Update | Shenzhen travel guide: how to get a visa on arrival, which apps to download and cashless payment in the Chinese city

Shenzhen is a popular day trip for Hong Kong people, but those without a visa or the right to enter mainland China can be put off by the on-arrival visa process

We break down what you need to do before leaving Hong Kong, cashless payment when you’re there and the apps you’ll need to get by in the southern Chinese city

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To get to places in Shenzhen like Dongmen Pedestrian Street (above), Hong Kong residents without the right visa can apply for one on arrival. That’s not all you need to know - we break down the essentials for your trip from Hong Kong. Photo: Shutterstock

Erika Na

Published: 7:15am, 23 Oct 2023Updated: 10:51am, 20 Sep 2024

Corrected [11:37am, 23 Oct, 2023]

[11:37am, 23 Oct, 2023]
A previous version of this story stated visa processing fees for on-arrival visas that were out of date at the time of publishing.

For Hong Kong residents who have a Re-entry Permit, crossing the border into mainland China is relatively fuss-free.

For those who need a visa, it is a little more complicated, although visas on arrival are available, and generally approved quickly.

Obtaining entry to the Chinese city is not the only hurdle to overcome – cashless payment is another.

If you want to visit Hong Kong’s neighbouring city, read on for our how-to guide. We explain what you need to do before setting off, the on-arrival visa process and the Chinese apps you will need to get by.

WeChat is useful for electronic payments and for its mini-programs – apps within the app. Photo: Shutterstock

1. The on-arrival visa

This visa will allow you to stay in Shenzhen – and only Shenzhen – for five days, and the clock starts ticking from 00:00 the day following the entry date.