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Update May 10, 2024

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China Travel Advisory

Travel advisory april 12, 2024, mainland china, hong kong & macau - see summaries.

Updated due to new national security legislation in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

Summary:  Reconsider travel to Mainland China due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including in relation to exit bans, and the risk of wrongful detentions.

Exercise increased caution when traveling to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws .

Reconsider travel to the Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) due to a limited ability to provide emergency consular services . Exercise increased caution when traveling to the Macau SAR due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws .

See specific risks and conditions in each jurisdiction . 

Mainland China – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws , including in relation to exit bans, and the risk of wrongful detentions .

Summary:  The People’s Republic of China (PRC) government arbitrarily enforces local laws, including issuing exit bans on U.S. citizens and citizens of other countries, without fair and transparent process under the law.

The Department of State has determined the risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals by the PRC government exists in the PRC.

U.S. citizens traveling or residing in the PRC may be detained without access to U.S. consular services or information about their alleged crime. U.S. citizens in the PRC may be subjected to interrogations and detention without fair and transparent treatment under the law.

Foreigners in the PRC, including but not limited to businesspeople, former foreign-government personnel, academics, relatives of PRC citizens involved in legal disputes, and journalists have been interrogated and detained by PRC officials for alleged violations of PRC national security laws. The PRC has also interrogated, detained, and expelled U.S. citizens living and working in the PRC.

PRC authorities appear to have broad discretion to deem a wide range of documents, data, statistics, or materials as state secrets and to detain and prosecute foreign nationals for alleged espionage. There is increased official scrutiny of U.S. and third-country firms, such as professional service and due diligence companies, operating in the PRC. Security personnel could detain U.S. citizens or subject them to prosecution for conducting research or accessing publicly available material inside the PRC.

Security personnel could detain and/or deport U.S. citizens for sending private electronic messages critical of the PRC, Hong Kong SAR, or Macau SAR governments.

In addition, the PRC government has used restrictions on travel or departure from the PRC, or so-called exit bans, to:

• compel individuals to participate in PRC government investigations;
• pressure family members of the restricted individual to return to the PRC from abroad;
• resolve civil disputes in favor of PRC citizens; and
• gain bargaining leverage over foreign governments.

U.S. citizens might only become aware of an exit ban when they attempt to depart the PRC, and there may be no available legal process to contest an exit ban in a court of law. Relatives, including minor children, of those under investigation in the PRC may become subject to an exit ban.

The PRC government does not recognize dual nationality. Dual U.S.-PRC citizens and U.S. citizens of Chinese descent may be subject to additional scrutiny and harassment. If you are a U.S. citizen and choose to enter Mainland China on travel documents other than a U.S. passport and are detained or arrested, the PRC government may not notify the U.S. Embassy or the U.S. Consulates General or allow consular access.

Check with the PRC Embassy in the United States for the most updated information on travel to the PRC. In some limited circumstances travelers to Mainland China may face additional COVID-19 testing requirements to enter some facilities or events.

The Department of State does not provide or coordinate direct medical care to private U.S. citizens abroad. U.S. citizens overseas may receive PRC-approved COVID-19 vaccine doses where they are eligible.

Do not consume drugs in the PRC or prior to arriving in the PRC. A positive drug test, even if the drug was legal elsewhere, can lead to immediate detention, fines, deportation, and/or a ban from re-entering the PRC. PRC authorities may compel cooperation with blood, urine, or hair testing. Penalties for drug offense may exceed penalties imposed in the United States.

Demonstrations : Participating in demonstrations or any other activities that authorities interpret as constituting an act of secession, subversion, terrorism, or collusion with a foreign country could result in criminal charges. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid demonstrations.

XINJIANG UYGHUR AUTONOMOUS REGION, TIBET AUTONOMOUS REGION, and TIBETAN AUTONOMOUS PREFECTURES

Extra security measures, such as security checks and increased levels of police presence and surveillance, are common in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, Tibet Autonomous Region, and Tibetan Autonomous Prefectures. Authorities may impose curfews and travel restrictions on short notice.

If you decide to travel to Mainland China:

• Enter the PRC on your U.S. passport with a valid PRC visa and keep it with you.
• Read the travel information page for Mainland China .
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Avoid demonstrations.
• Exercise caution in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
• Avoid taking photographs of protesters or police without permission.
• Keep a low profile.
• If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify U.S. Embassy Beijing or the nearest U.S. Consulate General immediately.
• Review the  China Country Security Report  from the Overseas Security Advisory Council.
• Do not consume drugs in the PRC or prior to arriving in the PRC.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . Follow U.S. Embassy Beijing on  Twitter ,  WeChat , and  Weibo .
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to the PRC.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.
• Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws .

Summary: Hong Kong SAR authorities have dramatically restricted civil liberties since the Government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) imposed the Law of the PRC on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong SAR on June 30, 2020. Following the Hong Kong SAR government’s enactment of its own Safeguarding National Security Ordinance on March 23, 2024, Hong Kong SAR authorities are expected to take additional actions to further restrict civil liberties.

The 2020 National Security Law outlines a broad range of vaguely defined offenses, such as acts of secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign entities. The 2024 Safeguarding National Security Ordinance builds on this framework with additional vaguely defined offenses, such as treason, insurrection, theft of state secrets, sabotage against public infrastructure, and external interference. According to the legislation, these offenses are applicable to foreign nationals within the Hong Kong SAR and to individuals, including U.S. citizens and permanent residents, located outside its borders. Under these provisions, anyone who criticizes the PRC and/or Hong Kong SAR authorities may face arrest, detention, expulsion, and/or prosecution. Hong Kong SAR authorities are attempting to enforce these provisions against individuals, including U.S. citizens and permanent residents, residing outside of their jurisdiction by offering cash rewards for information leading to their arrests in the Hong Kong SAR.

Dual Nationality: The Hong Kong SAR government does not recognize dual nationality. Dual U.S.-PRC citizens and U.S. citizens of Chinese descent may be subject to additional scrutiny and harassment. If you are a dual U.S.-PRC citizen and enter Hong Kong SAR on a U.S. passport, and you are detained or arrested, PRC authorities are under an obligation to notify the U.S. Embassy or a U.S. Consulate General of your detention and to allow U.S. consular officials to have access to you. In practice, however, U.S. consular officers may be prevented from providing consular assistance, even to those who have entered on their U.S. passports. For more information, visit Consular Protection and Right of Abode in HK(SAR) for Dual Nationals - U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau .

