China: Authorities to replace COVID-19 PCR test requirement for all inbound travelers with antigen rapid test from April 29 /update 60

Event

Authorities in mainland China will replace the current COVID-19 PCR test requirement for all inbound travelers with an antigen rapid test (ART) from April 29. Passengers must take an ART 48 hours before boarding their flight; airlines will no longer check the COVID-19 test results of passengers. Officials currently require international travelers from certain countries, such as Japan, South Korea, and the US to take a PCR test before entering China. The eased ART requirements are already in effect for travelers from 34 countries including France, Italy, Singapore, and Switzerland, among others.

Domestic Restrictions
Facemasks are no longer mandatory at most indoor and outdoor locations, including public transport. However, people must continue to wear facemasks in healthcare settings, such as hospitals and nursing homes. Officials have lifted requirements for individuals to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test and green health code to take public transport or enter public venues. Persons traveling between cities and provinces are no longer required to present a negative PCR test result or undergo mandatory quarantine. Asymptomatic individuals or those with mild COVID-19 symptoms may self-isolate at home.

International Restrictions
Foreign nationals with valid residence permits and visas may enter mainland China for business, employment, education, tourism, medical, and family purposes. Foreigners holding valid visas issued before March 28, 2020, are allowed entry. Additionally, foreigners traveling to Hainan Island or arriving on cruise ships to Shanghai, as well as certain tour groups from Hong Kong and Macau to Guangdong, and from ASEAN countries to Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, are eligible for visa-free travel. International travelers no longer need to quarantine on arrival but must take an ART within 48 hours before boarding from April 29; airlines will no longer check the COVID-19 test results of passengers.

All customs checkpoints between mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau are open. Travelers entering mainland China by land from Macau and Hong Kong are no longer required to register in advance. Additionally, ferry services between mainland China and South Korea have resumed.

Most major airlines are gradually resuming international flights to mainland China.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by local health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.

Resources

National Health Commission