Amidst the surge in COVID cases around the world, especially China, the Centre is already taking steps to keep the situation in India in check. The Ministry of Health issued new guidelines for international travel. Here’s everything you need to know.
To be fully effective from December 24, 2022, these revised guidelines come in the wake of the rising number of COVID cases in countries like the US, Japan, South Korea, Brazil and China. As news of hospitals running out of beds and people queuing up outside hospitals and ICUs are coming in from China, the Centre is taking measures for prevention and to stay alert. Check out the new international travel guidelines as issued by the Ministry of Health.
India issues new COVID guidelines for international travel
Check out all the international travel guidelines as issued by the Centre.

– If you are planning for international travel to India, passengers must be fully vaccinated as per the approved primary schedule of vaccination against COVID in their respective countries.
-During travel, all passengers are required to follow the in-flight announcement about the COVID-19 pandemic precautionary measures, like the use of masks and maintaining social distancing at all points of entry and during the flight.
-If any passenger faces COVID-19 symptoms during travel, they shall be isolated immediately as per standard COVID protocols. They will be made to wear a mask, isolated from other passengers and shifted to an isolation facility subsequently for follow up treatment.
-On arrival, deboarding has to be done while maintaining social distancing.
-Thermal screening will be mandatory for all passengers by medical professionals. Those who will be found to be symptomatic during screening will be isolated and taken to a designated medical facility.
-Post arrival, a certain section of the passenger will undergo random post-arrival testing at the airport.
In view of the rising cases of #Covid19 in some countries, reviewed the situation with experts and officials today.
COVID is not over yet. I have directed all concerned to be alert and strengthen surveillance.
We are prepared to manage any situation. pic.twitter.com/DNEj2PmE2W
— Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) December 21, 2022
-The travellers for this testing will be selected by the airlines. They will need to submit the samples and can leave the airport thereafter.
-If these samples are tested positive, they will be sent for genomic testing at INSACOG laboratory network and the passengers will be isolated and treated, as required.
-All passengers should also self-monitor their health after arrival. In case they find any symptoms, they will be required to report to their nearest health facility or call National helpline number (1075)/ State Helpline Number.
– Children under 12 years of age will not have to go through post-arrival random testing. But if they are found to be having symptoms on arrival or during the period of self-monitoring, they will have to undergo testing and treatment.
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Related: COVID Advisory Update: International Passengers Will Be Randomly Tested At The Indian Airports