british passport travelling to hong kong

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Visa & entry requirements for hong kong.

Do you know which documents you'll need to travel to Hong Kong? Plan ahead and find out if you need your passport, visa, national ID or all of the above!

Visitors of all nationalities to Hong Kong  must travel with their passport  and it must be valid for at least one month following your stay in the city. You must carry your passport with you at all times, as it's the only valid form of ID to Hong Kong police.

Visas are not required for British citizens (up to 180 days), or for Australian, Canadian, EU, Israeli, Japanese, New Zealand and US citizens (up to 90 days). 

Citizens of British Dependent Territories and British Overseas citizens can  also stay for up to 90 days without a visa, and citizens of some African (including South African), South American and Middle Eastern countries can visit for up to 30 days without a visa.

If you're planning on staying longer than the visa-free period, you must apply for your visa at your nearest Chinese consulate or embassy before travelling to Hong Kong. If you're planning to visit mainland China, you must have a visa.

You can check up to date information on visa and entry requirements on the website of the Hong Kong Immigration Department .

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Learn what currency to buy, whether you need a visa, what language to speak and answers to many other questions you may have about your trip to Hong Kong.

Like many other cities in Southeast Asia, Hong Kong has two seasons: dry and rainy! Learn about the weather so you can decide when to go and what to pack.

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Travelling to Hong Kong? Here's what you need to know

A guide to help you prepare for your entry into the city

International travellers are free to come to Hong Kong, and there are no more restrictions upon arrival.  If you have some enquiries about travelling to the city, we've compiled a guide to help you with everything you need to know when entering Hong Kong, from things to prepare before arriving at Hong Kong International Airport to all the steps you must take as soon as you land.  

RECOMMENDED:  Keep updated with the  latest Covid-19 measures in the city . 

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Who can visit Hong Kong now?

Hong Kong has already dropped the vaccination requirement for Hongkongers and international arrivals. Unvaccinated residents and non-residents will be able to enter the city without restriction .  

What are the requirements to enter Hong Kong?

With Covid-19 measures now eased in Hong Kong, including arrival restrictions, international travellers looking to explore the city are now free to enter. Of course, if your country requires a visa to visit Hong Kong,  please obtain one before your trip . 

Negative RAT or RT-PCR test results before boarding are no longer required . 

Will they allow entry if my visa is expiring?

If you're not a permanent Hong Kong resident and travelling under a work or tourist visa, ensure your visa has a sufficient validity period, or you will be denied entry. 

The Immigration Department (ImmD) provides electronic services for visa application and 'e-Visa' arrangements , allowing applicants to complete the entire process without going to the immigration office in person. Suppose your visa is under renewal and is getting delayed. It is best to send an authorised representative to the ImmD office to fix your reentry as emails and phone calls will take a long time. 

Visit this link to see ImmD online services for acquiring Hong Kong visas. 

Can arrivals move freely around the city?

Yes, Covid-19 regulations have already eased in Hong Kong. You can freely  explore all the incredible things to do in the city . Mask-wearing mandate, the last major rule to fight against Covid-19, has been lifted since March 1. 

For more clarity,  here's our guide on everything you need to know  about Hong Kong's current Covid-19 restrictions. 

Do I still need to take Covid-19 tests?

You don't need to present negative Covid-19 results when you arrive at the Hong Kong airport, but the government recommends taking daily RAT until the fifth day of arrival (arrival date count as Day 0). Those who take the test may voluntarily declare the result  via the Department of Health's Electronic Covid-19 Monitoring & Surveillance System (eCMSS) .  

Ok, so you finally booked your flight, what to do next?

To ensure a smooth and efficient arrival, prepare all your travel documents, including visa for non-Hong Kong residents. 

What time should I go to the airport for departure? 

Delays, cancellations, and a whole lot of waiting may happen before departure, so make sure to be at the airport at least three hours before your flight. Account for extra time if you encounter any problems with airline check-in. 

Arrival at Hong Kong International Airport

Yes, you're finally in Hong Kong, but not just yet. You still have a few more steps to finish before entering. Though the new system significantly cuts the waiting time in the airport, the influx of inbound travellers may affect processing time.

After landing, all inbound persons will pass through temperature checks upon arrival. Those with symptoms will be referred to the Department of Health for further handling. If you're cleared, you can proceed with immigration procedures, baggage collection, and continue taking public transportation to your hotel or home.

What are the options for airport transfers?

Travellers arriving in the city can take public transport to their destination. Those who want a limousine service can contact their hotels for arrangements.  One of the fastest ways to travel from the Airport to the city is through Airport Express.

Find more information  here . 

What if I tested positive for Covid-19?

Hong Kong government no longer issue isolation orders to infected Covid-19 cases since January 30. The government advises symptomatic persons to stay at home to rest and avoid going out. Those who are asymptomatic can go out at will or go to work.

If you belong to high-risk groups and suffer from fever, cough, shortness of breath, vomiting, and diarrhoea, the government recommends that you seek medical attention. 

For more information, visit this  link .   

Got more questions?

The government has set up a page for all your questions about inbound travel to Hong Kong . Due to the changing nature of Covid-19 measures, please  visit this link  to keep updated with the latest travel regulations. 

Feel free to roam Hong Kong!  These itineraries will give you a dose of inspiration . Looking for hotel accommodations during your trip?  Here's a guide to some of our favourite Hong Kong hotels  – all tried and tested by our editors. You can also check out   the most romantic hotels  in the city or schedule a weekend getaway from the  best beachside hotels ,  boutique hotels , or  luxury camping spots in town .  

You've been gone a while, here's what's new in HK

50 Most incredible things to do in Hong Kong

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The best places to eat in the city, from traditional Japanese and fine French to hipster hangouts, hidden gems, and everything else in between.

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The latest and greatest restaurants to get stuck into this month

New bars to try in Hong Kong now

A  list of new drinking dens to add to your bar-hopping itinerary. 

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Hong kong tourism board, immigration & customs.

Immigration and customs processes in Hong Kong are clear and efficient. Here, we’ve got all the info you’ll need to ensure you’re prepared for a smooth entry so you can just get on with what’s most important: having a good time in the city!

Immigration 

Nationals of most countries do not require a visa to enter Hong Kong for tourism and can stay for periods varying from seven to 180 days, depending on nationality. If you’re unsure of your status, please check with any Chinese embassy or consulate .

More than 100 countries and territories have representative offices in Hong Kong. Their contact details are listed here .  You can also find further details about visa requirements on the Immigration Department website.

With effect from 28 December 2021, the Immigration Department has introduced electronic services for visa applications in phases to allow applicants to complete the entire process of visa-related applications online. Please visit the  Immigration Department website or click here for more details. 

HONG KONG SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION TRAVEL PASS

This pass provides simplified immigration procedures for frequent business travellers who hold valid passports and are eligible to come to Hong Kong without a visa or entry permit for the purposes of a visit.

Eligibility criteria:

• You must have a genuine need to visit Hong Kong frequently, and
• you must have previously visited Hong Kong trouble-free on three or more occasions (not including side visits to the Mainland of China or Macao) in the 12 months prior to the application, or
• the Director of Immigration must be satisfied that your visits may bring substantial benefits to Hong Kong.

Pass holders may use Hong Kong residents' counters for simplified immigration clearance procedures.

Further details about this pass and a downloadable application form can be found on the Immigration Department website .

E-CHANNEL SERVICE FOR FREQUENT VISITORS

Frequent visitors to Hong Kong can now enjoy the convenience of computerised self-service  e-Channels , which provide quick and easy immigration clearance.

• Aged 18 or above;
• Holding a valid travel document and where appropriate, valid multiple visit visa;
• Holding one of the following documents: - HKSAR Travel Pass; - APEC Business Travel Card with ‘HKG’ printed on the reverse side; or - Frequent Flyer Programme membership card issued by airlines which have joined this scheme (please enquire with your airline for details).
• For passengers not holding one of the documents mentioned in item 3: - Holding a valid travel document which is not required to have entry visa/permit for entering the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR); and - Have made visits to the HKSAR by air via the Hong Kong International Airport no fewer than three times in the past 12 months immediately before enrolment for the e-Channel service.
• No adverse record in the HKSAR.

Successfully enrolled visitors can use the Frequent Visitor e-Channels at all control points. Please click  here  for details on the procedure for using the Frequent Visitor e-Channels. 

