What is the PAR Registry for Indians?

Indian nationals wishing to enter Hong-Kong for a stay of up to 14 days do not require entry Visas. Instead, one is required to have a Pre-arrival registration (PAR) notification slip for which they can apply online. This service is free of charge.

The Hong Kong pre arrival registration for Indians came into effect on the 23rd of January 2017 in accordance with a directive announced by the Hong Kong Immigration Department on December 12^th 2016. It was introduced with the aim of saving travellers’ time at the border.

If one wishes to stay for a duration that exceeds 14 days, they must apply for a HKSAR Visa. HKSAR refers to Hong Kong Special Administrative Region which is the official name for the city of Hong Kong.

Outlined below is information regarding the Pre-arrival registration (PAR); Requirements, Exemptions, Validity and General Procedures.

Requirements for Pre-arrival registration for Indian Nationals

Indians must meet the following two conditions to register for a PAR.

1. Have an Indian passport that is valid for at least 6 months.

2. Plan to stay for a period not exceeding 14 days.

However, Indian nationals who have valid permission to reside, work or study in Hong Kong need not apply for the PAR. The same applies to those with the right of abode or right to land in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

Exemptions from Pre-arrival registration for Indians



In addition to those mentioned above, the following nationals can enter the HKSAR without having met the PAR requirement; subject to normal immigration requirements being met.

1. Those holding a valid Indian diplomatic or official passport

2. Those holding a United Nations Laissez Passer and are going to; or passing through Hong Kong for official United Nations business

3. Those holding a HKSAR Travel Pass

4. Those enrolled for the e-Channel service/Automated Passenger Clearance System. (However, if the validity of the passport linked to the e-Channel service lapses or becomes invalid, the e-Channel service becomes immediately invalid)

5. Those holding a valid entry Visa for the HKSAR

6. Operating aircrew or sea crew who are on board vessels, and Contract Seaman.

7. Those simply transiting through Hong Kong and who must therefore remain within the bounds of the International Transit Area of the airport.

How long does it take to fill the online Pre-Arrival Registration

It can be completed in just a couple of minutes upon which a result will be provided instantly. Applicants will be required to provide personal and passport information in order to complete the form.

If successful, an option to “View/Print Registration Notification Slip” will be provided.

Print the provided notification slip on a sheet of blank A4 paper then check that the information therein tallies with what is on your Indian passport before signing the notification slip on the allotted space.

In case the applicant is under the age of 16, a parent or legal guardian must check that the information in the notification slip is correct and sign it.

How long is a PAR valid for?

A pre-arrival registration is valid for 6 months from the date of approval. During this period, an Indian national can make multiple visits to Hong Kong so long as they have both their PAR notification slip and the passport linked to that slip.

Only when the validity of the PAR slip lapses will you be allowed to apply for another.

A Word of Caution

Note that the information provided in the application must be accurate and true. Any inaccuracies or inconsistencies between your passport and PAR notification slip will deem your pre-arrival registration invalid and entry into Hong Kong or a vessel bound for Hong Kong will be denied.

Worse off, should the information provided be found to be intentionally false or misleading, the offender will be liable for prosecution under the Laws of Hong Kong.

General Guidelines



Even though the application for a pre-arrival is instant, government of Hong Kong advises Indian travellers to apply up to 4-6 weeks in advance.

Before you begin your travel, remember to carry the same valid Indian passport you used to register for the PAR. The two are now electronically linked together such that using a different passport will lead to denial of entry. Both will be checked by transport officials and operators so be sure not to forget them.

Should your pre-arrival registration not be successful, apply to the Hong Kong Immigration Department for an entry Visa.

Once inside Hong Kong, ensure that you carry a printed copy of your PAR at all times once inside Hong.

Value of the PAR to travelling Indian nationals

The PAR has made travelling to Hong Kong on short stays much easier for Indians. No longer is it necessary to spend time applying for a Visa at an embassy or consulate. Furthermore, border crossing is made much smoother and less time consuming.

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Hong Kong Visa for Indians: Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR) Slip

There was a time when Indian citizens would get free visa on arrival to Hong Kong. Even now, some Indian citizens could get such a visa on arrival, but it depends completely on the immigration officer in front of you. Today, Indian passport holders require a pre-arrival registration (PAR) slip prior to their arrival at Hong Kong else there is a chance that they might be sent back.

