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Asian Countries Open for Tourism: 2022 LATEST Update

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

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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.

• 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.

• 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. 

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

• 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 !

• 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.”

• 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.

• Asia Reopening – Which countries are open for tourism and travel now?

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Asian countries has taken the cautious approach to inbound travel and has had some of the strictest border restrictions and closures. At the moment, the nations of the region are in the beginning stages of reopening their borders for tourism, with every country introducing its own regulations.

The “unlocking” statuses vary widely. Travelers entering Asian countries may be required to do everything from going into quarantine, submitting negative COVID-19 test results, presenting proof of health insurance, and proof of vaccination (known a vaccine passports).

There is an understandable uncertainty with how you should travel to the Asian region if you are planning to. This is why we present you the list of 19 Asian countries, along with details on the current travel situation. As each country applies precisely defined regulations, you should always check the official websites listed in the article below for the latest government announcements.

• When will Asia reopen for tourism?
• Asian countries open for tourism without quarantine
• Philippines
• South Korea
• United Arab Emirates, UAE
• New Zealand
• New Caledonia
• Pacific Islands
• Papua New Guinea

Compared to Western countries, Asia experiences significant delays when it comes to COVID-19 prevention and vaccination programs. These will have a direct impact on the opening dates, which for the majority of Asian countries will only come in 2022.

The dates for the re-opening of the borders below are only approximate and will most likely change. Keep following us on our social media (@sonasiaholiday) for the latest information.

Asia reopening dates

Mandatory quarantines are perhaps the least desirable element of going abroad in the post-pandemic world. Fortunately, with the implementation of the vaccine passport, many countries are easing their quarantine requirements and making allowances to accommodate international arrivals.

As of March 2022 these countries are open to visitors without compulsory quarantine: Cambodia , Thailand , Vietnam ,  Laos , Fiji ,  French Polynesia ,  India ,  The Maldives , Nepal , Philippines , Singapore , Sri Lanka , and The United Arab Emirates .

While these countries do provide a quarantine-free entry, in most cases waiving the quarantine period is contingent on the testing and/or vaccination status of the visitor (see the table below). Please note that mandatory quarantine will still be imposed on those who test positive during the health screenings conducted at the airport.

Here’s the list of Asian countries open to international tourists without quarantines:

Quarantine-free countries (2022)

Check out the below infographic for your reference of the reopening status of the 4 destinations that we offer.

Country-by-country reopening plan.

Now, we will take a closer look into the reopening plan of each country with some main points such as Overview, entry restrictions, visa policy, quarantine rules, or the expected opening date.

Cambodia is welcoming fully vaccinated travelers to visit without quarantine. On March 17, the country stopped requiring overseas travelers to test before their trip or on arrival. Unvaccinated travelers must quarantine for 14 days. Even though testing is no longer mandatory, Cambodia’s ministry of health encourages travelers to take a rapid test out of precaution.

Cambodia travel status

The visa on arrival system is re-enabled since March 17th, 2022. It is now very easy to have your Cambodia visa when arriving at the international airports or borders of the Kingdom of wonders.

Here is more detail about Cambodia visa

Cambodia travel requirements

All vaccinated travelers need to demonstrate their vaccination status on arrival. Additionally, those who are eligible to enter Cambodia must:

• present proof of health insurance that covers COVID-19 treatment
• (unvaccinated travelers only) deposit $2000 in cash on arrival to cover the cost of quarantine

Unvaccinated travelers will be subject to a COVID-19 RT-PCR test on arrival.

Quarantine rules

Fully vaccinated visitors are not required to quarantine on arrival.  

Unvaccinated visitors must undergo 14 days quarantine at a government-designated hotel or Alternative State Quarantine hotel.

Here is more detail about Cambodia reopening tourism

Thailand is fully open for travel without quarantine for vaccinated guests. Furthermore, the country has just reinstated the popular Test & Go scheme with a few notable changes:

• It now applies to ALL fully vaccinated travelers (previously only ‘COVID-safe’ ones)
• From April 1st, there is no need to have your Covid test before boarding your flight to Thailand.
• A second PCR test will be required on day 5. For both the PCR test upon arrival and on day 5, guests will need to remain in their hotel while waiting for results to come back.
• The country plans to consider Covid-19 as endemic from July 1st and all the entry restrictions will be lifted at that time.

Afterwards, they are free to explore Thailand unimpeded.

Thailand travel status

Thailand entry regulations.

All arriving visitors are required to undergo two COVID PCR tests – one upon entry and another on the fifth day (reduced to a self-administered Antigen Rapid Test from 7 March 2022).

As part of the Test & Go quarantine-free scheme, travelers must also book day 1 and day 5 stays at a Safety & Health Administration ( SHA ) approved hotel (the package includes an RT-PCR test).

Travel insurance that covers at least USD$20,000 in COVID-19 related medical/treatment expenses and hospitalization costs is also required.

Tourist visas

Two types of new visas have been introduced:

• Long-stay Special Tourist Visa (STV). Allows staying for up to 90 days, which can be extended twice, each time for another 90 days (9 months of total stay length). The issuance of visa costs 2,000 THB (~66 USD / ~83 AUD), and the same fee applies for every extension.
• Regular 60-day Tourist Visa (TR). Allows staying for up to 60 days. Cost: 1,900 THB (~63 USD / ~80 AUD).

Both visas require a Certificate of Entry (COE), which can be granted after applying online on the official Thai Government website .

The following entry requirements must be met to apply for COE:

• Both visa and COE must be approved by the Thai embassy/consulate in the traveler’s home country
• A copy of a recent bank statement with a minimum balance of $700 per person and $1,500 per family.
• Health insurance that covers COVID-19, and minimum medical coverage of $20,000 USD.

Furthermore, for an STV visa, the visitor must present proof of payment for 90 days of accommodation in Thailand.

Here is more detail about Thailand visa

Thailand quarantine details

Vaccinated travelers arriving in Thailand are free from the compulsory quarantine.

Here is more detail about Thailand reopening tourism

Laos is officially open for tourism. Currently in Phase 1 of a 3-phase ‘Lao Travel Green Zone Plan’, fully vaccinated travelers from 31 countries may now enter Vientiane and, after a 48h quarantine, explore ‘Green Zones’ of Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng before being able to explore ‘Green Trails’ including Oudomxay, Xataboury, Xieng Khouang, Khammouane and Champasak.

Laos travel status

On March 18, 2020, all tourist visas were suspended until further notice. However, authorities may grant entry permission for foreigners in some cases – after submitting an application to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Starting January 2022 under the Green Tourism Plan, foreign visitors can apply for a visa to Laos when booking a tour with a local travel agency. Contact us for more detail.

Here is more detail about Laos visa

Laos entry restrictions

All arriving visitors must present a medical certificate with a negative COVID-19 test result issued no more than 72 hours before departure, and complete a health declaration form.

To enter any tourist site located in the green zone, visitors must show a Covid vaccination certificate.

Laos quarantine rules

Upon arrival in Laos, a PCR test must be taken by all passengers. A visitor can travel to the “green tourism zone” if the test result is negative. Other visitors must undergo a 14-days mandatory quarantine at designated locations, with all expenses covered by the visitor.

Laos reopening date

Covid-19 is still a threat in Laos, but as the vaccination program has accelerated recently, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism introduced the “Lao Travel Green Zone” program to revive tourism from January 2022. Vientiane, Vangvieng, and Luang Prabang are designated as green zones which fully vaccinated foreign travelers are permitted to visit.

Here is more detail about Laos reopening tourism

As of March 15, Vietnam is fully open for travel, ending the vaccine passport program it put in place last November. Travelers 2 and older must provide proof of a negative PRC test taken within 72 hours before boarding their flight, as well as purchase a coronavirus-specific travel insurance policy covering at least $10,000. They’re also required to fill out a health declaration form and download the PC-Covid Viet Nam app to monitor their health for the first 10 days of their trip.

Vietnam travel status

Note: Travelers can either have the Covid test before boarding the flight to Vietnam or upon arrival.

Vietnam entry requirements

All foreign tourists entering Vietnam are required to:

• Present Vietnam’s e-visa (for countries not included in visa exemption program) – available online.
• Present proof of full vaccination against COVID-19, with the last dose taken not more than 1 year prior to the date of entry.
• Present a negative result from a PCR/LAMP test administered within 72 hours, or Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) within 24 hour before boarding. If not, the test upon arrival will be required.
• Have medical or travel insurance that covers COVID-19 treatment, with a minimum liability of $10,000.

Quarantine measures

As long as you are fully vaccinated and have NEGATIVE Covid test before arrival, there is no more compulsory quarantine upon arrival in the country.

Here is more detail about Vietnam reopening tourism

Myanmar is closed for international tourism. Based on recent political events, the health risks from the COVID-19 pandemic, and the significant disruptions to Myanmar’s transportation network the current travel advice from most governments is “do not travel to Myanmar“.

Currently, the junta eyes reopening the country to foreigners, while Myanmar’s shadow government warns tourists to stay away: “Our citizens are being slaughtered, raped, jailed, and their homes and belongings are being confiscated or destroyed. This isn’t the time to go sightseeing.”

Myanmar travel status

On 1 February 2021, a violent political coup took place in Myanmar with deadly clashes across the country. The country’s military declared a state of emergency and assumed control. Following the coup, the security situation in the country has worsened, and there are active conflicts between armed groups. A curfew is in place and daily internet outages, disruptions to basic services, communications and public health occur across the country. Foreign visitors are at risk of being arbitrarily detained or arrested.

All arriving passengers must comply with Myanmar’s COVID-19 quarantine requirements. There is a mandatory 7 days quarantine in a government facility followed by a further 7 days of self-isolation at home.

When Myanmar will reopen for tourism?

Junta plans to reopen its land border crossings with Thailand and China by December 2021, and to resume international air travel in early 2022.

Here is more detail about Myanmar reopening tourism

China’s borders remain closed for international tourism. Only foreign nationals with valid residence permits or visiting China for emergency reasons are allowed to enter.

There is also a Fast Lane agreement with Singapore and South Korea, allowing travel between countries for business travelers.

China remains committed to the zero-covid strategy – international travel remains largely barred, and the country may stay isolated with closed borders well into 2023. On the other hand, domestic travel is booming as people are allowed to travel within the country and most domestic flights have resumed their operations.

China travel status

China entry regulations.

All travelers must apply for an official permit or a visa with the Chinese consulate in their native country. They also must prove to have a compelling reason for traveling (for example humanitarian needs). For a visa, a physical application needs to be sent by mail to the consulate. The total fee is around $150 ( A$205) and must be paid by money order or check.

A PCR test took 48 hours before boarding is required. The test report along with and letter of commitment on COVID-19 vaccination should be submitted on the China Health Declaration Certificate website.

Travelers entering Mainland China must undergo mandatory COVID-19 testing on arrival and a 21-days quarantine at their own cost. To be released from the quarantine travelers must agree to a variety of invasive COVID-19 tests.

When China will open its borders for tourism?

The Chinese government announced that the realistic date to lift border restrictions would be in the second half of 2022. However, the country will only reopen after meeting a number of requirements.

Hong Kong is currently closed to international tourism – Non-Hong Kong residents from overseas will be denied entry in most cases. The exception has been made for tourists coming from Macau, Taiwan, and Mainland China – they are permitted to enter Hong Kong provided they do not have a recent travel history elsewhere in the past 14 days.

Hong Kong travel status

Hong Kong has some of the world’s strictest quarantine policies. All arriving passengers are required to undergo a medical test for COVID-19 prior to clearing immigration and baggage collection. There is a compulsory 7-days (visitors from low-risk countries) 14-days (medium-risk countries) or 21-days (high-risk countries) quarantine for the unvaccinated visitors. Vaccinated visitors may undergo a shorter quarantine (conditions apply).

Please note that violating the quarantine requirements is considered a criminal offense in Hong Kong, and offenders can face a heavy fine or/and imprisonment.

When will Hong Kong open its borders to tourists?

Though the authorities have announced that Hong Kong will open its borders to international travelers in mid-2022, the exact date has not been announced yet.

Recently Hong Kong put even more countries on its high-risk list that require three weeks of hotel quarantine. It strongly follows the “Zero Covid” policy and will not reopen its border until Covid is kept at bay. At the same time, it is struggling to inoculate its population of about 7.4 million people.

India’s borders are now open for international tourists. Vaccinated foreigners from more than 100 countries are allowed to enter India quarantine-free from November 15, 2021. The Indian Bureau of Immigration website outlines categories of foreign nationals who are currently eligible to travel to India.

India travel status

Fully vaccinated travelers are not required to undergo a quarantine.

All arrivals are screened. Anyone showing symptoms will be taken to a medical facility for a 14 day quarantine. An exemption from institutional quarantine may be considered if a negative RT-PCR test result has been conducted within 96 hours prior to departure.

When did India reopen for tourists?

India has begun to reopen its borders for international tourism in November 2021.

Indonesia is gradually reopening for international tourism. The island of Bali is open to foreign tourists, however, even vaccinated visitors must undergo 3 or 5 days of quarantine in a designated hotel (there’s an exception for visitors from 23 countries who are no longer required to quarantine).

Currently visitors can enter through the airports at Soekarno-Hatta (Jakarta), Ngurah Rai (Bali), Hang Nadim (Batam), and Haji Fisabilillah (Tanjung Pinang).

Indonesia travel status

Entry restrictions.

Starting July 6, 2021, all exempted foreign travelers entering Indonesia have to be fully vaccinated. The proof of vaccination (a vaccination record card in physical or digital form) must be presented prior to departure to Indonesia and on arrival. Also, all travelers are required to have a negative COVID-19 PCR test obtained within 72 hours of their departure and a completed electronic Indonesia Health Alert Certificate (e-HAC).

Everyone landing in Indonesia must also undergo a PCR retest at the airport.

Holders of the Indonesia Temporary Residence Card (KITAS) and Indonesia Permanent Residence Card (KITAP) are allowed to enter the country.

Free visa-on-arrival and the visa exemption system have been suspended until the pandemic is declared ended by the authorities. At the moment visitors can use long-term e-visas instead. It’s a gateway that the government made available in October 2020 by introducing a new e-visa system.

Any foreign nationals can apply for a single-entry visa B211A that allows staying in the country for 2 months and can be extended 4 times with 30-days extensions. It can be used by anyone who wishes to stay in Indonesia for tourism or social purposes. The best way to obtain a single-entry visa is to use an agent in Indonesia (cost around 6mln IDR or 410 USD / 540 AUD). For more information read the official guide (PDF, Bahasa Indonesia) or visit e-visa section of the Indonesian immigration website.

All foreign visitors to Indonesia and Bali (including those who are fully vaccinated) are required to undergo mandatory quarantine for 5 days at a hotel approved by the Indonesian government.

You can search for quarantine hotels in Jakarta or check the list of quarantine hotels in Bali. The quarantine is free of charge for Indonesian citizens but comes with a significant cost for foreign visitors. A PCR test will be administered on the fourth day – a negative result is required for a release from quarantine.

Japan is not yet opened to international tourism. All foreign nationals (both tourists and business travelers) are barred from entering the country. At the moment, only Japanese citizens and residents, as well as people in exceptional circumstances, are allowed to enter Japan.

Japan travel status

Under directions from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, visa restrictions have been introduced, including cancellation of already-issued visas and suspension of visa-free entry.

Vaccine passports

The Japanese government has created its own vaccine certification system and started issuing “vaccine passports” to its vaccinated citizens and residents.

“Japan will ask other countries to ease entry requirements for holders of its COVID-19 vaccination certificate while exploring reciprocal moves for incoming travelers as part of a push to revive international travel.” (Nikkei Asia). Outside Japan, its vaccine passports are currently honored by 23 other countries.

All passengers entering Japan are required to submit proof of a negative test result for COVID-19. There is a 14-days quarantine at a designated facility after arrival.

Japan reopening date

The most likely date for the reopening of Japan’s borders to general tourism is early 2022.  It is expected that lifting Japan’s travel ban will be a phased process – starting with students, business travelers, and then foreign tourists. If you plan to visit Japan, we recommend that you book your flights and accommodation for dates in the spring of 2022 at the earliest.

Malaysia will reopen its borders for fully vaccinated international tourists on April 1. Visitors must provide a negative PCR test result taken within 48 hours of their trip, and take a rapid test within 24 hours of arrival in Malaysia.

Malaysia travel status

Malaysia entry requirements.

All visitors arriving in Malaysia are required to:

• present a negative of a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of departure (digital or hardcopy in English or Bahasa Malaysia is accepted),
• undergo a COVID-19 screening test upon arrival (free for Malaysian citizens but borne by the non-Malaysian visitor),
• show the proof of payment (QR code) for the mandatory quarantine,
• present a return travel ticket.

Malaysia quarantine rules

Quarantine length varies according to the vaccination status:

• Fully vaccinated passengers: No
• Partially vaccinated or unvaccinated passengers: 10 days

Quarantine should be undergone in a designated facility (or in the hospital if symptomatic). The cost is borne by passengers and includes COVID-19 screening test, transport, accommodation, meals, etc. Visitors are required to make payment in advance through the MySafeTravel website (where preferred quarantine accommodation and bespoke amenities can be chosen) or the MyQR phone app. A unique QR code will be designated upon completion of payment (to be used for verification on arrival).

The Maldives is open for international tourism. The Maldives took a different approach than most APAC countries, pursuing one of the most liberal opening policies in the world. To protect tourism country reopened its borders to all travelers in June 2020.

The Maldives are presenting themselves as a tourist destination offering a “normal” vacation thanks to the fact that most hotels are located on isolated islands, and that the vast majority of leisure-seekers stay in-resort rather than venture out. In fact, when visiting the Maldives you should be prepared to stay in one place as movement between resorts and islands is subject to authorization.

Maldives travel status

There is no quarantining mandated upon arrival in the Maldives. However, travelers will have to follow some procedures to enter the country:

• Present a PCR test with a negative result (taken a maximum of 96 hours before departure)
• Present a confirmed booking at a registered tourist facility
• Fill in an HDF (Traveller Health Declaration form).
• Wear face masks in all indoor public spaces

A free 30-day tourist visa is issued upon arrival.

Upon arrival into the Maldives, travelers presenting symptoms of COVID-19 will be subject to PCR test at their cost and in case of positive result transported to quarantine facilities to isolate for 14 days. Tourists who do not show COVID-19 symptoms are not required to quarantine on arrival.

Vaccinated foreigners are allowed in Nepal without a quarantine requirement as long as they pass a rapid antigen test upon arrival. Travelers must provide proof of vaccination, a negative PCR test taken three days before arrival, proof of a hotel reservation, and any trekking or mountaineering permits, among other requirements.

Nepal travel status

Issuance of tourist entry visas has resumed. Foreign tourists should apply for a visa at the Nepali embassies and diplomatic missions in their respective countries. You may contact the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation for current information.

All tourists entering Nepal must present the following documents:

• Nepalese visa, or recommendation letter from the Nepal Tourism Board.
• Negative COVID-19 test result (taken at most 72 hours before departure), or document showing complete vaccination against COVID-19.
• Proof of travel insurance that covers (among others) health, immediate crisis, or rescue for the duration of the trip.
• Barcode generated from the International Travel Arrival Form.

There is no mandatory quarantine upon arrival for fully vaccinated travelers who are entering by air or land. Unvaccinated visitors have to quarantine for 10 days in a designated hotel.

Rules for vaccinated travelers

Covid vaccination passports or certificates are not mandatory to enter Nepal. However, Covid vaccine certificate holders don’t need to present negative PCR test results on arrival. Also, the quarantine is waived for fully vaccinated visitors.

Nepal reopening date

Nepal began to reopen its borders to foreign tourists in the summer of 2021. On June 24 international flights with Kuala Lumpur, Doha, Istanbul, Dammam, and Kuwait have been resumed, and on July 1 domestic flights restarted operations with 50% capacity.

The Philippines’ borders have been reopened to international tourism on February 10, 2022. Fully vaccinated foreign tourists are now allowed to enter the Philippines, quarantine-free. Nationals from 157 countries (including Australia, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom) can enjoy visa-free short visits for up to 21 days.

Unvaccinated foreigners are banned from entering the Philippines.

The Department of Tourism provides an official Facebook page where travelers can ask questions and clarify any concerns.

Philippines travel status

Philippines travel requirements.

The Philippines moved to scrap its “traffic light” system (which ranked countries based on their handling of Covid-19) and shift the focus onto individual travelers. All foreign visitors arriving in the Philippines must now present:

Proof of vaccination

• PCR test for Covid-19 with a negative result (taken no more than 48 hours before departure).
• Completed the Electronic Case Information Form (e-CIF).
• Children below 18 years of age are exempted from the requirement of full vaccination.

All visitors are required to self-monitor for any signs of Covid for 7 days after arrival and must report to their local government office if they experience any symptoms.

Philippines quarantine regulations

Foreign travelers are no longer be required to quarantine upon arrival if they have been fully vaccinated and tested negative prior to arrival.

While unvaccinated foreign travelers remain banned, unvaccinated, partially vaccinated and unverified Filipino passengers must undergo facility-based 5-days quarantine until the release of the negative test results.

Singapore is gradually opening its borders for international tourism. Visitors entering the city-state via Vaccinated Travel Lanes ( VTL ) do not need to undergo a mandatory quarantine, and instead of taking a PCR test upon arrival, they can choose a supervised self-swab test.

Singapore plans to substantially ease travel restrictions once the Omicron wave of infections peaks, raising quotas on VTLs – this will pave the way for quarantine-free travel for fully vaccinated travelers.

Singapore travel status

Vaccinated travel lane (vtl).

Starting September 2021 vaccinated travelers from selected countries are able to use Vaccinated Travel Lane to enter Singapore for any purpose (including tourism) and without having to quarantine. Among eligible countries are Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, Canada, Denmark1, Fiji, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Malaysia, Maldives, Netherlands, Philippines, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, UK, UAE, and the US.

Eligible visitors will need to show proof of a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours of the departure and undergo a supervised self-administered Antigen Rapid Test (ART) at a Quick Test Centre (QTC) on arrival. Fully vaccinated recovered travelers may qualify for exemption from COVID-19 tests.

All visitors requesting VTL are required to purchase travel insurance with a minimum coverage of S$30,000 (~$22,500, ~A$29,100), and travel to Singapore on a direct flight without transit.

There is no mandatory quarantine for fully vaccinated travelers eligible for Vaccinated Travel Lane.

Other travelers arriving in Singapore must undergo a COVID-19 PCR test at the Changi airport (cost of S$125 / ~$93 / ~ A$173) or a supervised self-administered Antigen Rapid Test (ART, cost S$15). They must remain in isolation at the previously declared accommodation until they are notified that their test result is negative.

Travelers should be aware that Singapore takes its rules very seriously. Quarantine violations carry a penalty of a fine of up to S$10,000 (~$7,500,~A$9,700) and/or up to six months in jail.

Singapore reopening date

Singapore is gradually reopening tourism from September 2021. It has 95% of its population fully vaccinated – placing the nation in a solid position to start reopening borders and establishing travel corridors with countries that have infections under control. The first step is to waive quarantine for vaccinated travelers from selected countries entering Singapore through Vaccinated Travel Lane. In the early stages of reopening, visitors have to take a point-to-point itinerary – transits in Covid hotspots is not be allowed.

South Korea is partially open to international tourism. As most foreign visitors are denied entry into the country, there are some exceptions. Foreign nationals on long-term visas and nationals of countries covered by the new K-ETA policy are allowed to enter South Korea subject to self-quarantine.

South Korea travel status

South korea visa-free entry (k-eta).

In May 2021, South Korea launched a pilot project for Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for visa-free entry for foreign nationals. It will be followed by full implementation from September 2021.

Currently, only citizens of the 21 visa-exempt countries will be able to apply for an ETA to South Korea: US, UK, Mexico, Nicaragua, Dominican Federation, Barbados, Venezuela, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint Kitts-Nevis, Malta, Ireland, Guyana, Monaco, Vatican City, San Marino, Andorra, Albania, Slovenia, Guam, New Caledonia, and Palau.

