LOCAL, VISA, TRANSPORTATION, and TRAVEL INFORMATION

Visiting Hong Kong - practical details

Hong Kong has a subtropical climate, with autumn (September to November) widely regarded as one of the best seasons to visit. Late October generally offers comfortable temperatures, pleasant breezes, and lower humidity compared to the summer months.

The local currency is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD). Currency exchange services and ATMs are widely available throughout the city, including at the airport. Major credit cards and electronic payment methods are commonly accepted.

Hong Kong operates on Hong Kong Time (UTC+8). The standard electrical supply is 220V, using British-style three-pin plugs.

Chinese and English are the official languages of Hong Kong. Public signage, transportation announcements, and most menus are bilingual, making navigation convenient for international visitors.

Additional information, including travel tips and local guidelines, can be found here:

• https://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/search.html?tag=/content/cq:tags/dhk/tag/traveller-info/practical-info&tagName=Practical%20Info

• https://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/plan/traveller-info/good-to-know.html

Visa Requirements

Participants are advised to check visa and entry permit requirements for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) in advance of travel. Visa requirements vary depending on nationality and travel document held.

Many participants may be eligible for visa-free entry for a limited period, while others are required to obtain a visit visa or entry permit prior to arrival.

Details on visa requirements by nationality and additional information can be found here: https://www.immd.gov.hk/eng/services/visas/visit-transit/visit-visa-entry-permit.html#part1 and here: https://www.immd.gov.hk/eng/services/index.html#tab_f_1

Invitation Letter
An Invitation Letter for visa or business travel purposes will be available after Congress registration is completed. The letter can be downloaded from the registration system when available.

Useful link
https://www.gov.hk/en/nonresidents/visarequire/general/index.htm

Getting Around Hong Kong

Hong Kong has a well-developed and efficient public transportation system, making it easy to travel around the city. The Mass Transit Railway (MTR) and public buses are the most common and affordable options for both residents and visitors.

Octopus Card
The Octopus Card is a convenient stored-value card that can be used across almost all forms of public transport, including MTR, buses, trams, and ferries. It is widely accepted and recommended for visitors who plan to travel frequently.
Using an Octopus Card allows for quick and seamless travel without the need to purchase individual tickets. Visitors can find more details and purchase options here: https://www.octopus.com.hk/en/consumer/octopus-cards/products/sold-tourist/index.html

MTR Tourist Day Pass
For short stays or frequent travel within a single day, the MTR Tourist Day Pass is a convenient option for getting around Hong Kong.

• Price: HK$75 (approximately USD 9.5)
• Validity: Unlimited MTR rides for 24 consecutive hours from the first use
• Eligibility: Visitors staying in Hong Kong for less than 14 days
• Where to Buy: MTR Customer Service Centres, selected convenience stores, or online (for airport pickup)

The pass is suitable if you plan to make multiple MTR trips within a single day. However, it is limited to the MTR system and does not cover Airport Express, Light Rail, MTR Bus services, East Rail Line First Class, or travel to/from Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau stations.
For most visitors, the Octopus Card may offer greater flexibility, as it can be used across different modes of transport. In general, it provides better value unless you expect to take more than 6–8 MTR trips in one day.

Useful link https://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/travel-guide/traveller-essentials/getting-around.html

Explore Hong Kong

Hong Kong offers a unique mix of modern city life, cultural heritage, and diverse food experiences, making it an ideal destination to explore alongside the IUFoST World Congress.
Visitors can enjoy iconic attractions such as Victoria Harbour and its skyline, panoramic views from The Peak, as well as traditional neighborhoods, local markets, and a wide range of culinary experiences from street food to internationally recognised dining.
To help you plan your visit, a selection of group tour programmes is available through the Hong Kong Tourism Board. These tours are suggested as possible options for delegates who wish to explore the city before or after the Congress, covering a variety of interests including culture, heritage, food, and sightseeing.

Further details and booking information can be found here: https://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/tours.html

Kindly note that these tour programmes are provided by the Hong Kong Tourism Board and associated operators. They are shared here for your reference, and delegates may choose from these or explore other arrangements based on their preferences.