Hong Kong Extends Visa-Free Stay for APEC Business Travel Card Holders to 90 Days
Summary
The Hong Kong Immigration Department has announced a significant extension to the visa-free period of stay for eligible APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) holders. Effective November 1, 2026, individuals who have obtained pre-clearance from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) will be permitted to stay for up to 90 days. This measure is designed to enhance business mobility and strengthen Hong Kong's position as a vibrant international hub, facilitating easier and longer business engagements for professionals from participating APEC economies.
The Immigration Department (ImmD) of Hong Kong has officially announced that, commencing November 1, 2026, the visa-free period of stay for holders of the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) Business Travel Card (ABTC) who have successfully obtained pre-clearance from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) will be extended to 90 days. This policy adjustment marks a significant enhancement for business travelers, as it triples the standard 30-day visa-free entry period often granted to cardholders in many APEC economies, providing substantially more time for business activities within the city. This change reflects Hong Kong's ongoing commitment to fostering international business and trade connections.
This extension offers substantial practical benefits for eligible business professionals and the companies they represent. It allows for more extensive and in-depth engagement in business negotiations, market research, project implementation, and other commercial activities without the immediate need for visa extensions or frequent border runs. For Hong Kong, it reinforces its appeal as a convenient and efficient destination for international business, potentially attracting more foreign investment and facilitating stronger economic ties with APEC member economies, thereby boosting its competitiveness as a global financial and trade center.
Background
The APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) scheme has long been facilitating smoother business travel within the Asia-Pacific region, providing pre-cleared, multiple-entry visa-free access for up to 60 or 90 days for business people from participating economies, with Hong Kong being an active member. Previously, HKSAR pre-clearance for ABTC holders typically granted a 30-day stay.
Who This Affects
- APEC Business Travel Card holders with HKSAR pre-clearance will significantly benefit from the extended 90-day visa-free stay, allowing for longer, more flexible business trips to Hong Kong.
- International businesses operating within the APEC region will find it easier to manage extended projects and foster deeper relationships in Hong Kong due to reduced travel restrictions for their key personnel.
- Professionals engaged in industries requiring substantial on-the-ground presence, such as consultants, project managers, and sales executives, will experience enhanced operational efficiency and reduced administrative burdens.
- Individuals requiring longer periods for negotiations, market research, or project implementation in Hong Kong will experience reduced administrative burdens.
What You Should Do Now
- APEC Business Travel Card holders should note the November 1, 2026 effective date for this extension and plan future business trips to Hong Kong accordingly to maximize the 90-day stay benefit.
- Prospective applicants interested in frequent business travel to Hong Kong should consider applying for an APEC Business Travel Card and HKSAR pre-clearance well in advance to utilize this upcoming policy.
- Businesses with employees who frequently travel to Hong Kong should update their internal travel policies and inform eligible staff about this forthcoming change to optimize their long-term business strategies.
Key Takeaway
From November 1, 2026, Hong Kong will extend the visa-free stay for APEC Business Travel Card holders with HKSAR pre-clearance to a generous 90 days, significantly boosting business mobility.
Source: Read official article on GovHK Press Releases (Immigration)
Publisher note — NaviBound summarizes cited third-party sources for convenience only. Confirm all requirements with the linked official announcement and qualified professionals. Not legal advice. Display date: Oct 30, 2026. Editorial policy