The Hong Kong SAR Government has lifted all arrival controls and Covid-19 requirements starting from 29 December.
This includes the removal of PCR test requirements for inbound travellers upon arrival in Hong Kong and the lifting of Vaccine Pass which allowed access to specified premises and other measures.
Key changes:
Testing Requirement (PCR Test upon Arrival & on Day 2 Scrapped)
- All PCR tests upon arrival will no longer be required (previously required upon arrival at HK International Airport and on Day 2).
- Visitors are only required to present negative results from PCR tests conducted within 48 hours or rapid antigen tests (RAT) within 24 hours before their flights to Hong Kong.
- Daily RAT on the first 5 days is voluntary.
Vaccine Pass Dropped
- Vaccine Pass, which allowed access to specified premises, will no longer be required.
Social Distancing Measures Relaxed
- Restrictions on group gathering size in public and limits on the capacity of restaurants as well as other targeted premises will be lifted.
- Only mask mandate remains in effect.
Quarantine for COVID Close Contacts Dropped
- Close contacts (i.e. co-living members of confirmed COVID cases) will no longer be isolated in residence or government-run facilities.
Dr Pang Yiu-kai, Chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), said:
“The new measures mark a key milestone for tourism revival and the full reopening of the tourism doors of Hong Kong.
“Visitors can now fully enjoy Hong Kong’s diverse offerings once they arrive in town. We believe this will attract visitors to Hong Kong from around the world.
“Taking into account the pace of outbound travel resumption in different visitor source markets, HKTB will gradually step up its promotions worldwide to uphold Hong Kong’s status as a world-class travel destination.”
In the last few years, numerous attractions, world-class museums and hotels have been opened or revamped to inject novelty into the travel experience in the city.
“In addition to the new experiences, a strong line-up of all-time favourites continues to await visitors to rediscover in Hong Kong, including its diverse gastronomic options, year-round events and the great outdoors.
Inbound travellers to Hong Kong are now only required to present negative results from PCR tests conducted within 48 hours or rapid antigen tests (RAT) within 24 hours before their flights to Hong Kong.
For more information, visit www.discoverhongkong.com/uk.
Mainland China*
China has also announced that as of 8 January, quarantine is no longer required for travellers arriving on the mainland.
The country will also “improve” visa arrangements for foreigners entering the country for work, business, study, and other gatherings.
China will also resume its citizen’s ability to travel overseas in an “orderly” manner.
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