Travel Announcement: Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

According to new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the COVID-19 Delta variant (B.1.617.2) has become the dominant strain in the United States accounting for more than 51% of new COVID-19 cases in the country. This strain spreads more easily and quickly than other variants. So far, studies suggest that the current authorized vaccines work on the current variants.

Travelers, especially those who are not vaccinated, should continue to follow the current CDC guidance to protect themselves from COVID-19.

Update as of June 30, 2021

Based on recent guidance on national and international travel from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and considering the health and safety for all UC Davis travelers, UC Davis continues to recommend against all non-essential university-sponsored travel both domestically and internationally.

 The COVID-19 situation, including the spread of new or concerning variants, differs from country to country, and even fully vaccinated travelers need to pay close attention to the situation at their destination before traveling.

On July 15, 2021 the University of California finalized the COVID-19 vaccination requirements. This policy states that all World Health Organization (WHO) approved vaccines are accepted by UC Davis. Additional information about the vaccine requirement can be found in the frequently asked questions section of the policy or by visiting the UC Davis Campus Ready website or contacting campusready@ucdavis.edu. Students and scholars with specific vaccination questions should contact covid@shcs.ucdavis.edu.

If you are traveling on university business, you must register your trip. For international travel, you must register three weeks before intended travel dates. If travel is not registered, the traveler may experience a delay or forfeiture of reimbursement of travel expenses, or a delay in the ability of UC Davis to provide support in the event of an emergency.

Guidance for Travel on University Business

Domestic Travel

• UC Davis travelers are advised against all non-essential university-sponsored domestic travel, particularly by air. We encourage finding alternate means of conducting business such as video or web conferencing.
• Note: As of July 16, 2021 domestic travel for university business no longer requires school/college/division appointee approval.

International Travel

Consideration for the definition of essential travel shall include:

• If the travel is for life saving work.
• If the traveler is in jeopardy of not completing research on time.
• If the traveler is conducting critical research or work that can only be performed in-person.
• If the research progress and funding prospects are jeopardized by continued delays.
• If the student will not be able to complete their degree requirement.
• If the traveler will be fully vaccinated 2 weeks before their intended travel date.

Guidance for Travelers Arriving at UC Davis

Domestic Arrivals

• Per CDC Guidance for Fully Vaccinated Travelers
  • Should continue to self-monitor for symptoms.
  • Do not need to quarantine after arrival.
  • Do not need to get tested 1-3 days before travel.
  • Continue to follow UC Davis healthy behaviors.
• Per CDC Guidance for Travelers Who Are Not Vaccinated  
  • Should get tested 1-3 days before travel.
  • Before coming to UC Davis, get tested 3-5 days after travel and self-quarantine for 7 days. Self-quarantine for 10 days if you don’t get tested.
  • Self-monitor for symptoms.
  • Continue to follow UC Davis healthy behaviors.

International Arrivals

• Per CDC Guidance for Fully Vaccinated Travelers
• Per CDC Guidance Travelers Who Are Not Vaccinated  
  • Mandatory test required before flying to the U.S.
  • Should get tested 1-3 days before travel.
  • Before coming to Campus, get tested 3-5 days after travel and self-quarantine for 7 days. Self-quarantine for 10 days if you don’t get tested.
  • Self-monitor for symptoms
  • Continue to follow UC Davis healthy behaviors.

Submitting International Travel Requests

At this time all international travel to CDC “Level 3 COVID High” or “Level 4 COVID Very High” on university business will need approval from the Travel Review Committee.

To submit a request for approval travelers must submit a request by email to travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu no later than three weeks before the desired departure date. This request should include:

• Written approval from your dean or equivalent for your trip, attesting that this travel is essential under the current guidelines travel must be for life saving research, and
• The following information: name, college/school, academic year or academic position, complete itinerary (to include modes of travel, where you will be staying) for your trip, and all risk mitigation planning (health and security precautions being taken while traveling and while working) for your trip.
• Program description with explanation why travel is essential to university business.

All requests will be reviewed by the Travel Security Manager before being submitted to the Travel Review Committee. The Travel Review Committee will review and, based on each member’s expertise, make both mitigation recommendations and a recommendation that travel be approved or disapproved, providing a rationale for that recommendation.

If possible, each member will provide a list of actions travelers would need to take to enable travel. If approved, The Travel Security Manager will re-review each trip two weeks and one week prior to departure to ensure there have been no changes to the medical situation or travel restrictions.

If you have any questions on a request please email travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu.

Process Timeline

Planning for Future International Travel

As the CDC and State Department restrictions are lifted and additional countries lift similar restrictions, travel will move towards a more normal state. The Travel Security Manager will continue to monitor for changes in country and regional statuses related to COVID-19 and any related travel restrictions, and this Global Affairs webpage will be regularly updated. If international travel permissions are needed, the international travel requests will need to follow all steps as described above.

More International Travel Guidelines

• Until the COVID-19 outbreak is no longer a widespread risk to travelers, the Travel Security Manager will continue to monitor for situations that pose risks to travelers.
• The Travel Security Manager will review upcoming trips two weeks before departure and inform travelers of any changes based on new outbreaks of travel restriction changes.
• Travelers should expect that trips may be postponed or cancelled due to changes in restrictions or new outbreaks of COVID-19.
• Travelers should avoid non-refundable travel and lodging arrangements to the maximum extent possible.

Trip Registration

If you are traveling on university business, you must register your trip, which provides real-time updates and additional protections. UC Davis travelers may also choose to register personal trips.

More Information

There is a myriad of contingencies that might affect your ability to travel, so please contact Travel Security Manager A.J. Leeds at travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu or (530) 752-4129 if you have specific concerns or questions.

UC Davis international students and scholars with questions about visa and immigration issues should contact Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) in Global Affairs at siss@ucdavis.edu with questions. Students or faculty with questions specific to study abroad of other global learning programs should contact the Global Learning Hub in Global Affairs at globallearning@ucdavis.edu.

This Global Affairs Q&A is updated regularly with additional information related to international or domestic travel plans, travel insurance, study abroad and global learning programming, and global teaching and learning resources.

On April 2, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced updates to their guidance for national and international travel. The COVID-19 situation, including the spread of new or concerning variants, differs from country to country, and even fully vaccinated travelers need to pay close attention to the situation at their destination before traveling.

If you are traveling on university business, you must register your trip. For international travel, you must register three weeks before intended travel dates. If travel is not registered, the traveler may experience a delay or forfeiture of reimbursement of travel expenses, or a delay in the ability of UC Davis to provide support in the event of an emergency.

In the best interest of the health and safety for all UC Davis travelers, UC Davis continues to recommend against all non-essential travel both domestically and internationally.

Guidance for Travel on University Business

For travel anywhere outside California (both domestic and international)

Travelers who are not fully vaccinated should get tested with a viral test 1-3 days before travel, and get tested 3-5 days upon arrival to their destination. They should stay home and self-quarantine for a full 7 days after travel, even if their test is negative.

