china travel visa hk

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• About the Visa Centre
• Office Hours & Location
• Legal Information
• Help by E-MAIL
• Suggestions and Complaints
• 2024/01/09 Notice on Exemption of Onine Appointment Requirement for China Visa Application
• 2023/12/28 FW:Notice of Continued Exemption of the Requirment of Fingerprints Collection
• 2023/10/25 Notice on Facilitation Arrangements of Visa Application for Foreign Staff of Companies Registered in Hong Kong
• 2023/06/01 List of Registered Agencies
• 2023/06/29 Notice on Compensation Arrangement For Long-Term Valid Chinese Visa With Multiple Entries Temporarily Suspended Due to C...
• 2023/05/08 Important Tips for online visa form filling

Notice on Update of the Adjustments for Chinese Visa Application

In order to further facilitate visa applications, according to Notice on Exemption of Online Appointment Requirement for China Visa Application ( posted on 6 December, 2023 by the Commissioner’s Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong S.A.R.), From December 11 , China Visa Application Service Center, Hong Kong (hereinafter referred to as “Our Center”) will implement the appointment-free visa application service. Applicants who have completed the online visa application form (which must be downloaded, printed and signed) can visit our Center anytime during office hours (Weekdays: 9:00-15:00) to submit the relevant application documents. The latest visa application processing arrangements are as follows: 1. All applicants are required to complete the online form before submitting their applications and please ensure that the personal information (name, gender, date of birth, passport number, nationality) is accurate in order to improve the efficiency of on-site processing . Applications will not be accepted without completing the online form. 2.  All applicants are required to queue up to collect the slot tickets and process the applications in order. According to the office hours of the Center, the deadline for submitting application is 15:00, and the deadline for collection is 17:00. Considering that there may be a high demand of applications at a certain time (e.g. from 12:00 to 14:00), it is recommended to arrange the time reasonably. If there is a need to apply for urgent service (service fee of 900 HKD, 2 working days for collection), please inform the staff at the check-in desk to obtain an urgent service ticket. The deadline for urgent application is 16:00 . Please note that the urgent service does not guarantee that you will receive your visa or passport within 2 working days. If the visa officer requires additional documents, the pick-up date will be delayed. Please arrange the time reasonably. 3. For a list of a pplication materials required for various types of visas, please refer to "Downloads" of our website. If the applicants is under the age of 18 and applying for a visa for the first time, please provide extra documents: (1)Photocopy of birth certificate (Chinese or English version); (2) Photocopy of applicant's parents' information page of passport when the applicant was born. 4. Consultation service will continue to be provided from 9:00-12:00 and 13:00-16:00 (except holidays), Tel: +852 29921999, E-mail: [email protected], from Monday to Friday (except holidays).

                                                      Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Hong Kong

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• How to Apply
• In Your Country
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• In Hong Kong
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• China Visa Fees
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• 10-year China Visa
• Tourist (L)
• Business (M)
• 24-Hour Visa-Free Transit
• 72-Hour Visa-Free Transit
• 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit
• Hong Kong Visa Policy
• Macau Visa Policy
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How to Apply a China Visa in Hong Kong

Which types of visa can i get in hong kong.

The  tourist visa (L) ,  business visa (M) ,  work visa (Z) ,  student visa (X)  and many other types of China visa can be applied in Hong Kong.  

Where to apply for China visa in Hong Kong?

Documents needed for china visa application in hong kong.

1. A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity and photocopy of your personal particulars page. 2. If you are a Hong Kong resident, provide your Hong Kong ID card; if not, you need to have a copy of the Hong Kong entry stamp on your passport or a visa of Hong Kong. 3. A visa application form. Applicants need to complete the application form on the  website of China Visa Application Service Center , get a printout of it and sign it. 4. A passport size photo.  5. Documents showing your travel purpose, such as a travel itinerary, round-trip transportation arrangements, and hotel reservations. Note that if you are traveling to Guangdong Province, the transportation proof is usually not required.  

Apply for a China visa from Hong Kong in 6 steps

1. Prepare all necessary documents as listed above. 2. Submit the application to the visa office at the appointed time. Mailed applications are not accepted unless you are now residing in Taiwan. 3. Have your fingerprints collected by the visa center if you are applying for a China visa for the first time. Applicants aged under 14 or over 70 don’t need to do fingerprinting. 4. Wait for your visa to be processed. 5. Pay the fee and collect your visa at the date shown on the pick-up slip.  

China Visa Fee in Hong Kong (Unit: HKD)

For most countries:

How long does it take for processing my visa?

Better apply for china visa in home country than in hong kong.

Though it’s feasible to apply for a China visa in Hong Kong, we advise you to make the application in your country if you just visit Hong Kong temporarily. The reason is that a Hong Kong ID card is often required for the application. Temporary visitors may face more difficulties in making the application in person. By the way, if you live in mainland China and wish to renew your visa in Hong Kong, you can try your luck but the result is not assured.

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PLANNING A TRIP TO CHINA? Start Here

How to Get a Chinese Visa in Hong Kong in 2024 | Complete Guide

February 3, 2024 By Josh Summers 102 Comments

Is it possible to apply for a Chinese visa in Hong Kong? Normally, you’re expected to apply in your home country, but that’s not always convenient, especially if you’re already traveling abroad or living in China.

Here’s what you need to know in order to enter Hong Kong, apply for a China visa or renew your current visa.

Despite many changes in China’s visa policies, Hong Kong still remains one of the best places to obtain a visa or do a “visa run” for China outside of your home country. The best part is, it’s a great place to explore while you’re here!

Throughout my 10 years of living and traveling all around China, Hong Kong remains one of my favorite destinations. Getting a visa in Hong Kong is an excellent excuse to explore the region for a few days. I highly recommend it.

Before we go any further, I want to share that I’ve done my best to make sure that all information is up-to-date as of 2024. However, I’m well aware that anybody claiming to fully understand Chinese regulations is just fooling themselves. Please make sure you do your research before attempting to apply for a Chinese visa in Hong Kong.

Below are the most commonly asked questions regarding obtaining a Chinese visa in Hong Kong:

• Do I need a visa to enter Hong Kong?
• Is it still possible to obtain a Chinese visa in Hong Kong?
• Can I reset my Chinese tourist visa in Hong Kong?
• Should I get my China visa in Hong Kong or home country?

Do I Need a Visa to Enter Hong Kong?

If you are Canadian, Australian, American or European and plan to vacation in Hong Kong or visit for business, you do not need a visa. Citizens from the above countries are able to stay in Hong Kong for up to 90 days (if you are British your stay is extended to 180 days).

Upon arrival at the airport, custom officials will put a “Visa Exemption” ticket in your passport which states how long you can remain in Hong Kong without obtaining a proper visa. I recommend you check out some of the best travel guides for Hong Kong if you’ll be staying here for any extended amount of time.

There’s a lot to see in Hong Kong so take advantage of it while you’re getting the Chinese visa!

Can I Get a Chinese Visa in Hong Kong?

If you’ve been doing any amount of research on this subject, you know that there’s quite a bit of confusion around how/if you can get a Chinese visa in Hong Kong. Let me see if I can simplify the process for you.

The short answer to the question is yes, it is possible to apply for a China visa while you’re in Hong Kong . This is true of tourist visas (L), business visas (Z or M) and even student visas (X).

There are two primary methods for application in Hong Kong: applying in person at the China Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) or going through a Hong Kong visa agent . As you can imagine, an agent is more convenient but costs money. Going to the CVASC yourself takes a bit more effort but is cheaper.

Either way you go, there are a few things you need consider for application:

• You Must be Present in Hong Kong : This seems obvious, since application requires your physical passport, but I get people who ask me if they can apply in advance and then pick it up in Hong Kong. You can’t.
• You Need the Appropriate Paperwork : Most of the time, this just means your passport, passport photo (there are specific photo requirements ), and completed visa application form, but if you have a minor with you (under 18), they’ll also need a birth certificate and copies of the parents’ passport. In addition to this, everybody who applies in Hong Kong will need to provide a printed itinerary, printed proof of transportation in/out of China and printed proof of your hotels. For those travelers who don’t plan that far in advance, there are common workarounds to these itinerary requirements for a China visa .
• You Need Enough Time : In most cases, you can receive your visa in 4 working days, which includes the day you drop off and pick up the passport. It is possible to pay for expedited service, which would lower that to 2-3 working days. You will need to remain in Hong Kong during this entire time.

Now that we’ve established what you need, let’s look at the two most common ways to apply for a China visa in Hong Kong.

1. Applying for a Chinese Visa via CVASC (Hong Kong)

The cheapest way to apply for a Chinese Visa in Hong Kong is to personally visit the CVASC. I recommend getting there when they open at 9am to avoid the lines that inevitably form. This map will give you a general idea of where the office is located, or you can click to see the Google Map.

• Address: 20F Capital Centre, 151 Gloucester Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong (20th floor, if that wasn’t clear)
• Open Hours: 9am – 4pm, Monday through Friday
• Appointment Scheduling: While walk-ins are accepted, it’s better to make an appointment .
• Contact: (852) 29921999 or [email protected]
• Visit the official CVASC Hong Kong Website for more info.

The process here is pretty straight-forward. Before you arrive at 9am, you’ll want to make sure that you have all your paperwork in order. Print out all the transportation and hotel confirmations that you have as well as an itinerary that shows exactly how you’ll be entering and exiting China.

If this travel information isn’t set in stone, that’s ok. You’ll need to build the itinerary for the sake of the China visa application, but in the end, once you enter China, you have the freedom to change your plans however you want.

There are photocopy machines at the CVASC (for a fee), but it’s best to bring your own photocopies of your passport, your Hong Kong permit, and all your transportation bookings. If I were you, I would make at least two copies to take with you. This will speed up the process when you arrive at the office.

The office is well-organized and you’ll be asked to check-in when you arrive. Once your number is called, you’ll go up for your “interview” and hopefully be done within an hour. When you’re finished, they’ll give you a date to come collect your passport from that same office (there’s a window specifically for pick-ups).

That’s it! The only complicated part will be taking the time to find the office and then making sure you have all the right paperwork. If that seems daunting to you or if your time is limited, you might want to consider a visa agency.

2. Using a Visa Agency to Get a China Visa in Hong Kong

The benefit of using an agency is the elimination of hassle (paperwork) and time. It’s not absolutely necessary, but they do exist as a service for travelers.

There are a number of agencies located in Hong Kong including China Travel Services (CTS) which is conveniently located at the Hong Kong airport and will help walk you through the process.

For those staying in Kowloon, I recommend visiting Forever Bright . For those across the bay in Wanchai, you can look up YZ Travel for help with your visa.

All of these agencies are pretty much the same. They’re all going to charge an additional fee and they’re all going to offer quick service (some advertise same day…which I’m skeptical about). I recommend choosing the office that’s nearest to the Hong Kong hotel where you’ll be staying.

Note for Those on a Diplomatic Passport

There’s old information on the internet that says you can apply for your Chinese visa at the Consular Department Office. This is no longer true. As of 2018, the only foreigners who can apply at the Consular Department are those with a diplomatic passport.

If this applies to you, you will need to visit the Consular Department Office which is located at the following address:

7th Floor, Lower Block, China Resources Building 26 Harbour Road Wanchai, Hong Kong Island

I’m hesitant to put this information here because I know it could cause confusion. So let me state this again: do not go to the Consular Department unless you have a diplomatic visa . Otherwise, use an agency or head to the CVASC.

Can I Reset my China Visa in Hong Kong?

Yes, you can. A visit to Hong Kong, Taiwan, or Macau – although they’re  technically part of China – is still considered as “leaving the country” and will allow you to reset your multi-entry China tourist visa.

This is especially helpful as you’re traveling through the southern part of China as Hong Kong is both easily accessible and usually quite cheap. There are buses, train and of course airports that connect Hong Kong with mainland China.

Once you enter Hong Kong, any entry back into China – assuming you have a multi-entry visa – will reset you to the length of time that your visa allows. That could be 30 days, 60 days or even 90 days depending on what you were given.

Should I Obtain a Chinese Visa in Hong Kong or in my Home Country?

One advantage of obtaining a Chinese Visa in Hong Kong rather than your home country is the potential savings. Many countries, especially Western countries such as Canada, charge extremely high fees for Chinese Visas.

While in Hong Kong you would also be applying in person so the service fees may be less. It’s also possible that certain visa agencies in Hong Kong will help you out with itineraries or won’t even require that you have hotel bookings or exit flights in place.

While Hong Kong is pretty liberal when it comes to handing out visas, there is no guarantee you will get one. Seeing as the regular delivery is four working days you will have to continue paying to stay in a hotel until your visa arrives. There is the option to use the express or rush delivery but these also come with a cost so, either way, it can get expensive.

Something else to keep in mind is that the Visa Office is closed on weekends and holidays so if you arrive on a Saturday you will have to wait until Monday to apply.

Where you apply for your Chinese Visa is really up to and your circumstances. If you are planner and like to have everything in place before you leave for vacation, applying for a China visa at home may be the better option. If you are a spontaneous traveler who likes to take your trips day by day, applying in Hong Kong may better suit your needs.