Below is all the information about the pre-arrival registration (PAR) slip for Indian passport holders and how Indian passport holders can use this to plan their trip to Hong Kong and may be Macau or mainland China if they intend to travel via Hong Kong.

What is this Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR) Slip?

The pre-arrival registration is something like an electronic authorization or e-Visa. Indian passport holders need to apply for this pre-arrival registration (PAR) online before arriving into Hong Kong. If you wish to apply or wish to know more, you can read further about the PAR on Byevisa.com.

What are the minimum requirements for this PAR?

The PAR Hong Kong visa requirement for Indian citizens is fairly simple. All you need is a passport that is valid for at least 6 months, 3 empty pages in it, travel and accommodation details.

What is the validity of this PAR?

This Hong Kong PAR travel document will allow you to visit Hong Kong multiple times for 14 days each during its 6 month or 180 day period. This is ideal for those who are planning short trips to Macau, mainland China or Taiwan keeping Hong Kong as a base. This way, you can keep returning to Hong Kong from the different destinations and need not apply for a new PAR as you are allowed multiple entries within a 180 day window.

However, if you change your passport or if the 180 day window has passed, you will need to apply for a new PAR slip.

How do I apply for this PAR?

If you have access to the internet, you can fill the pre-arrival registration for Indian nationals form on the Hong Kong immigration department website. You could go via a travel or visa agency in case you do not have access to the internet or if you wish someone else to handle it on your behalf.

This form entails the following details:

1) Information of registrant: Name, nationality, sex, marital status, date of birth, place of birth, residential address in India, contact telephone number

2) Information of passport: Passport number, date of issue, date of expiry, place of issue

3) Previous travels to Hong Kong

4) Previous visits to foreign countries or territories

5) Occupation

6) Details of coming visit: Purpose of visit, proposed duration, address of accommodation, address of local connection (if any)

7) Others

8) Identification question

You will need to confirm the details once you have filled all the details. Do ensure that all the information matches the information mentioned in your passport.

How long before I receive the PAR slip?

You will receive your PAR slip (if approved) immediately upon confirming your details in the form mentioned above. In case your PAR slip does not get approved, you could try applying for a Hong Kong visa at the nearest consulate or may be call them and see when you can apply for this PAR again.

You can take a print out of the PAR slip, sign it and keep it with your passport. You can store a soft copy of the PAR slip as a PDF copy on your phone as a back up in case you lose the print out.

What documents do I need to carry before I arrive into Hong Kong?

These are the following documents that you need to carry with you when you arrive into Hong Kong:

1) Valid passport

2) Printed copy of the PAR

Do remember to carry your PAR slip with you at all times wherever you are traveling within Hong Kong.

So, now that you know how you get your pre-arrival registration (PAR) slip for Hong Kong, all that you have to do is complete your covid-19 vaccination, wait for the international borders to open, book your flight tickets, get your PAR and enjoy a great holiday in Hong Kong.

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Top Cruising Routes in Asia

Photo courtesy: Ponant Cruises

Asia is indeed a harmony of countless rich cultures and is home to some of the oldest civilizations in the world. Cruising Asia means enjoying an unforgettable experience as you explore the exotic landscape and unravel the colonial history. Cruise passengers heading East are sure on a wonderful experience as they come across sea cruise destinations such as Cambodia, Singapore, Japan, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Burma, China, Taiwan, and more. What makes Asian cruising a much more attractive option is that you can cover several countries in one go!

A Ponant cruise to Asia is a lot more than just taking a journey from one exotic port to another. You are on an unforgettable vacation of tranquil landscapes and most intriguing destinations. Ponant luxury vessels and boats add to the appeal of the captivating ancient continent with diverse cultures. Learn more about the exceptional Ponant itineraries on this website and get ready to discover some of the most enchanting and dynastic cities of Asia.

Here are some of the top cruises in Asia.

Japan Cruise


Photo courtesy: StudioPonant Margot Sib

Enjoy the best of Japan on an exceptional itinerary designed by Ponant that will take you straight to the heart of Japan. Explore the Land of the Rising Sun and its enhancing cities like Osaka, Tamano, Miyajima, Busan, and more. Learn about the history of the samurai and geishas on the Japanese cruise and admire the country’s landscaped gardens as well as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This is your chance to discover medieval and ancient Japan.

