VPN for Hong Kong
Hong Kong's internet has become more restricted since the 2020 National Security Law. A VPN encrypts your communications and provides essential privacy protection for business and leisure travellers.
What's blocked in Hong Kong
VPN use is legal for personal use in Hong Kong. There are no known cases of foreign travellers being penalised for using a VPN here.
Hong Kong has minimal censorship. Most travellers use a VPN here for public Wi-Fi protection and to access their home streaming libraries (Netflix, BBC iPlayer, etc.).
Using your eSIM and VPN together in Hong Kong
Your uPhone eSIM provides fast local mobile data in Hong Kong. Running a VPN over your eSIM connection encrypts your traffic and lets you access geo-blocked content from home. It also protects you when switching to local hotel or café Wi-Fi.
Use WireGuard — fastest and most battery-efficient for eSIM data. This gives you the best balance of speed and reliability on mobile data in Hong Kong.
Best VPN providers for Hong Kong
Any of these providers work well in Hong Kong. Ranked for travellers prioritising mobile performance:
Internet in Hong Kong — what travellers need to know
Hong Kong's internet freedom has declined sharply since the 2020 National Security Law (NSL). Some protest-related sites and content are now blocked, and social media platforms have received takedown requests. While Hong Kong is not subject to China's Great Firewall, the trajectory is concerning. For business travellers, a VPN provides essential protection. Google, WhatsApp, and most Western services still work without a VPN, but using one adds a vital layer of privacy protection given the NSL's broad scope.
Local streaming services in Hong Kong
These services are popular in Hong Kong but geo-locked — a local server unlocks them when you're at home, while a home-country server unlocks your own library when you're in Hong Kong:
National Security Law (2020) gives authorities broad surveillance powers. PDPO (Personal Data Privacy Ordinance) provides some data protections. Not subject to GDPR.
Use a VPN with strong encryption (not just HTTPS) for all business communications in Hong Kong. Hotel Wi-Fi is fast but should be treated as monitored. Set your VPN server to Singapore or Japan for the fastest speeds.
Pre-trip checklist for Hong Kong
Everything to do at home, on your normal internet, before you board.
