CDC Announces Travelers From China Must Show Negative COVID-19 Result

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently announced that effective 12:01 AM ET on January 5, 2023, travelers entering the United States from flights originating in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Special Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macau will be required to present a negative COVID-19 test or proof of COVID-19 recovery. The requirement also applies to passengers traveling to the United States transiting through Incheon International Airport, Toronto Pearson International Airport, and Vancouver International Airport if they have been in the PRC in the last ten days no more than two days before their departure to the United States.

All air passengers two years of age and older will be required to show a negative COVID-19 test result to the airline from a test administered no more than two days prior to departure from the PRC, Hong Kong, or Macau. The requirement applies to all air passengers regardless of nationality or vaccination status. Passengers who tested positive more than 10 days prior to departure can provide proof of recovery in lieu of a negative test result.

Ogletree Deakins’ Immigration Practice Group will continue to monitor developments with respect to these and other policy changes and will post updates on the Immigration blog as additional information becomes available. Important information for employers is also available via the firm’s webinar and podcast programs.