Among the last holdouts on strict COVID restrictions, including those on travel, China and Hong Kong announced in the final week of 2022 that almost all COVID restrictions are being lifted, paving the way for a full resumption of travel into and out of both destinations.
Hong Kong
The Hong Kong government announced the removal of mandatory PCR test requirements upon arrival as well as its Vaccine Pass effective 29DEC, 2022.
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.
The 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."
China
China announced that it is abandoning its “zero Covid” policy. The country reopens to the world as of 08JAN, with the dropping of hotel quarantines for inbound pax, as well the country's cap on inbound flights. Pax will still need to wear masks on board, and they will also have to present a negative PCR test result 48 hours prior to departure.
According to Breaking Travel News, "Visas for inbound business travellers and people visiting family will be issued from January 8 but general tourist visas (which are required for those with a British passport) are yet to be given the 'green light'."
The move does open the border for Chinese citizens to resume overseas leisure travel. Passport services will be resumed and outbound travel will no longer require a reason.
