About Hong Kong
Steamy and gargantuan, Hong Kong has evolved into one of Asia’s most lovable cities. Its incredible skyline – part neon, part steel-and-glass, part towering hills – is one of the most majestic in the world, but it’s a mere backdrop to the 24-hour flurry of activity that makes Hong Kong what it is.
From its boat-buzzed waterfront to its packed dim sum restaurants, its incense-smoked temples to its clattering teahouses, its street markets to its old-world hotels, Hong Kong is a destination teeming with energy. For travellers, the best advice is to go with the flow.
Situated at the mouth of the Pearl River Delta on China’s southwestern coast, Hong Kong is a city that has a remarkable mix of Eastern and Western influences. The handover of this territory from Britain to China was back in 1997, but the centuries of British rule still have a lasting legacy, tangible in everything from the grand period architecture to the local passion for horse-racing.
Even the name of Hong Kong’s centrepiece – the iconic Victoria Harbour – harks back to another era, and today there’s an international flavour to the destination that sets it apart from other Chinese cities. The gastronomy, nightlife and shopping are all world-class.
Hong Kong Island, with its glistening skyscrapers and high-end shopping malls, is in many ways the heartbeat of the city. Get down to street level, however, and the laneways, wet markets and traditional Chinese haunts are a reminder that beyond the city lies a working class populace still making ends meet the old fashioned way – and often the hard way.
It’s also worth remembering, of course, that there’s far more to Hong Kong than the city itself. Its natural attractions include hiker-friendly ranges, volcanic landscapes, pristine woodlands, sleepy islands, protected marine parks and miles of golden beaches.
Key facts
1,104 sq km (426 sq miles).
7,346,248 (UN estimate 2016).
6,468.4 per sq km.
Hong Kong.
Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China.
President of China Xi Jinping since 2013.
Chief Executive John Lee since 2022.
Travel Advice
This travel advice covers the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR). For mainland China, see travel advice for China.
Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for Hong Kong’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.
If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting.
It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.
Hong Kong, like other parts of China, does not recognise dual nationality. There is a risk that those who commit an offence under the National Security Law could be detained and removed to mainland China. For more information, see Local laws and customs.
You should avoid protests and demonstrations. See Political situation.
There are reports of greater scrutiny from mainland authorities at border crossings between the mainland and Hong Kong at this time, See Visits to mainland China
Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Hong Kong, attacks cannot be ruled out. See Terrorism
The typhoon season in Hong Kong normally runs from April to October. See Natural disasters
You should take sensible precautions against pick pocketing and other street crime. See Crime
12,876 British nationals visited Hong Kong in 2022. Most visits are trouble free.
If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.
The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
You can sign up for email alerts to be notified when this travel advice is updated.
Coronavirus travel health
Check the latest information on risk from COVID-19 for Hong Kong on the TravelHealthPro website
See the TravelHealthPro website for further advice on travel abroad and reducing spread of respiratory viruses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Travellers should contact local authorities for information on testing facilities. A test can also be booked at one of the Government’s Community Testing Centres.
Entry and borders
See Entry requirements to find out what you will need to do when you arrive in Hong Kong.
More information and detailed guidelines for International Arrivals are available on the Hong Kong SAR Government Coronavirus web page.
Be prepared for your plans to change
No travel is risk-free during COVID-19. Countries may further restrict travel or bring in new rules at short notice, for example due to a new COVID-19 variant. Check with your travel company or airline for any transport changes which may delay your journey home.
If you test positive for COVID-19, the Hong Kong Government advises you to rest at home and avoid crowded places and mass gatherings.
Plan ahead and make sure you:
- can access money
- understand what your insurance will cover
- can make arrangements to extend your stay and be away for longer than planned
Public spaces and services
Individuals entering certain places such as medical facilities or residential care homes are required to wear a mask. Individuals are no longer required to wear a mask in other public places, including public transport.
For up to date information, you should follow the guidance from the Hong Kong authorities.
Healthcare in Hong Kong
For contact details for English speaking doctors visit our list of healthcare providers.
Your emotional and mental wellbeing is important. Read guidance on how to look after your mental wellbeing and mental health
View Health for further details on healthcare in Hong Kong.