The Seychelles Cruise



Photo courtesy: StudioPonant Morgane Monneret

For cruising Seychelles, you arrive and depart from Victoria Port, and the new and exciting itinerary invites you to discover the paradise of archipelago’s Inner Islands. Some of the essential stops include Sainte Anne Marine National Park, Curieuse Island, Praslin, and more. Enjoy unforgettable snorkelling as you get to see coral reefs with stunning species or look at the Aldabra giant tortoises within the mangrove. Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, with its gigantic endemic fruits, should not be missed. Enjoy some moments of relaxation on the stunning islands with fantastic beaches.

Hong Kong to Japan Cruise

What could be better than cruising from Hong Kong and spend some days in Taiwan and Shanghai before heading for the Japanese city of Yokohama. This is your opportunity to get a taste of vast and varied cultures of the Asian region. You will come across countries and cites that are radically different but deeply honour their past. It is indeed a unique experience to see the quiet serenity of ancient times existing side by side with hyper-modernity. Throughout the trip, you can observe the modernist impulse in the traditional aesthetics and architecture of the cities and its food and culture.

Aldabra Atoll Cruise

Aldabra Atoll and its Secret Islands are very popular among the Asian cruisers. The expedition cruise invites you on an unforgettable trip aboard one of the luxury PONANT vessels and leads you to the most beautiful islands with idyllic landscapes that boast of exceptional flora and fauna. During the cruise, there would be endless opportunities to swim, dive, and snorkel, especially when you are in the Alphonse lagoon. Aldabra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the largest population of land turtles and numerous colonies of birds.

Vietnam to Singapore Cruise




Photo courtesy: Ponant Cruises Ship

Another of the popular Asian cruise covers Vietnam and then Hong Kong to Singapore. The cruise offers you a glimpse into the Asian lifestyle and culture. Those families living in floating fish farms in Vietnam and alter halts in Hong Kong and Singapore are sure to amaze you. The cruise covers visits to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Mekong Delta.

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Hong Kong Street Food Guide

When it comes to street food, Hong Kong certainly rules the roost! After all, there are very state or areas that not only offer a vast range of gastronomical delights right on the streets and can fill you up with just a few bucks. Moreover, no matter where you go, or which street you enter in Hong Kong, you are surprised by the vast variety of delicious street side snacks and tasty tidbits in so many different flavours.

Needless to say, your trip to Hong Kong remains incomplete without tasting those delicious eats on the streets. Sure Hong Kong boasts of some of the finest dining experience you can enjoy at its elegant restaurants. However, nothing can beat the experience of enjoying the hot and fresh food sold right on the streets.



As there are so many food choices in this culinary mecca, it is a good idea to go for one of those food tours in Hong Kong. It is an excellent way to know about the leading eateries in those humble streets and enjoy a treasuring dining experience.

Here are street foods of Hong Kong that you must try before leaving the state.

1) Curry fish balls

One of the most famous street food, you will love these very flavoursome fish balls that are served on almost every street in Hong Kong. Deep-fried in hot oil, the fish balls are then placed in a spicy curry.

2) Egg waffles

You will love those waffles with crispy, flaky edges and a soft and eggy centre. You will come across almost every local enjoying the street food with fruits, chocolate sauce or ice cream. The Egg waffles are served in various flavour and can easily fill you up.

3) Cheong fun



You will always find a long line for this favourite street food which is smooth rice noodle rolls served with sweet sauce. The smooth and savoury rolls topped with sesame seeds offer a more enjoyable experience and are a crowd favourite.

4) Fried pig intestines

Another of the most appealing street food is the fried pig intestines. However, this street food is only for the adventurous, but once you taste this snack, you will develop a craving for it.

5) Siu Mai

You can recognize this ubiquitous street food because of its bright yellow wrapper. You will love this steamed snack filed with fish meat and served with soy sauce.

6) Grilled squid tentacles

If you are looking for a perfect snack on Hong Kong streets, you will find it in those grilled squid tentacles. You will love the chewy and rubbery texture of these absolutely delicious squids.

7) Pineapple buns

Pineapple buns are a delight, and they have a bit of pineapple in them as well as some butter in their sweet centre. These buns have remained a popular street food for decades and are enjoyed with traditional teas and coffee.

