travel to china from uk pcr test

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News and Insights

Latest news, latest testing requirements for travel from uk to china.

1. People going to China are required to take two nucleic acid rt-PCR tests within 48 hours before departure, and at least one of the nucleic acid rt-PCR tests should be taken within 12 hours before departure. For flights departing from the UK between 0:00 and 18:00, if it is difficult to conduct the last PCR nucleic acid test sampling within 12 hours before departure, a second PCR nucleic acid test sampling can be conducted within 24 hours before departure, and a rapid antigen test can be added within 12 hours before departure.

2. The relevant tests shall be conducted in designated institutions (please click on the "Read more" at the end of the article to check the list of designated institution). Passengers can decide to do all tests in the same inspection institutions or choose to do so at a combination of different locations. Personnel with negative test results can then apply for the health code at the Chinese Embassy or Consulates General: Chinese citizens apply through the WeChat mini-programme called "Epidemic Prevention Code, International Edition", while foreigners apply through the web version of the health declaration form.

3. When submitting the health code application, the following materials are required:  all test reports, the passport information pages, and an air ticket itinerary . Other materials are not required unless specially requested by the embassy or consulate at the destination. Please click " Read more " for more information. For those who combine different tests at different testing institutions, when applying, please select the institution that performed the last nucleic acid rt-PCR test as your testing institution.

4. The Chinese Embassy or Consulates General in the UK will issue health codes to eligible passengers in a timely manner. Considering that it takes time to verify the health codes, travelers to China are suggested to submit the application  at least three hours  before departure from the UK and keep mobile phone communication unblocked to avoid missing calls.

5.  People with a history of infection are required to start pre-examination at least six weeks in advance and only require two nucleic acid rt-PCR test reports after recovery . There is no specific institution where one must conduct the test, but the test report must indicate that they are PCR tests. Please submit your pre-examination application to the Chinese Embassy and or corresponding Consulate-General according to your region. The contact information are as follows:

The Chinese Embassy in the UK

[email protected]

The Chinese Consulate General in Manchester

[email protected]

The Chinese Consulate General in Edinburgh

[email protected]

The Chinese Consulate General in Belfast

[email protected]

6. The requirements for close contacts and people with suspected symptoms remain unchanged.

7. After landing in the UK (including Gibraltar), the crew will be tested and apply for a health code in accordance with the requirements of ordinary travelers to China.  There is no need to be quarantined for 14 days .

8. During the transition period from the date of this notice to  23rd May , health codes will be issued to those who are tested in accordance with the new and old requirements.

9. The testing requirements are adjusted based on the Covid situation and we will continue to make adjustments to the relevant requirements when needed. The global Covid situation is still serious and there is a high risk of cross-infection among international travelers. The Chinese Embassy or Consulates General in the UK would like to remind everyone to try to avoid long-distance or cross-border travel, and not to travel if it is not essential nor urgent: " non-essential, non-urgent, do not travel. "

This article is subject to the Chinese Embassy in the UK. Please click here to see the original notice.

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Latest UK-China travel updates – flights, entry requirements and visa processes

Following the relaxing of pandemic-related travel restrictions, including quarantine requirements for inbound travellers, British and Chinese airlines are resuming their regular services to China for the first time in over two years.

The British Chamber looks forward to increased business engagement in 2023 as a result of these changes – read on to find out more about the latest flights available, entry policies and visa requirements.

Flights between the UK and China increasing

British Airways (BA) and Virgin Atlantic have both announced that they will reinstate their daily flights to China – BA’s flight Shanghai-bound flight will depart from Heathrow on 23 April, while Beijing-bound flights will begin from 3 June, operating four flights a week.

Virgin Atlantic will also resume flights to Shanghai, with the first flight leaving on 1 May. Several Chinese airlines are also operating direct flights to China, including Air China (to Beijing), China Southern (to Guangzhou), and China Eastern (to Shanghai).

There are of course many other flight routes to China involving transfer via Europe, Hong Kong, or other destinations – if taking a non-direct route, please note pandemic/visa requirements in the transit country as well.

Click here to read more about the new flights (in English), or visit airlines’ websites directly for full ticketing information.

Entry requirements to China

As of 8 January 2023, all travellers to China need a negative PCR test to enter the country – this should be done within 48 hours of your flight TO CHINA  – please note these timings if you are transiting through a third country. Tests are available at major UK airports including Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and Edinburgh airports, or you can search for a local provider. Companies such as Randox have multiple locations across the UK providing PCR tests for travel – click here to read the full list of Randox testing locations.

This test result will be checked upon your departure from the UK, and a physical printout is recommended. You will also be asked to fill in a Health Declaration Form from China Customs on arrival in China – a QR code will be available to scan and complete this form upon arrival.

Please note all children over 2 years old also require a negative PCR test result.

Entry requirements to the UK

If you are travelling to the UK from China, you are also required to take a pre-departure Covid test (as of 5 January 2023) for anyone aged 12 and over. Please note the test result must include ENGLISH translation – please check in advance with your local hospitals to find one which can provide testing in English.

The test can be either printed or in the form of an email or text message – to read the full list of requirements, please click here to visit the UK government website.

Visa requirements

Getting a chinese visa as a uk national.

Applications for business visas, work visas and other visa types are open, although tourist visas remain unavailable for the time being.

The UK has Chinese visa centres in London, Manchester, Edinburgh and Belfast. After making an online application, applicants will be required to attend the visa centre in person and have their fingerprints collected (excepting children 13 and under, and adults 70 and over).

To find out more about Chinese visa requirements and to apply directly, click here to see the latest announcement from the Chinese Embassy in the UK (updated on 8 January 2023).

Getting a visa for the United Kingdom as a Chinese national

The visa type you need will depend on the purpose and length of your stay – the UK government has a tool on their website for you to check the visa type you need to apply for. There are 15 UK visa centres in China; please note you will need to apply online and confirm your appointment before attending in person.

Click here to find out more about how to get a UK visa – guidance available in Chinese once you select which visa you are applying for. To find out where your nearest UK visa centre is and what you need to bring, please click here .

Please note that this article is up-to-date as of its publication on 6 February 2023. Travel requirements may change at any moment – we recommend you follow the links provided in this article to the UK government websites and Chinese Embassy in the UK for the most up-to-date information.

