Hong Kong residents will face higher costs for several major public services next year, including healthcare, education, and parking, as part of various fee adjustments, except for a reduction in electricity bills.
A&E service fee to rise to HK$400
The Accident and Emergency (A&E) service fee will increase from HK$180 per visit to HK$400 starting January 1, 2026. Patients classified as Category I (critical) or Category II (emergency) will be exempt from payment, with no need to apply.
For family medicine clinic services, dressing or injection fees will rise from HK$19 per attendance to HK$50.
Other increased charges include hospitalization at HK$300 per day and specialist outpatient clinics at HK$250 per visit.
HKDSE fees to increase by 4 percent
The Hong Kong Examinations and Assessment Authority (HKEAA) has announced a 4 percent increase in the fees for the 2026 Diploma of Secondary Education (DSE) exams,
A typical candidate taking six subjects will now pay a total of HK$3,630, which is HK$140 more than this year. Additionally, a new special application fee of HK$2,000 will apply for non-standard exam arrangements.
Illegal parking penalties to rise to HK$400
The fixed penalty for illegal parking will increase from HK$320 to HK$400, marking a 25 percent rise.
Fixed penalties for 19 other traffic offenses related to road safety and traffic congestion, including speeding and running red lights, will face an average 50 percent increase, with penalties ranging from HK$480 to HK$1,500.
Metered parking fees for private cars will also double.
HK$8 toll for the Central Kowloon Bypass
The Yau Ma Tei section of the Central Kowloon Bypass commenced operation this year without a toll. However, an HK$8 toll will be charged when the entire route opens in mid-2026.
Electricity tariffs to be reduced
In a welcome change, Hong Kong's two power companies will lower electricity charges for customers next year, with CLP Power reducing tariffs by 2.6 percent and HK Electric by 2.2 percent.
This reduction is expected to save an average three-person household around HK$10 per month.
