On September 16, 2026, the Immigration Department (ImmD) announced the launch of the “Go Hong Kong” mobile application, enabling eligible frequent visitors to Hong Kong to complete enrollment for the e-Channel service on their smartphones equipped with a camera, near-field communication (i.e. NFC) functionality and internet connectivity prior to arrival in Hong Kong.
Upon successful enrollment, visitors can use the e-Channel service upon arrival in Hong Kong.
Visitors meeting the following criteria may enroll for the e-Channel service via the “Go Hong Kong” mobile application:
- Be 18 or older;
- Hold a valid electronic travel document designated by the Immigration Department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and, where applicable, a multiple visit visa;
- Have no adverse record in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; and
- Have visited Hong Kong via Hong Kong International Airport at least twice in the past 24 months at the time of enrollment.
Eligible visitors can complete the submission of enrollment for the e-Channel service by using the “Go Hong Kong” mobile application. This includes providing an expected date of arrival within the next three months and an email address, scanning the biodata page of the travel document, reading the chip data, and undergoing facial recognition for identity verification. The ImmD will notify the eligible visitor of the outcome of their enrollment via the “Go Hong Kong” mobile application and by email.
Once the enrollment is approved, visitors only need to enter Hong Kong on or before the submitted expected date of arrival to activate the e-Channel service. If a visitor fails to enter Hong Kong on or before that date, the relevant enrollment record will automatically lapse.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news becomes available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.