Accommodation different from the one in PAR for HKSAR

Question

While filing the PAR, we gave an address of a hostel. The PAR got approved. But later, we decided to stay at a different location, so we booked a different accommodation. Will that affect my entry into Hong Kong? I am travelling from Bengaluru to HKSAR and will arrive on 27th Sep. Do I need to apply for a new PAR?

Answer

Regarding your Hong Kong Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR) and change of accommodation, here is a detailed explanation:

The Hong Kong PAR system is designed to streamline entry for travelers from visa-exempt countries. When submitting the PAR, you provide personal information, travel details, and an accommodation address in Hong Kong. While the PAR is approved based on the information provided, it is generally not mandatory to update the PAR if you change your accommodation, as long as you can provide a valid address upon arrival.

Key Points:

The address in the PAR is primarily for contact and reference purposes. Hong Kong immigration does not strictly require you to stay at the specified accommodation.
Upon arrival, you will need to provide an address where you will be staying, which can be different from the one in your PAR.
Changing your accommodation does not invalidate your PAR approval or prevent you from entering Hong Kong.

Practical Recommendations:

Keep a copy of your new hotel/hostel booking confirmation to show immigration if requested.
You do not need to apply for a new PAR solely because of a change in accommodation.
If your travel plans change significantly (e.g., arrival date or flight), ensure that the details in the PAR match your actual arrival to avoid any confusion.

In summary, your change of accommodation from the one listed in the PAR will not affect your entry into Hong Kong. You can safely use your approved PAR for your arrival on 27th September and provide your new accommodation address at the immigration checkpoint if asked.