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Scottsdale expert gives tips as international travelers face new requirements

The CDC is tightening testing requirements to combat the spread of the Omicron variant.

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — There will be stricter U.S. travel guidelines on Monday that you need to be aware of.

All international passengers, regardless of vaccination status, must have a negative COVID-19 test within one day of travel to enter.  

The CDC is tightening testing requirements to combat the spread of the Omicron variant.

“It’s a huge change,” Tammy Fisher explained.

She owns Tammy Fisher Travel in Scottsdale and has been booking clients’ overseas vacations for the past 10 years.  

“Previously, if you were vaccinated, you had a three-day window in order to come back. However, now it’s a one-day window and that’s for international travel,” she said.

You must get tested within one day of hopping on a flight to the U.S. no matter where you’re from.

RELATED: LIST: Where have omicron cases been confirmed in the US?

“Whether you’re an American citizen or visitor coming to the U.S.,” she explained.

Vaccinated or not, the rules apply to everyone.

“I think people are frustrated to have to figure out how to get their test within 24 hours when they’re in another country.”

Fisher said the good news is you can find tests easily. She said if you’re staying in an all-inclusive resort, they’ll have them. Another option is bringing a test with you.

“You can purchase one at a local CVS or Walgreens and as long as they have the eMed added to it, you can actually do it from the ease of your hotel room or like I did on the beach the other day when I was returning to the U.S.”

You can still have fun on vacation.

“Go and enjoy we are open I know we’re in a pandemic but we can do it safely.”

Just do your homework beforehand.

“Do your research, check with your travel agent, make sure to check the requirements for the destination you’re going to,” Fisher said. “For example in Mexico, you can go without a COVID test but you have to have the COVID test to come back.”

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