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About Josh Summers

Josh is the founder of TravelChinaCheaper.com who has been living in China with his family since 2006. Over that period of time he has traveled by plane, train, car, motorcycle and even camel to explore almost every corner of the country.

Reader Interactions

February 27, 2018 at 1:23 am

hello can ı get the vısa ın hong kong ımmedıately or should ı stay there 2-3 days?

February 28, 2018 at 3:30 am

It’s usually best to budget a couple days for the process, unless you’re willing to pay extra to have everything expedited.

February 28, 2018 at 1:41 pm

I M booked to visit hong kong. Flights and hotel booked and paid for. I arrive in hk on 23rd march and depart for the uk on 5 april. Because i am currently visit Ing france, i did not have time to sort out a visa, before i left. I need my uk passport to visit and depart from france. I am booking in to my hk hotel and will stay there 7 days , before moving to shenzhen to see a friend

March 7, 2018 at 9:25 pm

I am American and currently living in China on a student visa, but will be switching to a tourist visa. Am I able to apply for the 10 year multiple entry tourist visa in Hong Kong? or is a trip to thailand a better option?

March 8, 2018 at 12:01 am

You can do it from both places, although from personal experience Thailand can be a somewhat cheaper option (minus the transportation costs). 🙂

March 8, 2018 at 12:05 am

Thanks, I just was not finding any examples online of people getting the 10 year visa!

August 17, 2018 at 7:33 am

Dear Sabrina

Here are the sample of 10 years multiple entry for usa citizen applying in china embassy at kuala lumpur, malaysia. visit this link: http://www.tripvisa.my/sample-of-china-visa-10-years-multiple-entry-for-us-passport/

March 8, 2018 at 12:30 am

Hi got to china in october with a double entry visa, I did not have to leave as immogration was kind enough to renovate it in mainland in december however i must go to hong kong to get a new one by the end of march. I am venezuelan citizen, what are the odds I get it with the express service? Thanks in advance!

March 8, 2018 at 2:16 am

Hmm…I don’t really like speculating on odds. If I were you, I would contact either the Venezuelan embassy in Hong Kong or the Chinese embassy in Hong Kong to ask details about express service.

March 8, 2018 at 9:02 pm

Im a liberian, currently In china on a single entry business visa. Is it possible to obtain a student visa in Hong kong? If yes, then how long will it take?

March 12, 2018 at 8:51 am

It should be possible to change over to a student visa while you’re in China. You’ll need the school where you’ll be studying to prepare all the paperwork, I think it’s form JW201.

March 20, 2018 at 2:16 am

hi. i am currently in china on a tourist visa on my south african passport. i would however like to find out if i would be able to travel to hong kong to get a tourist visa till july on my british passport as i have a british passport and was only able to get a month visa in south africa on my south african passport. thanks.

March 20, 2018 at 6:46 am

Is it possible to get a visa in the weekends, are the visastores open in the weekends.

March 21, 2018 at 6:34 am

is it possible to get a Chinese visa with same-day service at the chinese travel service in HKG? if not, what’s the shortest turnaround i can expect for expedited service?

April 6, 2018 at 12:47 am

poss to change a Bus visa to a student x visa in Hong Kong now?

April 10, 2018 at 8:47 am

Hi, I have and S2 visa in China, can I apply for the same kind of visa since Hong Kong?

April 11, 2018 at 10:58 am

Hi, I’m a Brit and currently have a z visa as I work in China. Can I apply for my new Z visa in Hong Kong or does it have to be from my home country?

April 11, 2018 at 11:25 am

Hi Luke, you should be able to apply for the visa from Hong Kong, but I would check with the Chinese embassy website to make 100% certain.

April 17, 2018 at 1:53 pm

I am arriving into Hong Kong on a Thursday at 6pm. Is there any way to get a M visa for Friday or Saturday pickup? How much would that be? Where is the best place to get it done? Also, I have a Canadian passport.

April 17, 2018 at 9:09 pm

Hi Toni, I don’t believe it’s possible to order a visa for pickup when you arrive. It might be possible to expedite a 24 hour turnaround for a visa application, though. In both cases, I suggest you connect with the Chinese embassy in Hong Kong to determine what is possible.

April 25, 2018 at 10:09 pm

Hi I am a south african in china on an x2 visa it is expiring now can I go to hong kong to get a tourist visa?

May 17, 2018 at 7:17 pm

I can’t be 100% sure. The best thing you can do is contact your embassy in China and the Chinese embassy in Hong Kong to get more details for your specific situation.

November 27, 2018 at 10:35 am

did you get this all sorted in HONG KONG?

April 26, 2018 at 4:56 am

Hi there, I’ve heard that things have been getting stricter, especially if I already have a few tourist visas on my passport. SHould I expect to get rejected if I apply again?

No, I wouldn’t say that. You should definitely look to get a 10-year tourist visa so you don’t have to go through this again, though.

June 22, 2019 at 12:55 pm

Hello josh.

My name is houssen. From the comoros islands. Now I’m in China On student visa. My visa will expire on 31st July.

I will get an INVITATION letter for a z visa soon and was wondering if i can get it done in hong Kong or i must go back to my country for that.

Many thanks

May 12, 2018 at 2:31 am

Do you need a residency permit if you are on a x2 visa?

May 17, 2018 at 7:01 pm

No matter what visa you get, you will always need to apply for a residency permit in order to stay long-term in China.

May 18, 2018 at 8:57 pm

I have vietnam passport and green card 10 years. I want to go CHONGCHING to visit my FRIENDs and i also want to go to hongkong, so should i APPY both visa for china and HONGKONG Or i just need visa from china for both place? How can i do it? I live in ILLInois, us (chicago) Thanks

June 13, 2019 at 1:54 am

No you dont. You just need to reGister where you liVe at the poLice station aRound not at the immigration Office

May 30, 2018 at 6:42 am

Thanks for your guide, Josh! I was just in Hong Kong and got my own Chinese Visa and it served as a good starting point. A lot of things have changed recently though: it’s no longer necessary to use a Visa Agency at all! I wrote a detailed “How To” for the new process on my blog: https://www.manuelsalmann.com/blog/how-to-get-a-tourist-visa-for-china-in-hong-kong

Best, Manuel

June 21, 2018 at 1:22 am

I am INDONESIAN citizen and planning to VISIT My friend in china from hongkong, beside proper document, what kind invitation that my need to prepare?

June 21, 2018 at 8:48 am

You shouldn’t need an invitation. Indonesian passport holders are allowed 30 days free entry into Hong Kong without a visa. If you want to stay longer than that (or if you want to work or study while there), you’ll need to apply for a proper visa.

July 4, 2018 at 2:46 pm

Thank you for your article! Very helpful to me！ But I still have some questions to ask. I was admitted to a Chinese university for Bachelor, I am waiting for them to send me a letter of acceptance and jw202 in my country Romania to me, But I want to go to China early, just this month. So I apply for a tourist visa first.Then wait for the pre-school（when I have received the admission notice and jw202.）Go to Hong Kong for visa X1. Can it be like this?

July 4, 2018 at 8:04 pm

I’m hesitant to answer your question because I can’t be 100% sure. The best thing you can do is connect with the Chinese consulate in Romania and ask them.

July 5, 2018 at 2:19 am

I am currently travelling in Taiwan with a tourist visa. I was accepted as an exchange student to a Chinese university (this is my 2 time) which starts in September. I thought I would be able to apply for a student visa from Taiwan but apparently, that is impossible.

I already spent an exchange semester in China last year (5 months) and now went for a month tourist trip there (mid-May – mid-June). After that trip, I travelled to Taiwan. So, I have been to China and never overstayed my visa and I have all the papers and everything in order for the student visa. The student visa a short-term visa (under 180 days) and I have a flight booked out of China. My overall stay in mainland China is 160 days.

am i able to apply for the student visa from hong kong?

July 5, 2018 at 12:26 pm

You should be able to, Elina…but I highly recommend you contact the Chinese embassy in Hong Kong to be sure.

July 12, 2018 at 7:45 am

Hi I plan to fly to shanghai. When i arrive i would like To take directly a flight to hong kong for 3 days but with an other AIRLINE. After that i will go back to shanghai for a week.

Do i NEEd a chinese double entry visa or could i use the first time the 72 hours visa on ARRIVAL?

July 12, 2018 at 8:30 pm

Hmm…interesting question that I don’t know the answer to. You’ll need to contact the Chinese embassy for that one!

July 24, 2018 at 8:13 am

Is it possible to get a 90 day multiple entry M business visa in hong kong I have already have a tourist visa and an business visa and I have a 90 day extension on my business visa

I have already booked all flights and accommodation.

July 24, 2018 at 8:28 am

Hey Jason, if it’s possible, the consulate in Hong Kong should be able to do it. I will warn you, though, that technically you’re not supposed to have multiple active China visas. Don’t be surprised if they cancel the tourist and business visa in order to issue you a new M visa.

July 24, 2018 at 10:00 am

Hi Josh, I am currently in HK working and have a visa, been here over 7yrs so also applied for my HK PR, over 6 weeks ago but not been approved yet, I will now transfer with my company to shanghai, they originally said I will apply for a z visa, takes about 2 months then go to sh and get work permit / resident permit after a week or so, they are now saying better and quicker to apply l visa tourist, then they will apply for z visa an work permit, but I must stay in sh during this process which takes 1 month, and I will be unpaid as cannot pay until have a work permit, this is very strange ? could I also be there for even more than 1 month waiting, tks Stefano, I hv a uk passport btw

July 24, 2018 at 2:30 pm

Hi Stefano, while it’s not ideal, it is common for companies to have their workers come in on a tourist visa and then switch to a work visa. What I would be careful about it actually doing work. It’s illegal to work on a tourist visa, so if they’re going to ask you to come to Shanghai on a tourist visa and not pay you until you get a work visa, then you shouldn’t work at all during that time. Just my two cents.

July 30, 2018 at 5:20 am

Hi Josh, I’m living in HK and have an HK ID Card. I’m working on applying for a 10-year visa (US Citizen) and am hoping you can help. Our first trip over to China will be a quick 2-night stay in SHENZHEN and we’d be taking the MTR to cross the boarder, which you can’t purchase tickets for. Do you know if the consulate here in HK considers round-trip ferry tickets as a valid form of confirmation that we will be leaving the country on a specific date rather than a round-trip flight? Because we want to make more future trips over to China I don’t want to apply for the 5-day, SHENZHEN visa that’s available. Thanks for any insight you can provide.

July 31, 2018 at 1:13 pm

Hey Dana, I wish I could give you a definitive answer but I’m not 100% sure. You’re going to need to connect with the consulate in Hong Kong to be certain about what’s possible.

August 2, 2018 at 1:43 pm

i am an american (currently in the us) who for scheduling reasons is looking to apply for an x1 visa in hong kong. I have all my paperwork in order, do you think i will be able to do it? thanks so much for your advice and for keeping up with this thread.

August 3, 2018 at 1:05 pm

It should be possible, Matthew, but I recommend reaching out to your Chinese consulate in the US to be sure.

August 16, 2018 at 5:37 am

I am currently living in China was teaching but have reached the age where i can no longer get a z visa. my boss wants to get me a 30 day l visa my concern is will i then be able to get the 10 year l visa for americans in hong kong ? or should i go to hong kong and get the 10 year visa before my z visa expires?

August 16, 2018 at 8:31 am

Hi James, I think your bigger concern should be whether you should continue working for a boss that wants you to work on an L visa. That’s a huge risk that has landed some expats in jail in the past.

August 16, 2018 at 6:13 pm

Josh, i do not plan on working and my boss would not ask me to. i have lived in china for 18 years 15 in suzhou and even get my ss benefits direct deposited to boc. i retired from teaching june 30th. i have made my home here and just wish to remain.

August 16, 2018 at 6:27 pm

So my original question was should i get a 30 day tourist visa here in China and the go to Hong Kong and try and get the 10 year visa or skip getting the 30 day visa and go directly to Hong Kong and apply for the 10 year visa or go to America and apply there for

I worry if I get a 30 day visa in China that if I go to Hong Kong I wont be able to get an extension.

August 16, 2018 at 10:37 pm

I could really use your advice!!!

August 19, 2018 at 9:17 pm

Hello i want to know that i have italian 5 years residency, i come to china on my pakistani passport which have china “M” visa i have my all documents of italia so im allowed to hong kong or not

August 20, 2018 at 1:35 pm

When traveling abroad, your residency doesn’t matter – only your passport does. You’ll have to check the visa requirements for Pakistani passport holders entering Hong Kong. I recommend connecting with a Chinese embassy or searching online.

August 20, 2018 at 9:26 am

Hi there! Is it possible to enter hongkong as tourist and apply there for china z visa? We’re having difficult nowadays in getting travel exit permit so this is another alternative i’m thinking about. I’ll be working in chinA and i need to get z visa from another country.

August 20, 2018 at 1:38 pm

It’s possible, I think, but I recommend you communicate both with your local Public Security Bureau and with the Chinese consulate. In some cases, the PSB requires you to return to your home country to change visas, but not always.

