hong kong china travel card

Choice of Octopus

Octopus on iphone or apple watch.

It is easy to get an Octopus before or after you arrive Hong Kong. If you have iPhone X or later, or Apple Watch Series 3 or later, simply download the Octopus App for Tourists to instantly add Octopus to your iPhone or Apple Watch.

You can pay with Octopus on iPhone or Apple Watch at over 180,000 acceptance points, covering an extensive range of public transport, dining, entertainment, shopping and more. Check your balance and skip queues by topping up using your credit / debit card. Once you no longer need it, you can easily apply for a refund of the deposit and remaining value through the Octopus App for Tourists.

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Huawei Pay Octopus

For tourists from Mainland China, Macau or Singapore, it is also easy to get an Octopus before or after you arrive Hong Kong. Simply sign in Huawei Account with Mainland China, Macau or Singapore as the registered region, and download Octopus App for Tourists from AppGallery for adding a new Octopus on Huawei mobile phone.

You can pay with Huawei Pay Octopus at over 180,000 acceptance points, covering an extensive range of public transport, dining, entertainment, shopping and more. Check your balance and skip queues by topping up using your UnionPay cards. Once you no longer need it, you can easily apply for a refund of the deposit and remaining value through the Octopus App for Tourists.

Physical Octopus Cards

Tourist octopus (sold version).

Tourist Octopus (Sold version) is a specially designed Octopus for visitors to Hong Kong.

• Card type: Adult and Child
• Priced at HK$39 without initial stored value and no deposit is required
• Remaining value can be refunded but the Octopus will be deactivated
• Keep it as a souvenir

On-Loan Octopus

On-Loan Octopus is a card lent by Octopus Cards Limited to you.

• Card type: Adult, Child and Elder
• A refundable deposit and initial stored value is required

* The initial stored value for Standard Octopus selling via "Citybus Ticketing Office at Bus Terminus at Hong Kong Port of Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge" is HK$70 (Child version) and HK$150 (Adult & Elder versions).

The applicant must be a Hong Kong Resident who possess a valid Hong Kong Identity Card, a valid Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (i.e. 'Home Return Permit'), as well as driving licences in Hong Kong and the Mainland (if the applicant is one of the designated drivers).

The applicant must be the registered owner of the private car concerned.

The Scheme is designed for non-commercial private cars. Therefore, the vehicle must be registered under the name of an individual. Besides, the vehicle must be in seating capacity of eight or below (including the driver), and must be less than six metres in length. The approved vehicle will be issued with Closed Road Permit by the Transport Department and electronic vehicle licence by the Mainland authorities.

According to the "Guangdong Province Administrative Measures for Hong Kong Private Cars Travelling to the Mainland via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge" ("Administrative Measures"), applicants are required to submit Certificate of Roadworthiness for Hong Kong private cars registered (or aged) 6 years or more.

Each applicant may designate no more than two drivers (one of the drivers could be the applicant) to drive the private car concerned between Hong Kong and Guangdong.

Designated drivers must be a Hong Kong resident who possess a valid Hong Kong Identity Card. Besides, designated drivers must possess a valid Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (i.e. "Home Return Permit"), or foreign passport with valid visa/endorsement (or residence permit, permanent resident card), or other international travel documents with valid visa/endorsement (or residence permit, permanent resident card), etc.; and possess driving licences for private cars in Hong Kong and the Mainland.

• Applicant will NOT be appointed as one of the designated drivers by default. If applicant would like to appoint himself / herself as a designated driver, he / she will have to indicate the option in the application form and upload the color images of both the front and side page of his/her Mainland Driving Licence as supporting documents.

The duration of stay in the Mainland must not exceed the validity period of the relevant permits/ licences. The applicant's vehicle may stay for no more than 30 consecutive days upon each entry to the Mainland and no more than 180 days within a year in aggregate.

The applicant must fulfill the insurance requirements of the two places, including purchasing the qualified Traffic Accident Liability Insurance for Motor Vehicles (i.e. "Compulsory Traffic Accident Liability Insurance for Motor Vehicles" or "unilateral recognition" insurance) in the Mainland for the private car concerned.

After receiving notification from the Mainland authorities, the applicant would be required to arrange vehicle inspection at designated location in Hong Kong as required by the Guangdong Provincial Government. The vehicle concerned is not required to go to the Mainland for separate inspection. Before arranging vehicle inspection, applicants are reminded to read Points to Note on Vehicle Inspection for “Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles” and Samples on Vehicles Failing Vehicle Inspection prepared by the Guangdong Provincial Public Security Department (only Simplified Chinese version is available) (the Points to Note and Samples are for reference only. The vehicle inspection bodies own the right of final decision on vehicle inspection result).

