Expanded Individual Visit Scheme begins roll out

Eight cities were recently added to the list.

More travellers from Mainland China are expected to visit Hong Kong following the implementation of the expanded Individual Visit Scheme.

Authorities previously announced the inclusion of Taiyuan, Hohhot, Harbin, Lhasa, Lanzhou, Xining, Yinchuan, and Urumqi in the list.

This means that travellers from a total of 59 covered areas do not need to join group tours when going to Hong Kong. 

Secretary for Culture, Sports, and Tourism Kevin Yeung visited the Tourism Board’s Hong Kong International Airport Visitor Centre on 27 May to ensure that all units are prepared for the implementation of the programme. 

Yeung said the expanded programme “will help Hong Kong better connect and interact with residents from all provincial capitals through tourism activities, promote two-way visits and attract more high value-added overnight visitors.”

The official said various arrangements are available for Mainland visitors to fully experience the country.

This includes the distribution of vouchers worth $200 to IVS visitors from the eight cities, and inviting tourism representatives and relevant Mainland media to visit and introduce them to Hong Kong.