Hong Kong has been taking baby steps in relaxing COVID guidelines for international arrivals. In yet another significant development, Hong Kong government announced that international passengers will no longer need the vaccine pass and PCR test.
Hong Kong aims to scrap COVID-19 testing requirements for cross-border travellers. In addition, Hong Kong will gradually end its daily quota system after the Lunar New Year holidays to lure back visitors. Moreover, the government has also scrapped quarantine for close contact. The government will iron out the details of the new guidelines soon. Raise your hands if you are excited to return to Hong Kong.
Hong Kong COVID guidelines: PCR tests requirement scrapped
Recently, the government reduced the PCR screening requirement for inbound travellers to two tests where inbound travellers only had to undergo PCR tests on the first and third days. Until then, passengers were required to undergo PCR tests on the fifth and seventh day as well.
Travellers to Hong Kong no longer need to take a PCR test upon arrival at the airport. They will be allowed to proceed to their respective hotels and homes without the testing or vaccine pass requirement.
Hong Kong scrapped the “0+3” medical surveillance requirement
Hong Kong also scrapped the “0+3” medical surveillance requirement. As Hong Kong ended the amber health code requirement, visitors in the city could move around freely. Additionally, residents no longer needed to scan QR codes with their “Leave Home Safe” app. Travellers also did not need a negative result from a rapid test to enter bars and banquets. Mandatory mask-wearing remain in place despite the relaxations.
Hong Kong residents do not need vaccination proof to return to the city
We’ve all needed to stay on top of the pandemic-related rules since 2020. By spring 2022, however, a handful of countries lifted all travel restrictions, allowing international visitors to enter without proof of vaccination, a negative test. However, strict rules such as the mandatory hotel quarantine made travelling to Hong Kong difficult. The removal of hotel quarantine came as a massive relief to incoming travellers.
Since September, international arrivals only needed to present proof of negative rapid antigen test results obtained within 24 hours before boarding their flight. Besides, Hong Kong residents could return to the city without proof of vaccination.
Hero and feature image credit: Courtesy of Ruslan Bardash/Unsplash
This story first appeared on Lifestyle Asia.
Related: PCR Test Mandatory For Children Under Three Entering Mainland China From Hong Kong
