Transit at Hongkong airport

Question

We will travel from US to Thailand and transit in Hong Kong airport . I can someone please advise the following:

1) Do we need to have a transit visa to transit at HKG airport. Any document is required to be filled online ahead ( before departing) for transit passenger ( US - HKG - Thailand and vice versa) .

2) We will have ~ 1.5 hrs to catch our connection flight to Bangkok . Will that be enough time assume our flight departs US airport on time . Our luggage will be sent all the way to Bangkok ( final destination)

Thank you.

Answer

If you are transiting through Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) on your way from the US to Thailand and vice versa, here are the details you need to know:

1) Transit Visa Requirements and Documentation:

For most travelers, including US citizens, a transit visa is not required if you remain airside and do not pass through Hong Kong immigration.
No specific online forms need to be filled out ahead of time for airside transit. You just need a valid passport and a confirmed onward ticket to Thailand.
If, for any reason, you plan to leave the airport transit area (e.g., long layover and wanting to visit the city), you will need a Hong Kong visa, but for short airside transit this is unnecessary.

2) Connection Time of ~1.5 Hours:

A 1.5-hour connection at HKG is generally sufficient if both flights are on time and you remain airside, since you will not need to collect luggage or go through immigration.
Since your luggage is checked through to Bangkok, you do not need to pick it up, which saves time.
HKG is a modern airport with clear signage, efficient security, and short walking distances between gates for most terminals. However, keep in mind that international connections may sometimes require a security check, so plan to move quickly between gates.

Additional Tips:

Check your arrival and departure terminals in advance; HKG has two main terminals but they are well connected.
If your airline offers “through check-in,” ensure you confirm your boarding pass for Bangkok at the US departure airport, which will streamline your transit.
Stay updated on your gate information, as HKG occasionally changes departure gates. Mobile airport apps or airline notifications are helpful.

In summary, you do not need a transit visa for a short airside transfer at HKG, and 1.5 hours is generally adequate for your connection to Bangkok, assuming timely flights and luggage checked through.

Transit at Hongkong airport

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