Travelers who are not fully vaccinated and don’t get tested should stay home and self-quarantine for 10 days after travel.

Vaccinated asymptomatic travelers returning from a CDC COVID Level 3 or 4 country (which presently includes the U.S.) should quarantine for 5 days with a negative test or 7 days without receiving a negative test.

Asymptomatic health care workers and veterinary services workers returning from outside the U.S. are no longer required to quarantine.

Domestic Travel

UC Davis travelers are advised against all non-essential university-sponsored domestic travel, particularly by air. We encourage finding alternate means of conducting business such as video or web conferencing.

Decision to travel resides with appropriate UC Davis school/college/division appointee.

International Travel

UC Davis travelers are advised against all non-essential university-sponsored international travel, particularly by air. We encourage finding alternate means of conducting business such as video or web conferencing.

Travel to a CDC COVID Level 3 or 4 country is subject to review by submission to travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu as described below.

Travel to a  CDC COVID Levels 1 or 2 country is at discretion of appropriate UC Davis school/college/division appointee.

Consideration for the definition of essential travel shall include:

If the travel is for life saving work.

If the traveler is in jeopardy of not completing research on time.

If the traveler is conducting critical research or work that can only be performed in-person.

If the research progress and funding prospects are jeopardized by continued delays.

If the student will not be able to complete their degree requirement.

If the traveler will be fully vaccinated 2 weeks before their intended travel date.

Submitting International Travel Requests

At this time all international travel to CDC “Level 3 COVID High” or “Level 4 COVID Very High” on university business will need approval from the Travel Review Committee.

To submit a request for approval travelers must submit a request by email to travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu no later than three weeks before the desired departure date. This request should include:

Written approval from your dean or equivalent for your trip, attesting that this travel is essential under the current guidelines travel must be for life saving research, and

The following information: name, college/school, academic year or academic position, complete itinerary (to include modes of travel, where you will be staying) for your trip, and all risk mitigation planning (health and security precautions being taken while traveling and while working) for your trip.

Program description with explanation why travel is essential to university business.

If possible, each member will provide a list of actions travelers would need to take to enable travel. If approved, The Travel Security Manager will re-review each trip two weeks and one week prior to departure to ensure there have been no changes to the medical situation or travel restrictions.

If you have any questions on a request please email travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu.

Planning for Future International Travel

As the CDC and State Department restrictions are lifted and additional countries lift similar restrictions, travel will move towards a more normal state. The Travel Security Manager will continue to monitor for changes in country and regional statuses related to COVID-19 and any related travel restrictions, and this Global Affairs webpage will be regularly updated. If international travel permissions are needed, the international travel requests will need to follow all steps as described above.

More International Travel Guidelines

Until the COVID-19 outbreak is no longer a widespread risk to travelers, the Travel Security Manager will continue to monitor for situations that pose risks to travelers.

The Travel Security Manager will review upcoming trips two weeks before departure and inform travelers of any changes based on new outbreaks of travel restriction changes.

Travelers should expect that trips may be postponed or cancelled due to changes in restrictions or new outbreaks of COVID-19.

Travelers should avoid non-refundable travel and lodging arrangements to the maximum extent possible.

Trip Registration

If you are traveling on university business, you must register your trip, which provides real-time updates and additional protections. UC Davis travelers may also choose to register personal trips.

More Information

There is a myriad of contingencies that might affect your ability to travel, so please contact Travel Security Manager A.J. Leeds at travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu or (530) 752-4129 if you have specific concerns or questions.

UC Davis international students and scholars with questions about visa and immigration issues should contact Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) in Global Affairs at siss@ucdavis.edu with questions. Students or faculty with questions specific to study abroad of other global learning programs should contact the Global Learning Hub in Global Affairs at globallearning@ucdavis.edu.

All requests will be reviewed by the Travel Security Manager before being submitted to the Travel Review Committee. The Travel Review Committee will review and, based on each member’s expertise, make both mitigation recommendations and a recommendation that travel be approved or disapproved, providing a rationale for that recommendation.

On March 12, 2021 the University of California Office of the President released updated travel guidelines for the UC Community. The updated guidelines determined that “Any exceptions to CDC Guidance and the determination of what travel is considered as essential travel are deferred to the campus and medical center locations. Additionally, all international travelers should review the U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories related to their destination(s) prior to making travel plans and ensure that their travel is registered with the UC Travel Insurance Program.”

In the best interest of the health and safety for all UC Davis travelers, all non-essential international travel will continue to be prohibited. Travel to countries rated below “Level 3 COVID High” require College/School leadership review for approval and consideration as essential. Travel to countries rated “Level 3 COVID High” or greater require travel committee review and approval. With the exception of healthcare staffing to meet urgent critical need, all returning travelers from outside the U.S. will be required to self-quarantine for 10 days before returning to work or campus.

Travel review at both the College/School level (under level 3) as well as with the Travel Committee will include consideration for:

If the travel is for life saving work.

If the traveler is in jeopardy of not completing research on time.

If the traveler is conducting critical research or work that can only be performed in-person.

If the research progress and funding prospects are jeopardized by continued delays.

If the student will not be able to complete their degree requirement.

All requests must be reviewed, approved, and registered before international travel. Travelers should register their trips or submit requests to the Travel Review Committee no later than 3 weeks before intended travel dates. If travel is not registered, the traveler may experience a delay or forfeiture of reimbursement of travel expenses, or a delay in the ability of UC Davis to provide support in the event of an emergency.

UC Davis is reminding all members of the campus community to avoid all non-essential travel (including domestic travel). Employees and students who are planning on traveling out of state should plan to self-quarantine for 10 days upon returning, per the state guidelines.

Travel guidance — All members of the campus community should continue to avoid all non-essential travel. Employees and students who are planning on traveling out of state should plan to self-quarantine for 10 days upon returning, per state guidelines.

Testing guidance for students living in the Davis area — While travel is strongly discouraged, if you choose to travel during spring break, you are expected to get tested every three to four days during the two-week period PRIOR to your departure date and AFTER you return. It is critically important for symptom-free students, especially those who have traveled, to get tested regularly. Testing at the ARC will remain available throughout spring break for those who are not traveling.

Continue to wear your face coverings and adhere to all of the public health guidance helping to protect us during the pandemic.

Starting on January 21, 2021, the Biden administration started issuing executive orders related to the COVID-19 pandemic and travel (additional details below). These orders will continue to be monitored by Global Affairs and updates will be provided on this webpage. The current orders do not impact the current travel guidance from UC Davis.

UC Davis is reminding all members of the campus community to avoid all non-essential travel. Employees and students who are planning on traveling out of state should plan to self-quarantine for 10 days upon returning, per the state guidelines. Per university guidance, all non-essential university international travel is prohibited and all travelers returning from outside the U.S. will be required to self-quarantine for 10 days before returning to work or campus.

