Despite the fourth and fifth waves of COVID-19 infections, most Asian countries continue efficiently managing their pandemic figures.
Let’s take a look at the current reopening status of 21 Asian countries reopening (or not) for tourism.
Check also: Countries Without Covid Mandates
Join our Travel Advice & Support FB Group
Which Asian countries are open for tourism?
- Brunei is open to international travelers. Different rules apply for vaccinated and unvaccinated arrivals. ARTs are no longer needed.
- Cambodia has dropped all entry restrictions for foreign arrivals.
- China is open to foreign nationals with work or residence visas and Indian students and businessmen. In addition, China has resumed flights to Bali.
- Hong Kong non-nationals can now enter Hong Kong
- India has lifted post-arrival testing and the 7-day mandatory quarantine. Some areas have lifted all restrictions.
- Indonesia extended its VoA to 75 countries and removed quarantine and testing for fully vaccinated visitors.
- Japan Japan reopened to groups of tourists from 98 countries on 10 June and plans to lift more restrictions ahead of the fall
- Maldives is open to most countries. No mandatory quarantine.
- Laos reopened for tourism on May 9.
- Malaysia lifted all its entry Covid-19 restrictions.
- Myanmar plans to reopen for tourism in “2022.”
- Nepal Open for tourism. Quarantine for vaccinated travelers have been removed.
- Pakistan is open to all countries. No quarantine required. New – Proof of vaccination is now mandatory
- The Philippines reopened for fully vaccinated visitors on Feb. 10.
- Singapore will change entry rules as of July 1.
- South Korea has lifted all entry restrictions for international tourists.
- Sri Lanka is open to all tourists from multiple countries. Health Insurance, visa and test are required.
- Taiwan continues the travel ban on all foreign nationals.
- Thailand modified its entry restrictions as of May 1
- Vietnam reopened for tourism on Nov. 20.
Asian countries open for tourism – Latest Update June 24)
Brunei
As of May 6, 2022, the Travel Green Lane classification will be lifted and visitors will no longer be required to apply for entry or exit permits.
Everyone entering the country must be fully vaccinated and have received a booster shot. A second dose given in the last 3 months is also valid.
New entry requirements:
- All vaccinated travelers entering Brunei no longer required ART testing and self-isolation upon arrival.
- Unvaccinated travelers are still required to undergo ART upon arrival, RT-PCR test on the third day after arrival and self-isolation until the RT-PCR results return negative.
- Important: All travelers entering or exiting Brunei must be fully vaccinated with booster shot, or have received the second dose within the past 3 months (vaccinated travelers).
Cambodia Reopening
Cambodia
The Cambodian government has agreed to abolish the Covid 19 entry restrictions for inbound travelers. Travelers were previously needed to submit a health certificate demonstrating that they had tested negative for Covid-19 in the previous 72 hours, as well as a vaccination card.
The decision, which takes effect immediately, was issued in response to a request by Prime Minister Hun Sen.
“We have removed the requirement for all inbound travellers in all modes of transport: Land, waterways and air. They no longer need to produce health certificates or show proof of full vaccination upon arrival,” said Minister of Health Mam Bun Heng in an October 3 announcement.
Read our full post: This Backpacker’s Paradise In Asia Dropped All Covid Restrictions
China Reopening
Under a new policy announced by the National Health Commission, those arriving in mainland China must now spend seven days in a government-managed quarantine facility, followed by three days of isolation at home.
Travelers must still undergo regular testing and show a negative test result before being released from quarantine.
As of today, China is open to foreign nationals with work or residence visas, or those who need to travel for family reunification. Commercial airlines are covering multiple routes.
As a result of Beijing’s stringent COVID regulations, hundreds of Indian students and businesses have been forced to remain in their home country for more than two years. China stated Monday that it will provide visas to these individuals.
“Warmest congrats to #Indian #students! Your patience proves worthwhile. I can really share your excitement & happiness. Welcome back to #China!” Ji Rong, Counsellor, Department of Asian Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, China tweeted.
China has also resumed flights to Bali. Only a few days after HE Deng Xijun, China’s ambassador to ASEAN nations, met with Bali Governor Wayan Koster, China Airlines service to Denpasar has resumed. The two discussed the G20 conference that will take place in November, education, and the future of tourism.
Entry requirements:
- Complete the Online health declaration for Departure/Arrival.
- Negative PCR COVID-19 test results no older than 72 hours.
- Agree to get tested for COVID-19 test on arrival.
- Quarantine at a centralized facility for 7 days followed by 3 days of self-monitoring at home
Check the full and updated post on China reopening borders to foreigners!
Hong Kong Reopening
Travelers do not need to be Hong Kong residents to enter Hong Kong after May 1, 2022. Visitors entering Hong Kong from outside Greater China must be fully vaccinated against COVID and have a recognized vaccination record.
