hong kong visit visa status

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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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Govt to launch e-Visa

The Immigration Department today announced that it will launch the  electronic services for visa application and  e-Visa arrangement on December 28, under which applicants can complete the entire visa application process online without having to visit an immigration office in person.

Under the new services, eligible applicants can submit their visa applications online through the department's mobile application, its  website or the GovHK website .

Once their applications are approved, applicants can use the online payment service to pay the relevant fee and instantly download the e-Visa, which can be printed and saved as a PDF file on a mobile device.

The e-Visa, including the electronic Notification Slip for Entry Visa/Permit, Notification Slip for Conditions of Stay, and Foreign Domestic Helper - Notification Slip for Extension of Stay and Entry Visa, will replace the existing sticker-type labels for entry visas/permits, extension of stay and more.

After the e-Visa's launch, the department will cease issuing sticker-type labels. Labels including entry visas/permits and extension of stay issued before December 28 will remain valid in accordance with the information stated thereon.

An e-Visa contains a QR code, generated by the department's official encryption key, for anti-forgery purposes.

People can verify the information on the e-Visa by scanning the QR code with the department’s mobile application. But the information cannot be retrieved if other mobile applications are used.

They may also input the information on the e-Visa for verification by using the enquiry service through the department's mobile application, its website or the GovHK website.

The department said the e-Visa arrangement is not applicable to the entry visas/permits issued by Chinese diplomatic and consular missions or the immigration divisions of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government's Mainland offices.

After the implementation of the electronic services for visa application, people may continue to use the existing methods to submit their applications and pay the fee.

The eligibility criteria of relevant applications and fees will remain unchanged regardless of the submission method, the department stressed.

For enquiries, call 2824 6111, or contact the department by fax at 2877 7711 or by email .

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Hong Kong Visa for Tourists: A Comprehensive Guide

Updated: September 6, 2023

Hong Kong visa requirements are fairly clear and easy to understand. Most nationalities are exempt from having a visa. Those who need a visa can apply for one at their nearest Chinese diplomatic mission or consulate. Indian and Taiwanese nationals must register and obtain Pre-arrival Registration prior to arrival in Hong Kong.

Table of Contents

Hong kong tourist visa requirements.

Visa EXEMPT passport holders

180-day entry.

• United Kingdom

90-day Entry

• Antigua and Barbuda
• British Overseas Territories
• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• South Korea
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• Switzerland
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United States

30-day Entry

• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• United Arab Emirates

14-day Entry

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Burkina Faso
• Equatorial Guinea
• Marshall Islands
• Philippines
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Vatican City

* Visa EXEMPTION is for biometric passport holders only. Non-biometric passport holders must apply for a pre-approved visa from the consulate.

Pre-arrival Registration (PAR) REQUIRED passport holders

Visa required passport holders.

• Afghanistan
• Central African Republic
• Congo, Dem Rep of
• Congo, Rep of
• Cote d’Ivoire
• Guinea-Bissau
• North Korea
• Sierra Leone
• Solomon Islands
• South Sudan
• Turkmenistan

Transit Visa REQUIRED passport holders

Visa or Pre-arrival Registration is not needed for direct airside transit and not leaving the airport transit area.

Application Process

Pre-arrival registration (par).

India and Taiwan passport holders must complete Pre-arrival Registration (PAR) online prior to arrival in Hong Kong.

Pre-arrival Registration is required for each individual. If you are traveling as a family, each person in the family must apply for Pre-arrival Registration individually.

Pre-arrival Registration can be done online from anywhere. There are no geographical restrictions.

Each Pre-arrival Registration is linked to a specific passport. So, in the event of loss of passport or passport renewal, a new Pre-arrival Registration must be made.

Pre-arrival Registration for India passport holders

India passport holders must complete Pre-Arrival Registration online at the HK Immigration website prior to arrival in Hong Kong.

The Pre-arrival Registration is valid for 6 months or until the expiration of the passport, whichever is earlier.

The Pre-arrival Registration is for Multiple Entries. Each entry can be up to 14 days.

The following information must be provided while filling out the Pre-arrival Registration online.

• Name in English
• Alias in English
• Marital Status
• Date of Birth
• Place of Birth
• Residential Address
• Contact Telephone Number
• India Passport Number
• Passport Place of Issue
• Passport Date of Issue
• Passport Date of Expiry

The entered information must match exactly with the information on the passport. If any piece of information is slightly mismatched, the Pre-arrival Registration will be deemed as invalid.

NOTE Indian passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Hong Kong.

You can only apply for another Pre-arrival Registration if the current one has already expired.

Pre-arrival Registration for Taiwan passport holders

Taiwan passport holders must complete Pre-arrival Registration online at the HK Immigration website prior to arrival in Hong Kong.

The Pre-arrival Registration is valid for 2 months.

The Pre-arrival Registration can be used for up to 2 entries to Hong Kong. Each entry can be up to 30 days.

• Name in Chinese and English
• Alias in Chinese and English
• Taiwan identity card number
• Taiwan re-entry travel document number and validity

NOTE The re-entry travel document must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Hong Kong.

You can apply for another Pre-arrival Registration if the existing one has already expired or 2 entries have been used.

Documentation

You do not need to upload any documentation for Pre-arrival Registration. You just have to input the required information.

There is no fee for Pre-arrival Registration. It’s free of charge.

Processing Time

The result of pre-arrival registration is immediate. A “notification slip” is generated right away.

Notification Slip

You must check the information on the notification slip for any possible errors. All information on the notification slip must match exactly with the information on the passport. Any discrepancy will deem the notification slip invalid.

