In a significant move to deepen integration in the GBA, the National Immigration Administration (NIA) has announced 10 new immigration facilitation measures. Six are set to take effect on Nov. 5, with the remaining four scheduled for implementation on Nov. 20. Covering talent flows, customs clearance, and document services, these policies are expected to inject new momentum into the region's coordinated development.
Expanded Talent Pass Scheme to facilitate technology mobility
Under the new policies, the Talent Pass Scheme for Hong Kong and Macao travel will be broadened. Eligible professionals in specified fields can apply for multiple-entry permits valid for one to five years, with each stay not exceeding 30 days. Notably, those working in the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Zone (HTCZ-SZ) will be eligible for three-year multiple-entry permits upon record-filing. Vincent Ma, CEO of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park Limited, stated that these measures will "effectively facilitate efficient talent flows and support high-quality development in the GBA."
Facial recognition upgrade to speed up boundary crossings
Facial recognition clearance will be extended to major checkpoints, including Luohu, Futian, and Huanggang. Eligible travelers will be able to pass through automated gates after completing facial scanning and identity verification. Specially designated "Channel One" lanes will be established at Huanggang and Futian ports to provide expedited clearance for frequent cross-boundary professionals.
On-site visa renewals to ease burden for family visitors
Starting Nov.20, mainland residents visiting family in HK or Macao may renew their permits locally through China Travel Service (HK) at least seven working days before their current permits expire, without returning to the mainland.
Supporting measures to optimize service system
Additional improvements include 24-hour direct transit without inspection at 10 mainland international airports, extension of the 240-hour visa-free transit policy to five additional ports, including the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and West Kowloon Station, and expansion of the "online processing" pilot for travel documents from 20 to 50 cities.
Special support for Hetao cooperation zone to enhance flows
The new policies include dedicated measures to facilitate efficient cross-boundary flow of production factors in the HTCZ-SZ through optimized immigration procedures.
HK SAR government officials and legislators have warmly welcomed the package of measures. They emphasized that these policies will not only significantly improve the convenience of personnel exchanges but also effectively enhance cooperation between Guangdong, HK, and Macao in key areas, including technological innovation and economic collaboration. With the implementation of these measures, the flow of various factors within the GBA is expected to become more efficient, further stimulating regional innovation vitality. This development is anticipated to not only improve the business environment but also substantially boost the overall competitiveness and international influence of the GBA, providing solid support for building a new open economic system.
(Source: Wen Wei Po | English Editor: Wynnea Tian, Liu Yu)
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