Chinese Visa Policy and Requirements for Citizens of Hong Kong (China)

Visa Policy

Hong Kong residents are generally permitted to travel to mainland China without a visa for tourism, business, family visits, and transit purposes. They can enter the mainland using their Home Return Permits (HRCs) or other valid travel documents issued by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. However, if Hong Kong residents need to visit mainland China for other purposes or under different circumstances, they may need to apply for a visa.

Visa Application Process

If a visa is required, the process includes:
  1. Online Application: Complete the China Online Visa Application Form on the official website (https://cova.mfa.gov.cn) to fill out the application form, print out the application form and the confirmation page, and sign the confirmation page and item 9 of the form.
  2. In-Person Submission: Submit the application in person at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in Hong Kong according to the appointment time, along with the required documents.
  3. Biometric Collection: Applicants aged between 14 to 70 years old should collect ten fingerprints when submitting the application at the Embassy or Consulate.

Required Documents

  • Completed visa application form and confirmation page.
  • Original passport with at least six months of remaining validity and blank visa pages, and a photocopy of the bio-data page of your passport.
  • One recent colored ID photo, facing forward with a white background and bareheaded.
  • Additional documents based on the visa category (e.g., invitation letter, work permit, proof of kinship).

Chinese Embassy and Consulate in Hong Kong

  • Address: The Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, located at 5th Floor, Building 1, Taikoo Shing Plaza, 1 Taikoo Shing Road, Hong Kong.
  • Phone: +852-3413-2288
  • Fax: +852-2881-3169
  • Email: consulate_hk@mfa.gov.cn
  • Working Hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Visa Types and Purposes

  • L Visa: For tourism. Main documents include a reservation of a round-trip flight ticket and hotel.
  • M Visa: For commercial and trade activities. Main documents include an invitation letter issued by the inviting entity in China.
  • F Visa: For necessary visits, exchanges, or non-commercial activities. Main documents include an invitation letter issued by the inviting entity in China.
  • Z Visa: For working in China. Main documents include a valid Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit in the People’s Republic of China.
  • Q1, Q2 Visa: For visiting or reunion with immediate family members of Chinese citizens or holders of valid China Foreign Permanent Resident ID cards.
  • S1, S2 Visa: For short-term or long-term visiting immediate family members of foreigners residing in China for work, study, or other purposes.

Additional Tips

  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in China.
  • Keep copies of all submitted documents for your records.
  • Check the specific requirements for your visa category, as they may vary.
  • Be aware of the visa processing time and apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.

Conclusion

Understanding the Chinese visa policy and requirements is essential for citizens of Hong Kong planning to visit mainland China. By following the outlined procedures and ensuring all necessary documents are prepared, applicants can increase their chances of a successful visa application. It is always advisable to consult the relevant embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information and guidance.