Taiwan lifts PCR testing on Mainland arrivals starting 7 February 2023

閱讀中文版本

Meanwhile, the rule for the testing period for arrivals has also been adjusted. They only need to take rapid tests if they have symptoms.

Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) has announced the easing of entry and quarantine requirements effective 7 February 2023. The saliva-based COVID-19 PCR testing requirement at airports/ports for travellers arriving on direct flights from Mainland China, and those arriving through the special travel arrangement for Kinmen and Matsu residents, has now been lifted.

In addition, travellers arriving from Mainland China who transfer through Hong Kong or Macao are no longer required to present a PCR test result from within 48 hours prior to boarding their flight at the place of departure or a rapid test result from within 24 hours of boarding.

Given the relaxation of inbound and social measures, the CECC has also adjusted the rapid test time rule specified in the Self-initiated Prevention Directions. The requirements that arrivals should take a rapid test on (i) the day of arrival, or (ii) the first day of their self-initiated prevention period, and (iii) provide a negative test result taken within two days before going out, have now been removed. Arrivals will only need to "take an at-home rapid test when they develop symptoms during their self-initiated prevention period."

In line with these adjustments, the number of free rapid tests offered to arrivals at airports/ports has been changed from four to one. The number of rapid tests offered to close contacts of confirmed cases has also been changed to one. Those who need additional rapid tests can purchase them at pharmacies or convenience stores/retailers selling rapid tests.

The CECC stressed that all inbound travellers still need to undergo the seven-day self-initiated prevention period, aligned to relevant measures, and only need to take a rapid test if they develop symptoms.

Images / Shutterstock