What Changed
- Immediate availability of enrolment for the collaborative inspection automated channel via the ImmD's HK e-Channel mobile app and on-site locations.
- Deployment of 134 automated channels allowing single-presentation clearance for both Hong Kong and Shenzhen immigration procedures at Huanggang Port.
- Inclusion of optional Face Scan document-free clearance enrolment for eligible Hong Kong residents and Mainland visitors aged 14 or above.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (Hong Kong SAR) Immigration Department (ImmD) announced on October 6, 2026, the immediate launch of an enrolment service for the "collaborative inspection" automated channel service at the redeveloped Huanggang Port. Announced in the 2026 Policy Address, the redeveloped port is expected to be commissioned in the fourth quarter of 2026 under a co-location arrangement implementing a novel "collaborative inspection and joint clearance" mode.
Under this system, the redeveloped Huanggang Port is equipped with 134 "collaborative inspection" automated channels and 68 traditional manual counters. Enrolled passengers using the automated channels will queue up and present their identity documents only once to complete immigration clearance procedures for both Hong Kong and Shenzhen simultaneously.
Eligible Hong Kong residents aged seven or above holding required identity cards and travel permits—such as Mainland Travel Permits for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (Home Visit Permits) or Exit-Entry Permits with valid Hong Kong travel endorsements—can enrol. Eligible residents aged 18 or above can enrol via the ImmD's "HK e-Channel" mobile application (formerly "Contactless e-Channel") using biometric authentication and "iAM Smart", or at designated on-site enrolment offices, self-service kiosks, or automated channels. Parents or legal guardians must complete enrolment on behalf of eligible minors aged seven to 17 via the app. Mainland visitors holding valid Exit-Entry Permits can enrol on-site or directly at automated channels if aged 18 or above.
Eligible Hong Kong residents and Mainland visitors aged 14 or above can also enrol for the document-free "Face Scan" clearance service during the process. The ImmD reminds passengers that they must continue carrying valid travel documents conforming to the immigration rules of both regions when using the automated channels, and traditional manual counters remain available.
Who May Be Affected
Eligible Hong Kong residents and Mainland visitors traveling cross-border between Hong Kong SAR and Shenzhen via Huanggang Port.
Cross-Border Context
Pertains to joint immigration clearance facilities and co-location arrangements operating between Hong Kong SAR and Shenzhen, Mainland China.
What to check next
- ImmD dedicated website page for collaborative inspection details at www.immd.gov.hk/cijcpec_hkt
- Official commissioning date announcement for the redeveloped Huanggang Port in Q4 2026
This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Consult the official text and obtain advice appropriate to your circumstances where needed.