Brian Geek
Hong Kong Passport Visa Free Countries
- Europe: HKSAR passport holders can enter most European countries without a visa for short stays. Notably, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (Etias), a new visa waiver program, is scheduled to launch in 2025. Once operational, travelers, including HKSAR passport holders, will need to apply online or through an app, paying a fee of €7 for authorization valid for up to three years or until their passport expires. Applicants under 18 and over 70 are exempt from the fee but must still apply. The application process typically takes minutes but can extend up to 30 days if additional checks are needed. The Etias does not guarantee entry but facilitates border control checks. Once operational, there will be a transitional period where entry will not be refused for those without Etias, as long as they meet other entry conditions. Travelers should apply for Etias before booking travel arrangements to avoid complications.
- Asia: Many Asian countries, including Japan, Malaysia, and Singapore, offer visa-free entry to HKSAR passport holders for varying durations. For instance, Japan allows a stay of up to 90 days without a visa.
- Americas: Countries such as Argentina and Brazil permit visa-free entry for HKSAR passport holders for stays up to 90 days.
- Oceania: Nations like Fiji and Vanuatu offer visa-free access, allowing stays of up to 4 months and 30 days, respectively.
- Africa: South Africa grants visa-free entry for up to 30 days, while Mauritius allows a stay of up to 90 days without a visa.
Important Considerations:
- Stay Duration: Visa-free periods vary by country. It’s crucial to verify the allowed duration of stay before traveling.
- Purpose of Visit: Visa exemptions typically apply to tourism and business visits. Other activities, such as employment, may require a specific visa.
- Entry Requirements: Some countries may have additional entry requirements, such as proof of sufficient funds, return tickets, or health insurance.
- Regulatory Changes: Visa policies can change. It’s advisable to consult the official website of the destination country’s embassy or consulate for the most current information before planning your trip.
What Countries Do Hong Kong Citizens Need A Visa For?
Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) passport holders enjoy significant travel freedom, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries. However, there are still several countries where Hong Kong citizens are required to obtain a visa prior to arrival.
Countries Requiring a Visa for Hong Kong Citizens:
While the exact list may vary and is subject to change, some notable countries that require Hong Kong passport holders to secure a visa before traveling include:
- United States
- India
- Vietnam
- Nigeria
- Russia
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Canada
- China (Mainland)
It’s important to note that visa requirements can change, and the duration of permitted stays may vary. Therefore, it’s advisable to consult the official website of the destination country’s embassy or consulate, or refer to the Hong Kong Immigration Department’s resources for the most current information.
Upcoming Changes:
Starting in 2025, the European Union will implement the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), a new visa waiver program. This system will require travelers from visa-exempt countries, including Hong Kong, to apply online for authorization before visiting 30 European countries. The authorization will cost €7 and will be valid for up to three years or until the passport expires. Applicants under 18 and over 70 are exempt from the fee but must still apply. The application process typically takes minutes but can extend up to 30 days if additional checks are needed. While ETIAS is not a traditional visa, it introduces a new requirement for Hong Kong travelers to Europe.
Recommendations:
Given the dynamic nature of international travel policies, it’s crucial for Hong Kong citizens to:
- Verify Current Visa Requirements: Always check the latest visa requirements for your destination well in advance of your travel dates.
- Stay Informed About Policy Changes: Be aware of upcoming changes, such as the ETIAS implementation in Europe, to ensure compliance with new travel authorization systems.
- Consult Official Sources: Rely on official government websites or contact the consulate or embassy of your destination country for accurate and up-to-date information.
By staying informed and prepared, Hong Kong travelers can navigate international visa requirements more effectively and enjoy smoother travel experiences.
Do Hong Kong Citizens Need Visa For America?
Typically, Hong Kong citizens are issued B1/B2 combination visas, which are valid for 10 years and allow multiple entries. Each entry permits a stay of up to six months, though the exact duration is determined by the U.S. immigration officer at the port of entry.
It’s important to note that the Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS) enrollment is not required for HKSAR passport holders. EVUS is mandatory only for individuals holding People’s Republic of China (PRC) passports.