Starting from March 1, 2024, vehicle inspection will be exempted if the applicant re-submit applications for “Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles” within two years of passing the vehicle inspection, within the validity of the Mainland Electronic Vehicle Licence and meeting the following criteria:

• Applicant remain unchanged;
• Vehicle remain unchanged, including the Hong Kong Registration Mark, Chassis No. / V.I. Number., Engine Number, and colour, etc.; and
• Designated drivers remain unchanged, including the number of designated driver(s) and the Hong Kong Identity Card No. of the designated driver(s), etc.

Note: According to the Mainland government authorities, both The China Inspection Company Limited and China Travel Service (HK) Limited provide vehicle inspection services. Website of The China Inspection Company Limited: http://vic.cichk.com ; Website of China Travel Service (HK) Limited: https://gcbs.ctsmep.com .

• Number of vehicle in an application: Each applicant could only apply in the name of one private car even if the applicant has more than one vehicle registered under his name.
• Vehicles which have obtained quota under "Regular Quotas for Cross-boundary Private Cars travelling between Guangdong and Hong Kong" or "Ad Hoc Quotas for Cross Boundary Private Cars" are not eligible to apply for the Scheme.
• Applicants should to first liaise with the Traffic Management Bureau of the Guangdong Provincial Public Security Department (Telephone Number: 11183 and 020-83311536) and Shenzhen Customs (Telephone Number: 0755-12360) to confirm if the vehicle concerned had obtained any quota under “Regular Quotas for Cross-boundary Private Cars travelling between Guangdong and Hong Kong”. If affirmative, the original quota holder should make application to the Traffic Management Bureau of the Guangdong Provincial Public Security Department for cancelling the quota before registering for ballot.
• Since the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Link Road is designated as closed road, applicants are required to apply for a Closed Road Permit (CRP) for vehicles entering the Guangdong Province. The Scheme only accepts online application. Applicants are required to submit application, together with relevant supporting documents (see table below), to the theme page of the Scheme and the application will be jointly assessed by the governments of Guangdong and Hong Kong. The Transport Department will conduct preliminary vetting based on submitted information and the Mainland authorities will also process the applications. Applicants will be notified by email or SMS about the application status and required formalities by the Mainland authorities via the e-mail address or Mainland mobile number they provided in the application form. After receiving notification, applicant can access the "Mainland Information System" to enquire on application status and upload qualified Traffic Accident Liability Insurance for Motor Vehicles (i.e. "Compulsory Traffic Accident Liability Insurance for Motor Vehicles" or "unilateral recognition" insurance).
• Current applicants may register for computer ballot within 30 days before the expiry of their CRP. Successful applicants with application ballot allocated can submit fresh applications of the Scheme via the theme page of the Scheme within designated time and pay the Transport Department online for CRP application. In case applicant has to amend the information of applicant, vehicle and / or designated driver(s) when submitting a new application, upon the expiry of your electronic vehicle licence, the Transport Department may be required by the Mainland authorities to put up a request to cancel the previous record before passing the current application data for Mainland authorities’ further vetting. The process will take around 2 weeks’ processing time, please wait patiently.
• To achieve implementation of the Scheme in an orderly manner, the governments of Guangdong and Hong Kong agreed to introduce limit on the number of applications to be processed. A computer ballot will be introduced to allocate the number of applications to be processed. The limit for first week after open to receiving applications is 200 applications per working day and the limit from second week will be 300 applications per working day.
• Applicants are required to register for computer balloting via the theme page of the Scheme.
• The period of application submission will be randomly assigned by the computer system. Successful applicants should submit applications within designated 72 hours allotted by ballot in general.

Balloting timetable (April to August 2024)

• The timetable regarding application for computer ballot and submitting application for the Scheme is listed below. The timetable for subsequent months will be announced in due course.
• Hong Kong Identity Card
• Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (i.e. Home Return Permit)
• Hong Kong Vehicle Registration Document
• Certificate of Roadworthiness for the vehicle (only applicable to Hong Kong private cars aged 6 year or more and the certificate is issued by designated car testing centres in Hong Kong.)
• Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (i.e. Home Return Permit), or foreign passport with valid visa/endorsement (or residence permit, permanent resident card), or other international travel documents with valid visa/endorsement (or residence permit, permanent resident card)
• Hong Kong full driving licence
• Mainland Driving Licence
• Declaration of the designated driver other than the applicant (if applicable)

#: Every designed driver is required to fill out and sign an "Declaration for the Designated Drivers" in indicating their agreement on being a designated driver for vehicle under "Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles", complying with the relevant regulations and giving consent on the use of personal data.

