Which Countries Are Open for Travel to Americans Right Now?

After a year in isolation, a trip to explore the world may be on the top of your agenda for this year. Whether you’ve been dreaming of visiting the Italian coast, the quaint and colorful towns of Belgium, or Iceland’s astounding nature, Europe — or a large majority of it — has finally started to welcome Americans once again.

There are now over 75 countries open to Americans for travel.

From world-renowned European cities to tropical islands like the Bahamas, Americans aren’t hesitating to get back to their travels in 2021. And exciting new cruise opportunities are opening up around the world, too.

But with these newly opened travel destinations comes various levels of COVID-19 protocols — including pre- and post-travel, along with restrictions during travel.

While there are a few select countries without travel restrictions at all, the majority require one or more of the following:

• Vaccinations
• Negative COVID-19 tests prior to departure and/or upon arrival
• Travel health visas
• Special COVID-19 medical insurance

Some countries still have curfews set in place, while others require masks inside public places, transportation, or possibly even outside. And not adhering to these mandates as a traveler could lead to hefty fines.

While there are some additional complications for traveling due to COVID-19, it doesn’t mean a trip isn’t worth the hassle. Read on to learn about international destinations open to Americans, and post-pandemic requirements for American travelers.

Travel Destinations Open to American Tourists

The following countries are welcoming Americans back for tourism, by land or cruise. We’ve also included specific travel requirements by country for COVID-19 to give you an idea of what you’ll need to think about before traveling.

Bahamas

• All travelers are required to fill out a Travel Health Visa application
• Vaccinated travelers are exempt from testing.
• If you’re craving an island vacation that’s too far from home or difficult to get to, this may be your best bet. Enjoy pristine beaches and crystal clear water, history, and adventure.

Belgium

Walk the streets of Brussels and explore the picture-perfect towns of Brugge and Ghent. Enjoy Belgian culinary delicacies, like Pommes Frites, beer, Belgian waffles, and chocolate!

• There are no entry requirements for Americans entering Belgium (no vaccinations, COVID-19 tests, or quarantine).
• You will be asked to fill out a passenger locator form upon arrival along with health screenings at the airport.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica has long been a popular destination for Americans. From its divine beaches to jungle trekking, bird watching, and volcanoes — there’s something for everyone.

• No vaccinations, testing, or quarantine. Insurance which includes COVID-19 expenses is required for Americans looking to visit Costa Rica.

Iceland

A popular destination in recent years, the natural beauty of Iceland is a great alternative if you’re still wanting to avoid crowds on your travels. Discover glaciers, waterfalls, geysers, and geothermal pools — and in summer you’ll have 20 hours of sunlight and less tourists around!

• Iceland is open for vaccinated travelers or those with proof of recovery.
• Un-vaccinated travelers will need to quarantine until a second test has been given 5 days after arrival.

Ireland

From the busy pub-filled streets of Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher, Ireland is a great place to explore with a variety of things to do and see. Castles, history, nature, and plenty of pints await you.

• Ireland has somewhat stricter requirements than other European countries.
• You’ll need to provide a negative COVID-19 test, and if you’re unvaccinated you’ll need to quarantine for 14 days — but you can take another COVID-19 test 5 days after arrival and end the quarantine period if it’s negative.
• Vaccinated travelers don’t need to quarantine at all.

Italy

If you’ve had to postpone your Italian summer vacation, now is the time to make it happen. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach stay or sightseeing and history, Italy has it all. Visit the magical Italian coast or world-famous cities like Rome and Venice.

• Italy requires either proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to enter. No quarantine.

Maldives

The vacation of a lifetime, these islands are synonymous with luxury travel. And if you’re still wanting to avoid crowds, nothing’s better than a deserted island.

• The Maldives are open to Americans with a negative COVID-19 test — even for vaccinated travelers — with no quarantine requirements.
• Stay at one property to avoid additional COVID-19 tests once you’re there.

South Africa

South Africa has it all — a diverse and vibrant culture, wildlife safaris, city life, safe, adventure, and a beautiful coast.

• One of the most popular vacation spots in Africa, South Africa is now open to Americans with proof of a negative COVID-19 test.
• No quarantine in place.
• There are some curfews and restrictions enforced so be sure to stay up to date.

UAE

The world’s most vaccinated country as of July, travelers can visit the luxurious city of Dubai or experience surrounding Abu Dhabi like a visit to the desert, off-road desert driving, or water activities.

• The US is now on the green list, which exempts vaccinated travelers from quarantine. All travelers must provide negative COVID-19 tests.

Post-COVID International Travel Rules for Americans

Although there are some countries with lax entry requirements, the majority of European countries still require a negative test result to enter, often even for vaccinated travelers.

And if you’ve heard of the digital COVID-19 certificate for Europeans — making it easier to travel throughout Europe —  you’ll have to wait a little longer before this is available for non-EU citizens.

Apart from Europe, destinations in Central America, remote islands, and others have worked hard to open for Americans. While some Asian countries are now open, they require a 14-day quarantine so aren’t the ideal option for short-term travelers.

With added COVID-19 measures, testing, and vaccination requirements around the world, it’s a great time to explore new places or re-book that trip you’ve been meaning to plan.

But it’s important to be fully aware of all protocols prior to travel to avoid any confusion, headaches, or disappointment. Stay current with guidelines before departing, as they can change from one day to the next.

Additional Reminders for The International Traveler

If you haven’t looked at your passport in while, make sure it’s up to date before booking a trip. There are currently delays for passport updates so keep this in mind when planning your next trip.

Another travel tip to keep in mind: if you’re traveling to a country that doesn’t require a negative test result, check your flight itinerary in case you need one in another country before arriving at your final destination.

While it’s safer now to travel, getting protection for missed flights, cancellations, or injuries abroad can save you huge headaches later.

Here are 7 reasons why you need travel protection for your next trip>

Get Travel Deals Today!