What kind of visa for a US citizen who wants to visit both mainland China and Hong Kong?

What kind of visa for a US citizen who wants to visit both mainland China and Hong Kong? - Multi-colored Building

I'm a US citizen and I'm trying visit relatives in mainland China and also a friend in Hong Kong in a single trip. The plane ticket I bought is a round trip from the US to Shanghai, and I will also buy a round trip from Shanghai to Hong Kong. So basically my trips will go like this:

US -> Shanghai -> stay 2 weeks -> Hong Kong -> Shanghai -> US

Does this count as entering China multiple times? i.e. will I need a multiple entry visa, or will a single entry one do?



Best Answer

As a US citizen, you do not need a visa to visit Hong Kong SAR for a short visit of up to 90 days.

You do, however, need a visa to visit mainland China. As you are visiting family, you may be able to apply for the Q2 family visit visa, which allows you to remain for up to 180 days.

You will need to have at least a double entry visa, as when you visit HK, you are considered to have exited China and will need another entry on your visa to return to the mainland. The good news is that under a 2014 bilateral agreement, US citizens usually get multiple entry visas without difficulty, as long as your passport has at least 1 year until its expiration. Be sure you tick "multiple entry" on your application and provide your itinerary including the Hong Kong visit.




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Do U. S. citizen need visa for Hong Kong?

U.S. citizens may visit Hong Kong for up to 90 days without a visa, but a visa is required for those to work, study, establish or join in any business or to take up residence.

How does a U. S. citizen get a visa for China?

Tourist Visa
  • Passport. You must provide your actual signed passport, including one copy of the personal information page of your passport. ...
  • Photograph(s) ...
  • Letter of Invitation. ...
  • Proof of State Residency. ...
  • China Visa Service Center Order Form. ...
  • Visa Application Form. ...
  • Travel Record. ...
  • Health Declaration.


  • Can I enter Hong Kong with a Chinese visa?

    (1) Chinese citizens going to Hong Kong, even for a short visit, will need to apply for an entry permit regardless of the types of passports they hold.

    How long is B1 B2 visa valid for?

    The US B1/B2 Tourist visa is valid for 10 years after issue. It means that after that time, you will need to renew your B1/B2 Visa if you want to stay in the United States long-term again. Also, it allows you to stay in the U.S. for a maximum of 180 days Per Entry.



    Hong Kong vs. Mainland China




    Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

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