USA Travel Restrictions for New Zealand Citizens: A Comprehensive Guide

In response to the global pandemic, the United States and New Zealand have imposed various travel restrictions aimed at limiting the spread of COVID-19. This guide is designed to help New Zealand travelers understand the current situation regarding travel to the USA, the visa requirements, and the quarantine measures in place.

Current Travel Policies for New Zealand Citizens

While there are currently no direct bans on travel from New Zealand to the USA, several factors need to be considered before planning a trip. As US citizens returning from NZ, we recently experienced flight cancellations and had to find alternative routes. For New Zealand citizens planning a return to the USA, it is important to be aware of the following:

Available Flights and Alternative Routes

There are indeed flights to the USA from New Zealand, but they often require layovers or transfers. A direct flight from Auckland to San Francisco or Seattle, for example, was recently canceled, and we had to find an alternative route that included a stopover in Houston. When planning your journey, it is advisable to:

Keep an eye on live flight updates and cancellations. Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers delays and cancellations. Plan for potential layovers and additional travel time.

For travelers in other countries, particularly in Australia, they may also need to consider alternative flight routes to enter the USA.

Visa Requirements

It is recommended that New Zealand citizens getting a travel visa before visiting the USA. While a visa is not required for most New Zealand citizens, it is highly advisable to check the latest requirements and apply in advance to avoid any inconvenience.

Quarantine Regulations for Returning to New Zealand

For your return to New Zealand, a 14-day quarantine is currently required. However, it is important to stay informed about any changes to these regulations, as they are subject to change and could be updated in the coming months. A 2-week quarantine period could change late in 2020 and likely by 2021.

Local Health and Safety Measures

When traveling to the USA, it is essential to follow local health and safety guidelines. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Mandatory Mask-Wearing in Airports

Wearing a mask in US airport terminals is a mandatory requirement, especially when moving between terminals. This is in line with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines to reduce the spread of respiratory droplets.

Social Distancing and Crowd Management

Listen to airport staff and follow crowd management strategies, such as maintaining a distance of 6 feet (approximately 2 meters) from others. This will help reduce the risk of exposure to the virus in crowded areas.

Health Screening and Testing

Some airports may conduct health screenings, and it is possible that you may be asked to provide a negative COVID-19 test result prior to boarding your flight. Confirm with your airline regarding any pre-departure testing requirements.

Conclusion

Traveling to the USA from New Zealand requires careful planning and a good understanding of the current health and travel regulations. It is recommended that you:

Contact a trusted travel agent for the most up-to-date information on flight availability and travel restrictions. Check the latest visa requirements and apply well in advance. Follow local health and safety guidelines, particularly regarding mask-wearing and social distancing.

For a well-informed and safe travel experience, stay updated on all relevant health and travel advisories. By following these guidelines, you can navigate the current travel landscape with confidence.