The recent travel permits issued to permanent residents of *Hong Kong* mark a significant milestone in the regional dynamics. In three months, around 20,000 new authorizations have been granted, thus facilitating travel to *Mainland China*. This phenomenon is not limited to a simple administrative act but raises crucial questions about the identity and integration of foreign passport holders.
The expectations surrounding this new issue transcend simple mobility. The new rules evoke unprecedented aspirations and opportunities both economically and socially. These permits promise to accelerate trade and cultural exchanges while strengthening the sense of belonging of recipients to the growth of the *Greater Bay Area*. In the face of these upheavals, a worry persists regarding the rights and benefits associated with these new authorizations.
Overview |
Approximately 20,000 new multi-entry travel permits have been issued to permanent residents of Hong Kong in the last three months. |
Currently, around 33,000 applications are still pending approval. |
Holders of these permits have made 53,000 entries and exits to the mainland between July and mid-October. |
Approximately 55,000 non-Chinese permanent residents have made appointments to apply for permits. |
This measure has reduced border control times and met travel needs of users for business, academic, and cultural reasons. |
Permit holders experience a strengthening of their identity and better integration into the Greater Bay Area project. |
Although the permits facilitate travel, new holders cannot yet open bank accounts or purchase train tickets on the mainland. |
Travel Permits and Recent Statistics
The central authorities have issued approximately 20,000 new multi-entry travel permits to permanent residents of Hong Kong holding foreign passports in the last three months. Currently, around 33,000 applicants are still waiting for their approval. These figures reflect an initiative aimed at simplifying exchanges between Hong Kong and Mainland China.
Activity of Permit Holders
During the period between July and mid-October, holders of the new permits made 53,000 entries and exits to Mainland China. This statistic reflects a significant increase in travel, meeting the growing needs of residents traveling for professional, academic, and cultural reasons. The first beneficiaries welcome this measure with satisfaction, noting a significant reduction in waiting times at the borders.
Reactions and Social Impacts
Chris Tang Ping-keung, the Secretary for Security, stated that the first candidates for the new permits expressed great enthusiasm. This development has allowed many holders to satisfy their need to travel frequently to the mainland. The feedback collected reveals that some recipients feel a reinforced sense of identity thanks to this measure, enabling them to increase their participation in the development of the Greater Bay Area.
Limitations of the Current System
Despite the undeniable advantages, gaps remain. Holders of the new permits still face difficulties in opening bank accounts, requesting mobile SIM cards, or purchasing train tickets in China. These privileges remain reserved for those holding travel permits for Chinese citizens.
Economic Context and Future of Permits
Approximately 270,000 permanent residents of Hong Kong could potentially benefit from these new permits. The five-year validity of these documents, with modest fees, makes it an attractive option for many residents. The initiative is part of a broader framework aimed at strengthening economic ties between Hong Kong, Macau, and several major cities in Mainland China.