All visitors entering Hong Kong must go through customs clearance and declare any dutiable commodities exceeding duty-free quotas. Learn more about dutiable commodities and the latest duty-free concessions .

Points to note:

• Import and export of commonly found prohibited / controlled items including dangerous drugs, arms, weapons, animals, plants, endangered species, meat and poultry is governed by Hong Kong’s laws.
• Any import or export of these items must be accompanied by a valid licence, permit or certification issued in advance by the relevant authorities, unless exempted by law.
• While legal in some countries, various personal protection devices, such as 'mace' spray and stun guns, are prohibited in Hong Kong.
• Persons entering or leaving Hong Kong are required to declare or disclose the possession of currency or bearer negotiable instruments totalling more than HK$120,000 to the Customs and Excise Department.
• Cannabidiol (CBD) is classified as a dangerous drug in Hong Kong, and products containing CBD are prohibited. Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance (DDO), trafficking (including importing and exporting) and manufacturing of substances in contravention of the law will be subject to a maximum penalty of life imprisonment and a fine of HK$5 million. Possession and consumption of such substances will also be subject to imprisonment of up to seven years and a fine of HK$1 million. Click here to find out more.

For further details, please visit the Customs and Excise Department website . To avoid any unnecessary delays, please follow the guidelines set by Hong Kong International Airport .

TIPS FOR VISITORS

Many visitors transit in Hong Kong or arrive here after visiting other countries. Due to the variations in legislations of different countries, some items which may be considered legal at other points of embarkation or disembarkation can be considered illegal in Hong Kong.

Details on the types of items that are illegal in Hong Kong, as well as some further tips on safety and security at the airport, can be found here .

AIRPORT SECURITY

All passengers departing from Hong Kong International Airport are required to show their boarding passes and travel documents to airport security personnel at the Departures Immigration Hall. Please find further details here .

CARRY-ON BAGGAGE

Departing visitors and those in transit should note that enhanced security measures are now in effect at Hong Kong International Airport. Visitors are reminded not to include any sharp objects with points or blades in carry-on luggage, such as knives, cutters, scissors, razor blades or household cutlery. Pack such items in your check-in luggage.

Restrictions also apply to carry-on liquids, gels and aerosols, which must be in containers no bigger than 100ml and placed in a single transparent re-sealable bag with a capacity not exceeding one litre (maximum one bag per passenger).

Please find further details here .

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Hong Kong SAR

Visa and transit information.

Passengers visiting or transiting in Hong Kong can learn more about the visa and entry permit requirements at the Hong Kong Immigration Department website.

Passengers travelling on British National (Overseas) passports

The HKSAR government has announced that with effect from 31 January 2021, the British National (Overseas) passport will no longer be recognised as valid travel document or proof of identity.

Passengers travelling with Cathay Pacific to / and from Hong Kong are asked to note the following:

• BN(O) passport cannot be used for immigration clearance in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong residents concerned may continue to use their HKSAR Passports or Hong Kong Permanent Identity Cards for entering or departing Hong Kong;
• BN(O) passport cannot be used as any form of proof of identity in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong residents concerned may continue to use their Hong Kong Permanent Identity Cards as proof of identity;
• When passengers board flights for Hong Kong, airlines concerned must require Hong Kong residents travelling on a British National (Overseas) passport to present their HKSAR Passports or Hong Kong Permanent Identity Cards as proof;
• Hong Kong permanent residents who are not of Chinese nationality and do not hold other valid travel document may apply to the Immigration Department for Document of Identity for Visa Purposes for international travel.

Taiwan China

Pre-arrival registration for taiwan residents entering hong kong.

Taiwan residents who wish to visit Hong Kong can submit their pre-arrival registration online or find out more at the Hong Kong Immigration Department website.

Arrival card for passengers travelling to Taiwan

Effective from 1 July 2015, the Taiwan National Immigration Agency requires all inbound Taiwan foreign passengers to fill in an "Online Arrival Card".

Passengers who are required to fill in an Arrival Card:

• Foreigners without an ROC (Taiwan) resident certificate, a diplomatic ID card or a resident visa.
• Chinese Mainland with a multiple entry and exit permit for the purpose of sightseeing.
• Hong Kong and Macau residents with a single/multiple entry and exit permit, excluding those who enter Taiwan with an online entry permit, landing entry permit or ROC (Taiwan) resident certificate.
• Nationals without household registration and without an ROC (Taiwan) resident certificate.
• Please fill in an Arrival Card for immigration inspection upon arrival each time.
• Please provide complete information when filling in the Arrival Card. If the information is found to be incomplete, you will be required to fill in a paper Arrival Card for immigration inspection.
• The field for your English name only accepts English letters and spaces.
• If Chinese information is required, please enter the information in traditional Chinese.
• Printout is not required.

For more information, please visit Taiwan National Immigration Agency.

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Travel Advisory April 12, 2024

Mainland china, hong kong & macau - see summaries.

Updated due to new national security legislation in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

Summary:  Reconsider travel to Mainland China due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including in relation to exit bans, and the risk of wrongful detentions.

Exercise increased caution when traveling to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws .

Reconsider travel to the Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) due to a limited ability to provide emergency consular services . Exercise increased caution when traveling to the Macau SAR due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws .

See specific risks and conditions in each jurisdiction . 

Consulate Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

One month beyond the date of your intended stay

One page required for entry stamp

Not required for stays under 90 days

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau 26 Garden Road Central, Hong Kong Telephone:  +852 2841-2211, +852 2841-2225, +852 2841-2323   Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +852 2523-9011   Fax:  +852 2845-4845 Email:   [email protected]  

Destination Description

See the U.S. Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Hong Kong for information on U.S.-Hong Kong relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the  Hong Kong Immigration Department  website for the most current visa information. 

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our website.

To enter the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR), you need:

• a passport that is valid for at least one month beyond the date of your intended stay;
• adequate funds to cover your stay without working locally; and
• evidence of onward/return transportation.

You only need a visa if:

• You plan to stay for more than 90 days – obtain an extension with the Hong Kong SAR Immigration Department, if necessary.
• You plan to work or study in the Hong Kong SAR – visas must be obtained prior to departing the United States.

You must possess a valid passport and PRC visa to enter the People’s Republic of China (PRC) from Hong Kong. Further information on travel to and around the PRC is available on our  China International Travel Information and Macau International Travel Information pages.

West Kowloon Train Station:  The West Kowloon Train Station is the terminus of the Hong Kong section of the  Guangzhou–Shenzhen–Hong Kong Express Rail Link  (XRL). Once passengers pass through the Hong Kong immigration exit checkpoint on their way to mainland China inside the train station or on the train itself in that area, they are in the mainland Port Area. Likewise, passengers arriving from mainland China are in the mainland Port Area until they exit the Hong Kong immigration entry checkpoint. 

Health Requirements: There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens. The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of the PRC, including Hong Kong. 

Safety and Security

Since the imposition of the National Security Law on June 30, 2020, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) has demonstrated an intent to use the law to target a broad range of activities such as acts of secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign entities. The National Security Law also covers offenses committed by non-Hong Kong SAR residents or organizations outside of the Hong Kong SAR, which could subject U.S. citizens who have been publicly critical of the PRC and/or the administration of the Hong Kong SAR to a heightened risk of arrest, detention, expulsion, or prosecution. Mainland PRC security forces, including an Office for Safeguarding National Security, now operate in Hong Kong and are not subject to oversight by the Hong Kong SAR judiciary.

Drug and Alcohol Enforcement: PRC law enforcement authorities have little tolerance for illegal drugs, including marijuana and products containing cannabidiol, also known as CBD . Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs in the PRC, including Hong Kong, are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences, heavy fines, or the death penalty.

Hong Kong also has strict laws against driving under the influence of alcohol that can lead to immediate detention on a criminal charge.

Demonstrations:  Participating in demonstrations or any other activities that authorities interpret as violating Hong Kong law, including the National Security Law, could result in criminal charges. On June 30, 2020, as part of its color-coded system of warning flags, the Hong Kong police unveiled a new purple flag, which warns protesters that shouting slogans or carrying banners with an intent prohibited by the law could now bring criminal charges. Any protests that take place without a permit are considered illegal.