8) Egg tarts



When you bite into the fluffy and light egg custard, you will feel as if you are in heaven. You are sure to fall for these egg tarts with the crispy and chewy crust on the outside and the glistening yellow custard filling inside.

9) Cheung fun

Cheung fun is simply loved for its distinct chewy taste and smooth texture. The street food comes without fillings and is made of rolling steamed rice noodle sheets. You can enjoy it with different sauces of peanut, chilli, and soy.

10) Stinky tofu

Stinky tofu is another classic food that you must try. You may get a bit put off by the rancid smell, but once you taste it, you will simply love the street food that is perfectly crunchy. You can enjoy it with sweet, chili sauce and piping hot noodles.

11) Fried chestnuts

Enjoy a healthy snack of fried chestnuts which is simple but great-tasting. The best part is that they are served at all times on the streets of Hong Kong. It is hard to resist the enticing aroma of these nuts sold with a lot of hawkers in the city.

12) Bowl pudding



The bowl pudding is available in white or brown versions. Everyone loves this ordinary bowl pudding which is like a sticky, glutinous mess with a slight sugary sweetness. Both versions are studded with red beans and remain a favourite with the locals.

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Why should Hong Kong be your Family Getaway this summer?

Hong Kong! What do we typically associate with this world class city of the Orient? Financial hub? Sensational high rises? Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan and the generation of Wing Chun and Kung Fu movies? Luxury and budget shopping? Hong Kong is so much more than these usual stereotypes. I have visited Hong Kong quite a few times in the past and I can comfortably say that it is a city that throws pleasant surprises at you. Be its easy paced life amidst the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong island, its rich natural surroundings, its amazing avenues for vegetarian food or the fact that it is a heaven for kids and family holidaymakers, I have always been surprised during my various visits to this lively city that is so full of vibrant character.

If you are looking for an international family getaway destination for the upcoming summer holidays, here are 10 interesting reasons to pack your bags and head with your family and kids to Hong Kong this summer.  The icing on the cake is the SMART deals and discounts being offered at most of these tourist attractions to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. This is in addition to the savings that you will get using the Octopus card, which you can use for all your transportation, entrance tickets and at supermarkets.

Peak Tram and the Iconic Hong Kong Skyline



The Hong Kong skyline has been immortalized across various channels all over the world and hence it is no surprise that seeing this skyline from the peak is one of the top highlights of a Hong Kong holiday. But, it is not just the view, but the overall peak experience package, which includes boarding the 120 year old peak tram, the world’s steepest funicular railway and experiencing a 7 minute journey where you see the Hong Kong harbour, the skyscrapers of Hong Kong and the entire cityscape scenery at impossible angles.

Irrespective of the time of day or night, the Hong Kong view from the peak will never disappoint you. Once you reach the top, you can also walk on the peak trail, thus soaking in the views from different locations.

Lose yourself in Hong Kong Disneyland



Photo Copyright: Disney

If you are in Hong Kong with kids, there is no missing Disneyland. After all, no kid would want to miss out on Tony Stark’s latest inventions and heroic adventures at the latest Iron Man experience (first Marvel themed ride in Disneyland), the enchanted Mickey and the wondrous book, the technology effects of Disney in the Stars,  or be lost in space at the Star Wars: Tomorrow Land Takeover. Hong Kong Disneyland offers so many immersive and unforgettable experiences that all kids would love to dream and explore all of this. What’s even better is that you can combine a Star Ferry cruise and a trip to Disneyland by boarding the Star Ferry that takes you straight into the fantasy world of Disneyland. And while you are at it, you can discover more exotic adventures at Disney Explorers Lodge, the new hotel property slated to open on April 30.

Relish the Joy of Animals at Ocean Park



Featuring a diverse selection of world-class animal attractions, thrill rides and shows, the Ocean Park offers an interesting mix of educational entertainment coupled with fun and adventure. Whether it is the scenic 1.5 km long cable car between the waterfront and the summit that offers panoramic views of Hong Kong and South China Sea, getting close to Red Pandas at the Giant Panda Adventure, feeding the dolphins, being penguin or panda keepers, watching hundreds of shimmering goldfish or enjoying kid-oriented rides at Whiskers Harbour, Ocean Park is the perfect family getaway for all animal lovers.

