The Chinese government has extended the business visa duration from seven to 14 days for Mainlanders travelling to Hong Kong and Macau.
This is one of the recent measures introduced by China, set to take effect on May 6, 2024, VisaGuide.World reports.
As further revealed by the National Immigration Administration, Mainland residents applying for business visas can submit their applications at any immigration management window of public security organs across the country.
Applicants for multiple business visas can use smart visa equipment to submit applications for business visas for Hong Kong and Macao. The holder’s stay period in Hong Kong and Macao is extended from seven days to 14 days.
Under the new policies, the talent visa policy for Hong Kong and Macau will include residents from Beijing and Shanghai. Six categories of workers in Beijing and Shanghai can now apply for multiple-entry talent visas, lasting one to five years, with each visit to Hong Kong or Macau limited to 30 days.
Authorities have also introduced multiple-entry visas for mainland residents traveling to Macau for exhibitions, medical treatment, or performing arts activities, among others.
For those seeking medical treatment in Macau, one to two accompanying persons may also apply for the same type of visa.
Another measure involves the members of the “Qin’ao Tour Group” travelling to and from Qin’ao multiple times.
After entering Macau, members of the group can make multiple round trips between Hengqin and Macau within seven days using the same group visa via Hengqin Port.
New policies also include implementing a pilot program for “fully online processing” of issuance and renewal of travel permits and passports.
This implies that people aged 16 and older who have permanent residency and want to replace or renew their passports or apply for travel permits to Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwan can do it online through the National Immigration Administration service platform.
This policy will start in Bejing as a pilot project and is expected to expand across the country.
As noted by authorities, these measures were taken to encourage transparency, support top-notch progress, ensure key national strategies are put into action, and meet the people’s expectations and requirements.