U.S. citizens are strongly cautioned to be aware of their surroundings and avoid demonstrations.

If you decide to travel to Hong Kong: 

• Monitor local media, local transportations sites and apps like  MTR Mobile  or  CitybusNWFB , and the  Hong Kong International Airport website  for updates and traffic advisories. 
• Avoid the areas of the demonstrations. 
• Exercise caution if you are in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests. 
• Avoid taking photographs of protesters or police without permission. 
• Be aware of your surroundings. 
• Keep a low profile. 

Hong Kong has a low crime rate. Even so, you should exercise caution when in congested areas and pay particular attention to personal belongings while in crowded areas and while traveling on public transportation. Violent crime, though rare, does occur.

• Take routine safety precautions. 
• Report any concerns to the local police. 
• Call “999,” the local equivalent to “911” 

Please note that mace, pepper spray, stun guns, bullets, switch blades, knuckle-dusters and other self-protection weapons are banned in Hong Kong. 

Do not buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are the bootlegs illegal in the United States, but, if you purchase them, you may also be breaking local law. You may also pay fines or must give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.

Be alert to criminal schemes, such as internet, phone scams and dating scams, as well as financial scams. See the  U.S. Department of State's  and the  U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)'s  pages for information on scams. 

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police at “999” and contact U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau at +(825) 2523-9011. U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should first contact U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime. See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

We can: 

• help you find appropriate medical care.
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• provide a list of local attorneys.
• provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States .
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• replace a stolen or lost passport.

Hong Kong has a crime victim compensation program available to U.S. citizens who are legal residents or tourists in Hong Kong. For more detailed information on the program and its requirements, please see the  Hong Kong Social Welfare Department webpage.  More resources for victims of crime in Hong Kong are available in our  Help for U.S. Victims of Crime in Hong Kong  information sheet. 

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence can/should contact the Hong Kong police and/or U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau for assistance. 

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout Hong Kong. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to Hong Kong SAR laws, including certain PRC laws applied to Hong Kong. If you violate Hong Kong SAR laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business. Furthermore, some crimes are prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  U.S. Department of Justice  website. 

Arrest Notification:

• If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.
• Hong Kong must notify a U.S. consular officer within four days; however, this does not always occur in a timely manner.
• The PRC and Hong Kong SAR governments do not recognize dual nationality. The PRC and Hong Kong SAR governments may prevent the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulates General from providing consular services to dual U.S.-PRC citizens and U.S. citizens of Chinese descent. Please see the page on dual nationality for more information on the limits on consular notification and access to dual nationals.
• A consular officer may be the only authorized visitor during your initial detention period.
• Detention may last many months before a trial.
• U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau is unable to represent you in a legal matter.
• Travelers to the PRC should enroll in the U.S. Department of State’s  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) , and you may wish to have someone contact U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau if you are detained.

Hong Kong law provides for an independent judiciary, but PRC actions have eroded the judiciary’s independence and ability to uphold the rule of law, particularly in cases designated as involving national security. U.S. citizens traveling or residing in the PRC, including the Hong Kong SAR, should be aware of varying levels of scrutiny to which they will be subject from PRC state security and Hong Kong local law enforcement. In Hong Kong, police have the right to detain you for questioning if you are not carrying your passport.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES

Assisted Reproductive Technology:  Hong Kong strictly forbids surrogacy, and surrogacy contracts will not be considered valid. The use of reproductive technology for medical research and profit is strictly controlled.

Controlled Items in Hong Kong:  Hong Kong customs authorities enforce strict regulations concerning controlled items you might be carrying while transiting Hong Kong (temporary importation or exportation). Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) security routinely and thoroughly screens any luggage loaded onto an aircraft in Hong Kong, whether belonging to a departing or transiting passenger. Discovery of weapons or ammunition of any kind—including mace, pepper spray, stun guns, bullets, air gun pellets, switch blades, knuckle-dusters, and other self-protection weapons—during this screening will be referred to the police for investigation, leading to arrest and detention.

If you bring controlled items into Hong Kong without the necessary Hong Kong documents, you may be prosecuted, and the goods may be seized. The penalty for trafficking in dangerous drugs can be life imprisonment and a heavy fine. Among the other items that you must declare to customs officials are liquors, tobacco, cigarettes and cigars, methyl alcohol, and merchandise imported for commercial purposes. There are no currency restrictions for travelers.

The following is a non-exhaustive list of controlled and/or prohibited items:

• dangerous drugs
• psychotropic substances
• controlled chemicals
• antibiotics
• strategic commodities
• rough diamonds
• endangered species
• telecommunication equipment
• powdered formula

Please visit the website of the  Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department  for specific information regarding Hong Kong customs requirements.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection encourages the use of an ATA (Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission) carnet for the temporary admission of professional equipment, commercial samples, and/or goods for exhibitions and fair purposes.

For additional information, please visit the  U.S. Council for International Business website  and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection web page on  Traveling with Samples .

Please see our  Customs Information  sheet for general information.

Dual Nationality:  Dual nationality is not recognized under  PRC nationality law . Be mindful of the following special circumstances for dual nationals when traveling in the region.

Enter the Hong Kong SAR on your U.S. passport to ensure U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau can provide consular assistance in case of arrest or other emergency. Regardless of your travel documents, if you are a dual national, or otherwise have ethnic or historical ties to the PRC, it is possible that Hong Kong authorities will assert that you are a PRC citizen and deny your access to U.S. consular representatives if you are detained.

Your child will be considered a PRC citizen if one or both of the parents are PRC nationals regardless of U.S. citizenship.

If traveling onward to mainland China, enter mainland China on your U.S. passport to ensure U.S. consular protection. See our  China International Travel Information  page for more information.

For further information on consular protection and  dual nationality , please refer to our website.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or must give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.

Cruise Ship Passengers:  Please see our Cruise Ship Passengers page for safety information and travel advice.

Earthquakes:  Earthquakes occur throughout the PRC and have affected Hong Kong in the past. Check here for information about  preparing for a crisis or disaster overseas .

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Reports
• Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  In Hong Kong, there are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Hong Kong. See  Section 6 of our Human Rights Practices in the Human Rights Report for Hong Kong  and read our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information page .

Pets:  You must have a permit to bring dogs and cats into Hong Kong. Dogs and cats imported from the United States may be exempted from quarantine when they have valid health and vaccination certificates and when the animal has been in the United States for at least six months immediately preceding travel.

Additional information on importing pets is available on the  Hong Kong Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department website.

Political Activity:  Participating in unauthorized political activities, including participating in unauthorized public protests, or writing social media posts or other online publications critical of the government,   may result in detention, criminal charges, and/or PRC government-imposed restrictions on future travel to the PRC, including Hong Kong.

Social Media:  Social media accounts are widely monitored in the PRC, including Hong Kong. Social media posts—even content posted outside of Hong Kong—that local authorities deem illegal, including under the National Security Law or other Hong Kong laws, may result in criminal charges against both the poster of the material and the administrator of the social media forum.

Students:  See our  U.S. Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Surveillance and Monitoring:  Security personnel carefully watch foreign visitors and may place you under surveillance. Hotel rooms (including meeting rooms), offices, cars, taxis, telephones, Internet usage, and fax machines may be monitored onsite or remotely, and personal possessions in hotel rooms, including computers, may be searched without your consent or knowledge.

Transferring Money to/From Hong Kong:  The U.S. Department of State may be able to help transfer funds to a destitute U.S citizen overseas through our office in Washington, D.C., to U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau. More information on this option is available on our Sending Money to Destitute U.S. Citizens Overseas page .

Travelers with Disabilities:  Sidewalks often do not have curb cuts and many streets can be crossed only via pedestrian bridges or underpasses accessible by staircase. Assistive technologies for blind people and those with other vision disabilities are unreliable, and access to elevators in public buildings can be restricted. In major cities, public restrooms in places visited by tourists usually have a least one accessible toilet.

Hong Kong law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, and mental disabilities in employment, education, access to health care, or the provision of other state services, and the government generally enforces these provisions. The law mandates access to buildings, information, and communications for persons with disabilities. The  Hong Kong Social Welfare Department  is primarily responsible for coordinating and funding public assistance programs to persons with disabilities. The  Hong Kong Tourism Board  publishes “ Accessible Hong Kong , ” a guide for visitors with disabilities and the  Hong Kong Transport Department  publishes  A Guide to Public Transport for People with Disabilities . In addition, the Hong Kong government created  Cyberable  to provide one-stop information for persons with various disabilities.