On January 25, 2021, President Joseph R. Biden Jr. issued a Presidential Proclamation on the Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Non-Immigrants of Certain Additional Persons Who Pose a Risk of Transmitting Coronavirus Disease. The proclamation states “It is the policy of my Administration to implement science-based public health measures, across all areas of the Federal Government, to prevent further spread of the disease.”

It restricts and suspends certain entry into the United States, including:

“The entry into the United States, as immigrants or nonimmigrants, of noncitizens who were physically present within the Schengen Area, the United Kingdom (excluding overseas territories outside of Europe), the Republic of Ireland, and the Federative Republic of Brazil during the 14-day period preceding their entry or attempted entry into the United States, is hereby suspended and limited subject to section 2 of this proclamation.

The entry into the United States, as immigrants or nonimmigrants, of noncitizens who were physically present within the Republic of South Africa during the 14-day period preceding their entry or attempted entry into the United States, is hereby suspended and limited subject to section 2 of this proclamation.” Read the proclamation for the full details.

On January 21, 2021, President Joseph R. Biden Jr. issued a Presidential Executive Order on Promoting COVID-19 Safety in Domestic and International Travel. The executive order includes requiring mask-wearing on certain domestic modes of transportation, including airports, commercial aircraft, trains, public maritime vessels, intercity bus services, and all forms of public transportation as defined in section 5302 of title 49, United States code. It also states travelers entering the United States will be “required to produce proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test prior to entry; and required to comply with other applicable CDC guidelines concerning international travel, including recommended periods of self-quarantine or self-isolation after entering the United States.”

On January 6, 2021 the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) issued an update to their public health guidance from November 13, 2020 (the text of which is below).

“The incidence of COVID-19 is increasing in many states and countries, even as California continues to grapple with its own surge of COVID-19 cases.  Persons arriving in California from other states or Californians returning from other states or countries could introduce new sources of infection (potentially including new strains of the SARS-CoV-2 virus) to California.  Intra-state travel, likewise threatens to exacerbate community spread within California—particularly because travel itself (especially the use of shared conveyances in air, bus, or rail travel) can increase a person’s chance of spreading and getting COVID-19.  Postponing travel and staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.

Amid the current COVID-19 surge, it is imperative that California take steps necessary to curb the spread of COVID-19 and contain new sources of infection.

Non-Essential Travel

1. Except in connection with essential travel, Californians should avoid non-essential travel to any part of California more than 120 miles from one’s place of residence, or to other states or countries. Avoiding travel reduces the risk of virus transmission, including by reducing the risk that new sources of infection and, potentially, new virus strains will be introduced to California.

2. Non-essential travelers from other states or countries are strongly discouraged from entering California, and should adhere to the quarantine procedures.

Quarantine Post-Travel

3. All persons arriving in or returning to California from other states or countries, should self-quarantine for 10 days after arrival, except as necessary to meet urgent critical healthcare staffing needs or to otherwise engage in emergency response (veterinary services is included in the healthcare staffing definition). Additionally, this recommendation does not apply to individuals who routinely cross state or country borders for essential travel.”

UC Davis is reminding all members of the campus community to avoid all non-essential travel. Employees and students who are planning on traveling out of state should plan to self-quarantine for 10 days upon returning, per the state guidelines.

Per university guidance, all non-essential university international travel is prohibited and all travelers returning from outside the U.S. will be required to self-quarantine for 10 days before returning to work or campus.

The current California Department of Public Health travel advisory states the following.

“The incidence of COVID-19 is increasing in many states and countries. Persons arriving in California from other states or Californians returning from other states or countries could increase the risk of COVID-19 spread. In addition, travel itself can be a risk for exposure to COVID-19, particularly travel through shared conveyance such as air, bus or rail travel.

“Travel Advisory for Non-Essential Travel

1. Persons arriving in California from other states or countries, including returning California residents, should practice self-quarantine for 14 days after arrival. These persons should limit their interactions to their immediate household. This recommendation does not apply to individuals who cross state or country borders for essential travel.

2. Californians are encouraged to stay home or in their region and avoid non-essential travel to other states or countries. Avoiding travel can reduce the risk of virus transmission and bringing the virus back to California.”

UC Davis is reminding all members of the campus community to avoid all non-essential travel. Employees and students who are planning on traveling out of state over the holiday breaks should plan to self-quarantine for 14 days upon returning, per the state guidelines. For students returning to campus from travel over winter break, please see the Campus Ready website for quarantine and isolation directives.

Per UC guidance, all non-essential university international travel is prohibited and all travelers returning from outside the U.S. will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days before returning to work or campus.

Under the current conditions all international travel plans and itineraries must be submitted to the UC Davis Travel Review Committee for approval. International travel will only be approved if it is related to life saving research. The Travel Review Committee is comprised of subject matter experts from across campus who will review requests and determine if the trip can proceed.

Holiday Travel Advisory

On Nov. 13, 2020 the California Department of Public Health released the following travel advisory.

“The incidence of COVID-19 is increasing in many states and countries. Persons arriving in California from other states or Californians returning from other states or countries could increase the risk of COVID-19 spread. In addition, travel itself can be a risk for exposure to COVID-19, particularly travel through shared conveyance such as air, bus or rail travel.

“Travel Advisory for Non-Essential Travel

Persons arriving in California from other states or countries, including returning California residents, should practice self-quarantine for 14 days after arrival. These persons should limit their interactions to their immediate household. This recommendation does not apply to individuals who cross state or country borders for essential travel.

Californians are encouraged to stay home or in their region and avoid non-essential travel to other states or countries. Avoiding travel can reduce the risk of virus transmission and bringing the virus back to California.”

UC Davis is reminding all members of the campus community to avoid all non-essential travel. Employees and students who are planning on traveling out of state over the holiday breaks should plan to self-quarantine for 14 days upon returning, per the state guidelines.

Per UC guidance, all non-essential university international travel is prohibited and all travelers returning from outside the U.S. will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days before returning to work or campus.

What does self-quarantine mean for employees? If you regularly work on campus and choose to travel out of state during a holiday break, you are encouraged to prepare in advance to self-quarantine upon your return.

Do you have work responsibilities or tasks that can be completed from home? Discuss with your supervisor in advance how to complete your job functions from home for the quarantine period, if it will extend beyond your holiday leave. Find more information about remote work resources and COVID-19 leaves on the HR website.

All members of the university community are also reminded that starting Dec. 1, 2020, students and employees will need to participate in weekly COVID-19 testing as part of the campus testing and screening program before being able to access any campus facility. Additional information can be found at the Campus Ready website.

On November 5, UC Davis Student Affairs sent this email to students with important updates, including information related to travel during Thanksgiving break, winter break, and return for winter quarter, along with information related to COVID-19 testing guidance for the break and for the start of winter quarter. For winter quarter information specific to international students and scholars, please visit this Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) announcement.

For general travel guidance, please see the below Fall Travel Advisory.

