CONFIDENTIAL
Immigration of United Kingdom Citizens into Hong Kong Draft circular saving telegram to British Missions in all Foreign and Commonwealth Countries, to Governors and Administrators of Dependent Territories, and to the British
Government Representative Countries
The Government of Hong Kong has decided to introduce new
measures for the control of United Kingdom citizens entering Hong Kong.
Such persons will in future be placed on a time limitation, and require
permission to work, study, take up residence or commence a business in the
Colony. No visas will be required. United Kingdom citizens (and their wives and children) who have been ordinarily resident in Hong Kong on a continuous basis for at least seven years will have a right to land in the
Colony. The following instructions will therefore apply from 1st April,
1972.
The Summary of Visa Regulations will be amended as soon as possible.
2.
(a)
(b)
These new measures apply to
all persons holding United Kingdom passports issued in the
United Kingdom of Great Britain, and Northern Ireland (including
the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man) provided that the
document is not endorsed to the effect that issue was made on
behalf of some other territories;
persons born, adopted, naturalised, or registered as British
subjects in the United Kingdom who have not renounced their
British nationality.
Entry into Hong Kong
3.
All such United Kingdom citizens, whether entering the Colony as tourists, short-term visitors, or with the intention of residing in Hong
Kong for whatever purpose, will be allowed to enter the Colony without a
visa for six months, provided normal immigration requirements are met, i.e.
possession of valid passport, no adverse record and adequate funds.
Applications for extensions of stay will be granted liberally.
Entry for Employment etc.
Applications to enter Hong Kong for employment, residence, study
etc. will be considered after entry into Hong Kong. They will normally be
approved.
4.
/Applicants.....
CONFIDENTIAL