Hong Kong is a tourist city that is visited by many tourists from various countries. You don't even need to apply for a visa to enter Hong Kong. Hong Kong entry visas are on arrival, meaning that tourists do not need to apply for a visa before coming to Hong Kong, but the consequence is that a tourist may be allowed or refused entry when checking immigration at Hong Kong airport. Therefore, we need to pay attention to what to prepare before coming to Hong Kong.
Hong Kong strictly regulates the possible smuggling of drugs, firearms and other prohibited items. Therefore, never try to carry the following items without the officer's permission, regarding:
- Narcotics such as Opium, Morphine, Heroin, Cocaine, Marijuana, Methadone, and analgesic drugs (painkillers)
- Psychotropic drugs, including most stimulants, hypnotics, tranquilizers and anesthetics such as Amphetamine, including preparations thereof, hypnotics, tranquillizers and stimulant drugs such as Amphetamine, 3, 4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, better known as "Ecstasy"), Benzodiazephine, Quinalbarbitone, Methaqualone, Estazolam, Midazolam, Ketamine and others
- Antibiotics and other harmful substances (poisons) such as Penicillin, Tetracycline, Corticosteroids, and others
- Controlled chemicals such as Acetic Anhydride, Ephedrine and others
- Firearms and ammunition
- Firecrackers and explosives
- Decoder tools and telecommunication equipment without the permission of the relevant officer
- Strategic Commodities
- Textiles, including natural or man-made fiber products and products of mixtures of natural and artificial goods in the form of yarns, materials, clothing or other manufactured goods
- Animals and plants
- Pesticide
- Dangerous or rare species
- Uncut diamonds
Warning:
Anyone who brings in counterfeit or pirated goods can be subject to criminal penalties.
Self-examination
To prevent smuggling, Customs officers can also conduct searches or checks on you personally. Self-examination is an examination of people or personal belongings including the act of removing the contents of your pocket to examining all parts of your body.
If the Customs officer asks you to be examined, this does not mean that you have been guilty and charged with a crime. Calm down and follow all instructions given by Customs officers who are knowledgeable and experienced in inspecting smuggling acts.
During the examination you have the right to seek assistance from an interpreter and an officer from your Country Representative. You can also enlist the help of a third party to be a witness in your hearing. If you are not satisfied with the service from the Customs officer, you can file a complaint or objection to his superior.
Source: www.customs.gov.hk