August 20, 2018 at 10:08 am

Hi, I will appreciate very much your advice in my situation. I am a Canadian with L visa, currently in China, staying with my Chinese girlfriend. I have recently found a school that is willing to hire me as an English teacher and signed with me a contract for a 1-year work. The school has obtained for me a “Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work permit in the People’s Republic of China”, and now, I have to apply for a Z visa. All of the mentioned documents are in English and Chinese as well and all of the supporting documents are authenticated by the Chinese embassy. I am already here, in mainland China and it is more cost-effective to apply for a visa here than returning to my home country for the application process. My questions are: 1. Can I apply for a Z Visa as a Canadian citizen in Hong Kong? 2. If yes, what kind of documents I have to bring with me to the embassy (Do I need to bring with me all the authenticated documents that resulted into obtaining the Notification Letter of Work permit from the school, such as – diploma, TEFL, medical, criminal background check and etc.)? 3. Does the contract with the school act as an Invitation Letter or I have to ask them for an Invitation Letter as well (I have the Work permit notification and the contract with me, but I don’t have an invitation letter separately as a document)? I will appreciate any feedback from people who have been already through this path with the Chinese embassy in hong knog after the change of the rules in 2017.

August 20, 2018 at 2:32 pm

Here are my responses:

• You should be able to apply for the Z visa in Hong Kong, but I would double check both with your local Public Security Bureau as well as the Chinese consulate in Canada. In some cases (particularly where you’re changing from one kind of visa to another), the PSB has been known to require foreigners to exit to their home country to apply for the visa. This isn’t common, however.
• Whenever people ask me what they need to bring, I always answer “Everything…and the kitchen sink”. It’s true. I usually arrive not only with originals of everything I think they might need, but also with photocopies.
• The notification letter should work in this case

I hope that helps. Enjoy your time in China!

August 22, 2018 at 10:57 am

i am a filipino and i plan to travel to hong kong as tourist since we have 14 days no visa entry in the country. Our main goal is to apply for china z visa and travel to china. We can do it here in the our country but we will face a lot of problem to philippine immigration since we are hired via direct hire process and our government want us to hire a RECRUITMENT agency and we dont want to got that route.. do you think we can get a z visa in hongkong.

August 22, 2018 at 1:18 pm

Hi Ed, there are a lot of factors involved, including the need for proper paperwork from your employer. Call the Chinese embassy in Hong Kong and ask make sure you have all the paperwork needed, otherwise it will be a wasted trip.

September 7, 2018 at 3:49 am

prices of visas are a little on the conservative sideman, fbt are gone through the roof

September 7, 2018 at 9:18 am

Thanks for the heads up, Darren! I’ll update soon.

September 10, 2018 at 8:51 pm

Hello. My name is Andrew. Ukrainian. Now I’m in China as tourist visa 2/30. My visa expire on 23th September. I already exstanded my visa for 7 day. 17th I’ll try to extend one more.

Can I make a new visa after this in hk? 

September 11, 2018 at 12:34 am

I’m janeth ,I’m Filipino I am.planning TO visit China but first will be hk It is possible to get a Chinese visa while I’m.in hk

October 10, 2018 at 4:46 am

hi janeth. i am planning also to go to china through hong kong. is it ok with you, can we talk?

September 17, 2018 at 5:22 pm

Hi – I am planning on traveling with my friend to hong kong to apply for tourist visas for china. I am a US Citizen and he is a citizen of Belize. Is my understanding correct that I can apply for the 10 year multi-entry visa in Hong Kong, but he can not apply for his 1 year multi-entry visa in Hong Kong? Thank you for any information you may have.

September 17, 2018 at 9:32 pm

Hey Kenneth, it’s true that you can apply for your 10-yr visa in Hong Kong as a US citizen. Unfortunately, I am not too familiar with the bilateral agreements between China and Belize. Your friend will need to call up the Chinese embassy in Belize to find out for sure.

September 24, 2018 at 11:07 pm

My boss is a korean, he is living in my country – vietnam. Now he wants to go to shenzhen, but someone told him that china visa is getting hard to make nowaday. so he gave me an idea that he will travel to hongkong and use ferry boat at hongkong airport to shenzhen. and my boss said they can grant china visa on ferry boat. i don’t know it’s true or not, so if you know please help me. thanks in advance.

September 25, 2018 at 9:34 am

I don’t know. My guess is that you’ll still need a visa to get on the ferry boat.

September 27, 2018 at 10:41 am

Hi – I am American. Can I apply for an M-visa at China Travel Services (CTS) at Honk kong Airport? Or do I have to go to the consular department office?

September 27, 2018 at 4:06 pm

No, you can’t get a visa at the airport. You’ll have to visit the consular within the city.

October 15, 2018 at 12:32 am

hey, was wondering if I could get any advice on this issue.

While I’ve applied for a multiple entry business visa in the past, my main worry is that I’ve been living here in China for the past two years with a multiple entry business visa. Thus, I’m wondering if the people handling my visa application might develop any suspicions on the basis of all of my entry and exit stamps over that same period..

October 15, 2018 at 11:24 am

That’s possible – I have no idea. You’ll just have to talk with the Chinese consulate and hope for the best.

November 14, 2018 at 5:14 pm

Im going to Hong kong in two weeks time , can i get a visa to go to china for a day visit from here. I live in norway

November 14, 2018 at 8:55 pm

Hey David, you’re better off getting a China visa in Norway before you leave. But hurry, you don’t have much time!

November 15, 2018 at 10:25 pm

Hi can i get a chinese viSa in hoNg kong even though Its my first Time visiting?

November 17, 2018 at 7:40 am

Yes, you can.

November 17, 2018 at 10:26 am

I am an italian citizen living in the uk and want to travel china for 3 months on a tourist visa. Will my chances of gEtting a visa for 3 months be better in hong kong than the uk

November 18, 2018 at 10:08 pm

I don’t think you’ll have better chances either way. Do what is most convenient for your particular situation.

December 6, 2018 at 4:52 am

Hi, i’m from philippines and currently working in hong kong as d.h.. my employer wanted me to go with them in china for 2 days, do i need to apply china visa?

December 6, 2018 at 2:28 pm

You need to check with the Chinese consulate in the Philippines, but I believe that yes, you do need to apply for a China visa.

January 4, 2019 at 9:28 am

Hi, we’re going to Hong Kong in about a week and a half to get a tourist visa for my friend who has a south African passport and was wondering if you need a flight stating that you will leave China. Is there a way to bypass the flight itinerary or is it still necessary

January 4, 2019 at 4:21 pm

You’ll want to read this article I wrote about getting a Chinese visa without flight tickets or hotel reservations . I think that might help.

January 24, 2019 at 10:42 am

Hi Josh, The address you stated above (consular department office) no longer accept visa application from ordinary passport holder. They now require people to submit application through a place called china visa application centre. they are charging HKD $310 + HKD $240 (extra) fee for a single entry visa. such a great way for them to make more money for what is essentially the same service. i wonder if the consular still accept application if you show up at their office. Their website is very misleading, with schedule of fees still listed there despite no longer providing service.

January 24, 2019 at 2:31 pm

Very interesting. Thanks for sharing…I’ll need to do some research and make some updates.

February 15, 2019 at 11:01 pm

Hello, I have a working visa in my passport that expires pretty soon. Can I go to Hong Kong in order to get a business visa?

April 3, 2019 at 10:12 pm

I’ve contacted a couple of agencies in HK about getting a China VISa and I’m being quoted 1100 HKD for the 4 day service and 2400 for the rush. I’m a uk citizen and these prices seem way higher than suggested here. Are you able to recommend a good agency?

Thanks, Charlie

April 18, 2019 at 3:25 am

Yep total rip off, the best I found so far is 640 or 830 with these guys, same day

http://www.fbt-chinavisa.com.hk/

July 29, 2019 at 11:41 pm

Just a few tips from my visit this morning: 1. Go online and make an appointment because you will then be able to get in the priority line. I made a 9 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. appointment and the place was packed when I arrived 8:30 however once the agents started service I was in and out in less than 1 hour. 2. Printing/copying is 2 HKD per page however you need an Optimus card to print. I was told i needed some additional information, so I had to go and print. I didn’t have an optimus card so the security guard suggested i ask someone to borrow their card. A gentleman volunteered to help me and let me print using HIS card and He refused to let me pay him. Your best bet is to print before you get there. But, be Prepared in case you have to print or make copies unexpectedly. 3. Passport photos as mentioned must have white background no earrings no JEWELLERY whatsoever they even want you to take out any nose rings Or any piercings that are visible. if you can’t then you have to indicate what you can’t remove in the other information section on the Visa application. 4. Visa fees cash only no exceptions there is an across the street. You have to use an overpass to get across the STreet and the atm/bank is visible as you get to the end of the overpass. 5. There is a passport photo booth at the centre. As mentioned, It costs 50 Hkd for 6 photos. if you don’t have the exact amount then the cashier will give you change. 6. If you recently ended a job in China and intending to go back on a tourist visa then you need the letter showing that your contract ended with that employer. 7. I’m from the USA and I was requesting a 30 day visa but the agent automatically put in the application for a 10 year visa. 8. The visa office opens at about 8 a.m. so you can get there early if you need to do any printing or you need to fill out an application at the center. The agents begin seeing customers at 9 a.m. Sharp.

July 30, 2019 at 1:51 pm

These are great, Cora…thanks!

August 1, 2019 at 5:36 am

HEllo i get my chineese work visa on the 24 of august. I was wondering if it is allowed for me to travel first to hong kong and then to go to china and enter on my work VIsa. I am FROM iceland. Best REGRADS Inga

August 2, 2019 at 8:19 am

If you have a valid China visa, you can enter from any port where travelers are permitted to pass.

August 18, 2019 at 4:04 am

Hi I eNded a job in July and want to come back on a Tourist visa until I FINd work again. I have a Uk passport and previousLy had a z visa(although 3 x 3 month residence then a I month humanitarian Visa). How easy is it to get a Tourist visa in HK and how long how many entries will they give?

August 18, 2019 at 10:27 pm

It’s not terribly difficult, but you’ll need to budget some time to get it done. Of course, with everything happening in Hong Kong right now, it might be even harder. Who knows.

September 25, 2019 at 5:59 am

Hi In case of visa rejection after submitting application how fast I will be notified about rejection?

September 25, 2019 at 9:44 pm

It’s usually within two business days.

February 26, 2020 at 10:46 pm

Hi Josh. i am planning on travelling to China from Hawaii having previously been to south America. As I will be more than 3 months outside of UK I will need to apply for 10 year tourist visa either in South America , Hawaii or if this is not possible HK. Do you know if it possible? Thanks

February 27, 2020 at 12:37 am

You should be able to apply for the visa in any China consulate, no matter the country.

June 22, 2020 at 9:04 pm

is there a way to enter mainland china from hk for foreign passport holder? what type of visa will they need?

June 24, 2020 at 12:48 am

Right now? No. No foreigners may enter China from any port.

May 22, 2021 at 12:10 am

My husband and I are moving to China from Kosovo. We need to get Z visas. What would be the quickest, easiest way to get this done? We have the vaccine requirement. We are unsure whether we should go to Serbia for the visa or go to Hong Kong and hope to get a visa there. If we go to Serbia, do we need to have flight reservations or will an invitation letter meet the requirements?

May 24, 2021 at 9:09 pm

At this point, with all the new Covid rules, I wouldn’t go to Hong Kong and hope for a visa. You need to get it in either Kosovo or Serbia.

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• Important Notice on Opening of Chinese Visa Application Service Center    (2018-01-05)

How to Get a Chinese Visa in Hong Kong

Best bet is a visa agency, but you'll need lots of documentation

Tom Bonaventure / Getty Images

Citizens of the U.S., U.K., Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Canada, and the European Union can enter Hong Kong without a visa. All you need is your passport. (When you enter Hong Kong you will get a stamp or sticker saying you can enter without a visa. Save this because you will need it to get a Chinese visa.) If you know well in advance that you want to go to China in combination with your trip to Hong Kong, you can get a visa to enter China at a Chinese embassy in your home country well in advance. But if you are the spontaneous type and decide you want to make a visit to China while you are in Hong Kong or the Chinese embassy in your home country is difficult for you to visit, you can get a visa to enter China in Hong Kong. 

Transit Visas

An easy way to avoid getting a visa to enter China is to do so while in transit to a third country, with China being a stop that lasts just a short time.

You can spend up to 72 hours in China without a visa if you are in transit from one country to another with a stop at a major Chinese airport. You must have documentation of your plane, train, or ship tickets for the continuation of your journey that are for dates within the 72-hour time frame. If you are transiting through the Shanghai-Jiangsu-Zhejiang region or the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, you can stay up to 144 hours without a visa and move around among the three cities in that region during that time. As with the 72-hour free transit visa, you must have transportation tickets that show that you will leave China within the 144-hour time frame.

Where to Get a Visa in Hong Kong

The best and easiest way to get a Chinese visa in Hong Kong is via a visa agency. You'll find many visa agencies in Hong Kong, but the most recommended are the ​ China Travel Service  (CTS) and  Forever Bright . ​​​​​​

Documents You'll Need

To get a Chinese tourist visa in Hong Kong, you'll need several documents. If you don't have all of these documents, you will have great difficulty getting a visa. 

