Does Chicago Have Travel Restrictions Right Now? What You Should Know Before Coming Here
by jazminmarie United States, Illinois, Chicago
The best part of the Internet is how quickly information can be shared. Unfortunately the worst part of the Internet is also how quickly misinformation can also be shared. As a Chicago local and someone who is trying to inspire you to travel more I think it is my responsibility to list the questions you should be asking as well as the official responses from the city of Chicago website in regards to the current travel restrictions.
Does Chicago have travel restrictions?
What states are on Chicago’s travel ban?
When does Chicago update its travel restrictions?
How is Chicago enforcing this travel ban?
When will Chicago travel ban end?
I’m flying back into Chicago, do I need to get tested?
I’m flying into Chicago from another country, what should I do?
I’m flying into Chicago, what type of test should I get?
What You Should Know Before You Come to Chicago:
The most important thing you should know is things are changing daily.
The information below reflects the city of Chicago website as of 08/13/2021 – please remember to check if this information is up-to-date before your trip.
Does Chicago have travel restrictions?
As of today Chicago has added 12 more states to the Travel Advisory List. States that made the Travel Advisory List has surpassed 15 cases per day, per 100,000 residents. You can see the most updated list here.
What states are on Chicago’s travel ban?
As of 8/10/2021 there are 32 states and 2 territories currently on Chicago’s Travel Advisory List. You can see the most updated list here.
Those states are: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.
When does Chicago update its travel restrictions?
Chicago updates its Travel Advisory List every other Tuesday based on the previous days’ data. You can find the most updated list here.
Who can travel to Chicago?
Vaccinated individuals or travelers with a negative Covid test within 72 hours can travel to Chicago, Illinois currently.
How is Chicago enforcing this travel ban?
Chicago is enforcing this travel ban by requiring a negative Covid test prior to visiting or being vaccinated. When flying into Chicago a negative covid test or vaccination card should be presented. When driving into Chicago you should be tested within 3 days of arrival or in quarantine until you receive your negative results. You can read more here.
When will Chicago travel ban end?
Chicago updates its Travel Advisory List every other Tuesday based on the previous Mondays’ data. States are removed from the list when they have less than 15 cases per day, per 100,000 residents. You can find the most updated list here.
I’m flying back into Chicago, do I need to get tested?

Yes, if you are flying into Chicago you are required to be vaccinated or show a negative Covid test within three calendar days of departing your location. Airlines will review your credentials prior to boarding and flying into Chicago.
I’m flying into Chicago from another country, what should I do?

If you’re flying into Chicago from another country you are required to be vaccinated or have a negative Covid test within three calendar days of departure. Airlines will deny forwarding to travelers without proper credentials.
I’m flying into Chicago, what type of test should I get?
If you’re unvaccinated the test you must have is a diagnostic test. The antibody test does not qualify. Check for the most recent testing requirement here.
Remember to check the City of Chicago’s website for the most updated information prior to your departure. My blog post was written on 08/13/2021 and information is being updated frequently.
Looking for Things to Do While You’re Here?
Are you planning a trip to Chicago soon? I’ve written quite a few posts about things to do in Chicago, Illinois that include day itineraries like this one, best (free) tours in Chicago, fun photo walks, tips for women traveling to Chicago & of course amazing Chicago food you must try!
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