As of April 29, 2025, the Hong Kong Immigration Department (HKID) has fully implemented its Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) requirements for all general and business aviation (GA/BA) flights arriving at Hong Kong International Airport (VHHH). This mandate marks a significant shift in operational procedures and requires immediate compliance from all operators.

Key Requirements Now in Force

• All flight agents handling GA/BA flights into VHHH must now be registered with the APIS portal.
• Crew and passenger data for both incoming and transit travelers must be submitted electronically via the APIS portal prior to departure from the origin airport.
• Submissions must be completed before flight arrival in Hong Kong.
• Flight agents are required to contact the Hong Kong Business Aviation Centre (HKBAC) for APIS account creation at least 48 hours prior to flight operations.
• A Mandate Letter is available to support this process.

Who This Affects

All private, charter, and general aviation flights arriving into VHHH are subject to these requirements. Flights departing from Hong Kong are currently not impacted by APIS mandates.

Required Data

Operators must provide the following details for each passenger and crew member:

• Full name
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Nationality
• Travel document type, number, expiration date, and issuing authority
• Traveler status (crew/passenger, and whether in transit)

Compliance Process

The APIS system issues directives that must be followed before departure:

• Board: Passenger or crew is cleared to board (does not guarantee entry into Hong Kong)
• No-Board: Traveler must be denied boarding

Operators are legally required to follow these directives to avoid non-compliance.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

While specific fines or enforcement measures have not yet been publicly detailed, the Hong Kong Immigration Department has confirmed that compliance is mandatory. Operators failing to meet APIS requirements risk:

• Entry denial
• Operational delays
• Potential penalties or fines

Immediate Action Steps

If you operate GA/BA flights into Hong Kong and have not yet registered:

• Contact your trip support team to set up an APIS account
• Ensure all required data is collected and submitted before departure
• Train flight crews and dispatch teams on how to respond to APIS directives
• Coordinate with your trip support provider, such as Universal Trip Support Services Asia, for real-time compliance guidance and operational support

Final Thoughts

The APIS rollout for GA/BA flights is now fully active and enforceable. If your team has not already integrated APIS compliance into your pre-flight planning process, immediate action is required to avoid disruptions. With proper preparation and coordination, operators can continue to fly into Hong Kong smoothly under the new regulatory environment.

Universal is ready and able to complete Hong Kong APIS on behalf of clients. Contact your Trip Support Team for details.