This archive report was first published on 22 June 2021.
June 22, 2021
As the Covid-19 pandemic recedes in the West, Europe has opened its doors to vaccinated American travelers, but the United States has yet to reciprocate, maintaining restrictions imposed 15 months ago.
President Joe Biden has hailed progress on vaccination, with a goal of reaching 70% of Americans with at least one dose by July 4, and health authorities have eased mask recommendations, but the language on travel restrictions has remained constant.
"We look forward to the resumption of transatlantic travel as soon as the science permits," State Department spokesman Ned Price said.
However, Biden has made clear he is not in a hurry on travel, with his administration renewing through July 21 the closure of land borders with Canada and Mexico.
The US has banned travel from most European Union countries, as well as Britain, Brazil, China, India, Iran, and South Africa, but has allowed exemptions for journalists, students, and others.
By contrast, the European Union has reopened its borders to Americans who are vaccinated or present negative test results.
"Hope we will find a similar solution in the spirit of reciprocity for travel from Germany and the EU to the US!" tweeted German Ambassador Emily Haber.
While the EU opened its borders under pressure from member states reliant on tourism, there is no similar force in the US clamoring to let in foreign tourists.
