China’s National Immigration Administration announced on Monday that foreigners who are permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macau can now apply for multiple-entry travel visas valid for five years to visit mainland China. This policy will take effect from July 10.

Visa Eligibility and Conditions

From July 10, foreign permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macau will be eligible to apply for these five-year, multiple-entry visas. However, each stay on the mainland is limited to a maximum of 90 days. Foreign permanent residents wishing to work, study, or engage in news reporting on the mainland must apply for appropriate visas or residence permits.

Celebrating Hong Kong’s Handover Anniversary

This move was announced on the 27th anniversary of Hong Kong’s handover from British to Chinese rule. It is part of a broader strategy to attract foreign tourists and business travellers back to China after the country reopened its borders post-COVID.

Boosting International Appeal

The special travel permit is also seen as an incentive for foreigners who are permanent residents in Macau, and especially Hong Kong. Hong Kong’s international appeal has suffered due to criticism over its handling of the pandemic and Beijing’s crackdown on street protests in 2019-2020. This new visa policy aims to bolster the city’s attractiveness to foreign residents and investors.

With inputs from Reuters