Beginning on November 8, non-American travellers will be able to visit the United States of America from Switzerland and all other Schengen countries, provided they are vaccinated against COVID-19.

US lifts entry ban for Switzerland and the European Union

In a statement, President Joe Biden said that it was in the interests of the US to move away from nation-to-nation restrictions and begin to allow travel based on vaccination status. The US has been off-limits for most tourism and international travel since the recent summer rise in COVID, which saw the White House issue a blanket travel ban on Europe for non-American citizens.

From November 8, travellers and tourists from Switzerland will be able to visit the US quarantine free, provided they are vaccinated against COVID-19, and are able to provide a negative COVID viral test done no more than three days before departure. The new rules also apply to US citizens and residents.

Vaccination certificates issued in Switzerland, the European Union and the United Kingdom are all valid proof of vaccination with an ID like a passport. The second dose of the vaccine (or the first if your vaccine is a single dose) must have been administered two weeks before travel to count as a full vaccination. If you are unvaccinated, you must take your viral test 24 hours before departure.

Travel to America now possible with COVID vaccination and test

Exemptions will be made if you have medical proof that you cannot be vaccinated, people with proof that they have recovered from COVID and people under the age of 18 are exempt from the vaccine requirement, but still must be tested. Countries where vaccine supplies are scarce will also be able to apply for an exemption, but none of the countries listed are in Europe.

The State Department said in a statement, “Families and children can see each other again, tourists can visit our amazing landmarks and this policy will further boost the economic recovery." It is hoped that the new rules will be a boost to Swiss airports and give more options to Swiss people on their holidays.

For more information on the new entry requirements, please visit the website for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.