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Currently, the amber alert – the lowest of the city’s three-tier travel warning system – is in effect for Russia, meaning there are “signs of threats” and Hongkongers planning to visit or who are already there “should monitor the situation, exercise caution, and attend to personal safety”.
The Security Bureau issued the amber travel alert to Russia in 2011, following the fatal bomb attack at Moscow’s Domodedovo airport in January that year. In 2016, the bureau had also advised against “non-essential travel” to the North Caucasus and areas along the border with Ukraine, citing “unpredictable security situation”.
The bureau on Sunday said it would closely monitor the situation in the country and asked residents who needed help to call the Immigration Department’s 1868 helpline or contact the Chinese embassy in Russia at the consular protection hotline on 7-499-9518661.
Travellers are also advised to register their contact details and itineraries through the government’s online portal. “It will allow the Immigration Department to contact and assist them via suitable channels, including text message, when necessary,” the bureau said.
Holders of Hong Kong passports are allowed to stay in Russia for 14 days without a visa.