UC Davis Fall Travel Advisory

As we return to campus it is important to remember that, under current UC guidance, all non-essential university international travel is prohibited. In addition, domestic travel, especially by plane, is not recommended by the university until the COVID-19 outbreak has been mitigated. For individuals returning from outside the U.S. UC guidance requires individuals to quarantine for 14 days before returning to work or campus.  

Protocols are in place, managed by the Travel Security Manager in accordance to UC Policy and advised by recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Department of State, to accommodate requests for international travel. Under the current conditions all international travel plans and itineraries must be submitted to the UC Davis Travel Review Committee for approval. International travel will only be approved if it is related to life saving research. The Travel Review Committee is comprised of subject matter experts from across campus who will review requests and determine if the trip can proceed.

Submitting International Travel Requests

Until such time when the global travel advisories are rescinded by the CDC and U.S. State Department (currently CDC Level 3 and State Department Level 4) all international travel on university business will need the approval from the Travel Review Committee.

To submit a request for approval travelers must submit a request by email to TravelSecurity@UCDavis.edu no later than three weeks before the desired departure date. This request should include: Written approval from your dean or equivalent for your trip, attesting that this travel is essential under the current guidelines travel must be for life saving research, and the following information: name, college/school, academic year or academic position, complete itinerary (to include modes of travel, where you will be staying) for your trip, and all risk mitigation planning (health and security precautions being taken while traveling and while working) for your trip. Program description with explanation why travel is essential to university business.

All requests will be reviewed by the Travel Security Manager before being submitted to the Travel Review Committee. The Travel Review Committee will review and, based on each member’s expertise, make both mitigation recommendations and a recommendation that travel be approved or disapproved, providing a rationale for that recommendation.

If possible, each member will provide a list of actions travelers would need to take to enable travel. If approved, The Travel Security Manager will re-review each trip two weeks and one week prior to departure to ensure there have been no changes to the medical situation or travel restrictions.

If you have any questions on a request please email travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu.

Planning for Future International Travel

As the CDC and State Department restrictions are lifted and additional countries lift similar restrictions, travel will move towards a more normal state. The Travel Security Manager will continue to monitor for changes in country and regional statuses related to COVID-19 and any related travel restrictions, and this Global Affairs webpage will be regularly updated. If international travel permissions are needed, the international travel requests will need to follow all steps as described above.

More International Travel Guidelines

Until the COVID-19 outbreak is no longer a widespread risk to travelers, the Travel Security Manager will continue to monitor for situations that pose risks to travelers.

The Travel Security Manager will review upcoming trips two weeks before departure and inform travelers of any changes based on new outbreaks of travel restriction changes.

Travelers should expect that trips may be postponed or cancelled due to changes in restrictions or new outbreaks of COVID-19.

Travelers should avoid non-refundable travel and lodging arrangements to the maximum extent possible.

Trip Registration

If you are traveling on university business, you must register your trip, which provides real-time updates and additional protections. UC Davis travelers may also choose to register personal trips.

More Information

There is a myriad of contingencies that might affect your ability to travel, so please contact Travel Security Manager A.J. Leeds at travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu or (530) 752-4129 if you have specific concerns or questions.

UC Davis international students and scholars should contact Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) in Global Affairs at siss@ucdavis.edu with questions. Students or faculty with questions specific to study abroad of other global learning programs should contact the Global Learning Hub in Global Affairs at globallearning@ucdavis.edu.

This Global Affairs Q&A is updated regularly with additional information related to international or domestic travel plans, travel insurance, study abroad and global learning programming, and global teaching and learning resources.

On August 6, in close coordination with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Department of State lifted the Global Level 4 Health Advisory.  The Global Advisory, initially put in place on March 19, advised U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19. With health and safety conditions improving in some countries and potentially deteriorating in others, the U.S. Department of State is returning to the previous system of country-specific levels of travel advice. The U.S. Department of State continues to recommend U.S. citizens exercise caution when traveling abroad due to the unpredictable nature of the pandemic. Currently, all international travel on university business is still subject to review by the UC Davis Travel Review Committee.

 Per the August 6 guidance from the UC Office of the President, and for the wellbeing and safety of those who must travel for university business, travelers must register their travel plans (travel booked via AggieTravel/Connexxus is automatically registered). Registration is an important step in reducing risks during travel while keeping our community safe, especially in environments with heightened health risks such as COVID-19. For those considering domestic travel the CDC U.S. travel guidance recommends staying home as the best way to protect from getting sick and provides additional guidelines for those who are considering traveling within the U.S. Those traveling for work domestically should take appropriate precautions while traveling and upon their return to work.

On July 10, 2020, the U.S. State Department announced that certain travelers from Schengen area countries could resume traveling to the United States effective July 15, 2020.  Those traveling as students (F1 and M1), researchers (certain J1 programs), investors (E2) or business travel (B1) may now qualify for a national interest exception (NIE) to President Trump’s March 11 Presidential Proclamation suspending routine travel from Europe to the U.S.

For travelers seeking information about country specific travel restrictions, related to COVID-19, the U.S. State Department maintains a list on their website. This details entry and exit requirements as well as other travel restrictions in place for each country.

UC Davis Summer Travel Advisory

As COVID-19 related travel restrictions begin to evolve, this updated advisory provides guidance for UC Davis faculty and staff travelers.

Under current UC guidance, all non-essential university international travel is prohibited. In addition, domestic travel, especially by plane, is not recommended by the university until the COVID-19 outbreak has been mitigated.

Protocols are in place, managed by the Travel Security Manager in accordance to UC Policy and advised by recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Department of State, to accommodate requests for international travel. Under the current conditions all international travel plans and itineraries must be submitted to the UC Davis Travel Review Committee for approval. International travel will only be approved if it is related to life saving research. The Travel Review Committee is comprised of subject matter experts from across campus who will review requests and determine if the trip can proceed.

Submitting International Travel Requests

Until such time when the global travel advisories are rescinded by the CDC and U.S. State Department (currently CDC Level 3 and State Department Level 4) all international travel on university business will need the approval from the Travel Review Committee.

To submit a request for approval travelers must submit a request by email to TravelSecurity@UCDavis.edu no later than three weeks before the desired departure date. This request should include: Written approval from your dean or equivalent for your trip, attesting that this travel is essential under the current guidelines travel must be for life saving research, and the following information: name, college/school, academic year or academic position, complete itinerary (to include modes of travel, where you will be staying) for your trip, and all risk mitigation planning (health and security precautions being taken while traveling and while working) for your trip. Program description with explanation why travel is essential to university business.

All requests will be reviewed by the Travel Security Manager before being submitted to the Travel Review Committee. The Travel Review Committee will review and, based on each member’s expertise, make both mitigation recommendations and a recommendation that travel be approved or disapproved, providing a rationale for that recommendation.

If possible, each member will provide a list of actions travelers would need to take to enable travel. If approved, The Travel Security Manager will re-review each trip two weeks and one week prior to departure to ensure there have been no changes to the medical situation or travel restrictions.

If you have any questions on a request please email travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu.