• A travel itinerary that includes your round trip tickets to and from China
• Arrival and departure dates and places you plan to visit
• Photocopies of all of your hotel bookings for the duration of your stay in China
• A photocopy of first main pages of your passport, which include your photo and information
• A passport photo
• A photocopy of the arrival stamp or sticker that you received upon entering Hong Kong
• A visa application form (this can be found and filled out at the visa agency)

Cost of a Chinese Visa in Hong Kong 

The price of a Chinese visa in Hong Kong is dependent on both your nationality and how soon you need the visa. It usually takes about four working days to get a visa, and if you need it sooner, you'll have to pay extra. Prices change for visas regularly so you should contact the agency you plan to use in advance to be sure of the current cost.

Standard Prices for Chinese Visa in Hong Kong Dollars

These prices are via the China Visa General Agency , as of April 2019 :

• Single Entry Visa: HK$760 ($96.89)
• Double Entry Visa: HK$970 ($123.66)
• Multiple Entry (6 months): HK$1,170 ($149.16)
• Multiple (12 and 36 months): HK$1,530 ($195.06)

Price of Visas for U.S. Citizens

• Single Entry Visa HK$1,100 ($140.14)

Price of Visas for U.K. Citizens

• Single Entry Visa HK$940 ($119.77)

Traveling Between Hong Kong and China

Visa Requirements for Hong Kong

Visiting China From Hong Kong

How to Travel from Hong Kong to Shenzhen by High Speed Train, Metro, and Ferry

How to Get a Shenzhen Visa in Hong Kong

How to Travel From Hong Kong to Guangzhou by Train, Bus, and Car

Your Trip to Hong Kong: The Complete Guide

How to Get a Visa for Business Travel to China

What to Pack in Your First Aid Kit for China

Visa Requirements for Vietnam

Required Documents for Travel to China

Visa Requirements for Macao

Getting an Invitation Letter for China for Independent Tourists

Preparing for a Trip to China

Visa Regulations for Asian Countries

Essential Guide to Guangzhou East Railway Station

How to Get a Chinese Visa in Hong Kong For Foreign Travelers

How do you get a Chinese visa in Hong Kong?

It seems to be a popular question in many traveller forums, and I too was a bit confused about the application process before applying for my visa here in Hong Kong .

Having just successfully received my Chinese tourist visa, I figured I would write about the process in order to help any travellers who may be thinking of applying. I had my application done through China Travel Service (Hong Kong ) Limited  in Mong Kok, and once I had all the required documentation ready, the process was actually quite easy.

What you will need:

– Your passport

– A passport sized photo

– Completed application & supplementary application form (available there)

– Photocopy of your accommodations in China

– Photocopy of your ticket in and out of China

– Visa processing fee (I paid HKD $360, but I have a Canadian passport so the visa fee will vary according to nationality .)

Where do I drop off my Chinese visa application in Hong Kong?

China Travel Service ( Hong Kong ) Limited is located in the Tak Bo Building in Mong Kok on 62-72 Sai Yee Street . The two nearest subway stops are Mong Kok or Mong Kok East. Once you hit the corner of Sai Yee Street and Nelson Street, the red sign with white letters is hard to miss. Go inside and walk up to the second floor; this is where you’ll take a number and wait to be called up.

When it’s your turn, an agent will ensure you have filled out all the appropriate boxes and they will make any additional photocopies as necessary. You will have to pay the visa fee upfront in cash. You will then be given a slip of paper which you will need to show when it’s time to pick up your visa. Don’t lose it! Should your visa application not be successful, you will be refunded everything minus HKD $50, which the offices keep as a processing fee.

How long does it take for an application to be processed?

The regular visa application process takes 4 working days, however, if you are in a hurry and need yours done a bit quicker, you can pay to have it done in either 2 days or 1 day. Visa pick-ups are done in the afternoons starting at 2:30 pm.

How can I enter China from Hong Kong?

Aside from flights, train travel seems to be the most popular way to enter China from Hong Kong. You can book train tickets to China from the main train station in Hong Kong, Hung Hom, however, these trains only go to a few select cities in China. If you are buying your tickets in Hong Kong, you will only be able to go to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou or Shenzhen. If you are not travelling to one of these four destinations , all is not lost. Travel agents in Hong Kong are licensed to book onwards transportation for you.

Happy travels around China !

Note: This post is meant to be used as a guide . The process might vary according to your nationality and what kind of visa you are trying to get. 

32 Comments

I should send this to my friend who is planning a trip to Hong Kong next year. Great post, thanks for sharing!

Happy travels 🙂

That’s very helpful. China is one of those countries which prefers that you use an agency to process your visa.

Excellent! Getting visas on the road can be daunting; thanks for covering this!

I totally understand. I just went through that process except I was in the States. But the China Visa service is definitely the best way to go. They got mine through… It was a hassle, but we got it back just in time. It’s great That you put something like this on here to help people though.

I gotta say I love China so far. It is a beautiful place with beautiful people. What are y’alls travel plans like while you are here?

Me and Cez know how troublesome it is to apply for Chinese visa (especially the Z one – working). Hong Kong is pretty flexible and if you are in a real rush, you can visit one of travel agencies located in Chungking Mansions. They can do it for you within 12 hours and it’s not that expensive.

Hello, I´m in Hong Kong and I need to apply for a visa and I´m staying at the Chungking Mansion, do u remember the name of the travel agency?

I was wondering bout this process. Thanks for the info. Still, I think would prefer to have it all prepared from home.

Such a great idea for a post! I have met many a traveller who don’t realize that visas can typically be acquired as easily on the road as from home, so it’s wonderful to read an article detailing simple straightforward instructions and options!

I didn’t know you could get a visa on the road like that! good to know!

It’s actually quite easy to get tourist visas on the road. I tend to do that as opposed to getting them back at home because it gives me more flexibility when I travel.

I’ve been struggling to figure out Thai Visas, but I’ll be definitely visiting China at some point so this is super useful!

Thai visas are a bit tricky. If you arrive overland you’ll get 15 days, but if you arrive by air its 30 days. If you want something longer than that, it’s best to apply back home. I hope the prepping is coming along well! 🙂

This was actually very helpful! Thanks a lot Audrey! You answered all the questions in my mind. Now.. where to get started for my Hong Kong plan.. 🙂

Hi Audrey, I was just wondering if you got your Chinese visa in HK before or after Sept 1st. I heard they changed the guidelines but I can’t seem to find any concrete information about it. Thanks and happy travels! Stephanie

Hi Stephanie, I did apply after September 1st. I’m not entirely sure what the process was like before, but the person who helped us out with our applications explained that they had only recently started asking for photocopies of accommodations and return tickets in order to enter the country.

I did my Visa in June in HK without any problem 6month and they deliver me it in 10 hours – HOWEVER – I have heard that from September 2013 it is not possible to have Visa for China in HK for a period more that 30 days.

Can you confirm ?

I only needed a 30 day single entry visa for my visit, so I don’t have any experience applying for longer ones. I think I remember seeing the option for longer visas on the application form, but this is just from memory – you better double check that with the embassy or a visa processing agency.

So you can book a train ticket from Hong Kong to go all the way to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou or Shenzhen? How did you enter?

Going through Chinese visa issues right now. It really is a pain. My friend who lives in Hong Kong just went in person to one of these locales, waited three hours, didn’t get her visa, and booked a trip to a spa in the Philippines instead. Next time! (I sent her this lol.)

Oh no, that’s too bad her visa didn’t work out, but on the other hand, a spa in the Philippines doesn’t sound so bad! 😉

May I ask what happened with her visa application? I’m going to be going to HK soon to get my Z visa and don’t want to run into any problems…

I’m in Bangkok and having no luck at all getting a Chinese visa! They wanted to see proof of unemployment as I had checked ‘unemployed’ in the occupation section of the application form.

Did they not ask you for this?

Proof of unemployment? How do you even prove that?! I had actually tried checking employed since my last job was teaching, but when I couldn’t list a current employer, they just told me to tick off the box for unemployed. I hear that in some places it’s easier to go through a visa agency as opposed to going through the embassy. Maybe try that instead…

Not everyone can have rush service, there are 17 nationalities that cannot have it since summer 2012. I think they are most part European nationalities, is a must to wait 4 working days. For China visas, Z visas, is not always good to use a visa agent, when we talk about employment they like to see your face.

Thanks for the post. I had mine in the Philippines, and 90 days after, I went back to re-apply for 90 days more and got rejected. My passport is from Spain. I’m going to try that place in Hong Kong now. Are you familiar with budget hotels for 1 person in the area?

Good luck with the visa situation! In terms of accommodations, I used AirBnB to find private rooms. Prices start at about $35-40 a night.

It seems it is no more possible for HK non-resident foreigners to apply for a Chinese visa at HK. Read note n°7 of the Chinese minister of foreign affairs here : http://www.fmcoprc.gov.hk/eng/zgqz/hzsyjbtk/

“7, Applicants without HK resident status are required to submit their applications through the Chinese Embassy or consulate office around your resident country. “

Hi Audrey, thanks so much off this information! It so really useful. My husband and I are heading from HK to China in April. Do you know how many days your visa is for please? As we don’t know what date to book our return. We want to stay 2-3 months but I don’t think that is possible. Thank you Sarah

I am wondering if it is the same process for a business visa?

You’re better off contacting your consulate/embassy for that. The process varies depending on where you are from, length of trip, type of business, etc.

Thank you fellow Canadian! I’ve been looking everywhere for how much it’s going to cost and the exact location. Hurray!

Hi, I am John from the Philippines with an existing working visa that will expire on August, I am planning to invest in a company here mainland china by August 2015 as my current visa expires. I would like to ask if someone could help me with this. what are the requirements to for the visa needed?

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Hong Kong Visa: Visa-Free Entry & Application Guide

Do I Need A Visa to Visit Hong Kong?

Hong Kong provides visa exemption to certain certificate owners for any purpose of visiting, and visa/ entry permit to citizens (ordinary passport holders) of 170 countries . Otherwise, you need to apply for and get a visa to go to Hong Kong as required. Note: A Chinese Visa is not valid for visiting Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, which are considered as third regions from mainland China.

Hong Kong Visa Policy

Hong Kong SAR (Special Administrative Region) operates a different visa policy from mainland China, which includes visa-free entry and visa-required cases as well. The visa-free rule varies from nationality, and permits in-equable duration of stay accordingly. If you’re required to obtain a visa/entry permit to visit Hong Kong, you shall apply for a right visa type based on your intention.

Table of Page Content

• Visa Free Access to HK
• HK Visa Requirements
• Hong Kong Visa Application
• HK Visa Fees
• HK Visa Processing Time
• Travel with China Discovery

Main Hong Kong Visa Types

There are many kinds of visas/permits setting for different kinds reasons of visit to Hong Kong. The most common Hong Kong visas include Visit Visa (for travel/transit, working holiday, HKSAR travel pass, pre-arrival registration), Employment/Investment Visa (for General Employment Policy, training, imported workers, technology talent admission scheme, etc.), Study Visa , Residence and so on. Each type requires specific application documents.

Tips : 1.) If you will go to Hong Kong for tourism, you shall apply for a Hong Kong Visitor Visa (Tourist Visa), if not meeting visa-free policy. 2.) Hong Kong Work Visa (Permit) is only issued to skilled foreigners satisfying in certain programs, like GEP (General Employment Policy), Tech TAS (Technology Talent Admission Scheme), etc. 3.) Whether a Hong Kong Transit Visa is exempted depends on the visitors’ nationality.

Hong Kong Visa Free Entry

As long as you meet one of the two following visa-free situations, you can enter into and visit Hong Kong without a visa. Check the two occasions to figure out if you can get visa exempted.

(Ⅰ) Holding any of below documents allows you to enter Hong Kong without visa or entry permit for any purpose.

• ● Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card
• ● Hong Kong Certificate of Identity
• ● Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Passport
• ● Hong Kong Seaman's Identity Book
• ● Valid Hong Kong Document of Identity for Visa Purposes within the period of validity
• ● British National (Overseas) Passport
• ● Hong Kong Re-entry permit (only for entry from mainland China or Macau)
• ● Travel documents with one of below endorsements: - Holder's eligibility for Hong Kong permanent identity card verified - Holder of this travel document has the right to land in Hong Kong. (Section 2AAA, Immigration Ordinance, Cap. 115, Laws of Hong Kong)

(Ⅱ) Citizens of 170 foreign countries (territories) may visit Hong Kong for a visa-free stay from 7 days to 180 days.

The visa-free access to Hong Kong only applies to aliens holding ordinary passport of the below listed 170 foreign countries and territories. The permitted duration of each stay is different for different nationals. Bear in mind that the visa-free entry is just valid for visit for sightseeing, conducting business activities, attending conference, participating cultural, arts or sport events, and visiting relatives and friends.

Some visa-free periods:

British Citizen - 180 days; U.S.A/Canada/Australia /Brunei/French/Germany/Japan Citizen - 90 days

Thailand/Indonesia /Qatar Citizen - 30 days; Bhutan/Philippine/Haiti/Niger Citizen - 14 days

Though Indians enjoy 14-day visa-free entry to Hong Kong, a pre-arrival registration (PAR) is required

The Hong Kong Visa Free Countries List & Visa-free Period:

Notes: The above listed is the overall visa requirements ( click here to download ) for 224 foreign countries, including the 170 visa-free countries and maximum stay period, and some visa-required countries. If you visit Hong Kong for other purposes (work, study, business, or residence), or intend to stay longer than the maximum visiting time, you shall apply for a Hong Kong SAR Visa separately.

