Hong Kong newborns to get mainland China entry permits on the spot at some border crossings
New arrangement at four border checkpoints will replace current five-working-day waiting time, but no implementation date set
Hong Kong newborns will soon be able to obtain permits to enter mainland China on the spot at four border crossings, replacing the current five-working-day waiting time.
The new arrangement was revealed in a letter by the exit and entry administration to a lawmaker on Wednesday, but the implementation date remained unclear.
The letter said parents of Hong Kong-born babies would be able to apply for permits issued on the same day for travelling to the mainland at the Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau crossings, as well as the piers at Shekou Cruise Centre and Fuyong Ferry Terminal.
Parents will have to provide the newborn’s identity document and birth certificate. If approved, a permit valid for one return trip between the city and the mainland over a three-month period can be collected on the spot.
Presenting the letter to the press, lawmaker Gary Chan Hak-kan, who also chairs the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong, said the policy addressed concerns raised by his party, which had received about seven to eight complaints about long waiting times for temporary mainland travel permits.
The one-time travel document is available to residents of all ages who do not have a valid multiple-entry permit. Applications are processed by China Travel Service (Hong Kong) and take at least five working days.