Finance
For information on financial support you can access whilst abroad, visit our financial assistance guidance.
Further information
If you need urgent consular assistance, you should contact your local British embassy, high commission or consulate. All telephones numbers are available 24/7.
Protests and civil unrest
In 2019 and early 2020, large-scale political demonstrations took place throughout Hong Kong, including in areas popular with tourists. There were some violent clashes between police and protesters. Protests are now rare, though may still take place at any time. If you’re in and around areas where there are demonstrations, you should remain vigilant, follow the advice of local authorities and move away quickly to a safe place.
The Hong Kong police have stated that they have discovered Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) on a number of occasions since October 2019. The police believe that devices were intended to target police officers, while more recent devices have been aimed at a wider range of targets. No-one has been injured in these incidents to date, but there is a continuing risk of IEDs being used in Hong Kong.
Crime
The level of violent crime is very low but pick pocketing and other street crime can occur. You should take extra care of passports, credit cards and money in crowded areas and when checking in and out of hotels. If you intend to hike in Hong Kong’s Country Parks you should stick to marked trails and avoid carrying valuables.
Personal attacks, including sexual assaults, are rare but do occur, including through drinks being spiked. You should take reasonable precautions - don’t leave drinks unattended and avoid accepting drinks from strangers. Women, travelling alone or with female friends, could be at greater risk. See advice for women travelling abroad.
Road travel
If you’re visiting Hong Kong, you can drive in Hong Kong with a valid UK driving licence for up to 12 months.
If you’re planning on living in Hong Kong, visit the Hong Kong SAR Transport Department website for more information on applying for a full or temporary driving licence.
If you’re planning to hire a car, check with your car hire company for information on their requirements before you travel.
Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Hong Kong, attacks cannot be ruled out.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public areas, including those visited by foreigners.
There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.
National Security Law
The National Security Law (NSL) entered into force in Hong Kong on 30 June 2020. The law includes offences of secession, subversion, organisation and perpetration of terrorist activities, and collusion with a foreign country, all of which can be interpreted broadly and carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. Both individuals and organisations can face prosecution under the NSL.
The NSL applies to activities conducted both inside and outside Hong Kong, which includes activities conducted in the UK. The National Security Law applies to all individuals irrespective of nationality or residency. Hong Kong’s National Security Police have issued arrest warrants and financial rewards against individuals living outside Hong Kong, including in the UK.
Under the National Security Law, there is a possibility of being detained and removed to mainland China for some offences. The English translation of the legislation is available online.
You should be aware that issuing or supporting political statements critical of the Hong Kong and Chinese authorities, including online and on social media, could be viewed as a crime under the NSL and may lead to prosecution in Hong Kong. Those who support individuals who themselves are deemed to be conducting activities in contravention of the National Security Law could also face prosecution under the same law.
The Immigration (Amendment) Ordinance came in force on 1 August 2021. It contains powers that could prevent people from leaving the Hong Kong SAR. The Hong Kong SAR Government has given undertakings that such powers will not be used and that the ability to remove people from flights will be applied only to stop certain asylum seekers from entering Hong Kong.
Hong Kong, like other parts of China, does not recognise dual nationality. If you have both British and Chinese nationality you may be treated as a Chinese citizen by local authorities, even if you enter Hong Kong on your British passport. If this is the case, the British Consulate-General may not be able to offer you consular assistance. The FCDO has published guidance on nationality in China. If you have formally renounced Chinese citizenship, you should carry evidence that you have done so.
There are on the spot fines for littering and spitting.
The import and re-export of all elephant ivory and its products, including tourist souvenirs, is banned. Offenders could face a fine and/or imprisonment.
Don’t become involved with illegal drugs of any kind. From 1 February 2023 this includes Cannabidiol (CBD). Possession of these drugs can lead to imprisonment.
Don’t take photographs of military installations. Since the 1997 handover, the defence of Hong Kong has been the responsibility of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). All previous British military barracks now belong to the PLA.
The Hong Kong SAR Government has restrictions in place on the quantity of powdered baby formula allowed for persons departing the territory. Penalties for non-compliance are severe. See: Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department website
This page has information on travelling to Hong Kong.