Planning for Future International Travel

As the CDC and State Department restrictions are lifted and additional countries lift similar restrictions, travel will move towards a more normal state. The Travel Security Manager will continue to monitor for changes in country and regional statuses related to COVID-19 and any related travel restrictions, and this Global Affairs webpage will be regularly updated. If international travel permissions are needed, the international travel requests will need to follow all steps as described above.

More International Travel Guidelines

Until the COVID-19 outbreak is no longer a widespread risk to travelers, the Travel Security Manager will continue to monitor for situations that pose risks to travelers.

The Travel Security Manager will review upcoming trips two weeks before departure and inform travelers of any changes based on new outbreaks of travel restriction changes.

Travelers should expect that trips may be postponed or cancelled due to changes in restrictions or new outbreaks of COVID-19.

Travelers should avoid non-refundable travel and lodging arrangements to the maximum extent possible.

Trip Registration

If you are traveling on university business, you must register your trip, which provides real-time updates and additional protections. UC Davis travelers may also choose to register personal trips.

More Information

There is a myriad of contingencies that might affect your ability to travel, so please contact Travel Security Manager A.J. Leeds at travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu or (530) 752-4129 if you have specific concerns or questions.

UC Davis international students and scholars should contact Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) in Global Affairs at siss@ucdavis.edu with questions. Students or faculty with questions specific to study abroad of other global learning programs should contact the Global Learning Hub in Global Affairs at globallearning@ucdavis.edu.

This Global Affairs Q&A is updated regularly with additional information related to international or domestic travel plans, travel insurance, study abroad and global learning programming, and global teaching and learning resources.

On May 25 the White House announced that effective May 27 all non U.S. citizens who have traveled to Brazil within the last 14 days will be denied entry to the U.S. This will not apply to noncitizens: who are permanent residents, the spouse of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, the parent or sibling of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. For more information specific to UC Davis international students and scholars visit our Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) website or contact SISS at siss@ucdavis.edu.

On May 25 the White House announced that effective May 27 all non U.S. citizens who have traveled to Brazil within the last 14 days will be denied entry to the U.S. This will not apply to noncitizens: who are permanent residents, the spouse of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, the parent or sibling of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. For more information specific to UC Davis international students and scholars visit our Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) website or contact SISS at siss@ucdavis.edu.

Update as of 4:30 p.m. PST on April 10

The U.S. State Department has issued a Global Level 4 Health Advisory – Do Not Travel, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Global Warning – Level 3 Avoid Nonessential Travel. Based on these warnings and guidance from the UC Office of the President all UC Davis travelers must avoid all non-essential international travel, to any country. UC Davis travelers are also advised against all non-essential university-sponsored domestic travel, particularly by air.

For UC Davis-Sponsored International Travel

UC Davis travelers must avoid all non-essential international travel, to any country.

Per UC guidance, anyone returning from a CDC Level 3 country must self-isolate for 14 days before returning to work or campus. Based on current CDC warning levels, this means any international travel requires 14 days of self-isolation before returning to work or campus.

An exception to the above: per recent UC guidance, asymptomatic health care workers returning from Level 3 countries or from U.S. states and other domestic locations with CDC travel restrictions related to COVID-19 no longer require a 14-day quarantine.

Under UC guidance and the UC Davis Travel Policy, all countries currently designated with a CDC Warning – Level 3 or a CDC Alert – Level 2 due to COVID-19 are considered “Very High Threat” destinations. For the time being this means that all international travel is subject to review by the UC Davis Travel Advisory Committee. 

UC Davis travelers planning international travel must email a detailed itinerary of their proposed travel, along with information on their risk mitigation procedures, to travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu three weeks prior to the planned departure date.

Additional information on this policy can be found on the Global Affairs website.

Based on UC guidance restricting travel, the CDC’s recent Global Level 3 Travel Notice, additional guidance from the U.S. State Department and World Health Organization (WHO), and assessments from campus leadership, workgroups, and subject matter experts, UC Davis has suspended all international and U.S.-based Study Abroad programs through summer and has suspended Fall 2020 Quarter Abroad programs.

Read the full update for more information, next steps and resources for students: Study Abroad Program Updates and Resources Related to Coronavirus

For Personal International Travel

UC Davis travelers are strongly advised against personal travel out of the U.S.

Per UC guidance, anyone returning from a CDC Level 3 country must self-isolate for 14 days before returning to work or campus. Based on current CDC warning levels, that means any international travel requires a 14 day self-isolation before returning to work or campus.

The only exception to the above: per recent UC guidance, asymptomatic health care workers returning from Level 3 countries or from US states and other domestic locations with CDC travel restrictions related to COVID-19 no longer require a 14-day quarantine.

Changing global regulatory circumstances may subject you to air or governmental restrictions affecting your return.

For more information specific to international students and scholars visit our Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) website or contact SISS at siss@ucdavis.edu.

 For UC Davis-Sponsored U.S. Domestic Travel

UC Davis travelers are advised against all non-essential university-sponsored domestic travel, particularly by air. We encourage finding alternate means of conducting business such as video or web conferencing.

For Personal U.S. Domestic Travel

Faculty, staff, and students are cautioned to reconsider travel and should consider a variety of factors including travel restrictions, university policies, registration and approvals for high risk locations, and their own health risks before making plans for personal domestic travel, particularly by air.

There are a myriad of contingencies that might affect your ability to travel, so please contact our Travel Security Manager, A.J. Leeds, at travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu or (530) 752-4129 if you have specific concerns or questions. UC Davis international students and scholars should contact Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) in Global Affairs at siss@ucdavis.edu with questions.

If you are traveling internationally on university business, you must register your trip, which provides real-time updates and additional protections. UC Davis travelers may also choose to register personal trips.

This Global Affairs Q&A has been updated with additional information related to international or domestic travel plans, travel insurance, study abroad and global learning programming, and global teaching and learning resources.

On March 19, the U.S. State Department announced a Global Level 4 Health Advisory – Do Not Travel. The Department of State “advises U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19. In countries where commercial departure options remain available, U.S. citizens who live in the U.S. should arrange for immediate return to the U.S., unless they are prepared to remain abroad for an indefinite period. U.S. citizens who live abroad should avoid all international travel. Many countries are experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks and implementing travel restrictions and mandatory quarantines, closing borders, and prohibiting non-citizens from entry with little advance notice…If you choose to travel internationally, your travel plans may be severely disrupted, and you may be forced to remain outside of the United States for an indefinite timeframe.”

Other than returning to the U.S., UC Davis travelers are advised to avoid all international travel. If you are already outside of the U.S. you should consider returning immediately using whatever commercial means are available.  Due to the fluidity of the situation travelers should check with both the airlines and the country they are traveling to ensure there are no restrictions on travel.  There are a myriad of contingencies that might affect your ability to travel, so please contact our Travel Security Manager, A.J. Leeds, at travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu or (530) 752-4129 if you have specific concerns or questions.  UC Davis international students and scholars outside of the U.S. should contact Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) in Global Affairs at siss@ucdavis.edu with questions.

