Hong Kong vs Mainland ID Comparison | Generated by AI
I’ll search for current information about the differences between Hong Kong and mainland China ID cards regarding education, visas, and other key aspects.Based on my research, here’s a comprehensive comparison between Hong Kong ID and mainland China ID regarding education, visas, and other key aspects:
Identity Documents
Hong Kong ID Card:
- Issued to all residents aged 11+ who stay in Hong Kong for more than 180 days
- Two main types: Permanent and Non-permanent
- Hong Kong permanent identity card states that the holder has the right of abode in Hong Kong
- Does not expire during residency in Hong Kong
Mainland China Resident ID Card:
- Required for all citizens over the age of 16
- Lists ethnicity, date of birth, and permanent domicile (hukou registration)
- The only acceptable legal document used to obtain resident permits or driving licenses, open bank accounts, register for mobile phone numbers, apply for tertiary education
Travel Between Hong Kong and Mainland China
For Hong Kong ID Holders:
- Cannot use Hong Kong ID to enter mainland China
- Chinese nationals with Hong Kong permanent residency need a Home Return Permit (Mainland Travel Permit) to travel to mainland China, which allows indefinite stay for any purpose including work and study
- Non-Chinese permanent residents of Hong Kong are allowed to apply for a permit to visit mainland China for up to 90 days, for everything other than to work, study, or claim benefits (introduced July 2024)
For Mainland China ID Holders:
- Need exit-entry permits to visit Hong Kong
- Face more restrictions on staying in Hong Kong long-term
Education
Hong Kong Permanent Residents:
- Eligible for subsidized “local student” university places in Hong Kong
- The government is reviewing the definition of local students and may require a minimum residency period after some mainland professionals were accused of exploiting talent schemes to secure cheaper university tuition
- For mainland China applicants to Hong Kong universities, the enrollment rate was 1 student for every 21 applications (as of 2016)
- Can access mainland China universities with Home Return Permit
Mainland China ID Holders:
- Direct access to mainland China’s education system
- Treated as international/non-local students in Hong Kong, paying higher tuition fees
- Mainland students who graduate from Hong Kong universities may apply to stay/work in Hong Kong under special arrangements
Visa-Free Travel & International Access
Hong Kong Passport (for permanent residents):
- Much more widely accepted for international visa-free travel than Chinese passports issued by the Mainland government
- Access to significantly more countries without visas
Mainland China Passport:
- More limited visa-free access internationally
- Foreign permanent residents in China can get a “Green Card” that allows multiple entry and exit of Chinese border without additional visa procedures
Social Benefits
Mainland China Permanent Residents (foreigners with Green Card):
- Access to state (free) education for children, unrestricted employment opportunities, eligibility for professional awards, grants and qualifications
- Cardholders’ accompanying children are allowed to enter a school for the nine-year compulsory education
The key difference is that Hong Kong operates under “One Country, Two Systems,” meaning Hong Kong ID holders and mainland ID holders are treated differently in each jurisdiction despite being part of China, requiring special permits to cross between regions.