Back in March 2020 the US closed its borders to most European countries to curb the spread of COVID-19, and the EU responded in kind. Though coronavirus cases are surging around the world, and show no signs of letting up, the Trump administration is reportedly considering lifting the eight month travel restrictions on foreign nationals coming from Brazil, Britain, Ireland, and the 26 member countries of the Schengen area. However,non-U.S.citizens those coming from China and Iran would still be banned from entering the country, an administration official confirmed on Wednesday.
According to media sources, White House coronavirus task-force members, public health and other federal agencies are backing a plan to lift the entry ban on these listed countries.
Administration officials believe lifting the bans could provide a boost to airlines in the U.S. that are struggling as a result of international travel falling by an estimated 70 percent. The timetable for a final decision remains unclear, as President Trump could still reject the plan.
The rising number of coronavirus cases around the world and the possibility that European nations would likely not immediately allow Americans to visit could impact Trump’s decision to lift the bans.
Nearly every European country still bans most U.S travellers from visiting. While Britain and Ireland allow American visits, they are required to quarantine for two-weeks upon arrival. Brazil also allows U.S. travelers.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued new travel and testing recommendations for international flights on Saturday. It suggests being tested for COVID-19 before traveling and quarantining for seven days at home and taking another test upon returning.
As said by an Airlines for America spokesperson, the CDC’s guidance is a “step in the right direction,” but it needs to be “followed by a recognition that testing can be used to safely reopen borders without quarantines.”
