On December 28, 2022, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that new COVID-19 testing requirements will be implemented for inbound travelers from China, Hong Kong, and Macau to the United States. This new testing requirement is meant to slow the spread of COVID-19 due to a surge in cases throughout China.

Starting January 5, 2023, all air travelers over two years old must obtain a COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen self-test) within two days before their departure from China, Hong Kong, or Macau.

If a traveler tested positive for COVID-19 more than 10 days before the flight, documentation of recovery may be submitted in lieu of the negative test result. In addition to flights departing directly from China, the following travelers will also be required to provide a negative test or proof of recovery:

• Individuals traveling from China via a third country or travelers from China meeting a connecting flight in the United States to a further destination.
• Individuals who have been in China in the last 10 days and no more than two days prior to their departure for the United States and who will transit through Incheon International Airport, Toronto Pearson International Airport, or Vancouver International Airport enroute to the United States.

The testing requirement will apply to all travelers regardless of nationality and vaccination status. This means that it will be applicable to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. Airlines will verify the negative test result or proof of recovery before boarding.

Foster will continue to track changes in international travel restrictions and requirements, and will make additional updates available via our firm’s website at www.fosterglobal.com.