The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) is a separate travel area with autonomy over its immigration policy. In accordance with the Basic Law, the HKSAR Government applies immigration controls on entry into, stay in and departure from the HKSAR by persons from foreign states and regions. The Basic Law also sets out the mechanism regulating the entry into the HKSAR of persons from other parts of China.

Apart from controlling the movement of people into and out of the HKSAR, the Immigration Department provides a wide range of services to local residents including the issue of HKSAR passports and other travel documents, visas and identity cards, the handling of nationality matters and the registration of births, deaths and marriages. To enhance these services, the Immigration Department is also in the process of implementing a long-term information systems strategy through the application of advanced technology. The policies aim to keep at an acceptable level population growth brought about by immigration and also to facilitate the admission of persons, including those of outstanding talent, professionals and investors who would bring substantial benefits to help develop the economy. Immigration procedures for Hong Kong residents, tourists and business people are streamlined wherever possible, while efforts are also made to prevent the entry of undesirable persons and the departure of persons wanted for criminal offences, detect and prosecute immigration law offenders and remove illegal immigrants.