Orientation briefing: Hong Kong

Orientation briefing: Hong Kong1 / 15

Overview

Alert levelNo general travel restrictionOfficial advice updated on 1 April 2026 (FCDO)

2open jobs

2organisations hiring

0violent events in 3 months

Region: Asia

To prepare a mission or a new post: the essential context, region by region. This briefing does not replace your organisation's security briefing on arrival.

Orientation briefing: Hong Kong2 / 15

Socio-political and economic situation

History and context

The UK seized Hong Kong in 1841, and China formally ceded it the following year at the end of the First Opium War. The Kowloon Peninsula was added in 1860 at the end of the Second Opium War, and the UK obtained a 99-year lease of the New Territories in 1898. Pursuant to a UK-China agreement in 1984, Hong Kong became the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) of the People's Republic of China as of 1 July 1997. In this agreement, China promised that, under its "one country, two systems" formula, China's socialist economic and strict political system would not be imposed on Hong Kong and that Hong Kong would enjoy a "high degree of autonomy" in all matters except foreign and defense affairs for the next 50 years.

After the handover, Hong Kong continued to enjoy success as an international financial center. However, growing Chinese political influence and dissatisfaction with the Hong Kong Government in the 2010s became central issues and led to considerable civil unrest, including large-scale pro-democracy demonstrations in 2019 after the HKSAR attempted to revise a local ordinance to allow extraditions to mainland China. In response to the protests, the governments of the HKSAR and China reduced the city's autonomy and placed new restrictions on the rights of Hong Kong residents, moves that were widely criticized as contravening obligations under the Hong Kong Basic Law and the Sino-British Joint Declaration. Democratic lawmakers and political figures were arrested in a widespread crackdown, while others fled abroad. At the same time, dozens of civil society groups and several independent media outlets were closed or disbanded. In 2021, Beijing imposed a more restrictive electoral system, restructuring the Legislative Council (LegCo) and allowing only government-approved candidates to run for office. The changes ensured that virtually all seats in the 2021 LegCo election went to pro-establishment candidates and effectively ended political opposition to Beijing. In 2024, the LegCo passed a new national security law (Article 23 of the Basic Law) further expanding the Hong Kong Government's power to curb dissent.

Political system

presidential limited democracy; a special administrative region of the People's Republic of China

Political situation

Orientation briefing: Hong Kong3 / 15

Ethnic groups, languages, religions

Ethnic groups

Chinese 91.6%, Filipino 2.7%, Indonesian 1.9%, other 3.7% (2021 est.)

Languages

Cantonese (official) 85.4%, English (official) 4.5%, Putonghua (official) 2.2%, other Chinese dialects 2.8%, other 2%, persons under 5 or mute 3.2% (2021 est.)

Religions

Buddhist or Taoist 27.9%, Protestant 6.7%, Roman Catholic 5.3%, Muslim 4.2%, Hindu 1.4%, Sikh 0.2%, other or none 54.3% (2016 est.)

Country profiles: The World Factbook (CIA), public domain, last edition (2025-2026).

Orientation briefing: Hong Kong4 / 15

Economy and society

Economic overview

high-income tourism- and services-based economy; global financial hub; COVID-19 and political protests fueled recent recession; ongoing recovery but lower-skilled unemployment remains high; investing in job-reskilling programs

7.5 MPopulation2025

100 %Urban population2025

$56,983GDP per capita2025

3.5 %GDP growth2025

1.4 %Inflation2025

2.8 %Unemployment2025

95.8 %Internet users2024

100 %Access to electricity2024

Refugees and displaced people

236refugees hosted2025

656refugees and asylum seekers from the country2025

Indicators: World Bank (CC BY 4.0); refugees and displaced people: UNHCR Refugee Data Finder. Latest available year for each figure.

Orientation briefing: Hong Kong5 / 15

Arms bearers

Armed and security forces

Hong Kong Police Force (specialized units include the Police Counterterrorism Response Unit, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau, the Special Duties Unit, the Airport Security Unit, and the VIP Protection Unit)China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) Hong Kong Garrison is responsible for defense duties; the garrison includes elements of the PLA Army, PLA Navy, and PLA Air Force and are under the direct leadership of the Central Military Commission in Beijing and under administrative control of the adjacent Southern Theater Command (2025)

Informative list, to be complemented by your organisation's security analysis and NGO security forums.

Orientation briefing: Hong Kong6 / 15

Warnings and insurance

UK government (FCDO) travel advice. Some guidance is aimed at British nationals; always follow your organisation's instructions.

This travel advice covers the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR). For mainland China, see travel advice for China and for Macao SAR, see Macao travel advice.