Demonstrations : Participating in demonstrations or any other activities that authorities interpret as constituting an act of secession, subversion, terrorism, or collusion with a foreign country could result in criminal charges under the 2020 National Security Law and/or the 2024 Safeguarding National Security Ordinance. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid demonstrations.

If you decide to travel to the Hong Kong SAR:

• Enter the Hong Kong SAR on your U.S. passport and keep it with you.
• Read the travel information page for the Hong Kong SAR .
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau immediately.
• Review the China Country Security Report from the Overseas Security Advisory Council.
• Do not consume drugs in the Hong Kong SAR or prior to arriving in the Hong Kong SAR.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . Follow U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to the Hong Kong SAR.
• Monitor local media, local transportations sites, and apps like  MTR Mobile  or  Citybus  for updates.

Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to a limited ability to provide emergency consular services. Exercise increased caution due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws.

Summary:  The U.S. government has a limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Macau SAR due to People’s Republic of China (PRC) Ministry of Foreign Affairs travel restrictions on U.S. diplomatic personnel.

Even in an emergency, the PRC Ministry of Foreign Affairs requires all U.S. diplomatic personnel, including those accredited to the Macau SAR, to apply for and receive visas before entering the Macau SAR. Approval takes at least five to seven days, significantly limiting the U.S. government’s ability to offer timely consular services in the Macau SAR.

Dual Nationality: The Macau SAR government does not recognize dual nationality. Dual U.S.-PRC citizens and U.S. citizens of Chinese descent may be subject to additional scrutiny and harassment. If you are a dual U.S.-PRC citizen and enter the Macau SAR on a U.S. passport, and you are detained or arrested, PRC authorities are under an obligation to notify the U.S. Embassy or a U.S. Consulate General of your detention and to allow U.S. consular officials to have access to you. In practice, however, U.S. consular officers may be prevented from providing consular assistance, even to those who have entered on their U.S. passports. For more information, visit Consular Protection and Right of Abode in HK(SAR) for Dual Nationals - U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau .

Demonstrations : Participating in demonstrations or any other activities that authorities interpret as constituting an act of secession, subversion, terrorism, or collusion with a foreign country could result in criminal charges. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid demonstrations.

If you decide to travel to the Macau SAR:

• Enter the Macau SAR on your U.S. passport and keep it with you.
• Read the travel information page for the Macau SAR .
• If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify Review the China Country Security Report from the Overseas Security Advisory Council.
• Do not consume drugs in the Macau SAR or prior to arriving in the Macau SAR.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . Follow U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to the Macau SAR.
• Monitor local media and the Macau Government Tourism Office website for updates.
• Review your flight status with your airline or at the Macau International Airport website.

Travel Advisory Levels

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Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin’s Regular Press Conference on December 27, 2022

Following the latest decision to manage COVID-19 with measures against Class-B infectious diseases, relevant departments under the State Council joint prevention and control mechanism have, after full assessment, formulated provisional measures on cross-border travel. I will now briefly go over these measures.

First, inbound travelers will need to show a negative nucleic acid test taken within 48 hours prior to departure. The test result will need to be noted in the customs health declaration form. Inbound travelers no longer need to apply for a health code from Chinese embassies or consulates. Those who test positive need to postpone their travel until they have a negative test result.

Second, nucleic acid tests will no longer be conducted on inbound travelers upon arrival. Those with no issues to report in their health declaration who have been given regular customs inspection and quarantine clearance can enter China without being subject to quarantine. Those with issues to report in their health declaration or symptoms such as fever shall receive antigen tests at the customs. For travelers who test positive, those determined to be asymptomatic or mild cases without serious underlying health conditions may self-quarantine or exercise self-care at home or place of residence. Other types of cases are advised to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Those who test negative shall go through regular customs inspection and quarantine clearance in accordance with the Frontier Health and Quarantine Law and other established laws and regulations of China.

Third, passenger capacity limits on international flights will be removed with phased increases in the number of flights and refined distribution of flight routes. Airlines need to keep proper prevention measures in place on board including mandatory mask-wearing for passengers.

Fourth, China will further refine arrangements for foreign nationals’ entry into China for such purposes as resumption of work, business, education, visiting relatives and family reunion and provide corresponding visa facilitation.

Fifth, China will adjust the cargo-only policy at ports of entry and gradually resume entry and exit of passengers by land and water and provide greater convenience for Chinese and foreign crew change in China.

Sixth, China will resume outbound tourism for Chinese citizens in an orderly fashion, starting with a pilot scheme.

These provisional measures will take effect on January 8, 2023 Beijing time. Chinese embassies and consulates will also issue relevant notices. Those who plan to travel to China are advised to closely follow the updates and take effective self-protection steps to reduce the risk of infection. China will continue working to make its COVID response measures more science-based, targeted and responsive to the evolving COVID situation, and better facilitate the safe and orderly cross-border travel of Chinese and foreign nationals.

AFP: A follow-up question. Does it mean that China will start to issue tourist visas again next month? Can you clarify this?

Wang Wenbin: The COVID-19 pandemic has not yet ended. China will continue to adjust its visa policy for foreign nationals to keep up with the latest COVID situation and ease the travel of people coming to China for various purposes.

CCTV: The foreign ministry has released on its website the provisional measures on cross-border travel. Could you share the considerations behind these measures?

Wang Wenbin: Since COVID-19 began three years ago, the Chinese government has effectively coordinated COVID response with economic and social development and has refined the response measures by keeping them science-based, targeted and responsive to the evolving situation. In accordance with the 20 refined measures, the 10 new measures and the latest decision to downgrade management of COVID-19 to Class-B, relevant departments under the State Council joint prevention and control mechanism formulated these provisional measures on cross-border travel, which are up-to-date and in sync with the current domestic COVID measures. This will facilitate efforts to better coordinate COVID response with economic and social development, and make cross-border travel easier, safer, more orderly and more efficient.

Dragon TV: It is reported that at an extraordinary Cabinet meeting on December 23, the Japanese government approved a defense budget that amounted up to 6.8 trillion yen for the fiscal year of 2023, hitting a new record high. What is China’s comment?

Wang Wenbin: We have noted relevant reports and express our concerns over Japan’s significant defense budget hike. Japan has been hyping up regional tensions to seek military breakthroughs. This is a very dangerous development, and has led to serious doubts among Japan’s Asian neighbors and the wider international community over whether Japan is genuinely committed to an exclusively defense-oriented policy and a path of peaceful development. Japan needs to earnestly reflect on its history of aggression, act prudently in military and security fields, and avoid further losing the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community. 