You must print the notification slip on an A4 size blank white paper. You must sign the notification slip. You must present the signed notification slip along with your original passport at the first port of entry in Hong Kong.

NOTE The immigration officers at the airport will check if the data on the notification slip matches with the information on the passport. It’s extremely important to input accurate information and verify and confirm the data on the notification slip before printing and signing.

Pre-approved Visa

Application.

In order to apply for a Pre-approved Visa for Hong Kong, you would need a local sponsor in Hong Kong. A local sponsor can be a business or individual. The individual sponsor must be a Hong Kong resident and must prove their relationship with the applicant.

Hong Kong Visitor Visa can be applied in 4 ways

• In-person by your local sponsor in Hong Kong
• In-person by yourself at your nearest Chinese diplomatic mission or consulate
• By Mail or Post

Apply In-Person by Local Sponsor

Your local sponsor can submit your application directly to the following address in Hong Kong. An original passport is NOT NEEDED in this case.

Receipt and Despatch Sub-unit Hong Kong Immigration Department 2/F, Immigration Tower 7 Gloucester Road Wan Chai, Hong Kong

Apply In-Person by Yourself

You can submit your application along with your original passport at the nearest Chinese diplomatic mission or consulate in your country of residence.

Foreigners living in Mainland China can submit their visa application along with their original passport at the Hong Kong Immigration Division in Beijing or Shanghai.

The Office of the Government of the HKSAR in Beijing No. 71, Di’anmen Xidajie, Xicheng District Beijing 100009 People’s Republic of China

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Shanghai 21/F, The Headquarters Building, 168 Xizang Road (M), Huangpu District Shanghai 200001 People’s Republic of China

Note for India passport holders Chinese diplomatic missions and consulates in your country of residence or anywhere WILL NOT accept Hong Kong visa applications from Indian passport holders. India passport holders must apply for a Hong Kong visa directly at the HKSAR Immigration Department in Hong Kong via sponsor, mail or fax. Alternatively, Indian passport holders can request Pre-approval Registration online for entries up to 14 days.

Apply by Mail

If applying by mail, all application forms and supporting documents must be mailed to the following address in Hong Kong. An original passport is NOT NEEDED in this case.

Apply by Fax

In order to speed up the process, the application forms and supporting documents can be faxed to the Hong Kong Immigration Department at the following number.

• +852 28241133

The immigration officials can start your Hong Kong visa process as soon as they receive the fax, but the receipt of the original documents is still required in order to issue the visa if approved. Therefore, you must airmail your original documents immediately after faxing the documents. An original passport is NOT NEEDED in this case.

The following documentation is required

• Completed Hong Kong Visa Application Form ID1003A
• Completed Sponsor Application Form ID1003B
• One recent passport-size photograph
• Copy of passport Id page
• Copy of visa for onward travel (not needed if returning to home country)
• Financial proof (Bank statements)
• Employment proof (Employment letter or pay slips)
• Round trip flight tickets
• Hotel reservation
• Copy of sponsor’s Hong Kong Identity card
• Copy of sponsor’s passport ID page
• Copy of the latest entry stamp in the passport or extension proof (only if the HK sponsor is a resident and not a citizen)

Note The Hong Kong Visa Application Form and Sponsor Application Form can be downloaded online or obtained from any of the Chinese diplomatic missions, consulates or HKSAR government offices.

The fee for the Hong Kong Tourist Visa is currently $190 HKD.

If sending the application to the Hong Kong Immigration Department by post, you must attach a cashier order or bank draft payable to “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region”. The cashier order or bank draft must be issued by a bank that has a connected bank in Hong Kong.

If submitting the visa application through a local sponsor, the visa fee must be paid by your sponsor in cash or by cheque. The cheque must be payable to “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region”.

If submitting the visa application in person at your nearest Chinese diplomatic mission or consulate, the visa fee must be paid in cash.

If submitting the visa application in person at the Hong Kong Immigration Division in Beijing or Shanghai, the visa fee must be paid in cash as well.

The visa processing time is about 4 weeks from the receipt of the documents.

In order to speed up the process, the application forms and supporting documents can be faxed to the Hong Kong immigration department. The immigration officials will start your visa process as soon as they receive the fax, but the receipt of the original documents is required in order to complete the visa process. Therefore, applicants must airmail their original documents immediately after faxing the documents.

Application Tracking

You can track your visa application status online or by calling the 24-hour telephone inquiry system.

• Online: Visa Enquiry System
• Phone: +852 31608663

Visa Result

On successful approval of the visa, a visa sticker is generated and sent to the applicant.

If the visa application was submitted in person by your sponsor in Hong Kong, the sponsor must collect the visa sticker and mail it back to the applicant.

If the visa application was directly submitted by mail or fax, the visa sticker is mailed to the applicant directly by airmail.

The visa sticker must be affixed on a blank page in your passport and must be presented to the immigration officer at the port of entry in Hong Kong.

If the application was submitted to the nearest Chinese diplomatic mission or consulate or at the Hong Kong Immigration Division in Beijing or Shanghai, you will be notified of the visa result. You must then pick up your passport in person.

Priority Visa Service

There is no priority visa service.

Customer Service

For any visa-related queries, you can email or call the Hong Kong Immigration Department at

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +852 28246111

To check the status of your visa application, you can call the 24-hour telephone inquiry number.

Application Withdrawal

There is no formal visa application withdrawal procedure. If you have submitted your visa application by mail/post, you can just ignore or abandon your visa application.

