Hongkongers can enjoy faster border access under new mainland Chinese measures
Facial recognition clearance will be expanded across the border, while more mainland professionals will be granted longer stays in the city
Hongkongers will be able to use facial recognition fast lanes at more mainland Chinese checkpoints, while professionals from additional regions across the border will be granted longer stays in the city under new policies announced by national immigration authorities on Monday.
The Hong Kong government welcomed the new measures, saying it would continue to liaise closely with mainland authorities to facilitate exchanges through more innovative policies and enable the city to further integrate into national development.
Industry players said the facial recognition move could help reduce crowds when Hongkongers returned to the city during holidays, while the measures targeting mainland talent could make cross-border exchanges easier and assist professionals explore opportunities for international cooperation.
“It will provide convenience for Hongkongers crossing the border through land-based checkpoints, especially for the elderly,” said Timothy Chui Ting-pong, executive director of the Hong Kong Tourism Association.
“Checkpoints can be crowded during the holiday season … The move can shorten the immigration clearance times.”
According to the National Immigration Administration, Hong Kong residents with a mainland travel permit will, from Wednesday onwards, be able to cross the border through “intelligent” fast lanes at designated mainland ports in Shanghai, Xiamen, Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Zhuhai.