Travel regulations
Visa policy
Hong Kong has a liberal visa policy whereby visitors from most countries can enter Hong Kong without a visa for short stays, depending on nationality. However, specific visa requirements vary depending on nationality and the purpose of the visit. For more information on visa requirements to Hong Kong, please refer to the website of Immigration Department HKSAR.
General
Language
Cantonese is the primary language, supported by English and Putonghua in business and tourism.
Time Difference
Hong Kong Standard Time is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+8).
Weather
Hong Kong has a sub-tropical climate with distinct seasons. In December, Hong Kong enjoys mild, dry winter weather with temperatures averaging between 15°C and 20°C. For more information on Hong Kong’s climate, please visit the Hong Kong Observatory website.
Finance
Currency and Exchange
Hong Kong's official currency is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD), represented by the symbol "$" or "HK$". Most major credit cards enjoy
broad acceptance across Hong Kong and can be utilised for cash advances at banks and ATMs throughout the city.
Foreign currencies can be exchanged at international airports, banks or currency exchange stores. For the approximate exchange
rate, please refer to http://www.xe.com/currency/hkd-hong-kong-dollar?r=.
Taxes & Tipping
There is no sales tax in Hong Kong. The only tax you may be charged is 5% government tax on hotel rates. Most upscale hotels add
this to a 10% service charge, making for a total surcharge of 15%.
Starting from April 1, 2015, all retail businesses in Hong Kong are required to charge a minimum levy of HKD 1.00 for each
plastic
shopping bag provided to customers.
In general, tipping is at your discretion. While tipping is not mandatory in Hong Kong, a 10% service charge is usually billed
in
at restaurants.
Transportation
The Octopus card (tourist version)
The Octopus card is an essential travel companion for tourists visiting Hong Kong. This contactless smart card offers
convenient access to public transport, including the MTR (subway), buses, ferries, and even some taxis. It can also be used
for purchases at various retail stores, restaurants, and vending machines across the city.
You can easily obtain the Octopus tourist version at the Airport Express Customer Service Center, MTR stations, or
convenience
stores. The card comes pre-loaded with credit and may include a refundable deposit.
Using the card is simple: just tap it on the card reader when you enter and exit public transport, or when making
purchases.
It provides a hassle-free way to explore the city while saving time and money.
Electricity
The standard electrical voltage in Hong Kong is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. The three-pronged UK-style plug is commonly used. Please prepare the adaptor for your electrical equipment if necessary.
Smoking Regulations
Smoking is prohibited in all indoor public places, including restaurants, karaoke, malls and bars in Hong Kong, and throughout the HKU Campus. The smoking ban also covers both indoor and outdoor areas of some premises such as public beaches and swimming pools. It also applies to public transport carriers and facilities. Furthermore, no person shall smoke or carry a lighted cigarette, cigar or pipe in designated no smoking areas, or they shall be liable to a fixed penalty of HK$1,500.
Emergency and Useful Phone Numbers
Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 999
For more information and other useful numbers, please refer to the website of Hong
Kong Tourism Board.