Weather:  The southeast coast of the PRC is subject to strong typhoons and tropical storms, usually from July through September. The  Hong Kong Observatory  has an excellent notification and monitoring system and issues typhoon warnings an average of six times a year and heavy rainstorm and hot weather alerts more frequently. Please be advised that if Hong Kong announces a Typhoon Signal 8 or above or Black Rainstorm Warning, U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau will be closed for services. You may find additional information on Check here for information about  preparing for a crisis or disaster overseas  on the Bureau of Consular Affairs website.

For current information, please consult the  Joint Typhoon Warning Center  and the  National Weather Service's Central Pacific Hurricane Center .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Hong Kong, dial 999.

Ambulance services are widely available.

Quality of Care:  Good medical facilities are available, and there are many Western-trained physicians. Hong Kong emergency service response times for police, fire, and ambulances are good.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. 

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage  for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Payment and Insurance:  Travelers will be asked to post a deposit prior to admission to hospitals to cover the expected cost of treatment. Hospitals and clinics generally accept credit cards.

U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau maintains a list of local  English-speaking doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Medication : Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Prescription drugs are widely available, although names may vary. You need a prescription from a doctor in Hong Kong to purchase medications locally. Bring prescription medications to cover your stay in Hong Kong or plan to see a physician in Hong Kong to obtain a new prescription. If traveling with prescription medication, check with the  government of Hong Kong  to ensure the medication is legal in Hong Kong. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. 

Air Quality : Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. The air quality in Hong Kong varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons. It is typically at its worst in the summer.

People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include: 

• Infants, children, and teens;
• People over 65 years of age;
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema;
• People with heart disease or diabetes; and 
• People who work or are active outdoors.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the CDC.

COVID-19 Testing: COVID-19 PCR tests are available at private laboratories and clinics in Hong Kong. The price for these PCR tests generally ranges from 50 to 100 US Dollars. The Hong Kong government maintains a list of recognized laboratories . Rapid COVID-19 tests are readily available at pharmacies and retail establishments throughout Hong Kong.   

COVID-19 Vaccines:  The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizen residents of Hong Kong. U.S. citizens who are not Hong Kong residents are not eligible to receive Hong Kong government-provided vaccines.   Visit the FDA's website to  learn more about FDA-approved vaccines  in the United States.   

For further health information :

• World Health Organization (WHO)
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Road conditions differ significantly from those in the United States. Each year there are approximately 14,000 traffic accidents.

• Traffic moves on the left.
• Speed limits vary depending on location.
• Use of seatbelts is mandatory.
• You can drive using your U.S. driver’s license for up to a year. If you hold a valid U.S. driver’s license and have resided in the United States at least six months, you can apply for a Hong Kong driver’s license. Visit the  Hong Kong Transport Department online  for further details. 

Traffic Laws:  Many traffic violations are similar to those in the United States, including penalties for reckless driving, driving under the influence, and using a hand-held device while operating a vehicle. Hong Kong law requires that all registered vehicles carry valid third-party liability insurance. 

Public Transportation:  Approximately 90 percent of the population in Hong Kong depends on public transport. Taxis, buses, and the mass transit railway (MTR) are readily available, inexpensive, and generally safe. The MTR, an underground railway network, is the most popular mode of public transport, carrying an average of 3.5 million passengers a day. Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed Hong Kong’s Civil Aviation Department (CAD) as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Hong Kong's air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s Safety Assessment Page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Hong Kong should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Maritime Security Communications with Industry (MSCI) web portal. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard Homeport website , and the U.S. National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) Navigational Warnings website .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Hong Kong . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report. 

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Hong Kong & BN(O) Passport Holders Will Need A New Travel Permit To Enter The UK In 2024

Hong Kong passport holders who ordinarily have the right to enter the UK without a visa, will have to apply for a permit called ETA to visit the country by the end of 2024 . The document will be valid for multiple visits to the country for two years . BN(O) passport holders will also need an ETA prior to travelling to the UK from next year.

What is ETA?

The ETA, or Electronic Travel Authorisation, is a travel permit that 82 nationalities with the right to visa-free entry to the UK for up to six months must apply for before they enter the country. It is an electronic document that will be linked to a traveller’s passport.

Visitors to the UK who are normally entitled to visa-free entry to the country only need to apply for an ETA if they plan to enter the country to visit family and friends, for tourism, or to study for a maximum of six months. However, they must apply for a visa if they plan to stay in the UK longer than six months — in which case, they do not need an ETA.

British or Irish passport holders, travellers who ordinarily require a visa to travel to the UK, and those who already have permission to live, work, or study in the nation do not need to apply for an ETA. However, passengers who plan to transit through British airports  to another destination will also need an ETA.

How do I get an ETA?

All UK-bound travellers will need to apply for the permit using the ETA app or by visiting gov.uk . While an applicant can also apply for other travellers, each person must have their own ETA, including children and babies. Visitors must use the same passport they used to apply for the ETA when at any UK border control point.

Each ETA will cost £10 (HK$97) per application, and applicants will get an email confirmation once they are approved for the permit. The approval process will ordinarily take up to three days , but it may take longer if authorities need more time for further checks.

An ETA is valid for two years and can be used for several trips within this time. However, if an ETA holder’s passport expires before this two-year period, they must apply for a new ETA.

When can I start applying for my ETA?

So far, only nationals of Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates will be able to apply for an ETA over the next six months. 

Qatar citizens will need an ETA to enter the UK from November 15, and can start applying from October 25. Nationals of the other nations mentioned will need their ETAs from February 22, 2024, and can start applying from February 1. According to ETA UK , “More nationalities will be added to the scheme later.”

What happens if I can’t get an ETA?

If an ETA application is rejected , the applicant can apply to enter the UK with a Standard Visitor visa, a Temporary Work — Creative Worker visa, or a transit visa, depending on the purpose of their travel.

The UK’s ETA is similar to the ETIAS document that nationalities of 60 countries and territories — including Hong Kong — need to apply for to enter all Schengen countries and three other European nations from 2024. The ETIAS, which is issued to passport holders who have visa-free access to these countries, will be valid for three years and can be used for multiple trips .

Click here to check if you are one of the 82 nationalities who need a visa to enter the UK.

Header image credits: Mo Eid via Pexels/Canva

From the Middle East to the Far East and a couple of places in between, Anjali has lived in no fewer than seven cities in Asia, and has travelled extensively in the region. She worked as a lifestyle journalist in India before coming to Hong Kong, where her favourite thing to do is island-hopping with her daughter. You can check out her musings on motherhood, courtesy her Instagram profile .

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Frequently Asked Questions

This office receives from time to time enquiries relating to HKSAR passports and ID cards. The following FAQs serve as a handy reference and if you cannot find an answer to your question in the following, you are welcome to visit the website on Immigration Department , contact the Hong Kong Immigration Department (email: [email protected] ) or our office.

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Enquiries about HKSAR Passport

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A1: If you are not in the HKSAR but wish to apply for a HKSAR passport, you may submit your application through the diplomatic and consular mission of the Chinese embassy/consulate-general in your respective country (Please click this link to locate the Embassy/ consulate-general nearest to you). The application will then be referred to the HKSAR Immigration Department for processing and the prepared passport will be forwarded to the Chinese embassy/consulate-general for issue. You are then required to collect your passport in person to the Chinese embassy/consulate-general and produce the originals of the supporting documents enclosed with your application for verification

You may also submit your application to the HKSAR Immigration Department directly by post (Immigration Department, Immigration Tower, 7 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong SAR). But if you choose to submit your application in such a way, you will be required to collect your passport in person at the HKSAR Immigration Department with the originals of the supporting documents.

Please kindly note that London ETO does NOT handle application for HKSAR passport.

A2: The passport fee is payable at the time of application. For an overseas application, you are also required to pay an additional charge for the delivery of the passport. The collection of fees does not constitute any assurance that the passport applied for will be issued.