Popular Hong Kong Visa-free Travels:

>> 1 Day Classic Hong Kong Tour

>> 1 Day Hong Kong Culture Tour with A Savory of Victoria Harbor

>> 2 Days Essence of Hong Kong Tour (Hong Kong Island + Lantau Island)

>> 2 Days Hong Kong & Macau Highlights Tour

>> 3 Days Hong Kong In-depth Tour with Escorted Walking Experience

>> 2024 Hot Hong Kong Tours

How to Get a Hong Kong Visa?

For those don’t holding certificate or passport from170 foreign countries or territories mentioned above, a visa/entry permit is needed to travel to or transit in Hong Kong. Thus, each applicant should prepare and submit related application form, photos, visa fees and supporting documents to the Immigration Department in Hong Kong, or Chinese Embassies in foreign countries, and other authorities. Visa-free visitors who will stay beyond the entitled visa-free period and want to establish, join in any business, study, training and commercial activities are also required to apply and obtain a visa for Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Visa we introducing refers to Hong Kong Tourist (Visitor) Visa .

Hong Kong Visa Requirements:

◆ A passport which are valid for at least 6 months and has blank visa pages;

◆ A completed Hong Kong Visit/Transit Visa Application Form (applicants shall fill in Form ID 1003A & sponsor shall finish Form ID 1003B)

◆ Two recently-taken photos , and one should be attached on the application form ID 1003A;

◆ Photocopy of applicant’s passport/travel document, including information page with full name, nationality, date of birth, and visa pages with records.

◆ Travel related materials, including round-trip flight tickets, hotel reservation, documents proving purpose of the visit (invitation letter), tour plan, etc. For transit, proof of continue visiting to next destination is required.

◆ Sponsor identity and relevant certificates if is invited or go to HK for family visit.

* Applicants and sponsors can download application form and check detailed required documents list in https://www.immd.gov.hk/eng/forms/hk-visas/visit-transit.html (official website of HK Immigration Department Office).

Valid Passport for HK Visa Application

HK Visitor Visa Application Form

How to Apply for Hong Kong Visa?

According to particular cases, each visitor can choose from the following 5 ways to submit visa or entry permit application for Hong Kong.

Option 1: Use the express service to send the completed application forms and all necessary documents directly to the Hong Kong Immigration Department Office. (Address: 2nd Floor, Immigration Tower, 7 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 香港湾仔告士打道7号入境事务大楼二楼入境事务处收发小组.)

Option 2: Submit the application materials to HK Immigration Department through a local sponsor in Hong Kong.

For the 2 ways above, it’s advised to fax the form and documents to (852) 2824 1133 as early as possible to shorten the processing time. The original completed form with photo should be send to Immigration Office by airmail at the same time. And a visa/entry permit will be issued upon receipt of original form and successfully verification.

Option 3: Submit application in person to the overseas (nearest) Chinese Embassy or diplomatic and consular mission you reside. It suits for those live close to the institutions in foreign countries. And beware some Chinese Embassies and Consulates has made China Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) to accept application and then transfer to embassy to investigate and issue.

Applicants should prepare documents as required on the offcial website of HK Immigration Department, and then take them to the CVASC office to submit directly.

Option 4 - (If you reside in Beijing, China): Apply for Hong Kong visa from the Immigration Division of the Office of the Government of the HKSAR in Beijing, Beijing Office.

Address: No.71, Di’anmen Xidajie, Xicheng District, Beijing 中国北京西城区地安门西大街七十一号 Telephone: (8610) 6657 2880 Office Hours: 08:30 -12:00 & 13:00-17:30 (Monday to Friday, closed on public holidays.)

Option 5 - (If you reside in Shanghai, China): Foreign passport holders can apply at the Immigration Division of the Hong Kong Econimic and Trade Office in Shanghai (SHETO).

Address: 21F, The Headquarters Building, No.168 Middle Xizang Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai 上海市黄浦区西藏中路168号 Telephone: (8621) 6351 2233

Hong Kong Immigration Tower

China Visa Application Center in Singapore

HK SAR Government Beijing office Location Map (click to enlarge)

Notes: 1.）Any application through e-mails are not accepted. 2.) Hong Kong Visa Application Online service is not provided at present. 3.) For application via CVASC, applicants don’t need to fill forms and make appointments online, and collect biometric information as required for Chinese Visa.

How Much is Hong Kong Visa Fee

The acceptable payment of Hong Kong Visa fees are different in each situation.

A. For application directly mailed to HK Immigration Depart , a cashier order or bank draft (issued by bank owning connected bank in HK) need to be sent together with form and documents. Please make payable to “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region”. Never put cash in the parcel.

B. For application through sponsor in Hong Kong, the fee shall be paid by cash, EPS or check upon collection.

C. For application to other authorities, the visa/entry permit fee shall be paid directly to them. But China Visa Application Service Center charge extra service fee except the visa application costs and post fees.

Hong Kong Visa Fees:

How Long Does A Hong Kong Visa Take? - HK Visa Processing Time

Visa processing time largely depends on where you apply. After submission to Chinese Embassy or China Visa Application Service Center, it normally takes about 4 working days for regular processing. Express service needs approve by the embassy and will charge additional fees. However, if you ship application materials directly to HK Immigration Department, or your case will be transmitted to HK, the whole application needs to at least 4 weeks , or a month. They only begin process after receiving all required application documents. The mentioned processing time is listed for reference only.

Travel China with China Discovery

China Discovery is a professional and experienced travel companion who offers high-value and worry-free tours for you. We not only design ideal itinerary covering sightseeing, dining, transfer and hotel, but also can provide any visa support & help you need to travel to China. ( How to Get A Visa for China ) Most travelers choose Hong Kong and hot destinations in mainland China together, including Beijing, Shanghai and Xian, to experience different kinds of landscape, culture and history of China. Even the combined tour may take advantage of transit visa exemption to visit many popular destinations without visa. China 144-Hour Visa-free Transit / China 72-Hour Visa-free Transit >>

Please feel free to contact us to join in our top recommended China tours, or let us customize a once-in-a-lifetime trip to China for you.

Most Recommended China Hong Kong Tours:

• ● 6 Days In-depth Guilin Tour from Hong Kong
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Useful Hong Kong Maps & Transportation to & Around

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Top 3 tours chosen by most customers to explore in the best way. Check the detailed itinerary, or tailor your own trip now with us.

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Start planning your tailor-made holiday to China by contacting one of our specialists. Once inquired, you’ll get a response within 0.5~23.5 hours.

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Entry arrangements for mainland, macao, taiwan & overseas chinese residents, arrangements for entry to the hong kong special administrative region (hksar) from the mainland china.

• Article 22(4) of the Basic Law of the HKSAR stipulates that, for entry into the HKSAR, people from other parts of China must apply for approval. The provisions of this Article, in accordance with the Interpretation by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress in 1999, mean that Mainland residents who wish to enter Hong Kong for whatever reason, must apply to the relevant authorities of their residential districts for approval in accordance with the relevant national laws and administrative regulations, and must hold valid documents issued by the relevant authorities.
• Mainland residents who wish to settle in Hong Kong must apply for One-way Permits (OWPs) from the Public Security Bureau Offices where their household registrations are kept.
• His/her spouse is settled in Hong Kong; may bring along children aged under 18.
• He/she is aged above 18 and under 60 and needs to come to Hong Kong to take care of his/her parents settled in Hong Kong both of whom are aged above 60 and have no children in Hong Kong.
• He/she is aged above 60 and has no children in the Mainland, and has to depend on his/her children aged above 18 settled in Hong Kong.
• He/she is aged under 18 and has to depend on his/her parents settled in Hong Kong.
• He/she is a child of a Hong Kong permanent resident and holds a Certificate of Entitlement.
• Mainland officials and personnel who wish to enter Hong Kong for visit are required to obtain an Exit-entry Permit for Travelling to and from Hong Kong and Macao for official purposes and an appropriate endorsement relating to the purpose of entry at the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office.

Visit relatives

• Mainland residents who wish to visit their relatives in Hong Kong are required to obtain an “Exit-entry Permit for Travelling to and from Hong Kong and Macao” (EEP) with an “endorsement for visiting relatives (Tanqin)” from the relevant Public Security Bureau Office.

Group tours

• Mainland residents who wish to come here for sightseeing may join group tours organized by designated Mainland tour companies. Group tour members need to obtain an EEP and an “endorsement for group visit (Tuandui Luyou)” issued by the Public Security Bureau Office. As group tour visitors, they must arrive and depart together as a group.

Individual visits

• Mainland residents from Guangdong Province and 30 cities, namely Shanghai, Beijing, Nanjing, Suzhou, Wuxi, Hangzhou, Ningbo, Taizhou, Fuzhou, Xiamen, Quanzhou, Tianjin, Chongqing, Chengdu, Jinan, Shenyang, Dalian, Nanchang, Changsha, Nanning, Haikou, Guiyang, Kunming, Shijiazhuang, Zhengzhou, Changchun, Hefei, Wuhan, Xian and Qingdao who wish to come here for sightseeing purpose in individual capacity are required to obtain an EEP and an “endorsement for individual visit (Geren Luyou)” from the relevant Public Security Bureau Office.

Business visits

• Mainland residents who wish to make business trips to Hong Kong in their private capacity are required to obtain an EEP and an “endorsement for business visit (Shangwu)” from the relevant Public Security Bureau Office. (Click  here for "Notice to Mainland Residents holding Business Visit Endorsement")

Exchanges and Visits

• Six categories of Mainland talents of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (including outstanding talents, scientific research talents, education talents, healthcare talents, legal talents and other talents) who meet the eligibility criteria set by the Mainland authorities and wish to enter Hong Kong for exchanges and visits are required to obtain an EEP and an "exit endorsement for talents (Rencai)" issued by the relevant Public Security Bureau Office.

Other purposes of visit

• Mainland residents who wish to enter Hong Kong as a visitor for other purposes such as treating an illness, attending a funeral or participating in proceedings, etc are required to obtain an EEP and an “endorsement for other purposes (Qita)” from the relevant Public Security Bureau Office.
• Under current arrangements, Mainland residents who wish to visit Hong Kong are required to obtain an EEP and an appropriate exit endorsement from the relevant Public Security Bureau Office. In general, a Mainland resident who is in possession of a valid EEP bearing a valid exit endorsement may be landed in Hong Kong as a visitor, with a limit of stay in accordance with the exit endorsement, provided that normal immigration requirements are met. The number of journeys to Hong Kong will be stated in the exit endorsement, i.e. single-journey, double-journey or multiple-journey.
• If an EEP holder travelling with a single-journey or double-journey exit endorsement enters Hong Kong again after a side trip before the expiry of the limit of stay previously imposed, he/she will be given permission to land with the same limit of stay as that given in the previous trip, provided that normal immigration requirements are met (e.g. if the limit of stay previously imposed is until 8 May and the EEP holder enters Hong Kong again on 4 May, he/she may be landed until 8 May).
• If an EEP holder travelling with a single-journey or double-journey exit endorsement enters Hong Kong again after a side trip on the last day of the limit of stay previously imposed, he/she will be given permission to land for one more day to facilitate his/her return trip to the Mainland, provided that normal immigration requirements are met (taking the above example, if the EEP holder enters Hong Kong again on 8 May, he/she may be landed until 9 May).
• If an EEP holder travelling with a multiple exit endorsement (except the multiple-journey (one trip per week) exit endorsement for Individual Visit valid for 1 year (abbreviated as “one-trip-per-week” exit endorsement) and the "Tanqin" exit endorsement valid for three months) enters Hong Kong again after a side trip, he/she will be given permission to land with the limit of stay as specified on the multiple exit endorsement, provided that normal immigration requirements are met.
• with the same limit of stay as that given in the previous trip if he/she returns to Hong Kong before the expiry of the limit of stay previously imposed and within the same week (calculating from Monday to Sunday) of his/her last arrival;
• with the limit of stay as specified on the exit endorsement if he/she returns to Hong Kong not within the same week (calculating from Monday to Sunday) of his/her last arrival.
• A journey to Hong Kong specified on the exit endorsement will be treated as completed when the EEP holder returns to the Mainland. Note 1: With effect from 1 September 2008, Mainland residents travelling on EEP without an exit endorsement for Macao will not be permitted to enter Macao from Hong Kong by the Macao authorities. Note 2: With effect from 12 January 2016.
• Holders of People’s Republic of China (PRC) passports who are in transit through Hong Kong to and from another country or territory may be granted a stay of seven days on each landing without the prior need to obtain an entry permit provided that normal immigration requirements are met, including possession of valid entry facilities for the destination and confirmed onward booking for the overseas journey.
• If a Mainland resident is in possession of both valid EEP and PRC passport, he/she may, upon his/her entry into Hong Kong and in accordance with his/her purpose of visit, produce his/her EEP or PRC passport (except arriving from Macao and via Hong Kong to the Mainland) for entry into Hong Kong.