In addition, they must show documentation of a 7-day reservation at a specified quarantine hotel, as well as proof of a negative COVID PCR-based nucleic acid test taken within 48 hours of their flight’s arrival in Hong Kong.
India Reopening
Maharashtra has removed all Covid-related restrictions as of April 2.
“All COVID restrictions in Maharashtra will be lifted, as we bring in the new year this Gudi Padwa!” read a tweet from its handle, referring to the spring festival to mark the traditional New Year for Marathi and Konkani Hindus.
India’s Ministry of Health announced that all travelers will no longer be subject to quarantine or post-arrival testing from Feb. 14.
Travelers must still upload a negative RT-PCR test result to the Air Suvidha portal within 72 hours of their arrival in India.
Foreign arrivals will no longer be required to produce samples and wait for results at the airport and the categorization as a “high-risk” country has also been withdrawn.
Entry requirements
- All travelers must apply for a visa.
- In order to enter the country, visitors must fill out a self-declaration form 72 hours before departure and submit a negative Covid-19 RT-PCR test before departure.
Also read: India opening tourism.
Indonesia Reopening
Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Uno announced that the visa-on-arrival program at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport has been expanded to included people from 75 countries.
Indonesia also removed all quarantine requirements for international visitors from March 21.
Fully vaccinated visitors no longer need to present a negative Covid-19 test result prior to departure.
Entry requirements
- Tourist visa
- Health insurance that covers Covid-19 expenses
For more details, check out our post: Bali Reopens for Tourism.
Japan Reopening
Japan intends to remove most of the Covid-related restrictions on foreign visitors, including eliminating visa requirements and permitting individual tourism, In advance of the fall travel season.
According to FNN, which could not provide a source, these restrictions will be lifted for visitors who have received three vaccinations or have a negative Covid test.
Current Entry requirements for returning nationals
- PCR COVID-19 test results no older than 72 hours
- Agree to get tested on arrival (at no cost)
- Complete an online health declaration
- Agree to a 3-day quarantine (if it is not part of a tourist group)
Maldives Reopening
Maldives is open to all countries, and has lifted the obligation for fully vaccinated travelers to produce a negative COVID-19 test to enter the island.
Visas are issued on arrival at no cost. No quarantine is required, but if a visitor gets in close contact with a positive patient they will be required to quarantine for 14 days.
Entry requirements
- Booking at a hotel, resort, or any other government-approved lodging facility.
- Negative results of a PCR COVID-19 test taken in the 92 hours before departure.
- Agree to undergo health screenings on arrival, and additional testing if necessary.
Laos Reopening
Laos has reopened all its international borders as of May 9, 2022.
Fully vaccinated individuals will not require pre-departure or arrival testing.
Unvaccinated individuals must undergo ATK testing no more than 48 hours prior to departure.
Quarantine is not required and visas are available upon arrival.
Malaysia Reopening
Malaysia will reopen for international tourism on April 1.
Malaysia has lifted all its Covid entry restrictions for foreign visitors, including testing and quarantine requirements.
“There is still some confusion surrounding the dropping of the Travel Form on the MySejahtera app and as such tourists may still want to download the app. With all news that is breaking, tourists may want to be better safe than sorry.”
Read our full post: Malaysia Eliminates All Covid-Related Entry Restrictions For Travelers
Myanmar Reopening
The country has stated that it plans to open its doors to international visitors in early 2022.
“We are planning to reopen tourism for vaccinated tourists if plans are well-prepared for safe and convenient travel,” Zeyar Htun, deputy director of the Public Relations and Information Department at the military-run Ministry of Hotels & Tourism, confirmed to CNN Travel.
Myanmar is still struggling with the effects caused by a coup in February 2021. According to experts, it will be hard to see any airlines resuming commercial flights to the country for the time being.
Nepal Reopening
Nepal resumed commercial flights to and from Kathmandu on June 24. Multiple restrictions apply.
U.S. visitors still need to obtain a tourist visa from a Nepali diplomatic mission abroad or obtain a pre-approval recommendation from the concerned ministry for ensuring their on-arrival visa.
Entry requirements
If allowed, visitors must bring,
- A proper visa.
- Negative results of a COVID-19 test taken 72 hours before arrival.
- Booking in an approved hotel
- 5-day quarantine only for unvaccinated.
- Trekkers and Mountaineers need to bring proof of insurance that covers COVID-19 up to, at least, US $5,000.
Special entry requirements for Mount Everest climbers
Apart from the insurance that covers COVID-19 related expenses, Mount Everest climbers will need to agree to potential additional testing, mandatory face mask-wearing, and mandatory social distancing during the climbing period.
The Nepali government has stationed trained medical personnel at the Base Camp to deal with infected patients but this is increasing the total costs of the trip.
Check our post for more information about when is Nepal opening for tourism?.