You should enclose with your application a cheque or bank draft made payable to "The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region" in HKSAR currency or US dollars. The cheque or bank draft should be drawn on a bank in HKSAR. If the cheque or bank draft is not drawn on a bank in HKSAR or not in HKSAR currency, a bank handling charge is required. You may also furnish the name and contact address of a local sponsor to pay the fees on your behalf upon receipt of notification from the HKSAR Immigration Department. Please see the up-to-date fees in the fees notice ID852 which can be found here .

A3: For overseas application, under normal circumstances, if you already have a Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card, the processing time will be about 4-6 weeks. If you do not have a Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card , it will take about 6-8 weeks for processing a HKSAR passport application. The time for forwarding the application and dispatching the prepared passport is not included.

A4: You should immediately report the loss to the local police and request a copy of the police report. With the documentary proof of the loss, you may contact the Chinese diplomatic and consular mission of the Chinese embassy/consulate-general in that country and request for replacement of travel document. You may also contact the Assistance to Hong Kong Residents Unit of the Immigration Department through the 24-hour hotline (852) 1868 for assistance. The Immigration Department will provide you with information and assistance regarding the processing of travel document.

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Eligibility

A1: You are eligible to apply for a Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) passport if (a) you are a Chinese citizen; (b) you are a permanent resident of the HKSAR; and (c) you are a holder of a valid Hong Kong permanent identity card.

Generally speaking, according to "the Interpretation of Chinese Nationality Law when applying in the HKSAR" passed by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of the Chinese Government on 15 May 1996, you will be regarded as a Chinese citizen if (i) you are a Hong Kong resident of Chinese descent and were born in the Chinese territories (including Hong Kong), and (ii) you have not made a declaration of change of nationality at the HKSAR Immigration Department. If you remain as a Chinese citizen, your foreign passport will be regarded in Hong Kong and other parts of China as a travel document only and you are eligible to apply for a HKSAR passport. For details about the Chinese Nationality Law, please click here .

A2: A person who is a Chinese citizen and holder of a permanent identity card, will be eligible to apply for a HKSAR passport.

Non-Chinese citizens who want to obtain a HKSAR passport may consider becoming naturalized as Chinese Nationals. Foreign nationals or stateless persons who are willing to abide by China's Constitution and laws and who meet one of the following conditions may be naturalized upon approval of their applications:

• They are near relatives of Chinese nationals;
• They have settled in China; or
• They have other legitimate reasons.

Any person who applies for naturalization as a Chinese national shall acquire Chinese nationality upon approval of his application. A person whose application for naturalization as a Chinese national has been approved shall not retain any foreign nationality. For details, please browse here .

Enquiries about Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card (HKID)

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A1: If you lose your Hong Kong identity card, you are required to notify the Immigration Department within 14 days and apply for a replacement card. For details please click here .

A1: Holders of the old form smart identity card who are outside Hong Kong during their specified call-up periods have to replace identity cards in accordance with the replacement schedule . Smart Identity Card Replacement Centres (SIDCCs) will not accept applications from persons whose respective age groups have not yet been called up. Nonetheless, persons mentioned above need not rush back to Hong Kong for identity card replacement. Even if the specified call-up periods for their age groups have expired when they return to Hong Kong, they can still have their identity cards replaced in person at any one of the SIDCCs within 30 days of their return to Hong Kong. Identity card is mainly used for verification of identity for certain persons within Hong Kong and is not a travel document. It is thus not imperative for residents outside Hong Kong to replace for the new smart identity card.

Upon their return to Hong Kong for replacement for new smart identity cards, they can use their existing Hong Kong identity cards (if not yet invalidated) for immigration clearance. If they are unable to collect their new identity cards in person during the collection period, they may authorise another person to collect it on their behalf and to return their existing identity cards to the Immigration Department. For departure from Hong Kong, they can use other valid travel document for immigration clearance.

A2: The Secretary for Security will at opportune time issue invalidation orders to declare the old form of smart identity cards to be invalid. Before such order is issued, members of the public can still use their existing smart identity cards for immigration clearance as usual. However, if their identity cards are declared to be invalid, members of the public shall use their valid travel documents for entering Hong Kong.

A3: If you are outside Hong Kong during your specified call-up period, you need not rush back to Hong Kong for identity card replacement before the expiry of your specified call-up period. You can still have your HKIC replaced at any one of the Smart Identity Card Replacement Centres within 30 days of your return to Hong Kong. However if you are in Hong Kong, any person who without reasonable excuse fails to apply for a new identity card within the specified call-up periods commits an offence and will be liable to a fine of $5,000 if prosecuted in accordance with Section 7B(3) of the Registration of Persons Ordinance.

A4: New smart Hong Kong Identity Cards issued under the Replacement Exercise are free of charge.

A5: If you are unable to collect your new identity card in person, you can authorise another person to collect it on your behalf. You should notify the registration officer at the time of replacing your identity card and complete an authorisation form (ID678) or a written authorisation. The authorisation form (ID678) is available here .

The authorised representative must have attained 18 years of age. Upon collection of the new ID card, the authorised representative must return your old form of smart ID card for cancellation and produce your notice of collection as well as a completed authorisation form or your written authorisation together with proof of your signature. The authorized representative should also produce his or her valid proof of identity, e.g. Hong Kong ID card, passport or Hong Kong Re-entry Permit.

As long as you remain as a Chinese citizen (e.g. you do not declare change of nationality), you will not lose your status as a permanent resident even if you are absent from Hong Kong for long periods.

For non-Chinese citizen, please watch out that if you have been absent from Hong Kong for a continuous period of more than 36 months since you ceased to have ordinarily resided in Hong Kong, you may lose your status as a permanent resident. For 'circumstances under which a permanent resident of the HKSAR will lose his permanent resident status', please click here .

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A1: No. The issuance of Certificates of No Criminal Conviction (CNCC) is a charged service provided by the Hong Kong Police Force which is solely in connection with a person's application for various types of visa, such as visit, student or resident visa, or for adoption of children. Applications for the Certificate for any other purposes will not be accepted. Applications should be submitted:

(1) By post to: The Commissioner of Police (Attn: EO CNCC) 14/F, Arsenal House, Police Headquarters, 1 Arsenal Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong OR (2) In person / by a representative to the address above OR (3) by Drop-box provided at First Floor of the Arsenal House, Police Headquarters, 1 Arsenal Street, Wanchai, Hong Kong

Please visit here for details

COVID-19 Information

Travel Vaccines and Advice for Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a blend of both Eastern and Western influence with a myriad of architectural wonders, friendly gardens, modern marvels, and traditional experiences.

Hong Kong is identified by four separate and unique areas of the country. A popular attraction is Big Buddha. Stopover at Peng Chau Island on your way to the city center for a native Hong Kong experience.

Make your way to the Hong Kong Island for city life and more. The central area brings the mesmerizing, picturesque skylines to life.

What is Hong Kong?

Hong Kong is a special administrative region or SAR for short.

While it was a British colony for over 100 years, Hong Kong became a SAR under China in 1997. The region operates completely separately from China in politics and financials.

Do I Need a Visa for Hong Kong?

A passport which is valid for at least 1 month past the expected departure date is required to enter Hong Kong. A tourism or business visa is not required for stays less than 90 days. If you are travelling to mainland China via Hong Kong, you must obtain a Chinese visa prior to arrival.

Sources: Embassy of Hong Kong and Canadian Travel and Tourism

Hong Kong is very serious about passport expiration. Make sure you have at least one month’s validity upon exiting the region.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now .

Do I Need Vaccines for Hong Kong?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Hong Kong. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Hong Kong: COVID-19 , hepatitis A , hepatitis B , typhoid , rabies , meningitis , polio , measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) , chickenpox , shingles , pneumonia and influenza .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Accelerated schedule available
• Typhoid – Food & Water – Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
• Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) – Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
• Chickenpox – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
• Shingles – Direct Contact – Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
• Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
• Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.
• Meningitis – Airborne & Direct Contact – Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.
• Polio – Food & Water – Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.

See the tables below for more information:

Japanese encephalitis and chikungunya are present in Hong Kong. Make sure to bring mosquito repellents or netting. JE is found throughout Asia. Vaccination is the best form of protection against the mosquito-borne virus.