Travelers are required to apply for the ETA through the government K-ETA online portal at least 24 hours before boarding their flight. Once approved, the ETA will be valid for 2 years. It will permit multiple short stays in South Korea for purposes of tourism, family visits, or conducting business activities.

All foreign nationals arriving in South Korea by air are required to provide a printed negative COVID-19 test taken at most 72 hours before departure from the first embarkation point. Also, health screening and health questionnaire are mandatory for visitors from all countries.

14-day quarantine rules apply to all international passengers entering Korea. Foreign travelers must present a Self-Isolation Exemption Certificate issued by the Embassy of Korea or, alternatively, must agree to quarantine at a government facility at a cost of KRW1,400,000 (A$ 1750 / $1150).

All visitors must install the self-quarantine safety protection mobile app.

No quarantine for vaccinated travelers

Starting 2 July 2021, visitors who have been vaccinated overseas against COVID-19 are exempted from the mandatory 14 days quarantine upon arrival in South Korea. To be qualified for the exemption, travelers have to be fully vaccinated at least two weeks before entering the country. They still need to submit a negative COVID-19 PCR test result though.

When will South Korea open its borders?

With the introduction of the new K-ETA policy, South Korea opens its borders to 21 countries in September 2021.

As the worldwide situation regarding COVID-19 eases, visitors from around 90 other countries for which visa-free entry is currently suspended, will become eligible for the K-ETA. The South Korean government has announced plans to include the European Union countries in the K-ETA program from 2022.

Sri Lanka is open to international tourism. The government decided to reopen the country on 21 January 2021, after 10 months of strict pandemic closure. Fully vaccinated travelers can enter Sri Lanka without an on-arrival PCR test or a quarantine.

Sri Lanka travel status

Travel requirements.

To enter Sri Lanka all foreign passengers are required to:

• Apply online for a tourist visa
• Present COVID 19 PCR test with a negative result (taken within 72 hours before the departure) or Rapid Antigen Test taken (48 hours before)
• Purchase health insurance from People’s Insurance with at least one month cover of $50,000
• Complete Health Declaration Form ( online )
• Upload the relevant documents (vaccination record, COVID 19 test result, etc.) and obtain a QR code

Additionally, visitors who are not fully vaccinated:

• Must reserve a certified quarantine hotel
• Must undergo COVID-19 PCR test on arrival

There is no on-arrival PCR test for vaccinated travelers. They are also allowed to make their own arrangements for accommodation, airport transfers, and local transportation.

Sri Lanka quarantine rules

Fully vaccinated travelers are allowed to enter the country without undergoing quarantine.

Travelers who haven’t been fully vaccinated will have to go first through ‘the protection’ of the Tourism Bio Bubble – stay at a quarantine hotel for a duration of 7 days. It is not a strict quarantine as guests are allowed to leave their rooms and use hotel facilities like pools, gyms, and restaurants. An exit PCR/Rapid Antigen test will be performed on day 7.

Taiwanese borders remain closed to tourism. Beginning January 2022 entry restrictions for foreign nationals have been tightened. Currently, foreign nationals without a residency permit are not allowed to enter Taiwan unless they obtain special permission (mainly for emergency or humanitarian reasons) and a visa beforehand. Tourism is not accepted as a purpose of visit.

Taiwan travel status

All passengers arriving or transiting in Taiwan are required to present a certificate of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 2 days of boarding their flight to Taiwan. There will be another test upon arrival at the airport.

Recently the quarantine measures have been tightened for all passengers eligible to enter Taiwan. There are multiple COVID-19 tests required. Travelers who visited a high-risk country in the last 14 days must quarantine in government facilities, paid for by Taiwan. Those who travel from other countries will be directed to a quarantine hotel or a government facility at their own expense.

Passengers who have been fully vaccinated must undergo 7-day mandatory quarantine at either a quarantine hotel or a designated quarantine facility, followed by a 7-day quarantine at their residential property.

When will Taiwan reopen to tourism?

The exact date when Taiwan will allow tourists to visit the country remains unknown. According to travel industry experts, the quick spread of the Covid Delta variant, shortage of vaccines, and low numbers of vaccinated citizens will be the reasons for Taiwan to be among the last destinations in Asia to welcome foreign travelers again.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is open to fully vaccinated visitors from all countries. Tourist visa issuance resumed on August 30, 2021 (some additional rules apply).

UAE travel status

Uae entry restrictions.

Passengers arriving on tourist visas must register their vaccination status on the government’s health app .

Passengers arriving from the high-risk countries must present a printed negative result of a PCR test issued within 48 hours and are required to undergo another testing at the airport. Passengers traveling from other countries must present a negative result of a PCR test done less than 72 hours before departure.

A valid health insurance cover is required.

The transit passengers are not required to present the PCR test certificate unless it is required at their final destination.

Quarantine rules in UAE

Vaccinated passengers and unvaccinated passengers arriving from ‘green’ countries do not have to quarantine themselves.

Passengers who are required to undergo a PCR test at the airport will have to undergo a 14-day quarantine if the result is positive. Unvaccinated travelers arriving from ‘red’ countries will be quarantined for 10 days.

Is UAE open to tourism?

The United Arab Emirates reopened to international tourism in October 2021. The compulsory quarantine has been lifted for vaccinated travelers.

Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other UAE destinations are now safe to travel to. When visiting the country, you are obliged to follow standard health guidelines though – to ensure your own safety and that of others.

Extra: Reopening plan of other countries in Asia Pacific region

Here are the reopening plans of some other countries in Asia Pacific region

Australia is open to vaccinated international travelers from February 21, 2022. You must be double vaccinated to come to Australia unless you qualify for a medical exemption. Quarantine rules are determined on a state level.

For most of the pandemic, the country pursued a “zero COVID” policy, but it was abandoned after rolling out vaccines. Currently, more than 95% of Australia’s population received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Australian Travel Status

Australia entry restrictions

All travelers need to be fully vaccinated and are obliged to present proof of a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours of departure. If you arrive by plane you should complete an Australia Travel Declaration ( ATD ) available online.

Everyone traveling to Australia must wear a mask for the duration of their flight, and in all Australian airports.

Quarantine rules are determined on a state level. Reduced quarantine may apply depending on the state or territory the visitor is traveling to. Most states require travelers to take a COVID-19 PCR test within 24 hours of arriving in Australia.

New Zealand is not yet open to international tourism. At the moment only New Zealand, Australia, and some Pacific islands (Samoa, Niue, Cook Islands, Tokelau, Tonga, Vanuatu) citizens are allowed to enter the country without quarantine. However, you may still be able to enter the country if you have a critical purpose to travel.

New Zealand has started easing some of its tough pandemic border restrictions in February 2022 but the country will not fully reopen until October 2022 according to this 5-step plan for a phased reopening.

New Zealand travel status

Mandatory standard operating procedures have been put in place where 14-day quarantine and a negative PCR test are compulsory upon arrival. Passengers are legally required to obtain a Managed Isolation Allocation system voucher confirming their place in a managed isolation facility before boarding a flight.

New Zealand opening date

New Zealand plans to fully open its borders in October 2022. The opening will take place in phases , starting February 2022. Visitors from visa-waiver countries will be permitted to enter starting July 2022.

Fiji is open to fully vaccinated tourists from December 1, 2021. There is no quarantine for those arriving from Travel Partner countries, but all visitors must follow guidelines laid out by the country’s CareFiji plan.

All transportation, businesses, and tourist venues operate at full capacity. However, mask-wearing is still being enforced.

Fiji travel status

All vaccinated visitors are required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test in order to enter the country and must take an additional PCR test 48 hours after arriving. Travelers can be accompanied by their unvaccinated children.

There is also a minimum 3-night accommodation booking requirement (at a Care Fiji Commitment certified property) and a mandatory PCR test 48 hours after arriving.

Recognized vaccines

Currently, Fiji recognizes Astra-Zeneca, Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson.

Foreign visitors arriving from Travel Partner countries can enjoy Fiji quarantine-free. Those who travel from non-Travel Partner countries are required to stay at a Managed Hotel Quarantine Facility for 10 days.

Fiji reopening date

Fiji reopened its borders to international tourism on December 1, 2021.

With an improved COVID situation and a good vaccination rate, the Government of New Caledonia has decided to reopen its borders to countries with a similar vaccination policy since 1st December 2021.

Full vaccination certificate (except for children under 18), PCR-tests and travel certificate are required to enter the country.

Seven days quarantine at home or at the hotel upon arrival is mandatory.

Entry Restrictions

Overseas travellers can come to New Caledonia. 

Entry Requirements

All travelers need to:

• Submit a request to the Government of New Caledonia to obtain a travel certificate 
• Meet the health requirement as listed below.

Vaccination is mandatory for adults (18 and over) entering the territory. You will need to provide evidence of full vaccination with one of the vaccines authorised by the European Commission.

For children under 12 years of age or travellers not vaccinated due to medical contraindications, please read Government of New Caledonia’s information (https://gouv.nc/niveau-alerte/infos-arrivees-se-rendre-en-nouvelle-caledonie) online.

• All passengers have to fill a form and present a negative PCR test before boarding and after 7-day isolation to enjoy New Caledonia, more details here.
• Non-vaccinated adults (without medical contraindications) are not allowed to enter New Caledonia.
• Specific health measures apply to passengers exposed to new variants not present in New Caledonia.

Following the detection of two probable cases of the Omicron variant on 22 December 2021, health controls at borders have been reinforced.

Upon arrival, travellers coming from a country at risk or symptomatic must perform an RT-PCR test within 24 hours and then at the end of the isolation period. Travellers coming from a country not considered to be at risk must undergo an antigenic test within 48 hours and then at the end of the isolation period.

All travellers entering the territory must complete a 7-day quarantine at home or at the hotel. They will also be subject to mandatory Covid-19 tests upon arrival in New Caledonia and after the isolation period. An antigenic test must be performed at the end of the isolation period. 

Allowed vaccines in New Caledonia

Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca

Most Pacific Islands are closed for general tourism, with some exceptions. New Zealand and Australia are reportedly in talks about the possible expansion of their existing Trans-Tasman travel bubble to include some parts of the Pacific Islands. At the moment New Caledonia, Tahiti, Fiji, and Tonga are considered.

Here’s the travel situation in some popular Pacific Islands:

French Polynesia

On May 1 French Polynesia has reopened its borders to travelers who have been in the US for at least 30 days prior to departure. Vaccinated travelers are required to include an official certificate of vaccination. All travelers are required to supply negative PCR test results. Non-vaccinated travelers will be required to quarantine for 10 days (regardless of test results), while vaccinated visitors will be allowed to bypass it.

Cook Islands

This South Pacific nation made up of 15 islands scattered over a vast area of the Pacific Ocean has reported 0 (zero) COVID-19 cases. Starting 17 May, New Zealanders can enjoy the stunning beaches of the Cook Islands by using a new travel bubble that allows quarantine-free visits. Passenger arrivals from other countries to the Cook Islands are still suspended.

The island is opened for tourist since December 1st, 2021. Scroll up for more detail.

The island of Niue is closed to international tourism. Only repatriating Niue residents and essential services people are permitted entry. All arriving passengers must undergo a 14-days quarantine at government-appointed accommodation. Niue is discussing a two-way travel bubble with New Zealand. At the moment it only works one way: you can travel from Niue to New Zealand quarantine-free.

Still largely untouched by mass tourism, Samoa remains free of COVID-19 (zero cases). Unfortunately, the current State of Emergency requires that all international borders remain closed until further notice. There is a possibility though that by the end of 2021, Samoa is will join the Trans-Tasmanian travel bubble with New Zealand and Australia.

At the moment, Tonga keeps its borders closed for tourism. Only Tongan citizens and permanent residents can enter the island at this time (14-day self-isolation is required). The plans to establish a travel bubble with New Zealand have been delayed.

Currently, entry into Vanuatu is suspended, and only limited exemptions can be made. All arriving passengers 18 years or older must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and should expect extra health screening measures plus a 14-days mandatory quarantine.

Papua New Guinea is not open for tourism yet. Only fully vaccinated travelers that have permission from local authorities can enter Papua New Guinea (PNG). There are no further restrictions for eligible vaccinated visitors to travel domestically within PNG.

Papua New Guinea travel status

To visit PNG you must be fully vaccinated, have written exemption from the National Pandemic Controller, and present evidence of a negative PCR test result taken a maximum of 7 days before boarding.

To apply for an exemption to enter PNG you should email the National Control Centre Travel Desk ( [email protected] ) and attach the following documents:

• International Air Passenger Travel Form (I-APTF)
• a letter to the National Pandemic Controller, stating your reason for travel
• if applicable, your work permit details or/and resident permit details
• copy of your passport biodata page
• copy of your visa for Papua New Guinea
• copy of your reservation at a designated hotel for quarantine

To enter Papua New Guinea, you’ll need:

• evidence of your vaccination
• approved exemption from National Control Centre Travel Desk
• negative COVID-19 test
• proof of reservation at one of the designated quarantine hotels
• online electronic health declaration form

Starting 15th January 2021 all arriving passengers need to quarantine at a designated hotel for 14-days. No physical visits or interaction with friends, family or any other people are allowed during the quarantine.

Papua New Guinea reopening date

Papua New Guinea will open its borders to tourism no earlier than Q1 2022.

For the latest reopening plan of other countries all over the world, we recommend you follow this website

Hello, my name’s Jordan and I’m obsessed with travelling overland. Seeing how cultures change while travelling slowly captivates me; and doing so in an eco-friendly way, preserving the cultures and landscapes that so many travellers yearn to explore, has given me my travelling purpose.

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How long to spend in Cambodia may seem like a ridiculous question to address, but if you have plenty of time and aren’t sure how much to dedicate, this blog will definitely help you out. 

How long can you stay in Cambodia? 

Well, as long as you like! From 7 days to a month, there are various ways you can travel across Cambodia and uncover its secrets. Advising an ideal trip length for Cambodia is a bit of a complex challenge, as it depends on several factors such as the places you wish to visit, the activities you plan to join, or if you want to combine Cambodia with its neighbor countries. 

Stay tuned! We are going to sort all these things out including the step-by-step guide to create the best itinerary in Cambodia.

How long to spend in Thailand may seem like a ridiculous question to address, but if you have plenty of time and aren’t sure how much to dedicate, this blog will definitely help you out. 

How long can you stay in Thailand? 

Well, as long as you like! From 10 days to a month, there are various ways you can travel across Thailand and uncover its secrets. Advising an ideal trip length for Thailand is a bit of a complex challenge, as it depends on several factors such as the places you wish to visit, the activities you plan to join, or if you want to combine Thailand with its neighbor countries. 

Stay tuned! We are going to sort all these things out including the step-by-step guide to create the best itinerary in Thailand.

How long to spend in Laos may seem like a ridiculous question to address, but if you have plenty of time and aren’t sure how much to dedicate, this blog will definitely help you out. 

How long can you stay in Laos? 

Well, as long as you like! From 7 days to a month, there are various ways you can travel across Laos and uncover its secrets. Advising an ideal trip length for Laos is a bit of a complex challenge, as it depends on several factors such as the places you wish to visit, the activities you plan to join, or if you want to combine Laos with its neighbor countries. 

Stay tuned! We are going to sort all these things out including the step-by-step guide to create the best itinerary in Laos.

"Should I visit Thailand or Vietnam?" is some of the most frequently asked questions that we have from our travelers

Well, Vietnam and Thailand are the most popular holiday destinations in Southeast Asia. They are similar in climate and food, though obviously different in culture, lifestyle and travel experience.

Below we list 13 major differences between the two countries , to give you a quick overview and help you decide which to visit first. These are based on our own travel experiences, investigations, and partnerships with local operators.

• About 1 week
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• Family Vacation
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• Honeymoon Vacation
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We believe you have the right to arm yourselves with as much information as possible before making any decision.

Check below the detailed information for our different destinations, our plans by travel theme or time frame to learn more before moving forward..

A land of staggering natural beauty and cultural complexities, of dynamic megacities and hill-tribe villages, Vietnam is both exotic and compelling.

Friendly and food-obsessed, hedonistic and historic, cultured and curious, Thailand tempts visitors with a smile as golden as the country's glittering temples and tropical beaches.

There's a magic about this charming yet confounding kingdom that casts a spell on visitors. In Cambodia, ancient and modern worlds collide to create an authentic adventure.

It's a new era for this extraordinary and complex land, where the landscape is scattered with gilded pagodas and the traditional ways of Asia endure.

Vivid nature, voluptuous landscapes and a vibrant culture collide with a painful past and optimistic future to make Laos an enigmatic experience for the adventurous.

Either are you wondering about best time to visit, visa policy, or how to get the cheapest flight, we have your back! WHAT MORE?  Choose the country you plan to visit, then search for your nationality below to see our special travel tips & advice for your country.  CONTACT US  if you cannot find yours.

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A Country-by-Country Guide to Where Travelers Can Go in Asia

By Kate Springer and Megan Spurrell

A lot has happened since COVID-19 emerged at the end of 2019, with nearly every country in the world having been touched by the virus. But as of fall 2021, more places are figuring out ways to safely reopen their borders to tourists once again, including countries throughout Asia.

Most recently, Singapore announced that vaccinated Americans would be able to visit once again as tourists, if they follow a few simple guidelines. Likewise, Thailand has announced plans to widely reopen to travelers on November 1, and certain provinces in Vietnam have plans to start pilot programs welcoming tourists again ahead of the country-wide reopening in June 2022.

Still, some countries remain closed off entirely. Japan , for instance, is still largely closed to travelers without special exemptions. The Maldives , on the other hand, began welcoming travelers over a year ago, in July 2020.

Travelers entering countries with open borders should expect to do everything from submitting a health questionnaire to taking a pre-departure coronavirus test, undergoing more testing on arrival, and potentially quarantining in a government-approved facility.

Read on for our extensive regional breakdown, designed to help you navigate the various travel restrictions and reopening statuses throughout Asia. This intel on more than 20 countries will be updated regularly.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

China , the original epicenter of the COVID-19 outbreak, began reopening in 2020. As of December 2020, U.S. citizens who have valid residence permits and visas may enter mainland China if they present two pre-departure test results: a negative COVID-19 nucleic acid test (taken within 72 hours of departure) and an IgM antibody test. Travelers must submit results to the Chinese Embassy to obtain a green health code or health declaration form for entry ( more details here ). Upon arrival, U.S. travelers must complete a 14-day quarantine, and additional health screening is also in place at China's airports. The American Embassy in China notes on their website that while domestic travel restrictions have eased, local rules vary greatly and change rapidly. All international arrivals, they say, should be prepared to complete quarantine at a government-selected facility or hotel at their own expense, even if they have a residence in China.

Hong Kong has implemented social distancing and quarantine measures off and on throughout the pandemic. And as of August 20 , 2021, the Hong Kong government moved the U.S. to the “high risk” category. This means only fully vaccinated Hong Kong residents may enter—non-resident U.S. travelers will be denied entry, and U.S. travelers who are residents will still need to quarantine for 21 days. Anyone coming from the U.S. will need to present a valid vaccination record, a negative PCR-based COVID-19 test (within 72 hours of departure), and show proof of a hotel room confirmation at a government-approved hotel. Upon arrival, they’ll undergo another test, wait for negative results, then be transferred to quarantine for 21 days, followed by seven days of self-monitoring and five coronavirus tests throughout.

Japan is mostly closed to U.S. travelers.

Japan’s borders are currently closed to most travelers , including travelers from the U.S. A few exceptions to the rule include those with "Special Permanent Resident," “Permanent Resident,” “Spouse or Child of a Japanese National,” “Spouse or Child of a Permanent Resident,” or “Long Term Resident” status. Those returning to Japan must show proof of negative coronavirus test results taken within 72 hours of departure, take a mandatory test upon landing, and self-quarantine for 14 days.

Taiwan ’s initial coronavirus response was incredibly successful at keeping coronavirus cases minimal, but a second wave upended daily life in May 2021. That said, as of June 29, foreign travelers with a non-tourism reason for entering Taiwan can apply for permission to enter; “students and people wishing to study Mandarin in Taiwan" can apply to travel to the island, according to Taiwan's Bureau of Consular Affairs . Those granted permission will need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within three days prior to boarding their flight and quarantine in a government-approved hotel or facility with periodic testing, at their own expense, for 14 days upon arrival.

By Jessica Puckett

By Olivia Morelli

By Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

By Devra Ferst

South Korea was praised for controlling its first wave of coronavirus cases , but new outbreaks have continued to crop up. In October 2021, the country began easing restrictions on social gatherings and operating hours at cafés and restaurants as part of its new “living with COVID-19” strategy . Borders remain open to travelers , including to those from the U.S. who are willing to quarantine. All inbound travelers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PRC test within 72 hours of departure and are required to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. Non-Korean short-term travelers must do this at a government-designated facility at their own expense (costs per night average $100-$150), and travelers will need to consent to these terms to board their flight. Only a few categories of short-term travelers—like those traveling for business, academic reasons, or family emergencies— can request quarantine exemption before they travel . Fully inoculated travelers in South Korea may be eligible for activity monitoring instead of government quarantine at the discretion of Korean authorities at the point of entry.

Southeast Asia

Vietnam’s borders remain largely closed to all foreign nationals, with just a few rare exemptions for diplomats and those with an essential business reason. (Family reunification does not qualify for an exemption.) On October 7, 2021, the Vietnamese government announced plans to reopen its borders to foreign visitors in June 2022. Some provinces, including Phu Quoc and Khanh Hoa, are planning to implement pilot phases of the reopening as soon as November 2021. Although the country escaped the first wave of coronavirus largely unscathed, the Delta variant has swept through the country, which has now seen more than 900,000 infections.

Singapore is allowing fully vaccinated U.S. travelers to apply for quarantine-free entry under the Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) program as of October 19, 2021. All travelers, except those under the age of 2, must still present a negative PCR test result administered by an internationally accredited medical facility . The test also must be taken within 48 hours of passengers’ departing flight. All flights must be designated VTL flights made by certain airlines or travelers may be denied entry into Singapore. For more information on the program, visit the Singapore government’s FAQ page .

Malaysia is prohibiting foreign entry , with very few exceptions. The country has launched a program that allows a few categories of travelers—including residents, professionals, and spouses of Malaysian citizens—to apply to enter the country. As of August 10, 2021, fully vaccinated Malaysians and residents granted entry will be subject to a rapid COVID-19 test and a mandatory 14-day self-quarantine with compulsory electronic monitoring. Note that the local U.S. Embassy warns that local regulations are changing quickly and vary greatly throughout the country (the states of Sabah and Sarawak, for example, have complete autonomy over their ports of entry).

Thailand will begin allowing fully vaccinated U.S. travelers to visit on November 1, 2021. Vaccinated travelers will be exempt from quarantine, but will need to wait in an approved hotel for one night to receive a negative PCR test result on arrival. Tourists must register for the Thailand Pass digital vaccine passport before entering Thailand. That process takes up to seven days and requires proof of medical insurance that covers all COVID-19 expenditures up to $50,000, passport information, airline ticket, proof of vaccine, and proof of one-night hotel booking for arrival PCR test. Unvaccinated travelers will also be allowed to visit, but will need to quarantine in an approved hotel for at least 10 days.

Cambodia has suspended its e-visa and visa-on-arrival programs, but is granting visas to international visitors with diplomatic, official, or other business reasons to visit. The entry requirements are among the most stringent: All foreign travelers must put down a $2,000 deposit upon entering the country, which is used to cover a mandatory 14-day quarantine at a government-selected hotel, testing, and transportation from the airport. Travelers must also arrive with proof of a negative test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival. Additionally, a local health insurance package from Forte Insurance that is valid for 20 days must be purchased for $90. (The Cambodian government has released a fee schedule breaking down these costs. )

Indonesia has recorded one of the highest number of COVID cases in Southeast Asia, at over 3.8 million . The island of Bali has been given priority under Indonesia’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout plan so it can reopen to international tourism as soon as possible. But, for now, visa-free and visa-on-arrival options remain suspended for all foreign nationals. Travelers eligible for entry under certain visas are still required to complete a mandatory 14-day quarantine at a government facility or under the supervision of the Indonesian health authority, as well as to present a negative pre-travel test.

