At a Glance

  • As part of Hong Kong's efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus, the Hong Kong government has announced the temporary closure of six of its border control points with Mainland China effective January 30 until further notice.
  • All rail and ferry service to and from Mainland China will be suspended. In addition, frequencies of cross-border buses will be decreased and flights to and from Hong Kong and Mainland China will be reduced.
  • The Chinese government has also suspended the issuance of individual travel permits for travelers from Mainland China to Hong Kong. This suspension does not apply to business visits, work and trips for visiting relatives.

The situation

As part of Hong Kong's efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus, the Hong Kong government has announced that it has temporarily ceased service for passengers in six of its border control points with Mainland China effective January 30 until further notice.

A closer look

  • Border closure details. All passenger rail and ferry service to and from Mainland China will be suspended in West Kowloon, Hunghom, China Ferry Terminal and Tuen Mun Ferry Terminal. Passenger services in Sha Tau Kok and MannKam To will also be suspended, but services for goods will not be affected at these points.
  • Flights affected. Several airlines in Hong Kong have stated that they plan to reduce flights to and from Hong Kong and Mainland China. For additional details, contact your travel provider or check airline websites.
  • Travel permit suspension. The Chinese government has also suspended the issuance of individual travel permits for travelers from Mainland China to Hong Kong. Individual travel permits allow residents of 49 cities in Mainland China to visit Hong Kong in their individual capacity (not on a group tour). This suspension does not apply to business visits, work and trips for visiting relatives.

Looking ahead

Fragomen will continue to monitor these policies and provide updates as needed. Check Fragomen's social media channels for breaking news updates.

Foreign nationals affected by these policies can contact their Fragomen immigration provider for advice.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.