What is the Climate Like in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong is mountainous, taking over 70 percent of its geographical area. Hong Kong also has over 200 islands and is considered a subtropical monsoon climate. These reasons make Hong Kong best defined by its four seasons. Here are descriptions:

• Winter – The subtropical climate turns winter into a cool and relatively humid environment. Expect temperatures around 18 degrees.
• Spring – Like the winter but a bit warmer. Humidity is present, though the weather can vary from cloudy to clear. Temperature are in the low 20’s.
• Summer – By far the hottest and most humid time of the year. The humidity brings routine thunderstorms and rain, particularly in June through August. Temperatures can reach over 29 degrees.
• Fall – Fall is the best time to visit Hong Kong. The sunniest of the seasons, temperatures fall are in the high-20’s.

The subtropical climate of Hong Kong is accompanied by monsoons and heavy winds. Tropical cyclones are a risk to be aware of particularly in the summer months.

Hong Kong has a system in place to admit weather warnings for wind and rain severity. Rated on a scale from one to ten, the higher the rating the more severe the weather. Weather patterns rated over eight on the scale are considered serious.

How Safe is Hong Kong?

The Canadian Government rates Hong Kong as an area of low crime. Remain alert in crowded areas and keep belongings close. Always carry identification. If you are a victim of a crime, the emergency phone number is 999, not 911. Emergency services are comparable to the U.S. in response time and quality.

Despite being sold in Hong Kong, some items are illegal if considered pirated. When making purchases, be sure it is from a reliable source. Bringing weapons into Hong Kong, including pepper spray, is only legal with the proper documents.

Transportation wise, Hong Kong has reliable options. Hong Kong drivers operate on the left side of the road. Car rentals are available and Canadians can operate under their U.S. driver’s license for a year after entry. Public transportation in Hong Kong is world class, with buses, taxis and an underground option. All options are considered safe and reliable.

Transportation Tourism in Hong Kong

Must-do’s for travellers in Hong Kong involves unique forms of travel! They start where you first begin your journey, on Lantau Island near the airport. You will find the Ngong Ping Cable Car, a 360 degree 25-minute aerial experience that takes you across the Tung Chung Bay. Arrive at Big Buddha, or the Tian Tan Buddha, the largest Buddha bronze statue in existence.

The other two transportation attractions take place or end on Hong Kong Island. The Star Ferry is a breathtaking and cost-friendly trip across Victoria Harbor to Kowloon. Professional tip, try starting in Kowloon and ending on Hong Kong Island. The views of the city are even clearer. The other must-do is the Peak Tram, a scenic train that takes you to the top of Victoria Peak. Enjoy stunning views of the city below!

What Should I Take To Hong Kong?

Here are recommended items to bring along with you to Hong Kong:

• Sunscreen and Bug Spray – Sunscreen and bug spray are must for Hong Kong. Make sure to use 30+ SPF sunscreen and bug sprays that contain DEET.
• Electronics and Personal Belonging – If you cannot replace it, do not bring it. The risk of theft is low in Hong Kong but it can happen. The less you bring, the better for both travel and replacement purposes.
• Clothing – Proper rain gear is highly recommended for the varying weather and winds. Also, nights can be cold in Hong Kong, particularly during the winter months. Consider packing a heavier jacket. Sturdy shoes are a great idea for exploring.

Canadian Embassy in Hong Kong

Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Hong Kong, the information for the Canadian consulate is:

Consulate General of Canada in Hong Kong and Macao 9th floor, Berkshire House, 25 Westlands Road Quarry Bay, Hong Kong Telephone: (852) 2867 7348 (this line is not for immigration/visa; ce numéro n’est pas pour l’immigration/visa)

Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now !

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On This Page: What is Hong Kong? Do I Need a Visa for Hong Kong? Do I Need Vaccines For Hong Kong? What is the Climate Like in Hong Kong? How Safe is Hong Kong? Transportation Tourism in Hong Kong What Should I Take To Hong Kong? Canadian Embassy in Hong Kong

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How to Renew Your UK Passport in Hong Kong?

From anywhere in the globe, British emigres can apply for, renew and update their UK passports. If you need to renew your British passport in Hong Kong, you must follow the appropriate procedures for applying, paying costs, and receiving your new passport. You must print and mail the information to HM Passport Office, even though the application process is available online.

British passport requirements

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Take a photo with your smartphone, upload it to the website, we will convert it to an official passport photo and send you a digital or printed version. Simple? You can’t get more convenient than that!

You will need the supporting documentation, among others a passport-style photo that meets the British passport photo requirements and satisfies the Identity & Passport Service (IPS) standards. This is a renewal, not a new application, for your British passport. 

If your passport is about to expire, you can apply to renew it when:

• your previous passport is still valid;
• it is still in good condition;
• you do not need to change your nationality or name.

The service is less expensive online, yet it takes six weeks to process a first adult passport and three weeks to renew or change one. Expats can apply for a UK passport or Emergency Travel Documents from the British Embassy or Consulate where they are if they have an urgent need for a passport, such as if a relative has died overseas.

British Embassy in Hong Kong

This is a address for a British consulate in Hong Kong:

British Consulate-General Hong Kong 1 Supreme Court Road Admiralty Hong Kong

• Main switchboard (+852) 2901 3000
• Fax (+852) 2901 3008

If you’re overseas and your passport has been lost, stolen, destroyed, or expired, and you won’t be able to receive a new or replacement passport in time to leave, you can apply for an emergency travel document. If the person who needs an emergency travel document is under the age of 16, a parent or guardian must apply on their behalf.

If you don’t have a recent passport photo , the British Consulate-consular General’s division has a passport picture machine. Please note that the government will only accept applications if you plan to travel within 7 days of your appointment date, and they usually only provide an emergency travel document 1 day before departure unless a visa is required for the location. 

Check if you can receive a new or replacement passport in time for your trip if it is more than three weeks away. Keep in mind that the use of an emergency travel document does not ensure entrance to all countries.

Looking for more tips for your passport application? Look no further:

• How to Get a Passport Urgently: All Options
• Italian Passport Renewal in the UK: A How-to Guide
• Current Passport Waiting Times in the UK [2024 Version]
• Post Office: Passport Applications and Renewals [Full Guide]
• UK Passport Renewal: Australia Guide
• How to Renew Your UK Passport in Canada?
• Children’s Passport Renewal – UK

To renew or replace a passport, it should take 4 (four) weeks from the moment it is received by HM Passport Office in the UK for the application to be completed.

Depends on the type and amount of pages you might pay slightly different prices: 

• Adult Standard 32-page passport £83.00
• Adult Jumbo 48-page passport £91.00

In addition to the passport fee, a courier service fee of £19.86 is also charged.

Make sure you have all the necessary documents for your British National Overseas (BNO) passport before applying. If there are some missing you have 6 (six) weeks to provide them. Not managing to deliver these supporting documents in time will cause your application rejection.

BNO application required documents

• 2 (two) identical passport photos taken within the last 30 days are required;
• BNO passport (original), except if it was lost or stolen (photocopies are not permitted);
• A colour photocopy of both sides of your Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card is required;
• One document dated within the last year proves your name, residence, and/or residency.
• A colour photocopy of your non-British passport (SAR passport) if you are a dual national;

Proving identity and address

• The visa or a residency permit (or a colour photocopy);
• Professional history (eg official letter from your employer)
• Academic records (for example, a school report);
• Tax documents (for example, a letter from the IRS);
• Any letter you receive from the government (e.g. a rate letter);
• Certificate of Baptism or Naming;
• Existing health/medical card;
• Bank or building society’s letter;
• Voter registration card.

Application process

• The BNO must be applied online and paid.
• You’ll need to print and sign a declaration form and return it to them with your supporting documents and photos after you’ve input your information and paid online.
• Go to the government website for British overseas nationals in Hong Kong for more information.

It was pointed out above that you have to be able to apply for your BNO passport renewal or changes in your current passport, extension, etc.

• Create your application by choosing the type of passport you want, personal details (name, date of birth and contact details) and your BNO passport number – details of any non-British passports that you hold. Then, you will be able to check and edit your application before paying.
• You will need to pay by entering your card details to pay (MasterCard, Visa, Visa Electron, Visa Debit or Maestro UK Domestic cards are accepted). After you have submitted your application details and paid online, you will have to print a declaration form and other guidance. You can save the form and print it elsewhere.
• You will find out where to mail the declaration form in the UK: what papers you must include, whether a countersignatory is required and what kind of pictures are acceptable. Afterwards, you can sign the application.