The Philippines , another Southeast Asian country lashed by the pandemic, has recently taken a region-based approach to its lockdown efforts. The government placed Manila under lockdown in early August in an attempt to slow the spread of the Delta variant. Currently, borders remain closed to U.S. travelers, with few exceptions: Filipino nationals, spouses and children of nationals who are traveling with the Filipino citizen, former Filipino citizens, and residents returning from abroad will be allowed in with an appropriate visa, but will still be subject to a quarantine of at least six days in a government facility. Travelers will need to show their quarantine arrangements at the airport before departure. All entries will be subject to a maximum number of inbound passengers set per port and date of entry. (The U.S. Embassy in the Philippines encourages travelers to contact the nearest Philippines Embassy or Consulate for more details .)

India is fully resuming tourism and other short-term trips on November 15, 2021, for individuals with tourist or e-tourist visas issued on or after October 6, 2021. (Tourist visas prior to that date will not be honored, and individuals will likely be detained and returned to their port of origin.) All international travelers, regardless of vaccination status must upload a negative PCR test to the Air Suvidha portal taken within 72 hours of their departing flight, as well as a self-declaration form within 72 hours of the start of their journey. Passengers must also be screened for a fever upon arrival—if their temperature is normal they do not have to quarantine and can self-monitor for symptoms for 14 days; anyone with a fever will be sent to additional screening and either institutional quarantine or home quarantine on a case-by-case basis.

The Maldives reopened to travelers in July 2020 with various hotels and resorts opening in waves (you can find a complete list of open properties on the government's website). Travelers must have a booking at a registered hotel from the list above for entry; travelers must also stay at just one hotel for the duration of their stay. Travelers regardless of vaccination status must present on arrival a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel (children under age 1 are exempt). Visitors must submit tests within 24 hours of arrival in the Maldives as part of the mandatory Traveler Health Declaration form .

Nepal reopened to travelers in October. 

Nepal started welcoming trekkers and mountaineers into the country in October 2020. As of September 24, 2021, the country began allowing fully vaccinated tourists to visit without quarantine. Upon arrival in Nepal, vaccinated tourists must present: proof of vaccination; a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of entry into Nepal; a copy of any mountaineering/trekking permits, or related permits, if available; proof of hotel reservation; and a printed copy of the International Traveler Online Arrival Form . Unvaccinated travelers are also allowed but in addition to the above paperwork, they are required to present a letter of recommendation from their travel/trekking/tour agent in Nepal and a visa from the Nepali diplomatic missions abroad. On-arrival visas are not available to unvaccinated travelers.

Sri Lanka is allowing U.S. citizens as of August 16 for tourism, so long as they secure a valid tourism visa , present a negative PCR test, take another test on arrival, and quarantine at a government hotel for one to two nights (if fully vaccinated) or 14 days (if partially or unvaccinated). In addition, the government has instituted a nightly curfew from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m., and there are some restrictions on inter-provincial travel due to outbreaks.

Turkey was among the earliest countries to reopen, with restaurants, museums, and hotels up and running again in 2020. However, the country implemented new restrictions—including a curfew and bans on interstate travel—after a significant spike in cases in the first half of 2021. As of July 1, the Turkish government has lifted restrictions and travelers can move around the country freely. However, as of September 6, proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours is required for intercity travel by bus, plane, train, or other public transportation. Arriving U.S. citizens do not need to quarantine, so long as they present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of their flight, or an antigen test within 48 hours. It’s worth noting that U.S. travelers can bypass the above if they show official proof of full vaccination at least 14 days before arrival or COVID-19 infection in the past six months.

Travelers will need an entry permit to enter Israel.

Israel has reopened to fully inoculated travelers from the U.S., but the country is currently on the U.S. State Department’s “Do Not Travel List” due to COVID-19 outbreaks. Since the U.S. is currently listed as an “orange” or “at-risk” destination by the Israeli government, travelers must secure an entry permit and present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before the scheduled departure. Upon arrival, they will need to take an additional COVID-19 test, present proof of vaccination or a certificate of recovery, and stay in quarantine for 24 hours or until test results comes back.

Jordan is currently open to U.S. citizens, who present a health form at flight check-in and a completed PCR test taken no more than 72 hours prior to arrival in Jordan. Proof of health insurance that covers COVID-19 treatments during the entire visit is also required. Unvaccinated travelers will need to conduct a second test upon arrival at the traveler's expense of 28 JD (about $40); fully vaccinated travelers can show proof of vaccination to eliminate the second on-arrival test.

Georgia has resumed international flights, and visitors from the U.S. must either present proof of full immunization upon entry. Unvaccinated travelers from the U.S. can enter Georgia without a quarantine if they present a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours before departure, are flying only from an approved list of countries (including layovers), and take another COVID test at their own expense on the third day after arrival.

Central Asia

Uzbekistan permits U.S. citizens to enter with a visa and a negative COVID-19 test taken at an approved lab within 72 hours of departure. U.S. citizens do not need to quarantine unless they test positive on a PCR test after arrival. Tourist sites have reopened with a new standardized set of hygiene regulations, and the government is backing these measures with a guarantee—should you arrive and contract COVID-19, the country offers up to $3,000 to cover medical expenses.

Additional reporting by Jessica Puckett

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Travel to Asia: A Reopening Timeline, Country by Country

Throughout Asia, many countries have upheld strict testing, tracking, and quarantine methods that have kept case numbers low, and only a small number of countries, like Sri Lanka and the Maldives, have fully reopened for tourism. Others, such as Japan and China, are either keeping borders closed or enforcing strict mandatory quarantines while Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam are experimenting with limited reopening programs that let tourists visit without quarantining.

Following the surge of the Omicron variant , several Asian countries have barred the entry of foreign nationals again. Here’s what you need to know about current border regulations and travel restrictions in Asia.

Bhutan's borders are closed and there is an active travel ban in place for most countries. A reopening of borders for tourism is not expected until later in 2021.

Although the government has not reinstated its visa-on-arrival program, Cambodia has reopened to tourists who can apply for an eVisa . They will also need proof of vaccination and a negative test taken within 72 hours of arrival. Every traveler will be retested on arrival. There is no requirement to quarantine as long as travelers can show proof of vaccination.

U.S. citizens who already have visas and wish to enter China will be subject to a health screening and a 14-day quarantine. Requirements may vary depending on your port of entry.

Regardless of vaccination status, anyone traveling to China must apply for a health code via the government website and must take two tests: one PCR test within seven days of departure and one PCR, antigen, or antibody test within 48 hours.

Until January 21, direct flights from the U.S., the UK, Canada, Australia, and other high-risk countries have been suspended. Travelers who have spent 14 days prior to entering Hong Kong in China, Macau, or other low-risk countries can enter Hong Kong regardless of vaccination or residency status.

Hong Kong generally allows vaccinated visitors from high-risk countries, like the United States, to enter for tourism. Each traveler is required to show a negative PCR test and quarantine for 21 days, plus seven days of self-monitoring. The United States is classified as a high-risk country, which means travelers are only allowed entry if they are fully vaccinated and possess residency status in Hong Kong.

India has reopened for short-term tourism . International passengers must submit a negative PCR test and proof of vaccination via declaration form . Upon arrival, they will also be required to submit to a health screening quarantine for at least seven days if they are not fully vaccinated or are arriving from an at-risk country.

U.S. citizens will be allowed to enter Indonesia only if they have an existing and valid visa or residence permit. If so, travelers must show proof of insurance, vaccination , and a negative test taken within 72 hours of arrival. After arrival, all visitors must complete a mandatory quarantine at a government-designated facility for at least seven days or more, depending on the result of two PCR tests. Entry is restricted to arrivals from South Africa, France, Denmark, the United Kingdom, and other high-risk countries.

Foreign nationals and non-residents are not allowed to enter Japan for any reason. Non-Japanese citizens will be denied entry if they are traveling from South Africa, Eswatini, Namibia, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Lesotho, Angola, Botswana, or Zimbabwe. Anyone allowed to enter Japan must be tested within 72 hours of departure and quarantine for 14 days, regardless of vaccination status.

Most borders remain closed and all entrants will be subject to COVID-19 testing on arrival and a 14-day hotel quarantine at their own expense. U.S. citizens will not be allowed to enter unless they already hold a long-term visa.

Under the Green Zone Travel Plan , foreign nationals from the U.S. and other countries may be allowed to enter Laos as part of a pre-arranged tour that sticks to designated tourist zones. Travelers must be fully vaccinated, show proof of insurance, and provide a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours.

Malaysia has banned the entry of foreign nationals from high-risk countries, including the U.S. Some exceptions can be made for foreign travelers with long-term passes, but they will have to request approval from the Immigration Department first. These travelers will need a PCR test 48 hours before their trip and must quarantine for at least seven days when they arrive. They will also be tested on arrival and must pay for this test in advance via the government website .

Fully vaccinated travelers may be allowed to travel between Malaysia and Singapore.

The Maldives is welcoming all foreign nationals, but tourists will be required to show a negative test taken within 96 hours of leaving for their trip regardless of vaccination status. They will also need a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours to check out of their accommodation. The test results will need to be attached when filling out the required Traveler Health Declaration form online.

All international flights have been suspended . All foreign nationals who enter Myanmar will need to provide a negative test result taken within 72 hours of departing. Vaccinated travelers will be required to quarantine at a government facility or hotel for at least seven days while unvaccinated travelers must quarantine for 10 days.

Tourists visiting Nepal can once again obtain a visa on arrival without needing to complete a quarantine. Passengers must provide proof of vaccination and a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival, in addition to proof of a hotel reservation and a printed-out copy of the International Online Arrival Form . Unvaccinated travelers will not be allowed to enter Nepal in most cases after January 21.

Short-term visitors may now enter Singapore if they have been issued a Safe Travel Pass . To enter, they will need a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours and must submit to another PCR test upon arrival. Visitors will be issued a notice to stay home and quarantine for seven days. Those who break their Stay-Home Notice (SHN) could be fined up to $10,000 or face jail time.

Vaccinated U.S. travelers can apply for a quarantine-free entry, also known as the Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) program, via the Safe Travel Lanes website . A negative test will still be required and travelers must arrive on an approved airline. As of December 22, VTL ticket sales have been temporarily suspended.

South Korea

Most foreign travelers, including U.S. citizens, arriving in South Korea must show a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure and complete a 10-day quarantine at a government facility at their own expense, regardless of vaccination status. After two negative tests, it is possible to be released from quarantine early.

Sri Lanka is open and to enter, visitors will be required to show a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of their flight. Unless they can show proof of vaccination, travelers must quarantine for 14 days on arrival. Unvaccinated visitors must purchase COVID insurance when filling out the form on the government website .

Foreign visitors, including U.S. citizens, are allowed to enter Taiwan if they qualify for an exception, but the country is still closed for tourism. Anyone qualified to enter Taiwan, regardless of nationality and vaccination status, must submit a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours of departure, provide their travel and contact history, and undergo a 14-day quarantine, followed by seven days of self-monitoring , after being PCR tested on arrival. Travelers will also be required to purchase a Taiwanese SIM card for location-tracking purposes.

Thailand has reopened for international tourists including U.S. travelers. Tourists will be required to show a negative PCR test and proof of medical insurance. Travelers must also request the Thailand Pass online at least seven days before their travel date. Visa processing is reportedly slow and applications could take up to 15 business days to be approved.

As of January 11, travelers can enter Thailand and quarantine at an approved Alternative Quarantine (AQ) hotel or resort for at least seven days.

The government has suspended entry to all foreigners, with a limited number of exceptions. Foreign nationals who are allowed to enter will have to present a negative PCR test and will be subject to more testing and a mandatory quarantine at their own expense when they arrive. For fully vaccinated travelers, the quarantine period has been shortened to three days. Vietnam plans to reopen in June 2022.

Government of the United Kingdom. " Foreign Travel Advice: Bhutan ." July 20, 2021.

U.S. Embassy in Cambodia. " COVID-19 Information ." January 18, 2022.

U.S. Embassy & Consulates in China. " COVID-19 Information ." January 18, 2022.

Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the United States. " Notice on China-bound Foreign Passengers' Application of Health Code (January 2022) ." January 5, 2022.

U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau. " COVID-19 Information ." January 13, 2022.

U.S. Embassy & Consulates in India. " COVID-19 Information ." January 7, 2022.

U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Indonesia. " COVID-19 Information ." January 11, 2022.

Government of the United Kingdom. " Foreign Travel Advice: Japan ." January 15, 2022.

U.S. Embassy in Laos. " COVID-19 Information ." December 4, 2021.

U.S. Embassy in Malaysia. " COVID-19 Information ." January 14, 2022.

U.S. Mission to Maldives. " COVID-19 Information ." January 13, 2022.

Maldives Immigration. " Pre-Entry PCR Certificate with Negative Test Result, as an Entry Requirement for Tourists and Other Short-Term Visitors Traveling to Maldives ." September 10, 2020.

U.S. Embassy in Burma. " COVID-19 Information ." January 7, 2022.

U.S. Embassy in Nepal. " COVID-19 Information ." January 13, 2022.

U.S. Embassy in Singapore. " COVID-19 Information ." December 6, 2021.

Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority. " Vaccinated Travel Lane (Air) Overview ." December 22, 2021.

U.S. Embassy & Consulate in the Republic of Korea. " COVID-19 Information ." January 18, 2022.

U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka. “ COVID-19 Information .” December 30, 2021.

American Institute in Taiwan. “ COVID-19 Information .” January 11, 2022.

Royal Thai Embassy, Washington D.C. " Visas and Thailand Pass [During COVID Situation] . December 7, 2021.

Tourism Authority of Thailand. " UPDATED! Happy Quarantine Entry Rules from 11 January 2022 ." January 7, 2022.

U.S. Embassy & Consulate in Vietnam. " COVID-19 Information ." January 18, 2022.

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Where Americans Can Travel in Asia — A Country-by-country Guide

A current list of where U.S. travelers can visit in Asia and what to know before going.

Countries all around the world are opening to tourism, and while some in Asia have been slightly slower than others, many are starting to open up and dropping pandemic-related travel restrictions. 

Travelers can eat their way across Thailand , which has eliminated all COVID-19-related travel restrictions, relax on the gorgeous beaches in Bali or the Maldives , step into history in Vietnam , and even explore the bustling cities in Japan, which is welcoming independent travelers in October.

However, while many countries continue to roll back restrictions, some have implemented strict testing and contact tracing efforts for tourists.

These are the countries in Asia that welcome American travelers, and the rules visitors need to know before going.

Bangladesh welcomes American travelers, according to the U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh . Fully vaccinated travelers are exempt from pre-arrival testing, while unvaccinated travelers must show proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of their departure. Children under 12 are exempt from testing.

All travelers must complete a Passenger Health Declaration Form within three days of arrival in the country.

Bhutan has opened to tourists without quarantine and does not require proof of vaccination to visit, according to the Tourism Council of Bhutan . Travelers 12 and older may be subject to random PCR testing upon arrival. 

Bhutan charges a $200 daily tourism tax, which it calls a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) that is intended to fund social programs, infrastructure, and environmental protections.

This small Southeast Asian country welcomes travelers and does not require them to be vaccinated or get tested before coming, according to the government .

Travelers must have proof of travel medical insurance that includes COVID-19 coverage of at least BND $20,000 (about $14,042 USD).

Cambodia welcomes both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers without the need to get tested before coming, according to the U.S. Embassy in Cambodia . The country has also reopened its visa on arrival program.

Unvaccinated travelers must undergo a rapid antigen test upon arrival, according to the government and costs $5 USD.

Most of China remains closed to tourism, but Hong Kong recently eliminated its mandatory 3-day hotel quarantine and eased testing rules, now requiring travelers to be vaccinated and undergo a rapid antigen test 24 hours before their departure, according to the Hong Kong Tourism Board . Travelers must also undergo a PCR test on day 2, day 4, and day 6 after their arrival as well as undergo a rapid antigen test each day for seven days.

In lieu of the hotel quarantine, travelers must self monitor for symptoms for three days. They will be able to go outside during this time but restricted from certain places like bars and restaurants.

India started allowing regularly scheduled international commercial flights to resume flying to the country in March. All travelers to India must show either proof of vaccination or proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of their trip, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare . 

Travelers must also complete a self-declaration form online before traveling.

Indonesia has opened to vaccinated tourists, according to the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Indonesia .

Additionally, vaccinated domestic travelers must either show proof of a booster shot, proof of a negative rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours of traveling, or proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of traveling to travel within Indonesia.

Japan first reopened to escorted group tourism in June, but plans to welcome independent travelers once again in October. Travelers will be required to show proof of vaccination and a booster or show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of their departure to enter, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization .

Laos has opened to tourists and allows both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers, according to the International Air Transport Association’s destination tracker. Vaccinated travelers are exempt from testing, while unvaccinated travelers must show proof of a negative COVID-19 rapid antigen test taken within 48 hours of their departure. Travelers under 12 are exempt.

Malaysia lifted all COVID-19-related entry requirements on Aug. 1, according to the U.S. Embassy in Malaysia .

The Maldives welcomes travelers from all over the world, including the U.S., and does not require visitors to get tested before coming, according to the government . All arriving and departing passengers must complete a Traveler Declaration form within 96 hours of their flight.

Myanmar allows travelers to enter the country on commercial flights, according to the U.S. Embassy in Burma . Travelers must show either proof of vaccination and proof of a negative rapid test taken within 48 hours of their arrival, or proof of a negative PCR test taken no more than 48 hours before their arrival if the traveler is unvaccinated. Children under 12 are exempt.

Travelers must also purchase COVID-19 medical insurance from Myanma Insurance.

Travelers are allowed to enter Mongolia without any pre-arrival testing or quarantine measures in place, regardless of their vaccination status,  according to the U.S. Embassy in Mongolia . Travelers must fill out a medical declaration form upon arrival at the border checkpoints.

Nepal welcomes travelers and offers visas on arrival, regardless of vaccination status, according to the U.S. Embassy in Nepal . Arriving travelers must show proof of full vaccination or proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR or NAAT test taken within 72 hours of their departure.

Philippines

The Philippines welcomes vaccinated travelers, including from the U.S., and requires them to either show proof of having received a booster dose, according to the government, or show proof of a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours of their departure or proof of a negative laboratory-based antigen test taken within 24 hours of their departure.

Children under 12 traveling with their fully-vaccinated parents are exempt from the vaccination requirement.

Singapore welcomes all travelers, regardless of their vaccination status, according to the Singapore Tourism Board . Vaccinated travelers (and unvaccinated children under 12) are exempt from all pre-departure tests, on-arrival tests, quarantine, and entry approvals. Unvaccinated visitors 12 and older must arrive with proof of a PCR or rapid antigen test taken within two days of their departure and have travel insurance that covers COVID-19 with at least $30,000 of medical coverage.

Travelers must download the TraceTogether app. Three days before their departure, travelers must submit an SG Arrival Card and e-health declaration through the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website.

South Korea

South Korea welcomes American tourists without quarantine, regardless of their vaccination status. Travelers no longer have to undergo any pre-departure or on-arrival testing, according to the Korea Tourism Organization. 

Sri Lanka allows fully vaccinated travelers to enter the country quarantine-free and without any pre-arrival testing, according to the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka 404. 

Unvaccinated travelers can also be exempt from quarantine, but must show proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of their trip or a negative rapid antigen test taken within 48 hours of their trip, according to the tourism site 403. Children under 12 are exempt from testing.

Thailand has eliminated all pandemic-related entry requirements, welcoming all international travelers, including from the U.S., according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand . Travelers no longer need to show proof of vaccination or proof of any testing to enter.

Vietnam welcomes travelers to the country and no longer requires them to arrive with a pre-departure COVID-19 test, according to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism . Travelers must purchase medical or travel insurance that covers COVID-19 with a minimum coverage of $10,000.

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she's not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram .

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clock This article was published more than  1 year ago

Asia is reopening to travelers. Here’s where you can go.

Japan, Hong Kong and China are the latest destinations to ease restrictions for tourists

This story has been updated.

While many of Americans’ favorite international tourism destinations across Europe and the Caribbean reopened in fits and starts, Asia largely trailed behind, remaining largely closed to leisure travelers until 2022.

Popular spots like Japan and Indonesia have reopened and smoothed out complicated entry requirements. Countries including Thailand and Singapore have exceeded their targets for international arrivals in 2022 and are now setting even higher goals for the new year.

What I learned on a two-week trip to Vietnam and Cambodia

But while visitors and countries are eager for a strong new year for travel in Asia, pandemic entry requirements still remain in many places. Here’s a look at where Americans can go and how.

As of Oct. 11, international travelers are allowed to enter Japan with a valid vaccination certificate or a negative result of a coronavirus test taken within 72 hours of departure. They don’t need to be chaperoned by a guide or part of a tour group. Short-term visitors that were exempt from visa requirements before the pandemic, which includes travelers from the United States, will no longer need to apply for tourist visas.

Japan’s tourism organization has published guidelines on the “New Travel Etiquette for Visitors,” including where people must wear masks, among other coronavirus mitigation recommendations.

The U.S. Embassy recommends travelers consult the latest regulations through Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website .

Everything you need to know about traveling to Japan

As of Jan. 8 , the country has dropped its severe mandatory quarantine on arrival and only requires travelers to show a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours before departure.

But this phase of reopening is not intended for foreign tourism, but rather to allow Chinese nationals (and foreign nationals with valid residence permits and visas) the freedom to travel abroad again. Like before the pandemic, foreigners will need an official permit or a visa from the Chinese Embassy to enter the country. They’ll only be given to people with a compelling reason to visit such as business, school or seeing relatives.

As of Jan. 9, the State Department has a Level 3 advisory for China (along with Hong Kong and Macao) due to the surge of covid cases, covid-related restrictions and “arbitrary enforcement of local laws.” Travelers considering a trip to China should refer to the State Department’s entire travel information page for updates on travel advisories and country information.

Everything you need to know about traveling to China

South Korea

South Korea has resumed issuing short-term travel visas to foreign tourists. The country no longer has coronavirus testing requirements or testing on arrival for entry regardless of vaccination status.

You must register with the country’s Q-code system ahead of travel, or you can complete the Health Questionnaire and Travel Record Declaration (Special Quarantine Report) on your flight to Korea (the Q-code system is recommended , however, for a smoother entry experience).

As of Oct. 13, Taiwan no longer requires visitors to quarantine on arrival. There are no inbound testing requirements for travelers, but they are required to take rapid tests in Taiwan and monitor their health for seven days.

Hong Kong has been easing its rigid pandemic rules since last fall.

As of Dec. 29, travelers to Hong Kong must take a self-arranged rapid test (RAT) within 24 hours of their flight and submit results through an online portal , but they no longer have to take a PCR test after landing. Travelers over 12 are required to be fully vaccinated or have a medical exemption certificate, and will be subject to a temperature check at their arrival airport.

Travelers should review the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s additional information on inbound travel requirements .

Fully vaccinated visitors and non-fully vaccinated children 12 or younger may enter Singapore without testing or quarantine requirements. Three days before their arrival, they must complete an SG Arrival Card and e-health declaration through the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority website.

Unvaccinated travelers must take an approved PCR or rapid test within two days of their departure to Singapore. They must also purchase coronavirus-specific travel insurance covering their whole stay with a minimum coverage of about $21,000 ($30,000 in Singapore dollars), in addition to submitting an SG Arrival Card.

Pre-departure testing isn’t required for those who have tested positive for the coronavirus between 14 to 90 days before their trip, but they must provide documentation to prove their infection or recovery.

The Singapore SafeTravel website has more information and a helpful tool to guide travelers through their specific requirements.

Since October, visitors to Thailand no longer have to show proof of vaccination or test ahead of arrival, marking the end of the country’s pandemic travel restrictions.

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As of May 15, Vietnam does not require a coronavirus test to enter the country. All travelers must purchase a coronavirus-specific travel insurance policy covering at least $10,000.