If you or your business are facing any issues with flights, visas or entry requirements, please let us know at:

[email protected]

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Can I travel to China? Travel rules from the UK explained 

By Connor Sturges

In December 2019, a cluster of Chinese citizens in Wuhan reported mysterious flu-like symptoms in what became the start of a pandemic that would change the world as we knew it. Countries closed their borders and leading scientists embarked on a mission to create effective vaccines, leading many travellers to rediscover the wonders on their doorsteps and the concept of the great British staycation .

Fast forward to January 2023, and China is welcoming tourists once again. Hundreds of millions of Chinese citizens will be hoping to travel domestically to join family ahead of Chinese New Year and see in the Year of the Rabbit, while curious international travellers are adding the country to their bucket lists once again for the year ahead.

These are the entry requirements, and the UK government's advice, as of Monday 9 January 2023.

Can I travel to China from the UK, and back again?

Yes, with some restrictions. After almost three years of Covid stalling China’s tourism industry, Thursday 5 January 2023 marked the opening of China’s borders to the world once again. However, as of Monday 9 January 2023, China remains in the midst of a Covid surge, meaning strict rules are in place for travellers wishing to visit the country.

What are the entry requirements for China?

Since international flights to China resumed on Thursday 5 January 2023, all travellers are required to take a pre-departure PCR Covid test in the 48 hours prior to travel. 

Once confirmed, a negative PCR test result can be submitted by filling in a health declaration form on the  China customs website . Negative results can also be submitted on the China customs app or a registered WeChat account. 

Travellers who display symptoms of fever on arrival in China may be asked to take a further antigen test. Self-quarantine will be imposed in the event of a positive test result and mild symptoms, while travellers can be sent to medical institutions for treatment if symptoms are more severe.

The UK government website recommends that all travellers pack a supply of medication to treat flu-like symptoms. It is also recommended that accommodation is stocked with additional food, water and medical supplies in case you are mandated to isolate.

What are the rules on returning to the UK from China?

All travellers aged 12 and over must obtain a negative pre-departure Covid test result no more than two days prior to travelling back from mainland China to the UK. Results are checked by airlines and Border Force officials in the UK. These rules currently apply to travellers on direct and indirect flights, and those arriving in England as a final destination plus anyone transiting through England.

Test results can be provided in the form of a printed document, an email, or text message, and must contain the following information:

• A full name that matches the name on travel documents
• Date of birth or age
• Result of the test
• Date the test sample was collected or received by the test provider
• Name of the test provider and their contact details
• Confirmation of the type of test taken, which can be a lateral flow or PCR

NHS-provided tests cannot be used as pre-departure tests. In addition to the required pre-departure tests when returning from mainland China, travellers arriving at London Heathrow Airport may be asked to undertake a voluntary test on arrival, as part of the UK government’s monitoring of potential new variants.

Are there any other entry requirements for travel to China?

According to the latest UK government website, travellers wishing to visit China on a British Citizen passport can do so by:

• Obtaining an “Invitation Letter” or “Verification Confirmation of Invitation” issued by a provincial foreign affairs office or department of commerce (M or F visa)
• Obtaining a “Notification Letter of Foreigners Work Permit” (Z visa)
• Visiting a family member with a Z, M, or F visa
• Intending to visit a family member who is a Chinese citizen or who holds a Chinese permanent residence permit
• Qualifying for a high-level talent (R) visa
• Qualifying for a transport crew (C) visa

Visa applications must be made, in person, at a Visa Application Centre. Note that biometric data (scanned fingerprints) has to be provided as part of the application process. Chinese Visa Application Centres in London , Manchester and Edinburgh are operating, but with limited opening hours. The Belfast centre remains closed.

More details, including the process for submitting forms for those still eligible, can be found on the Chinese Embassy website.

For more information and updated rules, visit the   UK government website before travelling. We also recommend ensuring you have valid   travel insurance with Covid cover before taking any trips.

Wed 1 May 2024

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Can I travel to China? Latest restrictions and advice for UK travellers after Covid rules ease

Quarantine rules have been scrapped, but only certain groups of international visitors are permitted.

China relaxed its border rules for inbound travellers on 8 January after nearly three years of stringent controls.

Quarantine requirements have been dropped for international arrivals, but travel to the country remains restricted and China is effectively closed to tourism.

The Chinese government is allowing visa applications from international visitors travelling to the country for business, employment, study or to visit family.

Who can travel to mainland China?

British nationals must have a visa to enter mainland China, including Hainan Island, but excluding Hong Kong and Macao.

As it stands, visas are only being issued to the following groups:

• Relatives of Chinese citizens or people who hold a Chinese permanent residence permit who intend to visit their family member or family members;
• People intending to visit a family member in China who holds a Z, M or F visa;
• Business travellers who have an official invitation from a provincial foreign affairs office or department of commerce;
• Applicants who have received a letter confirming a foreigners’ work permit or who qualify for a high-level talent visa;
• Applicants who qualify for a transport crew visa.

What are the new entry rules?

Travellers who are permitted to visit China are required to take a Covid PCR test and submit the result by completing the Health Declaration Form via the China Customs website or through the China Customs App or WeChat account.

Anyone who tests positive will not be permitted to board a flight to China.

Passengers who arrive in China with symptoms of fever, or whose Health Declaration is cause for concern, may be requested to take an antigen test.

Those who test positive will be required to self-isolate if the symptoms are mild, or may be required to go to a medical institution if their symptoms are more severe.

Children aged five and under are included in the requirement to apply for a Customs Code Health Declaration.

More from Travel

What are the rules for travel to Hong Kong and Macao?

Hong Kong is part of China, but it remains a Special Administrative Region with its own immigration controls.

You can visit Hong Kong for up to six months without a visa, but Covid-related rules till apply.

Vaccinated tourists can visit Hong Kong, but they will need to provide a pre-departure negative Covid test result – either from an antigen test taken no more than 24 hours prior to departure or a PCR test taken no more than 48 hours before departure.

Travellers are advised to keep photos showing the negative rapid antigen test result or the test report for a negative PCR test. They can also voluntarily declare the test result via the Department of Health’s electronic health declaration form . Further details can be found on the Hong Kong SAR Government’s website .

The vaccine pass has been scrapped, but masks are required in all indoor and outdoor public venues.

Macau is also open to travellers and you can stay for up to six months without a visa.

All overseas arrivals (except those from mainland China, Hong Kong or Taiwan) must provide a negative result from a Covid test performed within the previous 48 hours for travel to Macao. Those who opt for a rapid antigen test result should declare the result on Macao’s Rapid Antigen Test Reporting platform.

Does the UK have rules for arrivals from China?