State employees

• State employees who come to work for state-owned or joint-venture enterprises/organisations in Hong Kong should obtain an employment endorsement through the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office or designated Foreign Affairs Offices in provinces and cities.

Top Talent Pass Scheme

• Mainland residents who meets the relevant eligibility criteria may apply to come to work in Hong Kong under the Top Talent Pass Scheme. Applicants should complete the online application through the GovHK website . For more information, please click here or refer to the “Guidebook for Top Talent Pass Scheme” [ ID(C) 1026 (Chinese version) or ID(E) 1026 (English version)].

Imported workers

• For the Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme, applications must be submitted through employers granted with the approval-in-principle to import workers to the Immigration Department. Applicants and their employers should complete application form ID 1001A and ID 1001B respectively. For detailed information, please refer to the pamphlet "How to apply under Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme" published by the Labour Department and the "Guidebook for Entry under Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme" [ ID(C) 1002 (Chinese version) or ID(E) 1002 (English version)] published by the Immigration Department.
• For the Special Scheme to Import Care Workers for Residential Care Homes, the employer must be granted with a quota for importing care worker by the Director of Social Welfare and the quota is still valid. Applicants and their employers should complete application form ID 1028A and ID 1028B respectively. For detailed information, please refer to the “Special Scheme to Import Care Workers for Residential Care Homes – Points to Note” published by the Social Welfare Department and the "Guidebook for Entry under Special Scheme to Import Care Workers for Residential Care Homes" [ ID(C) 1029 (Chinese version) or ID(E) 1029 (English version)] published by the Immigration Department.
• For the Sector-specific Labour Importation Schemes, the employer must be granted with a quota for importing labour by the designated officers of the concerned bureaux/departments (please refer to Other Details of Sector-specific Labour Importation Schemes ) and the quota is still valid. Applicants and their employers should complete application form ID 1030A and ID 1030B respectively. For detailed information, please visit the websites of the respective bureau/department concerned and refer to the "Guidebook for Entry under Sector-specific Labour Importation Schemes" [ ID(C) 1031 (Chinese version) or ID(E) 1031 (English version)] published by the Immigration Department.

Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals

• Mainland residents (the candidates) who possess special skills, knowledge or experience of value to and not readily available in the HKSAR may apply to come to work in Hong Kong under the Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (the Scheme). Candidates should complete application form ID 990A . The employing companies should complete application form ID 990B . Applications must be submitted by the candidates' employers who should be registered companies in Hong Kong. Direct applications by the candidates will not be accepted. Mainland residents visiting Hong Kong may not request to prolong their limit of stay on grounds of having submitted applications under the Scheme. Upon approval of the applications, the Immigration Department will issue employment entry permits (in the form of “e-Visa” ). Candidates should apply for an EEP and the relevant exit endorsement from the relevant Mainland authorities. For detailed information on the Scheme, please refer to the “Guidebook for Entry for Employment as Professionals in Hong Kong” [ ID(C) 991 (Chinese version) or ID(E) 991  (English version)].

Technology Talent Admission Scheme

• The Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS) provides a fast-track arrangement for eligible companies to admit non-local technology talent to undertake research and development (R&D) work for them in the HKSAR. Eligible companies would first have to apply for a quota. A company allotted with a quota by the Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC) can accordingly sponsor an eligible person to apply for an employment visa/entry permit within the 24-month quota validity period. For details of TechTAS, please refer to the " Application Guide – TechTAS 01 " and " Application Guide – TechTAS 02 " in the website of ITC .
• there is no security objection and no known record of serious crime in respect of the applicant;
• the employing company has a valid quota approved by ITC at the time of application;
• the applicant is employed as a full-time employee in the HKSAR by the employing company;
• the applicant is engaged principally in conducting R&D in the areas of advanced communication technologies, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, cybersecurity, data analytics, digital entertainment, financial technologies, green technology, integrated circuit design, Internet-of-Things, material science, microelectronics, quantum technology or robotics;
• the applicant is a degree-holder in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) from a well-recognised university, which is among the top 100 universities for STEM-related subjects in the latest publication of Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Ranking Table, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Ranking Table (Shanghai Ranking) or Times Higher Education Ranking Table. Work experience is not compulsory for those with a Master’s or Doctoral degree, whereas those with a Bachelor’s degree only should possess a minimum of one year of work experience in the relevant technology area. Persons not meeting the academic requirements but possessing good technical skills in specialty areas, proven professional abilities and/or relevant experience and achievements can be considered on a case-by-case basis with full justifications. In such case, relevant documentary evidence should be provided;
• the applicant is offered remuneration not lower than the prevailing market level for comparable jobs in the HKSAR;
• the applicant meets the specific particulars pertaining to the job position set out in the quota allotment letter issued by ITC; and
• the bona fides of the employing company and the applicant are not in doubt.
• Mainland residents applying to come to work in Hong Kong under TechTAS should submit their application through online system .

Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates

• Mainland residents who are/were non-local students Note 3 and have obtained an undergraduate or higher qualification in a full-time and locally-accredited programme in Hong Kong may apply to stay/return and work in Hong Kong under the Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates . Applicants who submit applications within six months after the date of their graduation (i.e. the date shown on their graduation certificates) are classified as non-local recent graduates and those who submit applications after six months of the date of their graduation are classified as non-local non-recent graduates. All applicants should submit their application and upload supporting documents through our online system . For detailed information on the arrangement, please refer to the “Guidebook for Entry for Employment as Professionals in Hong Kong” [ ID(C) 991 (Chinese version) or ID(E) 991 (English version)]. Mainland residents who are/were GBA campus graduates and have obtained an undergraduate or higher qualification in a full-time programme offered by the GBA campus of a Hong Kong university may also apply to come and work in Hong Kong under the Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates . Applicants who submit applications within six months after the date of their graduation (i.e. the date shown on their graduation certificates) are classified as GBA campus recent graduates and those who submit applications after six months of the date of their graduation are classified GBA campus non-recent graduates. All applicants should submit their application and upload supporting documents through our online system . For detailed information on the arrangement, please refer to the “Guidebook for Entry for Employment as Professionals in Hong Kong” [ ID(C) 991 (Chinese version) or ID(E) 991 (English version)]. Note 3: Non-local students refer to persons entering the HKSAR for the purpose of education with a student visa / entry permit issued by the Director of Immigration.
• Mainland residents who are employees or business associates of multinational firms or well-established companies based in Hong Kong may apply to enter Hong Kong for short-term training not exceeding 12 months.
• Mainland residents who receive training for official purpose should obtain the training exit endorsement through the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office. Those who come for training in their private capacity should send completed application forms ID 992A and ID 992B directly by post or through their sponsors in Hong Kong to the Immigration Department. Upon approval of the applications, the Immigration Department will issue training entry permits (in the form of “e-Visa” ). Applicants must apply for an EEP and the training endorsement from the relevant Mainland authorities. For detailed information, please refer to the “Guidebook for Entry for Training in Hong Kong” [ ID(C) 993 (Chinese version) or ID(E) 993  (English version)].
• Applications for entry permits should be sent to the following address: Receipt and Despatch Sub-Unit, Hong Kong Immigration Department, 2/F, Immigration Tower, 7 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong.
• studies in full-time locally-accredited post-secondary local programmes  Note 4 & 5 ;
• studies in full-time locally-accredited non-local programmes  Note 4 at undergraduate or above level which have been approved by the Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China (for the 2016/17 to 2020/21 academic years);
• studies in part-time locally-accredited taught post-graduate local programmes  Note 6 ;
• exchange in full-time locally-accredited local programmes at sub-degree level for not more than six months or exchange in full-time locally-accredited local programmes at undergraduate or above level for not more than one year; or
• the programme concerned is offered by Hong Kong higher education institutions with degree-awarding powers (excluding their continuing and professional education arms); and
• the cumulative duration of short-term studies taken up by any student should not exceed 180 days within any 12-month period.
• secondary school level short-term exchange programmes approved by the Education Bureau of not more than two weeks, if accompanied by Mainland teachers.

Note 4: Local programmes refer to those programmes leading to degrees awarded by local degree-awarding institutions whereas non-local programmes refer to those programmes leading to degrees awarded solely by non-local institutions, irrespective of whether the programmes are jointly run by local and non-local institutions.

Note 5 The agreement between the Mainland and Hong Kong on mutual recognition of degree awards in higher education is not applicable to sub-degree qualifications (i.e. associate degree and higher diploma). Mainland students may come to attend sub-degree level local programmes in Hong Kong since there is no restriction in the Mainland prohibiting them to pursue further studies at education institutions outside the Mainland on a personal basis.

Note 6: The programmes to be taken up by Mainland students must be offered by the University Grants Committee (UGC)-funded institutions.

• Applicants and their local sponsors should complete application forms ID 995A  and ID 995B respectively. Applications must be submitted to the Immigration Department through the education institution (the sponsor) granting the acceptance. Upon approval of the applications, the Immigration Department will issue entry permits (in the form of “e-Visa” ). Applicants should contact their education institutions regarding “e-Visa” collection. Applicants should apply for an EEP and the relevant exit endorsement from the relevant Mainland authorities. Upon the student's termination of study, the education institution involved should notify the Immigration Department in writing (“Notification of Termination of Studies”) within seven working days from the date of termination. For detailed information, please refer to the “Guidebook for Entry for Study in Hong Kong” [ ID(C) 996 (Chinese version) or ID(E) 996 (English version)].

Quality Migrant Admission Scheme

• Highly skilled or talented Mainland residents who wish to apply for residence in Hong Kong may apply under the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (the Scheme). Applicants should submit application through online system and upload supporting documents. For detailed information on the Scheme, please refer to the “Guidance Notes on Quality Migrant Admission Scheme” [ ID(C) 982  (Chinese version) or ID(E) 982 (English version)].

