Published on
January 17, 2026
Hong Kong and Macau are taking major steps to streamline cross-border travel with the introduction of a new and enhanced immigration clearance system. Starting January 2026, residents of both Special Administrative Regions (SARs) will benefit from automated clearance channels, reducing wait times and improving the overall travel experience between the two cities. This is part of the ongoing effort to facilitate smoother transit for millions of people who cross the border each year for business, leisure, and tourism.
The new immigration measures are a significant development for residents and tourists alike, as they will enhance the ease and efficiency of travelling across the Greater Bay Area. These improvements not only apply to local residents but also extend to tourists, offering a much more seamless experience for those visiting Hong Kong and Macau. With both cities working to strengthen their integrated travel infrastructure, this change is set to benefit anyone seeking to experience the best of both regions.
Key Changes to Immigration Clearance
Starting January 2026, the Hong Kong–Macau immigration system will adopt several key upgrades to expedite cross-border travel. One of the most notable changes is the lowering of the minimum age for automated clearance. Previously, only individuals aged 11 or older could use automated immigration channels. However, under the new system, residents aged 7 and up can now use the e-channel system, significantly reducing time spent at manual immigration counters. This is especially beneficial for families travelling together, as children aged 7 to 10 will also enjoy smoother border crossings.
The e-channel system, which has been widely praised for its convenience, uses biometric recognition to allow passengers to pass through immigration quickly. This includes systems like iris scanning, which has already been implemented at several key points in Macau and Hong Kong. The move is part of a broader goal to ensure faster, safer travel and to handle higher volumes of travellers without compromising on security.
Cross-Enrollment for Non-Residents
In another positive change, non-residents who meet the age requirement will now be able to pre-enrol for automated clearance systems at the other city’s border control points. This means that individuals from either Hong Kong or Macau who are not permanent residents will now have the option to use automated systems when travelling in the opposite region. This new system will help expedite travel for tourists and frequent travellers between the two cities.
Previously, only permanent residents could enjoy the benefits of the automated channels. By allowing non-permanent residents to enrol in these systems, both Hong Kong and Macau are making their borders more accessible for the growing number of tourists and business travellers who cross daily.
A Smarter, Faster Travel Experience
The improvements in immigration procedures are also tied to the ongoing expansion of the Greater Bay Area, which encourages closer integration of the region’s cities. With the new systems in place, travellers can expect a smoother, faster travel experience with reduced waiting times at checkpoints. This is not just beneficial for daily commuters between Hong Kong and Macau, but it also enhances tourist mobility in the region, particularly for those visiting the cities for short stays or connecting to further destinations.
For tourists planning their visits to the Greater Bay Area, this means they can easily move between Hong Kong and Macau, two of the region’s most popular destinations. Whether exploring Hong Kong’s bustling urban streets or enjoying the leisure and entertainment options in Macau, visitors will find that the new systems make their journeys far more efficient.
Improving Regional Connectivity for Tourists
These advancements are expected to bring significant benefits to regional tourism. As Hong Kong and Macau continue to attract international visitors, the smoother travel experience across borders is likely to boost tourism numbers, especially for multi-destination itineraries. Many tourists already combine visits to both cities, and with these upgrades, the travel between them will be easier than ever.
The simplified immigration process will also make it more convenient for business travellers, students, and families who regularly move between the two cities. The region’s enhanced connectivity supports both leisure tourism and business opportunities, reinforcing its status as a global travel hub.
Environmental Benefits and Streamlined Services
Another significant aspect of the new immigration system is its focus on reducing the environmental impact of cross-border travel. By simplifying and automating border procedures, paper usage will decrease, and carbon emissions associated with manual processing will be reduced, aligning with broader sustainability efforts. These initiatives are part of the two regions’ long-term vision for a more eco-friendly tourism industry.
As travel increases in the Greater Bay Area, these measures will help maintain the balance between growth and environmental sustainability, making it easier for international tourists to explore the best that Hong Kong and Macau have to offer.
What This Means for Future Travel in the Greater Bay Area
The updated immigration systems are part of the wider vision to integrate the Greater Bay Area, which aims to provide a seamless travel experience for those living and visiting the region. This initiative will continue to evolve, with both Hong Kong and Macau committed to improving infrastructure and services to accommodate the growing number of tourists and residents.
For now, the automated immigration clearance system will make travel faster and more efficient for everyone — whether it’s for business, leisure, or even just a quick getaway to explore Macau’s rich heritage and Hong Kong’s iconic skyline.
