On March 28, the United States Senate voted to pass HJ Res 7, a resolution that would effectively end COVID-19 as a national emergency in the US from a legal perspective. For prospective international visitors to the United States, the passing of this resolution could also mean the end of the COVID-19 vaccination requirement to enter the USA; a measure that has been in place for all foreigners since 2021.

The Biden administration is already planning to wind down the COVID national emergency on May 11. So, whether HJ Res 7 is put into law or not is somewhat of a moot point. If all goes as planned, the US should end its COVID restrictions in a little over a month even if Biden does not sign the resolution.

However, although the president has indicated that he’s strongly opposed to HJ Res 7, he stated yesterday that he will sign the bill if it comes to his desk. So long as he does, COVID restrictions and vaccine requirements for visitors to the USA could end about a month earlier than currently planned. 

Of course, the exact details of how this will be implemented and when exactly proof of vaccination will no longer be required for incoming passengers to the US is not yet clear. Regardless, this is excellent news for those who have been waiting to visit the US, or waiting to reunite with their families. 

Visitors Medical Insurance is Still Essential

No matter the laws, requirements or potential risks, all visitors to the United States should have visitors medical insurance coverage. While it is true that the risk of COVID-19 infection and hospitalization is now perceived as lower, it is still possible. Plus, COVID is just one of many other illnesses or injuries that could befall a USA tourist. 

Visitors medical insurance existed long before COVID-19 did because the risks have always been there, and they still are. 

A broken bone, serious cut, influenza, stomach sickness or any number of other illnesses or injuries could lead you to seek medical attention in the United States. And while the treatment options here are vast and high quality, they’re also very expensive. Most USA visitors cannot afford medical treatment in the US without insurance; and the domestic health insurance from the visitor’s home country will not be accepted here. 

So, make the smart choice and purchase coverage. Shop visitors medical insurance plans today.