Update to information on testing and quarantine requirements for entry to Hong Kong ('Entry requirements' page)

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

From 4 July, Hong Kong is exempt from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) advice against all non-essential international travel. This is based on the current assessment of COVID-19 risks.

Travel is subject to entry restrictions Travellers from overseas countries/territories, who are not Hong Kong residents, will be denied entry

If you’re eligible to enter Hong Kong, all travellers are required to take a mandatory medical coronavirus test and a compulsory quarantine

From 1 October, travellers from the UK and other specified high risk places, will need to provide evidence of a negative test result for COVID-19 taken no more than 72 hours prior to their departure, and quarantine in a hotel for 14 days on arrival at your own expense. You should not use the NHS testing service to get a test in order to facilitate your travel to another country. You should arrange to take a private test.

Transit services at Hong Kong International Airport has resumed for passengers who can be checked through from port of origin to final destination See Entry requirements for more information before you plan to travel. Preparing for your return journey to the UK If you’re returning to the UK from overseas, you will need to: provide your journey and contact details before you travel

check if you need to self-isolate on your return

Check our advice on foreign travel during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and sign up for email alerts for this travel advice.

If you’re planning travel to Hong Kong, find out what you need to know about coronavirus there in the Coronavirus section.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO ’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.

New national security legislation passed by the National People’s Congress Standing Committee meeting in Beijing entered into force in Hong Kong on 1 July. It introduces offences on secession, subversion, organisation and perpetration of terrorist activities, and collusion with a foreign country with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. These offences can be applied to activities conducted outside Hong Kong. China’s mainland authorities could under certain circumstances detain and try individuals under the terms of this law. There is therefore a risk for those who commit an offence under the law of being detained and removed to mainland China. Due to recent heightened political sensitivity, there could be an increase in protests and violence. These could occur without warning, throughout Hong Kong. You should avoid protests and demonstrations. See Political situation.

Throughout 2019, large-scale political demonstrations took place all over the Hong Kong SAR, including in areas popular with tourists. While a number of peaceful activities have taken place, many other protests have led to clashes between police and protesters involving significant violence. You should keep up to date with developments across Hong Kong. You can sign up for email alerts to be notified when this travel advice is updated.

There are reports of greater scrutiny from mainland authorities at border crossings between the mainland and Hong Kong at this time, including checks on travellers’ electronic devices. See Visits to mainland China

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Hong Kong, attacks can’t be ruled out. See Terrorism

The typhoon season in Hong Kong normally runs from April to October. See Natural disasters

You should take sensible precautions against pick pocketing and other street crime. See Crime

470,295 British nationals visited Hong Kong in 2019. Most visits are trouble free.

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.