The Foreign Office (FCDO) has updated its advice for people arriving into the UK from China after the Government announced it is introducing pre-departure testing next week.

The new FCDO guidance says: “The UK has introduced COVID-19 related travel restrictions for people arriving into England from mainland China.

“From 5 January 2023, anyone travelling from mainland China on direct flights to England will be asked to take a pre-departure COVID-19 test.

“Airlines will be required to check that passengers from mainland China have a negative test before departure.

“Travellers should check the latest advice on the travel to England from another country during COVID page for further information on requirements.”

The FCDO said the same rules also apply to people arriving from Hong Kong and Macau.

Several other countries, including the US, Italy and France have introduced COVID measures for people arriving from China and the FCDO also warns: “If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting.”

From 8 January, passengers from China will be randomly tested on arrival into the UK.