On March 19, the U.S. State Department announced a Global Level 4 Health Advisory – Do Not Travel. The Department of State “advises U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19. In countries where commercial departure options remain available, U.S. citizens who live in the U.S. should arrange for immediate return to the U.S., unless they are prepared to remain abroad for an indefinite period. U.S. citizens who live abroad should avoid all international travel. Many countries are experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks and implementing travel restrictions and mandatory quarantines, closing borders, and prohibiting non-citizens from entry with little advance notice…If you choose to travel internationally, your travel plans may be severely disrupted, and you may be forced to remain outside of the United States for an indefinite timeframe.”

Other than returning to the U.S., UC Davis travelers are advised to avoid all international travel. If you are already outside of the U.S. you should consider returning immediately using whatever commercial means are available.  Due to the fluidity of the situation travelers should check with both the airlines and the country they are traveling to ensure there are no restrictions on travel.  There are a myriad of contingencies that might affect your ability to travel, so please contact our Travel Security Manager, A.J. Leeds, at travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu or (530) 752-4129 if you have specific concerns or questions.  UC Davis international students and scholars outside of the U.S. should contact Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) in Global Affairs at siss@ucdavis.edu with questions.

On March 15, The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) added a Level 3, Avoid Nonessential Travel Warning for the United Kingdom and Ireland. Due to continued changes in travel restrictions those considering travel are reminded to check for local restrictions before travel planning and to follow the continued international travel guidance listed below.

For UC Davis-Sponsored International Travel

UC Davis travelers must avoid all non-essential international travel, to any country.

Per UC guidance, anyone returning from a CDC Level 3 country must self-isolate for 14 days before returning to work or campus.

Under UC guidance and the UC Davis Travel Policy, all countries currently designated with a CDC Warning – Level 3 or a CDC Alert – Level 2 due to COVID-19 are considered “Very High Threat” destinations. For the time being this means that all international travel is subject to review by the UC Davis Travel Advisory Committee. 

UC Davis travelers planning international travel must email a detailed itinerary of their proposed travel, along with information on their risk mitigation procedures, to travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu three weeks prior to the planned departure date.

Additional information on this policy can be found on the Global Affairs website.

Based on UC guidance restricting travel, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s recent Global Level 2 Travel Notice, additional guidance from the U.S. State Department, and World Health Organization (WHO), and assessments from campus leadership, workgroups, and subject matter experts, UC Davis has decided to suspend all international and U.S.-based Study Abroad programs through summer (including Spring Seminars Abroad, Spring Quarter Abroad, Summer Abroad, and Summer Abroad Internships).

Read the full update for more information, next steps and resources for students: Study Abroad Program Updates and Resources Related to Coronavirus

For Personal International Travel

UC Davis travelers are strongly advised against personal travel out of the U.S.

Per UC guidance, anyone returning from a CDC Level 3 country must self-isolate for 14 days before returning to work or campus.

Changing global regulatory circumstances may subject you to air or governmental restrictions affecting your return.

For more information specific to international students and scholars visit our Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) website or contact SISS at siss@ucdavis.edu.

For UC Davis-Sponsored U.S. Domestic Travel

UC Davis travelers are advised against all non-essential university-sponsored domestic travel, particularly by air.

We encourage finding alternate means of conducting business such as video or web conferencing.

For Personal U.S. Domestic Travel

Faculty, staff, and students are cautioned to reconsider travel and should consider a variety of factors including travel restrictions, university policies, registration and approvals for high risk locations, and their own health risks before making plans for personal domestic travel, particularly by air.

If you are traveling internationally on university business, you must register your trip, which provides real-time updates and additional protections. UC Davis travelers may also choose to register personal trips.

This Global Affairs Q&A has been updated with additional information related to international or domestic travel plans, travel insurance, reimbursement, and spring break travel.

On March 11, President Trump signed a Presidential Proclamation, “which suspends the entry of most foreign nationals who have been in certain European countries at any point during the 14 days prior to their scheduled arrival to the United States. This does not apply to legal permanent residents, (generally) immediate family members of U.S. citizens, and other individuals who are identified in the proclamation.” This will go into effect at midnight March 13, 2020 and will remain in effect for at least 30 days.

On March 11, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) added a Level 3, Avoid Nonessential Travel Warning for specified European countries, and a Global Level 2, Practice Enhanced Caution.

Per UC guidance, UC Davis travelers are still to avoid all nonessential travel to China, Iran, Italy, Japan and South Korea — all tagged with Level 3 (widespread sustained transmission) or Level 2 (sustained community transmission) Travel Health Notices by the CDC. Travelers should also avoid layover travel that passes through any of these countries. Anyone returning from a Level 3 country must self-isolate for 14 days before returning to work.

Per New UC Davis Directives on March 10, UC Davis faculty and staff are now cautioned to reconsider all international and domestic travel, whether personal or university-related. Travelers should consider a variety of factors including travel restrictions, university policies, registration and approvals for high risk locations, and their own health risks.

If you are traveling on university business, you must register your trip, which provides real-time updates and additional protections. UC Davis travelers may also choose to register personal trips.

This Global Affairs Q&A has been updated with additional information related to international or domestic travel plans, travel insurance, reimbursement, and spring break travel. For more information specific to international students and scholars visit our SISS website, and for more information specific to Study Abroad visit our Global Learning Hub website.

UC President Janet Napolitano, in a statement released on March 5, 2020, wrote that “Given the rapidly changing conditions, and out of an abundance of caution, I am expanding my Feb. 26 directive to avoid all non-essential, University-related travel to CDC Level 2 (sustained community transmission) Travel Health Notice countries, in addition to Level 3 (widespread sustained transmission) –Travel Health Notice countries.”

“Further, individuals on our campuses with a recent travel history from a CDC Level 3 country must self-isolate for 14 days from the time they left the Level 3 country and practice social distancing. CDC travel guidance for Level 3 countries applies to all travelers returning from a Level 3 country for any purpose, including personal travel. All those traveling abroad for University-related purposes must register their international travel with the UC International Travel Registry.”

University travelers are now to avoid all nonessential travel to China, Iran, Italy, Japan and South Korea. Travelers should also avoid layover travel that passes through any of these countries.  Additionally, university employees are strongly advised to avoid personal travel to these jurisdictions as well, given the rapidly changing, and increasingly restrictive actions being required of returning travelers.

Under UC guidance and the UC Davis Travel Policy, China, Italy, Japan and South Korea will temporarily be considered “Very High Threat” destinations. Iran remains a “Very High Threat” destination both for COVID-19 and other considerations.  Additionally, any countries in the future that are designated with a CDC Warning – Level 3 or a CDC Alert – Level 2 due to COVID-19 will also be considered “Very High Threat” destinations, with travel to these destinations subject to review by the UC Davis Travel Advisory Committee. UC Davis travelers planning travel to China, Iran, Italy Japan, or South Korea must email a detailed itinerary of their proposed travel, along with information on their risk mitigation procedures, to travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu no less than three weeks prior to the planned departure date. Additional information on this policy can be found on the Global Affairs website.

