Coronavirus-Related Restrictions on El Paso-Juarez Border Crossings in Effect

Travel restrictions on border crossings between El Paso and Juárez are in effect as both countries try to slow the spread of coronavirus. First and foremost, before I get to specifics, it should be noted the border is not closed.

In fact, the southbound lanes at the Paso Del Norte, Stanton and Ysleta/Zaragoza ports of entry -- which are managed by the City of El Paso -- will continue to operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The temporary policy will not keep American citizens from coming back into the U.S. nor does it restrict people who live in Mexico and are authorized to work in the U.S. from traveling back and forth either. What is prohibited is recreational and tourist travel.

Below is a short list of what qualifies as "essential travel":

• U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents returning to the United States
• Individuals traveling for medical purposes (e.g., to receive medical treatment in the U.S.)
• Individuals traveling to attend educational institutions
• Individuals traveling to work in the United States

To look at the complete list of essential cross-border travel put out by the City of El Paso click HERE. For now, restrictions will stay in place through April 20.