Residence as Dependants

• For sponsors who have been admitted into Hong Kong to take up employment (as a professional, for investment to establish/join in business, or for training) or studies (in a full-time undergraduate or post-graduate local programme in a local degree-awarding institution) or as entrants under the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme Note 7 , the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme, the Admission Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Residents, the Top Talent Pass Scheme or the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme, their spouse or the other party to a same-sex civil partnership, same-sex civil union, “same-sex marriage”, opposite-sex civil partnership or opposite-sex civil union entered into by him/her in accordance with the local law in force of the place of celebration and with such status being legally and officially recognised by the local authorities of the place of celebration Note 8 , and unmarried dependent children under the age of 18 may apply for entry for residence in Hong Kong as dependants. Under the existing policy, while dependants whose sponsors have been admitted into Hong Kong for study may take up studies in Hong Kong, they are prohibited from taking up employment in Hong Kong unless they have obtained prior permission from the Director of Immigration. Note 7: With effect from 15 January 2015, the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme has been suspended until further notice. Note 8: For the avoidance of doubt, the terms “civil partnership” and “civil union” above mean a legal institution of a nature which is akin to spousal relationship in a marriage. The same-sex civil partnership, same-sex civil union, “same-sex marriage”, opposite-sex civil partnership and opposite-sex civil union entered into in accordance with laws outside Hong Kong are limited to only relationships which are legally and officially recognised in the places of celebration. Such relationships normally have the following features: (a) the entering into and dissolution of the relationship are governed by legislation of the place where it is entered into; (b) the relationship requires registration by the competent authority specified by the legislation of the place where it is entered into; (c) the registration is evidenced in a written instrument issued by the competent authority; and (d) parties to the relationship have a mutual commitment to a shared life akin to spouses to the exclusion of others on a permanent basis. Such relationships do not include de facto spouse, partners in cohabitation, fiancé/fiancée, etc.
• Dependants and their local sponsors should complete application form ID997 . For detailed information, please refer to the “Guidebook for Entry for Residence as Dependants in Hong Kong” [ ID(C) 998 (Chinese version) or ID(E) 998 (English version)]. Note: The existing Top Talent Pass Scheme online application system , Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates online application system , Admission Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Resident online application system , Technology Talent Admission Scheme online application system , Quality Migrant Admission Scheme online application system , New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme online application system , Application for Entry for Employment as Professionals in Hong Kong ( ID 990A ), Application for Entry for Training in Hong Kong ( ID 992A ), Application for Entry for Study in Hong Kong ( ID 995A ), Application for Entry for Investment as Entrepreneurs in Hong Kong ( ID 999A ) have built in the accompanying dependant’s application. The sponsor may include his/her accompanying dependant’s application for entry for residence when submitting the aforesaid applications online or when completing the aforesaid entry application forms, and the accompanying dependant will not be required to complete application form ( ID 997 ) separately.
• Passport holders of about 170 countries or regions may visit (including transit) Hong Kong without a visa/entry permit in accordance with the respective type of travel documents they hold, provided that normal immigration requirements are met. Reference should be made to the "Visit Visa / Entry Permit Requirements for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region" webpage. The webpage also lists out holders of passports who need to obtain a visa/entry permit before they can come for visit or transit.
• Holders of foreign passports who are living in the Mainland may apply to enter Hong Kong for employment, training, study or residence. All applications will be considered under the existing immigration policy and individual merits of the case.
• Application forms and details of application procedures can be obtained from the Immigration Department Headquarters, Immigration Branch Offices, Overseas Chinese Diplomatic and Consular Missions and HKSAR Government offices outside Hong Kong. The forms can also be downloaded from the Immigration Department's website at www.immd.gov.hk .
• Holders of foreign passports who are living in the Mainland may submit appropriate application forms relating to the purpose of entry to Hong Kong (other than entry under the Top Talent Pass Scheme, the Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates, Capital Investment Entrant Scheme Note 7 , New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme, Quality Migrant Admission Scheme, Admission Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Residents or Technology Talent Admission Scheme) together with the relevant supporting documents to the Immigration Division of the Office of the Government of the HKSAR in Beijing (Beijing Office) or the Immigration Division of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Shanghai (SHETO). Applicants are required to produce their valid travel documents to the Immigration Division of the Beijing Office or the Immigration Division of the SHETO so that a visa/entry permit could be issued if the application is approved. The addresses of the two Mainland offices are : The Office of the Government of the HKSAR in Beijing No. 71, Di'anmen Xidajie,  Xicheng District, Beijing 100009, People's Republic of China. The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Shanghai 21/F, The Headquarters Building, 168 Xizang Road (M), Huangpu District Shanghai 200001 People's Republic of China.
• For holders of foreign passports who are living outside Beijing or Shanghai, they may send completed application forms by post directly to the Immigration Department to the address in paragraph 25 or through their sponsors in Hong Kong.
• Please refer to the fee leaflet ( ID 912 ) for the prescribed fee for a visa/entry permit (in the form of “e-Visa” ) issued by the Immigration Department. Applicants who apply for study in Hong Kong should contact their education institutions to process the payment and collection of their “e-Visa”. For other applicants, upon approval of the applications, the notification of the application result issued by the Immigration Department will include a webpage link for payment. Payment of relevant fees could be made through the said webpage link or the GovHK website or the ImmD Mobile Application. The applicant or his/her authorised representative could also attend the relevant Immigration office in person to pay the relevant fee. If the applicant is unable to pay by the above methods, he/she should send in the fee with the application in the form of a cashier order or bank draft in Hong Kong currency. The cashier order or bank draft should be one from a bank which has a connected bank in Hong Kong and made payable to “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region”.
• For the visa/entry permit fee in RMB charged by the Immigration Division of the Beijing Office or the Immigration Division of the SHETO, please visit the website of the Beijing Office at www.bjo.gov.hk/en/about_hk/visa.html . Payment of fees should be made by the applicant at the time of collecting the visa/entry permit. Fees should be paid in cash or by “cheque for bank transfer purpose”. The cheque should be issued by a bank located in the Mainland and made payable to “The Office of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in Beijing” or “The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Shanghai of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region“.
• It normally takes four to six weeks upon receipt of all necessary documents to process a visa/entry permit application (not applicable to individual scheme/arrangement). An acknowledgement will be sent upon receipt of the application by the Immigration Department.
• For those applications submitted to the Immigration Division of the Beijing office or the Immigration Division of the SHETO, it normally takes three working days to process a visit/transit visa/entry permit application. For other visa/entry permit applications, the normal processing time is four to six weeks upon receipt of all necessary documents. An acknowledgement will be issued upon receipt of the application by the Immigration Division of the Beijing Office or the Immigration Division of the SHETO.
• For more information, please contact the Immigration Division of the Beijing Office by phone at (8610) 6657 2880 extension 033 or by fax at (8610) 6657 2823 , or the Immigration Division of the SHETO by phone at (8621) 6351 2233 extension 160 or by fax at (8621) 6351 9368, or the Immigration Department by enquiry hotline at (852) 2824 6111, by fax at (852) 2877 7711, by email to [email protected] , or visit the Immigration Department’s website at www.immd.gov.hk .

Visit/Transit Arrangements to Hong Kong for Macao Residents

The visit/transit visa/entry permit requirements for Macao residents are as follows:

• Eligible Macao permanent residents holding valid Macao smart permanent identity card; or
• Holders of Visit Permit for Residents of Macao SAR to HKSAR together with proof of Macao permanent resident status.
• Holders of Visit Permit for Residents of Macao SAR to HKSAR who are Macao non-permanent residents or unable to produce proof of their Macao permanent resident status during arrival clearance may visit Hong Kong entry permit-free for up to 30 days on each landing.
• Holders of Macao SAR passports and holders of Macao SAR Travel Permits may transit Hong Kong for a stay up to 7 days entry permit-free to another country or region or from another country or region back to the Macao SAR provided that usual immigration requirements are met, including possession of valid entry facilities for the destination and confirmed onward booking for the overseas journey.
• Visa/entry permit is not required for a visit not exceeding 90 days for holders of Portuguese national passports.

For entry to work, study, establish or join in any business, take up residence or to stay in the HKSAR as a visitor longer than the allowed visa/entry permit-free period, Macao residents will require visas/entry permits.

Arrangements for Entry to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) for Overseas Chinese and Chinese residents of Taiwan

• The following gives a general account of the immigration requirements for overseas Chinese or Chinese residents of Taiwan coming to Hong Kong for visit, transit, taking up employment, joining in or establishing a business, training, study and residence.
• PRC passport holders living overseas wishing to enter Hong Kong for visit, employment, training, study or residence should apply for an appropriate entry permit. Please refer to paragraphs 21-25 for application procedures.
• PRC passport holders who are in transit through Hong Kong to and from another country or territory may be granted a stay of seven days on each landing without the prior need to obtain an entry permit provided that normal immigration requirements are met, including possession of valid entry facilities for the destination and confirmed onward booking for the overseas journey.
• PRC passport holders should apply for an entry permit for social and business visits to Hong Kong.
• PRC passport holders living overseas who have obtained overseas permanent residence, or have been residing overseas for at least one year immediately before the submission of an application and the application is submitted from overseas, may apply for entry for employment under the Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS). For details of the TTPS , please refer to the “Guidebook for Top Talent Pass Scheme” [ ID(C) 1026 (Chinese version) or ID(E) 1026 (English version)].

General Employment Policy – Employment as Professionals or Investment as Entrepreneurs

• PRC passport holders living overseas who have obtained overseas permanent residence and wish to come to work in Hong Kong can apply for entry under the General Employment Policy . PRC passport holders who do not have permanent residence overseas but are presently residing overseas may also apply for an entry permit under the  General Employment Policy to work in Hong Kong if they have been living overseas for at least one year immediately before an application is submitted. The policy governing entry for employment includes, inter alia, that they must possess special skills or knowledge of value to and not readily available in Hong Kong. For entry for investment (to establish/join in business), applicants should also be in a position to make substantial contribution to the economy of Hong Kong, or are establishing or joining in a start-up business supported by a government-backed programme with a rigorous vetting and selection process.
• PRC passport holders living overseas who have obtained overseas permanent residence, or have been residing overseas for at least one year immediately before the submission of an application and the application is submitted from overseas, may apply for entry for employment under the Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS). For details of TechTAS, please refer to the " Application Guide – TechTAS 01 " and " Application Guide – TechTAS 02 " in the website of the Innovation and Technology Commission .
• PRC passport holders who are/were non-local students  Note 1 and have obtained an undergraduate or higher qualification in a full-time and locally-accredited programme in Hong Kong or GBA campus graduates and have obtained an undergraduate or higher qualification in a full-time programme offered by the GBA campus of a Hong Kong university may apply to stay/return/come and work in Hong Kong under the Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates if they have obtained overseas permanent residence; or have been residing overseas for at least one year immediately before the submission of an application and the application is submitted from overseas. Applicants who submit an application to the Immigration Department within six months after the date of their graduation (i.e. the date shown on the graduation certificate) are not required to have secured an offer of employment upon application. Note 1: Non-local students refer to persons entering the HKSAR for the purpose of education with a student visa/entry permit issued by the Director of Immigration.
• PRC passport holders who are employees or business associates sponsored by multinational firms or well-established companies in Hong Kong may apply to enter Hong Kong for short-term training not exceeding 12 months.
• PRC passport holders who have obtained overseas permanent residence may apply to study in registered private educational institutions and recognised tertiary institutions in Hong Kong.
• PRC passport holders who have obtained permanent residence in an overseas country; or have been residing overseas for at least one year immediately before the submission of an application and the application is submitted from overseas, may apply for residence in Hong Kong under the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme . The Scheme is a quota-based entrant scheme that seeks to attract highly skilled or talented persons to settle in Hong Kong. Successful applicants are not required to have secured an offer of local employment before their entry to Hong Kong for settlement.

Capital Investment Entrant Scheme

Important Message:

The Government has announced that the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme would be suspended with effect from 15 January 2015 until further notice. For details and FAQs, please click here .

• PRC passport holders who have obtained permanent residence in an overseas country may apply for residence in Hong Kong under the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme . The objective of the Scheme is to facilitate the entry for residence by capital investment entrants (the entrant), i.e. persons who make capital investment in Hong Kong but would not be engaged in the running of any business here. The entrant is allowed to make his choice of investments amongst permissible assets without the need to establish or join in a business.

New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme

• PRC passport holders who have obtained permanent residence in an overseas country may apply for entry for residence under the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (New CIES) . For details of the New CIES, please click here and refer to the “Rules for New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme”.
• PRC passport holders living overseas who have obtained permanent residence in an overseas country may apply for entry as dependants. PRC passport holders who have resided overseas for not less than one year may apply for entry as dependants to join sponsors who are PRC passport holders and have resided overseas for not less than one year and been admitted to take up employment or as entrants under the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme or the Top Talent Pass Scheme in Hong Kong.
• (i) his/her spouse; or (ii) the other party to a same-sex civil partnership, same-sex civil union, “same-sex marriage”, opposite-sex civil partnership or opposite-sex civil union entered into by him/her in accordance with the local law in force of the place of celebration and with such status being legally and officially recognised by the local authorities of the place of celebration Note 3 ; and
• his/her unmarried dependent children under the age of 18.
• his/her unmarried dependent children under the age of 18; and
• his/her parents aged 60 or above
• Chinese residents of Taiwan living overseas who wish to enter Hong Kong for transit, visit, employment, training, study, residence as dependants or as entrants under the Top Talent Pass Scheme , the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme   Note 2 , the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme or the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme should apply for an appropriate entry permit. Please refer to paragraphs 21-25  for application procedures.
• Chinese residents of Taiwan currently in Taiwan should apply for an entry permit relating to their purpose of entry. For those who wish to visit Hong Kong, they may apply for pre-arrival registration to visit Hong Kong through the GovHK website ( www.gov.hk/par ) free of charge, provided they were born in Taiwan (or born outside Taiwan but have been admitted to Hong Kong as Taiwan residents before) and are not in possession of any travel document issued by other authorities outside Taiwan (except the “Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents”, commonly known as "Tai Bao Zheng”, and an entry permit issued by the Immigration Department). Please refer to the “Guidance Notes on Pre-arrival Registration for Taiwan Residents”  ID(C) 1016 (Chinese version) or  ID(E) 1016 (English version) for details.
• Taiwan residents holding a valid "Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents" may enter Hong Kong as a visitor and stay for up to 30 days irrespective of whether they are transitting through Hong Kong to/from the Mainland or coming to Hong Kong for visit, provided normal immigration requirements are met. They may also apply for a single entry permit or a multiple entry permit through the authorised airlines, provided that they are not in possession of any travel document issued by other authorities outside Taiwan (except the “Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents”, and an entry permit issued by the Immigration Department), but they must hold a travel document valid for at least six months for re-entry to Taiwan. Please refer to  paragraphs 21-25 for application procedures.
• For entry other than the purpose of visit, applicants may submit their applications by sending the completed application forms together with the required documents to the Immigration Department through their sponsors (by post or in person) in Hong Kong.

Application Forms and Guidebooks

• Applicants should complete the appropriate application forms according to their entry purpose. For details, please refer to Annex .
• Please refer to the fee leaflet ( ID 912 ) for the prescribed fee for an entry permit (issued in the form of “e-Visa” ). Upon approval of the applications, the notification of the application result issued by the Immigration Department will include a webpage link for payment. Payment of relevant fees could be made through the said webpage link or the GovHK website or the ImmD Mobile Application. The applicant or his/her representative could also attend the relevant Immigration office in person to pay the relevant fee. If the applicant is unable to pay by the above methods, he / she should send in the fee with the application in the form of a cashier order or bank draft in Hong Kong currency. The cashier order or bank draft should be one from a bank which has a connected bank in Hong Kong and made payable to 'The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region'.
• For Chinese residents of Taiwan currently in Taiwan, please refer to items 7, 8 and 9 of the fee leaflet ( ID 912 ) for the corresponding prescribed fee for a single entry permit, a multiple entry permit with one-year validity and a multiple entry permit with three-year validity. The authorised airlines may levy a charge for handling the applications and the charges may vary among airlines.
• It normally takes four weeks to process an overseas entry permit application and two working days for a multiple entry permit submitted through authorised airlines in Taiwan. An acknowledgement will be sent upon receipt of the application by the Immigration Department if the application is submitted to the Immigration Department directly.
• For more information, please contact the Immigration Department by enquiry hotline at (852) 2824 6111, by fax at (852) 2877 7711, by e-mail to [email protected] , or visit the Immigration Department’s website at www.immd.gov.hk .

