Overview
Most travelers visiting Hong Kong for tourism enjoy visa-free entry ranging from 7 to 180 days, depending on nationality — so check that first. Two groups need extra steps, both entirely self-service on the government's own site: Indian nationals (and a handful of other nationalities) must complete a free online Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR) before traveling visa-free, while nationals who don't qualify for visa-free entry at all apply for an eVisa directly through the Immigration Department. Neither requires an agent or embassy visit.
Visa categories
| Visa-free entry | For most nationalities, no application needed at all — stay length varies by passport, from 7 to 180 days. |
|---|---|
| Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR) | Mandatory for Indian nationals (and some others) before visa-free entry of up to 14 days; free, instant online result. |
| eVisa | For nationalities not covered by visa-free entry or PAR — a full online application through the Immigration Department. |
Documents checklist
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry, with blank pages
- Recent photograph (for eVisa applicants)
- Proof of financial standing (bank statements, salary slips)
- Transportation arrangement (flight itinerary)
- Itinerary for your stay in Hong Kong
- For PAR: your Indian passport details only — no supporting documents needed for the registration itself
Step-by-step application process (PAR)
1. Check if PAR applies to you
Currently required mainly for Indian nationals visiting or transiting for up to 14 days, unless exempted (diplomatic passport holders, e-Channel enrollees, etc.).
2. Go to the GovHK PAR platform
Access the designated Pre-arrival Registration platform through gov.hk or immd.gov.hk.
3. Complete the online form
Enter your details as prompted across the form's sections.
4. Get an instant result
The system processes and displays your result immediately, free of charge.
5. Print your Notification Slip
Print it yourself on blank A4 paper — you'll need it at check-in and immigration. It's valid for 6 months or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Fees & processing time
| PAR fee | Free |
|---|---|
| PAR processing | Instant online result |
| eVisa processing | Varies by nationality and purpose — check the Immigration Department's guidance for your case |
Sources reviewed: immd.gov.hk (Immigration Department, HKSAR Government), gov.hk (official pre-arrival registration platform). Eligibility for visa-free entry, PAR and eVisa varies by nationality and changes over time — always confirm on the official Immigration Department site before applying.