In response to growing concerns about the new Omicron variant of Covid-19, US President Joe Biden has announced that the country’s entry requirements will be tightened.

Passengers flying to the United States will be required to show a negative Covid-19 test performed within one day of departure beginning Monday.

Previously, the country reported its first official Omicron case, which was discovered in California in a fully vaccinated patient who had recently returned from South Africa.

In its statement, the White House did not specify whether the required test should be a PCR or whether it could be a rapid test.

Furthermore, Biden extended the federal mask requirement on flights, trains, and other modes of public transportation until March 18th.

Previously, the mandate was set to expire on January 18th.

Drew Crawley, the chief commercial officer of American Express Global Business Travel, commented on the new US international travel protocols, saying, “It is reassuring to see the White House taking proportionate mitigation measures that support public health protection while keeping travel and the economy moving.”

“Since the beginning of the pandemic, the industry has been investing in traveler safety and well-being.”