The Center of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a requirement for all airlines to obtain proof international travelers haven’t been to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) within 21 days of coming to the U.S. The move is in response to an Ebola outbreak affecting the DRC. The notice was published in the Federal Register on Oct. 27, 2026.
Primary Takeaways
Under the Order, every passenger on a U.S.-bound international flight must sign an attestation stating they have not been in the DRC during the 21 days before boarding. Airlines won’t board anyone who doesn’t complete one. Travelers who were in the DRC, even just connecting through an airport there, generally can’t fly to the U.S. until day 22 after leaving. Employers with staff working in or passing through the DRC should build that waiting period into travel schedules. The requirement applies to flights departing at or after 11:59 p.m. EST on November 3, 2026, and is currently set to expire December 18, 2026.
As always, ILBSG actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws. In an ever-evolving immigration policy landscape, it’s particularly critical you get the right advice.