• Inspiration
  • Destinations
  • Places To Stay
  • Style & Culture
  • Food & Drink
  • Wellness & Spas
  • News & Advice
  • Partnerships
  • On The Move
  • Travel Tips
  • Competitions

Can I travel to China? Travel rules from the UK explained 

By Connor Sturges

Shanghai China

In December 2019, a cluster of Chinese citizens in Wuhan reported mysterious flu-like symptoms in what became the start of a pandemic that would change the world as we knew it. Countries closed their borders and leading scientists embarked on a mission to create effective vaccines, leading many travellers to rediscover the wonders on their doorsteps and the concept of the great British staycation .

Fast forward to January 2023, and China is welcoming tourists once again. Hundreds of millions of Chinese citizens will be hoping to travel domestically to join family ahead of Chinese New Year and see in the Year of the Rabbit, while curious international travellers are adding the country to their bucket lists once again for the year ahead.

These are the entry requirements, and the UK government's advice, as of Monday 9 January 2023.

Can I travel to China from the UK, and back again?

Yes, with some restrictions. After almost three years of Covid stalling China’s tourism industry, Thursday 5 January 2023 marked the opening of China’s borders to the world once again. However, as of Monday 9 January 2023, China remains in the midst of a Covid surge, meaning strict rules are in place for travellers wishing to visit the country.

What are the entry requirements for China?

Since international flights to China resumed on Thursday 5 January 2023, all travellers are required to take a pre-departure PCR Covid test in the 48 hours prior to travel. 

Once confirmed, a negative PCR test result can be submitted by filling in a health declaration form on the  China customs website . Negative results can also be submitted on the China customs app or a registered WeChat account. 

Travellers who display symptoms of fever on arrival in China may be asked to take a further antigen test. Self-quarantine will be imposed in the event of a positive test result and mild symptoms, while travellers can be sent to medical institutions for treatment if symptoms are more severe.

The UK government website recommends that all travellers pack a supply of medication to treat flu-like symptoms. It is also recommended that accommodation is stocked with additional food, water and medical supplies in case you are mandated to isolate.

Can I travel to China Travel rules from the UK explained

What are the rules on returning to the UK from China?

All travellers aged 12 and over must obtain a negative pre-departure Covid test result no more than two days prior to travelling back from mainland China to the UK. Results are checked by airlines and Border Force officials in the UK. These rules currently apply to travellers on direct and indirect flights, and those arriving in England as a final destination plus anyone transiting through England.

Test results can be provided in the form of a printed document, an email, or text message, and must contain the following information:

  • A full name that matches the name on travel documents
  • Date of birth or age
  • Result of the test
  • Date the test sample was collected or received by the test provider
  • Name of the test provider and their contact details
  • Confirmation of the type of test taken, which can be a lateral flow or PCR

NHS-provided tests cannot be used as pre-departure tests. In addition to the required pre-departure tests when returning from mainland China, travellers arriving at London Heathrow Airport may be asked to undertake a voluntary test on arrival, as part of the UK government’s monitoring of potential new variants.

Are there any other entry requirements for travel to China?

According to the latest UK government website, travellers wishing to visit China on a British Citizen passport can do so by:

  • Obtaining an “Invitation Letter” or “Verification Confirmation of Invitation” issued by a provincial foreign affairs office or department of commerce (M or F visa)
  • Obtaining a “Notification Letter of Foreigners Work Permit” (Z visa)
  • Visiting a family member with a Z, M, or F visa
  • Intending to visit a family member who is a Chinese citizen or who holds a Chinese permanent residence permit
  • Qualifying for a high-level talent (R) visa
  • Qualifying for a transport crew (C) visa

Visa applications must be made, in person, at a Visa Application Centre. Note that biometric data (scanned fingerprints) has to be provided as part of the application process. Chinese Visa Application Centres in London , Manchester and Edinburgh are operating, but with limited opening hours. The Belfast centre remains closed.

More details, including the process for submitting forms for those still eligible, can be found on the Chinese Embassy website.

For more information and updated rules, visit the   UK government website before travelling. We also recommend ensuring you have valid   travel insurance with Covid cover before taking any trips.

china uk travel restrictions

  • Sentiment Survey 2023-24
  • Position Paper 2023
  • Policy Insights
  • China Schools Awards
  • British Ball
  • Become a Member
  • Membership Directory
  • Executive Committee

Latest UK-China travel updates – flights, entry requirements and visa processes

china uk travel restrictions

Following the relaxing of pandemic-related travel restrictions, including quarantine requirements for inbound travellers, British and Chinese airlines are resuming their regular services to China for the first time in over two years.

The British Chamber looks forward to increased business engagement in 2023 as a result of these changes – read on to find out more about the latest flights available, entry policies and visa requirements.

Flights between the UK and China increasing

British Airways (BA) and Virgin Atlantic have both announced that they will reinstate their daily flights to China – BA’s flight Shanghai-bound flight will depart from Heathrow on 23 April, while Beijing-bound flights will begin from 3 June, operating four flights a week.

Virgin Atlantic will also resume flights to Shanghai, with the first flight leaving on 1 May. Several Chinese airlines are also operating direct flights to China, including Air China (to Beijing), China Southern (to Guangzhou), and China Eastern (to Shanghai).

There are of course many other flight routes to China involving transfer via Europe, Hong Kong, or other destinations – if taking a non-direct route, please note pandemic/visa requirements in the transit country as well.

Click here to read more about the new flights (in English), or visit airlines’ websites directly for full ticketing information.

Entry requirements to China

As of 8 January 2023, all travellers to China need a negative PCR test to enter the country – this should be done within 48 hours of your flight TO CHINA  – please note these timings if you are transiting through a third country. Tests are available at major UK airports including Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and Edinburgh airports, or you can search for a local provider. Companies such as Randox have multiple locations across the UK providing PCR tests for travel – click here to read the full list of Randox testing locations.

This test result will be checked upon your departure from the UK, and a physical printout is recommended. You will also be asked to fill in a Health Declaration Form from China Customs on arrival in China – a QR code will be available to scan and complete this form upon arrival.

Please note all children over 2 years old also require a negative PCR test result.

Entry requirements to the UK

If you are travelling to the UK from China, you are also required to take a pre-departure Covid test (as of 5 January 2023) for anyone aged 12 and over. Please note the test result must include ENGLISH translation – please check in advance with your local hospitals to find one which can provide testing in English.

The test can be either printed or in the form of an email or text message – to read the full list of requirements, please click here to visit the UK government website.

Visa requirements

Getting a chinese visa as a uk national.

Applications for business visas, work visas and other visa types are open, although tourist visas remain unavailable for the time being.

