23,000 mainland Chinese obtain multi-entry 30-day talent visas to visit Hong Kong
- National immigration authorities share figure for permits for mainlanders taking part in select industry events, following visa launch in early 2023
More than 23,000 mainland Chinese have obtained multi-entry talent visas allowing them to stay in Hong Kong for up to 30 days to take part in technology, innovation, culture and education-related activities since the policy was rolled out last February, according to Beijing’s immigration authorities.
Peng Ling, head of the Immigration Administration’s exit-entry management authorities, shared the latest figure on Monday, which marked an increase from data released in mid-April that logged 18,000 successful candidates.
“With this visa, they have sufficient time to engage in scientific research exchanges, academic discussions and other activities in Hong Kong, effectively promoting the free, convenient and efficient flow of talent and technology,” she said at a regular media briefing in the nation’s capital.
Central authorities launched the scheme in February 2023, allowing mainland talent in science, technology, innovation, culture and education sectors to apply for multi-entry visas valid for one to five years that granted stays of up to 30 days each in Hong Kong and Macau.
By comparison, the duration of stay is typically seven days for other types of exit permits.
Beijing began rolling out a string of more flexible visa measures between Hong Kong and the mainland in early 2023.
Other policies include an extension of the duration of stay for business visits to Hong Kong from seven days to 14, the introduction of multi-entry “northbound” visas for foreign employees working in the city, and a five-year multi-entry mainland travel permit for Hong Kong’s 270,000 permanent residents who hold foreign passports.
