According to the Hong Kong Tourism Board, starting from September 26, foreign travelers arriving at Hong Kong International Airport are no longer required to undergo a three-day quarantine at the hotel. This practice has been in place for more than two years.
Instead, the city will implement a 0+3 rule requiring travelers to self-monitor for symptoms for three days after arrival and can do so at home. During this time, they are allowed to go outside, but they are not allowed to visit certain places, such as bars and restaurants.
Hong Kong has also removed the requirement to take a PCR test before boarding a flight, instead a rapid test will be required for antigen 24 hours before departure. In addition, tourists will be required to undergo a PCR test on the 2nd, 4th and 6th day after arrival, as well as undergo rapid antigen testing every day for seven days.
The initial softening of pavils is expected to attract mainly business travelers and returning Hong Kong residents.
The new measures follow neighboring Japan's decision to start welcoming solo tourists again from 11 October. Japan will also remove its daily limit on the number of arrivals. Currently, travelers can only enter Japan if they have purchased a tour from an accredited travel agency.