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

Labour Department completes special inspection exercise targeting contractor with unsatisfactory safety performance

A spokesman for the Labour Department (LD) said today (June 5) that the LD completed a two-week surprise special inspection exercise in May, targeting construction sites managed by a contractor with persistently unsatisfactory occupational safety and health (OSH) performance to deter unsafe work practices and protect the work safety of workers.

During the special inspection exercise, the LD inspected 62 construction sites, with 75 written warnings and 154 improvement notices issued; as well as 41 prosecutions initiated, which mainly involved violations such as unsafe lifting operations, unsafe working at height, and failure to provide personal protective equipment.

The LD will continue to follow up on the improvement progress of the construction sites with violations and will deal with unsafe working conditions in accordance with the law.

The LD reiterated that contractors must strictly implement all site safety measures to ensure the OSH of employees. Under the general duty provisions of the Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance (Cap. 509), employers are obligated to provide safe working environments, plant and systems of work for their employees. Those who contravene the relevant legislation are liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for two years.

The Labour Department (LD), Photo source: reference image