Vaccinated travelers may enter Laos without testing requirements. Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated visitors over 12 must provide proof of a negative coronavirus rapid test taken within 48 hours of their trip.

Cambodia is welcoming travelers without quarantine or testing requirements.

Philippines

As of Dec. 5, travelers to the Philippines are no longer required to complete a BOQ e-Health Declaration Card. They must instead register through the country’s new eTravel platform no more than 72 hours before departure for the Philippines.

As of May , fully vaccinated travelers with at least one booster dose are no longer required to provide a negative PCR test.

Unvaccinated travelers 15 and older must provide results from a rapid test (RAT) administered and certified by a health-care professional within 24 hours of departure to the Philippines.

Unvaccinated, accompanied minors under 15 can follow the protocols of their parent or accompanying adult traveling with them.

As of Aug. 1 , all travelers may enter Malaysia without coronavirus testing or quarantine requirements, regardless of vaccination status.

Indonesia has a new nomad visa that will grant wealthy transplants long-term stays on the island.

Vaccinated travelers no longer need to provide a PCR or antigen test result to enter Indonesia. However, a PCR test will be administered at the airport if travelers report coronavirus symptoms or show a temperature above 99.5 degrees. If travelers test negative, they will be required to isolate at their residence or an approved facility at their own expense.

Unvaccinated travelers will need to take a PCR test on arrival and self-quarantine for five days. On the fourth day, they can take a PCR test to end their quarantine. According to the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Indonesia, local authorities may quarantine and vaccinate unvaccinated inbound travelers.

Those who have had the coronavirus and recovered within 30 days of their trip to Indonesia are required to take a PCR test on arrival and provide proof of recovery from a hospital in their home country.

All travelers must download the PeduliLindungi contact-tracing app before departure to Indonesia.

All visitors must get a tourist visa ahead of their trip, and either submit proof of vaccination or results of a PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure to India, according to the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare guidelines . Travelers should submit their vaccine information or test results, as well as a self-declaration form, through the Air Suvidha portal ahead of their trip. Children under 5 are exempt from testing requirements but may be tested if they are symptomatic on arrival. As of December, additional requirements may be required for visitors entering from “high risk” countries; travelers should review the U.S. Embassy in India’s website for more details .

On landing in India, travelers may be randomly selected for a post-arrival test at the airport.

All travelers are required to self-monitor their health for 14 days.

All travelers are welcome in Sri Lanka without testing requirements regardless of vaccination status, but must purchase a covid-19 insurance policy provided by Sri Lanka Tourism for $12 per month.

The Maldives revoked its public health emergency March 13. Visitors must complete a travel health declaration form within 72 hours of their flight, but they are not required to test or quarantine. The government recommends taking a PCR test three to five days after arrival.

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As of March 16 , Nepal allows fully vaccinated visitors to enter the country without testing. Travelers who can’t present a certificate of vaccination have to take an approved coronavirus test (RT-PCR, NAAT, Gene Xpert) within 72 hours of their inbound flight.

United Arab Emirates

Vaccinated travelers to the UAE do not have to take a PCR test if they can present an approved vaccine certificate that contains a QR code. Unvaccinated visitors have to show a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours of departure or a QR-code-enabled certificate of recovery that was obtained within a month of the travel date.

As of Sept. 28, the UAE lifted its masking requirement for public places, but masks are still required in medical facilities and mosques and on public transportation.

Effective March 14, international visitors may enter Mongolia without any travel restrictions. The country removed its testing requirements for both vaccinated and unvaccinated visitors. Travelers will be asked to fill out a medical declaration form on arrival to Mongolia.

Myanmar resumed issuing tourist visas for vaccinated foreigners in May. Travelers must provide proof of vaccination with their entry application, or a negative test result from an RDT or rapid coronavirus test taken within 48 hours of arrival to Myanmar. Children under 12 are not required to provide a test result if they’re traveling with a fully vaccinated parent or guardian.

Visitors are also required to buy a travel insurance policy from Myanma Insurance and attach it to their entry application. They should bring printed copies of their test result, proof of vaccination and travel insurance.

Travelers must pay for a rapid test on arrival (about $8) and submit a Health Declaration Form.

However, travel to Myanmar is discouraged. The State Department has issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory for the country for its civil unrest and armed conflict. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has designated actions taken by military in Myanmar against the country’s Rohingya Muslims a genocide and crimes against humanity .

Nathan Diller, Theodora Yu, Gabe Hiatt and Hannah Sampson contributed to this report.

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Which Asia-Pacific countries are re-opening to foreign visitors?

Kuala Lumpur (AFP) – Thailand's re-opening to vaccinated foreign tourists marks a major easing of border controls for Asia, where governments have been far slower to roll back coronavirus travel curbs than in much of the West.

Issued on: 27/10/2021 - 09:12 Modified: 27/10/2021 - 09:11

Here is a look at which countries are opening up across the Asia-Pacific region and those staying sealed off from the world.

Southeast Asia

Thailand will allow vaccinated travellers from 46 countries and territories to enter the kingdom without quarantining from Monday, as it seeks to revive its vital tourism industry.

Other parts of the region -- which largely escaped the pandemic's initial wave, only to be hit hard this year -- are following its lead, albeit at a slower pace.

Business hub Singapore has started quarantine-free travel for fully vaccinated travellers from 10 countries, including the United States and several European countries, and will add more soon.

Indonesia re-opened the resort island of Bali this month to tourists from select countries although, with travellers still required to do a five-day quarantine on arrival, the scheme has had a slow start.

Vietnam plans to allow foreign visitors entry to the holiday island of Phu Quoc from next month and Malaysia has a similar plan for Langkawi island, while Cambodia will reopen beach spots Sihanoukville, Koh Rong and Dara Sakor from November 30.

Some countries, including the Philippines and Myanmar, remain closed to foreign tourists.

Mainland China, where Covid-19 first emerged last year, remains closed to overseas tourists, as is Japan.

South Korea has started accepting visitors from 49 countries. A negative coronavirus test is required for all arrivals, with a limited exemption from a 14-day quarantine for those vaccinated in South Korea.

Some of the world's toughest measures have been implemented in Hong Kong -- with a maximum 21-day quarantine for incoming travellers -- which has kept virus cases low but crippled the travel industry.

Recovering from a devastating surge earlier this year, India re-opened for foreign tourists on charter flights this month and will allow in visitors on all flights from mid-November.

Fully vaccinated travellers no longer have to undergo home quarantine, provided they are arriving from countries with which India has reciprocal arrangements for acceptance of WHO-approved vaccines.

Last month, Nepal started issuing visas on arrival for vaccinated tourists and dropped quarantine requirements as it seeks to lure back foreign trekkers to its mountains.

More than a million tourists visited the Himalayan country in 2019 -- but numbers dropped by 80 percent last year.

Among the first countries to reopen borders was the popular holiday destination of the Maldives, which started allowing in foreign tourists in July last year.

The number of tourists visiting the Indian Ocean atoll nation recovered to 500,000 last year following the re-opening, and authorities expect 1.5 million holidaymakers this year -- just shy of the figure in 2019.

Sri Lanka opened its international borders for fully vaccinated tourists without any quarantine requirements on October 7, while Pakistan allows in foreign visitors as long as they have proof of vaccination and a negative Covid-19 test.

Australia and the Pacific

Australia introduced some of the world's toughest border restrictions in response to the pandemic, banning citizens from travelling overseas without permission.

But the government announced Wednesday that the ban would be lifted, with the country's border also set to open to skilled workers and international students by year's end.

New Zealand remains closed to foreign visitors, with no date for reopening.

The South Pacific nation of Fiji, whose economy is heavily tourism-dependent, will allow vaccinated travellers from countries across Europe and Asia to enter quarantine-free, as well as those from the United States, starting December 1.

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Updated: A country-by-country guide to coronavirus reopenings

Almost three years after the COVID-19 pandemic first upended international travel, many countries have finally returned to pre-pandemic entry requirements by removing vaccination and testing mandates; others have made the process less of a hassle by easing restrictions. Even some of the most restrictive nations are finally open to tourists again. For instance, Japan, announced on Sept. 22 that it would allow visa-free travel there as of Oct. 11. Meanwhile, Taiwan restored visa exemption for U.S passport holders on Sept. 12, and entry for Americans are now able to visit.

Still, a number of countries have restrictions in place, so knowing the rules before you travel internationally remains important.

Related: A country-by-country guide to where you can travel without a COVID-19 test

Reentering the U.S. has also gotten easier since the government on June 12 ended its requirement that all air travelers to the U.S. take a COVID-19 antigen test the day before their flight. The U.S. continues to require that noncitizens and nonresidents be fully vaccinated to enter. For details, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website .

Warnings from the CDC and U.S. Department of State also continued to evolve, with the CDC in early October dropping its COVID-19 travel notices for individual countries.

To get all the up-to-date travel news at your fingertips, download the free TPG App .

TPG is here to guide you through the latest in these updated rules and regulations. To make sure you have the most current information, please follow the provided links to government, tourism, U.S. Embassy and U.S. State Department websites for the most recent updates.

North America

As of June 12, travelers arriving by air to the U.S. no longer need to present results of a negative COVID-19 test taken within one day of their flight. However, all noncitizen and nonresident travelers need to show proof of full vaccination to enter the U.S.

Related: US dropping international COVID-19 testing requirement

The U.S., which reopened to fully vaccinated international travelers on Nov. 8, 2021, still requires all arriving air passengers to provide contact tracing information to their airline. Current details on requirements for entering the U.S.can be found on the CDC's website .

All U.S. states are open and proof-of-vaccination requirements for many indoor activities in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston and other cities have ended.

On March 26, Hawaii ended restrictions for domestic travelers, but international arrivals are still subject to the U.S. government's vaccination rules.

Related: Traveling to Hawaii just got a whole lot easier

Masks are no longer required in public spaces. On April 18, a federal judge vacated the executive order President Joe Biden signed soon after taking office in late January 2021 that mandated the wearing of masks on federal property and domestic public transportation , including planes, buses, subways, trains, airports and train stations. Mask-wearing is optional in airports, on airplanes and on certain other public transportation. New York in early September changed its own public transportation mask mandate on subways, buses and shared rides to recommended from required.

The CDC has updated its domestic travel guidance for fully vaccinated travelers, but still strongly advises unvaccinated individuals to test before and after travel within the U.S. Check the CDC website for the latest updates.

Long-standing U.S. restrictions on visitors , including a ban on tourists driving into the country from Canada and Mexico, were lifted on Nov. 8, 2021, but only for fully vaccinated travelers (at least 14 days past their final dose). The vaccination requirement does not include children under the age of 18.

As of Oct. 1, all COVID-19-related entry restrictions for all international visitors to Canada have been eased. Proof of vaccination is no longer required and the electronic ArriveCAN form has been discontinued.

Canada had previously ended its pre-travel testing requirements on April 1 and the rule, in effect since Nov. 30, 2021, that all passengers age 12 and older traveling domestically in Canada by air or by rail need to be fully vaccinated was suspended on June 20.

Find the latest updates here .

Quebec requires anyone seeking to buy alcohol or cannabis at a province-run store to be fully vaccinated.

Fully vaccinated Canadians are again able to enter the U.S. via a land crossing at the border as of Nov. 8, 2021.

For more information and updates, visit the U.S. Embassy in Canada website .

The U.S. Department of State's travel advisory for Canada is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions.

Mexico has never required testing for entry and has lifted most coronavirus restrictions.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Mexico , travelers entering Mexico via land may be subject to health screenings, including temperature checks. Travelers may experience significant delays and face the possibility of being returned to the U.S. or quarantined in Mexico.

An increase in crime against tourists in Cancun and Riviera Maya made the U.S. Consulate General in Merida issue a security alert for Americans traveling in the region in January 2022. Crime in many regions of Mexico is high. The U.S. consulate classifies Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas as "Do Not Travel" states.

The U.S.-Mexico land border reopened on Nov. 8, 2021, and fully vaccinated travelers are once again allowed to enter the U.S. from Mexico by land. Proof of vaccination is not required for U.S. citizens, but international travelers are required to be vaccinated.

The State Department's advisory for Mexico is now broken down state by state due to threats of crime and kidnapping .

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico , an unincorporated territory of the U.S., is open to all international travelers, although non- U.S. citizens or permanent residents must present proof of vaccination against COVID-19.

As of March 10, all domestic travelers (U.S. citizens and residents), both vaccinated and unvaccinated, no longer need to provide proof of a negative pre-travel COVID-19 test result to enter Puerto Rico.

International visitors must be fully vaccinated. However, the U.S. rule that required all those arriving by air to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken one day before entry ended on June 12.

All capacity restrictions have also ended. Masks are no longer required in indoor public places, but are recommended on public transportation and when vaccination status cannot be guaranteed. Masks are now optional (as of Oct. 1) at events with more than 1,000 people and attendees are no longer required to provide updated proof of vaccination.

For the latest updates, check here .

Related: Your points and miles guide to Puerto Rico

U.S. Virgin Islands

The U.S. Virgin Islands , which includes St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix, has been open to tourism since Sept. 19, 2020. As of June 1 , all travelers, whether fully vaccinated or not, no longer need to provide proof of a pre-travel negative test to enter (the test requirement had been dropped for vaccinated domestic travelers as of March 7).

International travelers must still adhere to the U.S. entry requirement that they be fully vaccinated to visit the USVI. Details can be found here .

Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda reopened to tourists on June 4, 2020, and the government's travel advisory as of Aug. 29 lifted all remaining COVID-19 protocols for entry by air and sea. Check for updates here .

Mask-wearing in certain public settings is recommended.

Per the U.S. Embassy for the Eastern Caribbean , the U.S. State Department's advisory for Antigua is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Anguilla is once again welcoming all international visitors with no COVID-19 entry restrictions in place. The island, which began welcoming preapproved travelers on May 25, 2021, as of Oct. 1 has dropped approval and pre-travel testing requirements for unvaccinated travelers; vaccinated travelers had already been allowed to enter without pre-travel testing since Aug. 8.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Anguilla is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions . Visit the U.S. Embassy in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean , which oversees Anguilla, for additional information.

As of March 19, Aruba has relaxed its COVID-19 testing requirements and no longer requires proof of vaccination or a negative test to enter. However, all visitors must still complete an online embarkation/disembarkation card process within 72 to four hours prior to travel. The questionnaire asks for identifying information, including passport details. The form also includes a section where visitors can input their travel plans and answer health questions. Travelers must also download the Aruba Health app as part of the ED card process. Find details here .

Aruba reopened to tourists in the summer of 2020 and American visitors were welcomed back on July 10, 2020. U.S. travelers to Aruba previously had to purchase visitors insurance to cover up to $75,000 in health insurance, but the requirement has been discontinued as of July 8.

Visitors must carry a mask with them and wear one in businesses that require them. As of Feb. 17, all other safety measures have been eased.

Visit the U.S. Consulate General in Curacao , which oversees Aruba, for additional information. The U.S. State Department's advisory for Aruba is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

For the latest updates related to travel, check Visit Aruba's entry requirements page.

The Bahamas is fully open and as of Sept. 20, all COVID-19 entry restrictions have been lifted, including the need to apply for a Bahamas Health Visa. Details can be found here .

Check the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas for additional info. The U.S. State Department's advisory for the Bahamas is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Barbados, which reopened to international travelers in July, 2020, as of Sept. 22 has ended all official COVID-19 entry protocols. Masks are also now optional. Find details here .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Barbados is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions . Check the website of the U.S. Embassy in Barbados for additional information.

Bermuda , which reopened to travelers on July 1, 2020, has ended its pre-travel authorization and pre-travel negative test requirements and as of Nov. 14 visitors only need to fill out an electronic Bermuda Arrival Card , which was in place before the pandemic.

Complete details are available here .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Bermuda is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

More information on the coronavirus in Bermuda can be found here .

Americans are welcome to visit Bonaire. As of April 20, proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result is no longer required for entry.

For the latest details, check here .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Bonaire is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions . For more information, visit the website of the U.S. Consulate General in Curacao , which oversees Bonaire.

British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands officially reopened to tourism on Dec. 1, 2020, and as of July 15, 2022, visitors are no longer required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test to enter, even if unvaccinated. Proof of health insurance valid in the British Virgin Islands is also no longer required.

Complete details on travel requirements and restrictions can be found here .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for the British Virgin Islands is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions . Check the U.S. Embassy in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean , which oversees the British Virgin Islands, for additional information.

Cayman Islands

As of Aug. 24, there are no longer any COVID-19 protocols for all travelers, whether vaccinated or unvaccinated, to enter the Cayman Islands and approval via the Cayman Travel Portal has been suspended. Details are here .

The Cayman Islands had been welcoming fully vaccinated tourists since it entered Phase 5 of its reopening on Jan. 20. Cruise tourism resumed on March 21.

Related: After a 2-year absence, cruise ships are returning to the Cayman Islands

The U.S. State Department's advisory for the Cayman Islands is Level 3: Reconsider Travel .

Cuba began welcoming international tourists back Nov. 15, 2021 , and as of April 6, 2022, neither a negative COVID-19 test nor proof of full vaccination is required for entry. Tourists are not required to quarantine but should have medical insurance valid in Cuba and they need to complete a health declaration form prior to travel.

The U.S. State Department has a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution advisory in place for Cuba. Politics limits Americans' travel to Cuba more than COVID-19. Long-standing travel restrictions were tightened by the U.S. government in late 2019, eliminating many of the reasons Americans were allowed to visit Cuba in recent years. For information on exemptions that allow Americans to travel to Cuba, visit the U.S. Embassy in Cuba's COVID-19 page and "Traveling to Cuba" page .

There are a number of additional restrictions for U.S. travelers visiting Cuba that are not related to the pandemic, and which remain active.

Curacao reopened to U.S. tourists in November 2020. All travelers are required to complete a digital immigration card before departure, but as of June 2, there are no other pre-travel testing requirements for all international visitors. Details are here .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Curacao is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions . Visit the U.S. Consulate General in Curacao' s website for additional information.

Dominica has been open to travelers since Aug. 3, 2020, and as of Aug. 22, all COVID-19-related entry protocols have been dropped. Visitors no longer need to fill out a pre-travel questionnaire or present proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Dominica is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

For more information, see the U.S. Embassy for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean 's website and Dominica's travel advisory .

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic reopened July 1, 2020 and all travelers are currently welcome to visit, with no pre-travel COVID-19 entry requirements.

Related: How to book a trip to the Dominican Republic using points and miles

As of April 23, travelers no longer need to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result to enter and random tests at the airport have ended. The use of masks and social distancing measures in public spaces is now up to the individual. Check for updates here .

All travelers must still fill out and submit an electronic entry ticket (for both arrival into and departure from the Dominican Republic) to declare they have not felt any COVID-19-related symptoms in the last 72 hours and provide contact details for the next 30 days.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for the island is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Grenada began reopening to foreign tourists on Aug. 1, 2020, with strict protocols, including quarantine, in place for all visitors. But as of April 4, 2022, Grenada has removed all COVID-19-related entry requirements and restrictions for both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers.

Complete details can be found here .

For more information, check the U.S. Embassy in the Eastern Caribbean's COVID-19 page for Grenada . The U.S. State Department's advisory for Grenada is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Haiti — which suffered political and social turmoil following the assassination of its president, Jovenel Moise, on July 7, 2021, as well as a 7.2 magnitude earthquake two weeks later — has reopened its borders to regular international passenger traffic. It has also opened its land borders with the Dominican Republic.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Haiti , as of April 18, all travelers to Haiti age 12 and older will need to present either a vaccination card proving full vaccination or proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours of travel to their airline; proof of prior COVID-19 infection (a positive test and documentation from the attending physician) is also allowed. Passengers ages 5-11 must only present a negative test result.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Haiti is Level 4: Do Not Travel .

Jamaica officially reopened for tourism on June 15, 2020, and as of April 16, 2022, passengers no longer need to present proof of a negative COVID-19 test to board their flight to Jamaica.

For faster processing upon arrival at the airport, travelers are encouraged to submit their Immigration/Customs C5 card online anytime before arrival. If the card has not been submitted online, passengers may complete the paper form issued in flight by the airline.

Visit the U.S. Embassy in Jamaica's website for additional information. The U.S. State Department's advisory for Jamaica is Level 3: Reconsider Travel .

Americans can visit Martinique for tourism — and as of Aug. 1 there are no COVID-19-related entry requirements for any traveler, according to the U.S. Embassy for the Eastern Caribbean .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Martinique is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Americans can visit St. Barts for tourism — and as of Aug. 1 there are no COVID-19-related entry requirements for any traveler, according to the U.S. Embassy for the Eastern Caribbean .

Check here for additional information about traveling to the island.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for St. Barts is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

St. Kitts and Nevis

As of Aug. 15, all travelers are allowed to enter St. Kitts and Nevis without any COVID-19-related restrictions. The only pre-travel requirement is an immigration and customs form .

Details can be found here .

Americans can now stay anywhere on the island, where options include the Park Hyatt St. Kitts , the Four Seasons Nevis and the St. Kitts Marriott Resort.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for St. Kitts and Nevis is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

As of Sept. 5, St. Lucia has dropped all previous COVID-19-related entry protocols for both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers; although, all visitors must complete and have a printed and signed copy of the St. Lucia Health Screening form .

Immediate access to all on-island activities is now available to both fully vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers. Unvaccinated travelers had previously been required to vacation in place at certified properties for the first seven days of their visit.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for St. Lucia is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

For further details, visit the international arrivals page on the St. Lucia Tourism website and the U.S. Embassy in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean's website .

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

St. Vincent and the Grenadines began reopening on July 1, 2020 and as of Sept. 18, all COVID-19-related entry protocols have been lifted. Details are here .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for St. Vincent and the Grenadines is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions. Check the website of the U.S. Embassy in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean and Discover St. Vincent and the Grenadines for updates.

St. Maarten

Dutch St. Maarten ended all COVID-19-related entry requirements as of Nov. 1 and is welcoming U.S. and other travelers arriving at Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) without the need for proof of vaccination, testing or electronic authorization. Details are here.

Tourists can also cross the border from Dutch St. Maarten to French Saint-Martin .

The U.S. State Department advisory is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions for both Dutch St. Maarten and French Saint-Martin.

Trinidad and Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago issued a stay-at-home order in late March 2020 and banned tourists. The country's borders reopened on July 17, 2021, and as of July 1, 2022, pre-travel testing is no longer required for entry.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Trinidad and Tobago is Level 3: Reconsider Travel . Check the U.S. Embassy in Trinidad & Tobago website for updates.

Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos, a group of 40 low-lying coral islands popular with tourists in the Caribbean, began welcoming international visitors to Providenciales International Airport (PLS) on July 22, 2020. This British overseas territory includes the island of Providenciales, also known as Provo.

Turks and Caicos currently requires all visitors 18 years of age or older to be fully vaccinated, meaning 14 days must have passed after receiving a single-dose vaccine or a second dose of a two-dose vaccine. Vaccines currently approved are Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson and others.

To show proof of vaccination, you'll need to provide a digital or paper vaccination record, including the CDC-issued card, or a vaccination letter signed by a medical professional (physician or registered nurse with license number) or one printed from an electronic vaccination database.

Related: Turks and Caicos to require vaccination

As of May 1, travelers to Turks and Caicos are no longer required to present proof of a negative COVID-19 pre-travel test, show proof of medical insurance valid for the treatment of COVID-19 in Turks and Caicos or obtain travel pre-authorization. Masks are no longer required in public places.

For the latest information, visit the Turks and Caicos tourism website and check the website of the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas , which oversees Turks and Caicos.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Turks and Caicos is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Related: Why I love Turks and Caicos

Europe continues to experience COVID-19 waves, although almost all countries have relaxed COVID-19-related entry restrictions and dropped vaccination or testing requirements to access indoor spaces such as restaurants, hotels and museums. The European Council recommended in late February 2022 that its member countries open more broadly to travelers from outside the European Union; by late October, when Spain finally ended its entry requirements, most countries had dropped all COVID-19-related entry requirements for travelers.

