05 Jan 2023 | 03:27 PM UTC
European Union: European Union recommends member states impose COVID-19-related travel restrictions for arrivals from China as of Jan. 8
European Union recommends member states impose COVID-19-related travel restrictions for arrivals from China as of Jan. 8.
Event
European Union officials announced recommendations on restrictions on travel from China from Jan. 8; the recommendations come as China eases travel restrictions amid high COVID-19 infection rates. The following recommendations apply to all EU and Schengen member states:
Introduction of the requirement for a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 48 hours prior to departure from China.
Introduction of random testing of passengers arriving from China.
Passengers on flights to and from China are recommended to wear a medical mask or FFP2/N95/KN95 respirators.
The recommendation is non-binding. Individual member states may choose to impose more or less strict measures or no restrictions at all; other possible restrictions include proof of vaccination requirements. As of Jan. 5, some member states have already imposed or confirmed their intention to impose entry restrictions on travelers from China, including Austria, Belgium, France, Italy, Germany, Greece, Spain, and Sweden. Additional EU and Schengen Area countries are highly likely to impose entry restrictions for travelers from China in the coming days.
Advice
Prospective travelers from China should check for possible additional restrictions imposed by the destination country prior to booking travel. Follow all official immigration and health-screening instructions. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or reintroduction of restrictions.
