**Beijing, China** – In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Chinese government has announced new travel restrictions for inbound passengers, effective March 28, 2023. These measures are aimed at minimizing the risk of virus transmission and protecting public health..
**Key Provisions of the New Restrictions:**.
* **Pre-Departure Testing:** All inbound travelers, regardless of vaccination status, must present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 48 hours of departure. The test must be either a PCR or antigen test..
* **Health Declaration:** Inbound passengers must complete a health declaration form within 24 hours of boarding their flight to China. The form will include information about their travel history and health status..
* **Quarantine for Unvaccinated Travelers:** Unvaccinated travelers will be required to undergo quarantine for five days upon arrival in China, followed by three days of home monitoring. Vaccinated travelers will not be subject to quarantine..
* **Enhanced Surveillance:** All inbound passengers will be subject to enhanced surveillance, including temperature checks and symptom monitoring..
* **Suspension of Visa-Free Transit:** Visa-free transit services in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Xi’an will be suspended for inbound passengers..
**Rationale for the Restrictions:**.
The Chinese government has cited concerns over the recent surge in COVID-19 cases globally as the primary reason for implementing the new restrictions. The measures are intended to reduce the risk of imported infections and prevent the spread of new variants within China..
**Impact on International Travel:**.
The new travel restrictions are expected to have a significant impact on international travel to China. Airlines and tourism operators are anticipating a decrease in passenger traffic and a potential reduction in revenue..
**Public Health Concerns:**.
The implementation of these restrictions underscores the Chinese government’s commitment to prioritizing public health and minimizing the impact of COVID-19 on the country. The measures are designed to protect the health and well-being of both Chinese citizens and international travelers..
**Additional Information:**.
Passengers planning to travel to China are advised to contact their respective airlines or the Chinese embassy or consulate in their home country for the latest information and guidance on travel requirements. The situation is fluid, and the Chinese government may further adjust the restrictions based on evolving circumstances..
**Sources:**.
* [China Implements New Travel Restrictions for Inbound Passengers Amid COVID-19 Concerns](https://www.lifesciencematters.com/news/2023/03/china-implements-new-travel-restrictions-for-inbound-passengers-amid-covid-19-concerns).
* [China to resume quarantine-free travel March 28](https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202303/28/WS64256e0ea310fd2b29e5101c.html).
* [China to Lift Quarantine Requirement for Inbound Travelers From March 28](https://global.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202303/28/WS64256e1ba310fd2b29e5101e.html).
