Hong Kong is one of the most popular international tourist destinations for Indian citizens. So much so that there was a 7.32% rise in Indian tourist footfall between the months of January and March 2019 alone.  (1) 

Now, if you are among the ones planning a visit to Hong Kong in the near future, it is crucial to first update yourself about the most vital document that you will require to travel to the country – the visa!

No, Indian passport holders do not need a visa to travel to Hong Kong if they are visiting the country for a duration of 14 days or less. In this case, Indian citizens have the provision for visa-free entry in Hong Kong through Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR). 

However, if one wishes to extend their stay in Hong Kong for more than 14 days, he/she will have to apply for a visa.

No, Hong Kong does not offer the facility of visa on arrival for Indian passport holders. Indians can gain entry into the country only if they have completed Pre-Arrival Registration formalities.  

Further, those wishing to stay in the country for longer than 14 days have to apply for an immigration visa directly through the Hong Kong Immigration Department.

It is mandatory for Indian citizens visiting Hong Kong for a period of less than 14 days to complete a pre-arrival registration (PAR) online to enter the country. Through a one-time PAR Indian passport holders can enjoy the facility of multiple entries to Hong Kong within a period of 6 months, provided that they do not remain in the country for more than 14 days at a stretch. 

Individuals must enrol and register themselves in PAR (Pre-Arrival Registration) in lieu of the Hong Kong visa for Indian citizens, and present the slip that is generated upon successful registration to the immigration department to gain entry in Hong Kong.

Indian citizens included in the categories mentioned below do not require PAR to visit Hong Kong, provided they meet the normal immigration requirements: 

• Indians with an official passport. 

• Indians with a diplomatic passport. 

• Those who hold the United Nations Laissez-Passer (individuals visiting Hong Kong for official United Nations business). 

• Individuals enrolled in e-channel service. 

• Honk Kong travel pass holders.

No, travel insurance is not mandatory to obtain a visa for Indian travelers visiting Hong Kong. However, it’s highly recommended. While you don’t need it for your visa application, travel insurance can be a lifesaver in case of unexpected situations like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage.

Considering Hong Kong’s high healthcare and living costs, having insurance ensures that you’re protected financially and can enjoy your trip worry-free. So, while it’s not a requirement, it’s definitely a smart choice!

For Pre Arrival Registration for Hong Kong, Indian citizens will have to satisfy the following requirements: 

• They should possess an Indian passport which must be valid for at least a period of 6 months from the time of entry to Hong Kong.

• Have a valid email ID to receive the notification slip.

For Indian citizens traveling to Hong Kong for short trips (up to 14 days), the Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR) is a quick and hassle-free process. Here’s how to apply for PAR:

Visit the Hong Kong Immigration Department Website:

Start by heading to the official Hong Kong Immigration Department’s website. This is the only place you can complete the PAR, so make sure you’re on the correct site.

Fill Out the PAR Registration Form:

On the website, locate the PAR registration form and enter all the required details. This includes your passport information, travel dates, and personal details. Ensure everything is correct before submitting.

Receive Instant Registration Results:

Once you submit your details, the system will process your information immediately. You’ll see the registration result displayed on the website—if all is in order, you’ll be notified instantly that your PAR is approved.

Print the Notification Slip:

After approval, download and print the notification slip on a clean, white A4-size paper. This document is crucial as you’ll need to present it upon arrival in Hong Kong.

Present the Notification Slip at Immigration:

When you land in Hong Kong, take the printed slip to the immigration counter. The officers will verify your details and grant you entry. You can now enjoy your stay in Hong Kong!

This requirement has to be satisfied by any Indian citizen who wishes to stay in Hong Kong for a period longer than 14 days and has to obtain a visa. This is also applicable to those whose PAR request has been rejected.  

The visa application has to be made directly to the Hong Kong Immigration Department and the visa fee of HKD190 has to be paid via a bank draft. 

To apply for the visa, there are 2 separate sets of submissions which are necessary. The documents to be submitted by the applicant and the applicant’s sponsor residing in Hong Kong. 

The documents to be submitted by the applicant for Hong Kong visa include: 

• Filled-in application form along with a cover letter.

• Proof of relationship with your sponsor residing in Hong Kong.

• Financial detail of an applicant, including their monetary account and related details, tax returns, salary slips, etc.

• Copy of the opening and last page of the applicant’s passport.

• Flight ticket or similar transportation detail.

In turn, the visitor’s sponsor has to submit the following documents to obtain the visa approval: 

• A copy of the invitation letter.

• Filled-in application form.

• Copy of sponsor’s passport.

• Financial statements of the sponsor, including monetary accounts, tax returns, etc.

Residential proof of the sponsor in Hong Kong. 

Indian citizens have to make the Hong Kong visa application directly to the country’s immigration department.

To do so, follow the steps mentioned below: 

Download and Print the Hong Kong Visa Application Form:

Head over to the Hong Kong Immigration Department’s website, download the visa application form, and print it. Be sure to fill in all the necessary details accurately, including your personal information, purpose of visit, and travel plans.

