Hong Kong Raises Airport Departure Tax By 67 Percent

Heads-up, travellers! If you’re flying out of Hong Kong soon, your next flight could cost a lot more. Starting October 1, the city is hiking its airport departure tax by 67 percent. That’s an extra $80 (which is about ₱4,570) per passenger aged 12 and above, making the total $200 (or around ₱11,500) per departure.

This is the first increase in 22 years. Hong Kong lawmakers passed the Air Passenger Departure Tax (Amendment) Bill earlier this year to boost government revenue. Officials expect the tax to generate around $1.6 billion annually. Some critics worry it could make Hong Kong less attractive compared to other Asian travel hubs, but supporters say the fee is still affordable and reasonable.

Not everyone pays the full price. Transit passengers or those connecting flights without leaving the airport are still exempt. From October, exemptions get a little wider:

• Travellers staying in Hong Kong no longer than 48 hours

• Visitors arriving by land, sea, or other ways and flying out within 48 hours

If you fall under these categories, the tax will still appear in your ticket, but you can reclaim it through a soon-to-launch HKIA online portal.

Also read: Hong Kong for First-Timers: 5 Attractions You Can Visit by MTR

Image credit: Hongkong International Airport Facebook Page

The good news? Tickets purchased before October 1 aren’t affected, so booking early can save you that extra ₱4,570. Airlines usually include this tax in ticket prices anyway, so the hike may not feel huge unless you book later.

Also read: New Hong Kong Visa Fees 2025 For Foreign Professionals: What You Need To Know

For Filipino travellers who have Hong Kong already in your 2025 plans, the best way to beat the hike is to lock in your flights before October 1. Even if your trip is for December or next year, tickets bought now won’t carry the higher tax. That’s almost ₱5,000 in savings per person.

For barkada or family trips, that’s enough to cover an extra Disneyland ticket, more shopping money in Mong Kok, or an extra night in your Airbnb. If you’re going for a quick Hong Kong-Macau combo trip, aim for less than 48 hours in Hong Kong so you can claim the refund later.

Featured image credit: Hongkong International Airport Facebook Page