The governor of Hawaii establishes a pathway for vaccinated travelers to bypass quarantine requirements.

On April 9, Hawaii Governor David Ige released his 19th proclamation concerning the COVID-19 emergency. This 72-page document covers various topics, introducing for the first time a system that allows vaccinated travelers to avoid the mandatory 10-day quarantine.

In the section addressing exemptions to self-quarantine, which already includes travelers with an approved negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to their last flight to Hawaii, new provisions are added to enable vaccinated individuals to skip quarantine as well.

"Once an exception is established by the Director of HIEMA, travelers who upload proof of completing an approved vaccine regimen into the State's Safe Travels program before departing will be exempt. This exception is not currently available, as it depends on the Director's action, with further details to be published at https://hawaiicovid19.com/. Children under five traveling with someone who meets existing testing exceptions are not required to test before arrival."

This marks the latest update in the constantly evolving rules for visiting Hawaii, which vary by island. A new testing requirement for entry into Maui is expected to take effect soon, adding another layer of regulation. Although this testing was slated to begin yesterday, it may now not be implemented until late April, and travelers should not incur costs for this requirement.

Governor Ige's recent announcement is likely to be well-received by the millions of vaccinated travelers. The current requirement for a 72-hour test can be complicated based on your travel itinerary. If you're traveling from the East Coast and connecting through the West Coast to reach Hawaii, your test must be conducted within 72 hours prior to your final leg to Hawaii, rather than from your departure point at home. Additionally, it needs to be one of the approved testing options.

While waiting for the new exemption for vaccinated travelers to be implemented, you can simplify your trip to Hawaii by flying nonstop from any of the 27 major U.S. cities.