Starting July 10, non-Chinese permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macau will be eligible to apply for a special permit allowing them to travel to mainland China for up to 90 days per visit. This new permit expands the fast-track immigration channels, previously exclusive to Hong Kong residents with ‘Home Return Permit’ cards, to a broader group, streamlining entry without the need for customs declarations.
Eligibility for the Non-Chinese Mainland Travel Permit
The permit is available to non-Chinese permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macau across all nationalities and industries. It facilitates short-term travel for purposes such as sightseeing and business. Applicants under 18 years old can also apply but must be accompanied by their legal guardians.
Required Documents for the Permit
Applicants need to provide
A valid Hong Kong permanent identity card.
A passport with at least six months of validity (excluding passports not recognized by the Chinese government).
A completed Application Form for Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macau Residents (Non-Chinese Citizens) with a recent photo.
A nationality certificate issued within six months prior to application, which can be either a Notice of Application for Access to Information from the HK Immigration Department or the Certificate of Personal Data from the Macao Identification Services Bureau.
Processing Time
The permit will be issued within 20 working days after the application is accepted. It must be collected within 12 months at a designated service center. Failure to collect the permit within this timeframe, without justifiable reasons, will result in cancellation. Legal guardians can collect the permit on behalf of applicants under 18.
Application Fees
The first application fee from Hong Kong is HKD 260. Renewal or replacement from mainland China costs 230 RMB.
Application Process
Step 1: Online Pre-Application
Complete an application form on the China Travel Service (CTS) Entry Permit Service Hong Kong Limited’s website, submitting personal information and images of your Hong Kong Permanent Resident Identity Card and passport.
Step 2: Appointment Booking
After passing the preliminary review, you will receive an email notification. Log into the reservation system to book an appointment at a designated service center, bringing your completed application form, Hong Kong Permanent Resident Identity Card, passport, and nationality certificates.
Step 3: Submission and Receipt
Upon successful application and payment, you will receive an acceptance receipt indicating your scheduled collection date.
Step 4: Permit Collection
Collect your permit within 12 months of the scheduled date, completing the application process.
This new travel permit simplifies travel for non-Chinese permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macau, offering streamlined access to mainland China for various short-term activities.