HONOLULU — Effective Sept. 1 Hawaii is allowing all trans-Pacific travellers to forgo the 14-day quarantine providing they have proof of a negative COVID-19 test result.

The new protocol means that out-of-state visitors have the option to get a valid COVID-19 test within 72 hours of their arrival, and show proof of the negative test result, to avoid the two-week quarantine as part of the state’s Pre-Travel Testing Program.

Without proof, passengers arriving from out-of-state must still complete the 14-day quarantine. 

A new notice from Hawaii’s Department of Transportation says travellers will be responsible for the cost of the pre-travel test. As of yet no testing will be provided upon arrival at the airport.

The Canada-U.S. border remains closed until at least Aug. 21.

Earlier in the pandemic Governor David Ige enacted the mandatory 14-day traveller quarantine and passenger verification process for those traveling to the Hawaiian Islands.

The quarantine for inter-island travelers was lifted on June 16, however passenger screening continues with a temperature check and completion of a new travel and health form. The form can be filled out and submitted online. Once successfully completed and submitted online passengers will be emailed a QR code which they will take with them to the airport.

For more details see visit https://health.hawaii.gov/travel/