Yes, travellers aged 12 or over arriving in England from mainland China are required to take a pre-departure Covid test .

The only direct flights running from China are to Heathrow and Manchester airports. However, passengers who travel from China via a connecting flight with a ticket showing the UK as their destination must also take a pre-departure Covid test.

Voluntary testing on arrival is in place at Heathrow for passengers from China. Those who test positive are not subject to self-isolation or quarantine. The UK says these tests will “help strengthen the UK’s ability to rapidly detect potential new variants circulating in China”.

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According to the latest travel advice , if you are planning to travel to China from the UK you must do a PCR test 24/48 hours before you are due to fly out, this is applicable even if you are fully vaccinated.

Travelling To China

The latest travel advice , for travel to China from the UK requires a negative PCR Test even if you are fully vaccinated. You must provide:

• PCR test- within 48 hours before departure and
• PCR test- within 24 hours before departure.

The entry requirements apply both to foreign as well as Chinese nationals.

At Roshni Clinic, we provide a cost-effective same-day COVID Test for Travel this includes the required tests, along with a valid Travel Certificate to be presented to the Chinese border authorities upon your arrival in the country. All testing done by Roshni Clinic is carried out by trained professionals at at all of our test locations .

Roshni Clinic is a UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service)approved laboratory.

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How does the COVID-19 PCR fit to fly test service work?

1. call clinic/book online, 2. confirm date & time, 3. fill out a consent form and any relevant paperwork, 4. sample analysis & results issued within 24-48 hours, 5. “fit to fly certificates” issued & emailed., see what our customer's say.

Cannot fault the service or speed my test was processed at. Received my test results within 18 hours.

Very good service and quick turn around

Needed a Rapid Antigen Test for a family of 4, to go on a cruise this Summer. Needed it 72 hours before embarkation. Roshni were brilliant and friendly on the phone; explaining everything they do, how it works - and that they have plenty of cruise customers for these tests. Found Rotherham Football premises quite easily. There is a large open reception area: which is essentially to serve people playing "Indoor Football". BUT - they perform these tests as "Administrators" for Roshni Clinic. It's pretty much the same as you get from these "over the web" services: where someone actually watches you take the self-test, but on their premises, in-person. They take the Barcode from your test, the sample results (which you place in a plastic bag for them) - and take digital images. These are then passed to a central laboratory; where a Clinician casts a more 'professional eye' over the test result - and then issues your certificate. We could obviously see that our tests were NEGATIVE, before we left the premises. We received an email almost immediately that the test was registered with the laboratory. We received the confirmation of negative test (with accompanying PDF certificate) in about 1-hour. Travelling with Princess cruises, we could upload the certificate to their booking/cruise application - and I have since had someone check it (over the phone) and confirm that it meets their requirements. So: now feel confident that I can fly to Rome, meet the ship - and actually board, relatively stress free. I would thoroughly recommend this service.

Quick efficient service. Very happy and highly recommended

The attendance Peter was excellent. The customer service was unbelievably great. The level of competence and patience is commendable. The employee should receive a commendation for the quality and efficiency.

Used the Harrogate location for a same-day PCR test. Everyone we spoke to was courteous and polite, and the results arrived within the specified time frame. Replies in WhatsApp were incredibly prompt - a huge reassurance!

Professional service. Good prices and straightforward process.

Booked covid test, through this clinic appointment was given straight away (10am), contacted their email and had a response within 10 minutes, and spoke to their help line at 10pm to see where my results were, the person who was helping me was Balil the CEO, he instant had my test results sent to me, incredibly helpful and professional and very understanding, would 100% recommend this clinic as they work so hard to make sure the customer is always taken care of

Great service very helpful staff definitely recommend

A very impressive service.....efficient and quick. Very reassuring too. Would use this service again.

Muhammad helped make the process clear and efficient at Rocco gym in York. Excellent customer service, a lovely young man.

After being let down by my Boots PCR test, I booked an emergency PCR test at Roshni Clinic and I was not disappointed. All the staff are so helpful and it was a really straight forward process. My results arrived in just under 8 hours! I will definitely be recommending to others and using this clinic again!

So helpful, thank you very much!!

First thing to say is ignore the map it is wrong, find Rotherham football centre. The staff were very friendly, explained the process clearly and answered all our questions. We took the test at 12.10 and the results came through at 10.20pm the same day.

Booked PCR-RT tests here, paid for the next day service, had the results back in just 1 hour!

Amazing !!! Excellent service recieved from Roshni clinic. Great customer serice, always answer the phone, they even called me back once when I hung up because they were busy at the time. The advisors are really helpful. Would highly recomend

Excellent service at Bradford branch. Got result within the timeframe. The WhatsApp chat service is another great facility with instant response. Lab is iso accredited and they make sure you get the correct tests you require

Absolutely brilliant and professional service and quick too! Our accredited Covid Recovery Certificates arrived with QR codes and we are now well on our way to booking an overdue holiday .We would definitely recommend Roshni for all travelling certification and testing needs including Fit to Fly certificates .A special mention to Charlotte who was terrific !

Excellent service big thanks to shak nothing was to much trouble for shak personal point of contact if needed thanks a lot shak

Fast and friendly customer service. She even advertised their gym services and offered me a free session to help me decide if I want to join the gym.

The service I received here was excellent from start to finish. The young lady who looked after us was polite, courteous and very professional putting my young children at ease when it came to taking the tests!!! I received the results well within the 24 hour slot and was able to print them off before setting off to the airport tomorrow. I would not hesitate to recommend again and again!!!

Brilliant service. Very responsive, even via WhatsApp and quick. Thumbs up!

Fantastic service, efficient and friendly. Would recommend Luton Roshni clinic and Nafisa, who is extremely helpful and a credit to your organisation.

Very impressed with the service received from the Bradford branch. My husband and his friend had their PCR test done today, the service was impeccable. They received the results sooner then they had anticipated. A very professional business. Would recommend to all.

I booked a fit to fly PCR test for my daughter. Easy to use online forms including the consent form. The reception was friendly and we were seen to immediately. They even double checked the timescales for the test for Malta to be doubly sure. Sajjad had my 7 year old at ease and she didn’t feel uncomfortable at all. The certificate was emailed within a few hours. Great service and would recommend. Note: on Google street maps this is the old Lister pharmacy building.

