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Mainland China overhauls one-way permit rules for settling in Hong Kong and Macau

Mainland China overhauls one-way permit rules for settling in Hong Kong and Macau

Beijing has abolished its points-based system for mainland residents seeking to settle in Hong Kong or Macau and replaced it with four transparent family-reunion categories that start on 1 July 2026. The reform promises faster, more predictable approvals, giving employers a larger talent pool and long-separated families a clearer path to reunification. It also underscores Beijing’s strategy to integrate the two special administrative regions more closely with the Greater Bay Area.

Jul 1, 2026
Beijing overhauls One-Way Permit rules, giving mainland families clearer path to settle in Hong Kong

Beijing overhauls One-Way Permit rules, giving mainland families clearer path to settle in Hong Kong

China’s National Immigration Administration announced on 30 June that it will replace the long-criticised points system for One-Way Permits with unified family-reunion criteria effective 1 July 2026. The move promises faster, more predictable approvals for mainland residents seeking to settle in Hong Kong or Macau, reducing uncertainty for families and employers alike.

Jul 1, 2026
Mainland China Sets Clearer Rules for Permanent Settlement in Hong Kong and Macau

Mainland China Sets Clearer Rules for Permanent Settlement in Hong Kong and Macau

Effective 1 July 2026, mainland residents seeking to settle permanently in Hong Kong or Macau must fit one of four clearly defined family-reunification categories under a new National Immigration Administration notice. The standardised rules replace patchy local practices, promise faster processing, and give employers and assignees greater certainty when planning relocations that involve dependants or elderly parents.

Jul 1, 2026

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