If you have submitted your original passport to the Chinese diplomatic mission or consulate or at the Hong Kong Immigration Division in Beijing or Shanghai, you must go in person and request your passport.

Immigration and Customs

Most airlines do not let you check in online if you need a visa to travel to the destination country.

After check-in, make sure to arrive at the gate a bit early. The airline staff at the gate sometimes would like to go through the visa requirements again.

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the day of travel.

Unlike other countries, Hong Kong does not issue an entry stamp on your passport. Instead, you will be given a landing slip with your name, passport number, date of arrival and conditions of stay granted.

You must retain this landing slip during your entire stay in Hong Kong.

You must also fill out and present the arrival/departure card along with your passport to the immigration officer at the port of entry. The departure card will be detached and given back to you, which you must fill and present on your exit.

Pre-arrival Registration REQUIRED passport holders If you hold a Pre-arrival Registration (PAR), the immigration officer will check the data on the Pre-arrival Registration slip with the information on your passport.

On your exit, you do not need to present the landing slip. You just have to present your original passport and completed departure card.

Make sure to fill out the departure card before heading to the passport control. You will be sent back if your departure card is incomplete.

You may have to go through immigration and customs on your return to your home country or the country you are flying back to. If you are flying back on an Airbus A330/A340/A380 or Boeing 747/777, expect long lines at the immigration and customs.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ: Do you need a visa to visit Hong Kong?

It depends on the country of your passport. Hong Kong offers visa EXEMPTION to quite a few nationalities. India and Taiwan must register to obtain a Pre-arrival Registration slip prior to arrival in Hong Kong. The rest of the nationalities can apply for Hong Kong tourist visas at their nearest Chinese diplomatic missions or consulates.

Hong Kong entry requirements are fairly clear. Hong Kong’s visa policy is not as strict as compared to other countries. Refer to the “Hong Kong Tourist Visa Requirements” section above to confirm if you need a visa for Hong Kong.

FAQ: How to avail Hong Kong Visa on Arrival (VoA)?

Hong Kong does not offer Visa on Arrival (VoA). If you have a visa REQUIRED passport, you must apply for the Hong Kong visa at your nearest Chinese diplomatic mission or directly from the Hong Kong immigration department in Hong Kong.

FAQ: How to apply for Hong Kong visa online?

Unfortunately, the Hong Kong visa process is not online. You can download the forms online but you must apply for the visa in person at your nearest Chinese diplomatic mission or consulate or by post directly from the Hong Kong Immigration Department in Hong Kong.

Exception: India and Taiwan passport holders can register themselves online and obtain a Pre-arrival Registration slip prior to arrival in Hong Kong.

FAQ: What are Hong Kong transit visa requirements?

Visa or Pre-arrival Registration is NOT required for direct airside transit and not leaving the airport transit area.

If flying on different airlines or leaving the airport transit area, then you may have to apply for a transit visa. You can apply for the Hong Kong transit visa at your nearest Chinese diplomatic missions or consulates.

FAQ: How to check Hong Kong visa application status online?

You can track your visa application status online or by calling the 24-hour telephone inquiry number below.

FAQ: What is the minimum passport validity to enter Hong Kong?

The minimum passport validity to enter Hong Kong is 6 months. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Hong Kong.

FAQ: Is a day trip to Macau from Hong Kong considered an EXIT and RE-ENTRY into Hong Kong?

Yes, a day trip to Macau from Hong Kong is still considered as an exit and re-entry into Hong Kong.

On Exit You will go through immigration on your departure at the ferry terminal in Hong Kong. Before boarding the ferry bound for Macau in Hong Kong, you must present your completed departure card, ferry boarding pass and original passport.

On Re-entry When you head back from Macau, on your arrival at the Hong Kong ferry terminal, you will go through immigration. You must grab and fill out the arrival/departure card at the arrival ferry terminal in Hong Kong. You must present the completed arrival/departure card, original passport, and visa or Pre-arrival Registration slip.

Re-entry is considered a fresh entry. So, you will be given a fresh entry (number of days) based on your passport. Indian nationals will get a fresh 14-day entry with their existing Pre-arrival Registration slip.

For Macau visa requirements, refer to the Macau visa guide (coming soon).

Hong Kong tourist visa requirements are fairly clear and easy to understand. Most nationalities are exempt from visas. Those who need a visa can apply at their nearest Chinese diplomatic missions or consulates or directly from the Hong Kong Immigration Department.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

06. Get your zero-fee ATM card

You can manage money internationally in over 70 currencies using  Wise . With a Wise card, you can store and withdraw cash in 40 currencies with zero ATM fees. 

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Travel Advisory June 30, 2023

See summaries - mainland china, hong kong & macau.

Reissued with updates to wrongful detention language and information for the Hong Kong and Macau Special Administrative Regions (SARs).

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 SAR due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws .

Reconsider travel to the Macau 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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• Dependant Visa

Change of Visa Status

• Visa for De Facto Spouse
• Student Visa
• Right of Abode
• Change of Nationality to Chinese
• Hong Kong ID Card
• Hong Kong Passport

A change of status visa application is required when an applicant changes his/her immigration status regardless the current work visa in Hong Kong is still valid or not.

A change of visa status might involve a dependant spouse divorcing and receiving a job offer or an employed person deciding to start his/her own business. In the first instance the applicant has to change from a dependant spouse visa for a work visa, and in the second, a work visa for an investment visa. However, the most common is changing from a visitor visa to a work visa.

