20pc rise in mainland tourists expected after change in permit rules
Travel agencies expect influx; number eligible to apply for easier permits could exceed 20m
Travel agencies on the mainland expect a 20 per cent increase in visitor numbers after a change in permit rules which will allow non-permanent residents of six cities easier access to Hong Kong, with the first surge arriving as early as next month.
From today people who study or work in Beijing, Shanghai, Chongqing , Tianjin or Guangzhou but do not hold residency permits there will be able to apply for single-visit permits to Hong Kong without returning to their hometowns, as is now required.
In Shenzhen, they will be able to seek multi-visit permits, a rule change that has already sparked fears about Hong Kong's ability to handle the influx.
No number has been put on how many people in the six cities will benefit, but it could exceed 20 million.
Applications usually take a month. Applicants can choose group tours or individual travel.
Agencies expect people in the more distant cities to join group tours but say most in Guangzhou and Shenzhen will probably opt for individual travel.
Li Silu , in charge of Hong Kong and Macau tours at big Shanghai agency Datong Travel, expects tourists to Hong Kong during the golden week holiday in October to rise 20 per cent.