Key Highlights
- Latest Facts and News:
- Do Indians Need a Visa for Hong Kong?
- Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR) Process for Hong Kong Visa for Indians
- Hong Kong Visa for Indians Types for Passport Holders
- Hong Kong Visa on Arrival for Indian Passport Holders
- Visa Application Process for Hong Kong Visa for Indians
- Travelling to Hong Kong: What Indians Need to Know
- Conclusion
For travellers from all over the world, Hong Kong–one of the most dynamic cities in the world — is no stranger to the international travel industry. As an Indian passport holder, you’ve already been used to the hassles of visa processing, but even this is further complicated by the unpredictable change in immigration kinks. If you are trying to plan a trip to this city of excitement, you must know the latest visa requirements, the application process, and travel tips. On the other hand, if you’re interested in immigrating to Hong Kong, we have a guide for that as well!
As of December 24, 2024, the Hong Kong visa for Indians has changed visa regulations for travellers from India with effect from that date. Under the new rule, Indian nationals are allowed to visit Hong Kong without a visa for no more than 14 days upon arrival if they have registered their travel with Pre Arrival Registration (PAR). It is another of Hong Kong’s attempts to streamline its visa system. If you are travelling for tourism, business, or education purposes, this guide will help you gain your visa to Hong Kong.
Latest Facts and News:
Here are some of the latest facts and news regarding Hong Kong visa for Indians:
-
Indian Nationals are able to visit Hong Kong as a visa-free visit for 14 days, so long as the Pre Arrival Registration (PAR) application has been made and successful by December 24, 2024.
-
Indian travellers can now streamline the PAR online process with the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
-
Statistics also reveal that the footfall of Indian tourists increased by a whopping 7.32% in Hong Kong in early 2024.
-
Indian business travellers and students will find new e-visa options in Hong Kong.
-
Next year, the HKSAR government will announce further steps to simplify visa procedures for Indian nationals, according to a June 2019 announcement.
Do Indians Need a Visa for Hong Kong?
Do Indians need Visa for Hong Kong? Indian passport holders are not required to obtain a visa for a short stay of up to 14 days. But this is provided; it depends on filling in the Pre-Arriving Registration (PAR) process. When approved, the PAR lets you go to Hong Kong for a trip of any kind without the need for a visa. However, it is important to understand that the 14 days allowed for visa-free entry will only apply to a 14-day stay.
Indian nationals must complete the simple, free online registration system (PAR) before departure. After you register, you will get a confirmation by which you must present yourself when you go to Hong Kong.
The process is part of the Hong Kong government's efforts to ease entry procedures, allowing people from India to come through more easily without a Hong Kong visa for Indians.
Also Read: Staff Nurse Jobs: Jobs, Opportunities & Career Growth
Key Points to Remember:
-
If you are an Indian who has approval for the Personal Arrival Visa (PAR), you may stay visa-free in Hong Kong for 14 days as an Indian national.
-
So that you don't get stuck applying for PAR, ensure you apply early.
-
This only pertains to short stays in the country (tourism, business) of less than 14 days.
Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR) Process for Hong Kong Visa for Indians
Indian nationals seeking to enter without a Hong Kong visa for Indians for short stays have to do the Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR). It is online, convenient, and efficient. To complete your registration, follow these steps:
1. Visit the Official Website: You must go to the Hong Kong Immigration Department’s website to file a Pre-Arrangement Registration.
2. Fill in Personal Details: You need to provide personal information, such as passport details, travel dates, and address in Hong Kong.
3. Submit Supporting Documents: You may have to provide them with documents such as a return ticket or proof of accommodation, depending on why you’re travelling.
4. Submit Application: Attendees can review your details on where to submit your application. Don’t get delayed by ensuring all information is accurate.
5. Wait for Approval: After submitting the form, you will get a confirmation email stating when your registration is approved. This confirmation must be printed and carried with you during your trip.
This entire process typically takes 1 to 3 working days. It’s a quick and efficient way to ensure your eligibility for entry without a Hong Kong visa for Indians.
Important Documents for PAR (Performance Appraisal Report ):
-
A valid Indian passport with at least 6 months of validity.
-
A confirmed return flight ticket.
-
Proof of accommodation in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Visa for Indians Types for Passport Holders
If you want to stay here more than 14 days or wish to come for some other reason, you’ll have to apply for an appropriate type of visa. Visas are available for tourism, business, employment, and study in Hong Kong. Below, we will mention the visas that are most frequent with Indian citizens:
Types of Hong Kong Visa for Indians:
-
Tourist Visa: For leisure trips to the city or stays more than 14 days.
-
Business Visa: If you want to do business activities in Hong Kong.
-
Employment Visa: For people wishing to work in Hong Kong.
-
Student Visa: To those who are coming to Hong Kong to study.