The Albanian government reopened for tourism on July 1, 2020, and Americans can visit, according to the U.S. Embassy in Albania .

Effective May 1, 2022, Albania repealed all COVID-19-related entry and public health measures, per the U.S. Embassy.

The U.S. State Department's travel advisory for Albania is now Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Armenia is open to Americans, according to the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan . As of early May, the country no longer requires proof of vaccination or a pre-travel negative test to enter the country.

The U.S. State Department's travel advisory for Armenia is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

As of May 16, Austria no longer requires visitors from any country to be vaccinated, recovered or tested.

Information can be found here .

As of June 1, FFP2 or KN95 face masks are no longer required on public transportation and in essential shops and pharmacies — but in Vienna, they remain compulsory on public transportation and in pharmacies. For details on current restrictions, check here .

Check the U.S. Embassy in Austria for additional information. The U.S. State Department's advisory for Austria is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

According to the U.S. Embassy in Azerbaijan , as of June 21, 2021, U.S. citizens can fly to Azerbaijan. Entry by land is not permitted, however, and all travelers over the age of 18 must have proof of vaccination or proof of immunity from a previous infection (the testing requirement was eliminated as of April 14, 2022).

The country is under special restrictions through at least Jan. 1, 2023, to require proof of vaccination for those 18 and older to enter indoor venues, including restaurants, cafes and malls. Masks, however, are no longer required as of May 1.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Azerbaijan is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Belarus is on the front lines of the Russia-Ukraine war. The country has also been in the midst of a popular uprising against Alexander Lukashenko, called the "last dictator in Europe."

The U.S. State Department's advisory for the country is Level 4: Do Not Travel ("due to the arbitrary enforcement of laws, the risk of detention, the Russian military attack on neighboring Ukraine, and the buildup of Russian military in Belarus along the border with Ukraine").

It isn't wise to visit — the embassy has suspended operations in Minsk and has asked Americans to depart Belarus if they are there — but the country bordering Russia and Ukraine is open. According to the U.S. Embassy in Belarus , America is on a list of countries that were allowed to enter as of Aug. 15, 2020, but only through Minsk National Airport (MSQ). Land borders are closed to American travelers.

Americans require a visa. A COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours is also required and unvaccinated travelers must self-quarantine for seven days — and complete the full quarantine in Belarus. Travelers also need to fill out a health questionnaire and submit to temperature and health checks on arrival.

Note: On June 29, 2021, the U.S. Department of Transportation prohibited the sale of direct passenger air transportation, including tickets booked through one airline that contain flights operated by multiple airlines, between the U.S. and Belarus. Once this order becomes final, only direct air transportation deemed to be in the national interest of the U.S., including on humanitarian or national security grounds, will be allowed, per the U.S. Embassy.

As of May 23, Belgium has lifted entry restrictions for all travelers, except those from "Very High-Risk" countries — but as of early December, no countries are categorized as such.

That means all Americans, whether they are vaccinated or not, can travel to Belgium without the need to test or quarantine, according to the Embassy and Consulates of Belgium in the U.S .

Further information can be found here and on the U.S. Embassy in Belgium's website .

Belgium had also instituted social distancing restrictions, which are being reduced. For more information, check the country's current measures .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Belgium is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Americans can travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina and, according to the U.S. Embassy , as of May 16 all COVID-19-related restrictions have been removed for all visitors.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Bosnia and Herzegovina is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Americans can enter Bulgaria for tourism, per the U.S. Embassy in Bulgaria .

According to the embassy, as of May 1, all COVID-19-related entry restrictions have been lifted and all travelers to Bulgaria no longer need to provide vaccination or testing documents.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Bulgaria is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

U.S. travelers can visit Croatia — and as of early May, there are no longer any vaccination or testing requirements for entry, per the U.S. Embassy in Croatia .

The U.S. Embassy does note that entry requirements are subject to change at any time without notice and that the Croatian Border Police have final authority regarding entry into Croatia.

Croatia no longer requires that masks be worn in indoor public spaces, with the exception of health care facilities.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Croatia is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Cyprus, a small island nation off the coast of Turkey, is now open to all international visitors and all previous COVID-19-related entry protocols ended on June 1.

As of July 8 , masks are required in certain indoor areas, including public transportation, for those over 12 years old.

Check the U.S. Embassy in Cyprus for additional information.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Cyprus is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Czech Republic

As of April 9, the Czech Republic has suspended all entry restrictions related to COVID-19. This means Americans can visit for tourism, whether they are vaccinated or not. Details can be found here and here . You can also check the U.S. Embassy in the Czech Republic website .

Direct flights between the U.S. and the Czech Republic resumed this summer on Delta Air Lines.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for the Czech Republic is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

As of March 29, there are no longer any COVID-19-related restrictions for entering Denmark . Americans, whether they are vaccinated or not, can travel there for tourism.

Denmark also dropped all COVID-19-related restrictions within the country as of Feb. 1, although private businesses and cultural institutions may continue to require certain things and there will be recommendations for the use of masks and "corona passports" in certain limited situations. Face masks are no longer required in Danish airports.

Updates to travel restrictions for Denmark can be found here . You can also visit the U.S. Embassy in Denmark for additional information.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Denmark is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Estonia reopened to Americans as of June 21, 2021, according to the U.S. Embassy in Estonia, including for tourism. As of early July 2022, Estonia has lifted all COVID-19-related entry restrictions. See details here .

Masks are recommended in indoor public spaces.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Estonia is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Americans can visit Finland for tourism and all COVID-19-related border restrictions ended as of June 30, per the Visit Finland tourism board .

Check the U.S. Embassy in Finland for additional information. The U.S. State Department's advisory for Finland is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

As of Aug. 1, all COVID-19-related entry requirements for France have been dropped. This includes proof of COVID-19 vaccination and a negative test result.

Updates to entry restrictions can be found here .

Check the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in France for additional updates. The U.S. State Department's advisory for France is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Americans are welcome in the country of Georgia, according to the U.S. Embassy in Georgia, and proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative pre-travel test is no longer required. Proof of health insurance valid in Georgia is recommended.

The U.S. State Department's current advisory for Georgia is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions.

Germany has welcomed all Americans (except those who are residents of China due to reciprocity) since June 20, 2021. As of June 11, 2022, the German government has dropped all COVID-19-related vaccination and testing requirements for entry.

Related: Germany drops COVID-19 travel requirements

Check the U.S. Embassy in Germany or the German Federal Foreign Office for additional information.

Masks are still required on public transportation through at least Jan. 1, 2023.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Germany is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Greece began welcoming U.S. travelers on April 19, 2021. As of May 1, 2022, all travelers to Greece are no longer required to present a vaccination certificate, proof of recovery from COVID-19 or proof of a negative PCR or antigen test. Details can be found here .

As of March 15, 2022, it is also no longer mandatory to complete an online passenger locator form, but filling out a simplified version of the form is recommended.

Face masks are only required on public transportation.

Check the U.S. Embassy in Greece website for additional information.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Greece is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

As of March 7, Hungary ended all COVID-19-related travel restrictions for travelers , including Americans, according to the U.S. Embassy in Hungary .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Hungary is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Iceland is welcoming U.S. travelers — and as of Feb. 25, there are no longer any testing or vaccination requirements to enter from any country.

Related: Iceland lifts all COVID-19 restrictions

Read the latest updates on Icelandair's website and check the U.S. Embassy in Iceland for additional information.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Iceland is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Related: 9 reasons you should visit Iceland

As of March 6, Ireland has dropped all COVID-19-related entry requirements for both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers; completing a passenger locator form is also no longer required.

Updates on traveling to Ireland are here . Details on loosened restrictions within Ireland can be found here and here .

Masks are no longer required but are still recommended on public transportation and in health care settings.

For additional information, visit the U.S. Mission Ireland's website .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Ireland is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Italy is open for tourism — and as of June 1, both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers can enter without any COVID-19 vaccination or testing restrictions.

All passengers traveling to Italy had been required to fill out the EU Digital Passenger Locator Form , but that requirement ended on May 1.

In addition, as of June 1 proof of vaccination (the "Green Pass") is no longer required to visit museums, dine in restaurants, use public transportation and access most other indoor venues. Masks are recommended but no longer required on public transport.

Check the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Italy website for additional information. The latest updates by Italy's Ministry of Foreign Affairs can be found here .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Italy is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Kosovo has reopened its borders to Americans and Prishtina International Airport (PRN) is open. According to the U.S. Embassy in Kosovo , as of May 1, travelers can enter Kosovo without proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test, but the embassy says that travelers should bring their vaccination certificate with them because it is still required to enter certain indoor spaces.

The embassy also notes: "Airlines, transit points, and destination countries impose a patchwork of different testing requirements and airlines may refuse boarding for some passengers (including U.S. citizens and Kosovo residents). Airlines have the sole authority to decide who they allow to board their aircraft. Generally, pre-travel testing is recommended."

To dine inside restaurants or enter museums, malls or public institutions, anyone over the age of 16 must show evidence of vaccination or a negative PCR or rapid antigen test.

The U.S. State Department's advisory is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Americans can visit Latvia and, according to the U.S. Embassy in Latvia , the country ended entry protocols for travelers from non-high-risk countries as of April 1. Currently, the U.S. is not on the high-risk list and Americans can visit whether they are vaccinated or not without the need to pretest or register.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Latvia is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Liechtenstein

Switzerland handles immigration and customs matters for Liechtenstein, meaning that as long as you are qualified to enter Switzerland , you are able to enter Liechtenstein since there's an open border between the two countries.

All Americans had been allowed in for tourism as of June 28, 2021, according to the U.S. Embassy, and as of May 2, 2022, all Americans, no matter their vaccination status, can enter Liechtenstein without any pandemic-related measures.

Travelers can check their eligibility to enter Switzerland and Liechtenstein at the countries' online Travelcheck . They can also check with the Swiss Embassy in Washington, D.C .

All COVID-19-related restrictions for businesses and public transportation have been lifted. Details are here .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Liechtenstein is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Americans can visit Lithuania for any purpose, and as of May 1, according to the U.S. Embassy in Lithuania , all COVID-19-related entry requirements have been lifted.

Information on entry to Lithuania can be found here . Information about the current restrictions and recommendations can be found on the Ministry of Health's webpage .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Lithuania is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

According to the U.S. Embassy in Luxembourg , as of Oct. 1, all travelers from the U.S., regardless of their vaccination status, can enter Luxembourg.

Details on travel to Luxembourg are available here .

Masks and CovidCheck are no longer required for entrance to bars, restaurants, stores or on public transportation (only for hospitals and nursing homes). Read more about Luxembourg's restrictions here .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Luxembourg is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

There are no COVID-19-related travel requirements in place for entering Malta.

Details are available on the Ministry of Health website .

Masks are now required only in certain settings such as hospitals and care homes.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Malta is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions.

As of March 16, Moldova has lifted all COVID-19-related entry restrictions and Americans are permitted to enter Moldova.

Check the U.S. Embassy in Moldova's website and the Moldovan Border Police website for more information. Face masks are now recommended but not required in all indoor public spaces.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Moldova is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

According to the Monaco government's COVID-19 website , as of Aug. 12, access to the principality of Monaco is no longer subject to the presentation of a health pass/vaccination certificate.

France , which dropped all COVID-19-related entry protocols on Aug. 1, handles immigration and customs for Monaco.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for France and Monaco is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Montenegro is open to Americans and the U.S. Embassy in Montenegro notes that as of March 11, no proof of vaccination, COVID-19 passports/certificates or COVID-19 tests are required to enter Montenegro.

Face masks must be worn on all public transportation and in hospitals and collective accommodations.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Montenegro is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

The Netherlands

The Netherlands lifted all remaining COVID-19 entry restrictions as of Sept. 17, meaning all international travelers can visit without proof of vaccination required.

Visit the U.S. Embassy in the Netherlands for additional information and the latest updates from the government of The Netherlands can be found here and here .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for the Netherlands is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

North Macedonia

North Macedonia is now open to all tourists, including Americans, with no testing or vaccination requirements, according to the U.S. Embassy in North Macedonia .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for North Macedonia is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

As of Feb. 12, Norway's travel restrictions have been lifted. The same rules as prior to the COVID-19 pandemic now apply. There are no requirements for testing, quarantine or registration upon arrival in Norway, according to the U.S. Embassy in Norway .

Detailed information about travel to Norway and national and local COVID-19 prevention measures are available on Health Norway's website .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Norway is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

As of March 28, Poland has lifted all vaccination and testing requirements for all arriving travelers, including those from outside the EU/Schengen Area. All U.S. citizens are now permitted to visit.

Details and updates can be found here .

Check with the U.S. Embassy ; additional information is available here .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Poland is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

As of July 1, Portugal has dropped all COVID-19-related vaccination and testing restrictions and U.S. travelers can visit without any pre-travel requirements.

More information is available at Visit Portugal and through the U.S. Embassy in Portugal .

Masks are required on public transportation and in health care facilities and nursing homes.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Portugal is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

As of March 9, Romania has lifted all COVID-19-related entry restrictions, according to the U.S. Embassy in Romania , and foreign citizens entering Romania no longer need proof of vaccination or a negative test result.

Travelers planning to visit Romania can also check the Embassy of Romania in Washington, D.C. , for updates.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Romania is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Travel to Russia is not advised due to the invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces, which has limited international transportation options as airlines have canceled flights to and from the country. In addition, most cruise lines have canceled scheduled port calls on St. Petersburg .

The Russian government requires that all foreign travelers present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test result upon arrival, dated within two days prior to arrival in Russia, along with completion of a digital form that must be printed out and presented to customs in Russia.

The U.S. Embassy in Moscow advises U.S. citizens not to travel to Russia as the country's infrastructure has been unsettled by global sanctions imposed since the Ukraine invasion and because Russia is one of the countries "most affected" by COVID-19. Cases and deaths have surged, hitting record highs through mid-February.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Russia is Level 4: Do Not Travel .

As of May 3, all travelers entering Serbia no longer need to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test, according to the U.S. Embassy in Serbia . Most pandemic-related restrictions have gradually been lifted.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Serbia is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

According to the U.S. Embassy in Slovakia , as of April 6, all COVID-19-related requirements for entry to Slovakia are canceled, regardless of vaccination status, and Americans are allowed to visit for tourism.

As of April 23, most social restrictions were ended and masks are no longer required in public spaces other than health care settings.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Slovakia is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Slovenia has ended its RVT (recovered, vaccinated or tested) rule for entry, according to the Slovenian Tourist Board . Additional information is available here .

Check the U.S. Embassy in Slovenia website for additional information.

All travelers entering Slovenia by air or sea still need to fill out a digital passenger locator form .

The State Department's advisory for Slovenia is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

On Oct. 21, Spain dropped all remaining COVID-19-related entry requirements , becoming one of the last countries in Europe to do so.

Further details can be found here or on the U.S. Embassy in Spain's website .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Spain is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

As of April 1, Sweden has lifted all COVID-19-related entry restrictions and bans. Those traveling to the country do not require proof of vaccination or a negative test, according to the Swedish Border Police .

The U.S. Embassy in Sweden also has information on traveling to Sweden.

As of Feb. 9, Sweden has dropped all domestic COVID-19-related restrictions, including the wearing of face masks on public transit and capacity limits and vaccine requirements for restaurants.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Sweden is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Switzerland

According to the U.S. Embassy in Switzerland , as of May 2, 2022, all Americans, vaccinated or not, can visit Switzerland without any COVID-19-related protocols.

Travelers can check their eligibility to enter Switzerland at the country's online Travelcheck . They can also check with the Swiss Embassy in Washington, D.C .

All COVID-19-related restrictions for business and public transportation have also been lifted as of May 2. Details are here .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Switzerland is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Turkey's international borders are open for travelers from a number of countries, including the U.S., according to the U.S. Embassy in Turkey .

As of June 1, Turkey has dropped all COVID-19-related entry requirements, so proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test is no longer required.

The Turkish Ministry of Health announced on March 2 that masks are no longer required outdoors and indoors if air circulation and social distancing are adequate. Restaurants are open without restrictions.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Turkey is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Due to the heavy and sustained armed war with Russia within Ukraine, as well as the government's state of emergency and COVID-19, any travel to Ukraine at this time is not advised. Those U.S. citizens currently in Ukraine should depart immediately, per the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine .

All U.S. citizens age 12 and older who choose to enter Ukraine from the U.S. or another "Red Zone" country must present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR or rapid antigen test taken within 72 hours of arrival; or, they can present a document confirming the receipt of a full course of vaccination against COVID-19 with vaccines on the WHO's list of approved vaccines.

U.S. citizens traveling to Ukraine must also demonstrate that they have medical insurance covering all expenses related to COVID-19 treatment while in Ukraine.

Since Aug. 5, 2021, all foreign tourists over 18 years old who have not been vaccinated must self-isolate for 10 days and monitor such via the Vdoma mobile app, to be shortened by testing negative within three days. Quarantine is not required if you are in the country for less than 72 hours.

Mask-wearing is mandatory on public transportation and in indoor public spaces.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Ukraine is Level 4: Do Not Travel .

United Kingdom

As of March 18, the United Kingdom has lifted all COVID-19-related entry requirements, so U.S. travelers no longer need to show proof of vaccination, recovery or a negative test to enter. The need to fill out an online passenger locator pass has also ended.

All four nations that comprise the U.K. have separate COVID-19 regulations: England's are here , Scotland's are here , Northern Ireland's are here and Wales' are here ..

The U.S. State Department's advisory for the U.K. is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Visit the U.S. Embassy in the United Kingdom for regular updates.

Central America

Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE) reopened on Aug. 15, 2020, and the return of tourism began on Oct. 1, 2020, with travel requirements in place. But as of July 12, Americans and all international visitors are welcome to visit Belize without any vaccination or testing requirements required. As of April 1, the country also removed all remaining in-country COVID-19-related restrictions, including mask mandates. Details are available here .

All travelers to Belize are advised to purchase local travel health insurance ($18 per person for a visit lasting up to 21 days) from Belize Travel Insurance , but it is not required.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Belize is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Costa Rica — which reopened to Americans on Nov. 1, 2020 — repealed its COVID-19-related entry requirements as of April 1, 2022. Details can be found here .

Most businesses are open and face masks are recommended but no longer mandatory in all indoor public settings. Beaches are open and national parks are welcoming visitors at 100% capacity.

Travelers can also check the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica website for information.

The U.S. State Department's travel advisory for Costa Rica is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

El Salvador

The country of El Salvador reopened for commercial flights to Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport (SAL) in San Salvador on Sept. 19, 2020.

Local businesses are open with no restrictions. According to the U.S. Embassy in El Salvador , as of Nov. 17, 2021, the government of El Salvador removed the COVID-19 test and/or vaccination requirements for entry. Travelers are advised to confirm with their airlines that the airline understands and has implemented this change to avoid complications at their departure airport.

The country has said arriving passengers will face temperature checks. A curfew is currently not in place and there are no quarantine requirements for visitors.

The U.S. State Department's travel advisory for El Salvador is Level 3: Reconsider Travel .

Guatemala began slowly reopening to tourism on Sept. 18, 2020, and La Aurora International Airport (GUA) is accepting international arrivals. As of Aug. 12, the country removed all COVID-19-related entry protocols, according to the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala .

Upon arrival, travelers must pass through health checkpoints and masks are required in some public settings.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Guatemala is Level 3: Reconsider Travel .

Honduras reopened for tourists from all countries on Aug. 17, 2020, with its international airports in operation. Spirit Airlines has resumed service from Fort Lauderdale and Houston, and American Airlines is flying from Miami.

Entering visitors must complete a government registration form and print it, as well as present their original vaccination certificate indicating they are 14 days or more past completing their vaccination or proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR or rapid antigen test taken within 72 hours of check-in at the airport. They will also be required to sign an affidavit and complete customs forms.

Updates on guidelines can be found on the U.S. Embassy in Honduras website .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Honduras is Level 3: Reconsider Travel .

Nicaragua never really shut down. There were never any stay-at-home or social distancing orders and there are continued questions about how many cases Nicaragua actually has had. In addition, only limited flights from the U.S. have resumed (on Avianca and Copa).

The U.S. Embassy in Nicaragua notes that U.S. travelers are allowed to enter Nicaragua, and proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of travel is required for entry. Travelers should also be prepared for additional health screenings and may be asked to produce their negative test results. Anyone entering Nicaragua from a country with a known yellow fever risk must also show proof of vaccination at least 10 days prior to arrival.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Nicaragua is Level 3: Reconsider Travel .

Panama reopened its airport in late August 2020 and tourism resumed on Oct. 12, 2020. The country lifted all remaining COVID-19 entry restrictions for travelers on Sept. 16. Details are available here .

As of July 11, face masks are required only on public transportation and in hospital and health care settings.

The U.S. Embassy in Panama notes on its website that the U.S. State Department has issued a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution advisory.

South America

Argentina had one of the world's strictest travel bans, restricting all international visitors until Nov. 1, 2021, when fully vaccinated foreigners (including Americans) were allowed to enter the country. As of early April 2022, all international visitors are welcome, without the need to be vaccinated or tested. See details here .

Visit the U.S. Embassy in Argentina for additional information.

The U.S. State Department advisory for Argentina is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Bolivia had been off-limits to tourists, but the country is now open to visitors, according to the U.S. Embassy in Bolivia , with a notation that travelers should be prepared for additional travel restrictions affecting international travel to be put into effect with little or no advance notice.

U.S. citizens will need to obtain a tourist visa ($160 and valid for 30 days).

Entry rules now require travelers to Bolivia, regardless of their country of origin, to present either a COVID-19 vaccination certificate or submit proof of a certified negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of their flight or a negative antigen test taken within 48 hours (children 5 years old and younger are exempt).

Face masks are required in some public spaces.

The U.S. Embassy reports that commercial flights have resumed — Boliviana de Aviacion has flights between La Paz and Miami — but travelers should expect that additional restrictions affecting international travel could be put in place with little advance notice.

The U.S. State Department's travel advisory for Bolivia is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Brazil, a large and populous country, has had the most coronavirus cases in South America. As of Sept. 12, all international travelers, both fully vaccinated and those who are unvaccinated with a negative pre-travel test, are welcome to visit Brazil. Details can be found here .

Fully vaccinated travelers to Brazil are required to present proof of full vaccination to their airline. It can be electronic or printed, but proof in the form of just a QR code will not be accepted.

Unvaccinated travelers must present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test or a negative laboratory antigen test taken within one day of boarding.

Brazil no longer requires proof of health insurance for entry, but the U.S. State Department continues to recommend that all travelers purchase insurance before departing the U.S. For updates, check the U.S. Embassy in Brazil's website.

The U.S. State Department's travel advisory for Brazil is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Chile is welcoming international travelers — and proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test is once again required as of Sept. 1.

According to both the U.S. Embassy in Chile and the Chile Tourism website , any noncitizen or nonresident planning to enter Chile must do the following:

• Travelers age 18 and older to Chile need to provide proof of vaccination when boarding their flight to Chile or proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of boarding. Random testing may also occur upon or after arrival.
• Travelers visiting the remote Chilean island of Rapa Nui (Easter Island) must be fully vaccinated, have official reservations and fill out a Single Entry Form .

The U.S. State Department's travel advisory for Chile is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

American tourists can visit Colombia, where international flights resumed on Sept. 21, 2020, according to the U.S. Embassy in Colombia . As of May 1, 2022, all visitors age 18 and older need to provide proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours or a negative antigen test taken within 24 hours of their departure to Colombia.

Current requirements also call for all visitors to complete the online pre-travel registration form " Check-Mig " within 72 hours of their flight departure time. Further details are available here .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Colombia is Level 3: Reconsider Travel .

Ecuador is open for tourism, and as of Oct. 20, all COVID-19-related entry requirements for both the mainland and the Galapagos Islands have ended, per the Ecuador Tourism website . However, all visitors must still fill out an online health declaration form and visitors to the Galapagos are still required to present a "transit control card" issued by the Government of Galapagos. See details here .

