Hong Kong visa for Sri Lankan

Question

Dear all,

I am a Sri Lankan passport holder and resident in UAE. I wanna process Hong Kong visa due to I booked ticket which 3 week ahead from now. If I applied now is there any possibilities to get a visa ? and I need to apply myself or via agencies. And one more thing, is they invitation letter needed for Hong Kong visa, tourist visa. I am going for 1 week itinerary

Answer

As a Sri Lankan passport holder residing in the UAE, you will need to apply for a Hong Kong tourist visa before your trip. It is generally possible to obtain a visa even with a travel date three weeks ahead, though processing times can vary depending on the mode of application and any local embassy workload.

You have two main options for applying:

Apply yourself: You can submit your application directly to the Chinese Embassy or Consulate that handles Hong Kong visa applications in the UAE. This is often the most straightforward approach if you have all the required documents.
Use a visa agency: Several travel agencies and visa service providers can handle the application on your behalf. They may charge a service fee but can simplify the process, especially if you are short on time.

Required documents typically include:

Completed visa application form.
Valid Sri Lankan passport with at least six months’ validity.
Passport-size photos.
Proof of residence in the UAE (residency permit or visa).
Flight itinerary showing entry and exit from Hong Kong.
Proof of accommodation during your stay.

Regarding an invitation letter:

An invitation letter is not mandatory for a standard tourist visa if you have your own confirmed travel itinerary, accommodation, and return flight. However, if you are visiting friends or family in Hong Kong, including an invitation letter from your host can strengthen the application.

Other tips:

Submit the application as early as possible to allow sufficient processing time.
Check the latest guidelines on the official Hong Kong Immigration Department website or the Chinese Embassy in UAE for any updates or changes.
Ensure all supporting documents are complete to avoid delays.

With careful preparation, it is feasible to obtain a Hong Kong tourist visa for your 1-week trip even with only three weeks before departure.