This page reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British Citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Hong Kong set and enforce entry rules. If you’re unsure how Hong Kong’s entry requirements apply to you, contact its UK embassy, high commission or consulate.
All travellers
Although Hong Kong is now part of the People’s Republic of China, it remains a Special Administrative Region (SAR) with its own immigration controls. You can visit Hong Kong for up to 6 months without a visa. For up-to-date advice on entry requirements and restrictions, please visit the Hong Kong SAR Government’s website.
Hong Kong does not require travellers to provide a negative Covid-19 test result to enter the SAR, regardless of your vaccination status.
All travellers must pass temperature checks upon arrival.
Flights may be subject to scheduling change at short notice. Ensure you keep in close contact with your airline and be prepared to change your plans.
Testing on arrival
The Hong Kong Government continues to advise all inbound travellers to conduct daily rapid antigen tests from the day of arrival into Hong Kong (that is, Day 0) and Day 5 after arrival.
If you test positive for COVID-19, you are no longer required to isolate, however please refer to the latest guidance issued by the Hong Kong SAR Government on how to minimise the spread of Covid-19.
Proof of vaccination status
Travellers do not need to be fully vaccinated, or show proof of vaccination to enter Hong Kong.
Travel between Hong Kong, Macao and mainland China
Travellers to mainland China who are transiting Hong Kong from a third country or Taiwan or have stayed in a third country or Taiwan in the last seven days require a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours of arrival in the mainland. Children under the age of three are exempt. All other travellers are not required to test or quarantine when travelling between Hong Kong and mainland China.
Travel between Macao and Hong Kong is test and quarantine free. More information is available on the Macao Travel Advice Page.
All control points between Hong Kong and mainland China or Macao have re-opened. Ferry crossings between Hong Kong and Shenzhen or Macao, and the high-speed rail service connecting mainland China have resumed.
Children and young people
More information and detailed guidelines for International Arrivals are available on the Hong Kong SAR Government Coronavirus web page.
Children aged 3 and over are subject to the same rules as adult travellers unless otherwise stated.
If you’re transiting through Hong Kong
Transit services at Hong Kong International Airport, including those connecting mainland China, have resumed.
Travellers to mainland China who are transiting Hong Kong from a third country or Taiwan or have stayed in a third country or Taiwan in the last seven days require a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours of arrival in the mainland. Children under the age of three are exempt. If in doubt, travellers should check with their travel agent or airline before travelling and check the Hong Kong International Airport website.
All passengers transiting Hong Kong International Airport may be subject to advanced screening measures, including temperature checks. Passengers deemed to have a high temperature will undergo further checks by the Port Health Office at the airport.
Check your passport and travel documents before you travel
Passport validity
Your passport should be valid for at least one month after the date of your departure from Hong Kong.
Visas
If you plan to work or study in Hong Kong, or stay for a period of longer than 6 months you will need to get a visa. For further information contact the nearest Chinese mission with visa issuing facilities or the Hong Kong Immigration Department:
Immigration Tower
7 Gloucester Road
Wanchai
Hong Kong
telephone: 852 2824 6111
Bringing restricted items into Hong Kong
According to Hong Kong law, it’s illegal for visitors travelling to or transiting through Hong Kong International Airport to carry certain items including stun guns, objects with sharp points or edges (e.g. samurai swords) and martial arts equipment (e.g. knuckledusters). Offenders are liable to a severe fine or imprisonment. For a full list of restricted items, visit the website of the Hong Kong Police Force.
Electronic cigarettes
Hong Kong law prohibits travellers from bringing any electronic cigarettes and equivalent alternative smoking products, including heated tobacco products and herbal cigarettes in to Hong Kong. If you are transiting via Hong Kong and do not pass immigration control, you are exempt. For more information visit the Hong Kong Department of Health website.
If you have a health condition, or you are pregnant, you may need specialist healthcare abroad. Check whether your destination country can provide the healthcare you may need and ensure you have appropriate travel insurance for unexpected medical evacuation or local treatment.