Excellent friendly service from the staff (Mare-un) I highly recommend her very good Thank you

My experience today at the clinic was nothing short of perfect. Upon arrival, the staff were very hospitable and welcoming. I must admit I felt slightly nervous in the time leading to my test but the staff member taking my swab (Mare-Un) was amazing and super helpful with the entire process. Not only did she make the process funny and quick, but she ensured that I had no discomfort. I would definitely recommend this clinic and I highly commend the staff member Mare-Un.

We attended at Roshni Clinic with friends for a PCR prior to going on holiday. We received a friendly reception and the tests were carried out efficiently.

Excellent friendly service. Quick same day turn around for results absolute pleasure to deal with. Highly recommend.

Fair price, quick service... used twice now for 3 people, so 6 tests since December 2021 to today (Feb 2022). Slightly more expensive than others, but worth the money, if i need a PCR test again, i will use again.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED FOR PEACE OF MIND! Very professional service, booked nephew's family in for the fit to fly PCR test. All results arrived in good time, minor issue with one document and this was immediately rectified, great service and great communication.

Amazing customer service, had a isssue with my passport number, The team amended my certicate in less than 10 minutes, amazing clinic

Very efficient & timely service. Thank you.

Excellent quick service

Had some issues booking time slot but rang and sorted it. What’s app chat was very responsive and got my results within 24 hours. Location was convenient

Good contact test results as promised. Any problems are addressed rapidly and a solution found. Very professional.

Fantastic service my husband and I went for our PCR test at 15:30 today for fit to fly. We had our result by 19:15. The young man who did our tests was polite and professional. Questions we had when we arrived home where answered promptly and professionally . We would highly recommend and we will not hesitate to use the company again. A big thank you.

We have just attended the Roshni Clinic in Bradford to take fit to travel Antigen tests, the team at Roshni couldn’t have been more Polite, Helpful, Friendly and utterly Professional A wonderful experience Thank you Paul + Robert

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China Travel Restrictions & Travel Advisory (Updated April 25, 2024)

Updates April 25th, 2024: If you book a trip with us, we can arrange a port visa for you to travel to China. China"s port visas are similar to the "visas on arrival" of some other countries. It enables a stay in China for up to 30 days. Contact us to book a trip.

Updates March 7th, 2024 : Travelers from the following countries could enjoy visa-free entry to China for tourism, business, transit, or visiting friends and relatives.

• From December 1st, 2023, to November 30th, 2024: France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, and Spain.
• From March 14th to November 30th, 2024: Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, and Switzerland.
• Singapore, Brunei
• Malaysia (from December 1st, 2023 to November 30th, 2024)

If you want to arrange a private tour, even tentatively, simply contact us .

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• What Ways to Enter China
• Do I Still Need a PCR Test to Enter China
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International Flights to China

What to expect when traveling in china, best times to travel to china, 8 ways to enter china: all open now.

Since China has fully permitted visa applications, there are now several ways to enter the country.

If you still hold a valid Chinese visa (any type including a tourist visa, 10-year visa, a port visa, etc.), you can use it to enter China.

If you don't have a Chinese visa or your visa has expired, you can apply for a new one. All visas can now be applied for, including tourist visas, business visas, work visas, and so on. (International visitors can apply for a tourist visa to the Chinese Mainland in Hong Kong.)

For the documents required for a visa application, you can refer to the information given by a Chinese embassy/consulate . Please submit your application at least two months in advance.

To apply for a tourist visa (L visa), you will be asked to provide an invitation letter issued by a Chinese travel agency or individual or round-trip air tickets and hotel bookings.

When booking a private tour with us, we can provide you with an invitation letter, which is one more thing we do to make your travel more convenient, giving you more flexibility with your air tickets and hotel bookings.

Now it is very easy to apply for a visa . You can easily apply by yourself without an intermediary. The following is how one of our clients successfully applied for a Chinese tourist visa:

• First, fill out the form at the China Online Visa Application website ;
• Second, make an appointment on this website to submit your visa materials on Appointment for Visa Application Submission website ;
• Third, take the required documents to the embassy to submit;
• Finally, you will get a return receipt if your documents are qualified.

Usually, you will get your visa after 7 working days. The application fee is about USD185 for US citizens.

Q: What if my passport expires but my visa doesn't?

A: You can travel to China on the expired passport containing valid Chinese visa in combination with the new passport, provided that the identity information (name, date of birth, gender, nationality) on both passport identical.

If there is a change to any of the above details, you must apply for a new visa.

2. 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy

If you do not apply for a Chinese visa, you may still have the opportunity to visit these areas of China visa free: the Shanghai area (including Suzhou, Hangzhou, etc.), the Beijing area (with Tianjin and Hebei), the Guangzhou area (Shenzhen, Zhuhai, etc.), and more. Take advantage of the 6-day visa-free entitlements.

Find out if you could use the 144-hour visa-free transit policy with our information on China's 144-hour Visa-Free Policy (Eligible Entry/Exit Ports, Applicable Countries, Documents to be Prepared...)

You can also obtain entry and exit control policies through the 24-hour hotline of the National Immigration Administration:

• Beijing: 0086 (+86)-10-12367
• Shanghai: 0086 (+86)-21-12367
• Guangzhou: 0086 (+86)-20-12367

Quick Test: Will My Route Qualify for China 72/144-Hour Visa-Free Transit?

1. I will depart from (only applies to direct or connected flight):

2. I will arrive in China at [city], [airport / railway station / port].

3. My arrival date is...

4. I will leave for [country/region] from China (the bounding destination on the air ticket):

5. My departure date is...

6. My nationality is...

8. I have Chinese visa refusal stamps in my passport.

You qualify to enjoy China's 72-hour visa-free policy.

You qualify to enjoy China's 144-hour visa-free policy.

You don't qualify to enjoy China's 72-hour or 144-hour visa-free policy.

Reason you don't qualify:

• You must be in transit to a third country or region.
• You must leave the city area (prefecture or municipality) after the 72/144 hours (the 72/144-hour limit is calculated starting from 00:00 on the day after arrival, i.e. 24:00 on the arrival date).
• Your passport must be valid for more than 3 months at the time of entry into China.
• Your passport nationality is not eligible for the 72/144-hour visa exemption program.
• You have Chinese visa refusal stamps in your passport.

3. Port Visas (Landing Visas)

If you don't have time to get a visa, or if you find it cumbersome to apply for a tourist visa, you could consider traveling to China through a port visa.

Port visas can be applied for a group at least including 2 people. You need to enter the country within 15 days after you get your entry permit. The port visa allows a stay period of 1 to 2 months.

Applicable ports include Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Guilin, Xi'an, Chengdu, etc.

