COVID testing for international travel

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a new set of COVID-19 testing requirements for “boarding a flight to the United States.” Meaning, when and if you travel abroad, you'll need to adhere to the new rules in order to come back home.

‍

While all of the information is on the CDC’s website, it can feel confusing and a bit hard to follow. So we did all the digging for you, and here is what you’ll need as far as COVID-19 testing:

Before boarding a flight to the US you’ll need to present one the following, regardless of your vaccination status :

• A negative COVID-19 test - taken no more than 1 day (24 hours) before the flight’s departure
  

• Documentation of Recovery - in case you were tested positive for COVID-19 during the past 90 days and recovered, a signed letter from a healthcare provider or a public health official clearing you for travel** 
  

**If you tested positive for COVID-19 more than 90 days prior to your flight you’ll need to present a negative COVID-19 test

Requirements for COVID-19 pre-flight testing are as follow:

• You can present either a PCR test or an antigen test administered by a healthcare professional 
  

• You can take an antigen self-test under the following conditions:
  

• The test must have an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 
  

• The testing must be done while a telehealth provider is observing you in real-time via a video app
  

• The telehealth provider must be able to confirm your identity and observe the sample collection and testing procedure
  

• The telehealth provider will confirm the test results and issue a document that meets the CDC’s requirements

What does this all mean?

Basically, you have two options:

Spend time during your vacation or business trip to find a hospital or a clinic that administers COVID-19 tests and physically go there to get tested on your last day.

Or,

Before you leave the U.S., purchase an EUA FDA-authorized antigen test, remember to pack it, and on the last day of your trip, from the comfort of your hotel room or Airbnb rental, self-test while video calling with a telehealth provider.

Sounds like a no brainer.

We can help with international testing: Say Hello to On/Go with Azova

First, we simplified rapid COVID-19 testing for local municipalities, education entities and enterprise employers with the On/Go duo of at-home testing kit and mobile app for result verification and reporting. Now, we are now offering a simple and convenient testing solution for travelers.

With Azova you’ll be able to stop worrying about COVID-19 testing and focus on your business, or pleasure, while abroad.

Here’s how it works.  You’ll need to order a box of tests (one box, or two tests, per person) and schedule the telehealth video session prior to your departure (each individual will need their own appointment). You can easily buy a test online (here or here ), right after you make a reservation for that fantastic restaurant, book a hot yoga lesson or buy tickets for that concert you’ve been waiting for 20 months to see…

Right after you book a flight for your upcoming trip, head over to the Azova website to sort out your COVID-19 testing. Follow the directions on their website for testing timing, appointment scheduling, and all the burning questions you may have before you get on your way.

Have a safe trip!