Hong Kong multiple-entry scheme ‘likely to cover more mainland cities this year’

A multiple-entry scheme granting Shenzhen residents unlimited trips to Hong Kong is likely to be expanded this year to cover travellers from other mainland Chinese cities, the city’s sole representative in the nation’s top legislative body has said, while calling for Beijing and Shanghai’s inclusion under the policy.

Delegate Starry Lee Wai-king of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee also said on Saturday that Hong Kong’s travel sector was an important element in promoting more international exchanges.

The promotion push was listed as a priority for Hong Kong by Beijing officials at China’s recently concluded key political meetings, known as the “two sessions”.

Last November, mainland authorities announced that more than 10 million Shenzhen residents could apply for visas allowing them an unlimited number of trips to Hong Kong within a one-year period, with each visit capped at seven days.

Lee said on Saturday that she expected the scheme to expand this year to more mainland cities, while calling for Beijing and Shanghai’s inclusion on the list.

“I personally think, beyond the cities within the Greater Bay Area that could be considered for the expansion of the multiple-entry visa scheme, Beijing and Shanghai could also be considered, as these cities have relatively large populations and they are quite far away from Hong Kong, which means that visitors can stay longer if they come to visit,” she said.