The Australian federal government has recently revised its travel advisory for Hong Kong, urging Australians to maintain a high level of caution while visiting or transiting through the area. Notably, authorities in Hong Kong have the right to inspect personal electronic devices and request passwords from individuals, even those who are simply passing through the airport. Under Hong Kong’s sweeping National Security Law, which was enforced last month, failing to provide device passwords to the police is now deemed illegal.
From April 30, new regulations will prohibit the import and public possession of alternative smoking products, such as vapes, including at the airport. It’s important to be aware that these security laws can be applied broadly, encompassing actions that occur outside of Hong Kong, including social media activity. The Australian government’s Smartraveller advice highlights that violations of these laws can lead to severe consequences, with the maximum penalty being life imprisonment.
Foreign nationals, including Australians, have faced arrest, conviction, and imprisonment under these laws. In some cases, Hong Kong authorities can detain individuals without charges for up to 16 days, denying access to legal representation for up to 48 hours. This heightened warning comes at a time when travel to Hong Kong from Australia is on the rise, with 469,000 Australians visiting in 2025 alone, marking a significant 27% increase from the previous year, according to the Hong Kong Tourism Board. Factors driving this trend include the introduction of direct flights, appealing events, and the city’s attractiveness as a stopover destination.
As Australians continue to flock to Hong Kong, it is essential to stay informed about the legal landscape and remain cautious when travelling in the region.