Travellers from Monaco heading to the United States will soon need to complete an additional health declaration before flying, including those simply changing planes at an American airport. Airlines must refuse boarding without it, unless a US Government exemption applies.

In an announcement issued on Thursday 29th October, Monaco’s Government alerted Monegasque nationals and residents to the requirement, which asks travellers to confirm they have not been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo during the previous 21 days.

The measure is intended to reduce the risk of Ebola being introduced into the United States. It applies regardless of nationality, including to American citizens and permanent residents.

When does it take effect?

While Monaco’s announcement refers to 3rd November, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention specifies 11.59pm Eastern Standard Time on Tuesday 3rd November – equivalent to 5.59am on Wednesday 4th November in Monaco.

The requirement covers flights departing for the United States from another country at or after that time, including private flights.

A separate declaration for every traveller

Each passenger needs an individual declaration. A parent or authorised representative can complete it for a child, while authorised representatives may also sign for other travellers.

The form can be submitted on paper or digitally through the airline or aircraft operator’s process. Operators are responsible for checking completion before boarding and retaining the declarations for at least 42 days. Knowingly providing false information can lead to criminal penalties.

Airport transit through the Democratic Republic of the Congo counts as presence in the country, even if the traveller stayed onboard the aircraft. Passengers who have been there must generally wait until day 22 after leaving before boarding a US-bound flight, unless granted an exemption.

Travellers can consult the CDC’s official guidance and download the declaration form, and should check their airline’s submission instructions before departure.

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