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The Immigration Department announced today (January 4) that with effect from January 16, 2006, nationals of the Republic of Congo would require visas to visit Hong Kong, whatever the purpose, including air passengers in transit.
At present, nationals of the Republic of Congo may visit Hong Kong without a visa for a period not exceeding 14 days.
"Hong Kong adopts a liberal visa policy under which nationals of about 170 countries and territories may visit Hong Kong without a visa and stay for a duration of between seven and 180 days," a spokesman said.
"The Immigration Department regularly reviews its visa policies and will take into account factors such as the social, economic and political situation of countries and territories concerned. The objective of our visa policy is to accord due facilitation to genuine visitors while maintaining effective immigration control."
The spokesman reminded holders of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region passport to check with the local Consulate of the Republic of Congo on the visa requirements before visiting the country.
Ends/Wednesday, January 4, 2006
Issued at HKT 19:24
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