QR codes to ease border crossing for HK-Macao travel

Permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macao traveling between the two special administrative regions will soon find it more convenient to cross the border with the launch of a QR code system.

Announced on Thursday by immigration authorities from both cities, the service will allow eligible residents to use a single QR code for immigration clearance in both cities, eliminating the need to present identification documents.

Passengers aged 11 or above who hold valid permanent resident identity cards and have preregistered for the system will be eligible to use the QR codes.

Hong Kong residents can generate their QR codes through the Contactless e-Channel mobile app, while Macao residents will use the Macao One Account app. Both QR codes are encrypted and contain biometric data for secure identification.

This program builds upon existing QR code immigration systems implemented in Hong Kong three years ago and Macao last year. Authorities say they have improved processing times by an average of two to three seconds per person.

"Nearly 2.5 million Hong Kong residents have registered to use Macao's self-service clearance channels, highlighting the frequent exchange between our cities," Hong Kong Director of Immigration Benson Kwok Joon-fung said at the launch ceremony.

"This new service will further enhance the travel experience and support the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area."

Macao Identification Services Bureau Director Chao Wai-leng called the initiative an "important step" for fostering closer ties between the regions.

The streamlined clearance process is expected to benefit not only leisure travelers, but also those engaged in cross-border business and cultural exchange.

Hong Kong and Macao officials say they are committed to exploring further improvements to simplify travel.

"Using QR codes will allow me to travel lighter and save time at the border," said a Macao resident surnamed Leung who frequently visits Hong Kong.

Hong Kong resident Lee Pui-ki said the travel process is already convenient, but the QR code system represents a positive step forward.

Atlas Shao contributed to this story.

stephyzhang@chinadailyhk.com