Hong Kong Eases Entry Process by Eliminating Arrival Cards for International Visitors

Arrival and departure cards for tourists to Hong Kong will no longer be required to be filled out as of October 16, 2024. Hong Kong distinguishes itself from other nations that are implementing digital travel authorizations, such as the UK, EU, and Thailand.

Hong Kong is different from other places in the world in that it has done away with the need for tourists to fill out arrival cards. With effect from October 16, 2024, this modification aims to streamline the immigration process for travelers by removing the requirement for paper slips.

Visitors from Hong Kong No Longer Need Arrival Cards

All visitors to Hong Kong will no longer need to fill out arrival or departure cards as of mid-October. According to the Hong Kong Immigration Department, travelers can now pass immigration without completing these forms, which will speed up and improve the efficiency of entrance.

This choice stands in stark contrast to the increasing number of nations that are requiring digital arrival cards. Several countries, like Singapore, Malaysia, and New Zealand, have already introduced digital passenger information systems.

Automatic Gates and Electronic Channel Enrollment

Even though official paper arrival cards are no longer in use, many travelers haven’t utilized them in a long time. The majority of tourists to Hong Kong have been utilizing the e-Channel system, which makes using automated gates for entry and exit seamless.

The majority of visitors leaving Hong Kong can use the automated gates, which further streamlines the departure procedure. It can be quite helpful for anyone entering the country through land borders, in particular, to register for the e-Channel. You can use the automated gates for faster clearance with this registration, which drastically cuts down on wait times.

The Global Rise of Digital Travel Authorizations

While Hong Kong has opted to do away with arrival cards completely, other nations are requiring Electronic Travel Authorizations (ETAs). These electronic devices improve security while streamlining the immigration procedure.

• United Kingdom: Expected to begin accepting applications in January 2025, with a £10 charge for applicants.
• European Union: In 2025, the EU plans to launch the European Travel Authorization and Information System (ETIAS).
• Thailand: In January 2025, it is anticipated to launch its ETA system.
• Japan: Getting ready to introduce the JETSA travel pass, which allows entry without a visa.

Australia’s Transition to Electronic Immigration

With the release of the Australia Travel Declaration, Australia is also welcoming digital immigration (ATD). The paper-based incoming passenger cards will be replaced by this technology, which will be tested on flights between Australia and New Zealand before being made available to all visitors.

Overview: Hong Kong Arrival Card

Upon entering the nation, visitors have to fill out a straightforward form called the Hong Kong Arrival Card. It collected personal data such as name, passport number, and itinerary. The total phase-out of these cards following the recent policy revisions has made entrance processes more straightforward for guests.

Hong Kong’s decision to abandon paper forms in favor of expedited immigration procedures—such as the e-Channel system and automated gates—demonstrates the city’s dedication to enhancing visitor experiences.

Final Thoughts

Given that many nations are moving toward digital systems and travel authorizations, this move might make Hong Kong a more desirable location for tourists looking for a simpler entrance process.