• The application fee for the Closed Road Permit is HK$540 per year or HK$45 per month required by the Transport Department.
• Fees are required for RFID device installation and vehicle inspection. Members of the public are advised to stay tuned to announcement made by the Mainland related authorities in due course.
• Please note that applicants will not be required to pay or provide credit card information online by the Mainland authorities.
• Hong Kong private cars that enter Guangdong via the HZMB must fulfill the insurance requirements of the two places, applicants are required to take out the qualified Traffic Accident Liability Insurance for Motor Vehicles (i.e. "Compulsory Traffic Accident Liability Insurance for Motor Vehicles" or "unilateral recognition" insurance).
• Applicants for the Scheme may procure, through Hong Kong insurance companies offering relevant services, qualified "unilateral recognition" insurance products or separately purchase "Compulsory Traffic Accident Liability Insurance for Motor Vehicles" in the Mainland under the prevailing one-stop service arrangement.
• To provide greater convenience for applicants of the Scheme, the governments of Guangdong and Hong Kong and relevant authorities reached an agreement for implementing the "unilateral recognition" policy. The policy extends the coverage of third-party insurance policies issued by Hong Kong insurance companies to cover third-party liability in the Mainland, thereby deeming such policies as equivalent to the mandatory traffic accident liability insurance for motor vehicles in the Mainland.
• Under the "unilateral recognition" arrangement, applicants for the Scheme may procure as top-up to their Hong Kong statutory motor insurance policy an equivalent of the mandatory "Compulsory Traffic Accident Liability Insurance for Motor Vehicles" in the Mainland and choose selective top-up cover (i.e. Commercial Motor Insurance) depending on their needs.
• For details on motor vehicle insurance in Hong Kong and the Mainland, please refer to the website of the Insurance Authority ( https://www.ia.org.hk/en/infocenter/faqs/faqs_13.html ) and the Hong Kong Federation of Insurers ( https://minisites.hkfi.org.hk/hzmb/index.html ).
• The validity period of electronic vehicle licenses will be aligned with the validity period of the qualified Traffic Accident Liability Insurance for Motor Vehicles (i.e. "Compulsory Traffic Accident Liability Insurance for Motor Vehicles" or "unilateral recognition" insurance). Since the validity period of Closed Road Permit issued by the Transport Department will be aligned with the electronic vehicle license issued by the Mainland authorities, applicants are advised to ensure same validity period is selected for Closed Road Permit application and the Mainland compulsory traffic accident liability insurance for motor vehicles.
• According to the Mainland government authorities, Zhuhai Traffic Police will only process applications with a valid Mainland vehicle insurance (i.e. "Compulsory Traffic Accident Liability Insurance for Motor Vehicles" or "unilateral recognition" insurance). If the Mainland vehicle insurance is valid at the time of uploading to the Mainland Information System, Zhuhai Traffic Police process the application accordingly. If the Mainland vehicle insurance is not valid, Zhuhai Traffic Police will only process the application after the Mainland vehicle insurance come into effect. Applicants are reminded to observe relevant requirements before taking out Mainland vehicle insurance.

To achieve implementation of the Scheme in an orderly manner, the governments of Guangdong and Hong Kong agreed to introduce a cap on the number of travelling vehicles per day.

Applicants who have obtained the relevant licences for the Scheme from the Transport Department and the Mainland authorities may book for travelling within a designated period in the subsequent month via the online booking system starting from the middle of each month.

For example: Applicants can reserve specified dates for travelling in July starting from mid-June. Applicants can reserve specified dates for travelling in August starting from mid-July.

Applicants are required to reserve the specified date and time before 12:00 noon on the day before the reserved day in advance via the "Specified Dates Booking System". If applicants wish to cancel the reserved specified date and time, they must cancel the booking via the "Specified Dates Booking System" before 12:00 noon on the day before the reserved day.

If any vehicle is found to have been violating the travelling regulations, the Transport Department may deprive them from reserving the specified date and time through the "Specified Dates Booking System" or revoke the CRP.

Subject to the number of booking, there may be a need to allocate designated dates for northbound vehicles through computing balloting. If the number of applications has not reached its cap, applicants may make the booking via the system on a first-come-first-served basis.

The Transport Department (TD) anticipates that the traffic at Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) Hong Kong Port and Zhuhai Port as well as connecting roads will be relatively busy during long weekends and festive periods. TD hereby appeals cross-boundary private car owners who intended to use the HZMB for returning to Hong Kong during long weekends and festive periods to plan their journeys ahead.