The U.S. State Department's travel advisory for Ecuador is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Visit the U.S. Embassy in Ecuador website for additional information.

According to the U.S. Embassy , vaccinated Americans can visit Guyana. As of June 18, all travelers over the age of 12 must present proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (at least two weeks past their final shot). Predeparture testing is no longer required to enter Guyana.

Restaurants are open and dining is allowed at 100% capacity. Mask-wearing in public is no longer mandatory but is strongly encouraged.

The U.S. State Department's travel advisory for Guyana is Level 3: Reconsider Travel .

According to the U.S. Embassy in Paraguay , the country no longer requires proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to enter.

The embassy also says that U.S. citizens do not need a visa for visits of up to 90 days for tourism or business. Face masks are no longer mandatory, but are recommended.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Paraguay is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

The U.S. Embassy in Peru reports that direct flights from the U.S. are available and as of Nov. 1, Americans are now welcome to enter Peru without proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test result.

Check the Peru Tourism website for additional updates.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Peru is Level 3: Reconsider Travel .

Uruguay reopened to fully vaccinated international travelers on Nov. 1, 2021, and commercial flights have resumed. According to the U.S. Embassy in Uruguay , unvaccinated travelers can enter with testing. Here's what's required:

• Vaccinated travelers require proof of vaccination, but no longer require a pre-travel negative test.
• Unvaccinated travelers require proof of a negative PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours before initiating travel (minors under age 6 are exempt)
• Proof of health insurance effective in Uruguay for the duration of your stay is required for all foreign travelers entering Uruguay.

While travelers are no longer required to wear masks, the State Department recommends wearing face coverings inside crowded buildings and on public transportation.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Uruguay is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Current entry protocols require that U.S. travelers apply for and obtain a visa and all arriving air passengers must present proof of full vaccination, either with a physical card or a digital card (with a QR code). A booster dose is required if the second dose was more than 270 days prior. If unvaccinated, a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival is required. There are health screenings upon arrival, but no quarantine is currently required.

For additional information, check with the U.S. Embassy in Venezuela .

The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory .

Bangladesh requires international visitors, including those from the U.S. States, to be fully vaccinated or present proof of a negative COVID-19 test result, according to the U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh .

U.S. citizens need a valid visa or "no visa required" seal to enter. Fully vaccinated travelers do not need to present proof of a negative pre-travel test, but those age 12 and older who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of travel to Bangladesh.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Bangladesh is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Cambodia, which reopened for tourism early in 2022 now has no pre-travel testing or proof of vaccination required for visitors as of Oct. 6, according to the U.S. Embassy in Cambodia .

All travelers must obtain a visa to enter the country and are encouraged to purchase COVID-19 health insurance valid in Cambodia.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Cambodia is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

China was where COVID-19 emerged, and the country suspended entry for nearly all foreigners — including all foreign spectators for the Beijing Winter Olympics, which took place Feb. 4-20, 2022 — and slashed the volume of international passenger flights to and from the country in March 2020. An outbreak in Xian in December 2021 and January 2022 resulted in a monthlong lockdown of the city's 13 million residents and another wave in March resulted in lockdowns in Shanghai and Guangzhou. Ongoing "zero-COVID" lockdowns have resulted in protests around the country in November that the government moved quickly to suppress , later announcing an easing to the length of the lockdowns it imposes.

The State Department's travel advisory for China remains at Level 3: Reconsider Travel , mainly due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws.

Strict anti-travel measures remain in place and tourism isn't allowed. The U.S. Embassy in China says that U.S. citizens with valid resident permits and visas can enter China "under certain conditions."

The latest health notice posted by the Embassy of the People's Republic in the U.S. on Nov. 12 requires that travelers to China obtain a COVID-19 PCR (nucleic acid) test from a certified lab, taken within 48 hours of departure, and then apply for a "health code" to receive a verified "green code" to present when boarding their flight. According to the U.S. Embassy, all arriving passengers are then screened and subject to a minimum 10-day quarantine. They may also be required to install location-tracking software on their phones to access public spaces and businesses.

For additional details on requirements for traveling to China, check with the Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C., the U.S. Embassy in China and with your airline.

As of May 1, nonresident foreigners who are fully vaccinated can again enter Hong Kong, but proof of vaccination and multiple tests, both before departure and after arrival, are required.

According to the U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau , Americans can visit Hong Kong, but they must present either a record of full vaccination; a letter from a doctor certifying recovery from COVID-19 plus one dose of a recognized COVID-19 vaccine; or a letter from a doctor attesting to the traveler's inability to receive a COVID-19 vaccine due to a medical condition. Unvaccinated children under the age of 12 are permitted to enter Hong Kong when accompanying a vaccinated parent or caregiver.

As of Sept. 23, all travelers also must take a laboratory rapid antigen test within 24 hours of their flight and declare the negative result on an online Health & Quarantine Information Declaration . They must then present the generated QR code when checking in for their flight.

All mandatory hotel quarantine requirements have ended, but according to the U.S. Consulate General, upon arrival, all travelers will undergo a COVID-19 PCR test, with results available in 24 hours. They will be released immediately to begin a seven-day period of medical surveillance at their homes or accommodation. During the first three days, they will have an amber code and must avoid certain places under the Vaccine Pass scheme. During the remaining four days of medical surveillance, they will have a blue code and face no movement restrictions. On Day 2 (i.e. the day after arrival), they must undergo a PCR test at a community testing center (for free) or at a government-recognized medical facility (for a fee), and they must conduct RATs on days 1-7. A positive result on any of these tests, with accompanying COVID symptoms, will result in immediate hospitalization; a positive result with no symptoms will result in transfer to a Community Isolation Centre or COVID hotel. Please note that arriving travelers without Hong Kong cell phone numbers may have trouble receiving communications from Hong Kong health authorities concerning their COVID test results.

Complete details are available here and here .

Transit passengers are allowed as of April 1, according to Airport Authority Hong Kong. Transit passengers are international travelers who are only flying into Hong Kong in order to catch another flight. Transit passengers cannot leave the airport.

Related: Hong Kong airport to allow transit passengers as part of reopening

Additional details on entry requirements and testing for travelers are here and here . FAQ can be found here .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Hong Kong is Level 3: Reconsider Travel .

The U.S. Embassy in India notes that travel to India for tourism and other short-term purposes has resumed fully for individuals holding tourist or e-tourist visas. Valid visas, which were previously suspended due to COVID-19-related precautions, have been fully reinstated and are valid for travel until their printed expiration dates.

According to the U.S. Embassy, all international passengers age 5 and older must either present a vaccination certificate proving full vaccination (India recognizes the CDC vaccination card) or a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of travel. As of Nov. 22, it is no longer necessary to upload the certificate or test results to the Air Suvidha portal .

Passengers may be tested again upon arrival (2% will be selected at random) and must self-monitor for 14 days. U.S. citizens who must travel to India are strongly urged to get fully vaccinated before travel and continue to take personal health safety measures to protect themselves.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for India is currently Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Indonesia is open again for tourism. On Feb. 4, 2022, Bali reopened to all fully vaccinated international visitors . And now the entry protocols are the same throughout Indonesia.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Indonesia , travelers age 18 and older entering the country through airports, seaports and land borders must be fully vaccinated, but pre-travel testing is no longer required. They will undergo a symptom check upon arrival and travelers may be tested if their temperature is above 99.5 degrees. All travelers are also required to have international health insurance valid for COVID-19 treatment and medical evacuation from Indonesia and download the PeduliLindungi app.

Travelers who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons and have a letter from a medical doctor are allowed to enter, but are required to undergo a five-day quarantine. There is no quarantine for fully vaccinated travelers.

Travelers must also have a short-visit visa or other entry permit; visas upon arrival are again available.

The U.S. State Department's travel advisory for Indonesia is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Japan reopened for visa-free tourism as of Oct. 11 .

The country had banned entry by all foreign nationals on Nov. 29, 2021, in response to the omicron variant and had been closed to tourism since 2020. It first began welcoming tourists on June 10 — but only on select tours with fixed schedules and guides.

Travelers age 18 and older who are fully vaccinated must present proof of vaccination. Unvaccinated travelers are permitted to enter Japan, but they must present a negative result of a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure for Japan.

Requirements for accompanying children vary by age, with unvaccinated children age 6 to 18 required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours while unvaccinated children under six years old not requiring a test. Details are here .

All arriving travelers must also present a completed health questionnaire. As of Nov. 1, travelers to Japan can pre-register here for airport immigration, Customs and vaccination review and use the Fast Track system at major airports throughout Japan.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Japan is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

The landlocked Central Asian nation of Kazakhstan has reopened to Americans arriving via its international airports (visa-free for 30 days), according to the U.S. Embassy in Kazakhstan . International flights from Azerbaijan, China, South Korea, the Czech Republic, Germany and the United Arab Emirates have resumed.

A negative pre-travel COVID-19 PCR test is no longer required. The U.S. Embassy notes that travelers who enter with an elevated temperature will be isolated in a facility for infectious diseases.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Kazakhstan is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution . As of July 27, 2022, the U.S. Embassy in Kazakhstan advises travelers to reconsider travel to the country due to COVID-19 risk.

The U.S. Embassy in the Kyrgyz Republic says the entry ban for U.S. citizens was lifted in December 2020, but advises citizens that the country offers limited healthcare services. In the case of a COVID-19 infection, travelers might have a hard time getting the treatment they need.

Those who do visit Kyrgyzstan via airports in Bishkek, Osh and Issyk Kul no longer need to present either their original vaccine card showing full vaccination against COVID-19 or proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival. But the U.S. Embassy still recommends carrying both since requirements are subject to change with little to no notice. U.S. citizens may now enter Kyrgyzstan from land crossings in Kazakhstan, but entering from land borders with China, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan is currently prohibited.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Kyrgyzstan is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

As of May 9, fully vaccinated international travelers can enter Laos, but they must also apply for a visa, according to the U.S. Embassy in Laos . The CDC vaccination card is accepted as proof of vaccination. A negative PCR or antigen test is not required for entry.

The U.S. State Department's travel advisory for Laos is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

As of Sept. 1, passport holders of the U.S. and 40 other countries (including most of Europe, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore) can enter Macau without prior approval. They are, however, subject to the testing and quarantine requirements stipulated for all visitors. As of Nov. 13, travelers from beyond those previously stipulated may also enter if they fall into certain categories.

According to the U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau , travelers must present proof of a negative COVID-19 nucleic acid test (PCR) conducted within the past seven days, 48 hours or 24 hours, depending on their point of origin. Details can be found here .

See links on the U.S. Consulate General website for full details.

All outbound travelers from Macau must also test negative within seven days of departure.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Macau is Level 3: Reconsider Travel .

As of Aug.1, Malaysia has lifted all entry restrictions on foreign nationals, according to the U.S. Embassy in Malaysia . U.S. citizens and other non-Malaysian foreign travelers can now enter the country without proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result.

The embassy reports that arriving travelers are no longer required to download the MySejahtera app and complete the digital predeparture form, but the app should still be downloaded anyway to indicate ta traveler's risk status while in Malaysia and some businesses may ask to check the app before allowing entry.

Entry restrictions may change with little advance notice. Requirements may also vary throughout different regions of the country. The U.S. Embassy recommends checking the social media accounts of the Malaysian Ministry of Health and the Malaysian Immigration Department for the most recent updates on COVID-19 procedures.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Malaysia is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

The Maldives

Travelers to the Maldives are no longer required to present proof of a pre-travel negative test as of March 14, when the island nation's public health emergency was revoked . However, travelers (with the exception of arriving tourists and returning residents of the Maldives) are encouraged to take a PCR test between three and five days after arrival.

Related: Where you can travel with no COVID-19 test required

According to the Maldives Immigration website, travelers do not need to be vaccinated for entry. However, all international visitors, including Americans, must still complete a traveler declaration within 72 hours prior to travel. A free 30-day tourist visa will be issued upon arrival. Further details can be found here .

If a traveler tests positive or is exposed to someone with COVID-19 while visiting the Maldives, they must complete a government-mandated quarantine at their own expense.

The latest update on resort openings can be found here .

Emirates is offering connections through Dubai from major global cities including Chicago. Etihad resumed flights from Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, to the Maldives starting in July 2020. Turkish Airlines also started flights in July 2020.

Additional information can be found on the U.S. Mission to Maldives website . The U.S. State Department's advisory for the Maldives is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.

Mongolia lifted its restrictions on outbound and inbound travel in June 2021 and ended pre-travel testing requirements in March 2022, according to the U.S. Embassy in Mongolia .

U.S. citizens are allowed to visit, according to the U.S. Embassy, and do not need a visa for a stay of under 90 days (but for stays of more than 30 days, travelers are required to register and failure to do so will incur a fine of $100-$300). Passengers do not need to be vaccinated, but they must fill out a medical declaration form upon arrival.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Mongolia is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Nepal has fully reopened to tourists and as of March 10, 2022, all travelers arriving by air may now receive on-arrival visas (subject to proof of vaccination or negative test results).

According to the U.S. Embassy in Nepal , changes to restrictions and requirements can be enacted with little notice. With the March 10 changes , travelers can enter with proof of full vaccination and those who are not fully vaccinated (and older than 5 years of age) can enter by presenting proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of boarding their flight for Nepal.

For more information, check the Embassy of Nepal in Washington, D.C. , or Nepal's Department of Immigration .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Nepal is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Pakistan has reopened for Americans. However, the U.S. State Department discourages travelers from visiting Pakistan at present due to terrorism and violence .

According to the U.S. Embassy , vaccinated individuals can enter Pakistan with proof of full vaccination, while unvaccinated individuals over the age of 12 must present the results of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of boarding their flight.

Americans wishing to travel to Pakistan will need a visa.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Pakistan is Level 3: Reconsider Travel .

The Philippines

According to the U.S. Embassy in Manila , the Philippines is now granting entry to both fully vaccinated and unvaccinated visitors from countries that are permitted visa-free travel for up to 30 days, including the U.S., but when entering they must have a valid departure ticket within that time frame.

All travelers must complete a Bureau of Quarantine e-Health Declaration Card within 72 hours of travel to the Philippines to receive a QR code. Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travelers must present proof of a negative laboratory-based rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours of departure. Travelers should also expect health screenings at ports of entry in the Philippines.

Children under the age of 15 are exempt from the vaccination or testing requirements. Details can be found here .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for the Philippines is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

As of April 1, all fully vaccinated travelers (and children under 12 regardless of vaccination status) are able to enter Singapore quarantine-free via any flight. Details can be found here .

With the April 1 changes, travelers must complete an electronic SG Arrival Card and upload a digitally verifiable vaccination certificate within 72 hours of travel. Fully vaccinated adults and their accompanying children age 12 and below no longer need to provide proof of a negative predeparture COVID-19 test, but anyone age 13 and above who is unvaccinated or partially vaccinated must show proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test taken within two days of departure for Singapore.

Travel insurance covering at least $30,000 in COVID medical and quarantine costs is required. Installing and activating Singapore's TraceTogether app is also suggested.

See the Singapore Airlines website and U.S. Embassy in Singapore website for additional information.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Singapore is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

South Korea

As of Oct. 1, South Korea has eliminated pre-travel and post-arrival testing for all travelers, regardless of vaccination status.

However, visitors are encouraged to register their travel and health information in the Q-code system before departing for South Korea to speed the airport arrival process.

For Information on arrival protocols, check the Incheon Airport website . Additional details are available on the U.S. Embassy in the Republic of Korea website and on the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the USA website.

The U.S. State Department's advisory is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

All travelers to Sri Lanka can visit without quarantine as of April 20, although they need to have a valid tourist visa and mandatory local health insurance ($12 for coverage for one month).

Those who are fully vaccinated no longer need to present proof of a pre-travel negative test while unvaccinated travelers must be tested in their own country and provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of their flight or a negative antigen test taken within 48 hours.

Visit the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka website for additional updates.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Sri Lanka is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Taiwan on Sept.12 restored visa exemption for U.S passport holders and entry for Americans is now permitted.

As of Aug. 15, Taiwan has dropped the pre-travel testing requirement for entering the country. As of Oct. 13, quarantine requirements have ended but travelers must still undergo health screenings upon arrival and abide by seven days of self-initiated epidemic prevention (including staying one person per room) and use the rapid test kits given to them upon arrival as instructed.

Details can be found here . For additional information see the American Institute in Taiwan's website .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Taiwan is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Tajikistan never had a full lockdown, and most businesses, hotels and restaurants reopened on June 15, 2020.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Tajikistan , all Americans need a Tajik visa for entry (as well as government permission in advance if seeking to enter via a land border) and those age 3 and older must show a COVID-19 vaccination certificate or the results of a negative COVID-19 PCR test issued within 72 hours of arrival when boarding flights to Dushanbe International Airport (DYU). These test results must then be verified by Dushanbe authorities.

The U.S. Embassy also notes that access to medical care in the country may be limited and that "the Government of Tajikistan frequently adjusts its entry and exit requirements in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and changes to the policy are not immediately made available to the public." An unexpired visa is also required to leave Tajikistan.

The U.S. State Department's travel advisory for Tajikistan is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

As of Oct. 1, travelers to Thailand no longer need to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to enter the country.

Since April 1, 2021, U.S. passport holders have also not been required to obtain a visa for a tourist visit of up to 45 days in Thailand.

For further information on visiting Thailand, check the U.S. Embassy in Thailand's website and the Royal Thai Embassy's website.

The U.S. State Department's travel advisory for Thailand is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Turkmenistan

According to the U.S. Embassy in Turkmenistan, U.S. citizens are allowed to visit the country, but both the U.S. State Department and the CDC heavily discourage going there. Although Turkmenistan just lifted its suspension of all international flights , few commercial airlines offer flights into the country.

The government has not acknowledged any cases of COVID-19 within the borders of Turkmenistan , and the U.S. Embassy in Turkmenistan suggests that the government in Turkmenistan "may be disinclined to do so if cases were confirmed."

Any private U.S. citizen seeking to enter Turkmenistan will be required to present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test and a serology certificate confirming the presence of antibodies, both taken within 48 hours of departure from the U.S. or other point of origin. All travelers will also undergo a PCR test upon arrival ($44), followed by an at-home quarantine of three days. Another PCR test ($44) is required to exit quarantine.

The U.S. Embassy notes, "The government of Turkmenistan can and does change quarantine requirements and arrival procedures for private citizens with little advance notice."

U.S. State Department has issued a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory.

Uzbekistan is open to Americans. U.S. citizens need a visa for entry, but as of June 10, proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test is no longer required for entry, according to the U.S. Embassy in Uzbekistan .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Uzbekistan is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

On March 15, Vietnam reopened to foreign tourists after two years of widespread travel restrictions. Pre-pandemic visa-issuing policies have now resumed and all COVID-19-related mandatory quarantine requirements for new arrivals have been lifted.

As of May 15, travelers no longer have to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test to be allowed into Vietnam. Still, the U.S. Embassy in Vietnam recommends that travelers check with their airline to confirm if tests are needed for the airline or for transit to other countries.

Check with the Vietnam Embassy in the U.S. for additional information.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Vietnam is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Australia had remained closed to most foreign visitors for two years, although that changed on Feb. 21, 2021, when the country finally reopened to fully vaccinated international visitors. And as of July 6, requirements for proof of vaccination or pre-travel testing have been lifted. Health screenings at ports of entry still stand. Details are here .

All international arrivals in Australia do still need to apply for an electronic visa .

Australia also reopened to cruise ships in February 2021.

Related: It's official: Australia is scrapping its pre-travel testing

Check the U.S. Embassy in Australia website for updates.

Qantas has resumed international flights between Sydney and Los Angeles, London and other cities. American, Delta and United are also offering flights from the U.S. to Australia.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Australia is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

French Polynesia

The Islands of Tahiti are now open to all U.S. visitors, regardless of vaccination status. And since French Polynesia is an overseas territory of France, as of Aug. 1, travelers flying to Papeete from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Noumea and Auckland no longer need to provide proof of vaccination or a negative test result or present a sworn statement.

Note: Any non-U.S. citizen flying through the U.S. to get to French Polynesia must be fully vaccinated to enter the U.S. by air.

Updates can be found here . Additional information is available on the Air Tahiti Nui website .

If you're itching to travel to French Polynesia, there are lots of options for getting there. Be sure to check out our guide on the best ways to get to Tahiti using points and miles . The destination is home to some famous hotels, such as the Conrad Bora Bora Nui and the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for French Polynesia is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions.

Fiji began allowing fully vaccinated travelers from select countries, including the U.S., for tourism as of Dec. 1, 2021, after having been in strict lockdown since March 2020 with no tourism allowed for more than 18 months. Fiji reopened to fully vaccinated travelers from all countries on April 7, 2022.

To enter Fiji, fully vaccinated travelers age 16 and older need to present proof of full vaccination, but predeparture COVID-19 test requirements have been lifted. Children under age 16, when accompanied by a vaccinated adult, do not need to be vaccinated.

As of April 7, travelers do need to have travel health insurance valid for COVID-19 in Fiji.

Check for updates here and visit the U.S. Embassy in Fiji website for additional information. The U.S. State Department's advisory for Fiji is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

New Zealand

Americans who are fully vaccinated have been allowed to visit New Zealand since May 2, but as of Sept. 13 and Oct. 20, all COVID-related entry requirements, including being vaccinated, have been lifted.

However, any traveler from a visa-waiver country (including the U.S.) must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority . Details can be found here .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for New Zealand is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions.

As of Aug. 1, foreign nationals are able to enter Samoa, according to the U.S. Embassy in Samoa. And since late September, there are no longer any vaccination or pre-travel testing requirements for Americans seeking to enter Samoa.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Samoa is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

U.S. citizens can enter Tonga for tourism purposes, as of Aug. 1, according to the U.S. Embassy in Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Tonga, and Tuvalu .

Those who do travel to Tonga need to be fully vaccinated and present a negative rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours of arrival. Check with your airline for the most up-to-date testing requirements.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Tonga is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Middle East

According to the U.S. Embassy in Bahrain , U.S. travelers have been permitted to receive a visa upon arrival and enter Bahrain since Sept. 4, 2020.

As of Feb. 20, 2022, Bahrain no longer requires pre-travel testing or testing upon arrival, no matter a traveler's vaccination status. If travelers plan to go to Saudi Arabia (one Bahrain's neighboring countries) from Bahrain, however, the U.S. Embassy notes that COVID-19-related restrictions might be enforced or changed with little to no notice. The embassy discourages travelers from flying into Bahrain solely to go to Saudi Arabia.

Face masks are now optional in all indoor public spaces and indoor dining has returned to full capacity.

The U.S. State Department's travel advisory for Bahrain is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Americans had been able to visit Israel if fully vaccinated, and as of March 1, even unvaccinated travelers can enter the country .

According to the U.S. Embassy in Israel , there are no longer any COVID-19 entry requirements or restrictions for travelers. Additional information is available here .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Israel is now indicated with individual summaries for the country's regions, with a Do Not Travel warning for Gaza.

Jordan is open to Americans, according to the U.S. Embassy in Jordan. All arriving passengers must register online before the flight, but pre-travel and arrival COVID-19 test requirements were dropped as of March 1, 2022. Passengers are encouraged to check with their airlines for specific requirements, though.

All travelers must have travel health insurance valid in Jordan and must complete their online Gateway2Jordan registration to receive a QR code to be presented upon boarding their flight.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Jordan is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Americans can once again travel to Kuwait without the need to test or quarantine, according to the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait . Travelers seeking to enter will only be permitted in with either a valid visa or a residency permit. Electronic visas (eVisas) are available for U.S. citizens on the Ministry of Interior website.

According to the U.S. Embassy, as of May 1, proof of vaccination is no longer required to enter.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Kuwait is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

As of March 28, registration on the Ministry of Public Health Pass platform has been canceled and travelers no longer need to show their enrollment before being permitted to board a flight bound for Lebanon.

