Overview

• Shenzhen residents can apply for multi-entry visas to Hong Kong starting December 1, 2024, allowing unlimited trips within a year with a maximum stay of seven days per visit.
• The new visa policy replaces the previous 'one-trip-per-week' rule implemented in 2015 due to concerns over parallel trading and overcrowding in Hong Kong border towns.
• Zhuhai residents will be eligible for a 'one-trip-per-week' visa to Macao starting January 1, 2025, while Hengqin residents will gain access to multi-entry permits for Macao on the same date.
• Hong Kong officials and experts view the restored visa policy as a key measure to revive the city’s tourism, retail, and catering sectors after years of economic challenges.
• Authorities have emphasized preparations to prevent a resurgence of parallel trading, which previously strained local resources and led to public dissatisfaction.