AFP: One more question related to COVID. The Japanese Prime Minister announced that visitors to Japan from China will have to test upon arrival. Do you have any comment on this? And India announced a similar move recently.

Wang Wenbin: Since COVID-19 began three years ago, the Chinese government has refined the response measures by keeping them science-based, targeted and responsive to the evolving situation and has effectively coordinated COVID response with economic and social development, contributing significantly to global solidarity against the pandemic and world economic recovery.

The current COVID situation in the world continues to call for a science-based response approach and joint effort to ensure safe cross-border travel, keep global industrial and supply chains stable, and restore world economic growth. We’ve always believed that for all countries, COVID response measures need to be science-based and proportionate without affecting normal people-to-people exchange.

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Traveling to China After Reopening – What’s Changed?

We offer the latest advice on traveling to China in 2023, including information on current Chinese visa application requirements, pre-flight testing, and travel tips.

UPDATE (November 1, 2023): China Customs announced that it will no longer require people leaving and entering China to fill in the Entry/Exit Health Declaration Card. This decision means that from this day forward, there are no more  COVID-era restrictions and requirements for travelers leaving and entering the country. However, anyone leaving or entering China who shows symptoms of or who has been diagnosed with an infectious disease is still required to declare their health status to Customs of their own volition. See our article for more details on this news here .

UPDATE (September 20, 2023): In a bid to attract more international visitors, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) introduced a simplified visa application process on September 20, 2023. This revision primarily focuses on the visa application form and entails two significant changes. Firstly, applicants are now required to list their travel history from the past year instead of the previous five years. Secondly, the educational background section has been streamlined to only request the highest level of education achieved.

These adjustments, according to MFA spokesperson Mao Ning, are intended to reduce the time applicants spend on visa forms and enhance overall efficiency. The MFA reaffirmed its dedication to fostering people-to-people interactions between China and other countries, emphasizing China’s commitment to high-quality development and global engagement.

UPDATE (August 28, 2023):  The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin made a significant declaration that starting from August 30, 2023, travelers heading to China will not have to undergo mandatory pre-entry COVID-19 nucleic acid tests or antigen tests.

In March 2023, China announced that it had resumed issuing all types of visas , giving the official greenlight for foreign travelers and tourists to return to the country. This announcement followed months of gradual dismantling of COVID-19 travel restrictions, which saw the lifting of quarantines, vaccine and testing requirements, and travel codes.  

Domestic and international travel requirements have since been further relaxed so that there are currently almost no additional steps to take in relation to COVID-19 in order to travel to China.  

However, foreign travelers may still be confused when planning for their China trip, as it adopted a progressive approach for lifting restrictions, and the latest information is scattered across a series of announcements. Below we answer some common questions on China travel after the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions.

Which Chinese visas are currently available?  

China resumed issuing all types of visas in March 2023. All of the same types of visas that were available prior to the pandemic are now available for application again.  

The visas that are currently available to travel to China are listed in the table below.  

Note that if you obtain a long-term visa, such as a work or student visa, you are required to convert the visa into a residence permit within a prescribed period of time, usually 30 days.

Is my 10 – year C hinese visa still valid?  

All multiple entry visas that were issued before March 28, 2020, that are still within the validity date can now be used to travel to China again . This includes 10-year visitor visas issued to citizens of the US and other countries. Note that you are usually only able to stay in China for a period of up to 60 days on this type of visa, and you will need to apply for another long-stay visa if you wish to stay longer than 60 days. 

I f the visa has expired since March 28, 2020 , you will be required to apply for a new visa before you can travel to China.  

How do I apply for a Chinese tourist visa in 2023?  

In most cases, foreigners must apply for a visa in order to travel to China. This is done through your nearest Chinese Visa Application Service Center, not the consulate or embassy. You must either be a citizen or have residency or another right to stay (such as a visa) in the country in which you are applying for the Chinese visa.

The requirements to apply for a visa vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and the location in which you apply for it. It is therefore important to check the website of your local Chinese Visa Application Service Center for application requirements.  

Note that the duration of short-stay visas, such as tourism or business visas, can also vary depending on your specific situation, where you apply, and your nationality.  

China does offer some visa-free options for short-term travel. These include 144-hour , 72-hour, and 24-hour visa-free transit, which allows foreign travelers to enter China through designated ports and travel around a limited area for up to six days, provided they are continuing on to a third country after departing the country.  

At the end of November 2023, China also announced a 15-day visa-free entry policy for holders of ordinary passports from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia, during the period from December 1, 2023, to November 30, 2024.

For more information on visa-free travel to China, see our Complete Guide to China’s Visa-Free Policies .  

What are the COVID-19 testing requirements to travel to China?  

There are no longer any COVID-19 testing requirements to enter or leave China. Starting from August 30, 2023, travelers bound for China were no longer required to undergo COVID-19 nucleic acid tests or antigen tests before their departure. In addition, from November 1, 2023, onward, China Customs ceased requiring travelers to fill in and show the Entry/Exit Health Declaration Card , removing the last COVID-era travel requirement.

In its announcement scrapping the health declaration card requirement, China Customs emphasized that people leaving and entering China who show symptoms of or who have been diagnosed with an infectious disease are still required to declare their health situation to Customs of their own volition. Symptoms may include fever, cough, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, or unexplained subcutaneous bleeding, according to the notice. This has been a requirement since before the COVID-19 pandemic.

If you report any symptoms, you may be taken aside for additional testing. If you test positive for COVID-19, you will be permitted to recover in your place of stay or seek medical help if required.

It’s important to stay updated with any further announcements or changes that may arise, as travel guidelines and policies can evolve in response to the ongoing global situation. Travelers are advised to refer to official sources such as the Chinese government’s official websites and diplomatic channels for the most accurate and up-to-date information before planning their trips to China.

Are there any restrictions on traveling within China?  

China has removed all domestic travel restrictions, meaning that people are now free to cross provincial and regional borders without having to show negative COVID-19 tests or health codes.  

Note that if you enter China on one of the short-term transit entry permits, you are not permitted to travel outside a certain designated area, which will depend on your port of entry. For information on where you can travel on this entry permit, see our article here .  

Do I need to take any COVID-19 precautions while traveling in China?  

COVID-19 is still present in China, and it is therefore advisable to take common sense prevention measures when traveling around the country. These precautions are the same as the ones you would take in other countries and include regularly washing your hands or using hand sanitizer, wearing a mask in public, and avoiding crowded areas where possible, among others.  

Mask mandates on public transport and in public areas, such as restaurants, bars, stores, malls, and parks, have been removed. However, the government still advises people to wear them of their own volition.  

