Mainland Chinese Business Visas for Hong Kong, Macau Extended to Two Weeks
In a move to boost economic activity and facilitate international exchange, China's immigration authorities have extended the business travel period for mainland residents visiting Hong Kong and Macao to 14 days per trip, effective from May 6. This change from the previous seven-day limit is part of a series of measures aimed at streamlining the immigration process and fostering growth in the Greater Bay Area. The National Immigration Administration (NIA) is set to ease the process for issuing passports and allow for online applications for replacements or reissuing of travel documents in 20 mainland cities.
The NIA is also introducing a talent exit endorsement for skilled individuals from Beijing and Shanghai, which allows multiple entries to Hong Kong with exit-entry permits valid for one to five years and a maximum stay of 30 days per visit. These endorsements are designed to encourage the flow of skilled talent between the mainland and these regions. Moreover, the policy changes are expected to benefit an estimated 100 million individual businesses and employees of 30,000 companies that have registered for multiple business visas.
The Hong Kong government has expressed support for these measures, anticipating they will enhance the city's integration into national development plans and boost the connection and exchange of talent. The updated regulations are projected to have positive effects on tourism, retail, hospitality, and dining sectors, contributing to the economic vitality of both Hong Kong and Macao.