The UK has Chinese visa centres in London, Manchester, Edinburgh and Belfast. After making an online application, applicants will be required to attend the visa centre in person and have their fingerprints collected (excepting children 13 and under, and adults 70 and over).

To find out more about Chinese visa requirements and to apply directly, click here to see the latest announcement from the Chinese Embassy in the UK (updated on 8 January 2023).

Getting a visa for the United Kingdom as a Chinese national

The visa type you need will depend on the purpose and length of your stay – the UK government has a tool on their website for you to check the visa type you need to apply for. There are 15 UK visa centres in China; please note you will need to apply online and confirm your appointment before attending in person.

Click here to find out more about how to get a UK visa – guidance available in Chinese once you select which visa you are applying for. To find out where your nearest UK visa centre is and what you need to bring, please click here .

Please note that this article is up-to-date as of its publication on 6 February 2023. Travel requirements may change at any moment – we recommend you follow the links provided in this article to the UK government websites and Chinese Embassy in the UK for the most up-to-date information.

If you or your business are facing any issues with flights, visas or entry requirements, please let us know at:

[email protected]

Do not have an account? Register now . Not a member yet? Join now .

Want to become a member?

China Travel Restrictions & Travel Advisory (Updated March 7, 2024)

China Travel Restrictions & Travel Advisory (Updated March 7, 2024)

Updates March 7th, 2024 : Travelers from the following countries could enjoy visa-free entry to China for tourism, business, transit, or visiting friends and relatives. 

  • From December 1st, 2023, to November 30th, 2024: France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, and Spain.
  • From March 14th to November 30th, 2024: Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, and Switzerland.
  • Singapore, Brunei
  • Malaysia (from December 1st, 2023 to November 30th, 2024)

If you want to arrange a private tour, even tentatively, simply contact us . 

Content Preview

  • What Ways to Enter China
  • Do I Still Need a PCR Test to Enter China
  • Hong Kong/Macau Travel Restriction

International Flights to China

What to expect when traveling in china, best times to travel to china, 8 ways to enter china: all open now.

Since China has fully permitted visa applications, there are now several ways to enter the country.

If you still hold a valid Chinese visa (any type including a tourist visa, 10-year visa, etc.), you can use it to enter China.

If you don't have a Chinese visa or your visa has expired, you can apply for a new one. All visas can now be applied for, including tourist visas, business visas, work visas, and so on. (International visitors can apply for a tourist visa to the Chinese Mainland in Hong Kong.)

For the documents required for a visa application, you can refer to the information given by a Chinese embassy/consulate . Please submit your application at least two months in advance.

To apply for a tourist visa (L visa), you will be asked to provide an invitation letter issued by a Chinese travel agency or individual or round-trip air tickets and hotel bookings.

When booking a private tour with us, we can provide you with an invitation letter, which is one more thing we do to make your travel more convenient, giving you more flexibility with your air tickets and hotel bookings.

Now it is very easy to apply for a visa . You can easily apply by yourself without an intermediary. The following is how one of our clients successfully applied for a Chinese tourist visa:

  • First, fill out the form at the China Online Visa Application website ;
  • Second, make an appointment on this website to submit your visa materials on Appointment for Visa Application Submission website ;
  • Third, take the required documents to the embassy to submit;
  • Finally, you will get a return receipt if your documents are qualified.

Usually, you will get your visa after 7 working days. The application fee is about USD185 for US citizens.

Q: What if my passport expires but my visa doesn't?

A: You can travel to China on the expired passport containing valid Chinese visa in combination with the new passport, provided that the identity information (name, date of birth, gender, nationality) on both passport identical.

If there is a change to any of the above details, you must apply for a new visa.

2. 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy

If you do not apply for a Chinese visa, you may still have the opportunity to visit these areas of China visa free: the Shanghai area (including Suzhou, Hangzhou, etc.), the Beijing area (with Tianjin and Hebei), the Guangzhou area (Shenzhen, Zhuhai, etc.), and more. Take advantage of the 6-day visa-free entitlements.

Find out if you could use the 144-hour visa-free transit policy with our information on China's 144-hour Visa-Free Policy (Eligible Entry/Exit Ports, Applicable Countries, Documents to be Prepared...)

You can also obtain entry and exit control policies through the 24-hour hotline of the National Immigration Administration:

  • Beijing: 0086 (+86)-10-12367
  • Shanghai: 0086 (+86)-21-12367
  • Guangzhou: 0086 (+86)-20-12367

Quick Test: Will My Route Qualify for China 72/144-Hour Visa-Free Transit?

1. I will depart from (only applies to direct or connected flight):

2. I will arrive in China at [city], [airport / railway station / port].

3. My arrival date is...

4. I will leave for [country/region] from China (the bounding destination on the air ticket):

5. My departure date is...

6. My nationality is...

8. I have Chinese visa refusal stamps in my passport.

You qualify to enjoy China's 72-hour visa-free policy.

You qualify to enjoy China's 144-hour visa-free policy.

You don't qualify to enjoy China's 72-hour or 144-hour visa-free policy.

Reason you don't qualify:

  • You must be in transit to a third country or region.
  • You must leave the city area (prefecture or municipality) after the 72/144 hours (the 72/144-hour limit is calculated starting from 00:00 on the day after arrival, i.e. 24:00 on the arrival date).
  • Your passport must be valid for more than 3 months at the time of entry into China.
  • Your passport nationality is not eligible for the 72/144-hour visa exemption program.
  • You have Chinese visa refusal stamps in your passport.

3. Port Visas (Landing Visas)

If you don't have time to get a visa, or if you find it cumbersome to apply for a tourist visa, you could consider traveling to China through a port visa.

Port visas can be applied for a group at least including 2 people. You need to enter the country within 15 days after you get your entry permit. The port visa allows a stay period of 1 to 2 months.

Applicable ports include Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Guilin, Xi'an, Chengdu, etc.

Note: Tourists from America are not granted a port visa in Shanghai.

Book your China trip with us and we can help you apply for a port visa.

4. Visa Exemption for ASEAN Tour Groups to Guilin

In addition, tour groups from ASEAN member countries, including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Singapore, Myanmar, Brunei, and the Philippines, can visit Guilin for 144 hours without visas as long as they meet the visa-free transit policy requirements.

5. Shanghai Visa-Free Policy for Cruise Groups

Shanghai has a 15-day visa-free policy for foreign tourist groups entering China via a cruise. You must arrive and depart on the same cruise and be received by a Chinese travel agent at the Shanghai Cruise Terminal (or Wusong Passenger Center).

6. Hainan Visa-Free Access

No visa is required for staying on Hainan Island for up to 30 days for ordinary passport holders from 59 countries. Groups and individual tourists must book a tour through an accredited travel agency.

Find out whether you qualify for the policy here .