Wearing a mask is still mandatory in nursing homes and medical institutions. You should also wear a mask if you test positive for COVID-19.  

What happens if I test positive for COVID-19 while in China?  

You are no longer required to go to a quarantine facility if you test positive for COVID-19.

The current official advice in China if you test positive for COVID-19 is to self-isolate at home if you are asymptomatic or have mild symptoms. If you have moderate to severe symptoms, you should seek medical help, and you may be hospitalized if your condition is serious.    

It is advisable to purchase medical insurance before traveling to China, as staff in public health institutions may only speak Chinese and private healthcare is very expensive.  

It is also advisable to bring fever medicine, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, as you may not be able to buy the same brands you are used to taking in your home country, and staff at pharmacies usually only speak Chinese.  

(This article was originally published on June 9, 2023 , and was last updated on November 29 , 2023.)

China Briefing is written and produced by Dezan Shira & Associates . The practice assists foreign investors into China and has done so since 1992 through offices in Beijing, Tianjin, Dalian, Qingdao, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Ningbo, Suzhou, Guangzhou, Dongguan, Zhongshan, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong. Please contact the firm for assistance in China at [email protected] .

Dezan Shira & Associates has offices in Vietnam , Indonesia , Singapore , United States , Germany , Italy , India , Dubai (UAE) , and Russia , in addition to our trade research facilities along the Belt & Road Initiative . We also have partner firms assisting foreign investors in The Philippines , Malaysia , Thailand , Bangladesh .

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Wang Yi Introduces New Measures to Facilitate Cross-Border Travel

On March 7, 2024, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi talked about how will China’s diplomacy better serve Chinese modernization when he met the press during the NPC and CPPCC sessions.

Wang Yi said economic diplomacy is an important part of our external work. China will continue to take steps to facilitate visits to and from China, including more convenient payment. Wang Yi shares that starting from March 14, China will further extend, on a pilot basis, visa exemption to six countries including Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium and Luxembourg. China hopes more countries will offer Chinese citizens visa facilitation, and work with China to build fast-track networks for cross-border travels and encourage speedy resumption of international passenger flights. This will make it more convenient for Chinese citizens to travel abroad, and make foreign friends feel at home in China. More tours outside the capital city will be organized for foreign diplomats in China, and more bridges will be built for local governments and businesses to engage in international cooperation. The Foreign Ministry will cooperate with competent departments to work on the negotiation and signing of more high-standard free trade agreements, expanding a global-oriented network of free trade areas, and safeguarding the steady and smooth functioning of global industrial, supply and data chains. Joint efforts will be made to strengthen the various platforms for international cooperation, including the China International Import Expo (CIIE), the China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS), the China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE), and the China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE). More steps will be taken to make the business environment more market-oriented, law-based and up to international standards in an effort to stabilize expectations and provide longer-term benefits to global investors and partners.

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Keep safe and stay vigilant while overseas, says MFA in latest travel advisory

SINGAPORE - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has reminded Singaporeans travelling abroad to stay vigilant in the wake of terrorist attacks around the world.

"In recent months, there have been attacks on civilian targets that include areas popular with tourists and locals," MFA said in a travel advisory issued on Friday (Dec 23).

There were three major attacks in December: at the Breitscheidplatz Christmas Market in Berlin on Dec 19, at St Mark's Coptic Cathedral Complex in Cairo on Dec 11, and at the Besiktas Stadium in Istanbul on Dec 10.

Countries including Malaysia, Indonesia and Australia have also successfully thwarted planned terror attacks.

"As a precaution during this holiday season, local authorities in many countries in our immediate region and other parts of the world have raised their level of alertness and tightened security," MFA said.

MFA reminded Singaporeans to be cautious and vigilant while abroad, and to take the following steps:

• Stay in touch with your family and friends so that they know how to contact you. It will be good to share your travel itinerary with them, and in the event of an emergency, do let them know that you are safe.
• eRegister with the MFA ( https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg/ or the MFA@SG App) so that the Ministry can contact you should there be a need. Upon e-registration, MFA will send you details of the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission based on your travel itinerary, so that you have our contact details within easy reach on your mobile device in the event of an emergency.
• Stay current with the media coverage of local events and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Factor recent developments into your travel plans and activities.
• Exercise caution around large gatherings and avoid locations known for demonstrations or disturbances.
• Take all necessary precautions to ensure your personal safety, and remain vigilant and alert to local security developments.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities in an emergency. Be prepared for additional security screening and unexpected disruptions.
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance and be familiar with the terms and coverage.

Singaporeans overseas who require emergency consular assistance can call the MFA duty office (24-hours) at +65-63798800/8855, e-mail them at [email protected] , or get in touch with the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission.

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For Singaporeans Travelling to China

24 Mar 2020

Singaporeans who intend to proceed with travel to China, despite the Singapore Ministry of Health’s Public Health Travel Advisory on 18 March 2020 advising Singaporeans to defer all travel abroad with immediate effect, should take note that the Civil Aviation Administration of China has announced that starting from 23 March 2020 at 0000hrs, all international flights bound for Beijing will be diverted to the following 12 first points of entry: Tianjin, Shijiazhuang, Taiyuan, Hohhot, Shanghai Pudong, Jinan, Qingdao, Nanjing, Shenyang, Dalian, Zhengzhou and Xi’an. Passengers on these international flights will undergo health and customs/immigration checks as well as baggage checks at the first points of entry. Passengers who pass the medical checks can thereafter fly to Beijing on the original flight. Otherwise, they may be subject to quarantine in their first points of entry. In view of this development, Singaporeans travelling from Singapore to Beijing are strongly advised to check with their respective airlines on the updated flight plans before they proceed with travelling.

Singaporeans travelling to China, or those currently in China and considering travelling to other provinces within China, may be subject to home or institutional quarantine for 14 days, depending on the province that they are travelling to. Singaporeans transiting from international to domestic flights in China may also be subject to swab tests and will have to wait for the test results at the transiting airport (which can take up to 24 hours) before they are allowed to board their next flight. Before travelling, Singaporeans are strongly advised to check with the local authorities, as well as the hotel or residential compound that they will be staying in, on the quarantine and other policies that they should adhere to.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a ministry of the Government of Singapore responsible for conducting and managing diplomatic relations between Singapore and other countries and regions.

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• Reviewed: 14 December 2023, 10:25 NZDT
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If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice  here , alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Exercise increased caution

Exercise increased caution  in China (Level 2 of 4).

