Discover Opportunities with the Shenzhen-Hong Kong 72-Hour Experience Pass

The Shenzhen-Hong Kong 72-Hour Experience Pass is an innovative program inviting global professionals to experience career, lifestyle, and entrepreneurial opportunities in the Greater Bay Area. With free flights, curated itineraries, and support services, it offers a unique gateway for distinguished professionals, I&T talent, and emerging leaders to explore Shenzhen and Hong Kong.

In a world where talent mobility is increasingly shaping economic growth and innovation, cities and regions are racing to attract global minds. The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) is no exception. Known for its dynamic blend of financial strength, technological innovation, and cultural vibrancy, the GBA has become one of the most attractive destinations for ambitious professionals. Now, a bold initiative—the “Shenzhen-Hong Kong 72-Hour Experience Pass”—is offering global talent a firsthand glimpse into what this thriving region can offer.

Launched by the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone Authority in collaboration with the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, this program goes beyond a short visit. It aims to create an immersive, structured experience where participants not only explore the region but also discover concrete career and business opportunities.

What is the Shenzhen-Hong Kong 72-hour experience pass?

At its core, the “72-Hour Experience Pass” is both symbolic and practical. Symbolic, because it represents a gateway into one of the fastest-growing innovation and service hubs in the world. Practical, because it provides carefully designed itineraries, financial support, and resources for participants who want to test the waters of living and working in Shenzhen and Hong Kong.

The program offers:

• 500 free air tickets, easing international access.
• 200 seaside hotel rooms, ensuring a comfortable stay.
• 1,000 high-paying job opportunities, creating a direct bridge to long-term development.

During the three-day journey, selected participants will experience the GBA from three perspectives: career opportunities, lifestyle, and innovation ecosystems. Activities include visits to world-class universities, cutting-edge science and technology parks, and global technology firms. On the lifestyle side, participants will get a taste of the cultural and leisure offerings, from walking along Victoria Harbor to riding the Bay Glory Ferris wheel in Shenzhen.

As one official from the Qianhai Authority put it: “This is not just a pass, but also a dialogue, a window, and the starting point of a career.”

Who can apply?

The target beneficiaries of the “72-Hour Experience Pass” are overseas professionals and entrepreneurs who are interested in pursuing career development or launching ventures in Hong Kong and/or Shenzhen. Within this broad group, the program specifically focuses on three categories of talent:

1. Distinguished Professionals: Faculty members, scholars, or researchers from world-renowned universities who can bring cutting-edge academic knowledge and expertise.
2. Innovation & