Preparations are underway for Hong Kong's comprehensive population census scheduled to span the entire year of 2026. The government has introduced a series of innovative approaches to streamline the data collection process and reduce the burden on residents. One notable change is the introduction of a long-form questionnaire, which will only be distributed to approximately one-tenth of the population. This selective approach aims to gather more detailed information from a representative sample while minimizing inconvenience for the broader public.

The census will leverage administrative data extensively to further ease the reporting requirements. From April to July this year, a pilot survey will be conducted to test these new methods. Residents selected for this preliminary phase will have the option to complete their forms online or through telephone interviews. For those who do not submit their responses, census officers will make home visits. Prior to these visits, households will receive notification letters, ensuring they are prepared for the officer's arrival. Officers will be easily identifiable by their official attire and government-issued IDs.

Data privacy remains a top priority in this census. The government has assured that all collected information will be handled with strict confidentiality measures. No individual data will be disclosed in any published statistics, and both paper and electronic questionnaires will be securely destroyed by the end of December 2027. These steps underscore the commitment to protecting personal information while providing valuable insights into Hong Kong's demographics. The legislative council will review the related order in February, paving the way for a successful and efficient census in 2026.