Quarantine exemptions for mainland China returnees commence today

A government scheme - “Return2HK” - allowing Hong Kong residents to return to the region from mainland China and Macau without serving mandatory quarantine commences today.

The scheme, which requires applicants to make their booking in advance, allows adult applicants who can show negative Covid-19 test results 24 hours before traveling to be exempted from quarantine.

Hong Kong citizens who reside on the mainland were seen returning to the city through the Shenzhen Bay Port today, saying although the application process is complicated, the exemption of a two-time 14 days quarantine is convenient for them.

“It has been half a year since I return to Hong Kong for school, previously I can only take online lessons without actually meeting my classmates. I am really happy about being back,” said a student who just passed through customs.

The system operates on a first-come-first-served basis, with daily quotas set at 3,000 for those incoming from Guangdong and 2,000 for those traveling from Macau.

A government spokesman said there are currently over 10,000 applicants for the scheme.

Those returning to Hong Kong holding a valid HKID through the scheme must not have stayed in any other regions outside of Guangdong, Macau and Hong Kong in the 14 days prior to traveling.