7. Visa Exemption for the Pearl River Delta Area

International travelers from Hong Kong or Macau are able to visit the Pearl River Delta area (Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, etc.) visa-free as long as they go with a registered tour provider, such as us.

8. APEC Cards

If you hold a valid APEC business travel card, you can simply enter China with the card without applying for a visa.

Travelers who hold a valid APEC business travel card can stay in China for up to 60 days.

  • 4-Day Beijing Private Tour - Essence of Beijing
  • 11-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Guilin–Shanghai Tour - Classic Wonders
  • 13-Day Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Shanghai Educational Family Vacation

Do I Still Need a PCR Test or Antigen Self-Test to Enter China

No. Starting from August 30, all travelers entering China will no longer need to undergo any COVID-19 testing. You do not need to submit any test results for COVID-19 before departure.

  • 8-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Shanghai Private Tour - China Golden Triangle
  • 13-Day Riches of China - Beijing – Xi'an – Guilin/Yangshuo – Hangzhou - Suzhou – Shanghai

Hong Kong / Macau Travel Restriction

Hong kong entry requirements.

Travelers from any region bound for Hong Kong will no longer need to take pre-flight COVID-19 tests (no PCR test, no RAT test) from April 1.

There is also no need for any tests when traveling from Hong Kong to the Chinese Mainland. Hong Kong could be a good gateway for your China trip. See suggestions on China Itineraries from Hong Kong (from 1 Week to 3 Weeks).

Direct high-speed trains from Guangzhou and Shenzhen to Hong Kong are available now. In preparation for the Canton Fair, it is expected that direct high-speed ferries will be launched from Guangzhou Pazhou Port to Hong Kong's airport in mid-April.

  • 10 Top China Tours from Hong Kong

Macau Entry Requirement

From August 30, travelers from any region bound for Macau will no longer need to take pre-flight COVID-19 tests (no PCR test, no RAT test).

There is also no need for any tests when traveling from Macau to the Chinese Mainland.

Inbound and outbound international flights in the week beginning March 6th rose by more than 350% compared with a year earlier, to nearly 2,500 flights, according to Chinese flight tracking data from APP Flight Master.

At present, there are one or two direct flights a week from New York to Shanghai, Los Angeles to Beijing, Seattle to Shanghai, London to Guangzhou, etc.

There are also many flight options with stopovers that are more frequent and affordable. Testing at transit airports is now not required!

The Coronavirus outbreak in China has subsided. China looks like it did in 2019 again. No special measures (like PCR tests or health codes) are required when traveling around China. All attractions are open as normal.

Wearing a mask is not mandatory when traveling. In hotels, masks are off for the most part. But in some crowded places, such as airports or subway stations, many people still wear masks.

Weather-wise, the best times to visit China are spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October), when most of the popular places have their most tourism-friendly weather, except for the "golden weeks" — the first week of May and of October — when most attractions are flooded with Chinese tourists.

If you are looking for smaller crowds, favorable prices, and still good weather, you should consider March and April or September.

Tourism in cultural and historical destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an is hardly affected by weather conditions. They are suitable to be visited all year round.

  • 11-Day Family Happiness - Beijing–Xi'an–Guilin/Yangshuo-Shanghai
  • 13-Day Private Tour: Beijing – Xi'an – Chengdu –Yangtze Cruise – Shanghai - China Essence and Panda Tour
  • More Chengdu and Panda tours

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Tour China with Us

We've been building our team for over 20 years. Even over the past three years we have continued, serving over 10,000 expats with China tours and getting a lot of praise (see TripAdvisor ).

We are based in China and can show you the characteristics and charm of China from a unique perspective. Just contact us to create your China trip .

Our consultants will listen to and answer your inquiries carefully and prepare the best plan for you.

  • 8-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Shanghai Highlights Tour — the classic Golden Triangle
  • 11-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Guilin–Shanghai — our top itinerary for families
  • 2-Week Beijing – Xi'an – Chengdu – Yangtze Cruise – Shanghai Tour — the best choice for panda fans

Private China Tours

  • 13-Day A Broad Taste of China
  • 9-Day Beyond the Golden Triangle
  • 2-Week Private China Tour: Beijing–Xi'an–Lhasa-Shanghai
  • 11-Day Family Happiness
  • 12-day Panda Keeper and Classic Wonders
  • 13-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Dunhuang–Urumqi–Shanghai Tour
  • 14-Day China Natural Wonders Discovery
  • 14-Day Classic China Photo Tour
  • 2-Week Riches of China
  • 3-Week Must-See Places China Tour Including Holy Tibet
  • How to Plan Your First Trip to China 2024/2025 — 7 Easy Steps
  • Best (& Worst) Times to Visit China, Travel Tips (2024/2025)
  • 15 Best Places to Visit in China (2024)
  • The 15 Most Beautiful Places in China (#7 Will Impress You)
  • One Week in China - 4 Time-Smart Itineraries
  • How to Plan a 10-Day Itinerary in China (Best 5 Options)
  • Top 4 China Itinerary Options in 12 Days (for First Timers) 2024/2025
  • 2-Week China Itineraries: Where to Go & Routes (2024)
  • 17-Day China Itineraries: 4 Unique Options
  • How to Spend 19 Days in China in 2024/2025 (Top 5 Options and Costs)
  • How to Plan a 3-Week Itinerary in China: Best 3 Options (2024)
  • China Itineraries from Hong Kong for 1 Week to 3 Weeks
  • China Weather in January 2024: Enjoy Less-Crowded Traveling
  • China Weather in February 2024: Places to Go, Costs, and Crowds
  • China Weather in March 2024: Destinations, Crowds, and Costs
  • China Weather in April 2024: Where to Go (Smart Pre-Season Pick)
  • China Weather in May 2024: Where to Go, Crowds, and Costs
  • China Weather in June 2024: How to Benefit from the Rainy Season
  • China Weather in July 2024: How to Avoid Heat and Crowds
  • China Weather in August: Tips for Family Travel
  • China Weather in September: a Quieter Month in the Peak Season
  • China Weather in October: Where to Go, Crowds, and Costs
  • China Weather in November: Places to Go, Costs, and Crowds
  • China Weather in December: Places to Go, Costs, and Crowds

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

More travel ideas and inspiration, sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why China Highlights

Where can we take you today.

  • Southeast Asia
  • Japan, South Korea
  • India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri lanka
  • Central Asia
  • Middle East
  • African Safari

china uk travel restrictions

  • Travel Agents
  • Loyalty & Referral Program
  • Privacy Policy

China Highlights was featured on these medias.

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

china uk travel restrictions

Can I travel to China? Latest restrictions and advice for UK travellers after Covid rules ease

Quarantine rules have been scrapped, but only certain groups of international visitors are permitted.

china can i visit travel rules covid test quarantine visas tourism

China relaxed its border rules for inbound travellers on 8 January after nearly three years of stringent controls.