Pakistan Reopening
Pakistan has ordered an 80% reduction of international flight operations and the closure of most non-essential businesses including tourist spots.
Effective August 1, all domestic air travelers must provide proof of vaccination, according to the National Command and Operation Center (NCOC).
Important! – In certain provinces only fully vaccinated people will have access to public transportation.
For further information, click here.
Entry requirements for allowed visitors
- Bring negative COVID-19 test (apart from countries on the green list)
- Proof of vaccination against Covid-19
- Fill out the website travel form or use PassTrack mobile app
Philippines Reopening
The Philippines reopened for fully vaccinated visitors from countries that are permitted visa-free travel, including the United States, on Feb. 10.
Travelers must show confirmation of vaccination as well as negative RT-PCR results from a test taken within 48 hours after leaving their home country, and they must self-monitor for symptoms for seven days after arrival in the Philippines.
“We are confident that we will be able to keep pace with our Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) neighbors who have already made similar strides to reopen to foreign tourists,” Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat said last week.
Also read: The Philippines reopening for tourism
Entry requirements
- A Negative COVID-19 test
- Proof of vaccination
Singapore Reopening
As of July 01, 2022, all long-term passport holders between the ages of 13 and 17 must be fully vaccinated.
Pre-departure testing COVID -19 will no longer be required for vaccinated visitors.
However, the rules remain unchanged for travelers aged 13 and older who are not fully vaccinated.
These travelers will be required to present a negative Covid-19 test, comply with a 7-day mandatory quarantine upon arrival, and undergo another PCR test on the 7th day of their stay.
Current Entry requirements
- Negative COVID-19 test results (or a test on arrival for Air Travel Pass visitors)
- Agree to a 14-day quarantine
- Proof of vaccination against COVID-19
- Vaccinated Travel Pass (VTP)
Also read: Singapore is open for some tourists but reimposing strict local restrictions
South Korea Reopening
South Korea has lifted testing on arrival for international travelers which means that the country has officially removed all its entry restrictions as of October 1.
However, depending on ports of departure, visa status, and nationality, some inbound passengers may undergo a mix of temperature screening and health questionnaires according to the American embassy.
Sri Lanka Reopening
Sri Lanka reopened for tourism from June 1. The country had to temporarily close its borders due to a surge in COVID-19 cases, but it is open again. Commercial airlines can operate at a limited capacity.
People who have visited or transited through India, South Africa, Vietnam, as well as South American countries including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Falkland Islands, French Guiana, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela over the last 2 weeks will be denied entry regardless of nationality or vaccination status.
Check our full post: Sri Lanka opening for tourism!
Entry requirements
- Apply for a visa or travel permit online here.
Taiwan Reopening
Taiwan’s Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) has announced that entry restrictions will be enforced until at least February 28.
In order to reopen to the world and gradually restore regular live, Taiwan’s stringent COVID-19 quarantine policy will be eased by mid-March, the government announced last week,
The CECC said it would be able to lower the quarantine period from 14 to 10 days since testing measures can detect infections within that time.
For the time being, to be granted access workers are evaluated on a new point-based system that takes into account their vaccination status, the epidemiology situation in their home country, and “the prospective employer’s epidemic prevention plan.”
Entry requirements
- Negative PCR COVID-19 test results, in English or Chinese issued within three days before boarding.
- Show proof of a reservation at an approved hotel or quarantine facility.
- Effective July 14, 2022, Taiwan nationals, ARC holders and transit passengers are exempt from providing PCR test results. More information can be found here .
- Effective June 15, 2022, upon entry, Taiwan requires all foreign nationals to undergo a 3-day quarantine period. Travelers will be allowed to transit through Taiwan. More information can be found here .
Thailand Reopening
Travelers must now either give evidence of completion of all required vaccinations or a recent negative RT-PCR test as the Thailand Pass is no longer valid. However, children between the ages of four and 17 may enter after only receiving one dose of a vaccination. Travelers who are unvaccinated must have a negative RT-PCR or ATK test within 72 hours of departure.
Vietnam Reopening
Vietnam fully reopen for tourism on March 15.
Effective March 15, 2022, the Vietnamese government has resumed pre-pandemic visa issuance policies and reopen to all international visitors.
Passengers must present either a negative PCR test conducted within 72 hours prior to travel or a rapid test taken with 24 hours.
In addition, travelers must self-monitor their health status for 10 days after arrival. However, there are no quarantine requirements for travelers without COVID -19 symptoms.
The post Asian Countries Open for Tourism: 2022 LATEST Update appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.
------------------------------------------
By: Viktor Vincej
Title: Asian Countries Open for Tourism: 2022 LATEST Update
Sourced From: www.travelinglifestyle.net/asia-reopening-borders-to-tourism-updated-list/
Published Date: Tue, 10 Oct 2023 16:05:54 +0000