Cross-boundary private car owners are advised to pay attention to special traffic and transport arrangements implemented by Mainland and Hong Kong authorities depending on the actual traffic conditions and the latest traffic announcement issued by relevant authorities, be patient when driving in the vicinities and follow on-site instructions.

Applicants and designated drivers are reminded to read the "Guangdong Province Administrative Measures for Hong Kong Private Cars Travelling to the Mainland via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge" ("Administrative Measures") ( http://www.gd.gov.cn/zwgk/wjk/qbwj/yfb/content/mpost_4173613.html ) and "Gongbei Customs Administrative Measures for Hong Kong and Macao Private Cars Travelling to the Mainland" ( http://gongbei.customs.gov.cn/gongbei_customs/374280/fdzdgknr19/4262598/xxyx30/5124562/index.html ) in order to understand relevant rules and regulations concerning the implementation of the Scheme in the Mainland before submitting applications.

If applicant or designated driver is found violating the "Administrative Measures", they could be subject to punishment by the Mainland authorities.

For the following scenarios, apart from the punishments under relevant Mainland legal provisions, vehicles owners and drivers will be subject to additional restrictions: The punishment arrangement stated in the "Administrative Measures" are extracted below * :

• For vehicles involved in illegal or unauthorized activities, such as smuggling, transporting illegal immigrants, illegal operations, posing threat to the national security and illegal carriage of prohibited, restricted or undeclared items which should be subject to quarantine and inspection, applications would not be accepted;
• For vehicles hit-and-run in a crash, or involved in drink driving or criminal offences under the legal provisions on road traffic, applications would not be accepted;
• For vehicles involved in illegal transfer, lease or sale of the private vehicle temporary entered to the Mainland or using the vehicle for illegal operation, applications would not be accepted for two years;
• For vehicles stay for more than 30 consecutive days upon entry to the Mainland and/ or more than 180 days within a year in aggregate, applications would not be accepted for two years;
• For vehicles entering the Mainland with invalid Mainland temporary licence, applications would not be accepted for one year;
• For vehicles involving travelling beyond the boundary of the Guangdong Province or driven by a person other than the designated driver(s), application would not be accepted for one year; and
• For vehicles involved in traffic incidents or traffic offences in the Mainland, new application would not be accepted before the completion of the processing or relevant legal proceedings.

Applicants and designated drivers shall pay attention to and comply with laws and regulations in the Mainland when driving in the Mainland. In case where violation of laws and regulations, or traffic accident occurs, applicants and designated drivers involved shall handle relevant issues timely in accordance with the procedural guidelines issued by Guangdong Provincial Public Security Department (only Simplified Chinese version is available).

• Upon arrival at the Vehicles Clearance Plaza of HZMB Hong Kong Port, drivers have to choose the appropriate private car kiosk for clearance and inspection by Department of Health, Immigration Department and Customs and Excise Department (C&ED). Vehicles should remain in the kiosk until all clearance processes are completed.
• During clearance at C&ED Private Car Kiosks, drivers and passengers have to declare their possession of controlled or prohibited articles to the Customs officers.
• In case a vehicle is selected for further inspection, relevant Customs instructions will be displayed on Exit Display Board. The driver has to follow traffic signs along and way and drive the vehicle to the C&ED Inbound Private Car Examination Building.
• For more details about Customs clearance procedures, please visit C&ED Homepage ( https://www.customs.gov.hk/tc/publications-useful-information/useful-information/QFS/index.html )
• The HZMB Main Bridge is located within Mainland waters and the toll plaza is also situated in the Mainland. The HZMB Authority, which is responsible for the operation of the Main Bridge, will collect tolls from vehicles using the HZMB Main Bridge in accordance with the laws of the Mainland. For details of toll levels on HZMB, please refer to the thematic website of Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Section ( https://www.hzmb.gov.hk/tc/notes.html )
• The toll plaza of the HZMB Main Bridge consists of manual and free-flow electronic toll lanes. For the manual toll lanes, motorists could pay tolls of the HZMB Main Bridge in cash (only RMB is accepted), bank / credit card (including Union Pay, Master and Visa Card), Alipay and Wechat Pay etc. for electronic payment. As for the free-flow electronic toll lanes, motorists could use smartcards for non-stop payment.
• Vehicles will enter HZMB Zhuhai Port after leaving the toll plaza. Before entering the gate, all passengers (excluding the driver) are required to alight. Passengers will alight at the alighting area and walk to the passenger inspection zone for undergoing immigration procedures. Depending on the vehicle type, drivers will undergo inspection and immigration procedures at designated vehicle passages.
• Gates leading to the HZMB Zhuhai Port has been equipped with automatic vehicle registration mark recognition system. Please keep a distance between the vehicle with the one in front such that the system could recognise the vehicle registration mark. Motorists are also reminded to pay attention to the signage at the scene. Yellow lines or signage are marked on the road for some facilities indicating the distance required.

