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STV Scheme — Entry for Short-term Activity (短期活動入境)
VisasHong KongSTV Scheme — Entry for Short-term Activity (短期活動入境)
Hong KongHong Kong•Asia
Open

STV Scheme — Entry for Short-term Activity (短期活動入境)

Work

At a Glance

Processing Time

Varies

Estimated Cost

Free

Stay Duration

14 days

Not renewable

Renewal

Not renewable

Family

No dependents

PR Pathway

None

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

Official Information

Overview

Facilitated entry for short-term cultural, sporting, religious, or academic activities (up to 14 days); requires standard visa/entry permit if not visa-exempt.

Hong Kong's Entry for Short-term Activity visa facilitates participation in 17 designated sectors including medical, higher education, arts, sports, innovation, environment, maritime, think tanks, and occupational safety/health. Applicants need an invitation from an authorized host and valid travel documents. This visa enables international expert participation without employment sponsorship.

The visa permits stays of up to 14 consecutive days per arrival with no visa fee for qualifying applicants. It is not renewable, carries no PR pathway, and does not authorize local employment. Applicants remain supported by their home institution or inviting organization. Processing timelines vary by applicant profile.

This visa is ideal for international professionals, artists, researchers, and athletes participating in specific short-term engagements that enhance Hong Kong's standing without competing for local jobs.

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Must be invited/sponsored by an authorised host organisation endorsed by relevant government bureaux/departments.

Must be participating in specified short-term activities in one of the 12 designated sectors (e.g., medical, higher education, arts and culture, sports, innovation and technology).

Must hold a valid travel document.

Must meet normal immigration requirements (e.g., clear criminal record, no security concerns).

Activities must be limited to a maximum of 14 consecutive calendar days per arrival.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Valid passport/travel document.

Invitation letter from an authorised host organisation.

Standard visa/entry permit (if the applicant is not from a visa-free nationality).

Proof of financial standing (if requested by immigration officers).

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Entry facilitated for short-term professional activities in 17 designated sectors without employment visa
  • Receive remuneration for specified short-term activities without formal employment sponsorship
  • No visa fee if you're from a qualifying nationality
  • Fast-track entry process — no lengthy employment visa bureaucracy required
  • Activities permitted across diverse fields: medical, higher education, arts, sports, tech, environment, maritime
  • No cap on number of activities completed within the 14-day approved period
  • Host organisation provides invitation letter — streamlined approval pathway from government

Worth Knowing

  • Strict 14-day maximum stay per arrival; longer stays require proper employment visa
  • Invitation letter not guaranteed; Immigration retains right to refuse landing despite approval
  • Activities must stay within designated sectors and invitation scope; scope violations can result in refusal
  • If you're not visa-exempt, you must still secure a standard visit visa/entry permit first
  • Prohibits local employment — must remain supported by home institution or host organization

Application Process

1

The host organisation must be an authorised entity endorsed by the relevant government bureau/department.

2

The host organisation issues an invitation letter to the qualifying visitor specifying the scope and role.

3

If the visitor is not from a visa-free country, they must still obtain a standard visit visa/entry permit from the Immigration Department before arrival.

4

Upon arrival, the visitor must present the invitation letter and meet standard immigration clearance.

Verified Claims (2)

Last verified Jun 27, 2026
Included Nationalities
null
immd.gov.hk
Requirements · 1
Must be participating in specified short-term activities in one of the 17 designated sectors (e.g., …
info.gov.hk
Official Information

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