Since the situation with COVID-19 remains dynamic, UC Davis travelers are reminded to check international travel advisory updates from Global Affairs, and to register their trips, which is required per UC Davis policy and provides customized, real-time travel updates and alerts. The UC Davis Travel Security team uses this information to identify impacted travelers and communicate updates before and during trips. This information allows travelers to make educated decisions about travel and the possible risks involved. In addition, per UC Davis policy, failure to register international travel may result in: delays or forfeiture of reimbursement of travel expenses; and delays in the ability of the university to provide support in the event of an emergency.

We strongly recommend travelers review this web announcement and the information provided by WorldAware, UC’s travel and risk management partner, before traveling or planning travel to avoid potential complications.

Novel Coronavirus Airline Restrictions by Country

Novel Coronavirus Airline Restrictions by Airline

More Information

Study Abroad Program Information and Resources Related to Coronavirus

Global Affairs Q&A Related to Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Update as of 3:00 p.m. PST on Feb. 29, 2020

On February 28, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) raised its notice level to Warning – Level 3, Avoid All Nonessential Travel to Iran and Italy due to the COVID-19 coronavirus. 

On February 28, the U.S. State Department issued a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory for Italy. On February 26, the U.S. State Department also issued a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory for Mongolia. This advisory was issued due to travel and transport restrictions related to Mongolia’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak in China.

University travelers are now to avoid all nonessential travel to China, Iran, Italy, and South Korea. Travelers should also avoid layover travel that passes through any of these countries.

Under UC guidance and the UC Davis Travel Policy, China, Italy, and South Korea will temporarily be considered “Very High Threat” destinations. Iran remains a “Very High Threat” destination both for COVID-19 and other considerations.  Additionally, any countries in the future that are designated with a CDC Warning – Level 3 due to COVID-19 will also be considered “Very High Threat” destinations, with travel to these destinations subject to review by the UC Davis Travel Advisory Committee. UC Davis travelers planning travel to China, Iran, Italy or South Korea must email a detailed itinerary of their proposed travel, along with information on their risk mitigation procedures, to travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu no less than three weeks prior to the planned departure date. Additional information on this policy can be found on the Global Affairs website.

The situation with COVID-19 remains fluid, and campus policies on travel to countries affected by COVID-19 will reflect the assessments of the CDC, the World Health Organization, and the U.S. Department of State.  Given this fluidity, we strongly recommend travelers review this web announcement and the information provided by WorldAware, UC’s travel and risk management partner, before traveling or planning travel to avoid potential complications.

Novel Coronavirus Airline Restrictions by Country

Novel Coronavirus Airline Restrictions by Airline

Update as of 7:00 a.m. PST on Feb. 27, 2020

UC President Janet Napolitano, in a statement released on February 26, wrote that “The health and well-being of our community remains our No. 1 priority. To that end, I think it is necessary for us to take all of the precautions necessary in this fluid situation, erring on the side of safety. Expanding on the directive I issued in late January, I am further directing the UC community to temporarily avoid all non-essential, University-related travel to countries that are designated with a CDC Warning – Level 3 Travel Notice.  This currently includes South Korea as well as China (excluding the Special Administrative Regions of Macau and Hong Kong).”

Under the UC Davis Travel Policy, China and South Korea will temporarily be considered “Very High Threat” destinations. Additionally, any countries in the future that are designated with a CDC Warning – Level 3 due to COVID-19 infections will also be considered “Very High Threat” destinations, and travel to these destinations are subject to review by the Travel Advisory Committee. UC Davis travelers planning travel to China or South Korea must email a detailed itinerary of their proposed travel, along with information on their risk mitigation procedures, to travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu no less than three weeks prior to the planned departure date. Additional information on this policy can be found on the Global Affairs website.

The UC Davis Travel Security Manager has contacted all registered travelers and confirmed that any individual who had been planning travel to China or South Korea has cancelled those plans. These cancellations should remain in place until the guidance changes.  For any needed advice or direction or to discuss proposed trips, please contact our travel security team at travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu.

UC Davis travelers are reminded to register their trips, which is required per UC Davis policy and provides customized, real-time travel updates and alerts.

Update as of 5:00 p.m. PST on Feb. 25, 2020

On February 24 the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Warning – Level 3, Avoid All Nonessential Travel notice for South Korea. University travelers are advised to avoid all nonessential travel to South Korea. Travelers should also avoid layover travel that passes through South Korea.

The CDC also issued an Alert – Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions Travel Notice for Iran, Italy and Japan on February 24. Older adults and those with chronic medical conditions may be at higher risk; individuals in these groups should discuss travel with a healthcare provider and consider postponing nonessential travel.

The CDC has issued a Watch – Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions Travel Notice for Hong Kong.  At this time, CDC does notrecommend canceling or postponing travel to Hong Kong. Travelers to Hong Kong should avoid contact with sick people and clean their hands often by washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with 60%–95% alcohol.

University travelers are still advised to avoid all travel to China, with any proposed travel still requiring advance review and approval by the campus Travel Advisory Committee. Travelers should also avoid layover travel that passes through China.Travelers should take increased precautions outlined by the CDC if they plan to travel to any country with a current Travel Alert.

The situation with COVID-19 remains fluid, and campus policies on travel to countries affected by COVID-19 will reflect the assessments of the CDC, the World Health Organization, and the U.S. Department of State.  Given this fluidity, we strongly recommend travelers review this web announcement and the information provided by WorldAware, UC’s travel and risk management partner, before traveling or planning travel to avoid potential complications.

Novel Coronavirus Airline Restrictions by Country

Novel Coronavirus Airline Restrictions by Airline

Update as of 5:00 p.m. PST on Feb. 13, 2020

FAQs for travel during the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) outbreak

Can I travel to China, Hong Kong or Taiwan?

The university recommends against all travel to China. Travel to Hong Kong and Taiwan is not currently restricted but travelers are advised to take additional precautions while traveling. Travelers should monitor the U.S. State Department and Center for Disease Control (CDC) for updates and changes.

 If you are part of a university program that is considering travel to China, you can file for an exemption by submitting your request and itinerary to TravelSecurity@ucdavis.edu. The request will be considered in accordance with the UC Davis Travel Policy by the Travel Review Committee.

When will restriction on travel be lifted?

The university bases its guidance on the travel advisories published by the U.S. State Department and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Once these agencies recommend that travel to China may resume, university recommendations will be updated.

Should I reschedule travel to other areas in Asia?

At this time the university is not recommending against travel to other countries reporting cases of 2019-nCoV. The Travel Security team will continue to monitor the situation and if you have any travel concerns or questions they can be directed to TravelSecurity@ucdavis.edu.

I am traveling on a Chinese Passport.  Will I be granted entry to foreign countries?

