In a significant move to enhance connectivity and integration, China’s National Immigration Administration (NIA) announced on Monday that non-Chinese permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macao can apply for the Mainland Travel Permit starting July 10.
The announcement, coinciding with the 27th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to the motherland, aims to facilitate the exchange of personnel between the Chinese mainland and the two special administrative regions. The NIA stated that this policy will help Hong Kong and Macao better integrate into the national development framework.
According to an NIA spokesperson, eligible applicants should submit their applications to the China Travel Service (Hong Kong) Ltd or the China Travel Service (Macao) Ltd. The travel permit, valid for five years, allows multiple entries into the Chinese mainland with stays of up to 90 days per visit.
In cases where the travel document is damaged, lost, or expired, holders can apply for a replacement at the exit-entry administration of the municipal public security bureau during their stay on the Chinese mainland. If they are outside the Chinese mainland, they can apply for a replacement or reissue from the respective China Travel Service offices in Hong Kong or Macao.
While the permit facilitates visits for various exchanges, it does not authorize holders to work, study, or engage in journalistic activities on the Chinese mainland. Those activities require separate visas or permits.
The NIA spokesperson emphasized that this new measure is designed to enhance economic and cultural exchanges, promoting prosperity and stability in Hong Kong and Macao. The administration also highlighted its commitment to deepening reforms to improve services, contributing to the integration of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and supporting China’s high-quality development.
Reference(s):
Foreign HK, Macao permanent residents to get mainland travel permits
cgtn.com