Quarantine requirements have been dropped for international arrivals, but travel to the country remains restricted and China is effectively closed to tourism.

The Chinese government is allowing visa applications from international visitors travelling to the country for business, employment, study or to visit family.

Who can travel to mainland China?

British nationals must have a visa to enter mainland China, including Hainan Island, but excluding Hong Kong and Macao.

As it stands, visas are only being issued to the following groups:

  • Relatives of Chinese citizens or people who hold a Chinese permanent residence permit who intend to visit their family member or family members;
  • People intending to visit a family member in China who holds a Z, M or F visa;
  • Business travellers who have an official invitation from a provincial foreign affairs office or department of commerce;
  • Applicants who have received a letter confirming a foreigners’ work permit or who qualify for a high-level talent visa;
  • Applicants who qualify for a transport crew visa.

What are the new entry rules?

Travellers who are permitted to visit China are required to take a Covid PCR test and submit the result by completing the Health Declaration Form via the China Customs website or through the China Customs App or WeChat account.

Anyone who tests positive will not be permitted to board a flight to China.

Passengers who arrive in China with symptoms of fever, or whose Health Declaration is cause for concern, may be requested to take an antigen test.

Those who test positive will be required to self-isolate if the symptoms are mild, or may be required to go to a medical institution if their symptoms are more severe.

Children aged five and under are included in the requirement to apply for a Customs Code Health Declaration.

More from Travel

I visit this part of Ireland every year. You'll love its pubs, walks and coast

What are the rules for travel to Hong Kong and Macao?

Hong Kong is part of China, but it remains a Special Administrative Region with its own immigration controls.

You can visit Hong Kong for up to six months without a visa, but Covid-related rules till apply.

Vaccinated tourists can visit Hong Kong, but they will need to provide a pre-departure negative Covid test result – either from an antigen test taken no more than 24 hours prior to departure or a PCR test taken no more than 48 hours before departure.

Travellers are advised to keep photos showing the negative rapid antigen test result or the test report for a negative PCR test. They can also voluntarily declare the test result via the Department of Health’s electronic health declaration form . Further details can be found on the Hong Kong SAR Government’s website .

The vaccine pass has been scrapped, but masks are required in all indoor and outdoor public venues.

Macau is also open to travellers and you can stay for up to six months without a visa.

All overseas arrivals (except those from mainland China, Hong Kong or Taiwan) must provide a negative result from a Covid test performed within the previous 48 hours for travel to Macao. Those who opt for a rapid antigen test result should declare the result on Macao’s Rapid Antigen Test Reporting platform.

Does the UK have rules for arrivals from China?

Yes, travellers aged 12 or over arriving in England from mainland China are required to take a pre-departure Covid test .

The only direct flights running from China are to Heathrow and Manchester airports. However, passengers who travel from China via a connecting flight with a ticket showing the UK as their destination must also take a pre-departure Covid test.

Voluntary testing on arrival is in place at Heathrow for passengers from China. Those who test positive are not subject to self-isolation or quarantine. The UK says these tests will “help strengthen the UK’s ability to rapidly detect potential new variants circulating in China”.

Most Read By Subscribers

  • KAYAK for Business NEW

China Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from the United Kingdom to China

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Recommended on public transportation.

Ready to travel?

Find flights to china, find stays in china, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, netherlands, new zealand, philippines, switzerland, united arab emirates, united states, know when to go.

Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know.

Can I travel to China from the United Kingdom?

Most visitors from the United Kingdom, regardless of vaccination status, can enter China.

Can I travel to China if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United Kingdom can enter China without restrictions.

Can I travel to China without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United Kingdom can enter China without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter China?

Visitors from the United Kingdom are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering China.

Can I travel to China without quarantine?

Travellers from the United Kingdom are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in China?

Mask usage in China is recommended on public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in China?

Restaurants in China are open. Bars in China are .

UK Edition Change

  • UK Politics
  • News Videos
  • Paris 2024 Olympics
  • Rugby Union
  • Sport Videos
  • John Rentoul
  • Mary Dejevsky
  • Andrew Grice
  • Sean O’Grady
  • Photography
  • Theatre & Dance
  • Culture Videos
  • Food & Drink
  • Health & Families
  • Royal Family
  • Electric Vehicles
  • Lifestyle Videos
  • UK Hotel Reviews
  • News & Advice
  • Simon Calder
  • Australia & New Zealand
  • South America
  • C. America & Caribbean
  • Middle East
  • Politics Explained
  • News Analysis
  • Today’s Edition
  • Home & Garden
  • Fashion & Beauty
  • Travel & Outdoors
  • Sports & Fitness
  • Sustainable Living
  • Climate Videos
  • Behind The Headlines
  • On The Ground
  • Decomplicated
  • You Ask The Questions
  • Binge Watch
  • Travel Smart
  • Watch on your TV
  • Crosswords & Puzzles
  • Most Commented
  • Newsletters
  • Ask Me Anything
  • Virtual Events
  • Betting Sites
  • Online Casinos
  • Wine Offers

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

Covid travel restrictions return – the new rules explained

All travellers from mainland china need a pre-departure test, and some will be tested for covid on arrival, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Testing times: London Heathrow Terminal 5 at the height of the Covid pandemic

Simon Calder’s Travel

Sign up to Simon Calder’s free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts

Get simon calder’s travel email, thanks for signing up to the simon calder’s travel email.

Covid travel restrictions are back. Every traveller flying from mainland China to England must provide a negative test result before being allowed on the plane.

In addition travellers flying direct from China to Heathrow may be invited to take a second test on arrival. The government says as many as 20 per cent of arriving passengers could be checked, though they are able to decline the invitation.

The government announced the measures a day after saying there were no plans to reintroduce Covid testing.

Why the new rules?

Since China abandoned its “zero Covid” policy, the virus has spread extremely fast through the People’s Republic. The life science data analytics firm Airfinity predicts infections will reach 3.7 million cases a day by the end of this week, with deaths estimated to peak 10 days later at around 25,000 a day.

At the same time, Beijing has now eased border restrictions, allowing more citizens to leave.

The UK government fears the sudden changes in China increase the risk of a dangerous variant arriving. That concern is shared by Italy, the US, Japan and an increasing number of other countries that have introduced testing requirements.

Ministers here say the travel restrictions are necessary to detect “any new variants which may be circulating in China that could evade the immune response of those already vaccinated or which have the potential to successfully outcompete other variants and spread internationally”.

They are concerned about what they say is Beijing’s unwillingness to share data on the spread of the virus. But the UK government says it is “working with China on next steps” and that the measures will be reviewed “if there are improvements in information sharing and greater transparency”.

