Hong KongEntry rules Hong Kong Expands Immigration Facilitation Scheme for Invited Persons
Hong Kong has expanded its Immigration Facilitation Scheme for Invited Persons to include nationals from ASEAN, Central Asia, and GCC countries, effective October 1, 2026. This aims to enhance business visits and participation in major events.
Effective October 1, 2026, Hong Kong will broaden its Immigration Facilitation Scheme for Invited Persons, allowing nationals from ASEAN, Central Asia, and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to benefit from facilitated immigration arrangements. This expansion aims to promote business activities and participation in significant events within the region.
What Changes Are Being Made?
The Immigration Facilitation Scheme, originally launched on March 18, 2025, previously allowed five government departments to invite eligible ASEAN nationals. The recent expansion enables all government bureaus and departments to issue invitations, thereby increasing the number of eligible invitees.
- ASEAN Countries: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam.
- Central Asia Countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.
- GCC Countries: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
Who Is Affected?
The scheme targets individuals who can make significant contributions to Hong Kong’s economic development or are invited to attend important events. Eligible invitees will benefit from streamlined processes, including:
- One-stop electronic processing of applications.
- Relaxed eligibility requirements for self-service immigration clearance.
- Simplified visa application requirements when applicable.
- Access to self-service immigration clearance at Hong Kong control points.
Expansion of Short-term Visitor Activity Scheme
Additionally, as of the same date, Hong Kong has expanded its Immigration Facilitation Scheme for Visitors Participating in Short-term Activities in Designated Sectors (STV Scheme). The Social Welfare sector has been added, increasing the total number of covered sectors to 18. This scheme allows eligible foreign nationals invited by authorized organizations to enter Hong Kong and engage in approved activities without needing an employment visa.
Conclusion
The expansion of these immigration facilitation schemes is a significant step towards enhancing Hong Kong's attractiveness for international business and cultural exchange. Travellers from the specified regions should prepare for easier access to the territory for business and major events.