Entry requirements for Cape Verdean citizens visiting Hong Kong
Cape Verdean citizens can travel to Hong Kong without a visa for stays of up to 30 days for purposes such as tourism or visiting family. For business trips or stays exceeding 30 days, a visa is required. If your travel plans include Mainland China, ensure you check visa requirements and obtain the necessary visa before starting your trip.
Documents required for entry into Hong Kong from Cape Verde
To enter Hong Kong, Caboverdians need the following:
- Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
- Travel ticket: A confirmed ticket for return or onward travel.
- Accommodation proof: Hotel reservations or other documentation covering the entire stay.
- Financial proof: Evidence of sufficient funds to support the trip.
Note: Travel insurance is mandatory for entry into Hong Kong. The insurance policy must provide coverage of at least €30,000 for medical emergencies, including evacuation and repatriation.
Top sights in Hong Kong for Cape Verdean citizens to explore
- Victoria Peak. Known as "The Peak," this is Hong Kong Island’s highest point and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, Victoria Harbour, and surrounding islands.
- Lantau Island and the Big Buddha. Lantau Island is home to the Tian Tan Buddha, a towering 34-meter bronze statue. Visitors can also enjoy a ride on the Ngong Ping 360 cable car and explore the historic Po Lin Monastery.
- Wong Tai Sin Temple. This renowned Taoist temple is dedicated to Wong Tai Sin and is famous for its stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance. Visitors can experience kau cim, a traditional fortune-telling practice that attracts both locals and tourists.
- Man Mo Temple. One of the oldest temples in Hong Kong, Man Mo Temple is dedicated to the gods of literature (Man) and war (Mo). Its atmosphere is enriched by intricate wooden carvings and hanging incense spirals, offering a glimpse into Hong Kong’s rich cultural heritage.
- Ocean Park. A premier amusement park, Ocean Park combines thrilling rides, marine animal exhibits, and engaging entertainment. Visitors can enjoy stunning coastal views from the park’s iconic cable car.
You don't need a transit visa.
Pets (cats and dogs) are allowed to be imported to Hong Kong.
Imported animals must be at least 2 months old. Animals under 4 months of age are imported into the country only with a veterinary examination.
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What do I need to import a pet?
When importing pets (dogs and cats) over the age of 4 months, you must present a veterinary certificate with a note on rabies vaccination.
- You must have a veterinary certificate marked with rabies vaccination.
- International Veterinary passport.
- Animals must be identified with an implanted microchip.
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All animals must be transported by the shortest route (on direct flights) to Hong Kong. The consignee must obtain a permit to import the animal into Hong Kong (Import Permit) before shipment.
In case of emergencies, you can contact the local police, ambulance, fire department or other emergency services at a single number - 999.
Hong Kong customs regulations do not restrict the import of foreign currency, and any amount is subject to a mandatory declaration. Import of the national currency is strictly prohibited.
Hong Kong can be imported without duty:
- 1 liter of various alcoholic beverages;
- 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco;
- 60 ml of perfume and 250 ml of еau de toilette;
- import of personal items is allowed for personal use.
Forbidden:
- import of weapons (including gas canisters and stun guns);
- pornography on any media;
- toxic substances;
- counterfeit products;
- poisons and Explosives.
Website of the Department of Customs and excise duties. .
Important! Narcotic Drugs, certain types of antibiotics and medicines, combustible and explosive substances can only be imported with a special permit obtained in advance from the Competent Authorities of Hong Kong. It is forbidden to export valuable items and works of art without presenting a store receipt.
1. Be alert to typhoon signals.
Hong Kong experiences typhoons in the spring and summer (most often between July and September), but there is a warning system in place to help keep everyone safe.If you are visiting Hong Kong in the spring and summer, the HKO app can be useful for receiving warnings about thunderstorms, rain, and typhoons.
The system categorizes typhoons by number from 1 to 10. So, for example, a signal number 1 (or "T1") means a tropical cyclone that is still far from Hong Kong but may affect its territory. At the other end of the scale, the very rare Tropical Storm Signal 10 (or "T10") means strong, sustained winds of more than 118 km/h with destructive force.
2. Purchase an octopus card.
The octopus can go almost anywhere, and that's the idea behind the well-known Hong Kong Octopus card, a multi-purpose card (physical or digital) that can be used to pay for any public transportation throughout Hong Kong.
You can also use it to buy movie tickets, vending machine items, convenience stores and supermarkets, and even full meals and drinks at dozens of different restaurants and chains. The best place to buy an Octopus card is at 7-Eleven in the airport arrivals hall. You can reload the card at any 7-Eleven or Circle K store, as well as at metro stations and through the Octopus app.
By the way, if you don't want to carry a physical card with you, you can use Octopus mobile. Simply download the Octopus for Tourists app and you can top up directly from your credit or debit card without queuing. You can also easily apply for a refund when you leave Hong Kong.
3. Take the Airport Express and enjoy a free subway ride.
If you've already got your Octopus card organized, a great way to use it for the first time is to take the Airport Express. It's part of the extensive Hong Kong MTR network that takes you from Hong Kong International Airport to Central Station in just 24 minutes.
4. Download MyMapHK for hiking.
MyMapHK is a useful all-in-one application that will help you get your bearings. It provides convenient access to official maps published by the Department of Land Resources with all the necessary information about public facilities near your location.
5. Bring your own shopping bag.
In December 2022, the tax on plastic bags in Hong Kong was doubled to HK$1 to encourage people to carry reusable bags and do the right thing for the environment.
6. "Use water for free" application.
Another initiative that helps the environment and is also very convenient for visitors is the Water for Free app. Simply download the app and it will show you directions to the nearest fresh water drinking fountain. All you need to do is bring a refillable water bottle with you.
Author: Expat Living
April 18, 2023
Source: https://expatliving.hk