If you’ve got an upcoming flight to the U.S., you might be surprised by a new mandatory rule that took effect this month.
Introduced by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this policy applies to people of all nationalities, including Canadians.
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Mandatory Attestations
The new rule involves signing an attestation to confirm that you have not been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in the 21 days before boarding your flight. All air travellers are required to sign this statement if they’re travelling or boarding a connection flight to the U.S.
The attestation order kicked in on November 3, 2026, following the DRC’s growing Ebola outbreak that began back in early 2026.
Ebola Travel Warnings
But the U.S. isn’t the only country to put up safeguards against Ebola’s potential spread.
The federal government has warned Canadians to avoid all travel to the DRC because of the outbreak. Originally published on May 15, 2026, the Public Health Agency of Canada issued a Travel Health Notice to alert travellers to the potential danger.
Canada currently has temporary border measures in place for travellers that have been to the DRC, Uganda, or South Sudan within the preceding 21 days. Canadians and Canadian permanent residents are required to quarantine for 21 days while monitoring their health, whereas those who exhibit symptoms upon arrival will be placed in isolation at a medical facility following a medical assessment.
According to the federal government, Ebola is serious and “often fatal.”
Making A Declaration
For those headed to the U.S. on a flight, how you make your declaration depends on what airline you’re taking.
The CDC notes, “as required by United States federal law, all airlines or other aircraft operators will provide and collect the attestation on behalf of the U.S. Government prior to boarding.” Travellers are advised to check with the airline or aircraft operator to learn how their attestation will be collected.
While some airlines like Flair Airlines are collecting attestations during online check-in, others such as Porter Airlines are using printed attestations at check-in counters and gates.
If you’re unsure about how you’re meant to fill out your Ebola attestation form, be sure to ask your airline before boarding.
