In a bid to simplify travel and residency processes, China’s central government has announced two new measures aimed at residents from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan. These new policies, which went into effect on Thursday, focus on easing procedures for obtaining temporary electronic travel permits and improving the verification process for travel and residence documents.
Under the new regulations, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan residents who lose, damage, or forget to bring their travel permits will now be able to apply for a temporary electronic permit valid for seven days. This permit allows travelers to board flights and trains within mainland China, significantly reducing travel disruptions. The National Immigration Administration (NIA) confirmed that this measure would streamline travel for those affected by lost or forgotten permits.
Additionally, the NIA has introduced a verification service linking travel and residence permits. Residents can now request proof of their permit’s status via an online platform or obtain an official document from any immigration office at or above the county level. The new system also allows government agencies and businesses serving Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan residents to integrate their systems with the NIA’s authentication platform, ensuring automatic verification of travel documents.
The move is part of China’s broader effort to make life easier for residents from these regions, with over 40 service measures already implemented across sectors like transportation, finance, and telecommunications. The NIA’s new measures aim to enhance immigration policies and improve service accessibility for Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan residents.
Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, emphasized that these measures would specifically benefit Taiwan residents, enabling easier access to study, work, and business opportunities on the mainland. Local officials in Hong Kong also welcomed the changes. Starry Lee Wai-king, a member of the Hong Kong Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, was quoted by RTHK News, expressing hope that further steps, such as the introduction of an electronic Home Return Permit, would further improve convenience for mainland document holders.
Victor Chan Chi-ho, a member of the Sai Kung District Council, told the Global Times that these new measures reflect China’s ongoing commitment to integrating Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan into the country’s broader development framework. He noted that the measures, particularly the instant issuance of temporary travel permits, offer greater peace of mind for frequent travelers between the regions.
Local resident Raymond Lam shared his satisfaction with the changes, emphasizing the efficiency and thoughtfulness behind the temporary electronic permits. He also praised the new verification service, which has simplified the application process for Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan residents.
The new measures are seen as a significant step toward enhancing the convenience of cross-border travel and offering more opportunities for residents to engage in various activities such as business, study, and trade within mainland China. Experts like Chu Kar-kin, a commentator and member of the Chinese Association of Hong Kong and Macao Studies, believe these changes will foster stronger connections between the regions and create a more seamless experience for residents.
According to official data, in 2024, Chinese immigration authorities issued 94.51 million permits for mainland residents traveling to and from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, along with 2.578 million travel permits for residents of those regions visiting mainland China. These new measures are expected to further boost the flow of travelers and facilitate smoother interactions between the regions.