As of March 1, fully vaccinated passengers who received their last dose of a COVID-19 vaccine (or a booster shot) within the past six months are exempt from performing a PCR test or rapid antigen test in their country of departure and from being tested upon arrival at Beirut's airport.

All unvaccinated travelers to Lebanon over the age of 12 must present a negative PCR or rapid antigen test taken within 48 hours of boarding their flight to enter the country, per the U.S. Embassy in Lebanon . All unvaccinated passengers, except those under the age of 12, are also now required to take a PCR test upon arrival at Beirut Airport and refrain from going out in public for 24 hours until receiving a negative result.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Lebanon is Level 3: Reconsider Travel .

International flights to Oman have resumed and as of May 23, all COVID-19-related entry restrictions have been lifted, according to the U.S. Embassy in Oman . However, the embassy notes that travelers to Oman "may be requested to present a vaccination certificate indicating they have received at least 2 doses of a Sultanate-approved COVID-19 vaccine. The last dose is required to be taken at least fourteen (14) days ahead of the estimated arrival time."

The Sultanate is currently accepting the following approved vaccines: AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, Sinovac, Sinopharm, Sputnik V, Novavax, CanSino, Covaxin and Sputnik Lite.

The Royal Oman Police resumed all visa operations and services on Sept. 1, 2021. All travelers are also required to have travel health insurance that is valid in Oman and covers the cost of COVID-19 treatment for at least a month.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Oman is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Qatar , which is hosting the 2022 World Cup from late November to mid-December, welcomes foreign tourists and as of Nov. 1, COVID-19-related entry measures have been dropped . Details can be found here .

U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Qatar for visits of up to 30 days. Check here and see the website of the U.S. Embassy in Qatar for more information.

Full details on entry requirements are available on Qatar's Ministry of Public Health website .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Qatar is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Saudi Arabia

Fully vaccinated and boosted Americans can travel to Saudi Arabia, and as of March 5, 2022, the country has removed all COVID-19-related testing and quarantine restrictions. According to the U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia , fully vaccinated travelers to the kingdom are:

• No longer required to provide proof of a negative PCR or rapid antigen test upon arrival.
• No longer required to undergo any mandatory COVID-19 quarantine upon arrival.

According to the U.S. Embassy, all persons in Saudi Arabia still need to register to show proof of vaccination via the Tawakkalna app by a Ministry of Health-approved vaccine (Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson, Sinopharm, Sinovac, Covaxin, Sputnik and Covovax). It is used to enter all government and private establishments, as well as for public transportation and domestic air travel. All travelers must also obtain a visa and have health insurance valid in Saudi Arabia.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for the country is Level 3: Reconsider Travel.

U.S. travelers are not able to enter Syria at this time. The U.S. State Department's advisory for Syria is Level 4: Do Not Travel .

United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates is open to tourism and Americans are welcome — without the need to provide proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test as of Nov. 7 .

For complete information on traveling to Dubai, check the Emirates website . Details for Abu Dhabi are available here .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for the UAE is Level 3: Reconsider Travel .

The U.S. State Department has maintained a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory for Yemen due to issues with terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, kidnapping, armed conflict and landmines. The embassy in Sanaa suspended operations in early 2015, and U.S. citizens in Yemen will not be able to rely on emergency services from the U.S. government.

All travelers entering on U.S. documents are required to have a visa from the Yemeni government before entering the country, and passports must have an additional six months of validity from the date of departure.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Botswana , as of Aug. 28, all Americans are permitted to enter Botswana without proof of COVID-19 vaccination or pre-travel testing.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Botswana is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Democratic Republic of Congo

The Democratic Republic of Congo reopened its borders in August 2020. It is perhaps best known for Virunga National Park, which reopened on April 1, 2021 .

According to the U.S. Embassy , as of Oct. 1, fully vaccinated travelers no longer need to present proof of a negative pre-travel COVID-19 PCR test taken within three days of travel to enter or depart the DRC.

However, all unvaccinated international travelers age 11 and older must arrive with proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within three days of their departure to the DRC. Upon arrival, unvaccinated travelers age 11 and older must also take a second COVID-19 test at the airport. Travelers should register their information and pay for the test ($45) at inrbcovid.com before they begin their travels and must self-quarantine until they receive a negative test result, usually within 24 hours.

Americans need a visa to visit as well as a WHO card with proof of yellow fever vaccination and proof of health and medical evacuation insurance valid in the DRC.

To exit the DRC, all unvaccinated travelers age 11 and older must pay for and present proof of a negative COVID-19 test from an approved lab taken within three days of travel ($30).

The U.S. State Department's advisory for the Democratic Republic of Congo is Level 3: Reconsider Travel .

International tourism resumed in Egypt in July 2020 and the country is now open to Americans — with no restrictions to entry as of June 2022.

Americans do still need a tourist visa , available on arrival or before arrival via online enrollment . But there are no quarantine requirements and the need to present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test with a QR code was lifted June 17, according to the U.S. Embassy in Egypt . The latest travel advisories are also available here .

The U.S. State Department's warning is Level 3: Reconsider Travel .

Related: Dreaming of visiting Egypt

Ghana's Kotoka International Airport (ACC) reopened for regular international service on Sept. 1, 2020, and the country's land and sea borders reopened on March 28, 2022. According to the U.S. Embassy in Ghana , Americans are allowed to enter the country and all passengers arriving by air must be fully vaccinated (if age 18 or older) and fully vaccinated travelers no longer need to present proof of a negative pre-travel COVID-19 test.

The embassy notes: "All persons 18 years old and above arriving in Ghana will be required to provide evidence of full vaccination for a COVID-19 vaccine. Citizens of Ghana and foreign residents who are not fully vaccinated, will, however, need to provide a negative PCR test result no more than 48-hours old, will undergo an antigen test upon arrival in Ghana, and will be offered vaccination upon arrival. Ghana's Foreign Missions have been instructed to make vaccination a requirement for visa acquisition."

Ghana's Ministry of Public Health has ended its mandate for the use of face masks in public, but social distancing and good hand hygiene are still recommended.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Ghana is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.

Kenya reopened to tourism on Aug. 1, 2020, and Americans are currently welcome to visit. According to the U.S. Embassy in Kenya, all visitors must fill out a mandatory online health form (to obtain a QR code for scanning upon arrival) and have a valid vaccination certificate. If unvaccinated and eligible to visit (and over age 5), travelers must have proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure for Kenya and then take a rapid antigen test (at a cost of $30) upon arrival.

Before travel, both vaccination and test results documents (for eligible unvaccinated visitors) must be uploaded prior to travel into the Panabios system.

All visitors also need to obtain an e-visa.

Face masks are no longer mandatory in public but are recommended in some indoor situations.

The U.S. State Department's travel advisory is now Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

According to the U.S. Embassy in Malawi , Americans are allowed to enter Malawi. As of June 1, travelers who can show a digital COVID-19 vaccination certificate no longer need a pre-travel PCR test to enter. With the white CDC card, however, electronic proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival is required.

Travelers who are unvaccinated need to show a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken with 72 hours of arrival in Malawi.

All travelers must use the Trusted Traveler framework for online authentication of their vaccination or PCR test documents. Details are available here .

More information is available on the Malawi Tourism website .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Malawi is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Mauritius , the island nation dropped its pre-travel testing requirement as of March 12 — and as of July 1, there are no longer different rules for vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers. Both groups do need to fill in Mauritius' All in One Travel Form to generate an arrival QR code.

Details of travel requirements and travel alerts for Mauritius can be found here .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Mauritius is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Related: Why Mauritius should be at the top of your travel to-do list

Morocco reopened to foreign visitors on Feb. 7, 2022 , reversing a ban on air travel that was instated in November of 2021.

All COVID-19-related entry requirements were lifted on Sept. 30, with the exception of the completion of a health form .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Morocco is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

According to the U.S. Embassy in Mozambique , U.S. citizens can enter Mozambique and a visa is required. Visas should be obtained in the U.S. (in New York City or Washington, D.C.) before travel to Mozambique, the embassy says, because visas upon arrival, while available for tourists, are not guaranteed.

Travelers must provide proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 PCR test administered in their country of origin within 72 hours of departure. Children up to age 11 are exempt from this requirement. Travelers should expect health screenings upon arrival and there are many regulations and restrictions in effect for commercial businesses and gatherings. Masks are required in all closed spaces.

Although the government of Mozambique does not require exiting travelers to take COVID-19 tests, individual airport agents might. Travelers should check their airline's requirements ahead of time.

Currently, the U.S. State Department's advisory for Mozambique is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Namibia has been open for tourism since Sept. 1, 2020, and all COVID-19-related entry requirements have now been lifted. For further information, check the health section of the Visit Namibia website and the U.S. Embassy in Namibia .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Namibia is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Nigeria reopened its airports for domestic travel on July 8, 2020, and international flights resumed in August 2020. All tourists are again welcome, including Americans.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria , arriving international passengers age 18 and older must have verifiable proof of being fully vaccinated or, if unvaccinated or partially vaccinated, present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of departure on the first leg of their journey. A protocol issued in September 2021 requires all international visitors to register via the Nigeria International Travel Portal and upload test results or vaccine certificates prior to travel.

In addition, all travelers who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated are required to take additional COVID-19 PCR tests on day two and day seven after arrival (and they must register and pay for them beforehand to obtain a QR code). The U.S. Embassy in Nigeria says that travelers might face penalties if they do not comply with COVID-19 regulations while in Nigeria.

Arrival testing details can be found here .

The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory for Nigeria.

Republic of the Congo

The Republic of the Congo, located in Central Africa between Gabon and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is allowing U.S. travelers to visit. According to the U.S. Embassy in the Republic of the Congo , there are no longer any COVID-19-related entry restrictions for the country.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for the Republic of the Congo is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Rwanda is open to American tourists. According to the U.S. Embassy in Rwanda , COVID-19 testing is not required for entry.

Rwanda offers visas on arrival for people of all nationalities.

Visitors to Rwanda's national parks are no longer required to provide negative COVID-19 test results to enter, but must fill out a guest registration and indemnity form and submit it electronically. Details are available here .

Face masks are no longer required nationwide in public spaces, but are recommended.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Rwanda is now Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions.

U.S. citizens can visit Senegal. While international flights to Senegal have resumed, most land borders, with the exception of The Gambia, remain closed to tourist traffic, according to the U.S. Embassy .

The embassy also reports that proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative pre-travel test are no longer required for entry to Senegal.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Senegal is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

The Seychelles began welcoming vaccinated Americans in February 2021. As of March 25, 2021, unvaccinated U.S. travelers can visit. Details can be found here .

All visitors require travel authorization via the online portal and must present valid travel and health insurance that covers, at a minimum, COVID-19-related isolation, quarantine and clinical care.

Fully vaccinated travelers (a booster dose is required for those age 18 and older if the second dose was more than six months prior) and those who have proof of having tested positive in the past two to 12 weeks no longer need to present proof of a negative pre-travel test to enter. Those who are unvaccinated must present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours or a rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours of their flight and upload the test results to the online portal.

Visitors may only stay at licensed establishments or liveaboards that have been certified by the Public Health Authority. They must also have travel health insurance valid for treatment in the Seychelles.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Seychelles is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions . Check the U.S. Embassy website for updates.

Sierra Leone

All travelers to Sierra Leone are required to register online to receive a Sierra Leone Incoming number, according to the U.S. Embassy in Sierra Leone .

As of April 13, a pre-travel COVID-19 test or a test upon arrival is no longer required for travelers who are fully vaccinated.

Partially vaccinated or unvaccinated travelers no longer have to present proof of a negative pretest, but will be tested upon arrival and must pay the fee online when registering for their Sierra Leone Incoming number.

Proof of yellow fever vaccination is also required.

When departing Sierra Leone, an Outbound number is required for all travelers and those who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated must present proof of a negative test taken within 48-72 hours of departure.

The U.S. State Department's travel advisory for Sierra Leone is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

South Africa

South Africa reopened to tourism on Oct. 1, 2020, and as of Nov. 11, 2020, U.S. citizens can enter for tourism purposes, according to the U.S. Embassy in South Africa . As of June 22, 2022, all COVID-19-related entry requirements have been dropped; proof of vaccination or a negative test is no longer required to enter South Africa. However, all arriving travelers must fill out a health questionnaire .

Related: The 6 best ways to get to South Africa on points and miles

Details can be found here and on South African Airways' website .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for South Africa is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

U.S. citizens can enter Tanzania with a vaccination certificate containing a QR code (the CDC card does not have one, but one can be accessed via the VAMS system or via Global Haven ). Vaccinated travelers do not need to take a COVID-19 test upon entry.

Tanzania currently requires all unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travelers to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result containing a QR code and taken within 72 hours of their flight to Tanzania or Zanzibar. They may also be tested upon arrival at their own cost. ($10 in Tanzania and $25 in Zanzibar).

Related: Dreaming of Tanzania

All travelers must complete an online Health Surveillance Form within 24 hours prior to arrival to receive a unique health code. U.S. tourists need a visa to visit Tanzania. All travelers will undergo screening upon arrival.

For more information, see the U.S. Embassy in Tanzania's website .

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Tanzania is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Americans can currently travel to Uganda.

According to the U.S. Embassy , all arriving passengers must have a visa applied for online and approved by the Ugandan government and those age 6 and older must present proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 PCR test from an accredited laboratory in the country of origin taken no more than 72 hours before boarding their flight for Uganda. Carrying paper copies of both vaccine certificates and test results are required.

The U.S. Embassy also notes that the government of Uganda requires that all departing passengers age 6 and older present proof of full vaccination or a negative PCR COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of departure. This requirement is mandatory for all departing passengers out of Uganda even if the destination country does not require it.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Uganda is Level 3: Reconsider Travel .

Zambia , home to Victoria Falls and known as a top safari destination, is open to international travelers, including Americans.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Zambia , the country requires proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel (travelers below age 12 are exempt). Tourists from the U.S. and certain other countries no longer need a visa, but they will be subject to health screenings (all travelers must submit a health declaration form) upon arrival and symptomatic individuals may be required to submit to testing and/or self-isolation.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for Zambia is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions .

Zimbabwe reopened its borders to international flights on Oct. 1, 2020, and Americans can visit for tourism. All travelers arriving and departing are required to have proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 PCR test issued by a recognized facility and taken within 48 hours of their time of departure for Zimbabwe. Details are here .

A yellow fever vaccination is also required, according to the U.S. Embassy in Zimbabwe .

Travelers who have received at least three doses of a WHO-approved vaccine are exempt from mandatory wearing of face masks in public, with the exception of public transport and certain indoor spaces.

The U.S. State Department's advisory for the country is now Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution .

Additional reporting by Katherine Fan, Jordyn Fields, Jane Frye, Jacob Harrison, Donna Heiderstadt, Liz Hund, Brian Kim, Stella Shon, Caroline Tanner and Mimi Wright.

More Southeast Asian countries open borders for quarantine-free travel, to help recover millions of jobs lost to COVID-19

Southeast Asian countries are barreling ahead with plans to reopen their borders to international travel, after the COVID-19 pandemic devastated the region’s key tourism industries.

The pandemic pushed 4.7 million Southeast Asians into extreme poverty in 2021—defined as those earning less than $1.90 a day—the Asian Development Bank (ADB) said in a report released Wednesday. The report, citing the International Labour Organization, estimates that 9.3 million people were unemployed as a result of the pandemic in 2021—and predicts that the job scarcity will only be reduced to 4.1 million in 2022. 

Tourism represents more than 10% of GDP in countries like Thailand and Cambodia, which makes reviving the tourism sector critical to the region’s post-pandemic economic recovery. But tourist hotspots face a tough challenge in bringing back international travelers, as continued COVID restrictions and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine threaten to hobble an already fragile recovery.

In the third quarter of 2021, international arrivals in Asia and the Pacific were 95% lower than 2019 levels, according to the ADB, citing the United Nations. The report predicts that international travel won’t be able to support the region’s tourism sector until 2024, even as more Southeast Asian economies reopen their borders for quarantine-free travel.

On Wednesday, Vietnam allowed all international travelers to enter the country without needing to quarantine. Last week, Malaysia announced that it would offer quarantine-free entry to fully vaccinated travelers from April 1. 

Other countries in Southeast Asia have already lowered their travel restrictions. Thailand relaunched its quarantine-free travel scheme in early February after a brief pause caused by the emergence of the Omicron COVID variant. The country announced Friday that travelers would no longer be required to hold documentation certifying they are COVID-free.

Finally, Indonesia is considering expanding quarantine-free travel— currently limited to the resort island of Bali—across the nation.

But two major sources of tourism for Southeast Asia are unlikely to return anytime soon.

One is China, which was the largest source of tourists for Thailand, the second-largest for Indonesia, and the third-largest for Malaysia before the pandemic. A return of Chinese tourists is “key for these destinations to be sustainable in the long run,” Haiyan Song, associate dean of Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s School of Hotel and Tourism Management, told Fortune last month.

Tourists from China are unlikely to travel abroad so long as Beijing requires them to quarantine for two weeks in a hotel upon their return, as per the Chinese government’s current policy.

The war in Ukraine also threatens to close off travel from Russia, another major source of tourists for Southeast Asia. Before the pandemic, Russian tourists were the third-largest source of revenue for Thailand’s tourism industry. Even as recently as February—the month President Vladimir Putin invaded Ukraine—Russians accounted for 8.6% of tourism arrivals in Thailand, making Russia the largest source of tourists that month.

But since the Ukraine invasion began, Russian airlines have canceled almost all their international flights, complicating travel from Russia to tourist destinations. The crashing ruble also makes international travel an expensive prospect for Russian travelers. Finally, without access to credit cards , Russian tourists have to rely on cash to pay for things overseas—and sanctions on Russian banks means they can’t withdraw more money once they get there.

Sanctions have stranded thousands of Russian tourists in Thailand and Indonesia , who have found themselves without payment options.

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These visa changes can affect your trip to Southeast Asia

A mericans can, as of 2024, visit 183 of the 227 countries in the world without a visa.  While that makes the U.S. passport a very strong one, that number is not as high as the 194 nations  open to citizens of countries like Singapore and Spain.

Both those countries recently saw that number rise after, in an effort to bring back post-pandemic tourism, China introduced visa-free entry to the city-state and a number of European Union countries.

Related: China extends visa-free travel rules for 11 countries

While having a reputation for tougher entry requirements than their European counterparts, many Asian nations have slowly been changing visa rules to make it easier for tourists to come. Over in Thailand, the country's Cabinet voted in legislation that changes the number of days visitors from the 93 countries with visa-free access can stay in the country from 30 to 60 days.

These Asian countries are making it easier to come without a visa

This affects citizens of most Western nations such as the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom and Australia. All of these countries already had visa-free access to Thailand but would have previously had to leave at the end of 30 days or apply for a longer visa.

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Other changes voted in by the Cabinet of Thailand include expanding visa-on-arrival entry to 31 countries including India, Cambodia and Laos and expanding the "Destination Thailand Visa" that skilled professionals and digital nomads can use to travel through the country while earning income from abroad.

Government spokesperson Chai Watcharong said that the Thai government is prepared to lose the 12.3 billion Baht (roughly $340 million USD) that it had been collecting annually from visa applications in order to attract more visitors who will in turn spend in the country.

Thinking of going to China? There are also changes to know about

A notoriously closed-off country, China has also made a number of visa changes in an effort to bring in tourists. At the start of 2024, the country scrapped tourist visas for citizens of Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Spain and Switzerland. 

Originally intended to run until Nov. 30, 2024, the program saw strong uptake and has now been extended into 2025 to continue to draw in tourists from those nations.

While a strained relationship between Beijing and Washington have kept Americans (as well as Canadians, Australians and Brits) off this list, Chinese authorities did get rid of the requirement for these citizens to purchase trips without knowing whether they’d be granted entry. 

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Now, those seeking a tourist visa can come to a local embassy with just basic passport and employment information. Visa-free access for Europeans is available for 15 days while citizens of Malaysia and Singapore can stay for up to 30 days without a visa.

“The extension of the short-term visa-free policy until the end of 2025 will undoubtedly further boost confidence and enthusiasm for traveling to China, and will contribute to the growth of inbound tourism as well as aid in the prosperity of the industry," Dai Bin, who heads the China Tourism Academy, told the Global Times in May 2024.

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These are the top 10 countries for travel and tourism

The US retains its prime position in the World Economic Forum's latest Travel & Tourism Development Index. Image:  Unsplash/EveLazco

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• Pent-up demand after the pandemic is expected to drive passenger numbers back up to pre-pandemic levels in 2024.
• The recovery of the travel and tourism sector since the pandemic has been uneven, however, and some nations are better placed than others to respond to the challenges and opportunities of the future.
• The top three best-placed countries for travel and tourism are the US, Spain and Japan, according to the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index.

If you were desperate to get away after the restrictions and enforced staying at home of the pandemic years, you were far from alone.

Global international tourist arrivals are expected to meet pre-pandemic levels in 2024 driven by this pent-up demand. But, the recovery of the travel and tourism sector since the pandemic has not been without challenges. Add to that macroeconomic, geopolitical and environmental factors, which have added pressures on the industry.

These pressures will amplify and evolve over the coming years and, along with the growth of digital technologies and AI, may well force the travel industry to adapt.

Some economies are better placed than others to make these changes, respond to future risks and ensure that travel and tourism is a driver of economic growth and prosperity.

With this in mind, the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index (TTDI) aims to serve as a benchmark for stakeholders to gauge progress, inform decisions and policies, and encourage sustainable and resilient growth.

A mixed recovery in challenging conditions

Europe dominates the top 10 economies for T&T, as ranked by the 2023 index, although the top spot is clinched by the US.

But the index also shows that while 71 of the 119 economies it ranks improved their scores between 2019 and 2023, the average improvement is just 0.7% above pre-pandemic levels.

On the one hand, the rebound in travel and tourism has coincided with rising global air route capacity and connectivity, improved international openness, and increased investment in natural and cultural resources driving tourism. On the other hand, non-leisure demand is still lagging, there are ongoing labour shortages, and air route capacity and connectivity, capital investment and productivity have struggled to keep pace with demand.

This has created a supply and demand imbalance which, along with inflationary pressures, has led to reduced price competitiveness and service disruptions.

Europe and Asia-Pacific have the most favourable conditions

Of the top 30 TTDI scorers in 2023, 26 are high-income countries. Nineteen of them are based in Europe, and seven in Asia Pacific.

These countries benefit from favourable business environments and labour markets, open travel policies, advanced technology adoption, excellent transport and tourism infrastructure, and rich natural, cultural and non-leisure attractions.

As a result, this group of 30 accounted for more than three-quarters of T&T industry GDP in 2022, and 70% of GDP growth between 2020 and 2022.

But although this group is leading the way, many of the above-average improvements in scores come from low- to upper-middle-income countries, including sub-Saharan and North Africa, Eurasia, South America, South Asia, and the Balkans and Eastern Europe.

While many have shown improvements, these less affluent countries still make up the vast majority of below-average scorers in the index. More investment is needed to help increase their share of the market and improve their readiness for future risks and opportunities.

Progress needed on resilience and equality

The ability of the travel and tourism sector to grow is limited by challenges like tight labour markets, growing fiscal constraints and concerns around health and security conditions. Labour market resilience will be an increasingly important factor for the sector, but issues like equality of job opportunities, workers’ rights and social protection are holding many economies – particularly low- and middle-income ones – back in this area.

As other sectors proceed to decarbonize, the aviation sector could account for a much higher share of global greenhouse gas emissions by mid-century than its 2%-3% share today.

Sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) can reduce the life-cycle carbon footprint of aviation fuel by up to 80%, but they currently make up less than 0.1% of total aviation fuel consumption. Enabling a shift from fossil fuels to SAFs will require a significant increase in production, which is a costly investment.

The Forum’s Clean Skies for Tomorrow (CST) Coalition is a global initiative driving the transition to sustainable aviation fuels as part of the aviation industry’s ambitious efforts to achieve carbon-neutral flying.

