China Launches Digital Travel Permits for HK, Macau

China has introduced a new digital system to facilitate travel for non-Chinese residents of Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan by allowing them to apply for a seven-day temporary travel permit online, effective from March 20, 2025. This move simplifies the existing process, which required in-person applications, by enabling permits to be linked with residence permits for verification, and providing options for electronic permits if the original is lost, damaged, or forgotten. These permits are intended for short-term visits, including tourism, investment, and family visits. The National Immigration Administration has integrated the process with a mobile app to prevent travel delays, offering real-time verification through transport authorities. The policy aims to improve travel convenience and has been welcomed by local officials, who see it as a step towards enhancing cross-border travel convenience. The measures also include secure handling of personal information and do not require residents to relinquish their home residency status.