Avoid Last-Minute Chaos: Sandhya Majji's Nightmare Hong Kong Flight Experience

Are you an Indian traveler planning to visit Hong Kong? While it is true that Hong Kong offers visa-free entry to Indian passport holders, there's one crucial requirement: a successful Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR). Sandhya Majji, a travel blogger, faced a nightmare situation at the Bangalore airport due to a seemingly small error on her PAR form.

If you don't want your travel plans derailed at check-in, here are critical insights and tips from her experience to ensure a smooth journey.

What is the Hong Kong PAR and Why is it Crucial?

The Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR) is a mandatory process for Indian citizens visiting Hong Kong. Although the process seems simple, even minor mistakes can lead to rejection. Sandhya emphasizes that accuracy is key. If any of the details on your PAR form don't match your passport exactly, you will not be allowed to board your flight.

In Sandhya's case, the problem arose when she selected the option "Bengaluru Karnataka" instead of simply "Bengaluru" in the city field. Since her passport only mentioned "Bengaluru" without "Karnataka," the airlines denied her check-in.

Tips to Avoid PAR-Related Problems

1. PAR is Not iOS-Friendly: Use Android or a Different Browser

Sandhya warns that the Hong Kong PAR form is not compatible with iOS devices. You may be able to fill in the form on an iPhone or MacBook, but you won't get the download option for your confirmation. To avoid frustration, use an Android phone, a laptop, or download Chrome/Firefox if you are on a Mac.

Having your PAR confirmation downloaded and printed is critical for both check-in and entry into Hong Kong.

2. Ensure Your Details Match Your Passport Exactly

This is perhaps the most important tip. Every detail on your PAR form—city name, spelling, date of birth, passport number—must match your passport exactly.

Sandhya's ordeal occurred because she selected "Bengaluru Karnataka" from the dropdown menu instead of just "Bengaluru." Since her passport only mentioned "Bengaluru," this discrepancy caused her PAR to be rejected at the airport. Even a small error like this can ruin your travel plans, so double-check everything before submitting the form.

3. Print Your PAR Confirmation

Digital copies won't be enough! Sandhya stresses that you need to carry a printed copy of your PAR confirmation. Airlines require it during check-in, and Hong Kong immigration officials will ask for it upon arrival.

Many travelers underestimate the importance of having physical documents, which can lead to delays or even being denied entry.

4. Be Aware of Blacklisted Regions

Unfortunately, there are reports that certain regions in India, such as Hyderabad, Kolkata, and parts of Punjab, face higher chances of PAR rejection. Sandhya advises travelers from these regions to verify their eligibility and consult with airlines before booking flights.

These measures may be linked to immigration policies or concerns over security, so it's better to be prepared than face surprises at the airport.

A Shoutout to Helpful Airline Staff

Despite the chaos, Sandhya expresses gratitude to the airline staff who stepped in to assist her. Interestingly, the staff that helped her weren't even from the airline she was traveling with. Their proactive approach helped her navigate the situation and eventually board her flight.

Link: https://www.instagram.com/p/DFiNT9ZygjP/

Sandhya believes that while travelers must take extra care with their documentation, there is also a need to improve the immigration system to reduce such errors. Automated systems should be designed to cross-check details more effectively rather than relying solely on manual input.

Her message to fellow travelers is clear: plan ahead, double-check your PAR form, and print your confirmation to avoid last-minute chaos. With these precautions, you can enjoy a stress-free trip to Hong Kong.