Visa rules by passportLast checked October 16, 2026
Do citizens of Hong Kong SAR China need a visa for the United Kingdom?
Hong Kong SAR ChinaUnited KingdomOnline authorisation requiredNationals of Hong Kong SAR China do not need a visa for short stays in the United Kingdom, but must get an online travel authorisation (ETA) before travelling.
- Authorisation
- ETAOfficial page(opens in a new tab)
- Fee
- GBP 20
- Typical stay
- Up to 6 months as a Visitor
- Note
- Hong Kong SAR passport (excepted from the visa-national list).
Diaspora: about 142,011 people born in Hong Kong SAR China live there (UN DESA 2024).
The visa route
Standard Visitor visaThe Standard Visitor route covers tourism, visiting family and friends, some business activities, short study and other permitted activities, usually for up to 6 months. Depending on nationality, you either need a Standard Visitor visa before travel, need an electronic travel authorisation (ETA), or need neither. Everyone must still meet the visitor requirements and only do permitted activities. Regular visitors who need a visa can choose a long-term visa valid for 2, 5 or 10 years.Requirements and documentsAnother passport?
Rules depend on the passport you travel on. Visas or residence elsewhere can open easier entry.
Official sources
Rules change: check the official page before you travel.
General information from official sources, not legal advice. Even without a visa, entry isn't automatic: border officers decide, and conditions of stay apply.