What COVID-19 tests are required for international travel?
It depends where you are going.
In an effort to limit the spread of new variants of coronavirus, many countries require incoming travelers to show a recent negative test.
For example, the US accepts results from a test that detects the genetic material of the virus – which is considered the most sensitive type of test – or a rapid test that looks for viral proteins called antigens. The tests must be taken no later than three days before departure to the US
Health professionals usually provide more sensitive lab tests via a nasal swab, which takes a day or more to yield results. Rapid tests have a turnaround time of about 15 to 30 minutes and are increasingly used to screen people at test sites, offices, schools and nursing homes. For some quick tests, users can wipe themselves at home.
For both tests, the US requires electronic or printed evidence of a negative result from a medical laboratory. That means that even if you plan on getting the faster test, you should probably see a health care provider who can provide documentation.
England has a similar set-up and accepts results from both types of tests. But health authorities have additional requirements there, including that the tests meet certain thresholds for accuracy. Travelers are told to check that their test meets the standards.
After countries instituted different requirements, officials in the European Union agreed to standardize the requirements across the 27-country bloc.
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The AP answers your questions about the corona virus in this series. Submit them to: [email protected].
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