Hong Kong Travel Risk

Exercise increased caution when traveling to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws.

Exercise increased caution due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws.

• Hong Kong SAR authorities have passed laws that limit people’s civil liberties. The laws apply to anyone in Hong Kong, including foreigners. Authorities have also issued arrest warrants for individuals, including U.S. citizens, located outside of Hong Kong for activities undertaken overseas.
• U.S. government employees must follow the policies established by their Department or Agency regarding official or personal travel to China, including to Hong Kong SAR.

National security laws and restriction of civil liberties

Since 2020, Hong Kong SAR authorities have taken away many freedoms from people living there.

On June 30, 2020, China imposed the Law on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong SAR. On March 23, 2024, Hong Kong passed another similar law. Both laws list many crimes that are vaguely defined. The crimes include:

• Trying to break apart China (acts of secession)
• Working against the government (subversion)
• Terrorism
• Working with other countries against China (collusion with foreign entities)
• Betraying the country (treason)
• Stealing government secrets
• Insurrection
• Sabotage against public infrastructure
• External interference

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

Dual Chinese-British nationality

Hong Kong does not recognise dual nationality, and does not recognise the BN(O) passport as a valid travel document or proof of identity. If you hold both British and Chinese nationality, local authorities may treat you solely as a Chinese citizen, even if you enter Hong Kong on a full “British citizen” passport or hold a British National (Overseas) passport. In such circumstances, the British Consulate-General may not be able to offer you consular assistance.

If you have formally renounced Chinese citizenship, carry evidence that you have done so.

See guidance on nationality in China.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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 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 yourself and 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.

Drink spiking and 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.

Risk level

Hong Kong - Exercise a high degree of caution

Exercise a high degree of caution in Hong Kong due to the risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws.

Crime

Petty crime

Petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occurs, particularly:

• at the airport
• on public transportation
• in main shopping areas and markets
• in hotel lobbies
• on crowded streets
• at tourist attractions

Violent crime

Serious crime against foreigners is relatively rare, but incidents may occur.

While in Hong Kong:

• be vigilant in crowded locations
• don't carry large sums of money
• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times

Spiked food and drinks

Foreigners have been targeted in incidents of drink spiking, particularly in the Wan Chai area. Items containing drugs could put you at risk of sexual assault, robbery or credit card fraud.

• Be cautious of unsolicited requests from strangers
• Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers
• Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances

Fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• use ATMs located inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud