WSDM 2027 Visa Information

Visa-Free Entry

Nationals of about 170 countries and territories may visit Hong Kong visa-free for periods ranging from 7 to 180 days. Eligibility and length of stay depend on nationality and travel document type. Examples include:

• United States ordinary passport holders, Canada, and European Union member states: up to 90 days
• British citizens: up to 180 days; other British nationality categories have different arrangements
• Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand: up to 90 days
• India: up to 14 days, normally subject to successful online pre-arrival registration (PAR). Exemptions apply; see the official PAR requirements.

Check the official visa requirements by nationality and travel document before travelling. Visa-free eligibility does not guarantee admission.

Travel Documents and Conference Attendance

Carry a valid travel document, sufficient funds, and onward or return tickets where required. Confirm the document validity requirements for your circumstances; a six-month rule should not be assumed to apply to every visitor.

Visitors may generally attend short-term seminars or business meetings. Giving a speech or presentation is subject to additional conditions, including remuneration and event-duration limits. Refer to the permissible activities for visitors for details.

If You Require a Visa or Entry Permit

Obtain the appropriate visa or entry permit before travelling if your nationality, travel document, or intended stay requires one. Mainland, Macao, Taiwan, and overseas Chinese residents should consult the separate arrangements below.

Electronic Visa Application

Online services allow applicants to submit a visa application and supporting documents, pay the relevant fee after approval, and download the e-Visa. See the electronic visa application services for the applicable application route.

Application Information	Visit / Transit visa and entry permit applications
Required Documents	Application details, a recent photograph, travel document copy, financial evidence, and proof of the proposed visit. Sponsor forms and supporting documents may also apply. Follow the official document checklist; additional evidence may be requested.
Processing Time	Normally about four weeks after all required documents and information have been received. As a conference planning recommendation, allow at least two months before travel.
Visa Fee	Ordinary visit visa: HKD 330. Transit visa: HKD 170. Check the current official fee table for the applicable category.

Mainland and Other Chinese Residents

Mainland residents visiting Hong Kong generally need a valid Exit-Entry Permit for Travelling to and from Hong Kong and Macao (往来港澳通行证) with an appropriate valid exit endorsement (签注), issued by the relevant Mainland authorities.

Separate provisions apply to Macao, Taiwan, and overseas Chinese residents. Consult the official entry arrangements for your residence and travel document.

Transit Arrangements

PRC passport holders transiting through Hong Kong to or from another country or territory may be granted up to seven days on each landing without obtaining an entry permit in advance. This is subject to normal immigration requirements, including valid entry facilities for the destination and a confirmed onward booking for the overseas journey.

This is not a general seven-day exemption for all travellers. Other passport holders should check the visa and transit requirements, including any restrictions that apply even when remaining in the airport transit area.