The government of Hong Kong has significantly increased fees for work visas.
As part of the new two-tier system, people who want to stay for more than 180 days are required to pay a total of 1,900 Hong Kong dollars ($242), which consists of an application fee of HK$600 and a HK$1,300 issuance fee, VisaGuide.World reports.
For stays of 180 days or less, there is an issuance fee of HK$600 as well as a HK$600 application fee. Previously, the total visa cost was just HK$230 for everyone, so the price for stays for long periods increased more than eight times.
The fee was revised by the Immigration Department at the end of February.
I used to think Hong Kong authorities were efficient and that kept fees low.
In Japan, internationals pay a total of 6,000 yen ($42) to renew their visas and also to extend their stay.
At present, Hong Kong is struggling with budget problems due to a decrease in land-scale income from a weak real estate market. Last year, it had a deficit of a total of HK$80.3 billion for the fiscal year 2024.
Hong Kong is dealing with budget problems due to a drop in land sale income from a weak real estate market. In 2024, it had a deficit of HK$80.3 billion, the third year in a row with a shortfall. To save money, the government is cutting civil service jobs, reviewing subsidies, and raising visa fees.
Hong Kong Nationals Granted Visa-Free Entry to Qatar
In May this year, holders of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) passports were able to travel to Qatar for visa-free stays for up to 30 days. The decision was confirmed by the Chief Executive of Hong Kong, John Lee.
The Chief Executive of Hong Kong said that during his visit to Qatar, various series of agreements were reached between both countries in different fields, among them investment, trade, and tourism.
Lee said that both sides are also making progress in long-term collaboration.
Together, they will boost our trade ties and enhance our customs clearance efficiency, creating smoother, more convenient links for our companies.
Authorities in Hong Kong have intensified their efforts in a bid to further facilitate the travel process.
