Spotlight on APAC Series: China

In our spotlight on APAC series, we round up the latest immigration changes from across Asia Pacific. In this post, we take a look at the inaugural five-year permit for non-Chinese permanent residents (PRs) of Hong Kong and Macau to enter Mainland China.

In line with the visa free schemes introduced across 15 countries for entry to China since December 2023, the Chinese government has implemented a new travel permit.

Permanent residents can apply for the new travel permit, and travel in China for up to 90 days per entry within a period of 5 years, starting from 10 July 2024. This permit also allows the holders to carry out investment, exchange, business, tourism activities or visit their family members or relatives.

Previously, non-Chinese PRs of Hong Kong and Macau were required to apply for the appropriate visa from the authorities prior to entry.  Moving forward, residents are to apply for the new travel permit from their respective countries’ China Travel Service departments.

In circumstances where the individual, permanent resident intends to work, study or engage in news coverage type of activities, they will be required to follow standard immigration processes and apply for the relevant visa as the new permit does not cover the  scope of  such activities.  This initiative is a first from the Chinese government as part of ongoing efforts to streamline travel or immigration processes and integrate better relations of Hong Kong and Macau with China.

Should you require any further information on these updates or for assistance in planning your global immigration needs, please contact [email protected] or [email protected].

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