For details, please refer to the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Zhuhai Port private cars clearance guide video (prepared by the Zhuhai Municipal Bureau of Commerce) (Only Traditional Chinese version is available):

• Practical Law

Home return permit (港澳居民来往内地通行证)

Practical law uk glossary 7-586-8167  (approx. 2 pages).

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Hong kong tourism board.

It’s not hard to stay connected when in Hong Kong, one of the world’s most ‘connected’ cities. Here are some convenient ways to get online from the moment you arrive, and throughout your trip in Hong Kong.

Free Wi-Fi services are widespread in Hong Kong. In particular, there are many Wi-Fi.HK hotspots widely available across the city in locations such as major tourist attractions, shopping malls, parks and gardens, visitor centres, sports venues, museums, ferry terminals, cooked food centres and government buildings, which offer wireless internet connection completely free or free for a period of time. Download the Wi-Fi.HK app to search for a list of hotspot locations, where you can connect to the internet with the Wi-Fi.HK SSID.

You can also find Wi-Fi hotspots at most public transport areas and with the following service providers.

HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Free wireless internet access is available at most seating and public areas in the passenger terminals. See details here .

MTR STATIONS

You can connect to the ‘MTR Free Wi-Fi’ network in the concourse and platforms of every MTR station to enjoy 15 minutes of free Wi-Fi service, with a maximum of five sessions for each mobile device per day. More details here .

CSL WI-FI HOTSPOTS 

csl free Wi-Fi hotspots can be found on selected Starbucks Coffee, Pacific Coffee, 7-Eleven and Circle K outlets and at selected phone booths. Look for the ‘CSL’ SSID on your device to browse the Hong Kong Tourism Board's website and download apps from our site for free.

DiscoverHongKong SIM Card 

You can easily stay connected during your trip to Hong Kong using a prepaid Discover Hong Kong Tourist SIM Card — no subscription charges, no hassle! The Real-name Registration Programme for SIM Cards has been implemented. Customers have to complete real-name registration to activate the services. Click here for more details.

GET IT UPON ARRIVAL!

You can get the Discover Hong Kong Tourist SIM Card at any 1O1O Center in town, more than 1,000 7-Eleven, Circle K or VanGO convenience stores, csl or HKT shops, and the Hong Kong Tourism Board’s Kowloon Visitor Centre at the Star Ferry Concourse in Tsim Sha Tsui. For a full list of retailers, please click here .

* The day pass comes in the form of a 3-in-1 SIM card, suitable for phones that require micro, mini and nano SIMs, and is rechargeable for up to 180 days to make longer stays more convenient.

The Discover Hong Kong Tourist SIM card is a third party product of CSL Mobile Limited, for which Hong Kong Tourism Board assumes no responsibility. Please click here for details on the SIM card and here for CSL Mobile General Terms and Conditions.

Mobile charging services

Running out of battery on your phone while you are out and about can be a stressful experience. There is no need to panic when your phone’s battery drops into the red, because there are many places in Hong Kong where you can get a quick boost of power.

Mobile charging facilities are available at 29 MTR stations to enhance the travel experience. There are USB charging sockets or wireless charging pads where you can charge your phone for free. Each person is limited to 15 minutes charging time per session.

See here for more details    

Shopping Malls 

Many shopping centres have mobile phone charging stations, which are normally located by the customer service desk. Some larger and upscale shopping malls will even rent out portable battery packs for you to charge your phone as well. Please approach the customer service counter for details.    

Convenience Stores 

Power bank rental service is available at 7-Eleven and Circle K stores. You can borrow a power bank from the selected branches by paying a refundable deposit and a reasonable charge.     For more details, please visit the websites of 7-Eleven and Circle K .

Hong Kong Tourism Board Visitor Centres 

The Hong Kong Tourism Board in-town visitor centre located at Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Pier provides a free mobile charging service.

See here for more details

• Practical Info

Special information for Labour Day Golden Week (1 – 5 May 2024)

• Major sightseeing attractions opening hours
• Public transportation and boundary-crossing services
• 1 May Pyrotechnics display special information: Vantage points and transportation adjustments 

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Effortlessly Navigating Hong Kong and China: The Convenience of the Travel Card

Hong Kong and China are two of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, known for their rich culture, history, and delicious food. However, traveling between these two regions can be a bit complicated, especially when it comes to paying for transportation and other expenses. This is where the Hong Kong China Travel Card comes in.

