Distant China Requires PCR and Serology Tests Upon Entry

Issuance of Green Health Card After Submission of Voice Confirmation... Entry Restrictions Strengthened
PCR and Serology, 2-Week Facility Quarantine and Additional PCR Tests

[Asia Economy Beijing=Special Correspondent Jo Young-shin] Starting next month, travelers entering China will be required to submit both a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test and a serology test certificate.

Chinese health authorities have been requiring PCR and serology tests from early November for countries with confirmed COVID-19 cases that have regular flights to China.

According to the Chinese Embassy in Korea on the 26th, due to the global resurgence of COVID-19, China will strengthen entry regulations for passengers of Chinese-bound flights from Korea, regardless of nationality, starting from December 1 to prevent overseas re-importation of the virus.

Accordingly, passengers must undergo a COVID-19 PCR test and a serology antibody test within two days before boarding and submit negative test certificates to the Chinese Embassy or Consulate General in Korea. Upon submission of the negative certificates, the Chinese Embassy (Consulate General) will issue a green health card (in QR code format).

Since November 11, China has mandated that all passengers on flights from Korea to China, regardless of nationality, submit two negative PCR test certificates.

However, as COVID-19 cases have surged again worldwide, including in Korea, China has determined that PCR testing alone does not guarantee safety and appears to have added the requirement for serology antibody testing.

A source in Beijing explained, "Starting early November, Chinese health authorities have been requiring serology tests for countries with many confirmed COVID-19 cases such as the United States and European countries."

With the Chinese government tightening entry regulations for travelers from Korea to China, it will become more difficult to enter China, as travelers will need to undergo PCR and serology antibody tests, followed by a two-week facility quarantine and additional PCR testing after arrival in China.