Crime China has low crime rates generally, however petty theft targeting foreigners such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and theft of passports, laptops and cellphones occurs. You should take appropriate steps to ensure that your belongings are secure, particularly on public transport, in popular tourist locations and shopping districts. New Zealanders should also be wary of ATM and credit card fraud, and only use ATMs in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business. There is also some risk of receiving counterfeit currency.

While serious crime, such as personal attacks against foreigners is relatively rare, incidents can occur, including through drinks being spiked. Care should be taken to ensure your food and drink is never left unattended. We recommend against accepting drinks from strangers or recent acquaintances.

There is a risk of armed banditry in remote areas bordering Pakistan, Myanmar, Laos, Viet Nam and Russia. Be vigilant if travelling in these areas.

Terrorism Terrorist attacks are possible in China. New Zealanders in China are advised to pay close attention to their personal security at all times, monitor local media for security threats and follow any instructions issued by local authorities.

Scams New Zealanders should be wary of scams targeting tourists when travelling in China. Common scams involve a tourist being invited for a massage, tea tasting or to a café or bar for a variety of reasons including to practice English. The tourist is then pressured to pay an exorbitant bill which may be accompanied with threats of violence, assault and credit card skimming.

Civil Unrest Demonstrations occur from time to time and there has been civil unrest in the Xinjiang Uyghur and Tibet Autonomous Regions that has sometimes led to violence. The Chinese Government prohibits unpermitted demonstrations and unauthorised public gatherings may be dispersed by force. New Zealanders in China are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations and comply with any instructions and restrictions issued by the local authorities.

Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region There have been instances of violent unrest. Increased security measures are in place. People of Uyghur descent are particularly affected. Security checks, curfews and restrictions on movement may be imposed or adjusted with little warning. Carry photo identification at all times.

Tibet Autonomous Region Travel to the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) by foreigners requires a permit and participation in an organised tour. Entry conditions for foreigners are subject to change by the local authorities at short notice. Even if they already have been granted a travel permit, New Zealanders intending to travel to the TAR should check with their travel agent for updates before departure.

Severe Weather Events China can experience severe weather events, such as typhoons, especially May – November, affecting southern and eastern coastal regions in particular. Contact your travel operator or airline for the latest departure information, and monitor local weather forecasts.  If there is a severe weather event, or natural disaster, follow the advice of the local authorities and update your family and friends in New Zealand about your situation.

General Travel Advice Visa restrictions are strictly enforced in China. If you require a full visa you must obtain this prior to travel. Transit visas (issued on arrival) are available for some short visits, however, strict conditions apply, including the need to remain within a specified area and to provide evidence of onward travel to a third destination within a specified time limit. Visa and other entry and exit conditions can change at short notice, New Zealanders should contact the nearest Embassy of China or Consulate of China for up-to-date information.

Foreign nationals must register their place of residence with the Public Security Bureau within 24 hours of arrival in China or face fines and/or detention. Registering with a hotel will often fulfil this requirement; if unsure, advice should be sought from the Chinese authorities.  New Zealanders in China are also advised to carry their passport at all times. Police may undertake random checks and failure to provide identification may result in fines and/or detention.

New Zealanders should be aware that China has strict laws in relation to national security which may be interpreted broadly. Key concepts like ‘state security’, ‘national interest’, and ‘state secrets’ may have wide-ranging definitions in Chinese law. You could break the law without intending to and for activities that are not illegal in New Zealand. Travellers should be aware that public communications, including social media, may be monitored. Political statements critical of Chinese authorities could attract the attention of police.

Chinese authorities can place an exit ban upon individuals to prevent them leaving the country. An exit ban may relate directly or indirectly to any investigation Chinese authorities deem relevant, including criminal, civil or commercial matters. You may not be aware of the exit ban until you attempt to leave China.

China does not recognise dual nationality. Dual citizens travelling to China on a Chinese passport or identity card may not be granted access to New Zealand consular assistance. Travellers should read our advice on dual citizenship  here .

If you have formally renounced Chinese citizenship, you should carry clear evidence that you have done so.

New Zealanders are urged to take note of China’s strict, and stringently enforced, laws against the possession, use or sale of illegal substances. Local authorities may undertake random drug tests and have conducted on the spot drug tests (urine or hair) in nightclubs and bars. If you test positive, the Chinese authorities may prosecute you regardless of where or when you consumed the drugs. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include fines, lengthy imprisonment or the death penalty.

Air pollution levels may particularly affect children, the elderly and those with pre-existing heart and lung conditions. Some cities maintain air pollution alert systems and will issue a red alert when pollution is expected to be especially bad. You can check the pollution index levels for Beijing and other cities on the  Air Quality Index website .

New Zealanders travelling or living in China should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders in China are encouraged to  register their details  with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s SafeTravel website.

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The New Zealand Embassy Beijing, China

Street Address 1 Ritan Dongerjie, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100600 Telephone +86 10 8532 7000 Email [email protected] Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/china Hours Mon - Fri 0830 - 1700 hrs

New Zealand Consulate-General Guangzhou, China

Street Address Suite 3006, TaiKoo Hui Tower 1, 385 Tianhe Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510620 Telephone +86 20 8931 9600 Fax +86 20 8931 9610 Email [email protected] Web Site www.mfat.govt.nz/china-guangzhou Hours Mon - Fri 0830 - 1700 hrs

New Zealand Consulate-General Shanghai, China

Street Address 2801-2802A & 2806B-2810, Corporate Avenue 5, 150 Hu Bin Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai 200021 Telephone +86 21 5407 5858 Fax +86 21 5407 5068 Email [email protected] Web Site www.mfat.govt.nz/china-shanghai Hours Mon - Fri 0830 - 1200, 1300 - 1700 hrs

See our regional advice for North Asia

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Log on to safetravel before you take off.

SafeTravel is the official source of travel advice for New Zealanders, with advisories for specific destinations. Checking SafeTravel helps you avoid travel blackspots.

On SafeTravel you can also register your details and travel plans. If a crisis occurs overseas, MFAT will contact New Zealanders who have registered to check their safety and wellbeing.

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While you are overseas, make sure you respect cultural norms and obey local laws.

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ENTERING AND LEAVING THE COUNTRY To enter and stay in the People’s Republic of China for up to 30 days, citizens of the Republic of Serbia do not need a visa. Hong Kong: Holders of valid passports of the Republic of Serbia may enter the territory of Hong Kong SAR without a visa for stays of up to 14 days. Macao: Holders of valid passports of the Republic of Serbia may enter the territory of Macao SAR without a visa and stay there up to 90 days within a period of 180 days.

