How to Relocate Your Household & Pets to Hong Kong

Jump right in:

• Moving & shipping household goods
• What not to pack when moving to Hong Kong
• How to ship household items & belongings Hong Kong
• Vaccinations & health requirements for Hong Kong
• What are common diseases in Hong Kong?
• Moving to Hong Kong with pets

Moving & shipping household goods

Moving household items and belongings to Hong Kong is relatively easy. Regardless of whether they are used or new, personal and household goods are free from any tariffs, import taxes, or duties. And, as they are not intended for commercial purposes, you do not have to lodge an import declaration.

How to bring your goods to Hong Kong

There are no restrictions on how much currency you can import. Therefore, you can bring as much of the local currency, or any foreign currency, as you like, bear in mind that you must declare 120,000 HKD (approx. 15,430 USD).

Note that everything you import to Hong Kong will be inspected by local customs officers upon arrival. You do not have to be personally present during the customs inspection process as long as accurate documentations are provided. In order to pick up your imports from the authorities after the inspection, you need the following documents:

• detailed packing list
• air waybill, bill of lading, or similar document
• your valid passport (if you are personally present at clearance)
• photocopy of your passport and a signed letter of authorization for the person/company handling clearance (if you are not personally present)
• appropriate license for selected imports if there are any restricted items

When shipping goods to Hong Kong, you’ll want to weigh the pros and cons of air versus sea freight.

Air Freight

• Best for: Time-sensitive goods, high-value products, medical supplies, and urgent spare parts.
• Transit time: Around 1 to 8 days, depending on the route and customs clearance.
• Pros: Fastest delivery option, perfect for urgent shipments.
• Cons: More expensive, especially for large volumes, and has a higher carbon footprint.

Sea Freight

• Best for: Large-volume, heavy, or non-urgent goods like bulk commodities, metals, and oversized items.
• Transit time: Usually 45 to 60 days or more, depending on the origin and route.
• Pros: Most economical for big or heavy shipments; lower environmental impact.
• Cons: Much slower than air freight.

If you’re relocating to Hong Kong from a distant country and need your goods to arrive quickly, air freight is often your best option. Some international and Hong Kong-based moving companies you can consider include:

• DHL
• UPS
• Sirva
• Allied
• Reloux
• Santa Fe
• Swiftrelo
• Crownrelo
• Uni Group
• Asia Tigers
• Seven seas
• My baggage
• Sendmybag
• Asia express

Shipping costs to Hong Kong vary depending on the distance and size of your shipment. Prices can range from about 30 HKD (approx. 3.9 USD) per kilogram for smaller loads to over 9,000 HKD (approx. 1,160 USD) for larger shipments.

Bringing your car to Hong Kong

You may bring your own car with you, provided that it is a right-hand drive vehicle. To clear your personal vehicle at customs, you would be required to submit the following within 30 days of the vehicle’s arrival to Hong Kong:

• import returns form
• a declaration form with
• other supporting documents

You can also simply submit an application through the Motor Vehicles First Registration Tax System website. Furthermore, you must submit your car for emissions testing.

What not to pack when moving to Hong Kong

Hong Kong Customs Department has a long list of prohibited and restricted items which you are not allowed to take through customs. For some of these, like food items or herbal and other medication, you might get an individual permit from the authorities.

Hong Kong customs regulations for tobacco products are very strict. A person aged 18 years or older can bring with them either:

• 19 cigarettes
• 1 cigar or 25g of cigars
• 25g of tobacco

Hong Kong allows travelers to bring in any amount of wine and beer (under 30% ABV) duty-free, while spirits over 30% ABV are limited to one liter per person. However, your country of departure likely has stricter export limits, most allow only 1-2 liters. Always check both your airline's baggage rules and your home country's customs regulations before packing multiple bottles, as exceeding limits can result in duties or confiscation.

Keep in mind that for any bottle or cigarette over the duty-free limit, the customs administration charges a huge amount.

How to ship household items and belongings Hong Kong

When you start packing your belongings, make sure to keep track of them by making a list, the list helps you to track items might need specific permission to enter Hong Kong. After you have everything packed, weigh and measure the size of your cargo.

Choose how you want to ship your household items: by air, land, or sea. The fastest option is usually air shipment. However, it is also the most expensive. Sea travel is on the cheaper side, yet it can take quite a while for your goods to make it to your new home.

Consulting a professional relocation company is the most stress-free option, as they can take care of these moving details for you.

Home goods storage

There are two main reasons one might consider storage:

• If you want to leave something behind because it does not comply with the import rules or will not be necessary for your new home.
• If you want to ship your belongings to Hong Kong in advance so that you have everything you need once you have arrived.

Long-term storage should be the most suitable for you if you are in need of the former, while the short-term option is better for the latter.

