This article was originally published on December 13, 2022, and was updated on February 15, 2023, to reflect additional information.
February 15, 2023, Update: The authorities of Hong Kong expanded the pilot program for its visitor facilitation scheme on February 1, 2023. As a result, the scheme will include two new business sectors. Approved sectors include medical and healthcare, higher education, arts and culture, sports, heritage, creative industries, innovation and technology, the Hong Kong Laureate Forum, aviation, international or mega events, finance, development, and construction.
Host organizations that have received authorization from the appropriate government bureaus or departments will be permitted to issue invitation letters to non-local talent in their sectors through the scheme.
Foreign nationals invited through this scheme are permitted to participate in specific short-term activities for up to 14 days and are allowed to receive remuneration for the specified activities.
Original Post From February 10, 2023:
Key Points
- Hong Kong, Macau, and China introduced an exit-entry endorsement pass for approved nationals traveling within Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area (GMA) for scientific research, education, healthcare, law, or business purposes
Overview
The authorities of Hong Kong introduced an exit-entry endorsement pass for travelers arriving from Mainland China in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area (GMA) cities that intend to exit or enter Hong Kong or Macau. The pass is designed for nationals of China, Hong Kong, and Macau traveling for the purpose of scientific research, education, healthcare, law, or business.
The pass can be issued for one, three, or five years, permitting multiple entries between countries. Travelers are allowed to stay a maximum of 30 days per visit. Mainland residents visiting Hong Kong must have a valid two-way Permit with an exit endorsement issued by Mainland authorities.
Holders of the exit endorsement for talent who meet the criteria set by the Hong Kong SAR under the Pilot Scheme on Immigration Facilitation for Visitors Participating in short-term Activities in Designated Sectors can enter the city as visitors to participate in designated short-term activities without needing to obtain employment entry permits.
What are the Changes?
The Hong Kong authorities have introduced an exit-entry endorsement pass for Chinese nationals traveling within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area (GMA) for scientific research, education, healthcare, law, or business purposes. The pass was initially introduced as a pilot project on February 20, 2023.
Looking Ahead
Continue to check the authorities of Hong Kong’s website for the latest updates and information.
Written by: Jessie Butchley, Global Immigration Writer, Envoy Global
Source: The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government
