Hong Kong
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Risk level(s)
Risk level(s)
Hong Kong - Exercise normal security precautions
There is no nationwide advisory in effect for Hong Kong. Exercise normal security precautions.
Hong Kong is a special administrative region (SAR) of the People's Republic of China.
Safety and security
Safety and security
Demonstrations
Demonstrations occasionally occur in Hong Kong, sometimes on short notice. Though they are usually conducted in a peaceful and orderly manner, some have occasionally turned violent. Monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities. Avoid areas where demonstrations or large gatherings are being held and exercise caution at all times.
Crime
The crime rate in Hong Kong is relatively low. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occurs, especially at the airport, on public transportation and in main tourist shopping areas, hotel lobbies and crowded streets. Bags left unattended are likely to be stolen. Ensure that your personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times.
Robberies, some targeting foreigners, have occurred in the shopping and entertainment districts in Shenzhen Special Economic Zone, located across the border from Hong Kong in mainland China’s Guangdong province. Be extremely vigilant while in Shenzhen, and travel with a friend or in a group. Carry copies of passports and other identification and a small supply of cash separate from your other personal belongings.
Foreigners have been targeted in incidents of drink spiking, which is often combined with theft or credit card fraud. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers, and pay careful attention when drinks are being prepared and served.
Transportation
Traffic drives on the left and is congested in urban areas. Roads are narrow and frequently unmarked. Public transportation is widely available. Taxi drivers speak little or no English; you should therefore have your destination written in Chinese.
Air travel
The Government of Canada does not assess foreign domestic airlines’ compliance with international aviation safety standards. See Foreign domestic airlines for more information.
Entry/exit requirements
Entry/exit requirements
It is the sole prerogative of every country or territory to determine who is allowed to enter or exit. Canadian consular officials cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet entry or exit requirements. The following information has been obtained from the Chinese authorities and is subject to change at any time. The country- or territory-specific entry/exit requirements are provided on this page for information purposes only. While every effort is made to provide accurate information, information contained here is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, express or implied. The Government of Canada assumes no responsibility, and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided. It is your responsibility to check with the Embassy of the People's Republic of China or one of its consulates for up-to-date information.
Official (special and diplomatic) passport holders must consult the Official Travel page, as they may be subject to different entry requirements.
Passport
Canadians must present a passport to visit Hong Kong, which must be valid for at least one month beyond the date of expected departure from that country. Prior to travelling, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.
Temporary passport holders may be subject to different entry requirements. Check with diplomatic representatives for up-to-date information.
Visas
Tourist visa: Not required (for stays of up to 90 days)
Business visa: Not required (for stays of up to 90 days)
Student visa: Required
Canadians travelling to mainland China via Hong Kong must obtain a Chinese visa before arrival. Canadian travellers who are not Hong Kong residents should seek information from the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate and apply for entry visas before leaving Canada. Canadian residents in Hong Kong are encouraged to seek detailed information from the Office of the Commissioner of China’s foreign ministry in Hong Kong. Travellers entering Hong Kong from mainland China and then leaving Hong Kong via the mainland should have a visa for that re-entry. Consult Travel Advice and Advisories for China for more information regarding travel to mainland China.
Temperature screening
All travellers are subject to body temperature screening upon entry into Hong Kong.
Departure fees
An airport departure tax of HKD120 and a ferry embarkation tax of HKD19 are normally included in the price of a plane ticket to or from Hong Kong. Confirm these taxes are included with your air carrier.
Children and travel
Children need special documentation to visit certain countries. See Children for more information.
Yellow fever
See Health to obtain information on this country’s vaccination requirements.
Health
Health
- Measles: Global Update - July 28, 2016 00:00 EDT
- Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) - July 12, 2016 00:00 EDT
Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Vaccines to Consider
You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health provider about which ones are right for you.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Japanese encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain. It is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is low for most travellers. Vaccination should be considered for those who may be exposed to mosquito bites (e.g., spending a large amount of time outdoors) while travelling in regions with risk of Japanese encephalitis.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease and is common in most parts of the world. Be sure your measles vaccination is up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Yellow Fever Vaccination
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
| * It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements. | |
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Food/Water
Food and Water-borne Diseases
Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.
