Hong Kong

Large-scale demonstrations have been ongoing across Hong Kong since 9 June 2019. A number of protests have resulted in violent confrontations between protestors and police, or opposing groups or criminally linked individuals, and there have been some targeted individual attacks. Violent clashes are more likely to occur in the evening.

Emergency laws have been introduced. These ban face coverings in public assemblies and give police additional powers to physically verify the identity of individuals. Further measures could be introduced at short notice.

'Flash mob' demonstrations can take place with little or no warning. In recent protests, petrol bombs have been thrown, barricades built and fires lit in the streets. MTR stations, shopping malls and businesses have been vandalised. Hong Kong Police have reported the seizure of explosives materials. Media and police reported the explosion of a remote controlled improvised explosive device targeting police. 

Unauthorised demonstrations are met by a more rapid and severe police response. Police have used tear gas, live ammunition, rubber bullets and pepper spray. Water cannons with dye have also been used. Additional enforcement measures could be used.

If there are signs of disorder, move away quickly and seek shelter in a safe place.

Expect road closures and disruption to public transport and other services. Shopping centres, businesses and the MTR, including the airport express may close or suspend services at short notice. Enhanced access controls at Hong Kong International Airport continue to be enforced. Check with your airline or via the airport's website (www.hongkongairport.com), "HKG My Flight" app, or www.MTR.com.hk for updated transport information.

Increased screening, including of digital devices, is possible for travellers crossing between Hong Kong and mainland China.  

To stay safe during civil unrest:

• avoid large gatherings and protests
• monitor the media for possible unrest and avoid those areas
• follow the advice of local authorities

What to do if you are exposed to tear gas:

• As quickly and calmly as you can, remove yourself from the gas-filled area and seek fresh air and oxygen.
• Remove contact lenses and rinse the eyes with lukewarm water for at least 10-15 minutes and seek medical advice.
• If you have inhaled tear gas or suffered skin irritation and symptoms persist for longer than 30 minutes, seek medical advice.

More information:

• Transport Department – special traffic news
• Demonstrations and civil unrest
• Hong Kong Police Facebook
• Hong Kong Police Twitter: @hkpoliceforce
• Local media: https://www.scmp.com/ or https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorist threats

Petty crime

There's little violent crime in Hong Kong. You could encounter pickpocketing and street theft.

Thieves target tourist spots and crowded places such as markets and trains.

Take care of your belongings, especially in crowded places.

Drink spiking

Foreigners have had drinks spiked in bars and nightclubs. Drink spiking may be combined with theft or credit card fraud. 

To reduce your risk of drink spiking:

• don't accept drinks, food, gum or cigarettes from strangers or new friends
• don't leave food or drinks unattended

More information:

• Partying safely

Scams

Scams against Australian travellers are increasing.

Criminals sometimes present themselves as people in need.

One scam starts via the internet. A person might offer you gift cards or money to help carry someone's luggage on an international flight. They may ask for your money, credit card or online bank account details.

Other reported scams involve:

• fake arrests
• property
• holiday club or timeshare schemes
• scratch lottery tickets
• foreign lottery schemes
• relationships

Be wary of strangers asking for your help.

Never carry anything for anyone you don't know and trust, especially when crossing international borders. There's a risk that criminals have hidden drugs or other illegal items inside.

To avoid becoming a victim of a scam:

• don't send money or give credit card or bank account details to anyone you don't know and trust
• thoroughly research any scheme or agreement before signing or paying money
• seek legal advice before signing any property contract

More information:

• Scams
• Scamwatch

Hong Kong experiences typhoons.

Local safety rules require businesses and transport services to close during typhoons of level 8 and above.

The Australian Consulate-General in Hong Kong closes when the 'Typhoon 8' signal is given.

Authorities may delay or suspend flights and ferries into and out of Hong Kong. Contact your travel operator or airline to find out about delays.