Dual Chinese-British nationality

Hong Kong does not recognise dual nationality, and does not recognise the BN(O) passport as a valid travel document or proof of identity. If you hold both British and Chinese nationality, local authorities may treat you solely as a Chinese citizen, even if you enter Hong Kong on a full “British citizen” passport or hold a British National (Overseas) passport. In such circumstances, the British Consulate-General may not be able to offer you consular assistance.

If you have formally renounced Chinese citizenship, carry evidence that you have done so.

See guidance on nationality in China.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

see general advice for women travellers
read our guide on disability and travel abroad
see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
read about safety for solo and independent travel
see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

Get travel advice updates

Follow FCDO:  

Orientation briefing: Hong Kong7 / 15

Recent security

Organised violence events recorded by UCDP, July – September 2026.

No organised violence event recorded in the country over this period.

Orientation briefing: Hong Kong8 / 15

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Hong Kong

Terrorist attacks in Hong Kong cannot be ruled out.

Political situation

Protests and civil unrest

Between 2019 and 2020, large-scale political demonstrations took place in Hong Kong, including popular tourist areas. There were some violent clashes between police and protesters.

Protests are rare but could take place at any time. If you are near a demonstration, follow the advice of local authorities and move away to a safe place.

Crime

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Violent crime is low but pickpocketing and other street crime can happen. Take extra care of passports, credit cards and money in crowded areas and when checking in and out of hotels.

If you plan to hike in Hong Kong’s country parks, stay on the marked trails and do not carry valuables.

Drink spiking and sexual assault

Personal attacks, including sexual assaults, are rare but do happen, including by drink spiking. Do not leave drinks unattended and do not accept drinks from strangers. Women travelling alone, or with other females, could be at greater risk. See advice for women travelling abroad.

Laws and cultural differences

National security laws

The 2020 National Security Law (NSL) includes offences such as:

secession
subversion
organisation and perpetration of terrorist activities
collusion with a foreign country

The 2024 Safeguarding National Security Ordinance includes offences such as:

treason
sedition
unlawful disclosure of state secrets
external interference endangering national security

National security laws can be interpreted broadly and some offences can lead to a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. Individuals and organisations can be prosecuted and are required to comply with national security investigations, including sharing full access to electronic devices.

The national security laws apply to activities taking place inside and outside Hong Kong, including in the UK. The national security laws apply to all individuals regardless of nationality or residency.

Hong Kong’s National Security Police have issued arrest warrants and financial rewards against individuals living outside Hong Kong, including in the UK under the 2020 National Security Law.

You could be detained or removed to mainland China for some offences under the 2020 National Security Law.

Criticising the government

Some people have been prosecuted for publishing or supporting statements that are critical of the Hong Kong or Chinese authorities, including online. You could also be prosecuted for supporting individuals who are considered to be breaking national security laws.

Immigration Ordinance

The Immigration (Amendment) Ordinance came into force in 2021. Under this law, people could be stopped from leaving the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR). However, the Hong Kong SAR government has said these powers will only be used to stop certain asylum seekers from entering Hong Kong.

Public offences

You can get on-the-spot fines for littering, jay walking or spitting.

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

It is illegal to import and re-export elephant ivory and its products, including tourist souvenirs. You could get a fine or prison sentence.

Illegal drugs

Avoid any involvement with illegal drugs, including cannabis. All cannabis products are illegal in Hong Kong, including CBD (cannabidiol) items such as oils, creams, capsules, and food products.

Criminal gangs and individuals in the UK and overseas have been known to coerce people into carrying drugs. Do not allow yourself to be persuaded.

Hong Kong enforces a zero‑tolerance policy toward dangerous drugs and will not tolerate drug‑related activities. If you are found guilty of smuggling, trafficking, possessing, or using illegal narcotics, including while transiting through the airport, you should expect a severe prison sentence.

Airports in Hong Kong have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.

Taking photographs in secure areas

Do not take photographs of military installations.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are visiting, you can drive in Hong Kong with a valid UK driving licence for up to 12 months.

If you are living in Hong Kong, see the Hong Kong SAR Transport Department for information on applying for a full or temporary driving licence.

Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience, a higher minimum age and holding an international driving permit. Check requirements with the car hire company before you travel.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Typhoons

Typhoon season runs from May to November in Hong Kong and may cause flooding and landslides. Follow any local warnings issued in advance. Public offices and public transport will shut down when there is a ‘Typhoon 8’ storm signal.

Monitor local news and check the World Meteorological Organization and Hong Kong Observatory.

