HKMA Circular on COVID-19 Vaccination and Vaccine Pass Arrangements

Our Ref: B1/15C 18 February 2022 The Chief Executive All Authorized Institutions Dear Sir / Madam, COVID-19 Vaccination and “Vaccine Pass” Arrangements The Hong Kong banking industry has made substantial efforts to promote COVID-19 vaccine uptake in the workplace, with a view to strengthening the protection of bank staff and customers and facilitating better business continuity planning. According to the latest information shared by authorized institutions (AIs) with the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), over 90 percent of bank staff have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. In view of the recent surge in COVID-19 infections involving new, highly transmissible strains, AIs are advised to step up their precautionary measures for protecting their staff and customers and ensuring the uninterrupted provision of essential banking services. Drawing reference from the implementation of “vaccine pass” arrangements by the Government and financial regulators for staff entering the workplace, the HKMA strongly encourages AIs to consider implementing similar arrangements appropriate to their own settings and operational needs at their premises. Under such arrangements, staff should be required to present proof of vaccination for at least the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine before entering the workplace. Exemption may be granted to staff who are unfit for vaccination due to medical conditions, supported by a valid medical certificate. Exempted staff should continue to be required to undergo regular testing for COVID-19. AIs are required to inform the HKMA, within two weeks from the date of this circular, whether they will implement a “vaccine pass” arrangement and the planned date of implementation. If an AI decides not to implement a “vaccine pass” arrangement, it should provide the HKMA with details of its considerations in reaching this decision.

• 2 - Additionally, AIs are required to strongly encourage eligible staff to take the third dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Adequate facilitating measures (e.g. vaccination leave arrangement) should be provided for staff to receive COVID-19 vaccination. AIs should also pay close attention to the development of the COVID-19 epidemic situation and conduct timely assessments of the need to adjust their workplace safety measures, having regard to the Government’s latest guidance on COVID-19 prevention and control measures. Should you have any questions about this circular, you may approach your usual supervisory contacts in the Banking Supervision Department of the HKMA. Yours faithfully, Arthur Yuen Deputy Chief Executive c.c. The Chairperson, The Hong Kong Association of Banks The Chairperson, The Deposit-taking Companies Association