As Hong Kong approaches the annual July 1 holiday, the Immigration Department is bracing for a significant surge in border traffic. Director Benson Kwok has estimated around 1.13 million passenger movements across all checkpoints during the period, a figure in line with recent traffic data. With a rise in outbound travel by Hong Kong residents during the summer break and an increase in mainland Chinese tourists visiting for large-scale concerts and events, the city is preparing for a challenging few weeks ahead.

For global travelers planning to visit Hong Kong or transit through its borders, the Immigration Department is taking proactive steps to manage the expected surge in passenger volume. Here’s what travelers need to know to navigate Hong Kong’s busy travel season, along with the department’s efforts to assist residents in distress abroad amidst ongoing global crises.

Projected Border Traffic and Travel Surge

• 1.13 million passenger movements are expected at all immigration checkpoints across Hong Kong during the July 1 holiday.
• The holiday period will see increased outbound travel by Hong Kong residents and a rise in mainland Chinese tourists, particularly due to major concert events and festivals.
• Increased traffic will lead to potential congestion at border checkpoints and Hong Kong International Airport.

Optimizing Immigration Channel Operations

• To mitigate delays, the Immigration Department will deploy staff flexibly to ensure checkpoints are adequately staffed during peak hours.
• Automated systems at major checkpoints will help expedite the immigration process, speeding up passport control and reducing wait times.
• Travelers are encouraged to arrive early and keep travel documents readily accessible to streamline border entry.

What This Means for Global Travelers

• Expect longer wait times at immigration checkpoints, especially during peak travel hours.
• Stay informed about current conditions at checkpoints via the Immigration Department’s website and social media channels.
• Be prepared for possible delays and check travel documents before heading to Hong Kong.

Hong Kong’s Role in Assisting Citizens Abroad Amid Global Unrest

While managing the holiday travel surge is a priority, the Hong Kong Immigration Department has also been actively involved in assisting citizens caught in international crises. Director Benson Kwok shared that the department has been working diligently to aid Hong Kong nationals stranded in the Middle East amidst ongoing political unrest.

• 21 Hong Kong nationals have been assisted in the Middle East due to the ongoing turmoil, with 20 individuals successfully relocated to safe locations.
• The remaining one individual is still in a conflict zone, and the department is working to provide further assistance.

Evacuation Efforts in the Middle East

• In one notable operation, five evacuees were transported from Iran to Azerbaijan by vehicles arranged by the Chinese embassy.
• Another two individuals successfully crossed from Israel to Egypt overland to escape conflict zones.
• Despite these successful evacuations, one Hong Kong national remains stranded in Iran, awaiting further help.

The Importance of Hong Kong’s 1868 Hotline

In addition to its direct evacuation efforts, the Immigration Department operates the 1868 hotline, which serves as a lifeline for Hong Kong citizens facing emergencies abroad. The hotline, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, has handled over 3,300 cases in the past year, with 1,500 cases already addressed in 2023.

• The hotline provides 24/7 assistance for Hong Kong residents facing medical emergencies, legal issues, or evacuation needs abroad.
• It continues to play a vital role in the department’s global crisis response efforts.

What Global Travelers Should Know

• Be prepared for potential delays and check for updates on border conditions to avoid frustration.
• Keep all travel documentation organized and easily accessible to facilitate quicker processing at immigration checkpoints.
• Stay informed about global crises, especially in conflict regions, and take appropriate precautions when traveling internationally.

Conclusion: Balancing Holiday Travel and Global Crisis Management

As Hong Kong prepares for the busy July 1 holiday period, the Immigration Department is focused on two key priorities: ensuring smooth border crossings for travelers during peak holiday traffic and providing vital support for Hong Kong residents stranded abroad in global crisis situations.

• The department’s efforts to optimize border operations will help manage the expected surge in travelers, ensuring smoother entry processes at checkpoints.
• At the same time, the department’s ongoing support for citizens caught in the Middle East unrest demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding Hong Kong nationals worldwide.
• The 1868 hotline continues to be an essential tool in the department’s emergency response efforts, assisting thousands of citizens each year in times of crisis.

For travelers heading to Hong Kong, staying informed about border conditions and allowing extra time for potential delays will help ensure a smooth journey. At the same time, those affected by crises abroad can continue to rely on the Immigration Department’s support to navigate challenges and reach safety.

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