As a U.S. citizen, you only need a Hong Kong visa if you intend to visit for more than 90 days. However, if you are planning to work or study in Hong Kong, or stay past the 90-day limit, then you will need a visa to Hong Kong.
As of 1997, Hong Kong became known as Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the People's Republic of China (PRC). However, it still has a high level of autonomy, which includes its own laws, currency and border control. There are extensive tourist facilities throughout the country and Hong Kong is a cosmopolitan and developed region.
The first step is to complete the application form ID 1003A. This form is available for download from the web site of the Immigration Department of The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. You'll also need a sponsor who lives in Hong Kong, knows you personally and is age 18 or older. Sponsors must complete form ID 1003B.
You will need to have a valid passport with blank pages for the visa stamp. Have a recent passport photograph taken to attach to page 1 of the application. You'll also need photocopies of travel documentation that shows your itinerary, and bank statements or other documents that prove that you are financially stable. For those coming for a leisure visit, provide a receipt from a travel company handling your trip. Business visitors need to submit proof for the reason for visiting such as a letter from your employer. Family visit visas need proof of your family relationship to a person residing in Hong Kong.
Your Hong Kong sponsor must also submit documentation. Individual sponsors, in addition to completing form ID 1003B, must provide a copy of their identify card. Business sponsors must also provide a copy of their business registration certificate.
You may submit your application and documents in person to the Chinese diplomatic and consular mission in your area. In the U.S., these offices are located in Washington DC, New York NY and San Francisco CA. You may also fax your application and all supporting documents to the Hong Kong office directly at (852) 2824 1133. Since the original signature on the application is required as well as your photograph, immediately mail these to the Hong Kong Immigration Department at No. 71, Di'anmen Xidajie, Xicheng District, Beijiing 10009, People's Republic of China.
The fee for a visa is currently $160.00. If you submit your application by mail, you must pay via either a cashier's check or bank draft payable to "The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region". You may also pay your fees at one of the U.S. based consular offices.
Get a visa for Hong Kong the quick and easy way.
It typically takes about 4 weeks to process a visa application, if all your paperwork is in order. It's a good idea to start the application process as soon as you know your travel dates.
A Hong Kong visa will open the door for those who wish to explore this unique and exciting country.
Visit often to learn more information from our updated Hong Kong Visa.
