Editorial | A sensible decision on home return permits
- Extension of expired documents to visit mainland China is a relief to many Hong Kong residents, particularly the elderly who have not met relatives across the border during Covid-induced travel curbs
The pandemic already seems like a distant memory, even though the coronavirus continues to affect many. Mask mandates, widespread testing and social distancing are no longer with us but a full return to normal life will take time.
An example that meant so much to so many, sentimentally and practically, was the impact on the home-return permit system for business and personal travel to the mainland.
So many residents allowed permits to lapse during pandemic curbs on travel that they now face long waits for bookings to renew them, exacerbated by a post-Covid surge in demand. The delay adds to inconvenience and even personal hardship – especially for elderly residents who have not seen family and friends for years – long after the authorities scrapped restrictions.
This may be just one instance of Covid’s sweeping toll on life, health, education and personal circumstances. But, with the return to normal life on both sides of the border, it was time for officials to exercise flexibility and come up with an innovative solution.
There is, therefore, palpable and understandable relief at the news from the National Immigration Administration that mainland travel permits that have expired since January 1, 2020 will remain valid until December 31 this year.
