Immigration Dept Plans to Expand Smart e-Channel to HK-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge Arrivals Hall
Bastillepost · 4 SOURCESabout 7 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
The Immigration Department announced plans to expand the "Smart e-Channel" automated clearance service from the departure hall to the arrival hall at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge Hong Kong Port, following positive results since its June 2026 launch. Security Secretary Tang Ping-keung reported that more than 79,000 registrations have been recorded, representing nearly 80 percent of eligible travelers, with over 200,000 total uses. The department is also evaluating feasibility of extending the service to other control points such as the West Kowloon High Speed Rail Terminal.
Key Points
- The Smart e-Channel pilot launched on June 25, 2026 at the HK-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge departure hall, allowing travelers to complete self-service clearance without stopping
- As of November 8, 2026, over 79,000 people had registered for the service, comprising nearly 80 percent of those eligible to register
- Cumulative usage exceeded 200,000 person-times since the service began, with officials describing operations as smooth and efficient
- The government is also planning a separate "Smart Pass" pilot program at the HK-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge Hong Kong Port next month, pending coordination with mainland authorities
- For new or rebuilt border control points, authorities will actively study innovative clearance modes and technologies, with Huanggang Port serving as the first to adopt the "cooperative inspection, one-time release" model
Why It Matters
The expansion of Smart e-Channel services reflects Hong Kong's commitment to leveraging innovation to enhance cross-border mobility efficiency. As the city strengthens connectivity with the Greater Bay Area, seamless immigration procedures become crucial for both commuters and tourists. The service's high adoption rate demonstrates public readiness for technology-driven solutions, potentially paving the way for broader smart border initiatives across the region .
The expansion of Smart e-Channel services reflects Hong Kong's commitment to leveraging innovation to enhance cross-border mobility efficiency. As the city strengthens connectivity with the Greater Bay Area, seamless immigration procedures become crucial for both commuters and tourists. The service's high adoption rate demonstrates public readiness for technology-driven solutions, potentially paving the way for broader smart border initiatives across the region .