejected because a land grab for all the terms and conditions we have negotiated over the years would never be accepted by our members.”

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Aslef has said it would continue to strike for a better pay deal after the union rejected an 8% offer last spring.

A spokesperson for the Rail Delivery Group said: “We are sorry that this round of strikes called by the Aslef leadership risks disrupting journeys.

“While we are doing all we can to keep trains running and we will work with our industry partners to keep as many trains running as possible, unfortunately there will be reduced services between Thursday 4 April to Tuesday 9 April. Our advice is to check before you travel and follow the latest travel information.”

A Department for Transport spokesperson said: “Aslef is the only rail union continuing to strike … Having resolved disputes with all other rail unions, the transport secretary and rail minister have ensured that a pay offer is on the table – taking train drivers’ average salaries from £60,000 up to £65,000.”

Rail strikes
Rail industry
London Underground
Rail transport
Trade unions

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Train drivers will keep striking to ‘raise profile’ of pay dispute, says Aslef boss

Train strikes in April and May 2024: Full list of dates and lines affected

Overtime bans, an action short of a strike, also mean some services may not be running or may be reduced as drivers refuse to work their rest days.

Monday 8 April 2024 06:40, UK

Drivers at 16 rail companies have started a fresh wave of strikes, plus overtime bans, causing disruption to the rail network.

The strikes are part of a long-running dispute over pay and will take place across April and May.

Tube strikes planned for April and May have been called off.

In an "entirely separate dispute", ASLEF members will also strike and refuse to do overtime at LNER on specific dates in April "because of the company's failure to adhere to the agreed bargaining machinery", the union said.

LNER's alleged failure to adhere to bargaining machinery refers to it using managers to drive trains on strike days.

People are advised to check before they travel.

Here's what's happening when:

Rail strike dates

Friday 5 April

Strikes will affect Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains, and CrossCountry.

Saturday 6 April

Strikes will affect Chiltern, GWR, LNER, Northern, and TransPennine Trains.

Monday 8 April

Strikes will affect Greater Anglia, c2c, GTR Great Northern Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern/Gatwick Express, South Western Railway main line and depot drivers, and SWR Island Line.

Overtime ban dates

Thursday 4 April

Tuesday 9 April

People are advised to check before they travel, as some areas may have no service.

LNER action dates

Members will strike on Saturday 20 April and refuse to work non-contractual overtime from Friday 19 to Sunday 21 April .

Why are the strikes happening?

ASLEF says the LNER strikes are because of "the company's persistent failure to comply with existing agreements".

Nigel Roebuck, an ASLEF organiser in the northeast, said the operator had been trying to get "every driver manager and driver instructor to work on strike days".

A spokesperson said: "LNER has used managers - paid £500 a shift - to drive trains on strike days and, after the expiry of the last non-contractual overtime agreement, on most days of the week now.

"There is no agreement in place for management to drive services on mainline infrastructure.

"It results in branch line services - such as Lincoln, Skipton, and Harrogate - being cancelled because of a lack of route knowledge and means virtually no driver training is being done."

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

Mick Whelan, ASLEF general secretary, said of the rail strikes : "Last month, when we announced renewed mandates for industrial action, because under the Tories' draconian anti-union laws we have to ballot our members every six months, we called on the train companies, and the government, to come to the table for meaningful talks to negotiate a new pay deal for train drivers who have not had an increase in salary since 2019.

"Our members voted overwhelmingly - yet again - for strike action."

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A Rail Delivery Group spokesperson said: "Nobody wins when industrial action impacts people's lives and livelihoods, and we will work hard to minimise any disruption to our passengers.

"We want to resolve this dispute, but the ASLEF leadership need to recognise that hard-pressed taxpayers are continuing to contribute an extra £54m a week just to keep services running post-COVID.

"We continue to seek an agreement with the ASLEF leadership and remain open to talks to find a solution to this dispute."

When the strikes on the London Underground were announced, Finn Brennan, ASLEF's full-time organiser on the network, said in a statement: "ASLEF Tube train drivers will strike in April and May in a long-running dispute over London Underground's failure to give assurances that changes to our members' terms and conditions will not be imposed without agreement and that all existing agreements will be honoured.

