Hong Kong Travel Guide for UK BRP Holders

Asia's gateway with special transit facilities and unique entry options

Special Administrative Region

Key Information

Transit
Up to 7 days
UK Passport
180 days
Special Status
SAR
Asian Hub
Gateway

Hong Kong for UK BRP Holders

Special Administrative Region with unique policies

Hong Kong, as a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China, maintains its own immigration policies separate from mainland China. This creates unique opportunities for UK BRP holders, particularly those with UK passports who enjoy generous visa-free access, and specific transit programs for other nationalities.

The city serves as Asia's premier financial hub and gateway, making it an excellent base for exploring East Asia. Hong Kong's compact size, efficient transport, and English-language environment make it particularly accessible for UK residents.

UK Passport Holders

British passport holders enjoy visa-free access to Hong Kong for up to 180 days - one of the longest visa-free stays available globally. This generous allowance makes Hong Kong an excellent base for extended Asian travel.

Entry Requirements by Nationality

Visa policies vary significantly by passport

Visa-Free Access

  • UK Passport: 180 days visa-free
  • EU/Schengen: 90 days visa-free
  • US/Canada: 90 days visa-free
  • Australia/New Zealand: 90 days visa-free
  • Japan/South Korea: 90 days visa-free
  • Singapore/Malaysia: 30 days visa-free

Transit Programs

  • China Transit Program: 7 days for certain nationalities transiting to/from mainland China
  • Regular Transit: Up to 7 days for most nationalities with onward tickets
  • Fly-Cruise Package: Special arrangements for cruise passengers
  • Airport Transit: 48 hours for short layovers

Visa Required

  • Indian Passport: Pre-arranged visa required (despite UK BRP)
  • Pakistani Passport: Pre-arranged visa required
  • Most African Passports: Visa required in advance
  • Some Middle Eastern Passports: Check specific requirements

UK BRP Doesn't Override Nationality

Hong Kong immigration is based strictly on passport nationality, not UK residence status. Your UK BRP doesn't provide any additional benefits beyond what your passport nationality already grants.

Hong Kong International Airport Transit

World-class transit facilities

Transit Options

  • In-Transit Accommodation: Regal Airport Hotel connected to terminal
  • Shower Facilities: Available in premium lounges
  • Shopping: Extensive duty-free and retail
  • Dining: Wide variety of restaurants and cafes
  • Free WiFi: High-speed internet throughout
  • IMAX Theatre: Entertainment for long layovers

City Transit Programs

  • 7-Day Transit: For qualifying nationalities with onward tickets
  • China Transit: Special program for travel to/from mainland China
  • Transit Hotel Packages: Organized tours for transit passengers
  • Luggage Storage: Options for exploring without bags

Getting to the City

  • Airport Express: 24-minute train to Central Station
  • Buses: Multiple routes to different districts
  • Taxis: Available 24/7 with fixed pricing zones
  • Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels offer pick-up services

Efficient City Access

Hong Kong International Airport is exceptionally well-connected to the city center. Even with short layovers, you can often make quick trips to see the harbor, try dim sum, or visit major attractions.

Hong Kong Experience

Vertical city where East meets West

Iconic Attractions

  • Victoria Peak: Stunning harbor and skyline views
  • Star Ferry: Historic harbor crossing
  • Symphony of Lights: Nightly multimedia light show
  • Temple Street Night Market: Street food and shopping
  • Big Buddha (Tian Tan): Giant bronze Buddha statue
  • Avenue of Stars: Waterfront promenade honoring Hong Kong cinema

Cultural Experiences

  • Dim Sum: Traditional Cantonese brunch culture
  • Tea Culture: Traditional tea houses and modern tea rooms
  • Tai Chi: Morning sessions in public parks
  • Traditional Markets: Wet markets and street vendors
  • Temples: Wong Tai Sin, Man Mo Temple

Modern Attractions

  • Hong Kong Disneyland: Family entertainment
  • Ocean Park: Marine theme park
  • IFC Mall: Luxury shopping
  • Observation Decks: Sky100, ICC Tower
  • Rooftop Bars: World-class nightlife with harbor views

Day Trip Options

  • Macau: 1-hour ferry to the gambling hub
  • Shenzhen: Mainland China border city (visa required)
  • Outlying Islands: Lantau, Lamma, Cheung Chau
  • New Territories: Traditional villages and hiking

Practical Travel Information

Essential details for your Hong Kong visit

Currency & Costs

  • Currency: Hong Kong Dollar (HKD)
  • Budget meals: HKD 50-100 (£5-10)
  • Mid-range dining: HKD 200-400 (£20-40)
  • Budget accommodation: HKD 400-800/night (£40-80)
  • Public transport: HKD 10-50 per journey (£1-5)

Getting Around

  • MTR (Subway): Efficient and covers most areas
  • Trams: Historic "ding-ding" trams on Hong Kong Island
  • Buses: Extensive network including double-deckers
  • Taxis: Color-coded by operating region
  • Ferries: Scenic harbor crossings
  • Octopus Card: Universal payment for all transport

Language & Communication

  • Official languages: Chinese (Cantonese) and English
  • Business language: English widely used
  • Signage: Bilingual throughout the city
  • Tourist areas: English is standard
  • Mobile service: Excellent 4G/5G coverage

Climate & Timing

  • Best time: October to December (mild and dry)
  • Spring: March to May (warm, sometimes humid)
  • Summer: June to September (hot, humid, typhoon season)
  • Winter: December to February (mild, dry)

Frequently Asked Questions

Common queries about Hong Kong travel

No, Hong Kong immigration is based strictly on your passport nationality, not your UK residence status. However, if you hold a UK passport, you get 180 days visa-free access regardless of your BRP status. Other nationalities follow their passport's standard allocation.

Yes, Hong Kong offers special transit programs for travelers continuing to mainland China. You may qualify for a 7-day transit stay depending on your nationality and routing. Note that mainland China has different visa requirements from Hong Kong.

Most nationalities can transit for up to 7 days if you have onward tickets and meet certain conditions. For shorter layovers, you can remain in the international transit area for up to 48 hours. The airport has excellent facilities for extended layovers.

Hong Kong can be expensive, particularly accommodation and Western dining. However, local food (dim sum, street food), public transport, and many attractions are reasonably priced. Budget carefully and take advantage of free activities like hiking and temple visits.

Yes, ferries run frequently between Hong Kong and Macau (about 1 hour). Macau has its own separate immigration system and visa policies. Most visitors who can enter Hong Kong visa-free can also enter Macau visa-free, but check specific requirements for your nationality.

⚠️ Travel Information Disclaimer

Important: Hong Kong's immigration policies are based on passport nationality, not UK residence status. Transit and visa policies can change, particularly given the unique political situation. Always verify current requirements with official Hong Kong Immigration Department sources before travel.

Last Updated: May 2025