Hong Kong has relaxed e-Channel rules for frequent travellers, extending eligibility and streamlining the path through immigration, reports Visa HQ.
The Immigration Department announced that, starting 27 February, eligibility to enrol in the automated e-Channel programme would be extended to anyone who has entered Hong Kong via the international airport at least twice in the previous 24 months. By lowering the bar from the previous three arrivals within 12 months, the new requirements will offer easy entrance to many more frequent travellers.
Enrolment in the e-Channel system is free of charge, and the process has been simplified. Fingerprint capture is no longer required, enabling electronic passport holders to pass through by presenting the document, having their photo taken and signing a consent form.
Travellers with non-electronic documents will continue to follow the existing procedure.
[See more: Macao and Hong Kong lower age limit for automated checkpoint clearance]
Requirements for enrolling in e-Channel are straightforward and relatively flexible. All applicants must be 18 years of age or older, hold a valid travel document (and where appropriate, a valid multiple-visit visa) and have no adverse record in the HKSAR.
They must also meet any one of the following requirements: have visited via Hong Kong International Airport no fewer than two times in the past 24 months or hold a valid HKSAR Travel Pass, APEC Business Travel Card or Frequent Flyer Programme membership issued by an airline participating in the scheme.
Praised as a “low-cost, high impact” tweak by tourism boards and the meetings-and-incentives sector, the move is expected to enhance Hong Kong’s appeal as a convention hub. Travellers can expect tangible time savings, including avoiding arrival queues that can exceed 45 minutes during peak convention season.
Frequent travellers interested in enrolment can consult the Immigration Department e-Channel page for more details.
