South Korea: Authorities to lift pre-departure COVID-19 test requirement for travelers from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau from March 11 /update 102

Event

South Korean authorities will no longer require travelers from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau to take a pre-departure test to enter the country from March 11. Officials previously required such travelers to present a negative PCR or rapid antigen test result taken within 48 or 24 hours, respectively, before departure.

Domestic Measures
Facemasks are no longer required in most indoor public spaces, with some exceptions (e.g., healthcare facilities and public transportation). Additional domestic curbs, such as gathering restrictions and testing mandates, are likely to vary by province. Authorities may ease or expand existing restrictions depending on levels of domestic COVID-19 activity.

International Travel Restrictions
Visa-free and visa-waiver programs have resumed, with some exceptions. Passport holders from eligible countries must obtain an electronic travel authorization (K-ETA) at least 72 hours before entry; to access the form, click here.

Authorities encourage all incoming travelers to register their travel information on the Q-Code platform before departure for South Korea. To access the platform, click here.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Resources

Korea Tourism Organization
Quarantine COVID19 Defence (Q-Code) system