Recommended

  • China says Covid entry restrictions by countries lack scientific basis and are unreasonable
  • Covid-positive China arrivals will not have to quarantine, minister confirms
  • What is XBB Covid? The new Omicron variant that has led to surge in cases

What is the new procedure?

Passengers aged 12 and above arriving from mainland China, not including Hong Kong , to England must take a Covid-19 test no more than two days before departure and show the negative result to airline staff at check-in. It can be PCR or lateral flow (rapid antigen); the latter is faster and generally much cheaper.

The airlines are required to do the checking.

The UK government has wheeled out its testing specification from the height of the Covid pandemic, which means the result notification can be in English, French or Spanish but not Mandarin. It can be provided as a printed document, or an email or text message on a phone.

The name must match your passport exactly and show your date of birth or age. It must specify the test provider (with contact details) and the date the test sample was collected or received.

The government says: “You cannot use an NHS-provided test as a pre-departure test.”

Most flights from mainland China currently arrive at London Heathrow (with a weekly Beijing-Manchester flight on Hainan Airlines), but the intention is to apply the restrictions UK-wide.

After they land, passengers aged 18 and above may be asked to take a second test, “to enhance existing measures to monitor for new variants”. Only Heathrow wil offer this option, and there is nothing to stop travellers declining and leaving the airport.

Can travellers show proof of recent infection instead?

No, only a negative Covid test will do.

Weren’t we told that Covid restrictions were over?

Yes. Last March, the-then transport secretary, Grant Shapps, said the UK was “leading the world in removing all remaining Covid travel restrictions” and thereby “keeping international travel moving”.

The government said it would “maintain a range of contingency measures in reserve” but deploy them only “in extreme circumstances” to delay any future harmful variants of Covid entering the UK should the need arise.

Mark Harper, the transport secretary, insists: “China’s lack of reliable Covid data means these sensible, proportionate and temporary measures are needed ahead of their borders reopening.”

Covid cases have surged in China since the country lifted restrictions

Do many people travel direct from mainland China to the UK?

No. The previous Chinese restrictions mean that typically only one or two planes, with 300-500 passengers per day, are arriving from the People’s Republic to London Heathrow. To put that in perspective, more than 10 times as many people come in from New York alone each day.

In addition, there is a weekly flight from Beijing to Manchester.

What about travelling via another location?

The new rules apply “to all direct and indirect flights originating from mainland China”.

People who travel from other parts of China to fly from the UK to Hong Kong are included. A Xian-Hong Kong-Heathrow ticket holder will need a test. but those who originate in China but travel to Hong Kong on a separate ticket, or overland, it is not clear how airline staff would know they need to provide a test certificate. Three daily flights from Hong Kong currently serve London Heathrow on Cathay Pacific and British Airways.

Many passengers between China and the UK travel via the Gulf, in particular Dubai and Doha. Anyone who has a through ticket that shows an itinerary of, say, Shanghai-Dubai-Birmingham, must provide the necessary test result at check-in in China.

But as Scotland has not yet brought back travel restrictions, if they fly Shanghai-Dubai-Glasgow they would not need to provide a test. Whether a hard-pressed check-in agent in China would appreciated the difference between England and Scotland is a different matter.

If an arrival from China tests positive for Covid, what happens next?

The UK Health Security Agency has launched surveillance at Heathrow. Randomly selected arrivals from mainland China are invited to be tested for Covid at the airport.

The government says: “All positive samples will be sent for sequencing.” But arrivals with Covid will need not to self-isolate nor go into hotel quarantine, Anyone in this situation is asked to follow the standard UK guidance for people with Covid, including to “avoid crowded places such as public transport, large social gatherings, or anywhere that is enclosed or poorly ventilated”.

It says: “Try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people for five days after the day you took your test.

“You may wish to ask friends, family or neighbours to get food and other essentials for you.

“At the end of this period, if you have a high temperature or feel unwell, try to follow this advice until you feel well enough to resume normal activities and you no longer have a high temperature if you had one.”

What do the scientists say?

Professor Susan Hopkins, chief medical advisor at the UK Health Security Agency, said: “In order to improve our intelligence, we are enhancing our surveillance, in addition to our current routine testing protocol.”

But she said there is no evidence of potentially harmful variants circulating.

“The evidence suggests the recent rise in cases in China is due to low natural immunity and lower vaccine uptake including boosters rather than the emergence of new Covid-19 variants,” she said.

Many scientists are sceptical about the value of pre-departure tests from China, and say that to be effective, travel restrictions would require negative PCR testing of everyone flying to the UK from anywhere in the world.

Adam Kucharski, co-director of the Centre for Epidemic Preparedness & Response, said: “If an epidemic is growing, most infected people will have been infected very recently. Which also means they’re less likely to test positive.”

Dr Chris Smith, clinical lecturer in virology at Cambridge University, told BBC 5 Live: “I’m aligned with what Chris Whitty is said to have briefed Rishi Sunak, which is that screening people and then preventing them from coming is not going to make a great deal of difference.

“If you look at the burden of disease we already have in the country, we estimate – based on various surveys and sampling measures that are going on all the time – there’s something like 1-1.5 million cases of coronavirus infection in the UK already per week at the moment.”

Dr Smith said it was more important to screen on arrival – including analysing waste water on aircraft for viruses.

“This is valuable because it gives us a snapshot of what the virus is doing on the ground,” he said.

Planes arriving at Canada’s main airports, Toronto and Vancouver, have waste water tested to assess Covid prevalence from various regions of the world.

The Canadian public health agency said: “The samples are then sequenced to monitor for novel variants of concern.”

A woman wearing a mask walks on the street of Beijing, Friday, Dec. 30, 2022

How has the travel industry reacted to the move?

With anger in some quarters. China is extremely important for global tourism and business travel. Before the pandemic, it accounted for one-fifth of all international spending. The travel industry was looking forward to a swift increase in Chinese people venturing abroad to help their financial recovery.

Willie Walsh, director-general of the International Air Transport Association ( Iata ), said: “It is extremely disappointing to see this knee-jerk reinstatement of measures that have proven ineffective over the last three years.

“Research undertaken around the arrival of the Omicron variant concluded that putting barriers in the way of travel made no difference to the peak spread of infections.

“At most, restrictions delayed that peak by a few days. If a new variant emerges in any part of the world, the same situation would be expected.”

Clive Wratten, chief executive of the Business Travel Association, called the move “a sucker punch to the entire travel industry” and “a huge step backwards for customer and corporate confidence”. He said Britain could be “inching back towards being an isolated island”.

Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of the Advantage Travel Partnership, said: “This policy makes no sense at all.”

