Travel advice for Hong Kong

Australia advises a high degree of caution for Hong Kong.

Exercise caution in Hong Kong, where tourists are generally safe but pickpocketing, physical attacks and digital fraud remain risks. Do not disclose personal information in response to unexpected contacts or messages. Avoid public criticism of Hong Kong or Chinese politics and avoid gatherings or activities that could harm government or national security. People who have criticised Hong Kong or Chinese politics anywhere may face entry refusal, arrest or criminal prosecution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Hong Kong because local laws may be enforced arbitrarily. Petty crime, drink spiking, credit card and ATM fraud, and surveillance of online communications pose risks, while serious crime against foreigners is relatively rare. Demonstrations can turn violent and lead to legal action. Be especially cautious in Wan Chai and avoid demonstrations and large gatherings.

Exercise caution in Hong Kong because the national security law allows severe prison sentences for a broad range of politically defined offences. Support for Hong Kong independence and publishing political content on social networks may be treated as violations, and protests and demonstrations may occur. Monitor the situation and avoid gatherings.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Hong Kong and Macao, remain vigilant and avoid protests or unplanned gatherings. Broadly interpreted national security laws in Hong Kong cover offences including secession, subversion, terrorism, foreign collusion, treason, sedition and unlawful disclosure of state secrets; failure to comply with investigations, including device-access demands, is an offence. Guard against street crime and pickpocketing in crowded areas, train stations and markets.

Travel to Hong Kong with caution because criticism of China or Hong Kong, including on social media or abroad, can trigger severe punishment under the national security law. Avoid demonstrations and protests, never use, possess or sell drugs, and do not photograph or film military or security installations. Crime is relatively low, but hurricanes can cause serious damage along the southern and eastern coasts.

Exercise increased caution in Hong Kong because national security laws may be arbitrarily enforced against residents and visitors, including U.S. citizens. Authorities may arrest, detain, expel, or prosecute people for critical remarks, offenses committed overseas, demonstrations, or refusing device access, and may retain devices as evidence. People with dual U.S. and Chinese citizenship, and U.S. citizens of Chinese descent, can face additional security procedures and harassment, so avoid demonstrations.

Take sufficient care throughout Hong Kong because unauthorized protests may occur suddenly, particularly around anniversaries, despite the general calming of protest activity. A police officer was attacked in a busy area of Hong Kong Island on 1 July 2021, and similar unexpected incidents may occur.

Travel to Hong Kong can generally be undertaken safely if usual precautions are followed. Typhoon season runs from May to October, with greater summer risk of heavy rain causing floods and landslides. Follow local warnings, as Typhoon 8 or Black Rain may severely disrupt transport and aviation and close public buildings.

Germany advises normal precautions for Hong Kong.

No travel advisory is in force for Hong Kong; normal precautions apply. Although crime is generally low, guard against pickpocketing and scams, and never disclose personal or bank details to callers claiming to be officials. Carry identification, follow traffic and anti-littering rules, and avoid drugs. Monitor typhoon warnings from May to early November, especially July to September, as floods and landslides can occur.

Take normal precautions when travelling to Hong Kong, but check immigration, visa and customs rules. Visits need no visa for up to six months, although work, study or longer stays require one. Do not bring e-cigarettes or cannabis products, or stun guns, sharp weapons or martial arts equipment when arriving at Hong Kong International Airport. Possessing e-cigarettes in public places becomes illegal from 30 April 2026.