We’ve had many questions recently from those of you who have had and are recently recovered from COVID-19. You want to visit Hawaii but it may not be entirely clear what the rules are that will pertain to you. Here are some answers. Also, here you’ll find the latest on Hawaii travel information following vaccination.
If I’ve recovered from COVID, will additional testing be required?
No additional testing is required if you fall within the guidelines. If you receive an exemption under this category you are not required to have pre-travel or post-travel testing.
If I’ve recovered from COVID, is any quarantine required?
No, again, so long as you follow the state’s guidelines below.
Guidelines for applying for a COVID-19 exemption to the SafeTravels rules.
1. A “positive” molecular COVID-19 test result (NAAT or PCR) from a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) certified laboratory that is no more than 90 days and no less than 11 days prior to your departure date.
Note: When you send the results, please provide enough information so that the state can determine the type of test and that the lab is CLIA certified.
2. Signed letter from a medical provider stating that you have not exhibited symptoms and are fully recovered – this letter must be signed at least 10 days after your positive test and no more than 14 days from your departure date.
3. Lastly, To request an exemption, go here. The state says to please allow a week for processing.
Summary of rules in effect.
The state says that, subject to change, you are clear to travel to Hawaii (except Kauai) without further testing or quarantine. That is so long as you have recovered within the last 90 days, have a positive test result from when you had COVID, and have a doctor’s letter within 14-days of travel. One commenter said they had first-hand experience that indicates Kauai is also permitting this exemption.
These rules could change again as more is learned. A recent article indicates that immunity following infection could last eight months or longer.
Kauai does not appear to provide any exception from its 10-day mandatory quarantine rules other than its Kauai resort bubble and interisland travel exemptions.
If you have traveled to Hawaii with a COVID-19 exemption, or plan to, how does this process work for you?
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Dorie S says
I don’t understand how to answer the question
“Explain why you need an exemption (insufficient details of your work, employment or project, or explanation supporting your request may result in denial)
Belinda M. says
Both my husband and I are recovered from covid we are supposed to travel Kaui July 19 is this still possible will the exmpetion be cleared in time for travel ? We dont want to pay for everything then be told we have to quarantine
Erin P says
Hello,
I am applying for an Covid 19 exemption as I have recovered from Covid and flying to Oahu. What is the stuff I’m reading about an Attorney General email? I am not sure I understand what the Attorney General has to do with my doctor’s note stating I have recovered…. Can you explain the mention of Attorney General? Also, I have positive results from Walgreens, a trusted partner for testing, it does not show clia as the type of lab but it is indeed a clia lab result. Do I need to prove that or will they know this information already?
Thanks,
Erin
Beat of Hawaii says
Hi Erin.
We’d suggest you contact the Hawaii Safe Travels help desk with your question. They can be reached at 855-599-0888.
Aloha.