New Census Questionnaire Design Cuts Reporting Burden with Administrative Data
The aim of conducting population censuses is to obtain up-to-date benchmark information on the demographic and socio-economic characteristics of the population of Hong Kong and on its geographical distribution. The information is highly valuable for studying population changes and development trends. It not only facilitates Government planning and policy formulation, but also serves as an important data source for academia and the private sector to conduct research studies and business planning. Households sampled for the population census are required to complete a questionnaire, providing information on a broad range of demographic and socio-economic characteristics of their household members.
Data Topics for the Population Census
Before carrying out each census, the Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) conducts extensive consultations to collect views on data topics to be covered, involving advisory and statutory bodies, selected organisations (including non-governmental organisations and trade and industrial organisations), relevant faculties/departments in academic institutions, and government bureaux and departments. The data topics formulated are also refined according to the socio-economic developments at the time.
For the 2026 Population Census, the C&SD had conducted extensive consultations during 2023 and 2024 to collect feedback on the data topics. After considering the feedback and suggestions received, the data topics for this population census will cover six aspects.
Regarding the questionnaire content, the scope of “persons with long term care needs” will be extended from covering only the elderly persons to all persons aged 15 and above, and the information on their care needs for “personal care”, “household activities” and “community activities” will be collected. In addition, the information on the “place of origin” of persons with Chinese ethnicity will be collected. On the other hand, the data topics on “mode of transport for work and study” will be deleted from this population census.
Using Administrative Data to Simplify Questionnaire
When designing the census questionnaire, respondent burden on completing the questionnaire and data quality are among the main factors that we consider.
For the 2026 Population Census, we will use various Government administrative data more extensively, replacing some questions and simplifying the questionnaire. The questions to be replaced include floor area of accommodation (except subdivided units and rural settlements), rent of public housing units, and subsidy amounts of various government assistance schemes (e.g. Comprehensive Social Security Assistance, Social Security Allowance, Working Family Allowance, and various student finance).
This approach will not only relieve the reporting burden of respondents, but will also help improve the overall data quality.
Data Collection Work Spread Out All Year
The data collection work of the 2026 Population Census will be spread out over the year, and households will only need to submit one questionnaire during the period. Since the reference date of the 2026 Population Census results is the mid-year, we will select some households that completed the questionnaire in the first half of the year, to follow up on possible changes of the information previously provided. These households will receive a separate notification letter. If the information previously provided by the households has changed as at mid-year, they could call the Census Hotline 18 2026 to provide the latest information.
Statistics Creates Future Possibilities
By integrating information collected from survey with administrative data, the complete picture on the socio-economic characteristics of the population of Hong Kong can be obtained more effectively, providing statistical information which is vital for the future development of Hong Kong.
For more information, please visit the thematic webpage of the 2026 Population Census: www.census2026.gov.hk.
TSE Chun-sum, Sam
Statistician
18 December 2025