The existing Top Talent Pass Scheme online application system , Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates online application system , Admission Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Resident online application system , Technology Talent Admission Scheme online application system , Quality Migrant Admission Scheme online application system , New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme online application system , Application for Entry for Employment as Professionals in Hong Kong ( ID 990A ), Application for Entry for Training in Hong Kong ( ID 992A ), Application for Entry for Study in Hong Kong ( ID 995A ) and Application for Entry for Investment as Entrepreneurs in Hong Kong ( ID 999A ) have built in the accompanying dependant's application. The sponsor may include his/her accompanying dependant's application for entry for residence when completing the aforesaid entry application forms, and the accompanying dependant will not be required to complete application form ( ID 997 ) separately.

Pre-arrival Registration for Taiwan Residents

《港澳居民來往內地通行證》

第一條 基本原則 《港澳居民來往內地通行證》已實施全面網上預約及網上填表，為保障用戶權益，請於登記使用網上預約服務（以下簡稱本服務）前，詳細閱覽以下規定。一旦使用者登記使用本服務，即表示同意並遵守以下所有規定。

第二條 服務簡介 2.1.申請《港澳居民來往內地通行證》需預先網上預約及填報個人資料。申請人填報的個人資料會用於打印申請表及供審批簽發部門作為審批申請之用。 2.2.成功預約的申請人，請於預約時間前30分鐘至預定證件服務中心領取當日辦證籌號，並按籌號次序等候辦理。等候時間會因應當日證件服務中心的人流情況及辦理證件的複雜程度而有所增減，一般可在領籌號後的2小時內完成。 2.3.在辦理現場領取籌號時，必須提供已登記證件原件。上述登記的證件號碼及出生日期，在成功預約後不能更改，該登記的證件號碼在預約辦理日期（含當天）前或預約未作取消情況下，均不能再作另一次同種類業務預約登記。 2.3.1.辦理換發《港澳居民來往內地通行證》（包括到期換發、持證人身份資料變更換發、損毀換發）的，須輸入申請人目前持用的通行證號碼（包括換證次數）作為關鍵證件號。 2.3.2.登記首次申請、遺失補發的會以申請人的香港身份證號碼、11歲以下孩童如已領有特區護照及無相片身份證的，以香港身份證號碼、未領香港身份證的以回港證或簽證身份書號碼作為登記預約的關鍵證件號。 2.4.如需更改、取消預約或查閱預約紀錄，請輸入申請人的關鍵證件號碼、出生日期、預約登記編號三項的任意二項作為檢索預約記錄的關鍵資料。 2.5.申請人未能按預約時間前往辦理，請至少在預約日期前1天更改辦理日期或取消該預約。 2.6.經系統檢驗申請人登記的證件號碼與出生日期不匹配的，該預約會被系統自動取消且不會通知申請人。因此，請申請人確保登記資料準確、無誤。

• 申請人提供的資料不真實或登記的證件號碼與出生日期不匹配；
• 不能提供預約時登記的證件原件；
• 實際辦證的申請類別與預約申請類別不同；
• 預約登記的申請人證件，於預約日期前已在各中心辦理了相關的申請手續；
• 使用者違反本服務條款中規定的使用規則；
• 用戶不按預約的日期、時間或地點領取籌號辦理申請。

第四條 收集個人資料及私隱政策聲明 4.1.香港中旅證件服務有限公司尊重及將保護用戶的個人資料及私隱，並按照《個人資料（私隱）條例》的原則及規定處理及使用用戶的個人資料。 4.2.本服務所收集的使用者個人資料將用於處理用戶申領《港澳居民來往內地通行證》相關事宜。 4.3.當使用者通過本服務預約《港澳居民來往內地通行證》辦理事宜，香港中旅證件服務有限公司獲授權的職員將按照各自許可權查閱使用者個人資料以確認資料的正確性及進行辦證安排。 4.4.香港中旅證件服務有限公司會盡力確保用戶個人資料的存儲安全，並將本服務相關資料提供或交予處理證件辦理相關或允許人士。未經用戶同意，香港中旅證件服務有限公司不會利用使用者提供的個人資料進行產品宣傳或其他用途。

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China Travel Restrictions & Travel Advisory (Updated April 25, 2024)

Updates April 25th, 2024: If you book a trip with us, we can arrange a port visa for you to travel to China. China"s port visas are similar to the "visas on arrival" of some other countries. It enables a stay in China for up to 30 days. Contact us to book a trip.

Updates March 7th, 2024 : Travelers from the following countries could enjoy visa-free entry to China for tourism, business, transit, or visiting friends and relatives.

• From December 1st, 2023, to November 30th, 2024: France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, and Spain.
• From March 14th to November 30th, 2024: Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, and Switzerland.
• Singapore, Brunei
• Malaysia (from December 1st, 2023 to November 30th, 2024)

If you want to arrange a private tour, even tentatively, simply contact us .

Content Preview

• What Ways to Enter China
• Do I Still Need a PCR Test to Enter China
• Hong Kong/Macau Travel Restriction

International Flights to China

What to expect when traveling in china, best times to travel to china, 8 ways to enter china: all open now.

Since China has fully permitted visa applications, there are now several ways to enter the country.

If you still hold a valid Chinese visa (any type including a tourist visa, 10-year visa, a port visa, etc.), you can use it to enter China.

If you don't have a Chinese visa or your visa has expired, you can apply for a new one. All visas can now be applied for, including tourist visas, business visas, work visas, and so on. (International visitors can apply for a tourist visa to the Chinese Mainland in Hong Kong.)

For the documents required for a visa application, you can refer to the information given by a Chinese embassy/consulate . Please submit your application at least two months in advance.

To apply for a tourist visa (L visa), you will be asked to provide an invitation letter issued by a Chinese travel agency or individual or round-trip air tickets and hotel bookings.

When booking a private tour with us, we can provide you with an invitation letter, which is one more thing we do to make your travel more convenient, giving you more flexibility with your air tickets and hotel bookings.

Now it is very easy to apply for a visa . You can easily apply by yourself without an intermediary. The following is how one of our clients successfully applied for a Chinese tourist visa:

• First, fill out the form at the China Online Visa Application website ;
• Second, make an appointment on this website to submit your visa materials on Appointment for Visa Application Submission website ;
• Third, take the required documents to the embassy to submit;
• Finally, you will get a return receipt if your documents are qualified.

Usually, you will get your visa after 7 working days. The application fee is about USD185 for US citizens.

Q: What if my passport expires but my visa doesn't?

A: You can travel to China on the expired passport containing valid Chinese visa in combination with the new passport, provided that the identity information (name, date of birth, gender, nationality) on both passport identical.

If there is a change to any of the above details, you must apply for a new visa.

2. 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy

If you do not apply for a Chinese visa, you may still have the opportunity to visit these areas of China visa free: the Shanghai area (including Suzhou, Hangzhou, etc.), the Beijing area (with Tianjin and Hebei), the Guangzhou area (Shenzhen, Zhuhai, etc.), and more. Take advantage of the 6-day visa-free entitlements.

Find out if you could use the 144-hour visa-free transit policy with our information on China's 144-hour Visa-Free Policy (Eligible Entry/Exit Ports, Applicable Countries, Documents to be Prepared...)

You can also obtain entry and exit control policies through the 24-hour hotline of the National Immigration Administration:

• Beijing: 0086 (+86)-10-12367
• Shanghai: 0086 (+86)-21-12367
• Guangzhou: 0086 (+86)-20-12367

Quick Test: Will My Route Qualify for China 72/144-Hour Visa-Free Transit?

1. I will depart from (only applies to direct or connected flight):

2. I will arrive in China at [city], [airport / railway station / port].

3. My arrival date is...

4. I will leave for [country/region] from China (the bounding destination on the air ticket):

5. My departure date is...

6. My nationality is...

8. I have Chinese visa refusal stamps in my passport.

You qualify to enjoy China's 72-hour visa-free policy.

You qualify to enjoy China's 144-hour visa-free policy.

You don't qualify to enjoy China's 72-hour or 144-hour visa-free policy.

Reason you don't qualify:

• You must be in transit to a third country or region.
• You must leave the city area (prefecture or municipality) after the 72/144 hours (the 72/144-hour limit is calculated starting from 00:00 on the day after arrival, i.e. 24:00 on the arrival date).
• Your passport must be valid for more than 3 months at the time of entry into China.
• Your passport nationality is not eligible for the 72/144-hour visa exemption program.
• You have Chinese visa refusal stamps in your passport.

3. Port Visas (Landing Visas)

If you don't have time to get a visa, or if you find it cumbersome to apply for a tourist visa, you could consider traveling to China through a port visa.

Port visas can be applied for a group at least including 2 people. You need to enter the country within 15 days after you get your entry permit. The port visa allows a stay period of 1 to 2 months.

Applicable ports include Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Guilin, Xi'an, Chengdu, etc.

Note: Tourists from America are not granted a port visa in Shanghai.

Book your China trip with us and we can help you apply for a port visa.

4. Visa Exemption for ASEAN Tour Groups to Guilin

In addition, tour groups from ASEAN member countries, including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Singapore, Myanmar, Brunei, and the Philippines, can visit Guilin for 144 hours without visas as long as they meet the visa-free transit policy requirements.

5. Shanghai Visa-Free Policy for Cruise Groups

Shanghai has a 15-day visa-free policy for foreign tourist groups entering China via a cruise. You must arrive and depart on the same cruise and be received by a Chinese travel agent at the Shanghai Cruise Terminal (or Wusong Passenger Center).

6. Hainan Visa-Free Access

No visa is required for staying on Hainan Island for up to 30 days for ordinary passport holders from 59 countries. Groups and individual tourists must book a tour through an accredited travel agency.

Find out whether you qualify for the policy here .

7. Visa Exemption for the Pearl River Delta Area

International travelers from Hong Kong or Macau are able to visit the Pearl River Delta area (Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, etc.) visa-free as long as they go with a registered tour provider, such as us.

8. APEC Cards

If you hold a valid APEC business travel card, you can simply enter China with the card without applying for a visa.

Travelers who hold a valid APEC business travel card can stay in China for up to 60 days.

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Do I Still Need a PCR Test or Antigen Self-Test to Enter China

No. Starting from August 30, all travelers entering China will no longer need to undergo any COVID-19 testing. You do not need to submit any test results for COVID-19 before departure.

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Hong Kong / Macau Travel Restriction

Hong kong entry requirements.

Travelers from any region bound for Hong Kong will no longer need to take pre-flight COVID-19 tests (no PCR test, no RAT test) from April 1.

There is also no need for any tests when traveling from Hong Kong to the Chinese Mainland. Hong Kong could be a good gateway for your China trip. See suggestions on China Itineraries from Hong Kong (from 1 Week to 3 Weeks).

Direct high-speed trains from Guangzhou and Shenzhen to Hong Kong are available now. In preparation for the Canton Fair, it is expected that direct high-speed ferries will be launched from Guangzhou Pazhou Port to Hong Kong's airport in mid-April.

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Macau Entry Requirement

From August 30, travelers from any region bound for Macau will no longer need to take pre-flight COVID-19 tests (no PCR test, no RAT test).

There is also no need for any tests when traveling from Macau to the Chinese Mainland.

Inbound and outbound international flights in the week beginning March 6th rose by more than 350% compared with a year earlier, to nearly 2,500 flights, according to Chinese flight tracking data from APP Flight Master.

At present, there are one or two direct flights a week from New York to Shanghai, Los Angeles to Beijing, Seattle to Shanghai, London to Guangzhou, etc.

There are also many flight options with stopovers that are more frequent and affordable. Testing at transit airports is now not required!

The Coronavirus outbreak in China has subsided. China looks like it did in 2019 again. No special measures (like PCR tests or health codes) are required when traveling around China. All attractions are open as normal.

Wearing a mask is not mandatory when traveling. In hotels, masks are off for the most part. But in some crowded places, such as airports or subway stations, many people still wear masks.

Weather-wise, the best times to visit China are spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October), when most of the popular places have their most tourism-friendly weather, except for the "golden weeks" — the first week of May and of October — when most attractions are flooded with Chinese tourists.

If you are looking for smaller crowds, favorable prices, and still good weather, you should consider March and April or September.

Tourism in cultural and historical destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an is hardly affected by weather conditions. They are suitable to be visited all year round.

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Tour China with Us

We've been building our team for over 20 years. Even over the past three years we have continued, serving over 10,000 expats with China tours and getting a lot of praise (see TripAdvisor ).

We are based in China and can show you the characteristics and charm of China from a unique perspective. Just contact us to create your China trip .

Our consultants will listen to and answer your inquiries carefully and prepare the best plan for you.

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Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

• Application Form for Entry for Visit or Transit in Hong Kong (to be completed by the applicant).pdf
• Application Form for Entry for Visit ot Transit (Sponsor) in Hong Kong (to be completed by the sponsor).pdf
• Notice on Long-term Visa Application for US Passport Holders    (2015-10-20)
• Notice on Issuing Visa with a Validity Period of up to 10 Years to Canadian Passport Holders    (2015-10-20)
• Notice on the Use of Electronic Application Form and Online Appointment System for Chinese Visa Application    (2021-05-08)