Hong Kong Travel Requirements: Everything You Need To Know

As of February 6, 2023, Hong Kong lifted the requirement for travellers to be fully vaccinated. However, travellers are still encouraged to be vaccinated and must follow testing requirements. A pre-departure test is mandatory for all inbound passengers, who must present either a negative Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) taken within 24 hours of arrival or a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours of arrival.

Upon arrival, all travellers must take a PCR test but do not need to wait for the results at the airport. Travellers who test negative will be issued an amber QR code, which permits them to leave their residence for three days to certain restricted premises. Travellers who test positive must self-isolate for a minimum of seven days.

Hong Kong does not require visitors to obtain a tourist visa. However, a passport that is valid for at least one month beyond your intended return date, proof of a later departure, and adequate funds to support your visit are mandatory.

A valid passport is required for all travellers, including children and infants

A valid passport is required for all travellers to Hong Kong, including children and infants. The passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival, and it is recommended that travellers keep their passport with them at all times during their stay. It is also important to note that the passport must be in good condition, with no signs of damage.

For some nationalities, a visa or other form of travel authorisation may also be required. It is important to check the specific requirements for your nationality before travelling to Hong Kong. In addition, travellers may need to provide proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test, and may be required to undergo additional testing or health checks upon arrival.

Other recommended items to carry when travelling to Hong Kong include proof of travel insurance, proof of accommodation, and supporting documents such as a Certificate of Employment. It is also advisable to have some local currency, as well as a means of payment that is widely accepted, such as a credit card.

A visa may be required, depending on the traveller's country of origin and the purpose of their trip

Hong Kong has different visa requirements depending on the traveller's country of origin and the purpose of their trip.

Visa-Exempt Countries

Citizens of the Philippines, for example, do not need a visa to enter Hong Kong for stays of up to 14 days, whether for tourism, transit, or business purposes. Similarly, U.S. citizens do not need a visa for visits of up to 90 days.

Visa Requirements

For stays longer than 90 days, travellers will need to obtain a visa from a Chinese Embassy or Consulate. Those who plan to work or study in Hong Kong must also obtain the appropriate visa in advance from Chinese authorities. This includes students, workers, and those who plan to stay longer than 90 days as a tourist.

Visa Types

Hong Kong offers several types of visas, including tourist, business, work, and student visas.

Visa Application Process

The visa application process for Hong Kong typically involves submitting the required documents, such as a completed application form, passport photographs, and proof of financial support, to the Chinese Visa Office or a visa agency.

All travellers must pass a temperature check upon arrival

All travellers to Hong Kong must pass a temperature check on arrival. This is a non-negotiable requirement, and it is important to be aware of this before booking your trip. Temperature checks are a vital part of the COVID-19 safety measures that are in place to protect both visitors and residents.

The temperature check is a quick and simple process. Upon arrival, you will be directed to a designated area where a member of staff will use a non-contact thermometer to take your temperature. This is a quick and easy procedure, and you will not need to do anything during this time. The thermometer will be pointed at your forehead, and your body temperature will be displayed on the device.

If your temperature reading is above the accepted level, you will be taken to a separate area for further assessment. This is a standard procedure to ensure the safety of all travellers and staff. You may be asked to rest for a few minutes before your temperature is taken again. It is important to remain calm and follow the instructions of the staff members.

If your temperature remains high, you may be required to take a COVID-19 test. This is to ensure that you are not experiencing a fever due to a potential COVID-19 infection. The test will be administered by a medical professional, and you will need to wait for the results. If the test is negative, you will be allowed to continue your journey. However, if the test is positive, you will be directed to follow the necessary quarantine procedures.

These measures are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone. By complying with these requirements, you can help maintain a healthy environment and contribute to the collective effort to manage the spread of COVID-19. It is important to stay informed about the latest guidelines and requirements before travelling to Hong Kong.

