Hong Kong Kickstarts Immigration Facilitation Scheme for Invited Persons

In our Spotlight on APAC series, we round up the latest developments across the region. In this post, we focus on the Hong Kong government’s launch of the Immigration Facilitation Scheme for Invited Persons.

Effective from 18 March 2025, the new scheme is designed to create ease of travel for invited persons from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries. It aims to attract individuals who can contribute to Hong Kong’s economic growth through a simplified, one-stop online application process for obtaining the relevant visa before traveling to the region.

The scheme not only streamlines the application process but also eases certain criteria and reduces documentation requirements. Invited persons can obtain an e-Visa (where applicable, depending on the purpose of their travel) and use self-service immigration clearance upon arrival.

Travellers from Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia, and Singapore, who can currently enter Hong Kong without a visa for up to 90 days on each visit, will still be able to do so.

Invited Persons will be contacted via email by the relevant Hong Kong government department or bureau. They simply need to reply to the email, provide the required information, and, in return, will receive a link to complete the online application. The processing time for the visa is approximately two weeks. Once approved, individuals can enter Hong Kong using their passport (valid for at least six months) and present their e-Card for self-service immigration clearance.

For more information or any assistance you may require on global immigration matters please do not hesitate to contact [email protected] or [email protected].

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