Hong Kong, a beloved destination for many travelers in Asia, is further lifting restrictions due to COVID-19. Recent changes are making the city an attractive return destination for travelers, including American tourists.
Previously, incoming travelers had to undergo multiple COVID-19 tests in order to visit. However, a Hong Kong government press release effective December 29, 2022 stated that travelers arriving by air are only required to undergo a negative test within a certain period of time before their scheduled departure to Hong Kong. . Specifically, Hong Kong accepts rapid antigen testing (RAT) within 24 hours of departure or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing within 48 hours of departure.
According to the press release, travelers are required to “keep photographs showing test results or test reports for 90 days for presentation to review upon request from government officials.” Declaration of test results via the HSKAR Department of Health electronic health declaration form is now optional. However, some airlines may ask for a QR code at check-in, so it’s a good idea to send the results to get his QR code.
Hong Kong has abolished vaccine passes and suspended provisional vaccine pass insurance for visitors. However, non-Hong Kong residents aged 12 and over are required to submit proof of vaccination before boarding flights to Hong Kong.
Vaccination requirements and temperature screening will not apply to transit passengers who do not clear immigration, according to a press release issued by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government in September.
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Finally, Hong Kong maintains its previous masking requirements. In particular, masks are still required in all public places, including public transportation, according to the South China Morning Post.
When booking travel to Hong Kong, consider redeeming Alaska Mileage Plan miles for Cathay Pacific flights. After all, you can fly business class to Asia for just 50,000 Alaska Miles.
Or, for 60,000 Alaska Miles, get a free stopover in Hong Kong en route to Australia. Best of all, you can now use your Alaska Miles to book Cathay Pacific rewards online.
For the latest information on visiting Hong Kong, please refer to the Hong Kong Government website and the Hong Kong Consulate General.
Additional reporting by Emily Thompson and Katie Genter.