Prism’s Visa Consultant Service Involves:

• Provide visa consultation service regarding to the documents required for the appropriate visa application; Prepare a tailor-made document checklist for the applicant; Complete all necessary Immigration forms; Review and organize the collected documents in favor of immigration policy; Suggest alternative documents if the applicant is not able to get the listed documents; Submit the application to Immigration Department; Reply on the applicant’s behalf to all enquiries and correspondence from Immigration Department; Prepare and draft all letters required for submission to Immigration Department; Monitor the application process; Keep the applicant updated on the status of the application; Accept the approval and have the visa endorsed onto the applicant's passport.

Application Procedure:

• 1. Free consultation regarding to the change of status visa application; 2. Advise the applicant and the sponsoring company on their alternatives and the likelihood of success; 3. Obtain the applicant/sponsoring company’s signature on the letter of engagement; 4. Obtain deposit payment; 5. Prepare a tailor-made document checklist for the application; 6. Complete immigration forms, drafts and letters; 7. Review the collected documents to ensure they are correctly presented; 8. Draft all letters required for submission to Immigration Department; 9. Ongoing liaison with Immigration Department; 10. Reply Immigration Department’s enquiries on the applicant’s behalf; 11. Accept the visa approval and have the visa label endorsed onto the applicant's passport.

Documents Required:

• A Change of Status Visa application form ID(E) 91/990A/999A with the applicant’s signatures; A Change of Status Visa application form ID(E) 990B/999B with the sponsor's signatures; Copy of the applicant’s passport; Copy of the documents which fit to the change of visa status’ application.

Processing Time:

• The visa application process normally takes 4 to 6 weeks from the date of submission.
• At the discretion of Immigration Department, the visa is valid for 1 or 2 years.
• No new visa label will be issued if the current visa label is valid for more than 9 months.
• A change in status visa category does not alter the status of the applicant's Hong Kong Identity Card.

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Hong Kong Visa for Indians: Types and Processing Time

Last Update: 08-02-2024

Aditya Jain

⚡Quick Summary

Table of contents, introduction, hong kong visa categories and documents required, hong kong visa status check for indians.

The Hong Kong visas processing times for Indians can vary based on the type you're applying for. Hong Kong tourist visas take 4 weeks of processing time. However, you can skip the wait by opting for instant pre-arrival registration, providing you swift and easy entry into Hong Kong for short visits under 14 days. 

For those planning to work or study in Hong Kong, the process extends to approximately 6 weeks. To stay in the loop and abreast of any changes, rely on Teleport's trustworthy sources for up-to-date information. 

Streamline your travel plans with this insightful guide and make your Hong Kong journey hassle-free.

Feel free to reach out to us if you have any queries or need assistance, our committed team is prepared to offer guidance and support.

Call us at +91 73148 52914 or reach out to us on WhatsApp .

1. Hong Kong Pre-Arrival Registration

Processing time: Hong Kong Pre Arrival Registration gets processed within only 1 working day.

Stay Duration: Indian Travellers can visit visa-free for up to 14 days

Documents Required for Hong Kong PAR:

• Passport with a validity of at least 6 months.

PAR Application Process available online through Teleport:

Teleport collaborates with the embassy to ensure a seamless and timely process for obtaining your Hong Kong Pre-Arrival Registration. To initiate your application, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Go to Teleport's Hong Kong Visa Application platform.
• Step 2: Select the visa type that suits your travel purpose, such as tourist or business.
• Step 3: Choose between Teleport's automatic application feature or manually fill out the form based on your preference.
• Step 4: Enter necessary travel details in the 'Visit Details' section, specifying your planned arrival and departure dates.
• Step 5: Easily pay your visa fees on Teleport, with options for both full payment and initial partial payment.

✅ Teleport efficiently handles the entire application process.

✅ Take advantage of Teleport's expert guidance to enhance your approval chances.

Upon approval, effortlessly download your Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR) from the Teleport Dashboard. Stay informed about your application progress through real-time updates via WhatsApp and email notifications.

Teleport’s Expert Tip

Indian passport holders are advised to finalise their online Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR) well ahead of their scheduled travel date. This proactive approach provides ample time to seek an entry visa if the PAR application is unsuccessful. Passports issued by cities like Kolkata, Chandigarh and Hyderabad have higher chances of PAR being unsuccessful.

2. Hong Kong Visit Visa

Hong Kong Visa Processing time for Indians: Hong Kong tourist visa takes around 4 weeks of processing time.

Application channel: Apply online through the Government portal .

Documents Required for Hong Kong Visit Visa:

• Proof of the applicant's financial standing, e.g. bank statements, savings accounts passbooks, tax receipts, etc. and proof of employment (if any), e.g. company leave letter, salary slips, etc.
• Proof of transportation arrangement, e.g. flight itinerary
• Proof of the proposed leisure visit to Hong Kong, e.g. receipt of joining a package tour to Hong Kong, itinerary, etc. (for leisure visit)
• Proof of the proposed visit to the next destination after visiting Hong Kong, itinerary, etc. (for transit)
• Proof of relationship with the local sponsor (for family visit)
• Proof of the proposed visit to Hong Kong (for purposes of visit other than leisure, transit, business or family visit

3. Hong Kong Study Visa

Hong Kong Study Visa Processing time for Indians: 6 weeks

Documents Required for Hong Study Visa:

• Letter of acceptance from the educational institution
• Applicant's financial support, e.g. bank statements, savings account passbooks, tax receipts and salary slips [if the sponsor is the educational institution]
• Applicant’s recent photograph
• One of the applicant's parents should authorise the sponsor or his/her relative/friend in Hong Kong to be the guardian of the applicant. A consent letter duly signed by both the guardian and one of the applicant's parents should be produced [if the applicant is under the age of 18]

