Flying Emirates to the US? There's a new form to complete before check-in. Passengers must declare whether they've been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo during the previous 21 days, Gulf News reports. The rule applies from 4 November, including to travellers connecting through the US. Print and sign the form, or risk delays at the airport.

The details

Emirates has introduced a new documentation requirement for passengers travelling to or through the United States.

The requirement applies to US-bound departures from 11.59pm Eastern Standard Time on 3 November 2026, which falls on 4 November in the UAE.

Under the updated travel advisory, passengers must complete and sign an attestation confirming they have not been present in the Democratic Republic of the Congo during the 21 days before boarding, unless an official exemption applies.

The airline says the requirement also covers passengers connecting through US airports on their way to another destination.

Every passenger must have a separate completed form. Where permitted, an authorised representative may sign on another passenger's behalf.

Travellers must download and print the form from the US government's website, complete it and carry a physical copy to the airport.

Emirates says the document must be presented during check-in. For connecting passengers, verification may take place at the boarding gate.

The airline's advisory does not say that every passenger who has visited the DRC is automatically ineligible to travel. Anyone affected by that part of the requirement should check the official exemption rules before departure.

Passengers should review the latest Emirates travel advisory before leaving for the airport.