Hong Kong and Uzbekistan Exchange Notes on Mutual Visa-Free Arrangement

HKSAR Government and Government of Uzbekistan exchange notes on mutual visa-free arrangement

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government and the Government of Uzbekistan exchanged notes today (June 3, Tashkent time), agreeing to discuss the implementation details of a mutual visa-free arrangement, which would allow a visa-free period of 30 days for visitors from both sides. Witnessed by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, Mr Bakhtiyor Saidov, representatives from both governments exchanged notes today to confirm the establishment of a mutual visa-free arrangement. Following the exchange of notes, the governments of both places will immediately advance the discussions of the detailed arrangements to strive for early implementation.

Currently, HKSAR passport holders can visit Uzbekistan visa-free for 10 days. Holders of diplomatic and service passports from Uzbekistan can visit Hong Kong visa-free for 14 days, while holders of ordinary passports from Uzbekistan must apply for a visa to visit Hong Kong.

To build closer bilateral relations, the HKSAR Government and the Government of Uzbekistan are establishing a mutual visa-free arrangement. This will extend the visa-free period for HKSAR passport holders visiting Uzbekistan from the current 10 days to 30 days, while all passport holders from Uzbekistan will be able to visit Hong Kong visa-free for 30 days.

A spokesman for the HKSAR Government stated that following the relaxation of the application criteria for multiple-entry visas for business and travel to Hong Kong for nationals from Uzbekistan in September 2025, establishing a mutual visa-free arrangement with Uzbekistan will help further promote economic, trade, and tourism development between Hong Kong and Central Asia.

The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee (fourth left), today (June 3, Tashkent time), met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, Mr Bakhtiyor Saidov (third right), and witnessed exchange of notes between representatives of the two governments on mutual visa-free agreement. Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee (second left), today (June 3, Tashkent time), met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, Mr Bakhtiyor Saidov, and witnessed exchange of notes between representatives of the two governments on mutual visa-free agreement. Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee (second left), today (June 3, Tashkent time), met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, Mr Bakhtiyor Saidov (second right), and witnessed exchange of notes between representatives of the two governments on mutual visa-free agreement. Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee (left), today (June 3, Tashkent time), met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, Mr Bakhtiyor Saidov (right), and witnessed exchange of notes between representatives of the two governments on mutual visa-free agreement. Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

Hong Kong Customs detects suspected cases of illegal importing of animals

Hong Kong Customs today (July 20) detected two suspected cases of illegal importing of animals at the Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point. Three suspected illegally imported live cats with a total estimated market value of about $36,000 were seized.

Customs officers today intercepted a 59-year-old incoming Mainland male passenger and a 58-year-old incoming Mainland female passenger at the Arrival Hall of the Control Point. Upon examination, two live cats and one live cat were seized from their backpacks respectively. The two passengers were subsequently arrested. The cases were handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up investigation.

Customs reminds the public that importing animals into Hong Kong without a valid permit is an offence.

Under the Rabies Regulation, any person found guilty of illegally importing animals, carcasses or animal products is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for one year.

Hong Kong Customs detects suspected cases of illegal importing of animals Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

Hong Kong Customs detects suspected cases of illegal importing of animals Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases