Safety and Security

Political situation

Hong Kong and Macao are generally stable societies and are underpinned by the rule of law.

Since June 2019, there has been sustained demonstrations in Hong Kong in pursuit of certain political objectives. The frequency and intensity of demonstrations have dropped considerably during the COVID-19 pandemic, however, due to recent heightened political sensitivity there could be an increase in demonstrations and violence.  Irish citizens and members of the public are urged to be vigilant and are strongly advised to avoid areas where protests and unplanned public gatherings are taking place and to follow the advice of the local authorities.

Macao was unaffected by the social unrest.

National Security Law

A new National Security Law passed by Mainland Chinese authorities came into effect in Hong Kong on 1 July 2020. It introduces offences on secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with a foreign country with mandatory penalties up to and including life imprisonment depending on the severity of the charges. People arrested under the National Security Law may be transferred to Mainland China for trial under certain circumstances.

The full extent of this law and how it is applied is not yet clear, but charges under this legislation can be applied to activities, including statements made on social media, undertaken while outside of Hong Kong.

Irish citizens are reminded that they have a right to request consular assistance if they are detained by local authorities.

Terrorism

There is an underlying global threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. The Hong Kong and Macao governments have put in place extensive measures to combat terrorism including upgraded police capability, improved air travel security, improved border controls and upgraded emergency services response.

Additional Security Measures at Hong Kong International Airport

Passengers are recommended to arrive at the airport three hours before their departure time for relevant checks at the designated access control checkpoints equipped with 24-hour security cameras. Please note that passengers must possess a ticket or boarding pass to gain access to the terminal building.

Other members of the public, including those who may want to accompany departing passengers or receiving passengers arriving at the airport are advised not travel to the airport unless absolutely necessary. In any event, only passengers will be granted access to the airport terminal.

Crime

The incidence of violent crime is very low but some street crime and pick pocketing can occur as in any large urban area. Extra care should be taken in crowded areas in respect of passports, money and credit cards – stay vigilant in train stations and markets.

If you are a victim of a crime while in Hong Kong or Macao report it to the local police immediately. The Crime Report numbers are as follows:

• 999 for Hong Kong
• 993 for Macao

Hong Kong Police operate an 'e-Report Centre' which is designed for non-emergency report or enquiry. Instant response to the report or enquiry will not be available. In case of emergency, please call 999 or contact the nearest police station. 

The Tourism Crisis Management Office (+853) 2833 3000 (24-hour hotline) are able to provide general assistance in English, Cantonese, Mandarin and Portuguese to tourists in Macao. In case of emergency, please call 993 or contact the nearest police station. A leaflet to assist with understanding the crime reporting procedures can be found here. 

You can also contact us at the Consulate General of Ireland if you require assistance.

Public Transport/Driving

Hong Kong is renowned for its safe, affordable and reliable public transport system, including ferry, rail, bus and tram.

The Octopus Card is a stored-value electronic card that can be used for most public transport, as well as purchases in convenience stores, fast food shops, supermarkets, cake shops, vending machines and more. 

The high-speed Airport Express takes approximately 24 minutes to reach Hong Kong Island and is the fastest way to get between the city and the airport. Airport Express passengers are able to take a free shuttle bus from Kowloon and Hong Kong stations to major hotels. Both these stations also provide free in-town check-in services for major airlines, when departing Hong Kong, which can be very convenient for passengers with a late departure flight.

The Macao authorities consider the taxi service Uber to be illegal, and the Macao Police has recently been taking enforcement action against both the drivers and passengers of unlicensed taxi services, including Uber.

For holders of an Irish driving licence who wish to drive in Hong Kong, you may do so on the strength of your valid Irish driving licence or international driving permit if you are a visitor to Hong Kong (visitors mean that you arrive in Hong Kong other than to take up residence for a period not exceeding 12 months).

For holders of an Irish driving licence who wish to drive in Macao and who are staying for less than a year – you must go to the police station to obtain an official paper to legalise your Irish licence.

Lost or stolen passport

If your passport is lost or stolen while in Hong Kong or Macao the Consulate General of Ireland in Hong Kong can – in emergency situations – issue an emergency travel document or temporary passport. You will need to submit a completed application, duly witnessed and with all supporting documents and the appropriate fee. Proof of identity and citizenship will be required, including an original or certified long-form birth certificate in all cases.

Local Laws and Customs

Hong Kong Local Laws

Hong Kong law, like Ireland, is a common law system with criminal and civil law codes.

Some of the city’s public hygiene rules and laws include:

• Prohibition of eating and drinking on most public transport in Hong Kong;
• Strict laws about maintaining environmental hygiene, including fixed penalty fines for littering or spitting.

There is also a zero tolerance for ticketless travel on the Mass Transit Railway (MTR).

The import and re-export of all elephant ivory and its products, including tourist souvenirs, is banned. Offenders could face a fine and/or imprisonment.

Photographing of military installations is prohibited.

The Hong Kong SAR Government has restrictions in place on the quantity of powdered baby formula allowed for persons departing the territory. Penalties apply for non-compliance.