Restrictions have been placed on travelers who have traveled in China in the last 14 days and these travelers may be denied entry. It is important to note that countries have also changed the visa requirements for Chinese Passport holders, and procedures are subject to change without notice. Travelers should confirm in advance that their visa documents are valid and ensure no restrictions on travel have been put in place.

Where can I find information on travel restrictions?

WorldAware, UC’s travel and risk management partner, is providing information on travel restrictions. 

Novel Coronavirus Airline Restrictions by Country

Novel Coronavirus Airline Restrictions by AirlineUpdate as of 5:00 p.m. PST on Feb. 3:

The United States Department of State has announced that Mission China, which includes the U.S. Embassy and all consulates, will be closed to the public from February 3-7 in accordance with Chinese government guidance. Emergency U.S. citizen services will be available. U.S. citizens can sign up for notifications for Americans traveling in China.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced they will begin enforcing restrictions for all passenger flights to the U.S. carrying individuals who have recently traveled from China starting on February 2. All U.S. citizens who have traveled in China within 14 days of their arrival will be routed to one of seven designated airports, where the U.S. Government has enhanced public health resources in order to implement enhanced screening procedures. U.S. citizens who have been in Hubei province within 14 days of their return will be subject to up to 14 days of mandatory quarantine. Foreign nationals who have traveled in China within 14 days of their arrival, will be denied entry into the U.S.

Update as of 11:00 a.m. PST on Jan. 31, 2020

UC President Janet Napolitano, in a statement released on January 30, wrote that “…UC is closely monitoring the dynamic developments regarding the 2019 Novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV).  Today, the United Nations’ World Health Organization declared a “global health emergency…The health and safety of our UC community is our No. 1 priority.” 

On January 30, 2020 the U.S. State Department increased the Travel Warning for China to Level 4: Do Not Travel. University travelers are advised to avoid all travel to China. Travelers should also avoid layover travel that passes through China.

Under UC Davis Travel Policy China will temporarily be considered a “Very High Threat” destination. Travel to high-risk destinations are subject to review by the Travel Advisory Committee. Faculty, Staff, and postdocs planning travel to China must e-mail a detailed itinerary of their proposed travel, along with information on their risk mitigation procedures, to travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu no less than three weeks prior to the planned departure date. Additional information on this policy can be found on the Global Affairs website.

The UC Davis Travel Security Manager has contacted all registered travelers and confirmed that any school, unit, or individual which had been planning academic or other travel to China has cancelled those plans. These cancellations should remain in place until the guidance changes.  For any needed advice or direction, please contact our travel security team at travelsecurity@ucdavis.edu to discuss any proposed trips.

UC Davis travelers are reminded to register their trips, which is required per UC Davis policy and provides customized, real-time travel updates and alerts.

Update as of 4:00 p.m. PST on Jan. 30, 2020

On January 30, 2020 the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the 2019-nCoV acute respiratory disease a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

On January 29, 2020 the U.S. Department of State authorized the departure of family members and all non-emergency U.S. government employees at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing and the Consulates General in Chengdu, Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Shenyang.

British Airways, United Airlines, American Airlines, Air Asia, Cathay Pacific, Air India, IndiGo, Lufthansa and Finnair have announced plans to limit the flights they are operating to China or stop flying to the country entirely. American Airlines is discontinuing flights from both Beijing and Shanghai to Los Angeles from February 9th to March 27th due to decreased demand for flights. American Airlines flights from Dallas to both Shanghai and Beijing will continue unchanged. British Airways cancels all flights to Beijing and Shanghai until March. 

UCEAP has cancelled all Winter and Spring programs in China.

Based on U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance and U.S. Department of State guidance, university travelers are advised to avoid all nonessential travel to China, and travelers should also avoid layover travel that passes through China.Update as of 4:00 p.m. PST on Jan. 28

Update as of 4:00 p.m. PST on Jan. 28, 2020

More information and resources from:

UC Davis Student Affairs: Coronavirus Update; Precautions During Cold and Flu Season

UC Davis Health: What you need to know about the novel coronavirus

UC Davis Dateline: Coronavirus: Travel Warning, Other Cautions

Update as of 3:00 p.m. PST on Jan. 27, 2020

Based on U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance, and U.S. Department of State guidance, university travelers are advised to avoid all nonessential travel to China.

CDC has issued a Warning – Level 3, Avoid Nonessential Travel to China

The U.S. Department of State has issued a Travel Advisory Level 3:  Reconsider travel to China

The situation continues to evolve; this notice will be updated as more information becomes available.

Update as of 2:00 p.m. PST on Jan. 24, 2020

On January 23, 2020, the Department of State ordered the departure of all non-emergency U.S. personnel and their families from Wuhan, Hubei province. Chinese authorities have imposed strict travel restrictions in the area around Wuhan as well as a number of nearby cities in Hubei province.  Travelers should be aware that the Chinese government could prevent them from entering or exiting parts of Hubei province in central China.  Travelers should be prepared for travel restrictions to be put into effect with little or no advance notice.

Based on U.S. Department of State guidance, university travelers are advised to avoid all nonessential travel to Hubei province, China.

Update as of 3:00 p.m. PST on Jan. 23, 2020

Currently the Chinese government has quarantined the city of Wuhan, and Huanggang, and Ezhou, Chibi, and Zhijiang are under transportation lockdown, with an impending quarantine order for Xianning. These travel restrictions affect cities home to around 23 million people. 

Travelers from China should expect health screenings as they enter other countries. Health screenings might include temperature monitoring and symptom questionnaires. Travelers with symptoms (fever, cough, or difficulty breathing) will likely have an additional health assessment.

Based on U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance, university travelers are advised to avoid all nonessential travel to Wuhan, China.

Announcement posted at 3:30 p.m. PST on Jan. 21, 2020

A novel coronavirus outbreak started in the city of Wuhan, China on December 8, 2019. Symptoms of this illness include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Several hundred people have been diagnosed with the virus including cases in Thailand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and the United States. 

Travelers from Wuhan (or those who transited through Wuhan) and possibly other cities in China should expect health screenings as they enter other countries. Health screenings might include temperature monitoring and symptom questionnaires. Travelers with symptoms (fever, cough, or difficulty breathing) will likely have an additional health assessment.

Travelers to areas with confirmed cases of the Novel Coronavirus should:

Avoid animals (alive or dead), animal markets, and products that come from animals (such as uncooked meat).

Avoid contact with sick people.

Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

If you traveled to these countries and feel sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, you should:

Stay home. Except for seeking medical care, avoid contact with others.

Seek medical care right away. Before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.

Not report to work.

Not travel while sick. 

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.

Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

For any health related questions, travelers should contact: 
Occupational Health Services
Phone: 530-752-6051
Email: occupationalhealth@ucdavis.edu

For travel security questions, travelers should contact:
A.J. Leeds
Travel Security Manager
Global Affairs
Phone: 530-752-4129
Email: TravelSecurity@ucdavis.edu