All passengers flying internationally to the United States, including American citizens and Green Card holders, must sign a declaration confirming they have not been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo during the previous 21 days.
Travelers heading to the United States will face a new mandatory pre-boarding requirement beginning November 3, 2026. Air Serbia has issued a notice informing passengers about the new procedure introduced by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to reduce the risk of Ebola entering the country.
The requirement takes effect at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on November 3, applying to flights departing for the United States at or after that time.
Under the new rule, every passenger must complete and sign a declaration confirming that they have not been present in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) during the previous 21 days.
The requirement applies to all passengers on international flights to the United States, including U.S. citizens, nationals and lawful permanent residents holding Green Cards.
Transit Through Congo Also Counts
The declaration is part of a public health measure intended to reduce the risk of Ebola transmission. The 21-day period corresponds to the maximum incubation period for the disease, according to the CDC.
Importantly, the rule also applies to travelers who transited through an airport in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, even if they did not leave the aircraft or the airport’s transit area.
Passengers who have been in the DRC during the previous 21 days generally cannot board a flight to the United States under this order unless they qualify for a specific exemption granted by U.S. authorities. The CDC calculates the waiting period using calendar days, with travel permitted beginning on Day 22, provided all other requirements are met.
Each Passenger Must Have a Separate Declaration
Air Serbia says passengers must prepare an individual, completed and signed declaration in printed form before arriving at the airport.
The CDC’s general rules allow the declaration to be submitted in paper or digital format, but travelers should follow their airline’s specific instructions. A parent or authorized representative may sign on behalf of a minor or a person unable to sign independently.
Failure to present the required declaration may result in denied boarding, even if the passenger holds a valid visa or other travel documents.
Where to Find the Official Form
The official declaration and detailed instructions are available on the CDC website. Travelers are advised to review the requirements and prepare their paperwork before leaving for the airport to avoid delays or denied boarding.