"Despite a previous commitment to withdraw plans for massive changes to drivers' working conditions, London Underground management has established a full-time team of managers preparing to impose their plans.

Sadiq Khan said they had been called off after "talking and engaging with transport staff and trade unions rather than working against them".

The Sunday Read: ‘What Deathbed Visions Teach Us About Living’

Researchers are documenting a phenomenon that seems to help the dying, as well as those they leave behind..

By Phoebe Zerwick

Read by Samantha Desz

Produced by Jack D’Isidoro and Aaron Esposito

Narration produced by Anna Diamond and Emma Kehlbeck

Original music by Aaron Esposito

Engineered by Sophia Lanman and Sharon Kearney

Listen and follow The Daily Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Chris Kerr was 12 when he first observed a deathbed vision. His memory of that summer in 1974 is blurred, but not the sense of mystery he felt at the bedside of his dying father. Throughout Kerr’s childhood in Toronto, his father, a surgeon, was too busy to spend much time with his son, except for an annual fishing trip they took, just the two of them, to the Canadian wilderness. Gaunt and weakened by cancer at 42, his father reached for the buttons on Kerr’s shirt, fiddled with them and said something about getting ready to catch the plane to their cabin in the woods. “I knew intuitively, I knew wherever he was, must be a good place because we were going fishing,” Kerr told me.

Kerr now calls what he witnessed an end-of-life vision. His father wasn’t delusional, he believes. His mind was taking him to a time and place where he and his son could be together, in the wilds of northern Canada.

Kerr followed his father into medicine, and in the last 10 years he has hired a permanent research team that expanded studies on deathbed visions to include interviews with patients receiving hospice care at home and with their families, deepening researchers’ understanding of the variety and profundity of these visions.

There are a lot of ways to listen to ‘The Daily.’ Here’s how.

We want to hear from you. Tune in, and tell us what you think. Email us at [email protected] . Follow Michael Barbaro on X: @mikiebarb . And if you’re interested in advertising with The Daily, write to us at [email protected] .

Additional production for The Sunday Read was contributed by Isabella Anderson, Anna Diamond, Sarah Diamond, Elena Hecht, Emma Kehlbeck, Tanya Pérez and Krish Seenivasan.

Solar Eclipse 2024

See the 2024 Solar Eclipse’s Path of Totality

A total solar eclipse is expected to pass through the United States on April 8, 2024, giving stargazers across the country the opportunity to view the celestial phenomenon in which the sun is completely covered by the moon.

The eclipse will enter the U.S. in Texas and exit in Maine. It is the last time a total solar eclipse will be visible in the contiguous United States until 2044.

Here's what to know about the path of the eclipse and where you can see it.

Read More : How Animals and Nature React to an Eclipse

Where can you see the total solar eclipse?

The eclipse will cross through North America, passing over parts of Mexico, the United States, and Canada.

The eclipse will enter the United States in Texas, and travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse.

Much of the eclipse's visibility depends on the weather. A cloudy day could prevent visitors from seeing the spectacle altogether.

When does the solar eclipse start and end?

The solar eclipse will begin in Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT. It will exit continental North America on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT.

The longest duration of totality—which is when the moon completely covers the sun — will be 4 minutes, 28 seconds, near Torreón, Mexico. Most places along the path of totality will see a totality duration between 3.5 and 4 minutes.

Read More : The Eclipse Could Bring $1.5 Billion Into States on the Path of Totality

Where’s the best place to see the total solar eclipse?

The best place to witness the event is along the path of totality. Thirteen states will be along the path of totality, and many towns across the country are preparing for the deluge of visitors— planning eclipse watch parties and events in the days leading up to totality.

In Rochester, NY, the Rochester Museum and Science Center is hosting a multi-day festival that includes a range of events and activities. Russellville, Arkansas will host an event with activities including live music, science presentations, tethered hot-air balloon rides, and telescope viewings.

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Write to Simmone Shah at [email protected]