The Hong Kong China Travel Card is a prepaid card that allows travelers to easily pay for transportation and other expenses when traveling between Hong Kong and China. The card is accepted at various transportation providers, including the MTR, buses, and ferries, as well as selected retail outlets. This makes it a convenient option for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of carrying cash or using multiple credit cards.

One of the biggest advantages of the Hong Kong China Travel Card is its flexibility. The card can be used in both Hong Kong and China, making it a great option for those who plan to visit both regions. Additionally, the card can be reloaded with funds, so you don’t have to worry about running out of money while you’re on the go.

The Hong Kong China Travel Card can be purchased at various locations, including MTR Customer Service Centers, 7-Eleven and Circle K Convenience Stores, and online. It is available in different denominations, so you can choose the one that best suits your budget and travel plans.

Another great feature of this card is that it can be used for multiple trips. This means that you can reload the card and continue to use it for your future trips. This is a very useful feature for people who travel frequently between these two regions.

In summary, the Hong Kong China Travel Card offers a convenient and hassle-free way for travelers to pay for transportation and other expenses when traveling between Hong Kong and China. With its flexibility, reloadable funds, and acceptance at various transportation providers and retail outlets, it is a great option for anyone planning a trip to these regions.

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• INSTITUTIONS

BEIJING, April 28 -- China will extend the expiration date of mainland travel permits for eligible Hong Kong and Macao residents starting May 8, the National Immigration Administration (NIA) announced Friday.

The validity of their mainland travel permits with an expiration date between Jan. 1, 2020 and Dec. 30, 2023 will be extended until Dec. 31, 2023. This extension will enable holders of such permits to travel to and from the mainland using normal entry and exit inspection procedures, the NIA said.

The measure aims to meet soaring travel demand among these residents after the Chinese mainland fully resumed normal travel with Hong Kong and Macao starting Feb. 6, according to the announcement.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many residents from the two special administrative regions have been unable to renew their permits in a timely manner.

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Update April 12, 2024

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Travel Advisory April 12, 2024

Mainland china, hong kong & macau - see summaries.

Updated due to new national security legislation in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

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 Special Administrative Region (SAR) due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws .

Reconsider travel to the Macau Special Administrative Region (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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HKers can travel to mainland with expired permit

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Apec business travel card (abtc) scheme, before applying.

This webpage sets out the arrangement for bona fide business travelers who wish to apply for the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) Business Travel Card (ABTC) under the ABTC Scheme for travelling within the APEC economies.

The aim of the Scheme is to enhance the mobility of business travellers among the APEC economies, thus promoting business within the region.

The ABTC is plastic and the size of a credit card. It is normally valid for five years Note 1 . The card is good for multiple visits of two to three months to participating economies Note 2  without the need for a visa if pre-clearance has been granted.

For card holders travelling to a participating economy where pre-clearance has been granted, they can use the special service lanes at selected control points for entry and exit clearance and enjoy streamlined immigration clearance upon presentation of the card and their valid national passport. In Hong Kong, card holders are allowed to use "resident" counters where available.

Card holders can use the special service lanes at selected control points of participating economies regardless of whether pre-clearance has been granted by that economy. For card holders travelling to a participating economy where pre-clearance has not been granted, they are still subject to usual immigration clearance process, such as presenting valid passports and where applicable, valid visas.

Card holders travelling to the United States can use the "fast-track" lanes (currently designated for aircrew) for passenger clearance at all international airports in the United States upon entry. However, ABTC holders are still subject to the usual immigration clearance process as applicable to other travellers, such as presenting valid passports and where applicable, valid visas for the United States. Should an ABTC holder require a visa for urgent business travel and find that there are no appointments available for the next working day, he/she may fax the US Consulate General's office at 2147 3586 to request a special appointment slot.

Card holders can also use the special service lanes for passenger clearance at the major international airports in Canada upon entry. ABTC holders may follow signage with the APEC logo to access the lane. However, they are still subject to the usual immigration clearance process as applicable to other travellers, such as presenting valid passports and where applicable, valid visas for Canada.

Note 1: Applications lodged on or after 1 September 2015 will be granted an ABTC normally valid for five years. Applications lodged on or before 31 August 2015 will be granted an ABTC normally valid for three years.

Note 2: The arrangement does not apply to Chinese citizen of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region for entry into the Mainland. They should continue to use the Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macau Residents (commonly known as the “Home Visit Permit”) for such entry. It also does not apply to ABTC holders of Hong Kong (China) for entry into Chinese Taipei.

