Published on
October 4, 2025
Significant upgrades to Hong Kong’s cross-border travel system will begin in mid-October 2025, enabling drivers to travel more freely without requiring special permits to access restricted roads. Over 100,000 cars heading to Macao and mainland China will benefit from this move, which attempts to simplify cross-border travel. By removing administrative obstacles, the modifications will facilitate Hong Kong drivers’ access to crucial border routes. Drivers can now anticipate a more convenient and effective trip thanks to the Transport Department’s announcement.
Changes in Cross-Border Travel Procedures
The Transport Department’s recent announcement reveals that starting from October 13, 2025, vehicles participating in the Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles scheme will no longer require a Closed Road Permit to travel on specific roads leading to border checkpoints. This exemption applies to designated routes such as the Shun Long Road, Chek Lap Kok Road, and the Tuen Mun-Chek Lap Kok Tunnel Road, as well as the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. Additionally, the exemption will be extended to the Shenzhen Bay Ad Hoc Quotas for Cross Boundary Private Cars starting October 20, 2025.
The decision is aimed at reducing the need for additional administrative steps for cross-border travellers. By removing the requirement for a special permit, the government hopes to make the travel experience more efficient for both commuters and businesses, saving time and effort.
How the Changes Impact Drivers
The new measures will allow vehicles that are already approved under the aforementioned travel schemes to easily access roads leading to border control points. Specifically, the exemption applies to routes that connect Hong Kong to the mainland and Macao, including key infrastructure like the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and Shenzhen Bay Port. Drivers will no longer have to worry about displaying a physical permit on their vehicle windscreen, thus removing a layer of bureaucracy that many found cumbersome.
Traffic signs will be placed at key locations to indicate that vehicles under the approved schemes are exempt from the road restrictions. This change is expected to significantly enhance the convenience for drivers, especially those making frequent cross-border journeys.
Existing Application Procedures
The eligibility criteria and application process for vehicles participating in the schemes remain unchanged. Drivers will still need to submit their applications to the Transport Department according to the existing procedures. This ensures that the approval process remains transparent and consistent with current regulations.
The government has confirmed that for those who currently hold a valid permit, the transition to the new system will be communicated through email. Until the exemption takes effect, drivers are still required to display their permits on the vehicle windscreen. After the specified implementation dates, the permit will no longer be required for display, although drivers are advised to retain their permits and approval letters for future reference.
Transition to Electronic Approval Letters
In addition to the physical permit exemption, the government has also moved towards a more digital approach. Starting from October 13 and 20, 2025, new applicants or those renewing their permits will be issued electronic approval letters instead of physical documents. These electronic letters can be downloaded and printed as proof of eligibility during border inspections, thus further reducing the reliance on paper-based procedures.
This transition to electronic approval letters is part of the broader move towards digitization in Hong Kong’s public services. It not only reduces the administrative burden but also aligns with global trends towards digital record-keeping, making the process smoother and more accessible for drivers.
Legislative Support for the New Measures
To ensure the legality of these changes, the Legislative Council has passed the necessary amendments to the traffic regulations. These changes were confirmed by a government notice published on October 3, 2025. The new regulations allow for a broader range of vehicles to travel on the designated routes without the need for special permits. With these amendments, the Hong Kong government has made it clear that the measures are fully supported by legal frameworks, ensuring both compliance and transparency in their implementation.
Enhancing Cross-Border Travel
For drivers, companies, and tourists alike, the modifications to Hong Kong’s cross-border travel system are a welcome development. The government is laying the groundwork for a smoother and more convenient travel experience by eliminating the requirement for special permits to access restricted roads. Drivers can now anticipate a simpler border crossing whether they are travelling for work, pleasure, or daily commuting. These adjustments represent a significant step toward improving regional connectivity and economic growth as Hong Kong continues to cultivate closer ties with Macao and mainland China.
Drivers can visit the official Transport Department website to apply for the schemes and to learn more about the updates.