SOCIAL SECURITY AGREEMENT Social Security Agreement signed between the Government of the Republic of Serbia and the Government of the People’s Republic of China on 8 June 2018, entered into force on 1 February 2021. The Agreement regulates certain issues concerning compulsory pension and disability insurance, as well as unemployment insurance.

USEFUL INFORMATION

HEALTH SITUATION — Health situation is normal. There are no preventive measures in force.

SECURITY SITUATION — High-level security.

TRANSPORT — All types of transport are functional, highly efficient, and affordable. Agreement on mutual recognition and exchange of driver's licenses between R. Serbia and the People's Republic of China – since March 13, 2022

OTHER INFORMATION — All payments are effected in the national currency (yuan ― RMB) only; also, payments can be effected with standard credit and debit cards (VISA, MasterCard, etc.). Exchange of all convertible currencies to yuan and vice versa is performed in Chinese banks without any problem.

Contact information: During your stay in the People’s Republic of China, for consular assistance and protection, you may contact: The Embassy of the Republic of Serbia in Beijing (Address: San Li Tun, Dong 6 Jie 1, 100600 BEIJING,  P.R. OF CHINA), at the following telephone numbers: 00 8610 / 65 32 35 16, 65 32 30 16, 65 32 54 13, 65 32 16 93, and e-mail:  [email protected] ; Consulate General of the Republic of Serbia in Shanghai (Address: Rm, 801, No.1, Lane 60, Lyon Garden, Ronghua East Road, Gu Bei New Area, SHANGHAI 201103, P.C. OF CHINA), at the following telephone numbers: 00 8621 / 62 08 13 88, 62 08 18 99, and e-mail address:  [email protected] .

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Press release

Travel advisory to china.

The Department of Foreign Affairs is in accord with the Ministry of Health in its recent travel advisory to China, due to the outbreak of the Coronavirus.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and the Seychelles Embassy in Beijing, China, continue to monitor the situation and will keep the public updated regularly.

Please refer to the Ministry of Health’s press release on Facebook for more details:

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1308193762715085&id=666024463598688

Ms. Beryl Samson

Ms. Samson was on 22 June 1971, Victoria, Mahe

She graduated from the Murdoch University (Economics and Business Studies), Perth, Western Australia in 1997 where she obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Economics (BSc) – Economics.

Following her graduation, she attended short courses in various fields such as Environmental Economics, Public Economics, Information Technology, Cross Cultural Phycology, Accounting and Marketing, Diplomacy, Trade Negotiations, Economic Planning and Management.

She started her career as an Economist with the Ministry of External Relations on 19 April 1999. She was promoted to the position of Senior Economist on 1 June 2001 and remained in that position until 17 January 2007. From then, she became Director of Economic Planning and later Director of International Cooperation until she assumed the position of Director General of the Department of Development and Regional Integration on 15 September 2008. On 20 June 2011 she was posted to the Embassy of Seychelles to the Kingdom of Belgium in the position of Minister Counsellor. On 15 August she returned to headquarters to take up the position of Principal Counsellor in the Office of the Principal Secretary and Advisor to the Department of Development and Regional Integration and Deputy to the National Authorizing Officer to the European Union (EU).

She was appointed Ambassador on 9 August 2016.

Following her appointment, she was posted to New York and assumed the position of Deputy Permanent Representative – Permanent Mission of the Republic of Seychelles to the United Nations. She was accredited as Ambassador of the Republic of Seychelles to the Kingdom of Belgium on 26 May 2018.

Ambassador Samson enjoys reading, sports, travel, arts and fashion, music, and she loves nature.

Mrs. Lalatiana Accouche

Mrs. Accouche was born on 23 December 1964.

Accouche’ s career in the Seychelles diplomatic service spans over 30 years. It started in June 1991 after she completed her studies in the field of Social Sciences in Cuba and joined the Seychelles Foreign Ministry as Economic Cooperation Officer, being responsible for various bilateral dossiers. She also followed diplomatic training in various countries such as Spain, Mexico, Egypt, South Africa and China.

In January 2010, after having occupied different posts which allowed her to look after most of the bilateral and multilateral dossiers of the Ministry, she was appointed Diplomatic Attaché heading the then newly established unit within the Principal Secretary Secretariat, with the responsibilities of ensuring a productive interaction between the headquarters and all Seychelles Diplomatic Missions abroad, and also coordinating the activities of about eighty Honorary Consuls who were representing Seychelles all over the world at that time. From September 2013 to August 2017, she was posted to the Seychelles High Commission in London, United Kingdom, in the capacity of Deputy Head of Mission/Principal Counsellor. During her posting, she was also acting as Seychelles Assistant Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). On her return from London, she was deployed, in October 2017, to the then newly opened Seychelles Embassy in Havana, Cuba, where she served as Deputy Head of Mission/Principal Counsellor for a period of three months before taking over the full command of the Mission as Chargé d’ Affairs a.i .

In May 2019, she was appointed Ambassador.

Following her appointment, she was accredited as the second resident Ambassador of Seychelles to the Republic of Cuba. She was also concurrently accredited to Jamaica, Mexico and Nicaragua among the 30 countries of the Latin America and Caribbean regions and regional organisations falling under Havana jurisdiction.

After the closure of the Seychelles Embassy in Havana as result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ambassador Accouche was based at headquarters and assigned specific duties. She will take up her new responsibilities as Seychelles High Commissioner to the Republic of India following her accreditation to the Head of State.

She is fluent in five languages. She enjoys reading, gardening, and travelling.

Mr. Ian Madeleine

Mr. Madeleine was born on 15 April 1985 in Victoria, Seychelles.

In 2008 he attended Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia, where he later graduated with a Bachelor in Secondary Education (Social Science) in 2009.  In 2013 Mr. Madeleine pursued an International Master of Public Administration with the Tsinghua University in Beijing, focusing on foreign policy.

He began his professional career in the Ministry of Education as a teacher in 2007 after completing his Diploma in Secondary Education, with specialization in Social Science. After graduating he returned to the teaching profession until he transferred to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2011 as a Third Secretary in the Consular Affairs Section of the Protocol, Treaties and Consular Affairs Division. In that capacity, he managed the consular services of the Ministry including the appointment of Honorary Consuls.