Popular self-storage companies include:

• Restore
• Spacebox
• Redbox
• Boxful
• My storage
• The store house
• Extra space Asia
• Cube self-storage
• Metro storage
• Apple Storage

In either case, the companies in Hong Kong usually charge you by month. Average monthly storage fees typically fall within the following price:

Vaccinations and health requirements for Hong Kong

Travel health in Hong Kong does not require any specific vaccinations before starting your journey. To be on the safe side, check your vaccination status on routine shots and make sure everything is up-to-date.

Recommended vaccinations: Some recommended vaccines you take before traveling to Hong Kong (routine shots):

Flu

Polio

Measles/mumps/rubella

Diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus

Vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, rabies, and typhoid fever are often highly recommended, especially if you plan on traveling through Southeast Asia during your stay. When gathering information for your Hong Kong visa, be sure to check the status of recent health warnings.

Health requirements to enter Hong Kong

Apart from the regular vaccinations, there are no other health requirements that you need to meet to immigrate into Hong Kong. However, do contact your family doctor for a routine check-up before you go. They should help you determine which booster shots you need.

Most of the additional immunizations you can get in Hong Kong as well. Regular vaccinations for infants and children are also available.

What are common diseases in Hong Kong?

Mosquitoes are a year-round issue in Hong Kong, with the problem peaking from April to October during the warmer, wetter months. While mosquitoes are often just bothersome, they can sometimes carry diseases. Fortunately, such cases are very rare in Hong Kong. There have been occasional reports of dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis, but most dengue cases are imported by travelers bitten elsewhere in Southeast Asia. Dengue fever is not transmitted directly from person to person and remains uncommon in Hong Kong.

Cases of Japanese encephalitis have also been reported in Hong Kong, although rarely (less than a dozen cases within the last ten years). Vaccinations for Japanese encephalitis are not a part of Hong Kong immigration requirements. However, it is recommended if you plan to travel to other Asian countries and spend time in rural areas.

Preventing insect-borne illnesses

Nevertheless, you should take a few simple precautions to prevent insect bites:

• When spending time outdoors wear long-sleeved clothing which covers your arms, legs, and ankles. Some hikers have been infected with scrub typhus by mites living in Hong Kong’s countryside.
• Apply insect repellent containing DEET to all skin not covered by clothing. Bear in mind, though, that the concentration of DEET should normally not exceed 35% for adults and 20% for children. Pregnant women and infants should not use such repellents at all.
• Sleep in air-conditioned rooms or put mosquito screens on windows and doors.
• If you do not have any screens, use a mosquito net for your bed.

Moving to Hong Kong with pets

The procedures of moving to Hong Kong with pets are regulated by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD). Keep in mind that failure to abide by the rules of this department can lead to refusal of entry or to quarantine of your pets in Hong Kong at your own cost and risk.

Bringing cats and dogs to Hong Kong

Below is a step-by-step guide for bringing in your dogs and cats into Hong Kong

Step 1: Check import eligibility and restrictions Certain breeds are prohibited or restricted in Hong Kong:

• Prohibited dog breeds: Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, and Fila Brasileiro
• Restricted cats: Savannah and Bengal cats have special import requirements
• Age restrictions: Puppies and kittens cannot be imported. Young pets may require quarantine upon arrival
• Pregnant animals: Cannot be imported

Determine your country group Visit the official AFCD website to confirm whether your country of departure is classified as Group I, II, or III. This determines your quarantine requirements.

Step 2: Prepare health documentation

Complete these requirements in order:

1. Microchip (must be done first)

Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO-compliant or AVID chip before any vaccinations.

1. Vaccinations

• Dogs: Rabies (mandatory), canine distemper, infectious canine hepatitis, and parvovirus
• Cats: Rabies (mandatory), feline panleukopenia, and cat flu

1. Health Certificate

Obtain an official health certificate from a government-approved veterinarian within 14 days of travel. The certificate must confirm your pet is healthy and meets all import conditions.

Step 3: Apply for an import permit

1. Complete Form AF240: Download the special permit application form from the AFCD website.

2. Submit your application: Send the completed form and supporting documents to the AFCD Import & Export Section well in advance of your travel date. The permit is mandatory.

3. Book quarantine (if required): If traveling from a Group III country, book quarantine space immediately through an AFCD facility. Space is limited and fills quickly.

Step 4: Arrange travel logistics

Book flights: Pets must travel as manifest cargo (not in the cabin). Book with an airline that allows pet transport and ensure the carrier is IATA-compliant. Notify HK authorities: Inform the AFCD import & export section of your pet's flight details and arrival time at least 24 hours before touchdown in Hong Kong.

Step 5: Arrival and customs clearance

You need to present the following documents upon arrival:

• Special import permit
• Animal health certificate (issued within 14 days of departure)
• Residence certificate (proving 180 days of continuous residence in country of origin)
• Vaccination certificate (vaccines administered 14 days to 1 year before departure)
• Airline certificate (confirming pet traveled on one aircraft for entire journey)

Inspection process: An AFCD officer will meet you at Hong Kong International Airport to inspect your pet and review all original documentation.