Gather and Attach Required Documents for Hong Kong Visa:

Once the form is filled out, collect all supporting documents. This includes a passport-size photograph, proof of finances, flight details, and a copy of your passport. Make sure to have everything in order as incomplete submissions can delay your application.

Mail Your Application to Hong Kong:

Send your completed application form and documents to the Hong Kong Immigration Department by post or courier. The mailing address is: Receipt and Despatch Sub-unit, Immigration Department - 2/F, Immigration Tower, 7 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong.

Pay the Hong Kong Visa Fee:

You’ll need to make the payment of Hong Kong visa fee via bank draft. Include the draft with your mailed application to ensure your visa is processed.

Wait for Approval of the Hong Kong Visa for Indians:

Once your application is submitted, processing typically takes around 3-4 weeks. Upon approval, the visa label will be mailed back to you, which you'll need to affix to your passport before your trip.

For more enquiries, you can contact the Hong Kong Immigration Department at:

• Email – enquiry@immd.gov.hk 

• Telephone - +852-2824-611 

The processing time for a Hong Kong visa for Indian citizens can vary based on the method of application. If you apply directly through the Hong Kong Immigration Department, the typical processing time is around 4 to 6 weeks. This applies for general visit visa. 

For specific types of visas or during peak travel seasons, the processing time may extend slightly. It’s recommended to apply well in advance of your planned travel to account for any delays.

Pre-arrival registration:

Even if you don't need a visa, you'll need to complete a PAR form before your trip.

Visa validity:

The validity of your visa depends on the purpose of your visit and the type of visa you obtain.

Multiple entries:

Some visas allow for multiple entries into Hong Kong within a certain period.

Dependent visas:

If you're bringing your family, they might need dependent visas.

Declaration of goods:

Be aware of customs and excise regulations, particularly concerning prohibited and dutiable goods.

If your Hong Kong visa application is rejected, don't worry! It's not uncommon. There are a few things you can do:

Review reasons:

Try to understand the reasons for the rejection. Was it missing documents, insufficient funds, or something else?

Re-apply:

If you believe the reasons for rejection can be addressed, you can re-apply. Ensure you have all necessary documents and address the issues raised in the previous application.

Consult embassy:

If you're unsure about the reasons or how to proceed, it's always a good idea to contact the Hong Kong embassy or consulate in India. They can provide specific guidance and advice.

Here are some tips to increase your chances of a successful Hong Kong visa application:

Complete the application accurately:

Ensure all information is correct and up-to-date.

Provide supporting documents:

Submit all required documents, such as proof of income, accommodation, and travel itinerary.

Be honest:

Avoid providing false or misleading information.

Plan your trip carefully:

Make sure your travel plans are well-organized and feasible.

Apply in advance:

Give yourself plenty of time to process your application.

Yes, you can extend your Hong Kong visa under certain circumstances. If your visa is nearing expiration and you need to stay longer, you can submit an extension application to the Immigration Department. However, it's important to check the specific requirements and deadlines for visa extensions.

So, here is everything you, as an Indian passport holder, should know about the Hong Kong visa application. 

But, have you thought of purchasing travel insurance?

Though it is not mandatory for Indians to have a travel insurance policy in place before visiting Hong Kong, it is advisable to have one. 

For instance, purchasing a Hong Kong travel insurance from Digit will impart you with the following benefits:

Medical Evacuation and Cover:

Medical emergencies can happen at any time and point during your trip. Consequently, when an accident occurs, both medical evacuation, as well as treatment, are necessary; something which is completely covered under Digit’s travel insurance.

Trip Cancellation Costs:

In case a trip gets cancelled, you can avail compensation for the pre-booked non-refundable expenses that you had already incurred for the trip.

Luggage Loss/Delay:

Luggage loss or delay is a common occurrence in transit. Either way, it is a financial loss for the owner which can amount quite high. If such an incident occurs, Digit offers financial protection for these losses.

Liability Costs:

If you end up injuring someone or damaging a property that belonged to someone else in an accident while taking a road trip through Hong Kong, your insurance policy will cover the liability costs. It will further cover the damage to the rental car due to the accident.

Adventure Sports:

Injuries due to any adventure sport (for one day) are also covered under travel insurance policies, allowing you to indulge in every desire.

Check out the below-mentioned benefits we give you with Travel Insurance for Hong Kong:

Zero Deductible:

You don’t pay at all from your pocket, we will take care of everything.

Cover that knows how you travel:

Our coverage includes activities such as scuba diving, bungee jumping and skydiving (provided the duration is one day). 

Smartphone-enabled claims process :

It’s all smart with a smartphone-enabled claim process. No paperwork, no running around. Just upload your documents when you make a claim.

Immediate Monetary Compensation for Flight Delays:

If your flight is delayed for more than 6 hours, we give you an immediate compensation of ₹500-1000.

Worldwide Support:

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