But Paul Charles, chief executive of The PC Agency, said: “This is a sensible and targeted light touch measure which ensures those departing China are Covid-negative. It also buys time for the UK government to gather and assess more information themselves about the extent of Covid within the country.

“This measure will help to prevent any future wider measures which would be damaging to travel overall.”

Could Covid testing spread?

That is clearly a possibility. China is a special case of a vast population in which Covid infections are running extremely high and with a lack of openness from the health authorities.

But following the government’s speedy U-turn on China, if other nations are perceived to present a threat because of high infection levels or fears of dangerous variants then pressure could grow for expanding controls once again.

The World Health Organisation insists: “Travel bans will not prevent the international spread, and they place a heavy burden on lives and livelihoods.”

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Want an ad-free experience?

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

  • My Independent Premium
  • Account details
  • Help centre

Accessibility Links

times logo

Can I travel to China? The travel restrictions explained

Covid tests have been scrapped and cruising is restarting in china. here’s what you need to know.

china uk travel restrictions

T ourists to China no longer need to provide a negative PCR test before entry, removing the last major Covid travel restriction for entering the country. The move follows the reintroduction of tourist visas in March, as well as the reinstatement of the visa-free transit policy. Meanwhile, international cruising will restart from Shanghai in June. Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning a trip.

Main photo: The fortifications of Xi’an (Getty Images)

The Great Wall of China (Getty Images)

What are the entry requirements?

Visitors no longer need to show a negative PCR test to enter China , marking the end of Covid travel restrictions for inbound travellers.

China started issuing tourist visas again on March 15, 2023, the first time it has done this since 2020. It has also reinstated visa-free status to destinations such as Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, Tianjin, Chengdu, Xiamen, Kunming and Guangzhou. UK passport holders to these destinations are able to enter the country for a limited period of time without having to obtain a visa prior to travel, provided they satisfy certain criteria, such as only entering and exiting the country via specified airports.

Any previously issued visas that are still valid have also been restored, meaning those who already have a visa will not need to obtain a new one.

Advertisement

For those hoping to visit China as part of a cruise, there’s good news there too. After regional trials, the port in Shanghai will reopen to international cruises from June 19. As Shanghai is one of the visa-free destinations, most visitors will be able to explore the city without having to get a tourist visa.

Do I need to take a test to enter?

You will no longer need proof of a PCR Covid test taken before travel to enter the country. Mask mandates in the country have also been dropped, although many people will still wear one.

There are different rules for entering Hong Kong , which is already open to visitors and doesn’t require either a vaccine passport or a negative test. All passengers due to land in China will be required to wear a mask on the plane.

Get inspired

• China travel guide • Best things to do in China • When is the best time to visit the Great Wall of China? • Best places to visit in China

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here .

Related articles

When is the best time to visit the Great Wall of China?

  • Opportunities
  • Market Intelligence Briefs

Please note that under HESA regulations only institutions contributing data to HESA are permitted to access the data mining tools. If this applies to you, and you have an account, please login to access the tools. If you do not have an account please register .

China to lift most Covid travel restrictions from 8 January 2023

You are here.

China on 26 December 2022 announced plans to downgrade Covid-19 from top-level Category A to less-strict Category B in its national infection management system and lift Covid travel restrictions for inbound and outbound travels.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ notice, the following changes will take effect from 8 January 2023:

  • International Inbound Travellers:

International inbound travellers will no longer be tested or quarantined upon arrival. However, travellers will still need to upload a negative NAT test result, taken within 48 hours pre-departure, to the online China Customs platform before boarding their flight.

  • International Flights:

All flight bans and quotas, or the “circuit breaker”, will be lifted from the same date, and international flights are said to be resumed gradually.

Visa issuance for work, business, study and family visit purposes will be resumed to accommodate respective needs. However, tourist visas are still said to be under review at the moment.

  • Outbound Chinese Travellers:

Outbound travel will be resumed as well. So far, many cities in China have resumed passport renewal and issuance services for Chinese citizens, which had been restricted to people with necessary reasons to travel (e.g., study, business, family visit) for almost three years since the pandemic began in 2020.

However, due to the current surge in infections in China, the UK government has introduced precautionary and temporary measures. From 5 January 2023 all passengers from China (including the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions) arriving in England will have to provide a negative NAT test result, taken within 48 hours pre-departure, before boarding their flight. The UK government has also announced that it is working with the devolved nations to implement similar rules UK-wide. Some tests will be done upon arrival on a voluntary basis to monitor for potential new variants.

What does it mean to the UK institutions?

From 8 January 2023, UK travellers will be able to enter China without being quarantined. Since visa issuance and international flights will be resumed gradually, China is expected to welcome a growing number of business visitors and international students in 2023.

Meanwhile, because outbound travel controls are being lifted as well, the UK is expected to see an increasing number of Chinese visitors, including business visitors, international students, and tourists.

UK universities who are planning to visit China or organise events in China in the next one or two months should be cautious and keep an eye on the development of the Covid situation and follow the guidance of the UK government.

References:

UK Government Travel Requirements: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-to-england-from-another-country-during-coronavirus-covid-19

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China’s Notice on Interim Measure for the Exchange of Chinese and Foreign Personnel: https://www.fmprc.gov.cn/wjbxw_new/202212/t20221227_10995607.shtml

Related news

china uk travel restrictions

Philippine universities cease senior high school programmes

china uk travel restrictions

Japan aims to double joint degrees by 2033

china uk travel restrictions

Candidates can now apply for 2024 LPDP scholarships

Sign up to our newsletter.

Keep up to date with the latest news from the British Council.

Twitter icon

Footer menu

  • British Council Global
  • Eligibility criteria
  • Accessibility
  • Privacy and cookies

© 2023 British Council The United Kingdom's international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities. A registered charity: 209131 (England and Wales) SC037733 (Scotland).

  • Saudi Arabia
  • Palestine-Israel
  • Arab Showcase
  • Australasia
  • The Americas
  • Environment
  • Road to Net Zero
  • Art & Design
  • Film & TV
  • Music & On-stage
  • Pop Culture
  • Fashion & Beauty
  • Home & Garden
  • Things to do
  • Combat Sports
  • Horse Racing
  • Beyond the Headlines
  • Trending Middle East
  • Business Extra
  • Culture Bites
  • Year of Elections
  • Pocketful of Dirhams
  • Books of My Life
  • Iraq: 20 Years On

UK considers Covid-19 travel restrictions on passengers from China

Several countries including the us, japan, italy and india have introduced mandatory tests for chinese travellers.

People at Heathrow Airport after arriving on a flight from Shanghai. Getty

People at Heathrow Airport after arriving on a flight from Shanghai. Getty

Laura O'Callaghan author image

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is understood to be considering imposing restrictions on travellers from China amid mounting concerns about the increase in Covid cases.

