Hong Kong – a favorite destination for global travelers – is one of the slower and more cautious cities to welcome returning travelers. However, the moment the world has been waiting for has finally arrived: travelers can once again visit Hong Kong without quarantining in hotels. Yes, you read that right! After a long two-year hiatus, Hong Kong has finally lifted its mandatory three-day hotel quarantine. Hong Kong is also easing testing rules, ending the world’s last stringent pandemic-era travel quarantine. The lifting of travel restrictions in Hong Kong will surely attract a large number of tourists to Hong Kong. However, tourists traveling to Hong Kong must still abide by the following regulations.
Hong Kong is implementing “0+3” period instead of hotel quarantine
Hong Kong has implemented a “0+3” period, in which tourists are expected to self-monitor symptoms for three days. While you will be allowed to leave hotels and accommodation during this time, you will be restricted from entering certain public spaces such as shopping centres, bars and restaurants.
“0+3” medical observation period for intra-city mobility
Once you arrive in Hong Kong, you will need to download the Leave Home Safe app (available on Google Play and Apple Store). After downloading, you will receive an “Amber Code” reflecting your application. Amber Code restricts access to public spaces including restaurants, lounges, bars and clubs, gyms, swimming pools, salons and spas. However, you can take public transport to work or buy groceries from a supermarket.
Once your “0+3” slot ends at 9am on the 3rd day of your arrival, your code will turn blue and you can move around without any restrictions.
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Overseas travelers not vaccinated cannot travel to Hong Kong
You need to be fully vaccinated to enter Hong Kong immediately. If you are unable to be vaccinated against Covid-19 for medical reasons, you must bring valid proof. Still, Hong Kong residents who wish to return to the city do not need proof of vaccination. The government is also allowing entry to travelers who have recovered from COVID-19 14 to 90 days before boarding a flight.
Pre-Boarding Tests and Other Rules
Airlines have also added more flights to Hong Kong in anticipation of increased interest and a surge in demand. For example, Cathay Pacific added more than 200 flights in October. So, are you going to board the plane to Hong Kong? Under the updated rules, you will no longer be required to undergo a PCR test before boarding a flight. Instead, you must take a rapid antigen test 24 hours before boarding the flight.
In addition to the mandatory vaccination and testing Hong Kong travel requirements, you must complete an electronic health declaration form before boarding a flight to Hong Kong. After registration, you will receive the QR code you will need when you arrive at the airport. If you have any problems filling out the form online, you can ask Hong Kong airport staff for help.
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Arrival rules: PCR test, etc.
Traveling to Hong Kong? Be prepared to undergo a PCR test upon arrival at the airport. However, you can collect your bags and go to your hotel or residence without waiting for the test results. Visitors must also undergo PCR testing on the second, fourth and sixth days respectively. In addition, you will need to take a rapid antigen test every day for 7 days.
During the “0+3” period, you can go to the community testing center (CTC), mobile specimen collection station or any medical testing institution for RT-PCR testing at your own expense.
Tested positive upon arrival?here’s what you need to know
Unfortunately, if you test positive, you will be issued a “code red” and will need to self-isolate at home or in a hotel. If you need medical treatment, the government will send you to the appropriate facility. Additionally, you will be given an electronic tag wristband that will track your every move if you break the rules and try to leave the hotel.
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Although Hong Kong has eased travel restrictions, you must still abide by epidemic rules, including social distancing and mandatory wearing of masks.
Have more questions about traveling to Hong Kong? Follow this link for all updated travel regulations.
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