What: Visitors to Hong Kong No Longer Must Quarantine
Effective last month, the Hong Kong government announced new COVID-19 protocols for travelers from overseas and Taiwan through Hong Kong International Airport. The procedure — which it is calling the “0+3” plan — includes the removal of a mandatory hotel quarantine, making the destination more accessible to visitors. The new regulations include pre-departure vaccinations and testing; a PCR “test and go” program at the Hong Kong airport; followed by some restrictions over the first three days after arrival.
Why It Matters: Travelers Will Return to Hong Kong, But Should Understand New Protocols
Hong Kong has always been one of the most important destinations for leisure and business travel, and now, travelers are incentivized to return.
This is expected to initially attract mainly business travelers, family visitors and returning Hong Kong residents.
However, advisors should be aware that there are still some protocols that clients need to be aware of: During the first three days after arrival — the “Amber Code” period — visitors can use public transport, visit malls and supermarkets and can get take-out food from restaurants. (Bars and in-restaurant dining is prohibited.) After three days, travelers enter the Blue Code phase with no limit on access to public premises.
Fast Facts:
- Pre-arrival regulations include two complete doses of vaccination (except for travelers with a valid medical certificate for exemption); a negative RAT test taken 24 hours before arrival; and a completed health declaration.
- After taking the PCR test in the Hong Kong airport, visitors can leave the airport by public transport, or their own arrangement, and wait for test results at their accommodation.
- During the Amber Code period, visitors are banned from entering restaurants, bars, pubs, party rooms, fitness centers and beauty parlors, and from joining any mask-off activities. (Take-out orders from restaurants are allowed.)
What They Are Saying: The New Protocols Mark Hong Kong's Reopening to Tourism
“The new arrangements mark Hong Kong’s reopening as a tourism gateway with significant international connections,” said Dr. Pang Yiu-kai, chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board. “This is expected to initially attract mainly business travelers, family visitors and returning Hong Kong residents. In addition, travelers 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 travelers.”