The APEC economies participating in the Scheme are :

• Brunei Darussalam
• People's Republic of China
• Hong Kong (China)
• Republic of Korea
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• The Philippines
• Chinese Taipei
• Vietnam 

A business person residing in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region may apply for an ABTC if he/she:

• holds a Hong Kong permanent identity card and a valid national passport;
• has not previously been denied entry to any of the participating economies;
• has never been convicted of a criminal offence;
• must be a bona fide business person who needs to travel frequently on short term visits within the APEC region to fulfil business commitments.

A bona fide business person is taken to mean a person who is engaged in the trade of goods, the provision of services or the conduct of investment activities. It does not include entertainers, musicians, artists or persons engaged in similar occupations.

To facilitate our referral of your application to other participating APEC economies, please complete the application form ( ID 900 ) in English with your recent colour photograph, and enclosed with:

• a photocopy of the applicant’s Hong Kong permanent identity card (only the side with his/her personal particulars and photograph is required);
• a photocopy of the applicant’s valid passport showing his/her personal particulars, nationality, dates of issue and expiry;
• another identical photograph of the applicant; and
• a letter from the applicant’s employing company supporting his/her application.

The applicant may nominate a maximum of five economies which the applicant needs to visit as a priority when he/she submits the application. The nominated economies will expedite the processing of the applicant’s application as far as possible. Nomination of economies is optional. If the applicant wishes to make the nomination, please complete the "Options for receiving an interim card" ( SF/IM/1609 ) and submit it together with his/her application.

The applicant may be required to submit further supporting documents and information in connection with his/her application when necessary.

Online Application

Click here for online submission of application and uploading of supporting documents.

Other Means of Submission

The completed application form and "Options for receiving an interim card" (if applicable) should be sent by post or in person to the Other Visas and Permits Section, Immigration Department, 7/F, Immigration Tower, 7 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong.

Underpaid mail items will not be accepted by the Immigration Department. For proper delivery of your mail items, please ensure your mail items bear sufficient postage with return address before posting. ( Details )

The current prescribed fee for new issue of the card is HK$540; a fee of HK$210 will be charged for card replacement for the remainder of its validity period. The fee is payable upon collection of the ABTC. The relevant fee could be settled by cash, EPS, Octopus, Faster Payment System (FPS) or cheque. The cheque should be crossed, made payable to “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region”, properly dated and signed. Application fee should not be sent.

After Applying

Once the receipt of application has been acknowledged, applicant can enquire the application status here  or through 24-hour telephone enquiry system (852) 3160 8663.

After the completion of local processing of the application for ABTC in Hong Kong, the application will be referred to other participating economies of the ABTC Scheme for processing of the applicant’s pre-clearance request. A notification letter with ABTC Application Number will be sent to the applicant’s business postal address. The applicant can then check the pre-clearance status via the ABTC System website by inputting ”Hong Kong, China” and his/her ABTC Application Number. Should the applicant find the pre-clearance results meet his/her business needs, he/she may request for the issue of an ABTC by sending a written request with his/her signature to the Department by post or by fax 2824 1161. The applicant will be informed by letter when the card is ready for collection.

If the applicant submitted "Options for receiving an interim card" upon submission of the application, an ABTC will be automatically issued when all nominated economies have processed the pre-clearance request and a letter will be sent to the applicant for collection of the ABTC.

The applicant may collect his/her ABTC either in person or authorise a representative to collect it on his/her behalf. Upon collection, the applicant or his/her authorised representative must produce the applicant’s original valid passport for inspection if this has not been done when the applicant submitted the application or if the application is submitted online , and submit the applicant’s previously granted ABTC for cancellation (if any).

ABTC is valid for a maximum of 5 years from the date of issue. There is no renewal process. If the 5-year validity has expired or is soon going to expire, the applicant is required to reapply a new ABTC in exactly the same way as an entirely new application. The old ABTC will be cancelled upon collection of the new ABTC. On the other hand, an ABTC may have a shorter validity if the applicant’s passport bears a shorter validity.

When one or more economies approved the applicant’s pre-clearance request after the issuance of his/her first ABTC, the applicant may request for the issuance of an ABTC with the most updated pre-clearance results. Please make the request* in writing with the applicant’s signature to the Department. Such replacement with only updating of pre-clearance results is free of charge.

When all concerned economies have processed his/her pre-clearance request, the applicant still needs to provide a written request for the issue of an ABTC regardless an interim ABTC had been issued to him/her or not.