Smoking restrictions, including e-cigarettes

Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is prohibited in all indoor public places in Hong Kong and Macao, including restaurants, bars and malls. The smoking ban is also implemented on public transport carriers, within public transport facilities, and in both the indoor and outdoor areas of some premises, including public beaches and swimming pools and escalators.

Any person smoking or carrying a lighted cigarette, cigar, or pipe in a designated no-smoking area will be liable to a fixed penalty.

Hong Kong has banned the import, sale and manufacture of electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco products and herbal cigarettes, with offenders subject to a maximum fine of HK$50,000 (US$6,370) and six months’ imprisonment. Consumers are still allowed to smoke vape gadgets.

If you’re entering Hong Kong with e-cigarettes containing nicotine, you’ll need a medical prescription indicating that they’re for personal use. If the e-cigarette is nicotine-free and for personal use, no medical prescription is needed.

For more information, visit the

• Hong Kong Tobacco and Control Office 
• Macao Tobacco Prevention and Control Office

Control of Cannabidiol in Hong Kong

Cannabidiol (“CBD”)is listed as a dangerous drug under the control of the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance in Hong Kong. Possession and consumption of CBD in Hong Kong will be subject to a maximum penalty of seven years' imprisonment and a fine of HK$1 million. Trafficking and illicit manufacturing of CBD are liable to a maximum penalty of life imprisonment and a fine of HK$5 million. Further information can be found here.

Macao Local Laws

Macao is a civil law system, in that legislation is the main source of law and case law, while clearly relevant, is not a major source of law. Macao has the five 'classic' codifications: the Civil Code, the Commercial Code, the Civil Procedure Code, the Penal Code, and the Criminal Procedure Code. Proceedings will be conducted in Portuguese.

Security restricted articles

Hong Kong and Macao have strict laws regarding the import and/or possession of any type of weapon and items that may resemble weapons, including replicas, antiques, toys and fashion accessories.

The laws apply to individuals in Hong Kong and Macao and those transiting Hong Kong and Macao airports, and apply to hand luggage, checked luggage and luggage in transit. For further information, please see the websites of:

• Macao Civil Aviation Department
• Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department
  
• Hong Kong Police
  

Illegal drugs

The Hong Kong and Macao administrations have a zero tolerance policy against illegal drug use. Possession of illegal drugs can lead to heavy fines and imprisonment.

Penalties also exist for being in possession of sleeping tablets or prescription medication without a prescription.

Natural Disasters and Climate

Hong Kong and Macao have a sub-tropical climate with distinct seasons. The only predictable weather events that could have a significant impact on your travel plans are typhoons and rainstorms. Typhoon season begins in May and ends in November.

When a typhoon is approaching, warnings are broadcast on television and radio and many buildings display the typhoon warning signal. Public offices shut down when the ‘Typhoon 8’ signal is hoisted and people are required to be indoors until the Typhoon passes.

Please see the following links in relation to the various weather signals and warnings:

• Hong Kong Observatory http://www.hko.gov.hk/textonly/v2/explain/intro.htm; and
• Macao Observatory https://www.smg.gov.mo/en.

Additional Information

Entry requirements (visa/passport)

Hong Kong SAR, Macao SAR and mainland China maintain separate customs and immigration boundaries under the “One Country, Two Systems” governance arrangements. Passports and appropriate visas are required for travelling between the territories. Travelling between Hong Kong, Macao or China and returning to one of the territories constitutes a multiple journey.

To enter Hong Kong and Macao you must possess a passport that is valid for at least one month beyond the date of your intended stay, adequate funds to cover your stay and evidence of onward/return transportation. Many neighboring areas require that your passport is valid for at least six months before they will allow you to enter, so if you plan on regional travel beyond Hong Kong, make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the date you plan to enter such areas.  You do not need a visa for tourist visits of up to 90 days but a visa may be required if travel is other than for tourism purposes. Details on general visa requirements can be found below:

• Hong Kong
  
• Macao
  

Health

Health services in Hong Kong and Macao are of a high standard. Before you travel, you should, however, visit a doctor or the Tropical Medical Bureau to check what vaccinations are required.

You should also have comprehensive medical insurance before you travel to Hong Kong, as treatment and medication can be extremely expensive.

For up-to-date information in relation to public health alerts please visit the website of the Macao Health Bureau and Hong Kong Centre for Health Protection.

Irish citizens should note that during the pandemic there were instances of children in a hospital ICU or paediatric ward being separated from parents and parents not being allowed to see or visit their child for the duration of the hospitalisation period.  If this happens to you, you can call +852 2535 0700 for 24/7 urgent consular assistance.

Dengue fever

Dengue fever is an acute mosquito-borne infection caused by the dengue viruses. This is found in tropical and sub-tropical regions around the world and dengue fever is an endemic illness in many countries in South East Asia. Hong Kong and Macao are liable to Dengue outbreaks.

Air quality

Hong Kong and Macao can experience periodic episodes of high levels of air pollution. We advise all Irish visitors and residents to monitor the updates and advisories from:

• Hong Kong Air Quality Health Index  
• Macao Observatory