UK passport photo tool

To get the right British passport photo , you can use our photo maker, which is available on the Passport Photo Online website or possible to download on your phone! 

Either you have an iPhone or smartphone with Android, you can get the photo mobile app from AppStore or Google Play . The photo generator resizes, edits, and verifies that your photo meets all of the official criteria of the United Kingdom. 

All you have to do to use this photo tool is open the service (app or website) and upload your ready picture which you just took. What is left to do, leave it to our photo generator! You do not have to worry if your image will be accepted by British authorities because you have a guarantee of a 100% correct photo!

Renew UK passport in Hong Kong: FAQ

To conclude, we’ll answer a few questions about BNO passport applications from Hong Kong.

How long is the BNO passport renewal processing time?

As of August 2022, the authorities indicate times up to 10 (ten) weeks for UK passport renewals from overseas.

Where is the UK Consulate in Hong Kong?

British nationals can find the UK Consulate General in Hong Kong at 1 Supreme Court Road, Admiralty.

What are the opening hours of the British Consulate in Hong Kong?

Their website states that they are available 24/7. For urgent matters, the number (+852) 2901 3000 is available even on holidays.

What are the BNO passport renewal documents?

To get a new British passport for nationals overseas, citizens have to provide these necessary supporting documents: – current British passport – 2 (two) passport photos – proof of residence – a colour copy of both sides of the applicant’s Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card – a colour photocopy of a SAR passport for dual citizens.

How to Renew Your UK Passport in Hong Kong – summing up

If a British citizen is still in possession of their undamaged passport and the data on it is still current, they can opt for a passport renewal. In Hong Kong, the service is available online or through the British Consulate General. If all the documents are in order, it’s possible to receive a new UK passport in under 10 (ten) weeks.

To get new pictures, use Passport Photo Online – our professional service can guarantee perfect pictures to renew a British passport online or at the UK passport office.

• [1] https://www.gov.uk/world/hong-kong
• [2] https://www.gov.uk/overseas-passports

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Justyna graduated from journalism and social communications at the University of Lower Silesia. She is an avid journalist with passion for travels and sport, being also a professional athlete for the past 8 years. Justyna is the author of articles concerning biometric photography.

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Hong Kong invokes a new law to cancel passports of 6 overseas-based activists, including Nathan Law

The Hong Kong government on Wednesday canceled the passports of six overseas-based activists under the new national security law, stepping up its crackdown on dissidents who moved abroad. Those affected were former pro-democracy lawmaker Nathan Law, unionist Mung Siu-tat and activists Simon Cheng, Finn Lau, Johnny Fok and Tony Choi — all accused of endangering national security by the authorities. The government said they have “absconded” to the U.K.

FILE - In this image taken from video, former employee at the British consulate in Hong Kong Simon Cheng speaks during an interview in London, on July 3, 2020. The Hong Kong government on Wednesday, June 12, 2024 canceled the passports of six overseas-based activists including Cheng under the new national security law, stepping up its crackdown on dissidents who moved overseas. (AP Photo)

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HONG KONG (AP) — The Hong Kong government on Wednesday canceled the passports of six overseas-based activists under the new national security law , stepping up its crackdown on dissidents who moved abroad.

Among them were former pro-democracy lawmaker Nathan Law , unionist Mung Siu-tat and activists Simon Cheng, Finn Lau, Johnny Fok and Tony Choi — all accused of endangering national security by authorities in the southern Chinese city. The government said they have “absconded” to the U.K.

Last year, police offered rewards of 1 million Hong Kong dollars ($128,000) each for information leading to their arrests and drew sharp criticism from Western governments.

Authorities also banned anyone from providing funds or economic resources to the six, leasing properties to them or forming any joint venture with them, or risk a penalty of up to seven years in prison.

The government said it acted because the six were continuing to engage in activities that endanger national security, smearing the city and colluding with external forces.

“We have to combat, deter and to prevent those people who have committed the offenses relating to endangering national security through absconds,” said Secretary for Security Chris Tang said. He said the six activists were sheltered in the U.K. and accused some British officials and media outlets of attempting to damage the rule of law in the financial hub and influence judicial decisions in some national security cases.

Tang, when asked whether subscribing to the activists’ accounts on Patreon and YouTube is illegal, said anyone who provides funds to them would be seen as violating the rules, regardless of the platform.

The measures were taken under the new powers granted by Hong Kong’s homegrown national security law enacted in March.

Beijing imposed a similar national security law on the territory in 2020 that has effectively wiped out most public dissent following huge anti-government protests in 2019. Many activists were arrested, silenced or forced into self-exile.

Both the Chinese and Hong Kong governments insisted the law restored stability after the protests.

Over 144,400 people from Hong Kong have moved to the U.K. using a special visa that allows them to live and work in the country and apply for British citizenship after six years. The U.K. introduced the pathway in 2021, in response to the 2020 security law.

Additionally, the British government granted asylum to activists Law and Cheng.

Law said on Facebook he had submitted his passport to U.K. authorities when he applied for asylum in 2020, and has not collected it back, calling the government’s statement “a redundant move.” He urged people who remain in Hong Kong to prioritize their safety if the other restrictions under the new law worry them.

Lau said on X that he never owned a Hong Kong passport, so “it is ridiculous to cancel something that never exists.” He said the latest measure is an act of transnational repression, but that it would not deter him from advocating for human rights and democracy.

Mung also vowed to continued to fight for Hong Kong, while Cheng said the government’s moves were politically motivated and ineffective, adding that their lives in the U.K would not be affected.

In Beijing, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said the measures taken by Hong Kong authorities were legitimate and necessary to safeguard the city’s rule of law and national security. He stressed that the city’s affairs are China’s internal affairs and “brook no external interference.”

Hong Kong’s political changes have long been a source of tension between the U.K. and the city government, as well as with Beijing due to the territory’s unique history as a former British colony that was returned to China in 1997 with a promise to keep freedoms of expression and assembly.

Last week, two British judges confirmed they resigned from the city’s top court , with one citing as the reason “the political situation in Hong Kong.” The other published a strongly worded article on Monday that said the rule of law in the city is in “grave danger” and that judges operate in an “impossible political environment created by China.”

That article drew swift criticism from the Hong Kong government.

In May, U.K. authorities charged three men with agreeing to engage in information gathering, surveillance and acts of deception that were likely to materially assist the Hong Kong intelligence service. One of the trio was later found dead in a park.

Chinese authorities in the U.K. and Hong Kong have decried the charges, saying they were the latest in a series of “groundless and slanderous” accusations that the U.K. government has leveled against China.

What will be impact of Hong Kong passport cancellations on 6 fugitives?

• The Post also looks at whether subscribing to UK-based absconders' YouTube and Patreon accounts violates new curbs on fundraising

The Hong Kong government has exercised new powers under the domestic national security law for the first time to cancel the passports of six wanted activists and prohibit anyone from funding them.

The UK-based fugitives included former lawmaker Nathan Law Kwun-chung and others who were active on platforms such as YouTube, Patreon and Ko-fi, which allowed them to monetise content and raise funds.

Authorities said the latest move was "necessary" to combat and deter absconders who committed offences under the separate, Beijing-imposed national security law.

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge , our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

Security chief Chris Tang Ping-keung on Wednesday warned Hongkongers that it was illegal for anyone to provide or handle funds via "any platform" for the fugitives, whom the government described as "colluding with external forces to protect their evil deeds".

The Post explains the latest restrictions and the impact on the wanted activists' efforts to raise money.

1. Will the cancellations limit the fugitives' ability to travel?

The six wanted activists, all living in the United Kingdom, were among 13 Hongkongers targeted with HK$1 million (US$128,000) bounties last July and December over alleged national security offences.

The security minister moved on Wednesday to cancel their Hong Kong passports under powers granted by the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance.

The legislation, mandated by Article 23 of the city's Basic Law mini-constitution, has been in effect for about 2 1/2 months.

But the cancellations might not limit the fugitives' ability to travel outside the UK if they hold British National (Overseas) passports or other valid travel documents.

Law earlier said on his Facebook page that he had surrendered his Hong Kong passport to the UK Home Office when he sought asylum in the country in 2020. It was not returned to him when he was granted refugee status a year later.

Finn Lau Cho-dik, one of the wanted six, wrote on his X account on Wednesday that he had only ever held a BN(O) passport and had never applied for a Hong Kong one.

