Hong Kong quarantine requirements lifted

From today, a new system of testing and self surveillance is in place

Compulsory quarantine requirements for inbound overseas travellers to Hong Kong International Airport has been lifted, effective from today, 26 September 2022.

Authorities issued an official press releases and a guide (see below) explaining the new ‘0+3’ boarding and medical surveillance requirements now on place.

Before travel, inbound travellers must be fully vaccinated, but they don't need a PCR test – a pre-departure rapid antigen test within 24 hours is all that's required, along with a completed health declaration form. 

RELATED
Is your travel business China-ready?

Upon arrival, which is classed as day 0, visitors receive a PCR test at the airport under a new 'test and go' scheme, which means they can then proceed to their hotel to await results rather than being detained at the airport. 

Upon receiving a negative test result via the app, visitors begin three days of 'home medical surveillance' followed by four days of self-surveillance, along with daily rapid antigen or PCR tests. 

During this time, visitors can go out and enjoy Hong Kong's wide-open green spaces, but they can't enter premises such as restaurants and bars, which require a verified Vaccine Pass. This is issued after the health app shows a visitor has completed their health surveillance. 

GET YOUR FREE 48-PAGE GCC TRAVEL & HOSPITALITY REPORT HERE

The news has been welcomed by Dr Pang Yiu-kai, Chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), who said: "The new arrangements mark Hong Kong’s re-opening as a tourism gateway with significant international connections. This is expected to initially attract mainly business travellers, family visitors and returning Hong Kong residents. 

"In addition, travellers are no longer required to take a PCR test before boarding flights to Hong Kong, and upon arrival, they can head directly to their home or chosen hotel to await the test results. The new arrangements will allow greater convenience and flexibility for travellers.

“The application of the ‘Come2HK’ scheme to all Mainland and Macau visitors and the removal of quotas for the scheme will also facilitate Mainland travellers to visit Hong Kong, especially business travellers and family visitors.” 

The HKTB has been actively planning to revive the tourism industry and will launch various initiatives in a timely manner, working with the government, the tourism industry and related sectors, to drive the recovery of Hong Kong tourism.