Throughout pretty much the entirety of the pandemic, China had some of the strictest travel restrictions in the world. Even as many countries returned to normality in 2022, China has remained almost completely shut to outside travellers.
But that’s all now changed. Nearly three years later, China has finally scrapped its policy of mandatory quarantine for overseas arrivals, as well as gotten rid of its daily cap on incoming flights.
The new measures are active as of January 8 and they initially apply to those travelling to the country with work or study visas, as well as relatives wishing to visit family.
And the new rules don’t just make it easier for overseas visitors to get into China – they also make it easier for Chinese visitors to travel abroad. January 8 marks the date when Chinese citizens can apply for passports for international travel.
It’s worth noting that even though quarantine has been scrapped, travellers still need to take a PCR test to enter China. Plus, it hasn’t yet been announced when travellers will be allowed to arrive in the country using tourist visas.
In any case, if you’ve been waiting all these years for a jaunt around China, you might not have to wait too much longer! After nearly three years, one of the world’s hugest and most fascinating countries might soon be yours for the taking. Keep an eye on this page – we’ll keep it updated as more info is announced.
Did you see our round-up of all the January travel sales, bargains and discounts to look out for?
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