As Hong Kong prepares for the 2025 Legislative Council elections, the government is considering the establishment of additional polling stations near the border to accommodate Hongkongers residing in mainland China. Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Erick Tsang Kwok-wai, confirmed that while there are no plans to revise existing voting laws that require ballots to be cast within the city, the use of technology will be enhanced to improve election efficiency [1e60f42f].
This initiative follows the setup of border polling stations during the pandemic, which were operational for the 2021 elections at locations such as Heung Yuen Wai, Lo Wu, and Lok Ma Chau Spur Line. In the 2023 district council election, two secondary schools in Sheung Shui served as polling stations, registering about 13,000 voters [1e60f42f].
Despite the push for more accessible voting options, local election laws present challenges for remote voting, as ballots must be cast within Hong Kong. The current electoral system, which has been in place since the reforms in 2021, is viewed as effective, but the legal implications of remote voting continue to be a point of contention [1e60f42f].
In addition to these electoral developments, Hong Kong has been issuing multi-entry travel permits to its permanent residents holding foreign passports, with around 20,000 permits granted since July 1, 2024. This initiative aims to facilitate travel between Hong Kong and mainland China, allowing for multiple entries within a 90-day period [2458acc5].
However, there are still 33,000 applicants pending approval for these permits, and concerns have been raised about the limitations on banking and mobile services that new permit holders may encounter [2458acc5].
The situation for Hong Kong migrants in Taiwan remains challenging, as many seek better opportunities abroad. Canada's recent policy to grant work permits to Hong Kong permanent residency applicants has opened new avenues for those looking to escape the difficulties they face in Taiwan [f709eb04].
Furthermore, the BN(O) scheme in the UK has not met the expectations of many Hongkongers, with reports indicating struggles in securing permanent residency and facing high living costs amid economic challenges [146a6ab6].
Lastly, Hong Kong residents who have relocated to the UK are grappling with access to their retirement funds trapped in the Mandatory Provident Fund system, as early withdrawals are not permitted before the age of 65, drawing criticism from those seeking to rebuild their lives abroad [8c255513].