Also Read: Annexure C for Passport: Latest Filling and Submission Guide
Tourist Hong Kong Visa for Indians
Indian travellers coming to Hong Kong for more than 14 days will have to apply for a tourist visa. It’s a two-step system; you make an application to the Hong Kong Immigration Department along with the required documents and processing fees.
Required Documents:
-
A completed visa application form
-
A valid passport with a minimum of six months' validity is required.
-
Passport-size photographs.
-
If coming to the UK from Hong Kong, proof of accommodation for any time in Hong Kong (hotel bookings, confirmation letter by a relative or friend).
-
Flight reservation details.
-
Funding your stay in Hong Kong.
-
Processing Time: Generally, the processing time for a tourist visa is usually 4 - 7 business days. But doing so is always a respectful thing to do.
Business and Employment Hong Kong Visa for Indians
A specific visa is required for Indians wanting to work or carry out business in Hong Kong. Visa to visit can be of this type for business purposes, to establish our new business and employment.
1. Business Hong Kong Visa for Indians:
Indian nationals can enter Hong Kong on a business visa, for example, by attending meetings, doing research, or seeking investment opportunities.
2. Employment Hong Kong Visa for Indians:
If you have secured employment in Hong Kong, an employment visa is required. An employer must sponsor the employee and the applicant must meet specific eligibility criteria of educational qualification and work experience.
3. Documents for Business and Employment Hong Kong Visa for Indians:
-
Valid passport.
-
Filled out the completed visa application form.
-
Employment visa.
-
Business activities proof or invitation letters (business visa).
-
Educational certificates and work experience documents must be included (for visa).
-
Processing Time: Business and employment visas take anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks to process.
Hong Kong Visa on Arrival for Indian Passport Holders
One would have thought that the place would have a Hong Kong visa on arrival for Indian Passport holders, but that is not true. Until now, the Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR) system has given similar convenience for stays of 14 days or fewer. This is why any Indian national requiring less than 14 days of visa-free travel for tourism or business does not need to apply for one beforehand.
Visa Application Process for Hong Kong Visa for Indians
For those staying longer than 14 days and for any reason other than tourism or business, you will have to submit for a visa to the Hong Kong Immigration Department. There are two ways you can get them done online: you can drop your application personally at the nearest consulate or a visa center.
Key Steps for Application for Hong Kong Visa for Indians:
1. Choose the Right Visa: If you are coming here for tourism, business, employment, or education, you choose the appropriate visa type depending on that.
2. Prepare Your Documents: We need to gather your passport, visa application form photos, etc.
3. Submit Your Application: You can either apply online or by hand.
4. Pay Fees: Pay the applicable visa fees.
5. Wait for Processing: If you submit your visa application, you will get a decision.
Visa Fees and Processing Time for Hong Kong Visa for Indians
If you are applying for a Hong Kong visa, then you need to pay the cost of the visa, and its processing also depends on the type of visa you are applying for. For example, a tourist visa is around HKD 190, or about INR 1,900, and business and employment visas are slightly higher.
Average Processing Times:
-
Tourist Visa: 4-7 business days.
-
Business Visa: 6-8 weeks.
-
Employment Visa: 6-8 weeks.
Also Read: Opportunity to Work Overseas: Guide to International Careers
Tips for a Successful Hong Kong Visa for Indians Application
Here are some tips for a successful Hong Kong visa for Indians Application:
1. Apply Early: Make sure to put in your application well in advance and that there are no delays or any problems at the last minute.
2. Check for Updates: Learn about the latest information to know if the visa rules may change.
3. Provide Accurate Information: Delayed or rejection is very possible for any discrepancy or error in your application.
4. Follow the Checklist: Make certain that all documents are complete and submitted.
Travelling to Hong Kong: What Indians Need to Know
It’s not just visa requirements that you need to understand when travelling to Hong Kong. Here are some important tips for Indian travellers:
-
Currency: The Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) is used as currency in Hong Kong. Make sure you emphasize ahead of time to exchange money or withdraw money from local ATMs.
-
Language: However Cantonese is still the main language, English is also spoken, mainly for business and tourist purposes.
-
Local Customs: Hong Kong is famous for its respect for privacy and professionalism. Locals get cheeky in their behaviour, so I don’t remember being reminded to be mindful of local etiquette, especially in business settings.
-
Travel Insurance: Ideally, you should have travel insurance that covers unexpected health or travel-related issues.
Also Read: What is RPO in Passport? Experts Complete Guide
Conclusion
Finally, it is to say, Hong Kong provides many options for a visiting Hong Kong visa for Indians and is also a very accessible and exciting destination. No matter if it’s for a short-term visit or an extended stay for work or study, you need to know the rules for visas and the PAR system for short stays, plus the kind of papers you’ll need.
Follow the steps in this guide and contact TerraTern, and you can have a smooth start to your Hong Kong trip.