This photo dated Sept 6, 2020 shows a sign that reads "Please maintain physical distance" at the Hong Kong International Airport. (PHOTO / HKSAR GOVERNMENT)

HONG KONG – Hong Kong has extended travel restrictions to Singapore and Iceland amid escalating alarm over the COVID-19 variant Omicron.

In a statement issued on Friday evening, a spokesperson for the Hong Kong government said Iceland and Singapore will be specified as Group A (high-risk) specified places from Dec 6 to tighten the boarding and quarantine requirements for relevant inbound travelers.

The announcement came after Omicron cases were confirmed in the two countries.

ALSO READ: HK logs 3 virus cases, detects 4th imported Omicron infection

Non-Hong Kong residents who have stayed in the two places within 21 days are not allowed to enter Hong Kong.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong residents can only board a flight for Hong Kong if they have been fully vaccinated and hold a recognized vaccination record.

“They have to undergo compulsory quarantine in a designated quarantine hotel for 21 days upon return to Hong Kong, with six tests to be conducted during quarantine, followed by compulsory testing in a community testing center on the 26th day of arrival at Hong Kong,” the spokesperson said.

ALSO READ: HKU research team successfully isolates Omicron variant

Apart from Singapore and Iceland, 53 countries have been or will be designated as Group A  (high-risk) specified places, including 12 African nations.