Johnny Fok Ka-chi, another fugitive, said on the same day that he held a BN(O) passport, while his YouTube channel co-host Tony Choi Ming-da did not.

It was not known what travel documents were held by the other two absconders - Mung Siu-tat and Simon Cheng Man-kit.

Former security chief Regina Ip Lau Suk-yee, now convenor of the key decision-making Executive Council, conceded that countries hosting the fugitives could issue them temporary travel documents.

The move to cancel the passports could still serve as a deterrent measure, despite the limited impact on mobility, she said.

"It will demonstrate to any potential absconders that the government takes absconding very seriously and there are punitive measures directed against them," she said.

2. How do the funding restrictions harm the absconders financially?

The Hong Kong government said the absconders made "scaremongering remarks" to smear and slander the city, and authorities had therefore barred anyone from providing or handling funds for them.

Law has been active on Patreon, where he charges subscribers HK$40 to HK$795 a month for content ranging from excerpts of his speeches to discussions about "people-to-people diplomacy".

Lau operates an account on Ko-fi with 365 followers. Unlike Patreon, the UK-registered platform does not take commissions on donations.

He earlier pledged on the platform that he would advocate for "lifeboat" settlement programmes and mobilise overseas Hongkongers to join gatherings targeting human rights issues in the city.

Fok and Choi run a current affairs commentary channel called "Tuesdayroad" on YouTube and a Patreon page, on which they monetise their content through ads and encourage supporters to sign up to paid subscriptions.

The pair said the number of Hong Kong-based subscribers on YouTube had "dwindled to nearly zero" since police issued warrants for their arrest last December.

They said they relied on overseas funding, with about 100 subscribers mostly contributing between HK$5 and HK$10 monthly, excluding one-off donations.

3. Is it illegal to subscribe to their Patreon, Ko-fi or YouTube accounts?

The measures targeting funding have no extraterritorial effect.

But security chief Tang said anyone in the city who continued to support the absconders financially would be violating the law.

"It doesn't matter which platform it is. As long as they are providing or assisting them in handling the funding, [they] will be subject to criminal sanction," he said.

Police warned that anyone caught breaching the measures, without an exemption granted by the security minister, could face up to seven years in jail.

Barrister and Exco member Ronny Tong Ka-wah also cautioned local residents against subscribing to the Patreon accounts, as such actions risked violating the law.

"The restrictions aim to ban relevant individuals from continuing to obtain funds to endanger national security. It would be difficult for any subscriber to defend that they were unaware of what they were supporting," he said.

4. Will the platforms remove content or cancel accounts?

Ip said that the domestic national security law included offences related to inciting disaffection and hatred towards the government.

The government could ask online platform operators to remove or cease publishing certain content, she said, pointing to recent examples of such requests made to Google and YouTube over "Glory to Hong Kong", a protest song popular during the 2019 social unrest.

She added that the government could first contact the platforms to request their cooperation before considering the need for a court order if they did not cooperate.

The Post has contacted the platforms for comment.

5. What about the other restrictions on the wanted activists?

Hong Kong authorities also banned anyone from leasing properties to or engaging in "joint ventures or partnerships" with the six.

Anyone caught violating these restrictions could face a maximum seven years in prison.

Fok had his professional qualifications as a barrister in Hong Kong suspended, while Mung and Choi were also removed from their directorial positions.

Unlike the 2020 Beijing-imposed security law, the domestic national security law specifically targets the offences of treason, insurrection, sabotage, external interference, sedition, theft of state secrets and espionage.

The secretary for security may declare an individual charged under the domestic security legislation as an absconder if a warrant for their arrest has been active for at least six months, they have not appeared before a magistrate and are reasonably believed to be located outside Hong Kong.

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This article originally appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), the leading news media reporting on China and Asia.

Copyright (c) 2024. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

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How to apply for a British National Overseas passport from Hong Kong

Use this guide to help you apply for a British National Overseas (BNO) passport from Hong Kong.

How to apply for a BNO passport from Hong Kong (Cantonese)

PDF , 288 KB , 1 page

This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology.

How to apply for a BNO passport from Hong Kong (English)

PDF , 330 KB , 1 page

You can download this guide in English or Cantonese. The guide gives you information on:

• how to apply and pay online
• how to get a digital passport photo
• documents you will need

Read this guidance and then apply for a BNO passport from Hong Kong.

We are aware this publication may have accessibility issues. We are reviewing it so that we can fix these. Read more about our accessible documents policy

Updated guidance for BNO applicants.

Updated guide in English and Cantonese to reflect launch of online passport service from Hong Kong.

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Hong Kong invokes a new law to cancel passports of 6 overseas-based activists, including Nathan Law

The Hong Kong government has canceled the passports of six overseas-based activists under the new national security law, stepping up its crackdown on dissidents who moved abroad

HONG KONG -- The Hong Kong government on Wednesday canceled the passports of six overseas-based activists under the new national security law , stepping up its crackdown on dissidents who moved abroad.

Among them were former pro-democracy lawmaker Nathan Law , unionist Mung Siu-tat and activists Simon Cheng, Finn Lau, Johnny Fok and Tony Choi — all accused of endangering national security by authorities in the southern Chinese city. The government said they have “absconded” to the U.K.

Last year, police offered rewards of 1 million Hong Kong dollars ($128,000) each for information leading to their arrests and drew sharp criticism from Western governments.

Authorities also banned anyone from providing funds or economic resources to the six, leasing properties to them or forming any joint venture with them, or risk a penalty of up to seven years in prison.

The government said it acted because the six were continuing to engage in activities that endanger national security, smearing the city and colluding with external forces.

“We have to combat, deter and to prevent those people who have committed the offenses relating to endangering national security through absconds,” said Secretary for Security Chris Tang said. He said the six activists were sheltered in the U.K. and accused some British officials and media outlets of attempting to damage the rule of law in the financial hub and influence judicial decisions in some national security cases.

Tang, when asked whether subscribing to the activists' accounts on Patreon and YouTube is illegal, said anyone who provides funds to them would be seen as violating the rules, regardless of the platform.

The measures were taken under the new powers granted by Hong Kong's homegrown national security law enacted in March.

Beijing imposed a similar national security law on the territory in 2020 that has effectively wiped out most public dissent following huge anti-government protests in 2019. Many activists were arrested, silenced or forced into self-exile.

Both the Chinese and Hong Kong governments insisted the law restored stability after the protests.

Over 144,400 people from Hong Kong have moved to the U.K. using a special visa that allows them to live and work in the country and apply for British citizenship after six years. The U.K. introduced the pathway in 2021, in response to the 2020 security law.

Additionally, the British government granted asylum to activists Law and Cheng.

Law said on Facebook he had submitted his passport to U.K. authorities when he applied for asylum in 2020, and has not collected it back, calling the government's statement "a redundant move." He urged people who remain in Hong Kong to prioritize their safety if the other restrictions under the new law worry them.

Lau said on X that he never owned a Hong Kong passport, so “it is ridiculous to cancel something that never exists.” He said the latest measure is an act of transnational repression, but that it would not deter him from advocating for human rights and democracy.

Mung also vowed to continued to fight for Hong Kong, while Cheng said the government's moves were politically motivated and ineffective, adding that their lives in the U.K would not be affected.

In Beijing, China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said the measures taken by Hong Kong authorities were legitimate and necessary to safeguard the city's rule of law and national security. He stressed that the city's affairs are China's internal affairs and “brook no external interference.”

Hong Kong's political changes have long been a source of tension between the U.K. and the city government, as well as with Beijing due to the territory's unique history as a former British colony that was returned to China in 1997 with a promise to keep freedoms of expression and assembly.

Last week, two British judges confirmed they resigned from the city's top court , with one citing as the reason "the political situation in Hong Kong.” The other published a strongly worded article on Monday that said the rule of law in the city is in “grave danger” and that judges operate in an “impossible political environment created by China.”

That article drew swift criticism from the Hong Kong government.

In May, U.K. authorities charged three men with agreeing to engage in information gathering, surveillance and acts of deception that were likely to materially assist the Hong Kong intelligence service. One of the trio was later found dead in a park.

Chinese authorities in the U.K. and Hong Kong have decried the charges, saying they were the latest in a series of “groundless and slanderous” accusations that the U.K. government has leveled against China.

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