Effective January 5, 2023, all travelers from China, including Hong Kong and Macau, must present a negative COVID test in order to enter the U.S. The policy aims to limit the potential spread of COVID in the U.S. as China seemingly faces a surge. Part of the issue is the lack of transparency from China in terms of the extent of the surge in that country.

The policy affects all air travelers who visit China regardless of citizenship or vaccination status. Further, the requirement includes all individuals traveling to the U.S. coming directly or indirectly from China. Individuals traveling through the U.S. to a different destination but who have come through China at any point in their travels are also required to provide a negative COVID test. The U.S. is the latest country to add COVID protections. Both Japan and Italy have enacted similar requirements and restrictions. India also now requires a negative COVID test and is completing random screening for passengers arriving in India from Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Thailand, and China.

The requirements remain the subject of speculation as to the benefit. However, the policy will be fully enforced as of January 5, 2023. It’s important to note this is not a travel ban. This is a requirement for entry to the U.S.

China has had a ‘zero tolerance’ policy on COVID, requiring strict lockdowns. After extensive protests, China changed the policy and is no longer enforcing lockdowns. As a result, the spread of COVID seems to be moving rapidly and may allow the virus to quickly evolve, creating additional strands of the illness.

If you have questions about traveling through China, the COVID requirement, or any other immigration-related issues, please contact us anytime. We continue to actively monitor ongoing updates to ensure our clients get the proper guidance.