To apply for a U.S. visa, Hong Kong citizens should complete the Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160) online, pay the applicable visa fee, and schedule an interview at the U.S. Consulate General in Hong Kong. Required documents typically include a valid passport, a recent photograph, proof of sufficient funds, and evidence of ties to Hong Kong to demonstrate intent to return after the visit.
Given that visa processing times can vary, it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel dates. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to the official website of the U.S. Consulate General in Hong Kong.
Do Hong Kong Citizens Need Visa For Europe?
Key Points:
- Current Status: HKSAR passport holders do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) in Schengen Area countries.
- Upcoming Changes: From 2025, an approved ETIAS authorization will be mandatory for Hong Kong citizens traveling to Europe. The ETIAS is not a visa but a pre-travel authorization aimed at enhancing security.
- Application Process: Travelers will need to complete an online application requiring personal and travel information, and pay a fee of €7. The authorization, once granted, will be valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
- Exemptions: Applicants under 18 or over 70 years old will be exempt from the application fee but must still obtain the ETIAS authorization.
Recommendations:
- Stay Informed: As the ETIAS implementation approaches, it’s important to stay updated on the latest travel requirements by consulting official sources such as the European Commission or the Immigration Department of Hong Kong.
- Plan Ahead: Once the ETIAS system is operational, ensure you apply for authorization well in advance of your travel dates to avoid any disruptions.
In summary, while traditional visas are not currently required for Hong Kong citizens traveling to Europe for short stays, the upcoming ETIAS authorization will be a necessary step starting in 2025
Countries That Gives Visa On Arrival For Hong Kong Passport Holders?
Asia:
- Bahrain
- Cambodia
- Indonesia
- Jordan
- Kuwait
- Laos
- Lebanon
- Maldives
- Nepal
- Saudi Arabia
- Sri Lanka
- Timor-Leste (East Timor)
- Myanmar
Africa:
- Ethiopia
- Rwanda
- Comoros
- Burundi
- Ghana
- Madagascar
- Mauritania
- Mozambique
- Seychelles
- Tanzania
- Togo
- Uganda
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
Oceania:
- Palau
- Samoa
- Tonga
- Tuvalu
South America:
- Bolivia
Please note that visa policies are subject to change. It’s advisable to verify the current entry requirements with the embassy or consulate of your destination country before making travel arrangements.
Traveling To Australia For Hong Kong Passport Holders?
As a holder of a Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) passport, you are required to obtain a visa before traveling to Australia. The most convenient option for short-term visits, such as tourism or business trips, is the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). The ETA allows multiple entries into Australia over a 12-month period, with each stay lasting up to three months.
Applying for an ETA:
- Eligibility: HKSAR passport holders are eligible to apply for an ETA.
- Application Process: Applications can be submitted online through the official Australian government channels or via the Australian ETA smartphone app.
- Requirements:
- A valid HKSAR passport with at least three months of remaining validity.
- Applicants must meet health and character requirements, including being free from diseases that may pose a public health risk and having no significant criminal record.
- Fees: A service charge of approximately AUD 20 applies to the ETA application.
Alternative Visa Options:
- Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417): If you are between 18 and 30 years old, you may be eligible for a Working Holiday Visa, allowing you to live and work in Australia for up to 12 months.
- Student and Temporary Skilled Visas: Since August 21, 2020, HKSAR passport holders can apply for five-year student and temporary skilled visas. After meeting the five-year stay requirement, eligible visa holders can apply for permanent residence under the same conditions as other nationalities.
Additional Considerations:
- Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from Australia.
- Health and Character Requirements: All applicants must meet specific health and character criteria, including being free from tuberculosis and having no substantial criminal convictions.
Related
- Guatemala Passport Visa Free Countries (2025)
- Guinea Passport Visa Free Countries (2025)
- Greece Passport Visa Free Countries (2025)
- Ghana Passport Visa Free Countries (2025)
- Georgia Passport Visa Free Countries (2025)
Conclusion
Please note that visa policies are subject to change. It’s advisable to verify the current entry requirements with the embassy or consulate of your destination country before making travel arrangements.