Multiple-entry visas to Hong Kong for Shenzhen residents will come into effect from Sunday

Mainland Chinese authorities announced that from Sunday, more than 10 million Shenzhen residents will be able to apply for multiple-entry visas to Hong Kong, allowing them unlimited entry throughout the year, with stays of no more than seven days at any time.

From the same day, Shenzhen authorities will no longer accept visa applications for “one trip per week”, but according to the National Immigration Administration, holders of valid visas will still be able to use them.

Mainland authorities also announced on Friday a “one trip per week” policy for Zhuhai residents going to neighboring Macau from Jan. 1, as well as multiple-entry visas for the gambling hub for people staying in the Guangdong-Macau Deep Cooperation Zone in Hengqin.

The Hong Kong government said that under the renewed arrangements, more than 10 million Shenzhen residents will be able to visit the city, providing a new boost to the city’s tourism, dining and retail industries.

“I am very grateful to the relevant authorities of the central government for proactively examining and expediting the consideration (of the Hong Kong government’s proposal), which was implemented in a short time, bringing good news to (Hong Kong),” said Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu.

The administration said an inter-ministerial meeting was held on Thursday to ensure the smooth functioning of border crossings, tourist facilities and public transport.