China announces new talent visas for top GBA workers to head to Hong Kong, Macau

China’s National Immigration Administration announced on Thursday a new talent visa scheme for talented professionals in the Greater Bay Area to enter Hong Kong and Macau through multiple-entry visas from February 20.

Announcing the pilot program on its website, the administration said six categories of expertise were eligible to apply, including science and research, academia, health, law, and other higher management and professional people.

Eligible candidates will be able to apply for visas ranging from one to five years, depending on their category. The visa will permit holders multiple visits between the mainland, Hong Kong and Macau, staying no longer than 30 days each time.

The administration said they expected the new visa scheme to make it more convenient for GBA talents to engage in scientific research and academic exchanges and to promote the development of the GBA area.