Release or quarantine:

• Group I or II countries: Pets are released after several hours of processing if all documents are in order
• Group III countries: Pets are transported directly to a quarantine facility for a minimum 120-day stay
• Dog licensing: All dogs over 5 months old are licensed by AFCD during the arrival process

Quarantine Costs (Group III Countries Only): If your pet requires mandatory quarantine, you are responsible for the following fees:

Dogs: 90 HKD/day (12 USD) — Total: 10,800 HKD (1,400 USD) for 120 days Cats: 46 HKD/day (6 USD) — Total: 5,520 HKD (710 USD) for 120 days

Therapy disability assistant dogs

To bring a service dog to Hong Kong, follow the standard dog import procedure with one additional requirement: confirming your dog's eligibility and special status as a Disability Assistance Dog (DAD).

Eligibility requirements

Your service dog must meet the AFCD's definition of a Disability Assistance Dog:

1. Individual training: The dog must be individually trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a physical disability
2. Certified organization: The dog must be certified by an organization accredited by a globally recognized body, such as:
   • Assistance Dogs International (ADI)
   • Assistance Dogs Europe (ADE)

Beyond the standard import documents, you must obtain:

• Special Permit from the AFCD

• Disabled Person's Declaration form (AFCD Form VC-DAD or equivalent)

Complete and submit these forms before bringing your disability assistance dog to Hong Kong.

Note: All other requirements from the standard dog import process still apply, including microchipping, vaccinations, health certificates, and country group-specific quarantine rules.

Pet relocation to Hong Kong: Transport and care

Hong Kong law requires you to transport your pet by air via the fastest route from your home country to Hong Kong. When making the reservation for the airline, ship your pet as “manifest cargo.” Pets are not allowed to enter the country as excess baggage.

Make sure to label the cage, box, or another container for your pet correctly. To avoid unnecessary delay during the inspection of your pet upon arrival, contact the Duty Officer of the AFCD Import and Export Section at least two working days before your scheduled arrival.

Airlines that are commonly used for pet transportation include:

• Cathay Pacific Cargo
• British Airways
• IAG Cargo
• Lufthansa
• KLM
• Air Canada
• Air France
• Japan Airlines

Can you bring birds to Hong Kong?

Due to avian influenza risks, importing birds to Hong Kong requires a special permit from the AFCD and a health certificate issued within five days of departure. Imports from some regions may be temporarily suspended—check the AFCD website for updates. All birds undergo mandatory avian influenza testing on arrival, which may take several days and incur significant costs, so plan for possible delays and extra expenses.

Can you import reptiles, rodents, or other types of pets?

Reptiles, rodents, and other pets in Hong Kong also require a veterinary health certificate dated no more than 14 days before the departure date. We recommend you always contact the AFCD to ensure a smooth process. The Prior Document Checking Service checks all your importation documents for pets in Hong Kong in advance, helping you avoid any issues.

Fees and details of AFCD

The main address for the agriculture, fisheries and conservation department is Counter 10, 5th Floor Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road Kowloon Hong Kong.

You can also email the division: [email protected] or call the general entries hotline: 2708 8885

The application includes a permit fee, which you must pay with the application. The fee ranges from 344 HKD (44 USD) for birds, reptiles, rodents, and rabbits to 432 HKD (55 USD) for cats and dogs.

Other tips for living with pets in Hong Kong

Owning a pet is quite common in Hong Kong, but many still prefer smaller animals or birds to dogs or cats, as space is usually very limited. If you want to take your dog with you, you should keep this in mind when looking for an apartment. Furthermore, not all rental agreements allow tenants to keep a pet. Make sure to clarify this issue with your prospective landlord before signing the contract.

Health and safety

It is important that you protect your cat or dog against fleas and regularly check for ticks so that your pet can safely enjoy its new environment. Snakes can be a problem, especially in the countryside. Therefore, should keep your cats indoors. Cases of attempted pet poisoning, although still reported in recent years, have declined dramatically due to educational campaigns and police attention.

Public parks etiquette

In Hong Kong, great attention is directed towards keeping parks and public areas clean. It is important that you always clean up after your dog, as failure of doing so may result in an on-the-spot fine. These fines can range from 3,000 HKD up to 25,000 HKD (approx. 390-3,220 USD) In quite a few parks, specific collection bins for dog waste are available.

Leash laws

Furthermore, if you own a large dog, you have to keep it on a leash in public places at all times. You can, however, register your dog for an examination by the AFCD to prove that it can be controlled off-leash. If you pass this examination, you are allowed to walk your dog without a leash. Failure to follow the lease laws can result in a fine up to 10,000 HKD (approx. 1,290 USD)

Pet license

You need to renew the license which your dog receives upon arrival in Hong Kong every three years. With every renewal, your dog has to be revaccinated against rabies. Failure to renew the license can result in a fine up to 10,000 HKD (approx. 1,290 USD)