Since the ABTC is linked to the applicant’s current passport, the applicant is required to apply for a replacement ABTC if his/her new passport bears a different number. Please make the request* in writing with the applicant’s signature and attach a copy of his/her new passport to the Department for issuance of replacement ABTC. A replacement fee will be charged for card replacement for the remainder of its validity period and is payable upon collection of the replacement ABTC. Upon collection, the applicant or his/her authorised representative must produce the applicant’s original valid new passport for inspection if this has not been done when the applicant submitted the replacement application, and submit the previously granted ABTC for cancellation (if any).

If the applicant lost the ABTC or if there is any card damage, please make the request* in writing with the applicant’s signature to the Department for issuance of replacement ABTC. A replacement fee will be charged for card replacement for the remainder of its validity period and is payable upon collection of the replacement ABTC.

* The request for the issue of replacement ABTC with the applicant’s signature can be sent to the Department by post or by fax 2824 1161. The applicant will be informed by letter when the replacement ABTC is ready for collection.

The current prescribed fee for new issue of the card is HK$540; a fee of HK$210 will be charged for card replacement for the remainder of its validity period. The fee is payable upon collection of the applicant’s ABTC. The relevant fee could be settled by cash, EPS, Octopus, Faster Payment System (FPS) or cheque. The cheque should be crossed, made payable to “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region”, properly dated and signed. Application fee should not be sent.

• APEC Business Travel Card website
• Application forms relating to APEC Business Travel Card

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Getting a China travel visa for a Canadian/Hong Kong dual citizen.

• Last Updated:

Apr 28th, 2024 9:00 pm

• Search this thread

Apr 28th, 2024 4:03 pm

• Reply with quote

Apr 28th, 2024 4:12 pm

Apr 28th, 2024 8:21 pm

Apr 28th, 2024 8:43 pm

Inclemental wrote: ↑ Has she ever gotten a Chinese visa before? If so, the process is very easy. Per visa application center, we left out any other current nationality as no option for HK SAR in the application. We selected China as former nationality. They didn’t even ask for anything else for our application. If she never gotten a visa before, it will be difficult. They asked passport used on 1st entry to Canada for all Chinese nationality. But they dont recognize any HK (both current/former) passport to be a valid document. We spent 1+ month to research on this topic. Thanks to AC didn’t allow us flying directly into China from Canada with HK ID and Home Return card many years ago. Getting the visa was very easy before. We used this old visa to bypass any question on our HK identity. Getting Home Return card is very fast if Chinese Visa is not an option. You can pick it up the next day with express service in HK with a valid HK ID.

Hanzawa wrote: ↑ Thank you for sharing your experience. She had also used her home return card to enter China, and always via HK. This is the first time she is trying to enter Mainland China without entering HK and also the first time in trying to get her visa. I also heard it used to be easier to get a Chinese Visa +10 or 15 years ago. But the rules have changed and people have been denied for things as small as not having "China" written before Hong Kong for their place of birth. My spouse immigrated to Canada when she was a child with a British Hong Kong passport. When she became Canadian, Hong Kong was still a British colony. The consulate sure as hell won't accept the British Hong Kong passport as valid document. How fast is the express service for getting a home return card? We read it can be as short as 5 business days, but we can't seem to find any service that offers next day service. She has a HK ID, but they were asked to change to the newest version which she has not gone yet.

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Hong Kong's popular Octopus card expands to mainland China

H ong Kong's popular Octopus tap-and-go card will be accepted on public transport in more than 336 mainland Chinese cities from Tuesday, the e-payment company has announced.

The move comes as post-pandemic domestic tourism picks up again, with large numbers of Hong Kong residents flocking to the neighbouring Chinese city of Shenzhen for cheaper products since the border opened last year.

Hong Kong and mainland China use different currencies -- the Hong Kong dollar and the China yuan -- and operate different capital controls, under the "One Country Two Systems" principle that Beijing has used to rule Hong Kong since the former British colony's handover to China in 1997.

Unlike most public services in mainland China, users of the new Octopus-China card are not required to register their real names and identity information.

The Octopus card is possessed by 98 percent of Hong Kong's 7.5-million population with over 20 million copies in circulation.

While it is accepted almost everywhere in Hong Kong, the card is little known and used in mainland China, except for two special versions designed for cross-border usage in Guangdong province.

Under the new scheme, the Octopus-China card will be accepted on buses, subways, trains and ferries in about half of the cities in mainland China.

Customers in Hong Kong can buy the new card for HK$88 ($11.25) from around 300 convenience shops and 10 subway stations, and deposit up to HK$3,000 ($383.56) on it.

Transactions in mainland China will be paid in Hong Kong dollars, according to the daily exchange rate.