No Congo Visit in 21 Days? Airlines Need Your Word
Published Date: 10/27/2026
Notice
Summary
Starting November 3, 2026, anyone flying to the U.S. from another country must sign a statement saying they haven’t been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the last 21 days. Airlines won’t let passengers board without this attestation, helping keep everyone safe. This rule lasts until December 18, 2026, unless changed earlier.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Criminal Penalties for False Attestations
Passengers must sign the attestation under penalty of law; knowingly submitting a false attestation can be prosecuted under federal false-statement laws (including 18 U.S.C. 1001). The Order also makes willful false statements enforceable through criminal provisions cited in the Order.
Must Attest You Were Not in DRC 21 Days
Starting at 11:59 p.m. EST on November 3, 2026, anyone boarding a flight to the United States from any foreign country must present a signed paper or digital attestation that they have not been physically present in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) during the 21 days before boarding. Airlines will not board passengers without the attestation; the requirement is in effect through December 18, 2026.
Airlines Must Verify and Keep Attestations 42 Days
Airlines and aircraft operators must review and confirm each passenger's completed signed attestation before boarding, retain a paper or digital copy for at least 42 days after the flight departs for the United States, and provide attestations to the U.S. Government on request. Failure to comply can block an airline from receiving controlled free pratique (permission to enter a U.S. port, disembark passengers, and begin operations).
Limited Exemptions and Conditional Travel Allowed
The Order exempts aircraft operators transporting passengers with Ebola under U.S. Government authorization and individuals granted a CDC exemption for humanitarian or other important government considerations (for example, emergency medical evacuations). Exempted individuals may be subject to additional conditions such as post-arrival monitoring or self-quarantine as directed by public health authorities.
Who Can Sign and Allowed Attestation Formats
The attestation may be completed and signed in paper or digital form, including electronic signatures. A parent or authorized individual may sign for passengers under 18 or for passengers unable to sign (e.g., due to age or impairment). Airlines may use third parties or translations but remain legally responsible for accuracy.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-21831, Proposed Data Collection Submitted for Public Comment and Recommendations
The CDC wants your thoughts on a new form for travelers to prove they haven’t been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the last 21 days before coming to the U.S. This helps keep everyone safe from Ebola. If you travel or work with travelers, this might affect you, and the CDC needs your comments by December 28, 2026.
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-21827, Committee and Quarterly Board Meetings
The National Assessment Governing Board is holding its quarterly and committee meetings in November 2026, both in person and online. Anyone interested must register ahead of time to join and share their thoughts. These meetings guide important decisions about national student assessments, with no new costs announced.
Next: 2026-21830, Proposed Data Collection Submitted for Public Comment and Recommendations
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