AIDP 2026 · 27–29 November 2026
Pre-arrival Information
Visa guidance, local practicalities, and useful contacts for conference participants.
Welcome to Hong Kong. The information below is intended to help you prepare for your visit. Please check the official sources linked in each section, particularly for visa requirements and weather warnings.
Visa requirements
Check before you travel. Visa requirements should be confirmed on the Hong Kong Immigration Department website. Holders of passports from many countries do not require a visa for short visits, but this depends on nationality and travel document. Please allow sufficient time for any visa application.
01Foreign passport holders
Participants holding foreign passports, except PRC passports and Chinese residents of Taiwan.
Visit, transit and entry permit information02PRC passport holders residing in China Mainland
Participants holding People's Republic of China passports and residing in China Mainland.
Overseas Chinese entry arrangement03PRC passport holders residing overseas and Taiwan residents
Participants holding PRC passports and residing overseas, or who are Chinese residents of Taiwan.
Overseas Chinese entry arrangementWeather
Hong Kong has a subtropical climate with distinct seasons. Typhoon season begins in May and ends in November. When a typhoon is approaching, warnings are broadcast on television and radio.
November conditions
- Daytime temperatureUsually around 24°C
- Night-time temperatureUsually around 19°C
- HumidityModerate
- ConditionsMild and generally pleasant, with cooler evenings and occasional rain
Typhoon warnings
When typhoon signal no. 8 is in place, most businesses and shops close and flights may be cancelled. A separate warning system operates for heavy rain.
Currency and payment
Hong Kong dollar (HKD)
- Exchange rateApproximately 7.80 HKD to 1 USD
- Currency regimeLinked to the US dollar
Payment methods
- Credit cardsAmerican Express, Visa, and MasterCard are widely accepted at hotels, shops, and restaurants.
- Mobile paymentsApple Pay, Google Pay, Alipay, and WeChat Pay are accepted at many stores. Look for payment signs at entrances.
- Octopus cardWidely used for public transport and shops. Physical cards are available, and a tourist app is also offered. Octopus information for visitors
ATMs
ATMs are widely available throughout Hong Kong. Many accept international cards, and HSBC machines provide 24-hour cash withdrawal for Visa and MasterCard holders. Some ATMs also offer foreign currency withdrawal.
Time zone
- Time zoneUTC+8, Hong Kong Standard Time (HKT)
- Daylight savingNot observed in Hong Kong
Electricity and voltage
- Voltage220 volts AC, 50 Hz
- Plug typeThree-pronged UK-style plug (Type G)
- Hotel bathroomsMost have 100V outlets available
Adaptors
Inexpensive adaptors, portable chargers, and power packs can be purchased at most convenience stores in Hong Kong.
Internet access
HKUST campus Wi-Fi
- Networkeduroam, available throughout the HKUST campus for academic visitors
Public Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi.HK hotspots are available at tourist attractions, shopping malls, parks, museums, ferry terminals, and government buildings.
Emergency contacts and useful numbers
Emergency services: 999 for police, fire, and ambulance.
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Emergency services (police, fire, ambulance) | 999 |
| Police hotline | +852 2527 7177 |
| Hong Kong International Airport | +852 2181 8888 |
| Immigration Department | +852 2824 6111 |
| Hong Kong Tourism Board | +852 2508 1234 |
| Weather information | +852 1878 200 |
| Directory enquiries | 1081 |
Sources: Hong Kong Tourism Board; Hong Kong Observatory.