Do Hong Kong passport holders need a visa to visit United States?

Hong Kong ordinary passport holders need a B1/B2 visitor visa to enter the United States for tourism. Hong Kong is NOT in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, so ESTA is not available — you must apply in advance at the U.S. Consulate General in Hong Kong. A Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) ordinary passport does not qualify for the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP), because the VWP requires a sovereign country. As a result, ESTA cannot be used. For tourism or a short visit, HK travelers must obtain a B-2 (or combined B1/B2) nonimmigrant visitor visa before departure. The process involves completing the DS-160 online form, paying the US$185 application (MRV) fee, scheduling and attending an in-person interview at the U.S. Consulate General in Hong Kong, and providing biometrics. Since 1 October 2025 most B1/B2 applicants are also charged a separate US$250 Visa Integrity Fee (potentially refundable on compliant departure). Visas issued to HK nationals are typically valid for 10 years with multiple entries; the actual permitted stay (commonly up to 180 days) is decided by a CBP officer at the port of entry. HKSAR passport holders are exempt from EVUS, which applies only to mainland-China 10-year B1/B2 holders.