New York Flight during COVID-19

A New York flight during COVID-19 looked different from what we were used to. There were all kinds of things to keep in mind. Luckily this is no longer the case. In this post, I’ll explain if there are any rules that may apply on your flight to New York and what you should take into account.

Last updated on: May 2025

No Vaccination Requirements

To enter the United States, you no longer need to be vaccinated. Everyone can travel to the United States.

No COVID-19 test before departure

It is no longer necessary to show a negative test result before departure to New York.

No Quarantine on Arrival

There are currently no quarantine obligations in the United States.

Flight and Arrival in New York

Airlines might have some COVID-related guidelines during the flight. The aircraft are also cleaned more often and more thoroughly. The arrival at JFK or Newark Airport is not incredibly different from what you’re used to and wearing a face mask at the airport is optional.

COVID-19 test in New York

If you need to take a corona test in New York, there are dozens of places where you can get tested against payment. You will see tents on the street where you can get tested, like in Times Square, next to Grand Central, or at the 9/11 Memorial.

Most test sites offer both PCR and antigen testing. When you arrive at the tent, you scan a QR code, which you use to register. After registering, the test is administered and you will often receive the result within 12 to 24 hours. With an antigen test, you usually get the result within 15 minutes. If you need a test for your return journey and you see a tent near your hotel, ask a few days in advance if you need to pay for the test and if they can send you the test results by email, so that you can use this as proof at the airport.

In addition to the street test locations, you can also go to CityMD. This is a doctor’s office with many locations in New York. You can also take a PCR test or an antigen test here. They will send the result of the antigen test by email. For the results of the PCR test, you must return to the location to collect it on paper.

Back in Canada

As of October 1st 2022, travelers no longer need to use ArriveCAN or show proof of vaccination when traveling back to Canada.