Meeting COVID-19 requirements when traveling usually requires a bit of research into country-specific restrictions. Every travel destination has its own regulations, so checking for the most up-to-date information before departure is essential.
Official government websites and international travel organizations are good sources of reliable information. If you need a test, it’s good to know the different types of testing available and how they differ from each other.
How to check current COVID-19 restrictions
Several resources are available for you to use to check COVID-19 testing requirements before you travel. Remember to check the “last update” or “as of” date on these resources to make sure you have the most up-to-date information possible.
It’s a good idea to read the requirements carefully. Often, your country of destination will be specific about what type of COVID-19 test you need to take to be cleared for travel.
In the past, some countries have required a letter from a public health official in some circumstances to clear a person for travel. It’s best to know in advance what documents you need to show when you arrive at your destination.
Resources that can allow you to check current COVID-19 travel restrictions include:
- U.S. federal government website: The U.S. federal government has COVID-19 international travel advisories listed on its USA.gov website. You can visit this page to learn whether you need to present a COVID-19 test when returning to the United States.
- UNWTO/IATA destination tracker: A joint effort between UN Tourism (an agency of the United Nations) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the destination tracker allows you to check for current restrictions in each country. The tool mentions whether traveling to a certain country requires a COVID-19 test, quarantine, or any other restrictions.
- IATA travel center: The IATA travel center has an online tool that will outline whether you need a COVID-19 test, proof of vaccination, or any other health documentation.
- Airlines: You can also check with your airline to help determine whether you need to take a COVID-19 test before takeoff and how to present results when you arrive.
- Government websites of destination country: Most international destinations have publicly available information about current COVID-19 testing requirements listed on their government website. Take note of which requirements apply to you. Regulations might differ depending on whether you are entering a country as a citizen or a visitor.
What are the different types of COVID-19 tests?
Several different COVID-19 tests are available. The type you will need to take will depend on the guidelines set by the country you are visiting.
Common examples of COVID-19 tests include:
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests
A PCR test is a viral COVID-19 test. It looks for the RNA of SARS-Cov-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
PCR tests are typically done at a medical clinic, hospital, or other testing location. The sample usually comes from the anterior nares (just inside the nostrils), but that sample location can vary depending on the specific PCR test.
A technician, nurse, or doctor will take a sample by placing a cotton swab in the area. It can take up to 3 days to get the results of a COVID-19 PCR test, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Rapid tests (antigen tests)
An antigen test is also a viral COVID-19 test. Antigen tests are rapid tests that produce a result within 15–30 minutes, per the CDC. At-home COVID-19 tests are typically antigen tests. They look for proteins from the SARS-Cov-2 virus to detect current infection.
Rapid tests are less reliable than PCR tests. If you do not have symptoms of COVID-19 infection, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends doing 2 more rapid tests (3 in total) to confirm a negative result. If you do have symptoms but test negative the first time, you should do a second antigen test. These tests should be taken 48 hours apart.
One PCR test can confirm the results, positive or negative, of a single rapid test.
Antibody tests (serology)
Healthcare professionals can also perform a blood test for SARS-Cov-2 antibodies, but this does not tell you if you have a current infection. It also does not test for immunity to future SARS-Cov-2 infection.
This test typically won’t qualify as part of COVID-19 testing for travel. It is not a viral COVID-19 test.
The test looks for the presence of SARS-Cov-2 antibodies in the body. Antibodies are your immune system’s response to infection. If you have antibodies, it might mean you previously contracted SARS-Cov-2 or had COVID-19.
The antibody test does not confirm that your body responded to a COVID-19 vaccine. Some antibody tests might not detect the antibodies that your immune system makes after a vaccination.
How to find a COVID-19 test location near me
When finding a test location, it can be helpful to consider the exact type of COVID-19 test you need for travel and what kind of documentation you need to bring to the airport. Then, you can ensure you choose a testing location that offers the correct type of test and can provide the proper paperwork.
You can get a COVID-19 test at several different places. You will likely have to make an appointment, and locations might charge a fee for the test. If it is covered by your insurance, you might have a coinsurance or copay.
Testing might be available at:
- community-based testing locations, like a pharmacy or health center
- local health departments
- primary care clinics or doctor’s offices
If you do not have health insurance, you might be able to access no-cost COVID-19 testing. This is available to people without insurance who have COVID-19 symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who recently tested positive. You can find no-cost testing locations near you by using the testing locator tool offered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Summary
Before you travel, it’s a good idea to confirm the COVID-19 testing and documentation you require. Tools from the IATA and your destination’s government website can help provide the information you need.
COVID-19 PCR tests and antigen tests are two common testing options. That said, your destination likely will require a specific kind of test, which is why you should always check the requirements before you travel.
Several places can offer COVID-19 testing, such as local health centers, pharmacies, primary care clinics, and doctor’s offices.
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