Soak in the Leisurely Tram Experience



With more than 100 years of legacy, the British colonial era heritage tram is a great way to experience Hong Kong Island at a leisurely pace. This world’s largest fleet of double deck tram cars offer the perfect photographic opportunity in Hong Kong at a super affordable price. Adults only pay HK$ 2.30 per trip and for children under the age of three, it is free. Like the Star Ferry, which is on water, the Hong Kong tramways is a perfect way to go back in time and experience this bustling cosmopolitan from a different perspective.

Revel in the 360 Degree Views at Sky 100

With more than 7,600 skyscrapers, Hong Kong is a living showcase of the best in international contemporary architecture. What better way to see this than from the indoor observation deck of the 100th floor of Hong Kong’s tallest building! Nicknamed as Sky 100, you can reach here in a high speed elevator that transports you 100 floors in less than a minute. And once you reach the top observation deck, you can see the Bank of China tower, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, HSBC main building, Two International Finance Centre and other incredible views of the skyline and the Victoria harbour. One can also explore the observation deck’s state of the art interactive exhibition with a fascinating multimedia tour of Hong Kong’s history and culture.

Go Photo Crazy at the Trick Eye Museum

An absolutely fabulous place to take amusing selfies and photographs, the Trick Eye museum is a beautiful collection of 3D artwork and optically illusive paintings that seem to defy all laws of Physics. This place is so crazy that it not only brings big smiles to the faces of all visitors, but it seems to have an exponential laughter effect coupled with surprise when you share these jaw dropping pictures on social media.

Star Ferry and Victoria Harbour



Founded by an Indian Parsee businessman, the 130 year old Star Ferry is another affordable attraction and a great way to experience one of the world’s most photographed harbours. Rated by National Geographic as one of ‘50 places of a lifetime’ that one should see, there is no better way than to slowly chug from Hong Kong island to Kowloon while you soak in the beauty of the Hong Kong skyline, its business district and the gorgeous looking Victoria Harbour. The Star ferry offers a great opportunity to easily experience the hustle and bustle of Kowloon that is a far cry from the glamour of Hong Kong Island all within 30 minutes.

Experience Hong Kong from inside a Helicopter



There is nothing more surreal than to see the iconic Victoria Harbour with all its boats and ferries and the famous skyscrapers of Hong Kong along with your family from inside a helicopter. Managed by celebrity pilot Michael Wong, this helicopter ride offers you the best seat in the house from possibly a local who knows Hong Kong skies better than anyone else. This is one of those Hong Kong attractions that make for a great option in case you are celebrating something like a birthday or an anniversary.



Go on a Shopping Spree



There is no trip to Hong Kong that is complete without indulging in some shopping. Whether you are indulging in some luxury designer labels at some of the fancy shopping malls in the city or going for budget shopping at one of the many street markets, such as the Ladies market in Mongkok, diversity is the norm in Hong Kong. As most of these street markets are vibrant with great local fanfare and festive atmosphere, everyone in the family, from young to old, will find something that appeal to them. And if you love gadgets, be it phones, tablets, cameras or accessories, what better place to look for than Hong Kong where you get the best gadgets for their true value prices.

Chomp on Delicious Vegetarian Food



Typically, Indian travellers to Hong Kong don’t associate this city with vegetarian food, but based on my personal experiences I beg to differ. I am not just talking about Indian vegetarian joints in Hong Kong, which are an option, but a whole new world of Cantonese and Chinese vegetarian restaurants that offer the best of both worlds – local cuisine and vegetarian food. Be it mock meats, vegetarian equivalents and desserts, a vegetarian family in Hong Kong is pretty much spoilt for choice. From iconic hot pots made from eggplant to pumpkin soup, from the popular Dim Sum and tea at Lin Heung Tea House to ‘bo lo yau’, the yummy pineapple buns and from the famous egg tarts of Tai Cheong bakery to delicious concoctions of veggies, rice, soups and other desserts, vegetarians are truly spoilt for choice in Hong Kong. Personally, I am a big fan of Dim Sum and Hot Pot. I love the communal gathering that these foods bring along.

I am pretty sure that by now you are sold on the idea of Hong Kong as a fabulous family destination. All you now have to do is book your flight tickets and your pre-authorization for Hong Kong visa, pack your bags and make use of all the deals and discounts offered on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of Hong Kong SAR and experience an amazing summer holiday in Hong Kong with your family!

Photo Courtesy: Some of the photographs in this article are courtesy of Hong Kong Tourism Board.

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