Note: Tourists from America are not granted a port visa in Shanghai.

Book your China trip with us and we can help you apply for a port visa.

4. Visa Exemption for ASEAN Tour Groups to Guilin

In addition, tour groups from ASEAN member countries, including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Singapore, Myanmar, Brunei, and the Philippines, can visit Guilin for 144 hours without visas as long as they meet the visa-free transit policy requirements.

5. Shanghai Visa-Free Policy for Cruise Groups

Shanghai has a 15-day visa-free policy for foreign tourist groups entering China via a cruise. You must arrive and depart on the same cruise and be received by a Chinese travel agent at the Shanghai Cruise Terminal (or Wusong Passenger Center).

6. Hainan Visa-Free Access

No visa is required for staying on Hainan Island for up to 30 days for ordinary passport holders from 59 countries. Groups and individual tourists must book a tour through an accredited travel agency.

Find out whether you qualify for the policy here .

7. Visa Exemption for the Pearl River Delta Area

International travelers from Hong Kong or Macau are able to visit the Pearl River Delta area (Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, etc.) visa-free as long as they go with a registered tour provider, such as us.

8. APEC Cards

If you hold a valid APEC business travel card, you can simply enter China with the card without applying for a visa.

Travelers who hold a valid APEC business travel card can stay in China for up to 60 days.

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Do I Still Need a PCR Test or Antigen Self-Test to Enter China

No. Starting from August 30, all travelers entering China will no longer need to undergo any COVID-19 testing. You do not need to submit any test results for COVID-19 before departure.

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Hong Kong / Macau Travel Restriction

Hong kong entry requirements.

Travelers from any region bound for Hong Kong will no longer need to take pre-flight COVID-19 tests (no PCR test, no RAT test) from April 1.

There is also no need for any tests when traveling from Hong Kong to the Chinese Mainland. Hong Kong could be a good gateway for your China trip. See suggestions on China Itineraries from Hong Kong (from 1 Week to 3 Weeks).

Direct high-speed trains from Guangzhou and Shenzhen to Hong Kong are available now. In preparation for the Canton Fair, it is expected that direct high-speed ferries will be launched from Guangzhou Pazhou Port to Hong Kong's airport in mid-April.

• 10 Top China Tours from Hong Kong

Macau Entry Requirement

From August 30, travelers from any region bound for Macau will no longer need to take pre-flight COVID-19 tests (no PCR test, no RAT test).

There is also no need for any tests when traveling from Macau to the Chinese Mainland.

Inbound and outbound international flights in the week beginning March 6th rose by more than 350% compared with a year earlier, to nearly 2,500 flights, according to Chinese flight tracking data from APP Flight Master.

At present, there are one or two direct flights a week from New York to Shanghai, Los Angeles to Beijing, Seattle to Shanghai, London to Guangzhou, etc.

There are also many flight options with stopovers that are more frequent and affordable. Testing at transit airports is now not required!

The Coronavirus outbreak in China has subsided. China looks like it did in 2019 again. No special measures (like PCR tests or health codes) are required when traveling around China. All attractions are open as normal.

Wearing a mask is not mandatory when traveling. In hotels, masks are off for the most part. But in some crowded places, such as airports or subway stations, many people still wear masks.

Weather-wise, the best times to visit China are spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October), when most of the popular places have their most tourism-friendly weather, except for the "golden weeks" — the first week of May and of October — when most attractions are flooded with Chinese tourists.

If you are looking for smaller crowds, favorable prices, and still good weather, you should consider March and April or September.

Tourism in cultural and historical destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an is hardly affected by weather conditions. They are suitable to be visited all year round.

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Tour China with Us

We've been building our team for over 20 years. Even over the past three years we have continued, serving over 10,000 expats with China tours and getting a lot of praise (see TripAdvisor ).

We are based in China and can show you the characteristics and charm of China from a unique perspective. Just contact us to create your China trip .

Our consultants will listen to and answer your inquiries carefully and prepare the best plan for you.

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• China Weather in April 2024: Where to Go (Smart Pre-Season Pick)
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• China Weather in August 2024: Weather Tips & Where to Go
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Trending Topics

Follow our news, recent searches, planning a trip to china here’s what you need to know ahead of jan 8 border reopening, advertisement.

Pent-up demand has seen the cost of an economy ticket from Singapore to Beijing this Friday (Dec 30) and returning next Tuesday spike to around S$4,160.

Aerial view of modern skyscrapers in Shanghai. (Photo: iStock)

Vanessa Lim

China will soon ease its COVID-19 entry rules, after nearly three years of strict pandemic border restrictions.

On Monday (Dec 26), the country’s National Health Commission (NHC) announced that from Jan 8, 2023, COVID-19 will be downgraded from Class A - its top tier of infectious diseases - to Class B, a class that also includes HIV, viral hepatitis and H7N9 bird flu. This means that quarantine will no longer be enforced.

If you’re planning a trip to China, here’s what you need to know.

NEW ENTRY RULES

Under the new rules, which will take effect from Jan 8, travellers will no longer be subjected to quarantine requirements. However, they will need to take a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test 48 hours pre-flight in order to enter the country.

Currently, all passengers arriving in China have to undergo mandatory centralised quarantine, a requirement that has been in place since March 2020.

However, the length of time has been progressively reduced, from three weeks originally to just five days at present.

It is the latest in a series of restrictions to be lifted as Beijing loosens its zero-COVID regime. Earlier this month, the Chinese government abruptly dropped mandatory testing and lockdowns.

It comes after nationwide protests last month, with the strict zero-COVID policy - now entering its fourth year - being blamed for upending ordinary life, travel and employment and dealing a harsh blow to the economy.

SHORTER LOCKDOWNS, HOME QUARANTINE

While China has since moved away from imposing sweeping lockdowns in whole neighbourhoods or cities, current guidelines stipulate that local authorities may still lock down buildings in the event that a positive case is detected.

However, snap lockdowns must be applied to more precisely identified areas, including specific buildings, units, and floors.

They must also be lifted if no new cases are found for five consecutive days.

In addition, the new guidelines also ban the blocking of fire exits and doors by officials, after  10 people died in a blaze in a sealed building in northwest China's Urumqi , sparking nationwide protests.

People infected with COVID-19 but with mild or no symptoms can now isolate at home rather than in state-managed facilities.

FEWER PCR TESTS, MASS TESTING

Many cities, including Beijing and Shanghai, have removed the negative test requirements to enter public spaces such as bars, restaurants, museums and other establishments. However, PCR tests are still required in high-risk areas such as healthcare, education and certain other institutions.

