Lo Wu Control Point Hong Kong China Border Crossing 2026
Border Crossing from Hong Kong to China by Bridge
Up to date guide to crossing between Lo Wu, Hong Kong and Shenzhen, China. See opening hours, typical wait times, required documents, customs rules, transport options, and step by step procedures in both directions. Everything you need for the Lo Wu (Hong Kong) ↔ Shenzhen (China) border: hours, wait times, documents, customs allowances, how to cross, and transport from both sides.
Map DirectionOverview
The Lo Wu Control Point stands as one of the world’s busiest land border crossings, serving as the primary gateway between Hong Kong and mainland China. Located just 15 minutes from central Hong Kong via the MTR East Rail Line, this crossing handles approximately 100 million passengers annually, making it China’s second-busiest land checkpoint and Hong Kong’s most heavily trafficked control point. The facility connects Shenzhen’s Luohu District with Hong Kong’s New Territories, facilitating seamless movement for residents, tourists, and business travelers. The crossing features advanced technology including 190 inspection channels (115 automated, 75 staffed) with biometric verification systems that complete self-service inspections within 2-5 seconds. The strategic location offers direct integration with both cities’ transportation networks, with the Hong Kong side connecting directly to Lo Wu MTR Station and the mainland side linking to Shenzhen Metro Line 1 and the Guangzhou-Shenzhen Railway. The checkpoint maintains multilingual support services and operates comprehensive customs and immigration facilities, serving as a critical economic and social bridge between the two territories.
Public Review Sentiments
Based on total reviews found online, we found a mixed but generally positive sentiment regarding the Lo Wu Control Point. Efficiency and convenience are frequently praised, with travelers appreciating the quick processing times and automated systems that facilitate smooth border crossings. Many reviewers highlight the fast 10-15 minute journey from Shenzhen to Lo Wu MTR station and commend the spacious and bright facilities. However, wait times during peak periods remain a significant concern, with some foreign nationals reporting over an hour waits during busy periods. The automated customs clearance system receives mixed feedback, with some noting it’s slower than other Shenzhen checkpoints and has room for improvement. Infrastructure concerns are mentioned, with some areas described as too old and requiring renovation. Crowd management varies considerably, with experiences ranging from very efficient processing to overwhelming congestion during holiday periods. Despite challenges, most travelers acknowledge the crossing’s strategic importance and overall reliability for Hong Kong-mainland China travel. The multilingual support services and comprehensive facilities are generally well-received by international travelers.
Document Requirements
For International Travellers
Entry to Hong Kong:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity
- Appropriate visa (if required based on nationality and purpose of visit)
- Onward travel documentation (for transit passengers)
Entry to Mainland China:
- Valid passport with blank pages for visa stamps
- Chinese visa or Shenzhen 5-Day Visa on Arrival (VOA) for eligible nationalities
- Completed application forms as required by entry type
For Local Citizens
- Valid Chinese passport or Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (回鄉證)
- Hong Kong entry permit (for tourism, business, or family visits)
- e-Channel registration available for frequent travelers with appropriate documentation
- Hong Kong Smart Identity Card (for permanent residents aged 11 and above)
- Valid travel documents including Hong Kong SAR passport or Document of Identity for Visa Purposes
- e-Channel eligibility available for automated clearance through fingerprint and facial recognition
Crossing Procedure
From Hong Kong Side
- Travel via MTR East Rail Line to Lo Wu Station
- Complete immigration and customs clearance at Hong Kong Immigration control
- Walk across the connecting bridge between territories
- Present valid travel documents and complete exit procedures
From China Side
- Complete mandatory health declaration via QR code (WeChat or web-based)
- Visit second-floor visa office for port visa applications (if required)
- Complete immigration clearance with fingerprint verification and document inspection
- Proceed through customs inspection channels
- Access Shenzhen Metro Line 1 or other transportation options
Special Considerations
Vehicle Imports/Exports: Private vehicles cannot cross at this checkpoint
Goods Allowances:
- Mainland Residents: CNY 15,000 combined duty-free allowance (CNY 12,000 standard + CNY 3,000 port duty-free)
- Hong Kong Residents: Standard duty-free limits for alcohol, tobacco, and personal items
Prohibited Items: Weapons, explosives, narcotics, counterfeit goods, endangered species, certain electronics (drones), and publications deemed harmful
Currency Restrictions:
- Chinese Yuan: Maximum CNY 20,000 without declaration
- Foreign Currency: USD 5,000 equivalent without declaration
Known Issues:
- Long wait times during peak periods and holidays
- Frontier Closed Area restrictions requiring valid documents
- Some infrastructure showing age and requiring renovation
Accommodations
Hotels and Restaurants in Near Border Hong Kong
- Lo Wu Commercial City: Shopping and dining complex directly connected to crossing