Travellers are encouraged to check for the latest travel advisories and entry requirements before their trip

Hong Kong is a vibrant, multifaceted city with a stunning cityscape. Before planning a trip to Hong Kong, it is important to be aware of the latest travel advisories and entry requirements, as they are subject to change. Here is some key information for travellers to keep in mind:

Visa Requirements:

Hong Kong has visa-free arrangements with many countries, and a Chinese visa is not required to enter Hong Kong for most visitors. However, if you plan to visit mainland China after your stay in Hong Kong, you will need a Chinese visa. Indian nationals must apply for a Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR) to enter Hong Kong. It is recommended to check the latest entry requirements based on your nationality and travel history.

Travel Insurance:

Before your trip, it is advisable to purchase comprehensive travel health insurance to protect yourself against accidents, illnesses, and other unforeseen events.

Documentation:

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Hong Kong. Philippine passport holders, for example, can stay in Hong Kong for up to 14 days without a visa. It is also essential to have supporting documents, such as proof of accommodation, financial capacity, and employment.

COVID-19 Requirements:

As of February 6, 2023, Hong Kong lifted the requirement for travellers to be fully vaccinated. However, inbound passengers must still follow testing requirements. A negative pre-departure test is required, either a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) within 24 hours of arrival or a PCR test within 48 hours. Travellers must keep a photo of their test results for 90 days and be prepared to show them to officials upon request. Additionally, all travellers are recommended to self-monitor their health and continue testing with RATs for the first five days after arrival.

Customs and Prohibited Items:

When entering Hong Kong, travellers must respect the customs laws and declare any cash or financial instruments exceeding HK$120,000 in value. It is essential to be aware of prohibited items, which include dangerous drugs, firearms, and weapons.

Transportation and Getting Around:

Hong Kong has a well-developed public transport system, including buses, minibuses, tramways, and the Mass Transit Railway (MTR) system. The MTR is an affordable and efficient way to get around the city, with fares as low as HK$2.30. The high-speed Airport Express train connects Hong Kong International Airport to the city centre, and a complimentary shuttle bus service is available from the MTR stations to popular hotels.

Accommodation and Attractions:

It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance to secure your preferred options. Hong Kong offers a range of attractions, from the bustling markets of Mong Kok to the serene Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens. The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is a valuable resource for information and tips to enhance your travel experience.

Remember to stay informed about the latest updates and requirements by checking official government websites and resources. Bon voyage!

It is recommended to consult a doctor before travelling to discuss any necessary vaccines or medical considerations

It is highly recommended to consult a doctor or healthcare provider before travelling to Hong Kong to discuss any necessary vaccines or medical considerations. This is especially important if you have any underlying health conditions, are taking any medications, or have specific travel plans that may increase your risk of certain diseases. Here are some key points to consider:

• Vaccinations: Ensure that your routine vaccinations are up to date, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza, and others. Depending on your specific situation and travel plans, your doctor may also recommend additional vaccinations such as Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, or rabies.
• COVID-19 Vaccination: All eligible travellers are advised to complete their COVID-19 vaccination series, including any additional recommended doses, before travelling to Hong Kong.
• Yellow Fever: There is no risk of yellow fever in Hong Kong, and vaccination is not recommended. However, if you are arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission or have transited through such a country, you may need to provide proof of yellow fever vaccination.
• Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A is a risk in Hong Kong, and vaccination is recommended for all travellers. This is especially important if you plan to consume food or drinks from street vendors or untreated water.
• Rabies: The risk of rabies is generally low in Hong Kong, but it may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. If you plan to work directly with wildlife or engage in activities that increase your risk of exposure to animals, consider getting a rabies vaccination.
• Japanese Encephalitis: The risk of Japanese encephalitis is very low for most travellers to Hong Kong. However, if you plan to stay long-term (more than 30 days), make multiple trips to endemic areas, visit rural areas for extended periods, or travel during an outbreak, you may want to consider vaccination.
• Other Considerations: Discuss your travel plans and activities with your doctor to determine if there are any other specific vaccines or medications you may need. This could include malaria prevention, insect repellent, or treatments for motion sickness or traveller's diarrhoea.

Remember to consult a healthcare professional at least a few weeks before your trip, as some vaccines may require multiple doses or take time to become effective. Additionally, review the latest travel advice and requirements from official sources, such as government websites, to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.

Frequently asked questions