As of September 8, 2025, Hong Kong will implement a significant increase in visa fees and other immigration services. This adjustment will affect both travelers and foreign residents, with fee hikes ranging from 3% to 51% depending on the specific service. This measure aims to align charges with the “user pays” principle, ensuring that processing costs are adequately covered while maintaining the financial viability of immigration services.

Beginning on September 8, 2025, Hong Kong will implement significant increases to many of its visa and immigration service fees. This change impacts a wide range of services including visas, entry permits, passports, and other travel documents. The scheduled hikes, which vary from 3% to 51%, will affect both foreign residents and visitors.

Reasons Behind the Fee Increases

The adjustment in fees is attributed to the government’s intent to align rates with the “user pays” principle, which emphasizes covering the actual processing costs associated with immigration services. This change is aimed at ensuring the financial sustainability of these services, minimizing reliance on external funding. While the authorities suggest that the impact on daily expenses for most residents and businesses will be minimal, foreign tourists and visitors are expected to feel the financial burden more acutely.

Overview of New Rates

The following table illustrates a few notable changes in expenses for various immigration services:

This table, while non-exhaustive, provides a clear overview based on official data from the Immigration Department.

Who Will Be Affected?

The increase in fees will primarily impact:

• Travelers: Foreign tourists and visitors will need to pay higher fees to secure their visas or entry permits.
• Professionals: Fees for work and residence visas are also set for increases.
• Students and Families: Minor increments will apply to student and dependent permits.
• Shipping Services: Fees for sending official documents abroad will witness the most substantial hikes, potentially soaring up to 51%.

Practical Advice for International Travelers

Why Act Now?

The last revision of fees took place several years ago. This forthcoming update is a strategic response to current costs related to managing and processing immigration files while maintaining service quality. To navigate this evolving landscape smoothly, it is essential for prospective travelers to stay informed and proactive regarding their immigration needs.

For further insights on international visa updates, you may explore related resources such as the UK transit regulations or Kenya’s changes to e-Visa requirements. Additionally, new initiatives such as India’s e-Student Visa and Nigeria’s e-Visa system may provide context for ongoing shifts in global visa regulations. Lastly, keep an eye on Gabon’s free tourist e-Visa initiative for potential travel opportunities.

• Effective Date: September 8, 2025
• Reason for Increase: Align with the “user pays” principle
• Overall Increase: Ranges from 3% to 51%
• Visa Type: Ordinary visa – Old: HKD 230, New: HKD 330
• Visa Type: Transit visa – Old: HKD 120, New: HKD 170
• Entry Permit (1 year): Old: HKD 470, New: HKD 670
• Entry Permit (3 years): Old: HKD 935, New: HKD 1,350
• Passport (adult, 32 pages): Old: HKD 370, New: HKD 430
• Passport (minor, 32 pages): Old: HKD 185, New: HKD 215
• Advice: Submit applications before September 8, 2025

Visa Fees in Hong Kong Set to Increase

Effective September 8, 2025, Hong Kong will revise its visa fees, resulting in increases for various immigration services such as visas, entry permits, and passports. The adjustment reflects a rise ranging from 3% to 51%, affecting both travelers and foreign residents. The government justifies this change as necessary to align with the user pays principle and to cover processing costs, aiming for financial sustainability without external funding. To avoid higher fees, applicants are encouraged to submit their documentation before the increase.

Elisa Asket

Hello! I’m Elisa, a 45-year-old travel companion with a passion for exploring new places and cultures. With years of travel experience under my belt, I thrive on creating memorable journeys for my clients. Let’s embark on an adventure together!