China Travel Restrictions 2023 - Updated May. 8, 2023

Written by Apple Updated May. 19, 2023

China has opened its borders to tourists from March 15, 2023. Foreigners can enter China normally with a valid China visa (any type).

All types of visa applications are resumed. Visa-free transit policies are also reinstated.

From April 29th, all international travelers can use an antigen self-test instead of a PCR test to enter China.

Who Can Enter China Now?

China has resumed applications for all types of visas since March 15, 2023. Visa-free transit policies are also reinstated.

You can enter China as long as you are:

holding a valid China visa (any type, even if applied before March 28, 2020).
holding valid Chinese residence permits for work, study, reunion, and personal matters.
holding valid APEC business cards.
qualify for the China visa-free transit policy.

Do I Still Need a PCR Test to Enter China in 2023

The PCR test is not necessary to enter China since April 29, 2023. From now on, you can enter China with an antigen self-test instead of a PCR test. Airlines will no longer verify pre-boarding testing certificates.

You still need to declare your health condition to China Customs by filling out the Health Declaration Form on the WeChat mini-program of China Customs (scan the QR code below) or at the website.

Hong Kong Travel Restrictions 2023

Hong Kong no longer requires mandatory hotel quarantine or home quarantine for overseas arrivals.

What are the Requirements to Enter Hong Kong?

For passengers from China Mainland and Macau to Hong Kong, all pre-departure testing requirements have been lifted with effect from 6 February 2023.

You can enter Hong Kong from China Mainland or Macau as long as you have a valid travel permit (and visa if applicable). You don't need to do any tests.

If you are entering Hong Kong from Taiwan or places outside China, you are required to do a rapid Antigen Test conducted within 24 hours or a PCR test conducted within 48 hours prior to the departure. Quarantine is not required anymore.

Can Foreign Travelers in Hong Kong Enter the China Mainland?

Yes. You can enter China Mainland from Hong Kong as long as you have a valid China visa. You don't need to do any tests to enter China Mainland if you haven't been to Taiwan or overseas within 7 days.

Now you can enter China mainland from Hong Kong by land, by train, by ferry, or by plane.

To get more information about transport from Hong Kong to China Mainland, please scan the QR icon.

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Macau Travel Restrictions

You do not need to do any tests if you are entering Macau from China Mainland or Hong Kong.

If you are entering Macau from Taiwan or places outside China, you are required to do a rapid Antigen Test conducted within 24 hours or a PCR test conducted within 48 hours prior to the departure. Quarantine is not required anymore.

Tibet Travel Restrictions

According to the regulations of the Tibet Autonomous Region, foreigners are not allowed to travel around Tibet alone. That means you have to book a tour with a China local travel agency.

To enter Tibet, all foreigners (non-Chinese passport holders) need a Tibet Entry Permit which is issued by Tibet Tourism Administration.

To visit Mount Everest Base Camp or Mount Kailash, an Aliens' Travel Permit and a Military Area Entry Permit are required.

Now, Tibet is open to foreign tourists. If you plan to visit Tibet, you can apply for the Tibet Permit now. Since foreigners are unable to apply for an Entry Permit independently, you are suggested to book your tour with a local travel agency.

If you book the Tibet tour with us, we will make all necessary arrangements to obtain the Tibet Permit for you. Feel free to contact us and learn more details about Tibet travel requirements.

Recommended China Classic Tours

We can also customize your own trip based on your group size, budget, interests, preferences, and other requirements. Please feel free to contact us, our professional travel advisors will give you recommendations.