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British passport holder. HK - Shenzhen via high speed train

Hi all

Looking through the info on the China Discovery website, I am unable to ascertain whether I can travel to Shenzhen for a day trip from HK. (The website states entry is to be via Shenzhen airport to be eligible for 144hrs visa free).

Does anyone know if I can obtain a visa free day trip from HK to Shenzhen via the high speed train please?

Many thanks

As a British passport holder, you are not eligible for the 144-hour visa-free transit policy when entering China via Shenzhen by high-speed train from Hong Kong. The 144-hour visa-free transit is only applicable for certain international flights entering China through specific airports or ports, and Shenzhen high-speed rail from Hong Kong does not qualify for this program.

For a day trip from Hong Kong to Shenzhen via high-speed train, you will need a valid Chinese visa. Here are the main options:

  • Single-entry Chinese tourist visa (L visa): You can apply in advance at a Chinese consulate in your home country or via a visa service. This visa allows you to enter Shenzhen and return to Hong Kong the same day.
  • Multiple-entry visa: If you plan multiple trips to Shenzhen or other parts of mainland China, a multiple-entry visa may be more convenient.
  • Visa on arrival: Shenzhen occasionally offers a “1-day visa” for some nationalities at specific ports (e.g., Shenzhen Bay Port), but eligibility is limited and not guaranteed. British passport holders generally cannot rely on this option at high-speed rail stations.

Once you have a valid visa, traveling is straightforward:

  • Take the MTR or other transportation from Hong Kong to the Shenzhen high-speed rail station (Futian or Luohu).
  • Present your passport and visa at the Chinese immigration checkpoint.
  • You can explore Shenzhen during the day and return to Hong Kong before the visa expires or the same day, depending on your visa type.

In summary, a visa-free day trip from Hong Kong to Shenzhen via high-speed train is not possible. You must obtain a Chinese visa in advance to enter Shenzhen legally for tourism or a day visit.

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