Visa and Entry Requirements

Essential information for entering Hong Kong, including visa requirements, application procedures, health regulations, and important distinctions between Hong Kong and Mainland China entry.

Visa and Entry Requirements

Essential information for entering Hong Kong

Important – Visa letter requests

Our automated visa letter request system is not yet online due to unforeseen circumstances. In the meantime, please follow the manual visa letter request process outlined below.

For visa letter requests, please email Jianan (25075795r@connect.polyu.hk) with the following information:

  • Paper title
  • Paper ID
  • Full name of the author
✈️

Visa-Free Entry

Many nationalities can visit Hong Kong visa-free for periods ranging from 7 to 180 days, depending on the passport.

Because allowances vary, please verify your specific eligibility and permitted length of stay on the Hong Kong Immigration Department website before you travel.

Official Resources:

If You Require a Visa

📋 Application Type

You should apply for a Visit/Transit visa for the purpose of attending an academic conference.

🏢 How to Apply

Applications can be submitted:

  • Directly to the HKSAR Immigration Department
  • Via your nearest Chinese Embassy/Consulate that handles HKSAR visa applications

⏱️ Processing Time

Processing typically takes about 4–6 weeks, so apply early.

Hong Kong does not generally issue visas on arrival, so arrange your visa in advance if required.

📄 Commonly Required Documents

  • Passport valid for at least six months beyond your stay
  • Completed application forms with a recent photo
  • Proof of travel and accommodation
  • Financial proof
  • Conference invitation/registration confirmation

🔗 Official Application Resources

⚠️

Important: Separate Immigration Systems

Hong Kong and Mainland China have separate immigration systems.

  • • A Mainland China visa does not grant entry to Hong Kong
  • • Permission to enter Hong Kong does not allow entry to Mainland China

If you plan to visit Mainland cities (e.g., Shenzhen) during your trip, you must obtain a separate Mainland Chinese visa.

Health and Vaccination Requirements

💉 Vaccination Requirements

Health and vaccination requirements are minimal.

  • A yellow fever vaccination certificate is only necessary if you are arriving from, or transiting for more than 12 hours through, a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
  • Otherwise, no specific vaccines are mandated for entry to Hong Kong.
  • Routine immunizations are recommended.

📋 On Arrival

You may be asked to show:

  • Proof of onward/return travel
  • Accommodation details
  • Sufficient funds

Important: Ensure your passport is valid for the full duration of your stay (six months validity is recommended), and do not overstay the permission indicated on your entry slip or e-gate record.

🏥 Health Updates

For public health updates, visit the Centre for Health Protection.

📢

Latest Policies and Updates

For the latest policies and any updates, always consult the HKSAR Immigration Department directly:

Visit HK Immigration Department

Need Assistance?

If you have any visa or entry-related issues, please contact the Local Arrangement Chairs for assistance.

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