4. Hong Kong Work Visa

Hong Kong Work Visa Processing time for Indians: 6 weeks

Hong Kong Work Visa Requirements for Indians:

• Applicant's valid travel document containing applicant’s personal particulars, nationality, date of issue and expiry of the travel document.
• Hong Kong identity card (if any)
• Financial proof of having any amount sufficient for maintenance during the proposed stay in the HKSAR, e.g. bank statement, saving accounts passbooks, etc.
• Air ticket for returning to your home country or financial proof of having an amount equivalent to the return air fare.
• Proof of acceptance to hold medical, healthcare (including hospitalisation), repatriation and liability insurance to remain in force throughout his/her stay in the HKSAR.

Check Hong Kong Pre Arrival Registration Status via Teleport

If you applied for your pre-arrival registration via Teleport, easily monitor your application status with instant updates through Whatsapp and email. Additionally, you can verify the visa status directly on the Teleport Dashboard:

•  Log in to the Teleport Dashboard.
• Find 'Your Applications.'
• Click on your submitted application to view the current status."

In addition to the online service, you can check the status of your application using the 24-hour telephone enquiry system at (852) 3160 8663.

In conclusion, navigating the process of obtaining a Hong Kong visa can be streamlined with the right guidance. Whether opting for the quick Pre-Arrival Registration through Teleport for a short stay, applying for a Visit Visa, Study Visa, or a Work Visa, understanding the specific requirements is crucial. 

Teleport's user-friendly platform simplifies the PAR application, offering real-time updates and expert tips. For longer stays or specific purposes, the Visit, Study, and Work Visa provide diverse options. 

Remember to plan ahead, submit necessary documents, and stay informed about the status of your application. With proper preparation, securing your Hong Kong visa becomes a smoother and more manageable experience. 

Teleport makes the application process easy with a user-friendly interface, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for Indian travellers applying for Hong Kong  Pre-Arrival Registration.

Contact us for any questions or assistance – our dedicated team is ready to provide guidance and support.

You can reach us by calling +91 73148 52914 or messaging us on WhatsApp .

Safe travels!🌏✈️

What should I do if my visa application is taking longer than the average Hong Kong visa processing time for Indians?

What factors can influence the processing time for a visa to Hong Kong from India?

Can I request an emergency visa processing in case of unforeseen circumstances?

Can Indians Get a Hong Kong Visa on Arrival?

Get your visa by undefined, if you apply today .

Stay duration, visa validity.

✔ 90% visas get issued within days

US imposes visa restrictions on Hong Kong officials in response to passing of tough security law

The United States will impose new visa restrictions on a number of Hong Kong officials over the crackdown on rights and freedoms in the Chinese-ruled territory.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Friday that in the past year China continued to take actions against Hong Kong's promised high degree of autonomy, democratic institutions, and rights and freedoms, including with the recent enactment of a new national security law known as Article 23.

"In response, the Department of State is announcing that it is taking steps to impose new visa restrictions on multiple Hong Kong officials responsible for the intensifying crackdown on rights and freedoms," Mr Blinken said in a statement.

The statement did not identify the officials who would be targeted.

In November, Hong Kong condemned a US bill calling for sanctions against 49 Hong Kong officials, judges and prosecutors involved in national security cases, saying US legislators were grandstanding and trying to intimidate the city.

Officials named in that Hong Kong Sanctions Act included Secretary for Justice Paul Lam, Police chief Raymond Siu and judges Andrew Cheung, Andrew Chan, Johnny Chan, Alex Lee, Esther Toh and Amanda Woodcock.

The United States has imposed visa restrictions and other sanctions in the past on Hong Kong officials blamed for undermining freedoms and announced an end to the special economic treatment the territory long enjoyed under US law.

It has also warned that foreign financial institutions that conduct business with them would be subject to sanctions.

The US Hong Kong Policy Act requires the State Department to report each year to Congress on conditions in Hong Kong.

"This year, I have again certified that Hong Kong does not warrant treatment under US laws in the same manner as the laws were applied to Hong Kong before July 1, 1997," Mr Blinken said, referring to when Hong Kong was handed back to China by Britain.

"This year's report catalogues the intensifying repression and ongoing crackdown by PRC [People's Republic of China] and Hong Kong authorities on civil society, media, and dissenting voices, including through the issuance of bounties and arrest warrants for more than a dozen pro-democracy activists living outside Hong Kong," Mr Blinken said.

The Commissioner's Office of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong said the report and statements issued by Mr Blinken "confused right and wrong" and "stigmatised" Hong Kong's national security law and the city's electoral system.

The threat to sanction Hong Kong officials "grossly interferes" in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs, a spokesperson said in a statement issued on Saturday.

"Instead of acting as the world's policeman and issuing an annual 'Hong Kong Policy Act report', the United States should take time to examine itself."

China's embassy in Washington said it strongly deplored and firmly opposed US threats to "impose unwarranted unilateral sanctions" on Hong Kong.

"The US side disregards facts, makes irresponsible remarks about Hong Kong affairs, and levels groundless accusations" at the Chinese and Hong Kong governments, the embassy posted on its website.

