China reopened on Jan. 8, 2023, for international travel for both Chinese citizens leaving the country to travel abroad and for travelers arriving from abroad after nearly three years of closed borders and some of the most stringent entry requirements in the world, prompting many to consider traveling
back to the country.
Here’s the latest news on what you need to know if you’re thinking about traveling to mainland China or Hong Kong this year.
Keep in mind, however, that these requirements are subject to change and may change quickly in the future.
Travelers with U.S. passports must do several things to enter mainland China, including obtaining a standard visitor’s visa.
In addition to the visa, they will also have to provide proof of full vaccination and a negative COVID-19 test no later than 48 hours before leaving for China using the NAT test.
Travelers may take any NAT test collected and tested at any CLIA-certified laboratory.
Travelers must also complete an online country health declaration form, which must be submitted at least 24 hours prior to arrival.
It can be found online or through the China Customs app.
Travelers are no longer required to re-quarantine or get tested when entering mainland China.
It is required that travelers and residents wear masks in all public places, except when engaged in heavy physical activity.
Travelers arriving from outside Hong Kong who are not Chinese nationals must show proof of their full vaccination and submit to PCR or rapid antigen test results before departure, the results of which can be provided by photographic evidence or uploaded to the voluntary health system.
A declaration form that can be found online.
The government also recommends that travelers conduct a rapid test every day from arrival until the fifth day of travel to Hong Kong and upload these results to the monitoring system, although this is not mandatory.
Travelers traveling to mainland China from Hong Kong should pre-book transit to the mainland online and take a PCR test within 48 hours before leaving for the mainland.
Hong Kong now requires full mask-wearing in all public places, except when strenuous physical activity is required.
Travelers should also be aware that as of February 1, 2023, cannabidiol or CBD will be classified as a dangerous drug;
- entering the country with CBD in your possession will be illegal and could result in jail time.