Orientation briefing: Hong Kong9 / 15

Health

Health indicators

85.4yearsLife expectancy2024

1.32per 1,000 peoplePhysicians1995

100 %Basic drinking water access2024

Health risks and precautions (official advice)

Before you travel check that:

your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 999 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

check the latest vaccine recommendations for Hong Kong
see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Hong Kong.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Hong Kong

Medical treatment for uninsured foreign visitors to Hong Kong is expensive. You can only get prescribed medication through a doctor unless your UK prescription specifically says the medication will be required in Hong Kong.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Hong Kong where some staff will speak English.

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Hong Kong.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

Orientation briefing: Hong Kong10 / 15

Entry and visas

Your nationality

For other nationalities:

Visa-free (120): Albania, Algeria, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Brazil, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Canada, Chad, Chile, Colombia, Comoros, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Djibouti, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Fiji, Finland, France, Gabon, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Guinea, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Hungary, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kuwait, Lesotho, Luxembourg, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Niger, North Macedonia, Norway, Oman, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Samoa, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, Slovakia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Türkiye, Uganda, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Zambia, Zimbabwe
E-visa to apply for online before travel (49): Afghanistan, Angola, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, Cuba, DR Congo, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, India, Iran, Iraq, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Moldova, Myanmar, Nepal, Nicaragua, Nigeria, North Korea, Pakistan, Palestine, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Togo, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Viet Nam, Yemen
Visa to apply for at the embassy before travel (1): China
Entry currently not permitted (1): Kosovo

Passport Index Data (passportindex.org), MIT licence. Indicative, for a tourist stay; always check with the embassy or consulate. (17 February 2026)

Work visa and humanitarian permit

A tourist visa does not allow you to work: your organisation usually applies for a work or mission visa, with an invitation letter and the NGO's registration with the authorities.
It often takes several weeks: have a passport valid for at least 6 months, photos, diplomas, contract and international vaccination certificate ready.
United Nations staff travel on the laissez-passer with an official visa requested by the agency.

Detailed entry requirements (FCDO, for British travellers)

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Hong Kong’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Hong Kong set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact Hong Kong’s Economic and Trade Office in the UK.

The authorities in Hong Kong no longer accept BN(O) passports for immigration clearance and do not recognise them as valid proof of identity.

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must be valid for at least one month after the date you plan to leave Hong Kong.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Dual nationals

When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.

Other types of British nationals who are exempt from ETA must also carry a valid British passport when entering the UK.

Visa requirements

Hong Kong is part of the People’s Republic of China, but it is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) with its own immigration controls.

You can visit Hong Kong for up to 6 months without a visa. For information on entry requirements see the Hong Kong SAR government website.

To stay longer, to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons, you must get a visa. For further information contact the nearest Chinese mission with visa issuing facilities or the Hong Kong Immigration Department.

Vaccine requirements

To enter Hong Kong, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Hong Kong guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Hong Kong.

You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. Children aged 3 and over must follow the same rules as adult travellers unless otherwise stated.

Bringing restricted items into Hong Kong

It’s illegal for visitors arriving in Hong Kong International Airport to carry items including:

stun guns
objects with sharp points or edges (for example, samurai swords)
martial arts equipment (for example, knuckledusters)

You could be fined or given a prison sentence. See further information from the Hong Kong Police Force.

E-cigarettes

It is prohibited to bring e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, herbal cigarettes, or related devices into Hong Kong, including in personal luggage. From 30 April 2026, possessing any e-cigarette or “Alternative Smoking Product” (ASP) in a public place will be illegal, regardless of whether it is in use. Offences also include selling, manufacturing, promoting, advertising, or possessing e-cigarettes for commercial purposes. Possession of these items or their components can result in imprisonment and substantial fines. Travellers transiting through Hong Kong without passing immigration control are exempt from these restrictions.

CBD (cannabidiol)

Hong Kong classifies CBD as a dangerous drug. All cannabis products are illegal in Hong Kong, including CBD (cannabidiol) items such as oils, creams, capsules, and food products.

Powdered baby formula

There are restrictions on the amount of powdered baby formula you can take out of Hong Kong. If you do not follow the rules, you could face a fine or imprisonment for up to 2 years.

See more information, including exemptions, from the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department.

Orientation briefing: Hong Kong11 / 15

Humanitarian coordination

Before you arrive, register with the coordination bodies: they share alerts, cluster meetings and useful contacts.

Global directory of NGO forums (ICVA)

Clusters: health, nutrition, protection, WASH, food security, shelter, education, logistics, emergency telecommunications and CCCM. OCHA publishes their meetings and contacts in each country where they are activated.

Orientation briefing: Hong Kong12 / 15

Humanitarians on the ground

Organisations hiring in the country, based on open jobs on the site:

OIM · 1HCR · 1

See jobs in Hong Kong Funding ↗Tenders ↗Train in field security

Orientation briefing: Hong Kong13 / 15