• X (formerly Twitter)

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US to restrict visas for multiple Hong Kong officials

• US imposes visa restrictions on Hong Kong officials over rights crackdown
• Blinken cites ongoing erosion of autonomy by Beijing

The United States announced on Friday that it was “taking steps” to put fresh visa curbs on Hong Kong officials responsible for cracking down on rights in the Chinese city, days after a new national security law came into force.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement that Beijing has “continued to take actions against Hong Kong’s promised high degree of autonomy, democratic institutions, and rights and freedoms” over the past year.

This crackdown, he said, includes the recent passage of “Article 23,” a national security law targeting treason, insurrection, espionage and theft of state secrets, among other crimes.

In response to “intensifying repression” and restrictions on “civil society, media, and dissenting voices,” the State Department “is taking steps to impose new visa restrictions on multiple Hong Kong officials,” the statement said.

Blinken did not elaborate on the visa measures to be taken or the officials to be targeted.

His announcement comes after Washington’s annual review of Hong Kong’s autonomy, a status promised by Beijing when Britain handed over the city in 1997.

“This year, I have again certified that Hong Kong does not warrant treatment under US laws in the same manner as the laws were applied to Hong Kong before July 1, 1997,” Blinken said.

Washington has previously imposed visa restrictions and sanctions on Hong Kong officials it accuses of eroding the rights and freedoms that differentiate the city from the rest of China.

In 2020, the United States also revoked the financial hub’s special trade status in response to the quashing of 2019’s large, and at times violent, pro-democracy protests.

The Hong Kong government rejected the US report, saying that the sanctions and visa restrictions “smack of despicable political manipulation to intimidate the officials safeguarding national security.”

The government said in a lengthy statement the city remained autonomous and that the new security law protected fundamental rights and freedoms.

China’s foreign ministry representative in Hong Kong “strongly condemned” Washington’s latest move as smearing the new security law and interfering in China’s internal affairs.

The annual review of Hong Kong’s autonomy was “a farce that nobody was buying... and should be sent to history’s trash heap,” a spokesperson for the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

Beijing imposed a sweeping national security law on Hong Kong in 2020 to quell the protests.

Article 23, which became effective last week, is an additional, homegrown national security law that officials said was needed to plug security loopholes.

Separately on Friday, the US government-funded news service Radio Free Asia said it had closed its Hong Kong office after the enactment of the new law, citing concerns for the safety of its staff.

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US to impose new visa curbs on Hong Kong officials over rights crackdown

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Reporting by David Brunnstrom and Kanishka Singh; Additional reporting by Farah Master and Jessie Pang in Hong Kong, and Beijing Newsroom; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama, Kim Coghill and William Mallard

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Thomson Reuters

Kanishka Singh is a breaking news reporter for Reuters in Washington DC, who primarily covers US politics and national affairs in his current role. His past breaking news coverage has spanned across a range of topics like the Black Lives Matter movement; the US elections; the 2021 Capitol riots and their follow up probes; the Brexit deal; US-China trade tensions; the NATO withdrawal from Afghanistan; the COVID-19 pandemic; and a 2019 Supreme Court verdict on a religious dispute site in his native India.

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US to impose visa restrictions on Hong Kong officials over rights concerns

US says crackdown by Hong Kong officials includes new national security law targeting treason, espionage and other crimes.

The United States has said it will impose new visa restrictions on a number of Hong Kong officials responsible for cracking down on “rights and freedoms”, days after a draconian national security law went into force in the Chinese-ruled territory.

The law ­- referred to as Article 23 – gives the government new powers to crack down on all forms of dissent on the grounds of alleged treason, espionage, sedition and external interference in Hong Kong’s internal affairs.

Keep reading

What is article 23, hong kong’s new draconian national security law, hong kong passes tough new national security law, china slams critics of hong kong security law, hong kong’s new security law comes into force amid human rights concerns.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday said the legislation could be used to suppress dissent inside Hong Kong and further China’s campaign to intimidate activists abroad.

“In response, the Department of State is announcing that it is taking steps to impose new visa restrictions on multiple Hong Kong officials responsible for the intensifying crackdown on rights and freedoms,” Blinken said.

His statement did not identify the officials who would be targeted.

It came after Washington’s annual review of Hong Kong’s autonomy, a status promised by China when Britain handed over the city in 1997.

“This year, I have again certified that Hong Kong does not warrant treatment under US laws in the same manner as the laws were applied to Hong Kong before July 1, 1997,” Blinken said.

The Hong Kong government said sanctions and visa restrictions “smack of despicable political manipulation to intimidate the officials safeguarding national security”.

China’s embassy in Washington said it firmly opposed US threats to “impose unwarranted unilateral sanctions” on Hong Kong.

“The US side disregards facts, makes irresponsible remarks about Hong Kong affairs, and levels groundless accusations” at the Chinese and Hong Kong governments, the embassy posted on its website.

Washington has imposed visa restrictions and other sanctions in the past on Hong Kong officials blamed for undermining freedoms and announced an end to the special economic treatment the territory long enjoyed under US law.

On Friday, the United Nations-funded Radio Free Asia (RFA) said its Hong Kong bureau was closing because of safety concerns under Article 23.

Bay Fang, the RFA president, said in a statement that the outlet will no longer have full-time staff in Hong Kong but would retain official registration.

“Actions by Hong Kong authorities, including referring to RFA as a ‘foreign force,’ raise serious questions about our ability to operate in safety with the enactment of Article 23,” Bay said.