See the Coronavirus travel health and Healthcare sections in the Coronavirus page for COVID-19 health information.
At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website. Each country-specific page has information on vaccine recommendations, any current health risks or outbreaks, and factsheets with information on staying healthy abroad. Guidance is also available from NHS (Scotland) on the FitForTravel website.
General information on travel vaccinations and a travel health checklist is available on the NHS website. You may then wish to contact your health adviser or pharmacy for advice on other preventive measures and managing any pre-existing medical conditions while you’re abroad.
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines. For further information on the legal status of a specific medicine, you’ll need to contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country or territory you’re travelling to.
While travel can be enjoyable, it can sometimes be challenging. There are clear links between mental and physical health, so looking after yourself during travel and when abroad is important. Information on travelling with mental health conditions is available in our guidance page. Further information is also available from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC).
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever occur all year round. You should take appropriate precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. UK health authorities have classified Hong Kong as having a risk of dengue virus transmission. For information and advice about the risks associated with dengue fever visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) website.
You may undergo temperature screening at borders. Depending on the results, further medical examinations may be needed.
Medical treatment
Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation. The cost of medical treatment in Hong Kong is high.
If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 999 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
You can only get prescribed medication in Hong Kong after seeing a doctor, unless your prescription obtained from a UK doctor specifically states it will be required in Hong Kong.
You can find information on registered pharmacies on the website of the Hong Kong Drug Office.
The typhoon season in Hong Kong normally runs from April to October. Typhoons sometimes hit Hong Kong and may cause flooding and landslides. Local warnings are issued in advance. Public offices shut down when the ‘Typhoon 8’ signal is hoisted.
You should monitor local and international weather updates from the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) and Hong Kong Observatory. See Tropical Cyclones page for advice on what to do if you’re caught up in a storm.
If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission. If you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad, contact the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in London on 020 7008 5000 (24 hours).
Foreign travel checklist
Read our foreign travel checklist to help you plan for your trip abroad and stay safe while you’re there.
Travel safety
The FCDO travel advice helps you make your own decisions about foreign travel. Your safety is our main concern, but we can not provide tailored advice for individual trips. If you’re concerned about whether or not it’s safe for you to travel, you should read the travel advice for the country or territory you’re travelling to, together with information from other sources you’ve identified, before making your own decision on whether to travel. Only you can decide whether it’s safe for you to travel.
When we judge the level of risk to British nationals in a particular place has become unacceptably high, we’ll state on the travel advice page for that country or territory that we advise against all or all but essential travel. Read more about how the FCDO assesses and categorises risk in foreign travel advice.
Our crisis overseas page suggests additional things you can do before and during foreign travel to help you stay safe.
Refunds and cancellations
If you wish to cancel or change a holiday that you’ve booked, you should contact your travel company. The question of refunds and cancellations is a matter for you and your travel company. Travel companies make their own decisions about whether or not to offer customers a refund. Many of them use our travel advice to help them reach these decisions, but we do not instruct travel companies on when they can or cannot offer a refund to their customers.
For more information about your rights if you wish to cancel a holiday, visit the Citizen’s Advice Bureau website. For help resolving problems with a flight booking, visit the website of the Civil Aviation Authority. For questions about travel insurance, contact your insurance provider and if you’re not happy with their response, you can complain to the Financial Ombudsman Service.
Registering your travel details with us
We’re no longer asking people to register with us before travel. Our foreign travel checklist and crisis overseas page suggest things you can do before and during foreign travel to plan your trip and stay safe.
Previous versions of FCDO travel advice
If you’re looking for a previous version of the FCDO travel advice, visit the National Archives website. Versions prior to 2 September 2020 will be archived as FCO travel advice. If you can not find the page you’re looking for there, send the Travel Advice team a request.
Further help
If you’re a British national and you have a question about travelling abroad that isn’t covered in our foreign travel advice or elsewhere on GOV.UK, you can submit an enquiry, or contact us on Twitter or Facebook. We’re not able to provide tailored advice for specific trips.’
Getting Around Hong Kong
Hong Kong Public Holidays
Hong Kong Food and Drink
Hong Kong Shopping and nightlife