Foreign travel advice

Hong Kong

Safety and security

Terrorism  

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

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

Terrorism in Hong Kong

Terrorist attacks in Hong Kong cannot be ruled out.

Political situation

Protests and civil unrest

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

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

Crime

Protecting your belongings

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

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

Sexual assault

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

Laws and cultural differences

National Security Law

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

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

The law can be interpreted broadly and offences can lead to a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. Individuals and organisations can be prosecuted.

The NSL applies to activities taking place inside and outside Hong Kong, including in the UK. The NSL applies to all individuals regardless of nationality or residency. Hong Kong’s National Security Police have issued arrest warrants and financial rewards against individuals living outside Hong Kong, including in the UK.

You could be detained or removed to mainland China for some offences under the NSL.

Criticising the government

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

Immigration Ordinance

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

Public offences

You can be fined on the spot for littering and spitting.

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

The import and re-export of all elephant ivory and its products, including tourist souvenirs, is illegal. You could be fined or given a prison sentence.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Do not become involved with illegal drugs of any kind. This includes cannabidiol (CBD). Possession of drugs can lead to a prison sentence.

Using cameras in secure areas

Do not take photographs of military installations.

Transport risks

Road travel

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

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

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

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Typhoons

See extreme weather and natural hazards for information about how to prepare, and how to react if there is a warning.

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

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