US introduces Ebola declaration requirement for all international arrivals

The United States is introducing a mandatory Ebola-related declaration for passengers boarding flights to the country from overseas, as authorities tighten travel restrictions linked to the outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

From 3 November 2026, airlines and other aircraft operators must obtain a declaration from every passenger confirming they have not been in the DRC during the 21 days before boarding.

The requirement applies to flights departing from any foreign country for the US, including commercial services, private aviation, and business aircraft, according to guidance published by the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) on 27 October.

Passengers may submit the declaration electronically or on paper. Operators must retain the records for at least 42 days after the flight arrives in the US.

Travellers who have been in the DRC during the preceding 21 days will not be permitted to board US-bound flights under the new rules, including US citizens and nationals.

The restriction also applies to passengers who transited through the DRC without leaving their aircraft, noted the NBAA.

However, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and Airlines for America have urged the CDC to reconsider the measures, warning that the short implementation period could create significant operational and financial burdens. Airlines for America said the changes would require extensive updates to check-in systems, staff training, and airport procedures, while both groups called for a more proportionate approach.

Implications for international travel and assistance

The measures introduce additional screening and documentation requirements for airlines and other operators, with potential consequences for passengers whose itineraries involve the DRC.

Travel insurers and assistance providers coordinating journeys to the US will need to account for the restrictions when arranging flights, including medical repatriations and other specialist transport.

Separate requirements remain in place for US citizens and nationals who have recently visited Uganda or South Sudan, but not the DRC. Those travellers must enter through one of three designated airports: Washington Dulles, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta, or New York John F Kennedy.

The NBAA said aircraft operators should prepare to collect declarations from all passengers on international flights to the US, regardless of their departure country.

The new requirement adds to existing US public health measures intended to limit the risk of Ebola entering the country.