It was only in 2009 that the United States finally lifted its 22-year ban on travelers with HIV, a law that prohibited all infected persons from obtaining tourist visas or permanent residence status. The order, initiated by George H.W. Bush in 2008, was officially signed into law by Barack Obama on October 30, 2009.
While efforts are being made to end similar laws throughout the world, the Global Database on HIV-Specific Travel & Residence Restrictions (a joint European initiative published by the International AIDS Society) reports that s of 2019, 49 countries are known to have some entry regulations for people living with HIV. Of these, 14 are named as having laws that can (or potentially can) affect travelers visiting for 90 days or less.
HIV Travel Restrictions in Practice
It is important to note, however, that there is often a lack of clarity about these laws, with some either not addressing HIV directly (describing only “infectious disease” concerns) or not enforcing the laws all that stringently, if at all. As such, the assessments provided below are couched in terms that best reflect whether an action “will,” “can” or “may” take place.
Similarly, there is a lack of clarity about the import of antiretroviral drugs—whether the drugs are allowed for personal use; how much can be brought in if they are permitted; or if possession of such constitutes the right to deny entry.
For these reasons, it is advised that you always speak with the consulate or embassy of any of the listed destinations if you plan to visit.
Countries With Entry Restrictions for Both HIV-Positive Tourists and Other Visa Applicants
Aruba
Australia
Azerbaidjan
Bahrain
Bhutan
Brunei
China
Cuba
Cyprus
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
Egypt
Equatorial Guinea
Honduras
Iran
Iraq
Israel
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kuwait
Kyrgyzstan
Lebanon
Malaysia
Marshall Islands
Mauritius
Montserrat
New Zealand
Nicaragua
Oman
Papua New Guinea
Paraguay
Qatar
Russia
Samoa
Saudi Arabia
Seychelles
Singapore
Solomon Islands
St. Kitts and Nevis
St. Vincent and Grenadines
Sudan
Suriname
Syria
Tonga
Tunisia
Turks and Caicos Islands
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Virgin Islands
Yemen
