DHS reiterates to travelers that vaccination certificate is required

UNITED STATES – In view of the increase of Covid-19 cases in the United States, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reiterated to travelers who wish to enter the United States by land or ferry, they must present a certificate showing that the person has a complete vaccination schedule.

Cities like El Paso, Texas and San Diego, California have strengthened their vaccination and pandemic prevention strategies. Only on the border with Ciudad Juarez, El Paso has an accumulated of 202,750 positive cases and 3,144 deaths; while on the border with Tijuana, San Diego has registered more than 4,553 deaths due to the coronavirus and more than 613,632 infections.

The Secretary of Homeland Security, Alejandro N. Mayorkas indicated that since 2022, non-U.S. citizens entering the country through the northern and southern borders are required to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19; he also urged visitors to be prepared to present an official document supporting inoculation.

These new restrictions apply to non-U.S. persons traveling for essential and non-essential reasons; while legal permanent residents and U.S. citizens are not required to follow this measure.

“These updated travel requirements reflect the Administration’s commitment to protecting public health while safely facilitating the cross-border trade and travel that is critical to our economy,” Mayorkas said.

These changes were first announced in October 2021 and were made in consultation with the White House and several federal agencies – including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – to align appropriate measures to restrict international travel.

It was also reported that the Covid-19 test is not required for entry through a land port of entry or ferry terminal.

DHS explained that while these new vaccination requirements do not apply to U.S. citizens, legal permanent residents or U.S. nationals, all travelers are reminded to bring a Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)-compliant document, such as a valid passport, Trusted Traveler Program card or enhanced tribal credential upon return to the United States.

Mayorkas noted that non-U.S. persons attempting to enter the United States irregularly, through any illegal means or without proper documentation, will be returned in accordance with CDC’s Title 42 public health order.

Source: MEXICO-NOW Staff