- Sheung Shui Area: 15-20 minutes by MTR, various hotel and restaurant options
- Tai Po Area: 25-30 minutes by MTR, more accommodation choices
Hotels and Restaurants in Near Border China
- Luohu District Hotels: Numerous budget to luxury hotels within walking distance
- Dongmen Commercial Area: 2-3 km from crossing, extensive dining and shopping
- Shenzhen Railway Station Area: Adjacent to crossing, multiple hotel options
Better Options Nearby:
Hong Kong Side: Admiralty/Central area (45 minutes by MTR, 25 km) – Premium hotels and dining China Side: Futian District, Shenzhen (5-10 km) – Modern hotels and international restaurants with better facilities
Opening Hours
Wait Time & Traffic
Average Wait: 2-5 seconds for automated channels, up to 30 minutes during normal periods
Peak Times:
- Morning Rush: 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM (weekday commuters)
- Evening Rush: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM (returning travelers)
- Weekend Evenings: Friday and Sunday evenings
- Holiday Periods: Chinese New Year, Easter, May Day Golden Week, Summer Holidays
Express Options: e-Channel services available for Hong Kong residents and registered mainland travelers with automated clearance
Border Facilities
Immigration Processing: Fully Available – 190 inspection channels (115 automated, 75 staffed)
Customs Processing: Fully Available – Modern inspection equipment and comprehensive clearance services
Health Screening: Available – Mandatory health declarations and screening facilities
Services:
- Restrooms and waiting areas
- Currency exchange services
- Food outlets in connected commercial areas
- Multilingual volunteer service station
- First aid and emergency response services
Accessibility: Wheelchair access and accessibility features available
Official Resources
Hong Kong Border Authority:
- Website: https://www.immd.gov.hk
- Contact: (852) 2824 6111 (24-hour service)
- Lo Wu Specific: (852) 2679 1105
China Border Authority:
- Website: https://www.sz.gov.cn/en_szgov
- Contact: +86 755 82324022 (Luohu Checkpoint)
- Immigration Service: 12367
Travel Advisories:
- Hong Kong: https://www.sb.gov.hk/eng/special/bound/control.html
- China: https://en.nia.gov.cn
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What are the opening hours of Lo Wu Control Point?
Lo Wu Control Point operates from 6:30 AM to midnight daily. The visa on arrival office is open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday to Sunday, with a lunch break between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. When planning your crossing, allow adequate time to complete immigration procedures before the control point closes. The control point is integrated seamlessly with Lo Wu Station on the MTR East Rail Line, making it easily accessible via public transport throughout Hong Kong.
How long are the wait times at Lo Wu border crossing?
Wait times vary significantly depending on when you visit. Standard clearance times are typically 10 to 15 minutes. However, foreigners queuing for manual inspection may experience waits of 15 to 45 minutes depending on traffic volume. During peak travel periods including weekends, public holidays, and school holiday seasons, waiting times can extend considerably, sometimes lasting several hours. To minimise delays, visit during off peak periods such as early mornings on weekdays. Avoid crossing on bank holidays, Chinese New Year, and summer holiday months when foot traffic reaches maximum capacity.
What documents do I need to cross through Lo Wu?
You must possess a valid travel document with a minimum of six months validity remaining. If you hold a Chinese visa, ensure it is valid and appropriate for your travel purpose. If you do not already hold a visa and your nationality qualifies for visa exemption in mainland China, you may enter visa free. British passport holders and citizens of numerous other countries can apply for a five day visa on arrival specifically for Shenzhen at the Lo Wu checkpoint. Additionally, you must complete a health declaration form before passing through immigration, which can be done via the China Customs WeChat mini-programme, their website, or mobile application.
What is the process for obtaining a visa on arrival at Lo Wu?
The visa on arrival process at Lo Wu involves several straightforward steps. First, complete a health declaration form by scanning the provided QR code using WeChat or accessing the China Customs online portal. Once you receive your health declaration barcode, proceed to the second floor where the visa application counter is located. Follow these steps: take a passport sized photograph, complete the official visa application form using the provided sample as reference, obtain a queue number, and wait for your turn to be called. Processing typically takes 1 to 2 hours depending on queue length. The visa on arrival counter operates from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM daily. Arriving early is recommended as the office issues a limited number of visas each day.
How much does a visa on arrival cost at Lo Wu?
The visa on arrival cost depends on which visa you are applying for. A five day Shenzhen only visa on arrival costs 130 RMB. If you apply for a single entry visa covering all of mainland China rather than just Shenzhen, the cost is 208 RMB. You must bring sufficient cash in RMB as card payments are not accepted at the visa counter. It is advisable to carry small denomination notes to facilitate the transaction.