In October 2026, Frontex (the EU border agency) and European travel-trade bodies warned of more than 150 unofficial websites offering ETIAS, some using EU symbols. Because no application is processed before launch, any fee paid today buys nothing. When ETIAS opens, apply only on the official EU website or app.
Specific to Hong Kong passport holders
HKSAR passport
The visa exemption applies only to holders of a 'Hong Kong Special Administrative Region' passport. They visit visa-free for 90 days in any 180 and will need ETIAS.
BN(O) passport
British National (Overseas) holders are visa-exempt as British nationals and will also need ETIAS.
PRC passport
With a People's Republic of China passport you need a Schengen short-stay visa. ETIAS is not for you and will not replace the visa.
Two passports, one ETIAS
ETIAS is linked to the passport you register. If you hold HKSAR and BN(O) passports, apply with the one you will travel on and show that same passport at check-in and at the border.
Macao
The same logic applies to Macao: the exemption covers holders of a 'Região Administrativa Especial de Macau' passport.
The basics, in short
- Passport issued under 10 years ago, valid 3 months after you leave.
- 90 days in any 180, all Schengen countries together.
- ETIAS at launch: €20, valid 3 years or until the passport expires.
Rollout, decision times and the 30 countries: full ETIAS guide.
Going to France?
Passport, money to show, insurance and hosting rules for Hong Kong passport holders visiting France.
France rules for Hong Kong passport holdersFAQ
Do HKSAR passport holders need ETIAS now?
No. ETIAS is not in operation (checked 21 October 2026). HKSAR holders travel visa-free and register in the EES at the border.
Does a BN(O) passport need ETIAS?
Yes, once ETIAS starts. BN(O) holders are visa-exempt for the Schengen area.
I have a PRC passport and live in Hong Kong. Can I use ETIAS?
No. PRC passport holders need a Schengen visa.
Can I apply with my BN(O) and travel on my HKSAR passport?
No. The authorisation is tied to the passport you register; travel on that same passport.
Checked: 21 October 2026, against eur-lex.europa.eu, travel-europe.europa.eu, eur-lex.europa.eu, home-affairs.ec.europa.eu. Rules can change: official sites prevail. No ETIAS start date has been announced; we will not guess one.