Spotlight on APAC Series: Mainland China

In our spotlight on APAC series we round up the latest developments from across Asia Pacific.  In this post, we focus on the updates in travel rules for Mainland Chinese residents to Hong Kong SAR and Macau SAR.

Effective May 2024, there are some newly updated policies for Chinese residents to facilitate their travel plans. These changes in policies include:

Introduction of online applications for residents to replace/re-issue their immigration documents

Applicants are no longer required to physically visit a local public security office to request replacement/reissuance of their immigration documents.

The request can be made online where processing time is shortened to 7 business days.  This is an improvement from the  previous 10 business days timeframe.

Extension of Business Endorsement application options and stay period

Formerly, residents seeking to travel to Hong Kong and Macau would be required to attain their exit endorsement for business at their own local public security bureau.

Moving forward, they can now approach any public security bureau office in Mainland China to get the endorsement. In addition, the period of stay is extended to 14 days, where previously it was only 7 days.

Extension of period of stay for nationals applying for Business Endorsement under the ‘Multiple-entry talent’ Program

Earlier this year, the Chinese government officially announced that 9 mainland cities in Guangdong-Hong Kong SAR-Macau SAR Greater Bay area can apply for ‘Talent R’ Visa to enter Hong Kong and Macau.

This is part of the Multiple-entry talent endorsement program consisting of 6 categories including scientific research, health talent, legal talent.

Applicants can now say up to 30 days per stay under this program, an increase from the usual maximum seven days of stay.

These changes in policies are widely supported by the various cities’ local authorities as it helps to facilitate better exchange of business and talent and helps with the growth of the economy throughout 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].

Author