In a significant policy shift, approximately 30,000 non-Chinese residents have applied for travel permits to mainland China, designed specifically for residents of Hong Kong and Macau. The announcement was made by Peng Ling, director-general of the Citizens’ Exit and Entry Department of the National Immigration Administration, during a press conference in Beijing on Tuesday.
The new policy, which opened for applications last month, allows non-Chinese permanent residents of the two Special Administrative Regions (SARs) to obtain home-return permits. This initiative aims to enhance cross-border movement and foster closer ties between the mainland and these regions.
On the first day of permit issuance, some holders reported a smooth and efficient border clearance experience, showcasing the country’s commitment to improving travel convenience. “Permit holders can travel to and from the mainland multiple times within a five-year validity period,” Peng stated, emphasizing the flexibility this offers for both personal and professional engagements.
With the ability to stay in the mainland for up to 90 days per visit, the permits are expected to cater to a range of needs, including investment opportunities, business collaborations, scientific research, and family visits. Peng characterized the new regulations as a proactive response to the desires of non-Chinese residents for expedited border processes. “They are also the builders and contributors to society in the two SARs,” he noted.
In a broader context, the influx of foreign visitors to China has surged, with more than 17 million arrivals recorded in the first seven months of the year — more than double the number from the same period in 2022. This increase follows the expansion of the 144-hour visa-free transit policy, which took effect last month, and has seen the issuance of port visas to foreigners triple, reaching a total of 846,000.
Liu Haitao, deputy head of the National Immigration Administration, highlighted the economic impact of this surge, estimating that foreign visitors are set to contribute over 100 billion yuan (approximately HK$110 billion) to local economies, with an average spend of about 3,500 yuan per person last year. The term “China travel” has also emerged as a top trend on global social media platforms, reflecting growing international interest.
Looking ahead, Liu affirmed that authorities will continue to broaden visa-free policies and simplify application processes across more than 70 mainland cities, enhancing access for foreigners. Additionally, approximately 23,000 mainland residents have acquired multi-entry talent visas to Hong Kong and Macau since the policy’s introduction in February.
As authorities strive to improve border services and visa policies, the focus remains on fostering greater people-to-people exchanges between the mainland and the two SARs, signaling a new era of connectivity and cooperation.