After obtaining his Master’s degree, he was promoted to Second Secretary in the International Relations Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and was assigned the Western Europe desk. From 2015 to 2017 he served at the Embassy of Seychelles in Paris, France, as a Second Secretary and assisted the serving Ambassador with Seychelles’ representation to those countries and international organizations under the mission’s jurisdiction, including UNESCO, OIF, OECD, IAEA, FAO. He also served as Charge d’Affaires a.i. at the Embassy in 2017. Mr. Madeleine returned to Seychelles in 2017 after having been promoted to Director of Protocol, and becoming responsible for State Protocol. In 2019 he was appointed as Director for Maritime Affairs, and was tasked with setting up a newly created section within the Ministry, mandated to develop cooperation in the maritime domain and consolidating Seychelles’ leadership role in maritime security. In 2021 he assumed the position of Director for Regional Affairs, overseeing the Regional Security and Maritime Affairs section.

He was appointed as Ambassador on 17 June 2021. He is currently accredited to the United States of America and the United Nations as Seychelles Permanent Representative.

Mrs. Anne Lafortune

Mrs. Lafortune was born on 8 April 1961 in Sabah, Borneo, Malaysia.

She completed her studies at the University of Edith Cowan in Australia and Bristol University in the UK.

She started her career in education. She was formally the Director of the Seychelles Polytechnic and later took the position of Director General for Technical and Further Education of the Ministry of Education. She became the Principal Secretary for Health and Social Development in 2007. She has also occupied the position of Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Institute of Management and the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Officers’ Ethics Commission.

In 2013 she was appointed as the Principal Secretary for Tourism in the then Ministry of Tourism and Culture, a position that she maintained until her recent appointment as Ambassador. She has participated actively in a number of tourism-related conferences, meetings and workshops both regionally and internationally including the Global Conference on Sustainable Blue Economy and the International Island Tourism Conference (ITTCS). She was the focal point for two major international tourism organisations namely, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) where she represented her country. She was also a member of the SADC Senior Officials Committee responsible for tourism and the Indian Ocean Vanilla Islands Tourism Association.

On the local front, Mrs. Lafortune participated on a number of Government boards including Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority, Seychelles Investment Board, Seychelles Licensing Authority and Seychelles Broadcasting Corporation.

She was appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Seychelles on 17 June 2021. She is currently based in Beijing, China.

Oversees the daily operations of the Protocol Unit and tasked with ensuring that privileges and immunities accorded to members of the Diplomatic Missions, Consular Posts and offices of International Organisations are in line with relevant international conventions and practices, relevant Agreements and local Laws and Policies.

International Maritime Organization (IMO)

International Hydrographic Organization (IHO)

Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF)

Contact Group on Piracy off the coast of Somalia (CGPCS)

Southern African Development Community (SADC)

UN Counter-Terrorism Centre of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT-UNCCT)

Regional Center on Small Arms (RECSA)

UN Counter-Terrorism Centre of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT-UNCCT) Regional Center on Small Arms (RECSA)

African Union (AU)

United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA)

United Nations African Institute for the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of Offenders (UNAFRI)

African Development Bank (AFDB)

Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA)

Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA)

Eastern Africa Police Chiefs Cooperation (EAPCCO)

International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL)

Provides support to the Regional Security and Maritime Affairs Section.

Provides support to the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) dossier.

Desk officer for United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)

Responsible for the processing of documents requiring authentication and/ or legalization and provides administrative assistance to the Division.

Responsible to provide guidance to the public in relation to Diplomatic and Official passports and to coordinate all matters regarding the arrest and detention of Seychellois citizens abroad and of visitors in Seychelles.

Responsible to provide consular assistance to Seychellois travelling abroad and to visitors in distress in Seychelles.

Also facilitates the visa process for government officials on overseas missions and provides information on visa requirements to Seychellois travelling abroad.

Responsible to promote the interest of Seychelles nationals abroad, engage and interact with them,  facilitate their queries and provide the necessary guidance in connecting further with Seychelles.

Responsible to coordinate all matters regarding Seychelles Honorary Consuls such as, the appointment process of new Honorary Consuls, compilation and analysis of progress reports submitted by Honorary Consuls on the work they are doing in their respective jurisdiction or on specific projects they are undertaking, among others.

Also coordinates the appointment process of Honorary Consuls of Foreign States.

Johnette Stephen

Principal Counsellor

Gervais Moumou was born on 29 September 1982 in Victoria, Mahe, Seychelles.

Mr. Moumou graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education and Sports from the Escuela de Educación Física y Deporte in Havana, Cuba, in 2008. In 2019, he obtained a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Leicester, United Kingdom. He also has a Diploma in Diplomacy, which he obtained from the Diplomatic Institute of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Portugal.

On 1 March 2021, he was promoted to the position of Chief of Protocol with additional responsibility for Public Diplomacy, a unit dedicated to promote Seychelles’ Foreign Policy and increase the Department’s and the country’s visibility locally and internationally.

Middle East/Asia/Pacific 2

Middle East/Asia/Pacific 1

Africa/indian ocean 2.

Gervais Moumou

Chief of Protocol

Portfolio responsibility

Ambassador of Seychelles to the United States of America and Permanent Representative of Seychelles to the United Nations

He is married and has two children.

Mr. Conrad Mederic

Mr. Mederic was born on 24 April 1966, in Victoria, Seychelles.

He graduated from the University of New Delhi, India in 1991 where he obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science.

His professional life commenced at the Ministry of External Relations, Republic of Seychelles as a Trainee Third Secretary which was then followed by an 8-year stint, until 2007, as First Secretary with responsibility for South Asia, South- East Asia, G-77, NAM and with sectoral responsibilities for Trade, Industries and Investment. From there onwards, he served as Director General for Bilateral Affairs under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for a period of two years, taking over duties as Director General for Protocol, Treaties and Consular Affairs from 2009 until 2011.

Mr. Mederic was also a member of the board of the Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA), and briefly occupied the post of Interim Chairman from March to August 2011.

In July 2011, he was posted to the High Commission of Seychelles in Pretoria, South Africa as Principal Counsellor. In 2014 he was mandated to establish the first Seychelles High Commission in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

He was appointed Ambassador in December 2016. Following this appointment, he was posted to Colombo, Sri Lanka and was accredited on 28 June 2017. He ended his tour of duty in Sri Lanka in January 2021 and was assigned responsibilities at headquarters until his posting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on 30 October 2021. He was accredited as Ambassador of Seychelles to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. He was also accredited to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) on 6 May 2022 and the African Union Commission (AUC) on 20 May 2022

His hobbies include exploring foreign cultures, following international events, and he is also an avid reader.

A family man at heart, Mr. Mederic is the father of three children and currently resides in Seychelles.

