IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS of Hong Kong

IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS Visitors to Hong Kong must hold a passport that is valid for at least six months after the planned departure date from Hong Kong. Nationals of most countries are not required to obtain visas and can stay for periods varying from seven days to 180 days, depending on nationality. Check with any Chinese embassy or consulate for the latest status. For more information about Visa requirements, please refer to Visit Visa / Entry Permit Requirements by clicking here. Speedy Immigration Clearance for Frequent Business and Other Travellers For the convenience of regular visitors to Hong Kong, two special passes are available to enable speedier processing through designated Immigration channels : HKSAR Travel Pass (TP) HKSAR Travel Pass (TP) is available to frequent business travellers holding valid passports and are eligible to come to Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) without a visa or entry permit for visit purpose. Applicants should have genuine needs to visit the HKSAR frequently, and have come for visits trouble-free on 3 or more occasions (other than return from side trips to the Mainland of China or the region of Macau) in the 12-month period immediately preceding the application, or can satisfy the Director of Immigration that their visits may bring substantial benefits to the HKSAR. Holders of Travel Passes are allowed to use Hong Kong resident counters for simplified immigration clearance procedures. Details and downloadable application form can be found at the Immigration Department's website. Frequent Visitor Card (FVC) is available to visitors holding valid passports from any country, who have passed through Hong Kong International Airport at least three times in the previous 12-month period. FVC passes can be used only for entry through the airport. Details and downloadable application form can be found at the Hong Kong Airport Authority's website. e-Channels: Frequent visitors can now enjoy the convenience of self-service immigration clearance dedicated Frequent Visitor e-Channel at the Hong Kong International Airport. To qualify, they must hold an HKSAR Travel Pass or APEC Business Travel Card (economy code "HKG") or HK International Airport Frequent Visitor Card along with a valid travel document and a multiple¡Ventry visa (if required). All visitors entering Hong Kong must go through Customs clearance and declare any dutiable commodities exceeding duty-free quotas. View a list of dutiable commodities and latest duty-free concessions. Also, the import/export of dangerous drugs, arms, animals, plants, endangered species, meat and poultry, etc. into or out of Hong Kong is governed by laws. Any import/export of these items must be accompanied by a valid licence or permit issued in advance by the relevant authorities, unless otherwise exempted by laws. Some personal protection devices like 'mace' spray, while legal in some countries, are prohibited in Hong Kong. To avoid any unnecessary delays, please follow the guidelines from Hong Kong International Airport. Carry-on Baggage on Departure & Transit Departing and transit visitors should note that enhanced security measures are now in effect at Hong Kong International Airport. Visitors are reminded not to carry any sharp objects with a point or blade such as knives, cutters, scissors, razor blades, or household cutlery in carry-on luggage. Pack them in check-in baggage. From 21 March 2007, restrictions will also apply to carry-on liquids, gels and aerosols, which must be in containers no bigger than 100ml and placed in a single (maximum one per passenger) transparent re-sealable bag with a capacity not exceeding one litre. Check here for details.

Updated 5 September 2008