The US Ebola attestation form becomes mandatory for every passenger flying to or through the United States from 3 November. It applies to Indian travellers too, because the rule covers all foreign departure points, not only Africa. So if you have a US trip coming up, here is what to expect at check-in.
Quick answer
- Applies to flights leaving a foreign country for the US at or after 11:59 pm EST on 3 November 2026.
- Everyone signs, including US citizens, transit passengers and children (a parent can sign).
- You attest that you have not been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the past 21 days.
- Airlines cannot board you without it, and false statements can be prosecuted.
What the US Ebola attestation form asks
The form comes from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It has one core statement. You confirm that you were not physically present in the Democratic Republic of the Congo during the 21 days before boarding.
Transit through a Congolese airport counts as presence. Day 0 is the day you left the country. As a result, travel to the US is allowed from Day 22.
Who has to sign it
According to the CDC order, the rule covers everyone boarding a flight into or connecting through the US. That includes US citizens and permanent residents. Transit passengers must also sign, even if they stay on the plane.
A parent, guardian or travel companion can complete the form for a child or for someone who cannot act alone. One representative may sign for a whole group. However, the airline still keeps a record for each person.
Land borders and seaports are not covered. Flights that only pass over the US without landing are also outside the rule.
What happens at the airport
Airlines must check that every passenger has completed the attestation at or shortly before boarding. They cannot board anyone who has not done so, unless the person is exempt. Exemptions are rare, and the CDC says it will contact the airline if one applies.
Airlines also have to keep each form for at least 42 days after the flight lands. They must hand copies to US authorities on request. Because each airline sets up its own process, ask yours whether the form is a paper sheet, a check-in checkbox or an app step.
The form warns that false or misleading statements can lead to prosecution under US law. So answer it truthfully, even if you are in a hurry.
How to avoid delays
First, check your airline’s website or app a day before travel for instructions. Next, reach the airport early, because a new step can slow the counter. Also carry your passport details handy, since staff may help with data entry but cannot attest for you.
Meanwhile, keep an eye on your airline’s notices. Industry groups have asked the CDC to reconsider parts of the rule, according to news reports, so details could be adjusted. For other route changes affecting Indian flyers, see our note on Air India Saudi flights suspended till 14 November.
FAQ
Does the US Ebola attestation form apply to Indian passengers?
Yes. The CDC order covers everyone flying to or through the US from any foreign country. You only attest that you have not been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the past 21 days.
Do children need to fill it in?
Yes, every passenger is covered. A parent or guardian can complete the form for a child.
What if I refuse to sign?
The airline cannot board you. Only rare exemptions set by the CDC, such as certain medical transport, apply.
The full rule is on the CDC attestation order page.