Mr. Kenneth Jacques Gervais Racombo was born on the 3 January 1977 in Victoria, Mahe, Seychelles.

Bertrand Rassool

(1990-1994).

Mrs. Patsy Moustache

Ag. High Commissioner of Seychelles in the United Kingdom

High Commission of the Republic of Seychelles Ground Floor, 130-132 Buckingham Palace Road London SWlW 9SA, England, United Kingdom Tel: +44 [O] 20 773 020 46 Email: [email protected]

Jacques Belle

Principal Counsellor/Ministre Conseiller

Ambassade des Seychelles 51 Avenue Mozart, 75016, Paris, France Tel: [+33 1] 42 30 57 47 Email : [email protected]

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The huge solar storm is keeping power grid and satellite operators on edge

Geoff Brumfiel

Willem Marx

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm. Solar Dynamics Observatory hide caption

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm.

Planet Earth is getting rocked by the biggest solar storm in decades – and the potential effects have those people in charge of power grids, communications systems and satellites on edge.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm that has been visible as aurora across vast swathes of the Northern Hemisphere. So far though, NOAA has seen no reports of major damage.

The Picture Show

Photos: see the northern lights from rare, solar storm.

There has been some degradation and loss to communication systems that rely on high-frequency radio waves, NOAA told NPR, as well as some preliminary indications of irregularities in power systems.

"Simply put, the power grid operators have been busy since yesterday working to keep proper, regulated current flowing without disruption," said Shawn Dahl, service coordinator for the Boulder, Co.-based Space Weather Prediction Center at NOAA.

NOAA Issues First Severe Geomagnetic Storm Watch Since 2005

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"Satellite operators are also busy monitoring spacecraft health due to the S1-S2 storm taking place along with the severe-extreme geomagnetic storm that continues even now," Dahl added, saying some GPS systems have struggled to lock locations and offered incorrect positions.

NOAA's GOES-16 satellite captured a flare erupting occurred around 2 p.m. EDT on May 9, 2024.

As NOAA had warned late Friday, the Earth has been experiencing a G5, or "Extreme," geomagnetic storm . It's the first G5 storm to hit the planet since 2003, when a similar event temporarily knocked out power in part of Sweden and damaged electrical transformers in South Africa.

The NOAA center predicted that this current storm could induce auroras visible as far south as Northern California and Alabama.

Extreme (G5) geomagnetic conditions have been observed! pic.twitter.com/qLsC8GbWus — NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (@NWSSWPC) May 10, 2024

Around the world on social media, posters put up photos of bright auroras visible in Russia , Scandinavia , the United Kingdom and continental Europe . Some reported seeing the aurora as far south as Mallorca, Spain .

The source of the solar storm is a cluster of sunspots on the sun's surface that is 17 times the diameter of the Earth. The spots are filled with tangled magnetic fields that can act as slingshots, throwing huge quantities of charged particles towards our planet. These events, known as coronal mass ejections, become more common during the peak of the Sun's 11-year solar cycle.

A powerful solar storm is bringing northern lights to unusual places

Usually, they miss the Earth, but this time, NOAA says several have headed directly toward our planet, and the agency predicted that several waves of flares will continue to slam into the Earth over the next few days.

While the storm has proven to be large, predicting the effects from such incidents can be difficult, Dahl said.

Shocking problems

The most disruptive solar storm ever recorded came in 1859. Known as the "Carrington Event," it generated shimmering auroras that were visible as far south as Mexico and Hawaii. It also fried telegraph systems throughout Europe and North America.

Stronger activity on the sun could bring more displays of the northern lights in 2024

While this geomagnetic storm will not be as strong, the world has grown more reliant on electronics and electrical systems. Depending on the orientation of the storm's magnetic field, it could induce unexpected electrical currents in long-distance power lines — those currents could cause safety systems to flip, triggering temporary power outages in some areas.

my cat just experienced the aurora borealis, one of the world's most radiant natural phenomena... and she doesn't care pic.twitter.com/Ee74FpWHFm — PJ (@kickthepj) May 10, 2024

The storm is also likely to disrupt the ionosphere, a section of Earth's atmosphere filled with charged particles. Some long-distance radio transmissions use the ionosphere to "bounce" signals around the globe, and those signals will likely be disrupted. The particles may also refract and otherwise scramble signals from the global positioning system, according to Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist with NOAA. Those effects can linger for a few days after the storm.

Like Dahl, Steenburgh said it's unclear just how bad the disruptions will be. While we are more dependent than ever on GPS, there are also more satellites in orbit. Moreover, the anomalies from the storm are constantly shifting through the ionosphere like ripples in a pool. "Outages, with any luck, should not be prolonged," Steenburgh said.

What Causes The Northern Lights? Scientists Finally Know For Sure

The radiation from the storm could have other undesirable effects. At high altitudes, it could damage satellites, while at low altitudes, it's likely to increase atmospheric drag, causing some satellites to sink toward the Earth.

The changes to orbits wreak havoc, warns Tuija Pulkkinen, chair of the department of climate and space sciences at the University of Michigan. Since the last solar maximum, companies such as SpaceX have launched thousands of satellites into low Earth orbit. Those satellites will now see their orbits unexpectedly changed.

"There's a lot of companies that haven't seen these kind of space weather effects before," she says.

The International Space Station lies within Earth's magnetosphere, so its astronauts should be mostly protected, Steenburgh says.

In a statement, NASA said that astronauts would not take additional measures to protect themselves. "NASA completed a thorough analysis of recent space weather activity and determined it posed no risk to the crew aboard the International Space Station and no additional precautionary measures are needed," the agency said late Friday.

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England. Ian Forsyth/Getty Images hide caption

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England.

While this storm will undoubtedly keep satellite operators and utilities busy over the next few days, individuals don't really need to do much to get ready.

"As far as what the general public should be doing, hopefully they're not having to do anything," Dahl said. "Weather permitting, they may be visible again tonight." He advised that the largest problem could be a brief blackout, so keeping some flashlights and a radio handy might prove helpful.

I took these photos near Ranfurly in Central Otago, New Zealand. Anyone can use them please spread far and wide. :-) https://t.co/NUWpLiqY2S — Dr Andrew Dickson reform/ACC (@AndrewDickson13) May 10, 2024

And don't forget to go outside and look up, adds Steenburgh. This event's aurora is visible much further south than usual.

A faint aurora can be detected by a modern cell phone camera, he adds, so even if you can't see it with your eyes, try taking a photo of the sky.

The aurora "is really the gift from space weather," he says.

• space weather
• solar flares
• solar storm