#HongKong : Less than a week after “Article 23” came into effect, @RadioFreeAsia announced that it will close its bureau. RSF denounces the growing pressure applied on the media by the 🇭🇰 government through the enactment of this draconian legislation. https://t.co/qtniiSZrNy pic.twitter.com/fnoUrDZi87 — RSF (@RSF_inter) March 29, 2024

Cedric Alviani, the Asia Pacific bureau director for Reporters Without Borders, called the broadcaster’s withdrawal “a consequence of the chilling effect applied on media outlets” by the new security law.

“We urge democracies to build up pressure on Chinese authorities so that press freedom is fully restored in the territory,” Alviani said.

Hong Kong ranked 140 out of 180 countries and territories in Reporters Without Borders’s latest World Press Freedom Index.

US to Impose New Visa Curbs on Hong Kong Officials Over Rights Crackdown

A supporter scuffles with police the West Kowloon Magistrates' Courts building during the hearing of the 47 pro-democracy activists charged with conspiracy to commit subversion under the national security law, in Hong Kong, China February 6, 2023. REUTERS/Tyrone Siu

By David Brunnstrom and Kanishka Singh

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The United States said on Friday it will impose new visa restrictions on a number of Hong Kong officials over the crackdown on rights and freedoms in the Chinese-ruled territory.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that in the past year China continued to take actions against Hong Kong's promised high degree of autonomy, democratic institutions, and rights and freedoms, including with the recent enactment of a new national security law known as Article 23.

"In response, the Department of State is announcing that it is taking steps to impose new visa restrictions on multiple Hong Kong officials responsible for the intensifying crackdown on rights and freedoms," Blinken said in a statement.

The statement did not identify the officials who would be targeted.

In November, Hong Kong condemned a U.S. bill calling for sanctions against 49 Hong Kong officials, judges and prosecutors involved in national security cases, saying U.S. legislators were grandstanding and trying to intimidate the city.

Officials named in that Hong Kong Sanctions Act included Secretary for Justice Paul Lam, Police chief Raymond Siu and judges Andrew Cheung, Andrew Chan, Johnny Chan, Alex Lee, Esther Toh and Amanda Woodcock.

The United States has imposed visa restrictions and other sanctions in the past on Hong Kong officials blamed for undermining freedoms and announced an end to the special economic treatment the territory long enjoyed under U.S. law.

It has also warned that foreign financial institutions that conduct business with them would be subject to sanctions.

The U.S. Hong Kong Policy Act requires the State Department to report each year to Congress on conditions in Hong Kong.

"This year, I have again certified that Hong Kong does not warrant treatment under U.S. laws in the same manner as the laws were applied to Hong Kong before July 1, 1997," Blinken said, referring to when Hong Kong was handed back to China by Britain.

"This year’s report catalogs the intensifying repression and ongoing crackdown by PRC and Hong Kong authorities on civil society, media, and dissenting voices, including through the issuance of bounties and arrest warrants for more than a dozen pro-democracy activists living outside Hong Kong," Blinken said, referring to the People's Republic of China.

The Commissioner's Office of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong said the report and statements issued by Blinken "confused right and wrong" and "stigmatized" Hong Kong's national security law and the city's electoral system.

The threat to sanction Hong Kong officials "grossly interferes" in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs, a spokesperson said in a statement issued on Saturday.

"Instead of acting as the world's policeman and issuing an annual 'Hong Kong Policy Act report', the United States should take time to examine itself."

China's embassy in Washington said it strongly deplored and firmly opposed U.S. threats to "impose unwarranted unilateral sanctions" on Hong Kong.

"The U.S. side disregards facts, makes irresponsible remarks about Hong Kong affairs, and levels groundless accusations" at the Chinese and Hong Kong governments, the embassy posted on its website.

"The US should immediately stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs and other internal affairs of China," it said.

U.S.-funded Radio Free Asia said on Friday it had closed its Hong Kong bureau, citing concerns over staff safety after the enactment of the new national security law.

Hong Kong, a former British colony, returned to Chinese rule with the guarantee that its high degree of autonomy and freedoms would be protected under a "one country, two systems" formula.

In recent years, many pro-democracy politicians and activists have been jailed or gone into exile, and liberal media outlets and civil society groups have been shut down.

This month, in a joint statement, 145 community and advocacy groups condemned the security law and called for sanctions on officials involved in its passage, and a review of the status of Hong Kong's Economic & Trade Offices worldwide.

(Reporting by David Brunnstrom and Kanishka Singh; Additional reporting by Farah Master and Jessie Pang in Hong Kong, and Beijing Newsroom; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama, Kim Coghill and William Mallard)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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Beijing vows to ‘resolutely counter-attack’ any US visa restrictions on Hong Kong officials over Article 23 domestic national security law

• Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin warns US over possible travel restrictions floated by Secretary of State Antony Blinken
• War of words follows US report criticising new domestic national security law, as Wang urges Washington to understand 'one country, two systems' governing principle

Beijing has vowed to "resolutely counter-attack" any potential moves by the US to impose visa restrictions on Hong Kong officials over the enactment of the city's domestic national security law .

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin warned against the curbs on Monday, three days after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Washington was considering imposing travel restrictions on Hong Kong officials deemed "responsible for the intensifying crackdown on rights and freedoms".

Wang said Beijing was strongly opposed to Blinken's "so-called report", which he labelled "irresponsible", and had already made its concerns clear to Washington.

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.

"[The United States] confused right and wrong, as well as seriously interfered in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs," he said at a press briefing in Beijing.

Blinken made the comments in a press statement about an annual report submitted to the US Congress as part of the country's Hong Kong Policy Act, which was enacted in 1992. The act gives Washington discretion to treat the city separately from mainland China in areas such as trade and economic engagement.

