Streamlined Hong Kong Inward Border Process for Australians?

LWally on 29/09/2017 - 08:25
Last edited 29/09/2017 - 08:27

I remember some discussion on an OzB thread about Australian passport holders being able to obtain streamlined Hong Kong immigration control processing - if they meet certain criteria. That an application to obtain such status can be made online. Have searched but cannot find the thread posts but remember there were differing opinions.

Can someone advise the necessary criteria for a business traveller (who has travelled to HK a few times) only staying for a few days? and maybe the weblink to apply.

thanks

Travel

Comments

  • altomic on 29/09/2017 - 08:28

    Just going in and out of HK? Not via mainland China?

    If yes and yes, then clearing immigration is pretty quick (similar to Singapore).

    • Wally on 29/09/2017 - 08:48

      so you are saying obtaining e-Channel service would not provide faster entry for business traveller?

      • altomic on 29/09/2017 - 08:59

        Might save you 5 minutes

        • bobbified on 29/09/2017 - 11:35
          +2

          I've used the e-channel service for the last 5 years and it's definitely not just a 5 minute saving.

          Before I had the barcode on the back of my passport, I'd easily be waiting 30 minutes or more in the immigration queue. The number of people in line varies greatly, but it's never just been a 5 minute wait.

          With the e-channel service, it's much easier to plan my entry and exit, especially when I'm just transiting and have limited time to go out to meet friends and then back in for my next flight.

        • altomic on 29/09/2017 - 11:55
          +1

          @bobbified: the last 2 times I entered HK it was smooth sailing. YMMV

        • bobbified on 29/09/2017 - 12:10
          +1

          @altomic:

          Years ago, the lines didn't seem that bad. Nowadays, the lines look 90% mainland tourists and the other 10% was "everyone else".

          I look at the lines each time now I'm glad I have the e-channel barcode. haha.

  • Wally on 29/09/2017 - 08:30

    In & out of HK within 3 days!

  • bobbified on 29/09/2017 - 11:53

    is this the link you're looking for? This one has all the criteria.

    http://www.immd.gov.hk/eng/services/echannel_visitors.html

    I've never heard of any online appication. I got mine at one of the kiosks/offices just after exiting through immigration.

  • Wally on 01/10/2017 - 15:33

    Thanks for the responses

    It does seem there is no online registration, need to personally register the first time at kiosk after exit

    Found this 2014 article with details of the frequent flyer programs that are registered with e-Channel
    https://www.ausbt.com.au/how-frequent-flyers-can-get-fast-la…

    eg
    Air New Zealand: Airpoints Silver, Gold, Gold Elite
    Qantas: Gold, Platinum, Platinum One, Chairman's Lounge
    Singapore Airlines: KrisFlyer Elite Gold and PPS Club
    Cathay Pacific: all Marco Polo members

    Anybody know of another frequent flyer programs added since 2014?

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