The coalition brings together government leaders, climate experts and CEOs from aviation, energy, finance and other sectors who agree on the urgent need to help the aviation industry reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The coalition aims to advance the commercial scale of viable production of sustainable low-carbon aviation fuels (bio and synthetic) for broad adoption in the industry by 2030. Initiatives include a mechanism for aggregating demand for carbon-neutral flying, a co-investment vehicle and geographically specific value-chain industry blueprints.

Learn more about the Clean Skies for Tomorrow Coalition's impact and contact us to find out how you can get involved.

Another major hurdle for the sector is balancing growth with sustainability. Although there has been broad progress in areas like energy sustainability, some progress – like the fall in emissions seen during the pandemic – is likely to only be temporary.

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Despite the third and fourth waves of COVID-19 infections, most Asian countries continue efficiently managing the pandemic keeping death tolls low. 

This is especially true on that side of the world, where many countries are settling into a “new normal” way of life. 

Without further ado, let’s take a look at the current border status of 21 Asian countries reopening (or not) for tourism.

Join our COVID Travel Advice FB Group

Check also: Countries Open for Vaccinated Tourists

Which Asian countries are open for tourism?

• Brunei is open to nationals, residents, and green card holders. All visitors must pay for their mandatory quarantine and COVID-19 tests.
• Cambodia is open to diplomatic, official and business travelers only but it may reopen for tourism in October or November. 
• China is open to foreign nationals with work or residence visas.
• Hong Kong is open to China, Taiwan, Macao, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and other few low-risk countries. The reopening for returning workers has been put off.
• India is open to 28 countries for essential reasons and will announce its reopening date over the next few days.
• Indonesia is closed for tourism but Bali will reopen in October.
• Japan is open for essential travelers only.
• Maldives is open to most countries. No mandatory quarantine.
• Laos is open for essential travel only.
• Malaysia is open for multiple types of visa holders. Quarantine is required. 
• Maldives is open for tourism. No quarantine is required. 
• Myanmar is close to all visitors.
• Nepal resumed commercial flights on June 24.
• Pakistan is open to all countries . No quarantine required. New – Proof of vaccination is now mandatory
• The Philippines is not open for tourism but returning nationals from 57 countries can now come back. 
• Singapore is open for tourism to Australia, China, New Zealand and Taiwan and reopened to Germany, Brunei, Hong Kong and Macau on September 8.
• South Korea is open to visitors from most countries. Quarantine is mandatory.
• Sri Lanka is open to all tourists from multiple countries. Health Insurance, visa and test are required.
• Taiwan is open for essential travel only.
• Thailand reopened Phuket on July 1, and 9 more islands on August 1.
• Vietnam is closed for tourism but will reopen its island Phu Quoc in October.

Most countries on the list have banned or restricted flights from the UK, Brazil and South Africa, along with other countries who have reported new strains of COVID-19.

Asian countries open for tourism – Latest Updates (September 23)

Brunei .

Brunei is open for essential travel only. Nationals, permanent residents and green card holders require permission from the Prime Minister’s Office to leave the country. 

Entry requirements:

• Show proof of a negative COVID-19 test.
• Undergo a 14-day mandatory quarantine at a government-designated facility.
• Foreign travelers visiting Brunei for essential reasons must pay for their quarantine accommodation, COVID-19 tests, and food.

For more information about approved accommodations click here .

Visitors who bypass quarantine may be liable for a fine up to USD $7,459.47 or imprisonment for up to six months, or even both.

Royal Brunei Airlines has canceled most of its operations until March 27, 2021.

Cambodia Reopening

Cambodia might reopen for fully-vaccinated international travelers around January 16, 2022, as the government will host the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF), or even possibly as early as October-November, Cambodia Association of Travel Agents (Cata) president Chhay Sivlin said.

“We believe that the reopening of receiving tourists will help restore tourism as soon as possible, we can no longer procrastinate. All businesses have been idling around for almost two years, making it very cumbersome for them to recover,” Sivlin said.

Currently, Cambodia is open to diplomatic, official and business travelers only . The country has suspended its e-visas program so travelers will need to obtain one through an embassy or consulate in their home countries.

Entry requirements – Updated

• Have a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 72-hours before arrival.
• Proof that they have health insurance with coverage of at least USD $50,000.
• Agree to quarantine for two weeks upon arrival at a hotel or government facility.
• The visas-on-arrival program has been suspended. All travelers need to obtain a visa at a Cambodian embassy/consulate.
• A deposit for USD 2,000 to cover unexpected expenses related to biosafety measures.

Before arrivals can settle into quarantine accommodations, they must submit to additional COVID-19 screenings at the entry port. Passengers must wait in government-run facilities until all their tests come back clear. 

If even one test returns positive, then everyone on the flight, boat, or train must undergo quarantine at a government facility for two weeks. The expenses for food and accommodation will be taken out of your deposit money.

China Reopening

For the very first time in more than a year, China is reportedly having conversations with multiple countries to resume the visa/entry request process for travelers who have received two doses of the Chinese vaccine. 

Visitors will still need to bring a negative COVID-19 test result and undergo a 14-21 day quarantine.

Using their own home-made vaccine, China has set a new goal to boost the ratio to 40 vaccines per 100 people by the end of June, 2021.

Most restrictions on local travel have been lifted and life has almost gotten back to normal. However, allowed visitors must go through a strict process of obtaining a visa, get tested for Covid-19 and undergo mandatory 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.

• 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 14-21 days.

Check the full and updated post on China reopening borders to foreigners !

Hong Kong Reopening

Nationals and residents returning from China, Taiwan, Macao, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and another handful of low-risk countries will be allowed entry under a new 7-day quarantine scheme.

This is a huge improvement in Hong Kong’s rather strict travel policies. In most cases, arrivals must quarantine for up to 21 days. These favored travelers still need to spend the first week at a quarantine hotel, then observe 7 days of self-monitoring and take a mandatory COVID-19 test on day 12th of their arrival. 

Hong Kong was set to allow entry to fully vaccinated returning nationals and work visa holders from “high-risk” countries but now the government has put off its initiative fearing the move could jeopardize its travel bubble agreement with China.

Other essential travelers who don’t belong to the mentioned categories, such as diplomats and students, still need to undergo a mandatory 21-day quarantine, plus agree to the rest of the regular restrictions.

Entry requirements for people coming from medium or high-risk countries.

• Agree to undergo a 21-day quarantine at a designated quarantine hotel
• Present proof of having spent the 14 days prior to their arrival in Mainland China, Taiwan, or Macao and have a reservation for 21 days at a regular hotel in Hong Kong. 
• Visitors who have been to Bangladesh, Belgium, Ethiopia, Ecuador, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Nepal, Romania, Ukraine, Pakistan, The Philippines, Russia, South Africa, Turkey, the United Kingdom, Canada or the United States in the 21 days prior to their arrival in Hong Kong, must present a COVID-19 nucleic acid test negative result issued 72 hours before the scheduled time of departure of the aircraft.

Read our full post on Hong Kong reopening borders .

India Reopening

Top Union Home Ministry officials will announce the country’s official reopening date for tourism over the next few days, said senior Minister Luhut Pandjaitan on Sept. 17

India is still working on reopening details and the “modalities for opening up of the country for foreign tourists.” Whatever that means. 

Five thousand tourist visas free will be issued at no cost as part of the strategy to boost the airline and tourism sectors. 

For now, India’s borders are only open to foreign nationals who hold a work or residence visa, as well as returning citizens and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI). Tourist visa holders are not admitted at the moment.

Current entry requirements

• Agree to a 7-day quarantine at a government facility, followed by 7 more days of self-isolation at home (applies for New Delhi, quarantine policies in other regions may vary.)
• Submit a self-declaration through the New Delhi Airport website 72 hours before your arrival in India.

Certain people — including students, medical professionals, engineers, design specialists, and managers working on projects in India — are welcome back if they obtain the proper visas, test negative, and quarantine for two weeks upon arrival.

Also read India opening tourism .

Indonesia Reopening

Indonesia is set to reopen Bali and other parts of the country by October after a relevant decrease in COVID-19 cases, senior minister Luhut Pandjaitan said last week.

If this trend continues, the country may reopen to citizens from South Korea, Japan, Singapore and New Zealand, given the low virus spread in those nations, the minister said. 

Restaurants, malls and places of worship in the capital Jakarta and Bali have reopened at a limited capacity, President Joko Widodo announced a few weeks ago.

For further information on the new protocols click here .

As of today, Indonesia is open to business visa holders of all nationalities.

Entry requirements

• Health certificate from the country of origin
• Negative PCR COVID-19 test results
• Agree to health screenings and self-isolation for 14 days at home (if not infected) or a government-approved facility (if infected)

For more details, check out the full post on Indonesia reopening borders and Bali opening tourism .

Japan Reopening

Japan detected some of the new highly-contagious variants of the coronavirus in 20 prefectures so the government decided to tighten the restrictions. As of today, only 2,000 people (of those who are allowed for essential reasons) are permitted to enter the country per day.  

Foreign nationals from non-banned countries who have diplomatic, work or study visas should check with the Japanese embassy in their country if they can travel and if they need to comply with additional requirements.

• Diplomatic visa, work visa, or re-entry permit.
• 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 14-day quarantine 

Read the full post on Japan opening for tourism for the latest updates!

Maldives Reopening

Maldives was open to all countries but since the islands are going through a severe spike in COVID-19 cases, the country has decided to halt flights from India and other South Asian countries until further notice. 

The rest of travelers are welcome in Maldives. They only need to bring their negative PCR test results. 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.

Check out full post: Maldives is open for tourism

• 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 is not welcoming foreign tourists just yet. Although many of the internal measures -lockdowns and travel restrictions- have been relaxed , airports remain closed to international commercial flights.

In order to be granted entry, visitors need to request a special permit from the Laos’ government explaining the type of emergency that forces the traveler to visit the country.

The country only allows one or two international humanitarian flights with Korea every two weeks, and a weekly UN humanitarian one to/from Malaysia. 

Inside the country the situation is quite normal. Domestic flights continue to be fully operational, restaurants, grocery stores, and schools and universities are open, and even large gatherings such as religious ceremonies, and karaoke sites are open for business.

• Agree to a 14-day quarantine

Malaysia Reopening

Malaysia Airlines has introduced its brand-new Digital Travel Health Pass. The new app will permit passengers to schedule COVID-19 tests with trusted medical partners and upload their COVID-19 vaccination certificates. The idea is to make travel to the country easier for locals and visitors.

The country has authorized the entry of foreign students starting January 1. Other categories of allowed foreign travelers are:

• Residence Pass-Talent (RP-T) and their dependents
• Employment Pass (Category EP I, II and III)
• Professional Visit Pass (PVP) 
• Dependent Pass to expatriate for all categories
• Long Term Social Visit Pass (LT-SVP) to expatriate for all categories
• Foreign Maid to expatriate for all categories
• Spouses of Malaysian citizens are allowed to apply for an entry permit since November 20.

Also read: Malaysia reopening!

Entry Requirements

• Apply for permission to enter through MyTravel Pass portal
• All travelers will be tested on arrival. This does not have any effect on their mandatory quarantine.
• Travelers with a negative COVID-19 test taken 72 hours prior to boarding will need to undergo a 7-day quarantine and get retested on day 5.
• Travelers without a negative COVID-19 test will need to undergo a 10-day quarantine and get retested on day 8.

Myanmar Reopening

Myanmar is currently closed to all travelers and it may remain so for a long time since a military council has overthrown the elected government and declared a State of Emergency for a year. 

Myanmar continues to have a heavy lockdown that includes curfews, domestic travel restrictions and a ban on all international flights. It does not seem like Myanmar is planning to reopen any time soon.

Nepal Reopening

Nepal resumed commercial flights to and from Kathmandu on June 24. Multiple restrictions apply.

Also, according to the U.S. embassy in Nepal, the Nepali government announced the reopening for American travelers a few days ago. 

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. 

Also read: Nepal reopening for tourism – Travel restrictions

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 for a 10-day mandatory quarantine. On day 10 of their quarantine, they will get retested regardless of their symptoms. 
• 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 business 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 website travel form or use PassTrack mobile app

Philippines Reopening

Although the Philippines is not open for tourism, President Duterte has decided to permit returning nationals and people visiting for essential reasons from 57 low-risk countries to enter the territory under a reduced 7-day quarantine.

“Those who received full vaccination outside the Philippines need to bring the official documents stating you were already vaccinated,” said a government spokesperson at a conference some days ago. 

This is a huge step for the Philippines that only allowed returning nationals who had received their vaccination curse in the Philippines. 

Additionally, all visitors are compelled to book a room at a government-designated facility to quarantine upon arrival and take the extra COVID-19 tests. All at the visitors’ expense.

Also read: Philippines reopening for tourism

• Get tested for COVID-19 on arrival
• Present a reservation for at least days at a pre-approved quarantine hotel or facility
• Quarantine for 14 days or until negative test results are made available

Singapore Reopening

The Singaporean aviation regulator stated the country will accept vaccinated travelers over the months to come. The government will accept the International Air Transport Association (IATA) mobile travel pass for pre-departure checks. Travelers must upload their vaccination certificates from accredited laboratories to the app so they can get clearance to enter the country.

Singapore has eased entry restrictions for visitors from Germany, Brunei, Hong Kong and Macau. 

The travel bubble with Germany and Brunei will open on Sept. 8.

Visitors from these 2 countries will need to be fully vaccinated, download a contact tracing app for use while in Singapore and spend the 21 previous days in either Germany or Brunei.

Entry restrictions for visitors from Hong Kong and Macau would be a bit easier.

So far, Singapore is open for tourism to Australia, China, New Zealand and Taiwan thanks to its Air Travel Pass agreement.

Travelers coming from other countries will need to get a long-term visit pass (for work, study, business and others) and obtain an Approval Letter issued by the respective Ministry to be allowed entry.

• Negative COVID-19 test results (or a test on arrival for Air Travel Pass visitors)
• Proof of vaccination against COVID-19

Also read: Singapore is open for some tourists but reimposing strict local restrictions

South Korea Reopening

South Korea continues to be open to tourists with restrictions. However, the government is reportedly negotiating travel bubbles with a number of Asian countries. The beneficiaries of these new agreements will forgo quarantine and other requirements. The names of these countries have not been released yet but Australia and Japan are two of the candidates. ( Source )

The country has introduced an additional entry requirement for all foreign arrivals, they will need to present a negative COVID-19 test result obtained within 72 hours prior to departure. 

South Korean citizens and permanent residents are exempted unless they are returning to the country from the U.K., South Africa, or Brazil.

• Foreign travelers will need a visa and present proof of a negative COVID-19 test.
• All travelers will need to quarantine for 14 days at their own cost
• Nationals returning from the UK, South Africa or Brazil need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test. ( source )

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 !

• Apply for a visa or travel permit online here .
• Bring a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours before departure.
• Pay for on-site COVID-19 testing and health insurance.
• Undergo a 14-day quarantine regardless of vaccination status at a government-designated facility.

Visitors cannot leave their hotels for 14 days but they can enjoy the hotel facilities and common areas.

Taiwan Reopening

On April 1, Taiwan opened its first “travel bubble” with Palau, one of the few countries in the world with zero COVID-19 cases or deaths. The first flight took off from Taipei to Palau international airport carrying Palau’s President Surangel Whipps Jr. and first lady Valerie Whipps among the 100 lucky tourists. 

“We are opening this travel bubble in hopes of boosting tourism and economic activities for both (sides) while preventing the spread of Covid-19.” Said the Taiwanese Health Minister Chen Shih-chung.

The island has instituted group quarantine facilities for travelers from the UK, South Africa and the Kingdom of Eswatini. They have also banned passengers in transit through their airports

Entry requirements to the rest of visitors

• 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.
• Mandatory 14-day quarantine at a government facility or a government-approved hotel (residents can stay at their homes if they can prove is a one person household)

Check our full post Taiwan opening for tourists !

Thailand Reopening

Thailand reopened its resort island Phuket on July 1 and 9 other Thai islands from August 1.

“I’m very excited that it’s finally happening,” said Nanthasiri Ronnasiri, the head of the Phuket branch of the Thai tourism authority. “Business here has been devastated. With this reopening, at least the people are being given the chance to welcome tourists again.”

Once fully vaccinated travelers have spent at least 7 days in the “Phuket-Sandbox,” they will be given the option to visit other 9 Thai islands. 

The ones included in the initiative are Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan, Koh Tao, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Ngai, Railay, Khao Lak, Koh Yao Yai, and Koh Yao Noi in Phangnga.

To be eligible, visitors need to be able to demonstrate they received the last shot of a COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to arrival in Thailand. 

Furthermore, the country is set to fully reopen for tourism in mid-October , according to Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chanocha.

Check our full post:  Thailand opening for tourism !

Vietnam Reopening

Vietnam is set to reopen its island Phu Quoc for international tourism in October. The government is confident they will have vaccinated 90% of the island’s population by then. 

The country will use a similar system Thailand used to reopen Phuket. 

So, visitors will need proof of vaccination and a negative Covid-19 test. The rest of the requirements are yet to be announced.

If this reopening is successful, the government would reopen other areas of the country right after. 

Fully-vaccinated Russian tourists would be among the first tourists allowed to visit the country. 

Also, Vietnam resumed international flights to and from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh from June 2 after closing airports following a series of concerns about a new hybrid variant linked to a surge in COVID-19 cases.

As of today, Vietnam borders still remain closed for most types of travel. Only pre-approved diplomats, returning citizens, officials, experts, business managers, foreign investors, high-tech workers and essential workers will be considered to be granted entry. 

The post Asian Countries Open for Tourism: September 2021 Update appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle .

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4 East Asian countries are holding a summit after 4 years. The U.S. will be watching

Anthony Kuhn

Ayesha Rascoe

Leaders of East Asia's top powers, China, Japan and South Korea, are holding their first summit in 4 years. All have different motivations for keeping tensions among them in check.

Copyright © 2024 NPR. All rights reserved. Visit our website terms of use and permissions pages at www.npr.org for further information.

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After Trump’s Conviction, a Wary World Waits for the Fallout

Already braced for uncertainty about the U.S. election, countries in Europe and Asia are now even more unclear about the future of American diplomacy.

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Andrea Römmele, vice president of the Hertie School, a public policy-focused graduate school in Berlin, said many Germans watching the Trump verdict were relieved to see that even a former president was not above the law in the United States. But she said Germans remained very anxious about a Trump victory.

“I think everyone is much more prepared to think the unthinkable,” she said.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk of Poland, whose right-wing domestic opponents accuse him of using the judiciary to settle political scores, hailed the conviction of Mr. Trump in New York as “an American lesson” for Polish politicians.

“The law determines guilt and punishment, regardless of whether the perpetrator is a president or a minister,” Mr. Tusk said in a message posted on X. A veteran centrist, Mr. Tusk took office after an October election that ousted a nationalist government that cultivated close ties with Mr. Trump during and after his time in the White House.

Still, on Friday, most foreign governments, forced to surf every shift in the American political mood, reacted cautiously.

“I would like to refrain from commenting on matters related to judicial procedures in other countries,” Yoshimasa Hayashi, Japan’s chief cabinet secretary, said at a news conference in Tokyo on Friday.

In Britain, where a national election campaign is underway, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak refused to discuss the Trump case. His Labour Party opponent, Keir Starmer, a former top prosecutor, said he respected the court’s decision and called the situation unprecedented.

“Ultimately whether he is elected president will be a matter for the American people and obviously, if we’re privileged to come in to serve, we would work with whoever they choose as their president,” Mr. Starmer told BBC Radio Scotland.

Mao Ning, a spokeswoman for China’s foreign ministry, declined to comment on the verdict. She said she hoped whoever was elected president would “be committed to developing healthy and stable China-U. S. relations.”

The possibility of Mr. Trump’s return to the White House is a source of anxiety for U.S. allies in Asia that rely on Washington for their defense.

When Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan made a state visit to Washington in April, President Biden called relations between the countries the most important bilateral alliance in the world. With American concern rising over China’s expanding military footprint, Mr. Biden has strengthened American defense partnerships with Japan, South Korea, the Philippines and others in Asia.

By contrast, while president, Mr. Trump called for Japan, which hosts more than 50,000 American troops on its soil, to pay $8 billion for the upkeep of American bases there. (It never happened.)

Still, the fundamental tension in regional geopolitics — the contest between the United States and China — will continue no matter who wins the American presidential election.

“Beijing has no illusion about Trump or Biden, given their anti-China solid stance,” said Lau Siu-kai, an adviser to the Chinese government on Hong Kong policy. “Beijing is all set for a more intense confrontation with the U.S. over technology, trade and Taiwan.”

Officials in China’s embassy in the United States and its consulates around the country are most likely scrambling to assess how the verdict could affect the election, said Willy Lam, an analyst of Chinese politics at the Jamestown Foundation in Washington.

“The majority of Xi Jinping’s advisers now think a Trump presidency might be worse for U.S.-China relations,” Mr. Lam said of China’s top leader. “If Trump were to win, given the now peculiar circumstances of his victory, he might gravitate towards unpredictable actions to assert his authority.”

There is a sense in Asia that the region is perennially overlooked and underappreciated by U.S. presidents, particularly as crises in Europe and the Middle East have monopolized Mr. Biden’s attention. That sentiment was also felt acutely during Mr. Trump’s presidency, and for American partners in Asia it was made worse by his affinity for regional strongmen.

In addition to occasional expressions of admiration for Mr. Putin and Kim Jong-un of North Korea, Mr. Trump invited to the White House a former army chief who led a coup in Thailand and installed himself as prime minister. Mr. Trump drew accolades from Rodrigo Duterte, formerly the president of the Philippines and now under investigation by the International Criminal Court over his deadly war on drugs.

The Philippines is now led by the son of the longtime dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos, who died in exile in Hawaii. He has reoriented the country away from China back toward the United States.

In at least one regard — the prosecution of former leaders — the rest of the world is far ahead of the United States. South Korea, where four former presidents have been convicted of corruption and abuse of power, has made something of a national sport of imprisoning disgraced leaders. The former French presidents Nicolas Sarkozy and Jacques Chirac were convicted of corruption.

Jacob Zuma, the former president of South Africa, has been charged with money laundering, among other crimes. And Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva was sentenced to years in prison for corruption after leading Brazil. His convictions were eventually annulled. He is again president of the country.

Reporting was contributed by Stephen Castle, Elisabetta Povoledo, Roger Cohen, Zixu Wang, Andrew Higgins, Camille Elemia , Choe Sang-Hun , Motoko Rich , Alexandra Stevenson , Sui-Lee Wee and Sameer Yasir .

An earlier version of this article misstated the length of Rodrigo Duterte’s term in office. It was six years, not eight years.

How we handle corrections

Hannah Beech is a Times reporter based in Bangkok who has been covering Asia for more than 25 years. She focuses on in-depth and investigative stories. More about Hannah Beech

Paul Sonne is an international correspondent, focusing on Russia and the varied impacts of President Vladimir V. Putin’s domestic and foreign policies, with a focus on the war against Ukraine. More about Paul Sonne

Our Coverage of the Trump Hush-Money Trial

Guilty Verdict : Donald Trump was convicted on all 34 counts  of falsifying records to cover up a sex scandal that threatened his bid for the White House in 2016, making him the first American president to be declared a felon .

Next Steps: The judge in the case set Trump’s sentencing for July 11, and Trump already indicated that he plans to appeal. Here’s what else may happen .

Reactions: Trump’s conviction reverberated quickly across the country and over the world . Here’s what Trump , voters , New Yorkers , Republicans  and the White House  had to say.

The Presidential Race : The verdict will test America’s traditions, legal institutions and ability to hold an election under historic partisan tension , reshuffling a race that has been locked in stasis and defined by a polarizing former president.

Making the Case: Over six weeks and the testimony of 20 witnesses, the Manhattan district attorney’s office wove a sprawling story  of election interference and falsified business records.

Legal Luck Runs Out: The four criminal cases that threatened Trump’s freedom had been stumbling along, pleasing his advisers. Then his good fortune expired .

Connecting the Dots: As rumors circulated of Trump’s reported infidelity, two accounts of women  being paid to stay silent about their encounters became central to his indictment.