Earlier this month, Beijing and Shenzhen also declared that negative COVID-19 test results will no longer be required to ride public transport .

Mass testing is also no longer conducted in areas that are not considered “high risk”, which refers to places that have positive cases.

Since Dec 7, those travelling between regions in China are no longer required to undergo PCR tests and health code checks.

FLIGHT OPTIONS

Restrictions on international flights, such as the "Five-One" policy - a rule under which an airline can keep only one flight per week to travel to and out of China - will also be lifted but in-flight mask-wearing will still be required.

From Dec 30, Singapore Airlines (SIA) will reinstate its passenger service to Beijing, operating fortnightly every other Friday.

This comes nearly three years after flight services between Singapore and Beijing were suspended on Mar 28, 2020.

Checks by CNA on Tuesday showed that the cost of an economy ticket from Singapore to Beijing this Friday with the return flight next Tuesday was around S$4,160.

According to SIA’s flight calendar, prices for economy flights between Singapore and Beijing show a slight drop after Jan 8.

A ticket for a round trip that leaves for Beijing on Jan 13 and returns to Singapore on Jan 17 costs around S$3,335.

Throughout the pandemic, SIA has been operating cargo-only flights to and from Beijing. It was allowed to upgrade one-way Beijing to Singapore services to carry passengers twice a week in late September.

Since late September, Scoot has gradually resumed flight services to mainland China. It now operates weekly flights to seven cities including Hangzhou, Tianjin and Guangzhou.

With some countries, such as Japan, imposing COVID-19 test requirements on arrival for travellers from China, Singapore's Health Ministry told CNA on Wednesday that there is no change to Singapore's COVID-19 rules for such travellers.

"At this juncture, the prevailing border measures and vaccination requirements for travellers and work pass holders arriving from China remain unchanged," said the ministry.

"China currently imposes restrictions on outbound travel, as one needs valid reasons, such as education and business, to leave the country."

The Health Ministry said it is closely monitoring the international COVID-19 situation and will adjust border health measures if needed. Travellers who are unvaccinated and visiting Singapore currently have to undergo pre-departure tests.

Editor's note: An earlier version of this article said Scoot operates weekly flights to 18 cities in China. Scoot has clarified that it operates weekly flights to seven cities in China.

BOOKMARK THIS: Our comprehensive coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic and its developments

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UK Scrap PCR Tests for China Arrivals – Here's the Updated List

The United Kingdom has become the latest country to scrap rules requiring arrivals from the Chinese mainland to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test. 

The requirement of a pre-departure test for arrivals in England will end on April 5, reports Reuters.

Following China’s lifting of the ‘dynamic zero-COVID’ policy, a number of countries and regions imposed new COVID-19 measures for those arriving from the Chinese mainland as cases began to rise. 

The UK is the latest on a growing list of countries and regions which have now scrapped said measures, making outbound travel from China easier. 

Below are a few countries which have scrapped or reduced COVID-19 testing requirements (Morocco being the exception). 

United Kingdom

The requirement of a pre-departure test for arrivals in England will end on April 5.

United States

Testing requirements were scrapped on Friday, March 10, 2023. However, non-US citizens and non-US immigrants traveling to the United States MUST show proof of full vaccination against COVID-19, according to the United States Center for Disease Control (CDC). 

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, testing requirements for arrivals from the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong and Macao were scrapped on March 17, 2023. 

European Union  

EU member states and other Schengen Area Countries agreed in February, 2023 to phase out testing requirements for travelers from China, including France, Spain, Italy, Sweden, the Netherlands, Belgium, etc. 

Switzerland

COVID-19 tests are no longer required for those entering Switzerland from China. 

Australia 

According to Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, arrivals in the country from China are no longer required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test result.

COVID-19 tests on arrival for those coming from China were  scrapped  on March 1, 2023. However, travelers must still show proof of a negative PCR test result issued within 72 hours before departure.  

South Korea

COVID-19 testing requirements for arrivals from China have been  scrapped . 

Morocco 

Anyone who has travel history to China from within seven days is banned from entering Morocco, regardless of nationality, according to information on the country’s national aviation agency website. 

Elsewhere in Greater China (Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan) 

The Hong Kong and Macao Special Administrative Regions have scrapped testing requirements for those arriving from the Chinese mainland. 

According to the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control, those arriving in the region from the Chinese mainland no longer need to undergo pre-departure or post-arrival testing for COVID-19.

However, arrivals still need to undergo a 7-day period of “self-initiated prevention"; rapid antigen tests are to be taken within that time, but only if arrivals show COVID-19 symptoms. 

Entering the Chinese Mainland 

A number of Chinese embassies announced that as of March 1, 2023, a 48-hour negative PCR test would no longer be required for those traveling to the Chinese mainland. 

The PCR test can be replaced with a rapid antigen test (RAT), which not only allows for self-testing, but won't even be checked by the airline at the point of departure.

Please do note, however, that anyone traveling to the mainland still needs to fill out China's Customs Declaration, which requires a negative RAT 48 hours before arriving.

READ MORE: 6 Countries Scrap PCR Test for China Returnees

[Cover image via Pixabay ]

Covid-19 Air Travel

Insider's Ultimate China Travel Guide 2024 (Guangzhou)

Everything you need to know is right HERE!

Seamless Travel: Pre-Check-in Services from Hong Kong to Canton Fair

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Travel Gossip: Can 5 Minutes Make a Big Difference?

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New Guangzhou-Shanwei High-Speed Railway to Slash Travel Times

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Shenzhen Airlines officially inaugurats its direct flight service from Shenzhen to Barcelona, Spain.

Foreign Travel to China Nowhere Near Full Recovery

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WATCH: China COVID Expert Cheekily Kissed at Graduation Ceremony

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The measures are in effect, as of press time.

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China to Replace PCR Test with Self-testing Antigen for Inbound Travelers

Self-testing Antigen Test Results Are Required since Apr. 29

Since January 8, China has downgraded the management of COVID-19 and a lot of new measures have been announced, including canceling the quarantine requirements for inbound travelers, and all types of visas resumed to be issued. However, since then, the negative nucleic acid test results within 48 hours and travelers need to present the negative results to the staff of airlines before boarding their international flight.   

How to Declare Your Antigen Test to China Customs?

Generally, there are two ways to declare your negative test result. 