In some areas in East Asia, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A, schistosomiasis and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in East Asia. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among pediatric travellers, travellers going to rural areas, visiting friends and relatives or travelling for a long period of time. Travellers at high risk visiting regions with typhoid risk, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation should speak to a health care provider about vaccination.
Insects
Insects and Illness
In some areas in Eastern Asia, certain insects carry and spread diseases like chikungunya, dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, leishmaniasis, Lyme disease, malaria, and tick-borne encephalitis.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Dengue fever
- Dengue fever occurs in this country. Dengue fever is a viral disease that can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases it leads to dengue haemorrhagic fever, which can be fatal.
- The risk of dengue is higher during the daytime, particularly at sunrise and sunset.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.
Malaria
Malaria
There is no risk of malaria in this country.
Animals
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Some infections found in some areas in Eastern Asia, like avian influenza and rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
Person-to-Person
Person-to-Person Infections
Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.
Hand, foot and mouth disease
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common viral illness that mainly affects infants and children. Travellers are at increased risk if visiting or living in overcrowded conditions. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against this disease.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.
For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.
Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care provider.
High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.
Medical services and facilities
Good medical care is widely available. Private hospitals may require confirmation of insurance coverage, guarantee of payment or an up-front deposit before admitting patients.
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
Laws & culture
You are subject to local laws. See Arrest and detention for more information.
Laws
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Hong Kong has strict laws regarding weapons and items that may be used as weapons. You are liable for prosecution when transiting through Hong Kong International Airport if you have items such as knuckledusters, extendable batons, live ammunition or stunning devices in your carry-on or checked bags.
Taking photographs of military installations is strongly discouraged. Cameras may be confiscated.
An International Driving Permit is recommended. Drivers involved in an accident are tested for alcohol consumption and may face prosecution if they exceed the legal limit (blood alcohol concentration of 0.05). The use of a cellular phone while driving is strictly prohibited unless the phone is fitted with a hands-free device.
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in China. If local authorities consider you a Chinese citizen, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services, thereby preventing Canadian consular officials from providing you with those services. You should always travel using your valid Canadian passport and present yourself as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times to minimize this risk. You may also need to carry and present a Chinese passport for legal reasons, for example to enter and exit the country (see Entry/exit requirements to determine passport requirements). Citizenship is determined solely by national laws, and the decision to recognize dual citizenship rests completely with the country in which you are located when seeking consular assistance. See Travelling as a dual citizen for more information.
While dual citizenship is not legally recognized in mainland China, Hong Kong authorities recognize dual citizenship under the “one country, two systems” framework. In accordance with the bilateral agreement between Canada and Hong Kong SAR, local authorities advise Canadian consular officials in Hong Kong when Canadian citizens are arrested or detained, and also provide them with consular access to these Canadian citizens. You are encouraged to advise local authorities of your Canadian citizenship if you are detained or arrested.
Canadians who were born in Hong Kong must declare their Canadian citizenship to the Hong Kong Immigration Department for their Canadian citizenship to be recognized by local authorities. If this declaration is not made, local authorities may consider such individuals to be Chinese. For further information, contact the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
Money
The currency is the Hong Kong dollar (HKD). Foreign currency and traveller’s cheques can be exchanged at banks and hotels. U.S. dollar traveller’s cheques are recommended. Credit cards are widely accepted. Automated banking machines are widely available.
Natural disasters and climate
Natural disasters & climate
The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from May to October. Typhoons usually occur between April and October. The Hong Kong Observatory provides information on weather conditions. Local authorities are very effective at disseminating information about upcoming storms to the public, in order to reduce the risks to both citizens and tourists. Severe rainstorms have occasionally caused flooding and landslides, resulting in loss of life and damage to infrastructure. Keep informed of regional weather forecasts and follow the advice of local authorities. Consult our Typhoons and monsoons page for more information.
Assistance
Assistance
Local services
Emergency services
Dial 999 for emergency assistance.
Hong Kong - Consulate General of Canada
For emergency assistance after hours, call the Consulate General of Canada in Hong Kong and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at +1 (613) 996-8885.
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely information in its Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad. In the event of a large-scale emergency, every effort will be made to provide assistance. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
See Large-scale emergencies abroad for more information.