The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has announced a new measure aimed at improving immigration clearance convenience for non-Chinese Hong Kong permanent residents. These residents will soon be eligible for a card-type document, known as Mainland Travel Permits for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (non-Chinese citizens). This document will facilitate their visits to Mainland China for business, travel, and visiting relatives, with issuance starting on 10 July by the Exit and Entry Administration.
With this new card, holders will benefit from self-service clearance at Mainland control points, greatly increasing the efficiency of the process.
Many non-Chinese permanent residents of Hong Kong have deep connections to the region and have contributed significantly to its development. This group includes foreign professionals keen to take advantage of the opportunities presented by China's rapid development, particularly within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). This card will provide much-needed convenience for international talent involved with Hong Kong companies, enhancing their ability to travel northbound. The measure applies to all nationalities and industries, emphasising Hong Kong's unique position under "One Country, Two Systems" and supporting its international character and diversity. This is expected to attract companies and talent from around the world to settle in Hong Kong.
Under the new policy, non-Chinese Hong Kong permanent residents can apply for the card through China Travel Service (Hong Kong) Limited, authorised by the Mainland’s Exit and Entry Administration. The card will allow multiple trips to the Mainland over a five-year period, with each stay lasting up to 90 days, without the need for separate visas. The application, approval, and issuance of the card are managed by Mainland authorities. This arrangement complements the "northbound" multiple-entry visa initiative announced in the 2023 Policy Address by the Chief Executive, addressing the aspirations of various sectors in the Hong Kong community.
In alignment with the Mainland’s efforts to create a high-level talent hub, the HKSAR Government has maintained close communication with Mainland authorities to promote the "southbound and northbound" flow of talent. Since early 2023, several measures have been introduced to facilitate this movement, including the expansion of the GBA “southbound” exit endorsement for talent to Beijing and Shanghai, extending the duration of stay for business visits from seven days to 14 days, and introducing the "northbound" multiple-entry visa. These measures have significantly enhanced the two-way flow of talent.
The HKSAR Government will continue to leverage these measures, fulfilling its special role under "One Country, Two Systems", promoting Hong Kong's positive stories, and contributing to the development of the country.
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