The expansion of Shenzhen's "One Sign, Multiple Lines" policy has landed, instantly increasing the passenger flow in Hong Kong before Christmas!

Hong Kong's tourism market has received another policy boost. Following the expansion of the multiple-entry visa scheme in Shenzhen, pre-Christmas visitor numbers to Hong Kong have already demonstrated an immediate surge. The National Immigration Administration reconfirmed in December that Shenzhen residents and holders of Shenzhen residence permits are eligible to apply for multiple-entry visas. Over ten million individuals benefited from this policy during this year's Christmas period.

Border crossing data indicates a 15% year-on-year increase in weekend visitors to Hong Kong. Responding to this surge in demand, travel agencies have launched specialised products such as ‘half-day immersive tours’ and ‘New Year's Eve check-in itineraries’ to precisely meet short-trip requirements.

This expansion of the ‘one visa, multiple entries’ policy in Shenzhen represents a significant step in deepening travel convenience between Guangdong and Hong Kong. Previously limited to Shenzhen residents, the inclusion of Shenzhen residence permit holders substantially broadens the beneficiary pool, with the first cohort exceeding ten million. This policy adjustment not only lowers the threshold for non-Shenzhen household permanent residents to visit Hong Kong but also leverages the geographical proximity between the two cities. It further stimulates demand for short-haul travel, consumption, and family visits to Hong Kong, injecting fresh incremental momentum into Hong Kong's tourism market.

The policy dividends have swiftly translated into increased passenger flows, with pre-Christmas weekend data providing clear evidence. Border crossing measurements indicate that during the first weekend following the policy's implementation, passenger flows to Hong Kong increased by 15% year-on-year, with a notable rise in the proportion of Shenzhen residents. As the Christmas holiday approaches and festive atmosphere intensifies, coupled with the appeal of Hong Kong's promotional activities such as the ‘Winter Wonderland’, passenger flows to Hong Kong are expected to continue climbing. For Shenzhen residents, the convenience of the ‘multiple-entry visa’ has made short trips to Hong Kong a routine choice. Whether for Christmas shopping, leisure sightseeing, or experiencing festive vibes, they are no longer constrained by frequent visa renewal requirements.

Seizing this market opportunity presented by rising passenger numbers, travel agencies have swiftly responded by launching tailored tourism products. To accommodate Shenzhen residents' demand for short, high-frequency trips, several travel agencies have prioritised developing ‘half-day immersive tours’. These focus on Hong Kong's distinctive shopping districts and lesser-known attractions, offering tailored short-break services. Simultaneously, capitalising on the year-end New Year's Eve period, they have launched ‘New Year's Eve check-in routes’. These connect venues such as the Central Chater Road countdown event, enabling visitors to immerse themselves in Hong Kong's festive New Year atmosphere.