Foreign residents in Hong Kong can now apply for multi-entry visa to China

To boost tourism and business ties, Hong Kong authorities have announced an important relaxation in China visa rules for its non-permanent residents. Effective immediately, foreign passport holders residing in Hong Kong can apply for a multi-entry visa to mainland China, valid for five years.

Regardless of permanent or non-permanent status, this new policy allows visa holders to stay in mainland China for up to six months at a time, making it easier for travellers, businesspeople, and academics to visit and explore the region.

Hong Kong’s new visa policy explained

Earlier, non-permanent Hong Kong residents could only apply for visas that allowed access to mainland China for 2 years. The initiative seeks to draw more foreigners, including tourists and aspiring entrepreneurs, to Hong Kong, further solidifying its position as an international hub. As part of the update, applicants working for Hong Kong-registered companies will enjoy priority processing. The new visa policy does not apply to foreign domestic workers.

Further, as part of the Hong Kong visa update, applicants would not be required to furnish proof of round-trip tickets and hotel reservations for approval. Visitors who have already obtained visas from overseas authorities will not be required to get fingerprinted again when applying from Hong Kong. The update also includes tax concessions and support measures for maritime services and commodity traders.

Hong Kong, a special administrative region of the People’s Republic of China, is a popular destination in Asia, not only for tourism but also as a prominent business hub. Some of the most popular attractions in Hong Kong include Tian Tan Buddha, Hong Kong Disneyland, Ngong Ping 360, Nan Lian Garden, Avenue of Stars, Victoria Peak, Victoria Harbour, Lan Kwai Fong and Lantau Island.

(Featured image credit: Trey Ratcliff/Flickr)

This story first appeared here.