More International Flights Opened and Reopen One After Another

As China adjusts and optimizes its entry requirements, more and more international flights to China are resuming. For example, British Airways have resumed daily flights between London's Heathrow Airport and Shanghai's Pudong Airport since April 24 and its London-Beijing Airline will also be reopened since June 3; Garuda Airlines will soon resume flights between Jakarta and Shanghai Pudong; Xiamen Airlines will resume flights from New York, Vancouver, Los Angeles and other international cities to Xiamen. In addition, more flights will be added to existing flight routes. The flights operated by Air China from Frankfurt, London, and Milan to Shanghai; flights of Amsterdam-Shanghai operated by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines; and Auckland to Shanghai flight will all be adjusted to fly every day. 

• China to Resume Issuing All Types of Visas since March 15, 2023 Published: Mar. 14, 2023
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Blog UK Health Security Agency

https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2023/01/10/covid-19-testing-for-people-arriving-from-china/

COVID-19 testing for people arriving from China

A sample of passengers travelling from China into London’s Heathrow Airport will be invited to take a PCR test for COVID-19 on arrival. These tests will help us to better understand any variants that may be present in any positive cases.

Why are we only testing arrivals from China?

China is currently experiencing its largest and most serious COVID-19 wave since the start of the pandemic. This coincides with China easing some of the border measures it had put in place during the pandemic, which had included limits on the numbers of passengers permitted on international flights.

There are far fewer publicly available COVID-19 genomes shared from China compared to the UK. The opportunity to carry out genomic testing on samples provided by some of the incoming travellers is therefore important, as it will help us to better understand what COVID-19 variants are circulating in individuals arriving to the UK from China.

Why are we testing a sample of people?

The tests being offered on arrival are for surveillance purposes only and are intended to help us build a more complete picture of the COVID-19 situation worldwide. We only need to test a sample of travellers (we are inviting 20% of arrivals to take part) to gain a representative picture that is useful for this purpose.

While the arrival tests will not affect individual passengers’ onward journeys, anyone travelling to England from mainland China from 5 th January 2023 will also be required to take a COVID-19 test before they depart and must show evidence of a negative result before being permitted to board a flight.

Should we be worried about new variants?

UKHSA already has multiple systems in place to detect and monitor the spread and prevalence of COVID-19 variants at home, and our data is shared quickly to help support health security efforts worldwide.

There is nothing in the publicly available data to suggest that there are any new variants currently circulating in China, but the measures we are putting in place at Heathrow will further enhance our surveillance capabilities and help us to spot variants of concern quickly if any do arise.

How to protect yourself and others

Vaccination is still the best way to protect yourself against becoming severely unwell with COVID-19, so it’s as important as ever to take up any doses when you’re eligible. If you’ve been offered a booster this winter and have not yet come forward, there is still time to book an appointment .

As we advised last April as part of Living with COVID, you should try to stay home when you have symptoms of respiratory infections including flu and COVID-19 and if you do have to go out, wear a face covering. There has been no change in this advice which remains in place as a sensible precautionary measure when you are unwell.

You can also help to protect yourself and others by covering your nose and mouth when you cough and sneeze, washing your hands frequently and cleaning surfaces such as door handles and light switches.

You should particularly avoid meeting people at higher risk of becoming seriously unwell from COVID-19, especially those with a weakened immune system. Full guidance on living safely with respiratory infections can be found here .

Tags: genomics , global health , health surveillance

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I .Pre-boarding Nucleic Acid Test

All China-bound travelers will need to take nucleic acid test for COVID-19 within 48 hours before boarding, and can only travel to China when your test result is negative or after it turns from positive to negative. Please always bring the proof of your negative COVID-19 test result with you for inspection.

ll.Health Declaration to China Customs

You are required to declare your negative test result to China Customs by filling the Health Declaration Form on the WeChat miniprogram of China Customs (scan the QR code below), or at https://htdecl.chinaport.gov.cn, or via the China Customs APP.

Ill.Boarding Check

At boarding time , airlines will check if you have a negative result within 48 hours, and those who fail to present such a proof will not be allowed to board the plane.

IV. Self-protection on the Aircraft

You are suggested to wear a mask throughout the flight and take good personal protection to reduce the risk of infection

V. Inspection upon Entry

You can go through customs with your health declaration result, and China Customs may check your proof of negative COVID-19 test result.If you pass the health declaration and entry inspection, no further requirements will be imposed. lf there are anomalies in your health declaration or you are showing symptoms such as fever, you are required to take an antigen test by China Customs.Those whose results are positive will need to self-quarantine or seek medical treatment as notified by the authority. Those whose results are negative will go through routine quarantine inspection by China Customs in accordance with the Frontier Health and Quarantine Law and other laws and regulations

VI. After-entry Epidemic Prevention and Control

After entry into China, you will have to strictly abide by the epidemic prevention and contro requirements of the place where you stay .

Requirements for Proof of COVID-19 Test

I.The proof must have the name of the traveler, which should be exactly the same as it appears on the travel document used for the flight. It is recommended that the date of birth and travel document number also be shown on the proof

II. The proof must also have:

Time of the test or time of issue(at least one of them should be within 48 hours before boarding); testing method (which should be nucleic acid testing; antigen testing will not be accepted); test result(which should be negative; 'uncertain’ will not be accepted); and name and contact details of the testing institution.

III.The proof must be in the official language of the place of departure of your flight to China, or in English. It will be checked by the airline of your flight to China.

IV.It should be a hard copy. lf the testing institution issued a digital copy, please print it out and take it with you.

Travellers arriving in England from China will need to show negative COVID test

England follows a growing list of countries tightening the rules on arrivals from China as the country deals with a big jump in cases after scrapping many of its tough coronavirus laws.

Saturday 31 December 2022 04:40, UK

People arriving in England from mainland China will have to provide a negative COVID test before flying, the government has said.

A growing list of countries, including the US, have announced similar rules in recent days.

The Department of Health and Social Care said the "precautionary and temporary" measure would take effect from 5 January.

The negative test must have been done no more than two days before departure.

Some arrivals will also be tested for potential new COVID variants, although it's believed those circulating in China are the same as in the UK and the rest of Europe.

The government said it was working with the administrations in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland to get the same rules in place there.

However, there are no direct flights to those nations from China.

More on Covid-19

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There has been a surge in infections in China after it rowed back some of its notoriously tough coronavirus rules, such as regular PCR testing.

With its border controls also being eased next week and more people set to travel abroad, there are worries it could lead to an increase in global cases.