Ministers are discussing bringing back measures for the first time since all rules were relaxed on March 18.

Spain said on Friday it would require air passengers coming from China to have negative tests or proof of vaccination.

The US, Italy Japan and India are among the countries to have already announced mandatory tests for passengers from China due to a recent surge in infections.

Steve Barclay, the Health Secretary, held a meeting with Sir Chris Whitty, England’s chief medical officer, and Jenny Harries, the chief executive of the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), to discuss a possible reintroduction of Covid travel rules.

They decided against announcing new rules, but ministers did not rule out a return of measures.

China is preparing to open up its borders in January and issue passports and visas, despite a surge in Covid-19 infections.

About 5,000 new cases have been recorded in China each day, but analysts say the daily count could be closer to one million.

Steve Brine, chairman of the House of Commons health committee, has accused China of refusing to reveal the extent of the outbreak in the country.

"We know their data is withheld and unreliable," he said.

The resurgence of Covid has hit hospitals in China hard and left people struggling to find basic medical supplies.

China’s plan to allow citizens to travel abroad again has caused concern among some governments and led to restrictions being imposed.

Covid in China latest - in pictures

People stand outside a funeral home in Shanghai, as cases of Covid-19 surge in China. Reuters

People stand outside a funeral home in Shanghai, as cases of Covid-19 surge in China. Reuters

A spokesman for Mr Sunak’s government said: “We are keeping the situation under review and UKHSA is monitoring the public health situation.

“At the moment there are no plans to introduce any new Covid 19 testing for arrivals.”

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said on Thursday that the government would “review whether different countries with Covid outbreaks etc should obviously face difference restrictions”.

The position of the UK is similar to the line taken by the EU.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control on Thursday said “screenings and travel measures on travellers from China [were] unjustified”, as potential imported infections were “rather low” compared with the numbers already circulating on a daily basis.

It also said that healthcare systems “are currently able to manage” Europe's caseload.

But a leading immunologist in the UK has said screening travellers from China for Covid is unlikely to prevent new variants reaching Britain.

Prof Andrew Pollard, chairman of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation, expressed doubt that testing could prove effective in stopping variants reaching the countries.

“Trying to ban a virus by adjusting what we do with travel has already been shown not to work very well,” he told the BBC Radio 4 Today programme.

“We have seen that with the bans on travel from various countries during the pandemic.

“The important thing is that we have surveillance that when a virus is spreading within our population here in the UK or Europe we are able to pick that up and predict what might happen with the health systems and particularly the more vulnerable in the population.”

Minister of State for Health Will Quince said the biggest threat came from the potential for the emergence of new variants.

View from London

Your weekly update from the UK and Europe

View from London

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

china uk travel restrictions

  • International travel, immigration and repatriation during COVID-19
  • Entering England during COVID-19

Travel to England from another country – COVID-19 rules

Check if there are any COVID-19 rules in place for travel to England from abroad.

Applies to England

  • Guidance for Northern Ireland
  • Guidance for Scotland
  • Guidance for Wales

Travel to England rules

When you travel to England, you:

  • do not need to complete a UK passenger locator form before you travel
  • do not need to take any COVID-19 tests before you travel or after you arrive
  • do not need to quarantine when you arrive

This applies whether you are vaccinated or not.

It includes people who are transiting through England.

Other countries may have rules about what you need to do to leave the country to travel to England. You should check travel advice for the country you are travelling from.

How to stay safe while in the UK and on public transport

Check separate public health guidance on how to stay safe and help prevent the spread of COVID-19 while you are in the UK .

Travel provider and transport hub rules

Your travel provider, or the transport hub you travel through, may have COVID-19 rules in place. For example, they may require or advise you to wear a face covering.

You should follow any COVID-19 rules and guidance from:

  • your travel provider – airline, ferry, coach or train company
  • the transport venue – airport, port, coach or railway station

Travel abroad from the UK

Other countries may still have COVID-19 rules that you must follow to travel there from the UK .

Check the ‘Entry requirements’ section of foreign travel advice for all countries you will visit or travel through .

You do not need to take any COVID-19 tests to travel to England from mainland China.

Updated rules for people travelling from mainland China announced.

New rules for travel from China come into force today.

More information about COVID-19 testing requirements for travel from mainland China to England.

From 5 January, people flying from mainland China to England will be asked to take a COVID-19 pre-departure test.

When you arrive in England from abroad you do not need to take any COVID-19 tests or fill in a UK passenger locator form.

If you will arrive in England after 4am, Friday 18 March, you do not need to take any COVID-19 tests or fill in a UK passenger locator form.

If you began your journey in Russia, you do not need to complete a passenger locator form, or take a COVID-19 test before travel to England or on arrival.

If you began your journey in Ukraine, you do not need to complete a passenger locator form, or take a COVID-19 test before travel to England or on arrival.

From 9am Monday 28 February, you can fill in the UK passenger locator form up to 3 days before you arrive in England.

From 24 February, there is no legal requirement to self-isolate if you get a positive day 2 test result.

You do not need to take any COVID-19 travel tests or self-isolate on arrival in England if you qualify as fully vaccinated.

The testing and quarantine rules for international travel to England will change 11 February 2022.

You can now choose a lateral flow test or a PCR test as your post arrival test.

From 4am 7 January you do not have to quarantine on arrival in England if you qualify as fully vaccinated for travel to England.

Changes to rules for fully vaccinated people travelling to England from 4am 7 January 2022.

People who qualify as fully vaccinated for travel to England can now end self-isolation after 7 days with 2 negative lateral flow tests.

Further information about quarantine rules for children aged 4 and under.

People aged 12 years and over must COVID-19 test before they travel to England from abroad.

From 4am, Tuesday 7 December all people aged 12 years and over must also take a PCR or LFD COVID-19 test before they travel to England from abroad.

People who qualify as fully vaccinated must quarantine and take a PCR test before the end of day 2 after they arrive in England. Lateral flow tests will not be accepted.

From 4am 30 November 2021, fully vaccinated people must self-isolate and take a PCR test before the end of day 2 after they arrive in England. They may leave self-isolation if their PCR result is negative. Lateral flow tests will not be accepted.

South Africa, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia and Zimbabwe will move onto the red list at 12.00 midday Friday 26 November. A temporary flight ban will be in place and all travellers who have been in these countries must quarantine and take tests.

Travel to England rules for children no longer depend on their place of residence.

Clarification about unclear or inconclusive test results.

From 4am 22 November 2021, all children aged 17 and under will not have to quarantine on arrival in England.

People who qualify as fully vaccinated for travel to England can book a lateral flow test for use from 24 October instead of a PCR test.

