Hong Kong Entry Guide 2026
Last updated: 2026-08-28
Complete guide to Hong Kong Customs rules: tiny tobacco allowance, duty-free wine, and the total vape ban
Hong Kong is a free port: no duty on electronics, wine or beer, and no sales tax. The exceptions are strict — only 19 cigarettes and 1 litre of spirits duty-free, a total ban on e-cigarettes and heated tobacco (possession in public illegal since 30 April 2026), CBD classified as a dangerous drug, and mandatory declaration of cash over HK$120,000. The Customs and Excise Department enforces at HKIA and the Shenzhen land crossings.
⚠️ IQOS & Heated Tobacco Warning
IQOS, glo, Ploom and all heated tobacco sticks are ILLEGAL to import into Hong Kong (since 2022) and, since 30 April 2026, illegal to possess in any public place. Penalties: up to HK$50,000 and 6 months' imprisonment for import; HK$3,000 fixed penalty for small quantities in public. Only airside transit passengers are exempt. Leave every device and stick at home.
📖 Read our in-depth Global Heated Tobacco Travel GuideEntry Process
- 1Immigration (e-Channel for eligible visitors; most nationalities visa-free)
- 2Collect checked baggage
- 3Red Channel if carrying over 19 cigarettes, over 1L spirits, or over HK$120,000 cash
- 4Green Channel otherwise — Customs X-rays bags at random
Prohibited Items
- E-cigarettes & Heated Tobacco (IQOS)Import banned since 2022; possession in public banned since 30 April 2026. Up to HK$50,000 and 6 months
- CBD & CannabisCBD is a dangerous drug since 2023 — up to 7 years' imprisonment
- Stun guns, pepper spray, knivesClassified as arms — possession is a serious offence
- Counterfeit GoodsFake branded products are seized and can be fined
Duty-Free Allowances
- Alcohol1L of liquor over 30% ABV; wine and beer duty-free without limit
- Tobacco19 cigarettes OR 1 cigar OR 25g tobacco (residents: only if away 24h+)
- Other GoodsNo duty or sales tax on electronics, cosmetics or other goods
- CashDeclare over HK$120,000 (≈ US$15,000) on arrival
Declaration Tips
- • Do not bring any vape or IQOS — not even an empty device
- • Declare a carton of cigarettes: duty is about HK$600, a fine is far more
- • Check supplements and skincare for CBD before packing
- • Carry prescriptions for medication, especially controlled drugs