If there's a typhoon:

• monitor weather forecasts and plan accordingly
• know your hotel or cruise ship's evacuation plans
• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

If there's a natural disaster or severe weather:

• follow the advice of local authorities
• monitor the news and other local information sources
• monitor the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• keep in contact with friends and family

More information:

• Hong Kong Observatory

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up   
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

More information:

• General health advice
• International travel and health

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Hong Kong. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

It's illegal to have sleeping tablets and certain other medications without a prescription. These include medications used to treat erectile dysfunction or anxiety.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medicine is
• how much you'll take
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medicine
• Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department

There is an ongoing outbreak of coronavirus in China, originating from Wuhan City in Hubei Province - https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/news-and-updates/novel-coronavirus-outbreak

Passengers arriving into Hong Kong may undergo temperature screening at all border control points. If you have symptoms, you may be taken to hospital for further testing. If authorities suspect you're infected, you may need to stay in hospital or be quarantined. Talk to your doctor before travelling.

The Hong Kong Centre for Health and Protection has set up a dedicated webpage on this issue: (www.chp.gov.hk/en/features/102465.html).

Humidity

Hong Kong experiences very high humidity during summer, from May to October.

Reduce physical exertion and outdoor activities on very humid days.

Air pollution

High levels of air pollution may trigger bronchial, sinus or asthma conditions.

If you have an existing heart or breathing difficulties, reduce physical and outdoor activities on days with high pollution.

You can monitor real-time air quality index reports for Hong Kong.

Insect-borne diseases

Outbreaks of mosquito-borne illnesses, including dengue, sometimes occur.

The Hong Kong SAR Government is currently at 'Alert' response level for the Zika virus. This is the lowest level in the 3-tier alert system which indicates that the immediate health impact on the local population is low.

To protect yourself from disease:

• ensure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

If you're pregnant, consult your doctor about possible Zika virus risks before travelling.

Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is common. Serious outbreaks sometimes occur. Outbreaks usually start in March or April and peak in May. Sometimes they last until October.

HFMD mostly affects children aged younger than 10 years, but adult cases, particularly in young adults, occur.

HFMD is spread by direct contact with discharges of infected people.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases occur sometimes. These include:

• tuberculosis
• hepatitis
• scarlet fever

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids in rural areas
• avoid ice cubes

Seek medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Bird flu (avian influenza)

Human cases of avian influenza A (H7N9) have been reported in mainland China.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) Government is currently at 'Alert' response level for influenza, including avian influenza A (H7N9). This is the lowest level in the 3-tier alert system.

To reduce your risk:

• wash your hands often
• use good food safety practices
• avoid contact with animals

More information:

• Department of Health
• World Health Organisation

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus

The Hong Kong SAR Government is currently at 'Alert' response level for Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). This is the lowest level in the 3-tier alert system.

Hong Kong's Department of Health checks for MERS-CoV at border control points.

Travellers who arrive in, or transit through, Hong Kong and have flu-like symptoms may be sent to a public hospital. The hospital will isolate the person until they test negative for MERS-CoV.

More information:

• Hong Kong Centre for Health Protection

Medical facilities

Medical services and facilities are of a high standard.

Costs can be higher than in Australia.

Private hospitals may require you to confirm your insurance cover or pay a deposit up-front before they will admit you.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Drugs

Possessing illegal drugs of all kinds, including marijuana, can result in penalties that include heavy fines and jail time.

Officials have arrested many foreigners for trafficking drugs. The travellers are usually arrested when they try to exit the airport in Hong Kong.

Importing weapons

Strict rules control the import or possession of:

• any type of weapon
• any item that looks like a weapon, including replicas, antiques, toys and fashion accessories

Hong Kong has prosecuted foreigners, including Australians, for possessing:

• stunning devices such as taser guns
• dart and spear guns
• knuckledusters
• slingshots
• extendable batons
• tear gas and pepper spray

You can import, possess or purchase such items legally, including from local Hong Kong markets. To do this, you must get a permit from local authorities in advance.

These laws apply to people in Hong Kong and those transiting Hong Kong airport.

If authorities find you carrying such items (including in your luggage), they may arrest, fine or detain you.

More information:

• List of restricted items

Ivory imports

Hong Kong has introduced strict laws for importing and re-exporting all elephant ivory products, including tourist souvenirs.

Offenders could face fines and jail time.

More information:

• Government of Hong Kong

Other laws

It's illegal to:

• take part in public demonstrations without government approval
• take photos of military installations

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law

Chinese law doesn't recognise dual nationality.

However, Hong Kong's law allows dual nationals of Chinese descent to register their Australian nationality. 

