Non-Chinese permanent residents will soon have the opportunity to apply for a Mainland Travel Permit card, allowing for expedited clearance at self-service gates when traveling across the Chinese border. The announcement, made on Monday’s Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Establishment Day, commemorating 27 years since the Handover to China, revealed that the issuance of the permit cards will commence on July 10.
In a statement released on Monday, Chief Executive John Lee expressed gratitude to Beijing and emphasized that the initiative will facilitate foreign talent in conducting business in the Greater Bay Area of southern China. Lee acknowledged the significant contributions non-Chinese Hong Kong permanent residents have made to the development of Hong Kong, affirming that the new measure will enable international talent associated with Hong Kong companies to access long-awaited clearance convenience for northbound travel.
The Chief Executive highlighted that the Mainland Travel Permit card will be available to individuals of any nationality or industry, underscoring the city’s international character and diversity. Interested applicants can seek assistance from the China Travel Service to initiate the application process for the card through China’s Exit and Entry Administration. Once approved, successful applicants will be able to make multiple trips between the mainland and Hong Kong, each lasting for 90 days, without the necessity of obtaining a separate visa.
The Mainland Travel Permit card will be valid for five years, with the application, approval, and issuance being overseen by the Chinese authorities.