From 22 October, if you qualify as fully vaccinated for travel to England, you will be able to book an antigen lateral flow device (LFD) test instead of a PCR for your ‘on arrival’ test.

Rule changes for international travel to England for people who qualify as fully vaccinated.

Changes to amber list rules on quarantine and testing.

First published.

Related content

Is this page useful.

  • Yes this page is useful
  • No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

  • Work & Careers
  • Life & Arts

Become an FT subscriber

Limited time offer save up to 40% on standard digital.

  • Global news & analysis
  • Expert opinion
  • Special features
  • FirstFT newsletter
  • Videos & Podcasts
  • Android & iOS app
  • FT Edit app
  • 10 gift articles per month

Explore more offers.

Standard digital.

  • FT Digital Edition

Premium Digital

Print + premium digital.

Then $75 per month. Complete digital access to quality FT journalism on any device. Cancel anytime during your trial.

  • 10 additional gift articles per month
  • Global news & analysis
  • Exclusive FT analysis
  • Videos & Podcasts
  • FT App on Android & iOS
  • Everything in Standard Digital
  • Premium newsletters
  • Weekday Print Edition

Complete digital access to quality FT journalism with expert analysis from industry leaders. Pay a year upfront and save 20%.

  • Everything in Print
  • Everything in Premium Digital

The new FT Digital Edition: today’s FT, cover to cover on any device. This subscription does not include access to ft.com or the FT App.

Terms & Conditions apply

Explore our full range of subscriptions.

Why the ft.

See why over a million readers pay to read the Financial Times.

International Edition

IMAGES

  1. UK's Covid Travel Restrictions Are Back

    china uk travel restrictions

  2. China travel restrictions: Which countries have new Covid rules for

    china uk travel restrictions

  3. Travel Restrictions on China due to COVID-19

    china uk travel restrictions

  4. How-Can-Foreigners-Enter-China-Under-the-COVID-19-Travel-Restrictions

    china uk travel restrictions

  5. China's easing COVID travel restrictions spark travel inquiry surge

    china uk travel restrictions

  6. Chart: Coronavirus to Have a Lasting Impact on International Travel

    china uk travel restrictions

COMMENTS

  1. China travel advice

    Still current at: 17 March 2024 Updated: 11 January 2024 Latest update: Updated information on regional risks in China ('Regional risks' page).

  2. Travelling to China

    FCDO travel advice for China. Includes safety and security, insurance, entry requirements and legal differences.

  3. Can I travel to China? Travel rules from the UK explained

    These are the entry requirements, and the UK government's advice, as of Monday 9 January 2023. Can I travel to China from the UK, and back again? Yes, with some restrictions. After almost three years of Covid stalling China's tourism industry, Thursday 5 January 2023 marked the opening of China's borders to the world once again.

  4. Latest UK-China travel updates

    Latest UK-China travel updates - flights, entry requirements and visa processes 6th February 2023. Following the relaxing of pandemic-related travel restrictions, including quarantine requirements for inbound travellers, British and Chinese airlines are resuming their regular services to China for the first time in over two years.

  5. Travel to China 2024/2025: Entry Requirements, Visas, Tours

    China Travel Restrictions & Travel Advisory (Updated March 7, 2024) Updates March 7th, 2024 : Travelers from the following countries could enjoy visa-free entry to China for tourism, business, transit, or visiting friends and relatives. From December 1st, 2023, to November 30th, 2024: France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, and Spain.

  6. Can I travel to China? Latest restrictions and advice for UK travellers

    Yes, travellers aged 12 or over arriving in England from mainland China are required to take a pre-departure Covid test. The only direct flights running from China are to Heathrow and Manchester ...

  7. China Travel Restrictions

    Bars in China are . Find continuously updated travel restrictions for China such as border, vaccination, COVID-19 testing, and quarantine requirements.

  8. Covid: Travellers from China to need negative test to enter UK in

    China seeing '9000 deaths a day' as its state media calls travel restrictions 'discriminatory' Spain to require COVID-19 tests for passengers from China

  9. China reopens borders after three years of Covid closure

    China has reopened its borders to international visitors for the first time since it imposed travel restrictions in March 2020. Incoming travellers will no longer need to quarantine - marking a ...

  10. Precautionary and temporary measures introduced to improve ...

    The government has announced a series of precautionary and temporary measures to further improve the UK's ability to detect potential new variants of COVID-19 from China, following an increase ...

  11. Covid travel restrictions return

    The new rules apply "to all direct and indirect flights originating from mainland China". People who travel from other parts of China to fly from the UK to Hong Kong are included. A Xian-Hong ...

  12. Can I travel to China? The travel restrictions explained

    Visitors no longer need to show a negative PCR test to enter China, marking the end of Covid travel restrictions for inbound travellers. China started issuing tourist visas again on March 15, 2023 ...

  13. China is reopening to foreign tourists this month: Here's everything

    According to the UK's foreign travel advice, those entering China will need to register a negative PCR test prior to departure (within 48 hours of their flight's arrival). Those arriving with ...

  14. China has reopened its borders

    After three years, the last major country still harbouring Covid travel restrictions has done away with them. China is open to tourists once again. The Great Wall beckons. The Terracotta Warriors ...

  15. China to lift most Covid travel restrictions from 8 January 2023

    China on 26 December 2022 announced plans to downgrade Covid-19 from top-level Category A to less-strict Category B in its national infection management system and lift Covid travel restrictions for inbound and outbound travels. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' notice, the following changes will take effect from 8 January 2023:

  16. Can international tourists visit China? Everything you need to ...

    China alone contributed 51% of the travel and tourism GDP in the Asia-Pacific region in 2018, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council. And Chinese travelers typically accounted for 30% ...

  17. Foreign travel advice

    Foreign travel advice. Get advice about travelling abroad, including the latest information on coronavirus, safety and security, entry requirements and travel warnings.

  18. COVID restrictions ramp up as international travel from China resumes

    The UK has U-turned on its original statement that it has no plans to bring back COVID-19 testing for those arriving from China. As of 5 January, it will require a pre-departure negative COVID-19 ...

  19. UK considers Covid-19 travel restrictions on passengers from China

    British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is understood to be considering imposing restrictions on travellers from China amid mounting concerns about the increase in Covid cases. Ministers are discussing bringing back measures for the first time since all rules were relaxed on March 18. Spain said on Friday it would require air passengers coming from ...

  20. Travel to England from another country

    5 April 2023. You do not need to take any COVID-19 tests to travel to England from mainland China. 17 March 2023. Updated rules for people travelling from mainland China announced.

  21. China eases tourist visa restrictions to boost economy

    After visa restrictions were lifted, about 214,000 people from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia visited China in December, up 28.5 per cent from November, according to ...