Travel advisory on travelling to Hong Kong & coronavirus

Still current at:
4 March 2020
Updated:
26 February 2020
Latest update:Update to information on quarantine measures for Hong Kong residents who have been to South Korea in the previous 14 days ('Health' page)
This travel advice covers the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR). For mainland China, see travel advice for China
There is an ongoing outbreak of coronavirus in China and elsewhere in the region, including Hong Kong. On 28 January, the Hong Kong SAR Government announced a series of measures designed to prevent the spread of the virus. These measures include the suspension or scaling back of flights, trains, ferries and buses between Hong Kong and mainland China, and the closure of most border crossings. Expect increased health screening measures, including temperature checks, on entry to and departure from Hong Kong.
A 14-day mandatory home quarantine period is in place for new arrivals (of any nationality) who have been to mainland China in the previous 14 days. All non-Hong Kong residents who have been in South Korea in the previous 14 days will be denied entry. See Health
You should keep up to date with developments across Hong Kong. You can sign up for email alerts to be notified when this travel advice is updated.
Since June 2019, large-scale political demonstrations have taken place throughout the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR), including in areas popular with tourists. While a number of peaceful activities have taken place, many other protests have led to clashes between police and protesters involving significant violence.
The situation around protests and public gatherings can change quickly, with the potential for violence, especially during unauthorised protests. If you’re in an area where demonstrations are taking place, you should remain vigilant, follow the advice of local authorities and move away quickly to a safe place. Previous demonstrations have led to sections of the city being closed off and temporary suspension of public transport without warning. For further safety and security information surrounding protests, see Political situation
Some Mass Transit Railway (MTR) metro stations, including in major tourist areas, have been closed due to damage caused by protests. You should check the MTR and Hong Kong Transport Department websites when planning travel around Hong Kong.
There are reports of greater scrutiny from mainland authorities at border crossings between the mainland and Hong Kong at this time, including checks on travellers’ electronic devices. See Visits to mainland China
Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Hong Kong, attacks can’t be ruled out. See Terrorism
The typhoon season in Hong Kong normally runs from April to October. See Natural disasters
You should take sensible precautions against pick pocketing and other street crime. See Crime
572,739 British nationals visited Hong Kong in 2018. Most visits are trouble free.
If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.
The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.