Effective January 30, 2024, Eswatini nationals can no longer enter Hong Kong visa-free. This marks a shift in policy for the previously visa-exempt country, requiring all Eswatini passport holders to obtain a visa before travel, regardless of their purpose or transit status.

Key Points:

• New Visa Requirement: As of January 30th, 2024, all Eswatini nationals, including those transiting through Hong Kong, require entry visas.
• Previously Visa-Free: Before this change, Eswatini nationals enjoyed visa-free access to Hong Kong for up to 90 days.
• Open Visa Policy with Nuances: Hong Kong generally maintains an open visa policy for around 170 countries, with visa-free periods ranging from 7 to 180 days. However, regular reviews ensure a balance between welcoming genuine visitors and safeguarding immigration control.
• Reciprocal Requirement: Hong Kong passport holders require a visa to visit Eswatini, highlighting the reciprocal nature of this policy change.

Global Passport Rankings

Eswatini Passport Ranked 128th globally, offering visa-free travel to 46 countries, visa-on-arrival in 25, and eVisas in 12. While not banned by any nation, it lacks extensive visa-free access.

Hong Kong Passport Ranked 44th globally, allowing visa-free travel to 135 countries.  It offers eTA access to 5 countries and visa-on-arrival/e-visa access to 29 and 19 countries, respectively, requiring visas for 38 nations. Notably, Hong Kong's passport ranking remained relatively stable throughout 2023.

Potential Reasons for the Change

While the official reasons remain undisclosed, possible factors influencing the decision include:

• Maintaining immigration control: Eswatini's passport ranking might have raised concerns about potential immigration risks.
• Reciprocity: Eswatini requiring visas for Hong Kong passport holders may have prompted a similar response.
• Addressing specific concerns: Security or immigration issues involving Eswatini nationals could have played a role.

Impact and Considerations:

This new visa requirement necessitates planning and securing a visa before travelling to Hong Kong. The change may impact travel patterns and business between the two regions. Both countries' visa policies remain subject to review and potential adjustments.

For the latest information and visa application details, refer to the official websites of the Hong Kong Immigration Department and the Eswatini Embassy or Consulate in your country.

FAQS

Why can't Eswatini nationals travel visa-free to Hong Kong anymore?

The official reasons haven't been disclosed, but possible factors include maintaining immigration control, reciprocity with Eswatini's visa requirement for Hong Kong passport holders, or addressing specific security concerns.

When did this change take effect?

The new visa requirement for Eswatini nationals entering Hong Kong became effective on January 30, 2024.

What type of visa do Eswatini travellers need now?

The specific visa type depends on the purpose and duration of your visit. Details and application procedures are found on the Hong Kong Immigration Department website.

Will this affect travel between Hong Kong and other countries?

Potentially. This change might impact travel patterns and business between Hong Kong and Eswatini. Visa policies of other countries remain independent and unaffected.

 How can I stay updated on future changes?

Monitor the official websites of the Hong Kong Immigration Department and the Eswatini Embassy or Consulate in your country for the latest information and visa application details.

How does this change affect the global ranking of passports?

Hong Kong's passport ranking is unlikely to be significantly impacted. Eswatini's ranking might decrease slightly due to the loss of visa-free access to Hong Kong. However, passport rankings consider various factors, and change dynamics can be complex.