Hong Kong, a Special
Administrative Region (SAR) of the People’s Republic of China, enjoys
a high degree of autonomy, except in the areas of defense and foreign
policy, and retains its own currency, laws, and border controls. It is
composed of three geographic areas: the New Territories, Kowloon Peninsula,
and Hong Kong Island.
Hong Kong Entry/Exit Requirements
A passport and evidence
of onward/return transportation by sea/air are required. A visa is not
required for tourist visits by U.S. citizens of up to 90 days. An extension
of stay may be granted upon application to the Hong Kong SAR Immigration
Department. U.S. citizens must have passports with at least four months’
validity for entry into Hong Kong.
A departure tax of
80 Hong Kong dollars (approximately $10.30 U.S. dollars), unless included
in the airfare, must be paid at the airport. Visas are required to work
or study. Public transportation from Hong Kong’s International Airport
at Chek Lap Kok to Central Hong Kong (about 25 miles) is readily available,
as are taxis. Travelers should exchange sufficient money for transportation
at the airport exchange facility located immediately outside the baggage
claim area.
For the most current
information concerning entry and exit requirements, travelers can consult
the Hong Kong SAR Immigration Department, Immigration Tower, 7 Gloucester
Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong, Tel. (852) 2829-3001, fax (852) 2824-1133, Internet
home page: www.info.gov.hk/immd/), or the Embassy of the People’s
Republic of China. (See Embassy’s address on page 26.)
Apply online to get your China travel visa quickly.