Officials estimated 250 million people are likely to have contracted the virus in the first 20 days of December, according to leaked notes.

Shanghai last week had 5.43 million positive cases but the true number may be much higher as asymptomatic cases are no longer recorded.

China has been hit with the new rules because of "a lack of comprehensive health information", the Department of Health said.

It added: "The situation remains under review and the UK is working with China on next steps. If there are improvements in information sharing and greater transparency, then temporary measures will be reviewed."

Health Secretary Steve Barclay said the country was taking a "balanced and precautionary approach".

Professor Susan Hopkins, chief medical advisor at the UK Health Security Agency, said the rise in cases in China was believed to be "due to low natural immunity and lower vaccine uptake including boosters rather than the emergence of new COVID-19 variants".

Spain, Italy, Japan, South Korea, the US and India are among those to have recently introduced new rules on arrivals from the country.

On Friday, France's transport minister said it would also bring in changes from 1 January.

Negative tests will be needed before flying from China, masks must be worn on the plane and tests will be carried out on arrival in France.

COVID regulations for different countries

US : Starting on 5 January, the US will bring in mandatory COVID-19 tests on travellers from China. All plane passengers aged two and above will have to have a negative result no more than two days before leaving from the mainland, Hong Kong or Macau. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Americans should also reconsider travel to those places.

JAPAN : The country will require a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival for travellers from mainland China. Those who test positive will be required to quarantine for seven days. New border measures for China will come into effect at midnight on 30 December. The government will also limit requests from airlines to increase flights to China.

INDIA : From 1 January, people travelling to India from China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Singapore and Thailand must have a negative COVID before their departure and upload it on an Indian government website.

ITALY : The nation has ordered COVID-19 antigen swabs and virus sequencing for all travellers coming from China. Milan's main airport, Malpensa, has started testing passengers arriving from Beijing and Shanghai.

TAIWAN : Beginning on 1 January, all passengers on direct flights from China, as well as by boat at two offshore islands, will have to take PCR tests upon arrival.

SOUTH KOREA : The nation will require travellers from China to provide a negative COVID test result before departure.

SPAIN : People travelling from China to Spain will be required to test negative for COVID or prove they have been fully vaccinated against the disease.

MALAYSIA : The country will screen body temperatures of all inbound travellers, including those from China, and those detected with fever or other symptoms will be tested for COVID. It will also sample wastewater from aircraft arriving from China for coronavirus and will conduct tests to detect the entry of any new variants.

FRANCE : Negative tests will be needed before flying from China from 1 January, masks must be worn on the plane and tests will also be carried out on arrival in France.

COUNTRIES MONITORING THE SITUATION

AUSTRALIA : Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Australia was continuing to monitor the situation in respect of China "as we continue to monitor the impact of COVID here in Australia as well as around the world".

PHILIPPINES : The country is being "very cautious" and could impose measures such as testing requirements on visitors from China, but not an outright ban, transportation secretary Jaime Bautista said.

The European Union's health agency has said the introduction of mandatory COVID screenings of travellers from China is "unjustified".

Reacting to the UK government announcement, Tory MP Craig Mackinlay said he was "opposed to new, creeping moves towards restrictions and lockdowns" but "preventing entry to positive cases is a sensible move".

Read more: Is UK risking new variants without action on Chinese travellers? Zero-COVID U-turn means infection rate will be shrouded in secrecy Half of passengers on China flight to Italy have COVID

China has rejected criticism of its COVID data and said it expects future mutations to be potentially more transmissible but less severe.

The country's own requirement for international travellers to quarantine is ending on 8 January . It's thought to no longer be effective given the high number of infections now circulating within the country.

However, incoming travellers will still need to show a negative test before departure.

China's loosening of the rules followed a rare wave of protests over the country's COVID laws that appeared to surprise its leaders.

There are fears the increase in cases there could lead to many deaths because of the relatively low percentage of elderly and vulnerable people who are fully vaccinated.

Related Topics

Travellers from China to require negative Covid-19 test to enter UK from January

• Coronavirus
• Friday 30 December 2022 at 11:39pm

The UK government is set to follow other countries by requiring travellers from China to be tested for Covid-19 from early next year, amid concerns that the lifting of restrictions there has seen a wave of infections.

The Department of Health said that anyone travelling from China on direct flights to England from January 5 will need to show a negative Covid pre-departure test taken no more than two days before departure.

Although there are no direct flights from China to Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, the department said it is working with devolved nations so that the changes are imposed UK-wide as soon as possible.

The UK Health Security Agency will also launch surveillance from January 8, which will see a sample of passengers arriving in England from China tested for the virus as they arrive.

Why is the UK government imposing Covid tests on travellers from China? ITV News Political Correspondent Harry Horton explains

There are concerns that the daily cases and deaths in China have been greatly underreported as officials have stopped requiring cases to be reported, and changed classifications for coronavirus deaths.

Health Secretary Steve Barclay said that the UK was taking a “balanced and precautionary approach”, describing the measures as “temporary” while officials assess the latest Covid-19 data. “This allows our world-leading scientists at the UK Health Security Agency to gain rapid insight into potential new variants circulating in China,” he said. “The best defence against the virus, however, remains the vaccine. NHS staff have done an incredible job delivering over 150 million jabs across the UK. “It isn’t too late to come forward, for your first, second, third, or autumn booster – it’s quick and easy, and you can book online, on the NHS app, or just turn up at one of the many walk-in centres across the UK.”

The move comes after Spain, the US, Italy, India, Taiwan, South Korea, Malaysia and Japan announced new screening measures following the  end of Beijing’s zero-Covid policy .

Ministers had previously said the situation in the UK was being kept under review as Beijing announced plans to start reissuing passports and visas for overseas trips.

Officially the Chinese government is reporting around 5,000 Covid cases a day but analysts say it could actually be as high as one million cases a day.

Some Tory MPs had called for a more robust response from the government, even as the chairman of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation, Professor Andrew Pollard, said the imposition of travel curbs was unlikely to stop variants reaching the UK.

From January 5, all passengers from China, Hong Kong or Macao entering the US will be required to take a Covid-19 test no more than two days before travel and to provide a negative test before boarding their flight . The testing applies to anyone two years and older, including US citizens. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention put its decision down to a recent surge in infections in China and what it described as a lack of adequate and transparent information from Beijing, including genomic sequencing on the viral strains circulating in the country.

On Friday, Chinese state media called the imposition of Covid tests by some countries on travellers arriving from China "discriminatory".

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