Passengers flying to the United States or connecting through the country must now complete and sign an attestation form under a new US travel requirement.
The rule came into effect at 11:59 pm EST on November 3, 2026, and applies to international flights travelling to the US, including those departing from Dubai.
According to an Emirates travel advisory updated on November 4, passengers must download the form from the US government website, print it, complete it and present a physical copy at check-in.
For connecting passengers, the form may be verified at the boarding gate instead.
Each traveller requires a separate attestation, although an authorised representative may complete and sign it on their behalf where permitted. Certain exemptions apply under the US government’s rules.
Why is the new form required?
The new requirement is a public health measure aimed at reducing the risk of Ebola entering the United States through air travel. Passengers must confirm that they have not been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) during the 21 days before boarding their flight.
According to the CDC, the 21-day period reflects the maximum incubation period for Ebola, which is the time between exposure to the virus and the appearance of symptoms.
Travellers who have been in the DRC during this period are not permitted to board flights to the United States unless an official exemption applies.
Passengers flying with Emirates are advised to print and complete the form before arriving at the airport.