Wang added that the US had "also seriously violated the principles of international law and the basic norms of international relations".

"If the US imposes visa restrictions on Hong Kong officials, China will resolutely counter-attack," he warned.

Wang said the report smeared the city's national security laws and electoral system, as well as its "democracy, rule of law, human rights and freedoms".

He urged the US to understand the "one country, two systems" governing principle, adding that Washington should respect China's sovereignty and Hong Kong's rule of law.

Blinken said on Friday that the new domestic national security law had "broad and vaguely defined provisions regarding 'sedition', 'state secrets', and interactions with foreign entities", which he claimed could be used to eliminate dissent inside and outside the city as part of what he called China's "ongoing campaign of transnational repression".

Washington-funded Radio Free Asia quits Hong Kong, citing staff safety concerns

In a report published that day, the US State Department said Beijing had taken "new actions that directly threaten US interests in Hong Kong" and Americans living in the city faced "heightened risk of arrest, detention, expulsion or prosecution" if they publicly criticised China.

The Safeguarding National Security Ordinance took effect on March 23, fulfilling Hong Kong's obligations under Article 23 of the city's mini-constitution, the Basic Law.

Hong Kong authorities earlier also condemned the US for "untruthful remarks, slanders and smears", as well as its "political attacks".

On Monday, pro-Beijing representatives staged a protest outside the US consulate in Hong Kong to oppose the potential visa restrictions.

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China to take countermeasures if u.s. imposes visa restrictions on hong kong officials: spokesperson.

China deplores and opposes the so-called 2024 Hong Kong Policy Act Report issued by the U.S. Department of State, and has made strong démarches with the U.S. side, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on Monday, who also noted that if the U.S. imposes visa restrictions on officials of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China will resolutely launch countermeasure.

The U.S. has once again issued a so-called report, attacking and smearing the National Security Law (NSL) for Hong Kong, the electoral system of the HKSAR, and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance. The U.S. discredited Hong Kong's democracy, rule of law, human rights and exercise of freedoms and announced that it is taking steps to impose new visa restrictions on Hong Kong officials which is simply unjustified. None of the accusations are based on truth. The report and the statement constitute serious interference in Hong Kong affairs and China's domestic affairs, and a grave violation of the principles of international law and the basic norms governing international relations. China deplores and opposes this, and has made strong démarches to the U.S., the spokesperson said.

The U.S. State Department released its 2024 Hong Kong Policy Act Report on Friday and announced that it is taking steps to impose new visa restrictions on multiple Hong Kong officials over the "crackdown on rights and freedoms," toward which the HKSAR government, local officials and experts in Hong Kong voiced the strong opposition.

The spokesperson also emphasized that Hong Kong is China's Hong Kong, and Hong Kong affairs are purely China's internal affairs. The Chinese government has unwavering resolve in safeguarding its national sovereignty, security and development interests, in implementing One Country, Two Systems and in opposing any external interference in Hong Kong's affairs.

We urge the U.S. to abide by the principles of international law and the basic norms governing international relations and accurately understand One Country, Two Systems in its entirety. The U.S. needs to respect China's sovereignty and the rule of law in the HKSAR, and stop interfering in Hong Kong's affairs by any means, Wang said.

"If the U.S. does impose visa restrictions on officials of the HKSAR, China will take firm countermeasures," he said.

Since the return of Hong Kong, the central government has fully, faithfully and firmly implemented the principles of One Country, Two Systems, Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong and a high degree of autonomy, said Wang.

The constitutional order in Hong Kong based on China's Constitution and the Basic Law of the HKSAR has been stable and functioned well, the spokesperson said.

The central government has exercised overall jurisdiction over Hong Kong. The high degree of autonomy has been practiced as it should.

The formulation and implementation of the NSL for Hong Kong and the ordinance, along with the amendments and improvements to Hong Kong's electoral system, have built a solid defense to safeguard national security, which ensures that the principle of "patriots administering Hong Kong" is implemented.

It also effectively guarantees the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong, and genuinely upholds the various rights and freedoms legally entitled to Hong Kong residents. Hong Kong has achieved a significant transition from chaos to governance and from governance to prosperity. The cause of One Country, Two Systems will continue in the correct direction with stability and longevity, the spokesperson added.

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If the registrant is granted permission to land in the HKSAR, he/she will be issued with a landing slip containing his/her name, Indian passport number and the conditions and limit of stay in the HKSAR.

A person admitted as a visitor in the HKSAR is not allowed to take any employment, whether paid or unpaid; establish or join in any business; or become a student at a school, university or other educational institution in the HKSAR.

When applying for pre-arrival registration, the registrant must truthfully enter the correct information.  The information the registrant provides in the pre-arrival registration needs to be exactly the same as it appears in his/her passport and he/she must use the same passport that is linked to it when visiting the HKSAR.   Failure to do so will render his/her pre-arrival registration invalid.  An invalid pre-arrival registration will lead to refusal of the registrant’s boarding of a conveyance (a ship, aircraft, vehicle or any other means whatsoever of travel or transport) bound for the HKSAR and refusal of entry to the HKSAR upon arrival.

Any person who knowingly and wilfully makes a statement or gives information which he/she knows to be false or does not believe to be true may be liable for prosecution under the Laws of Hong Kong.

Online Demo : Pre-arrival Registration for Indian Nationals

• Frequently Asked Questions about Pre-arrival Registration for Indian Nationals
• Guidance Notes
• Visit Visa / Entry Permit Requirements for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
• Entry for Visit/Transit in Hong Kong
• Permissible activities for visitors