Colombia, Hungary grant visa-free access for HKSAR Passports

International recognition of the Hong Kong SAR passport continues to grow with more and more countries granting visa-free access for Hong Kong citizens holding the travel document.

In early January visa-free access was granted by two more countries - Hungary and Colombia.

This takes to 105 the number of countries and territories grating visa-free access to HKSAR Passport holders.

"We warmly welcome the decision of these countries. It is a vote of confidence by them in Hong Kong's immigration control regime under 'one country, two systems'," a Government spokesman said.

"It is a further step in our efforts to enhance travel convenience for Hong Kong citizens holding the SAR passport, as well as promoting trade, business and tourism."

On January 7 it was announced that Columbia had granted visa-free access for Hong Kong SAR passport holders for a visit of up to 180 days per calendar year. At present, nationals of Colombia may visit Hong Kong for up to three months without a visa.

On January 8 it was announced that Hong Kong SAR passport holders visiting Hungary would be able to do so without a visa for up to 90 days. A similar visa-free period has been granted to Hungarians visiting Hong Kong.

Ends/Friday, January 8, 2002