(photo: gcs.gov.mo)
Beginning November 5, travelers crossing Hengqin Port will be able to enjoy faster border crossings through "Smart Immigration Clearance" — a facial recognition-based, document-free clearance system.
The National Immigration Administration (NIA) announced the rollout on November 3 as part of ten new policy measures to support high-quality opening-up. The initiative expands the use of automated "face scan" lanes already in place at Shenzhen Bay and Gongbei ports to additional checkpoints, including Hengqin Port and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) Port.
Eligible travelers include:
1. Residents from the Chinese mainland with valid Hong Kong and Macao travel permits and multiple-entry endorsements for stay, family visits, business, talent exchange, or other purposes;
2. Hong Kong and Macao residents with Mainland Travel Permits;
3. Taiwan residents holding valid five-year travel passes.
These travelers can opt to clear customs simply through facial recognition.
The upgrade also designates Hengqin Port and the HZMB Port as new entry points for China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy, allowing citizens from 55 countries to enter visa-free when transiting to a third destination.
According to authorities of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, preparations for the "Smart Immigration Clearance" launch are complete, with all automated channels fully tested and optimized.
Authorities expect the upgraded facilities to increase inspection capacity by up to 65% once additional automated lanes are added next year.
"Smart Immigration Clearance" Registration and Cancellation
Registration (Aged 18 and Above)
Eligible passengers may register when travelling between Macao and Hengqin via the joint inspection automated channels at Hengqin Port.
At the first gate, present your identity document and tap "Agree" on the registration declaration screen.
Once registered, you can clear immigration with facial recognition ("face scan") instead of document scanning ("card scan").
Registration (Aged 14-17)
Step 1:
Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to a designated service location (including Hengqin Port). The parent or guardian must consent to registration and present both the minor's ID and proof of relationship.
Step 2:
The minor then completes the same on-site registration by presenting their ID and tapping "Agree" at the first gate.
Cancellation
Registered users may cancel their registration in person at a designated service location (including Hengqin Port).
Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian with the relevant ID and proof of relationship.
Registration and Cancellation Service Locations
Reporter: Zeng Xiangxing
Editor: Hu Nan, James Campion, Shen He
