Anyone flying to the US from 3 November 2026 must submit a written declaration in addition to an ESTA or visa. In it, the traveller confirms that they have not been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) in the 21 days before departure. According to the Federal Foreign Office, the airline may refuse boarding if the declaration is missing.
The new requirement applies to everyone on international flights to the US, regardless of nationality or whether they are travelling with an ESTA or visa. It applies to flights departing after 11:59pm Eastern Standard Time on 3 November 2026.
Three documents, three purposes
ESTA is the electronic travel authorisation for eligible travellers under the Visa Waiver Program. It is required for many German nationals on tourist and business trips of up to 90 days. It does not address the new question about time spent in DR Congo.
A visa is required for travellers who are not eligible for ESTA or whose purpose of travel is not covered by the Visa Waiver Program. Even a valid visa does not replace the additional declaration.
The DR Congo declaration confirms that the person has not been there in the 21 days before the flight. The US health agency CDC requires it for all passengers on international flights to the US. Under CDC rules, the airline provides the form and collects it. Whether you need to print it out in advance therefore depends on the airline’s procedures: check its guidance before travelling.
What counts as a stay?
What matters is physical presence in DR Congo during the 21 days before departure. According to the CDC, this also includes a connection at an airport there, even if you did not leave the aircraft or airport. Simply flying over the country, however, does not count as being present. The declaration must be signed; false statements may have criminal consequences under US law.
Anyone who has been in DR Congo in the 21 days before their planned flight cannot simply travel with a signed declaration: under CDC rules, those affected may not board a flight bound for the US during this period. Travel is possible from day 22 after leaving the country at the earliest. According to the CDC, this restriction also applies to US citizens.
Pre-departure checklist
- Check your travel documentation: Check whether a valid ESTA or visa is required in your case. The declaration is required in addition to this.
- Review your travel history over the past 21 days: Transit through DR Congo also counts; flying over it does not.
- Obtain the declaration from the airline and sign it: The airline handles submission. Follow its specific check-in instructions.
- If you have been in DR Congo: Do not go to the airport for a US-bound flight within the 21-day period; instead, discuss your travel dates and carriage with the airline.
At a glance
Since 3 November 2026, an additional declaration concerning DR Congo has been required for flights to the US. It replaces neither an ESTA nor a visa. A stay or transit there in the 21 days before the flight rules out carriage to the US during that period; the airline checks the declaration.
Original reviewed by the editors · 13 November 2026