Register with the Hong Kong Immigration Department if you wish to be considered a national of Australia. Doing so ensures your access to Australian consular services, if you need them.

If you're an Australian-Hong Kong dual national, you can make a Declaration of Change of Nationality. Find out what the consequences of this are from the Hong Kong Immigration Department.

If you plan to enter mainland China from Hong Kong, travel on your Australian passport.

If you travel on other documents, you can't get access to our services.

More information:

• Dual nationals
• Travel advice for China

Same-sex relationships are legal.

Most locals accept or are indifferent to LGBTI travellers. However, community attitudes towards LGBTI people are generally more conservative than in Australia.

Avoid public displays of affection.

More information:

• LGBTI travellers

Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China. This means it has separate immigration regulations from those of the People's Republic of China.

Tourist visas

You generally will be granted a 90 day tourist visa on arrival if you're both:

• visiting Hong Kong for tourism
• planning to stay for less than 90 days

Other visas

In all other cases, you'll need a visa.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. For details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules, contact:

• the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Sydney

• the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Immigration Department

Travel between Hong Kong and mainland China

If you plan to travel between Hong Kong and mainland China, you'll need a visa.

If you plan to return to China after visiting Hong Kong, get a multiple-entry visa for China. If you don't get this visa, you'll need a new visa to re-enter China. Get your visa before leaving Australia.

If you enter the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone, you can apply for a visa at the border of Shenzhen and Hong Kong.

If you've recently changed your passport, but your Chinese visa is still in the old passport, take both passports with you. Officials may ask you to present your previous passport and Chinese visa.

If you can't produce your previous visa, border officials may deny you a visa on arrival to Shenzhen.

More information:

• China travel advice

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

The currency in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD).

Under new laws, travellers in and out of Hong Kong may need to declare cash. Make a written declaration if you're carrying more than HKD120,000 or equivalent in cash.

You can change Australian dollars for HKD at local currency exchanges and banks.

Credit cards are widely accepted.

Take care when using ATMs, as petty crime occurs. See Safety

More information:

• Hong Kong Customs list of prohibited/controlled items

Accommodation

Unlicensed guesthouses providing low-cost accommodation operate in Hong Kong. They may not follow the safety standards set for licensed guesthouses. Don't risk your safety or security.

If you choose to stay in a guesthouse, confirm it's licensed. Tell your family and friends where you are staying.

More information:

• Home Affairs Department of Hong Kong

Driving permit

You can drive in Hong Kong for up to 12 months if you have both:

• an International Driving Permit (IDP)
• a valid Australian driver's licence

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

After 12 months, you'll need to apply for a local licence.

Make sure your insurance covers you if you drive without a Hong Kong driver's licence.

More information:

• Hong Kong Transport Department

Road travel

Hong Kong has a well-developed road network of similar standards to a large Australian city.

Check you have adequate insurance before driving.

Find out about local road rules and practices.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check your insurance covers you for riding motorbikes.

Most travel insurance policies won't cover you if you don't follow local laws or wear a helmet.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Use only licensed taxis or reputable limousine services. Arrange them through your hotel if you can. Always insist that the meter is used.

A small, but growing number of foreigners have gotten into disputes with taxi drivers over the fare.

If you have an issue with a taxi driver, ask for a receipt. Then record the taxi driver's licence number and contact the police.

Public transport

Hong Kong has an extensive public transport system. It includes the MTR, buses, ferries and trams.

More information:

• Hong Kong Tourism Board
• Public transport in Hong Kong
• Transport and getting around safely

Sea travel

Ferries are a common mode of transport between Hong Kong, Macau and the Chinese mainland.

Some cruise lines stop over in Hong Kong.

More information:

• Travelling by boat
• Going on a cruise

Air travel

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Hong Kong's air safety profile on the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 999.

Medical emergencies

Call 999.

Police

Call 999.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian Consulate-General in Hong Kong.

Australian Consulate-General, Hong Kong

23/F Harbour Centre, 25 Harbour Road

Wanchai, Hong Kong

Phone: (+852) 2827 8881

Fax: (+852) 2585 4457

Website: hongkong.china.embassy.gov.au

Facebook: Australia in Hong Kong and Macau

Check the Consulate-General website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia