Immigration

Entering Hong Kong — Immigration control and visas

Nationals of about 170 countries may enter Hong Kong visa- or permit-free for periods ranging from seven to 180 days. Visitors are not allowed to work in Hong Kong, whether paid or unpaid.

Overseas film crews who are non-visa nationals visiting Hong Kong for a limited time within their visa- or permit-free period for the purposes of legitimate business activities such as location scouting, meetings, etc, may not require a visa or permit to enter Hong Kong. Whether an employment visa is required depends mainly on the nature of activities in Hong Kong. It is best to check with the Immigration Department before coming to Hong Kong since each case is considered on an individual basis. In case an employment visa is required, members of a film crew should apply for individual visas, though they may submit the applications collectively.

As a general rule, all visitors to Hong Kong must satisfy immigration authorities on arrival that they meet normal immigration requirements and qualify for entry as bona fide visitors, including holding a valid travel document with adequate returnability to his/her country of residence or citizenship; possession of adequate funds for the duration of stay; and, unless in transit to the mainland of China or the region of Macau, onward or return tickets.

Persons other than those with the 'Right of Abode' or 'Right to Land' in Hong Kong require the appropriate visa or entry permit before arrival if they wish to come to Hong Kong for employment, setting up a business, investment, study or residence.

Visa/entry permit applications should be submitted to the Immigration Department directly, by post or through a local sponsor. Upon submission, relevant supporting documents will need to be supplied (e.g. employment contract/letter of employment). A local sponsor, usually the prospective employer, will be required to vouch for an applicant. Each application is considered on individual merits. The usual processing time is four to six weeks.

Alternatively, visa/entry permit applications may be submitted through the Chinese Diplomatic and Consular Mission nearest the applicant's place of residence.

Members of film crews who are Mainland residents may apply to work in Hong Kong under the Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals. Applications must be submitted by the employers, which should be registered companies in Hong Kong. Successful applicants will be issued with employment entry permits and they should apply for Exit-entry Permits for Travelling to and from Hong Kong and Macao and relevant exit endorsement from the Public Security Bureau Office where their household registrations are kept.

Mainland residents wishing to take up employment in Hong Kong in an official capacity may submit their applications through the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office in Beijing or the regional Foreign Affairs Offices in provinces and cities.

For more information, please contact the Immigration Department (See Contact List).

Entering the mainland of China

If you wish to visit the mainland of China, it is best to check with the Chinese Diplomatic and Consular Mission nearest your place of residence before departure. You may visit the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People¡¦s Republic of China, www.fmprc.gov.cn,, for visa requirements for entry to the Mainland and addresses of Chinese Diplomatic and Consular Missions.