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The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Donald Tsang, announced today (February 4) that the Japanese government will grant visa-free access for Hong Kong SAR passport holders wishing to visit Japan.

Under the new arrangement, effective 1 April 2004, Hong Kong citizens holding HKSAR passports may visit Japan for up to 90 days without a visa.

Mr Tsang made the announcement after meetings in Tokyo with the Minister of Foreign Affairs Yoriko Kawaguchi; Minister of Justice Daizo Nozawa, who is responsible for immigration; and Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Nobuteru Ishihara, who is responsible for tourism.

"This is a landmark arrangement that will produce significant benefits for both Japan and Hong Kong by strengthening our economic and cultural links," Mr Tsang said. "It also demonstrates the Japanese Government's confidence in Hong Kong's immigration controls under 'One Country, Two Systems'. Hong Kong travellers are law abiding and are trouble-free money-spenders."

"Visa-free access for HKSAR passport holders is the result of several years of discussions between Hong Kong and Japanese officials," he said. " Since 1997, our officials have been lobbying diligently to achieve this visa-free arrangement. I am grateful to all those in Japan and Hong Kong who have worked so hard to conclude this breakthrough. Including Japan, 129 countries and territories have now agreed to grant HKSAR passport holders visa-free access. This is an important milestone in the HKSAR Government's efforts to enhance travel convenience for Hong Kong residents. "

Last year, about 480,000 Hong Kong residents visited Japan, making Hong Kong one of the top five sources of visitors to the country. Currently, HKSAR passport holders require visas to enter Japan. Visa fees for both multiple and single entries are HK$71. Japanese nationals may enter Hong Kong visa-free for up to 90 days.

During his Tokyo visit, in addition to his meetings with the ministers, Mr Tsang spoke to the Japan-Hong Kong Parliamentarian League, updating the Japanese lawmakers on Hong Kong's post-SARS economic recovery and Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement with the Mainland.

He also visited the new Roppongi Hills redevelopment project, a large-scale arts and culture district, and officiated at the "Travel Man of the Year" Award Ceremony organised by the Hong Kong Tourism Board.

The Chief Secretary returns to Hong Kong tomorrow morning (February 5).

Ends/Wednesday, February 4, 2004

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