Tourist visa for Hong Kong
Overview
A tourist visa, also called a visit visa or entry permit for visit, is for short stays in Hong Kong for tourism, family visits or social purposes. Visitor status does not allow employment or study.
Who needs a tourist visa
Many passport holders can enter visa free for a limited period, while others must obtain a visit visa before travel. Use the official list to check your nationality’s rules and permitted length of stay. Indian nationals who visit visa free must complete online pre-arrival registration.
Visa-free entry and length of stay
Visa-free limits range from 7 to 180 days depending on nationality. The official table shows the exact allowance for each country or territory, for example 180 days for British citizens and 90 days for most EU passports and several others. Always confirm your own entry conditions before you travel.
Conditions of stay for visitors
Visitors must have enough funds for the trip and, unless in direct transit to Mainland China or Macao, must hold onward or return tickets. Visitors are not allowed to work, to establish or join a business, or to enter school as a student. Changing status after arrival is not normally permitted.
How to apply if you need a visa
You can apply through a Chinese diplomatic or consular mission, or submit your application to the Hong Kong Immigration Department by post or through a local sponsor. Indian nationals should apply to the Hong Kong Immigration Department directly. Applications should be lodged before travel. An e-Visa is issued upon approval and fee payment.
Documents required
Requirements vary by case, but you should expect to provide:
- A completed visit visa or entry permit application form and recent photograph
- A valid travel document
- Proof of travel plans and accommodation
- Evidence of sufficient funds
- If applying via a local sponsor, the sponsor’s information and supporting documents
See the Immigration Department guide and forms for full details and the correct form set for your situation.
Processing time
Visit and transit visa applications are normally processed in about four weeks after the Immigration Department receives all required documents. Incomplete files cannot be processed.
Extending a visit in Hong Kong
If there is a special or urgent need to stay longer, a visitor can apply online for an extension when the remaining limit of stay is within 14 days. Each case is considered on its own merits. Employment is not permitted while on visitor status.
Read more about our tourist visa extension service.
After approval: e-Visa
Hong Kong uses an e-Visa system. After approval you can pay online and download or print the notification slip for presentation on arrival or when required. The e-Visa replaces sticker labels.
How we help
- Confirm whether you are visa free or need a tourist visa
- Provide a tailored document checklist and correct application forms
- Review your itinerary, accommodation proof and financial evidence
- Prepare sponsor documents when a local sponsor is used
- File the application to the Immigration Department or guide submission through a consulate
- Monitor progress, handle follow-up enquiries and keep you updated
- Arrange e-Visa issuance and provide presentation instructions at arrival
Application procedure
- Share your travel dates, nationality and purpose of visit so we can confirm the right route and length of stay.
- Receive a tailored document checklist and the correct forms.
- Collect documents and complete the application.
- Submit through the appropriate channel and pay the application fee.
- Track status and respond to any Immigration Department requests.
- On approval, pay the issuance fee, download or print your e-Visa and carry it with your travel document.
