The travel assistance company has signed agreements with more than 100 laboratories and clinics around the world that now offer discounts on tests of up to 50%
The COVID-19 pandemic is changing the habits of travelers and also the rules for entering the countries they visit. According to the eighth edition of the Report of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), 70% of all world destinations are easing restrictions on the entry of tourists and now opt for the requirement of a negative PCR test on all tourists international
This study, published in early December, indicated that 58% of destinations (126) request polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests upon the arrival of international tourists. In recent days, this percentage has grown significantly since the adoption of this measure by more countries, such as Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia and the United States, among others.
Negative PCR requirement
In Argentina, on December 25, the measure that indicates that it is necessary to have a negative PCR carried out up to 72 hours before boarding to enter the country came into effect. This requirement applies, at least until January 31, only for Argentine citizens or residents (and direct relatives) who enter the country since the borders remain closed for tourists.
Likewise, other requirements for the traveler entering Argentina is to complete the "Electronic Sworn Declaration for ENTRY to the National Territory" 48 hours before the travel date and perform mandatory isolation of 7 days at the address reported in the Declaration Sworn (it is 10 days from the collection of the PCR sample). In addition, during the 48 hours after entering the country, the CUIDAR APP must be downloaded and it is recommended to review the additional requirements corresponding to the provinces and municipalities to visit.
In case the person has had COVID-19, they only have to present a medical certificate of discharge if it was within the 90 days prior to the trip.
On the other hand, those interested in traveling to Brazil must also show a negative PCR test along with an Affidavit of Traveler's Health (DSV) at the time of entering the country. This regulation, which has been in force since December 30, is also mandatory for passengers with international connections.
Along the same lines, since January 7, Chile requires the presentation of a PCR test with a negative result carried out, at most, 72 hours before the trip to all passengers over 2 years of age from abroad, whether they are residents in the country or tourists. In addition, foreigners must have health insurance and perform a 10-day quarantine at the destination, being able to access a new 7th PCR test, to end the confinement in advance.
In the case of travelers arriving in Colombia, whether they are residents or foreigners and regardless of age, they must present the PCR test with a negative result and with an issue date of no more than 96 hours from January 12.
The United States recently announced that it will request a negative COVID-19 PCR from all travelers arriving by plane to the country. The measure seeks to prevent travelers from bringing new mutations of the coronavirus and will take effect from January 26. Passengers must undergo a test three days before their flight leaves for that country.
Faced with this new requirement, and thinking about the well-being of its travelers, ASSIST CARD signed agreements with more than 100 laboratories and clinics around the world that now offer discounts on PCR tests (which can reach 50%, depending on the place).
"In the company we continue working to be the best ally of travelers and that is why all our services cover COVID-19 up to the maximum limit of the product. Similarly, in case of a positive diagnosis, non-medical unforeseen events are covered of our additional COVID EXTRA service, "says Federico Tarling, Operations Director of ASSIST CARD International.
Traveling in the new normality
For Argentines who are planning an international trip, ASSIST CARD reminds them that they must do so in time and take into account the measures, documents and medical requirements for entering the country of destination, and have comprehensive assistance to accompany you in the face of any unforeseen event, such as the contagion of COVID-19, that may alter the development of your trip. Currently, more than 40 destinations require a product like ASSIST CARD to enter.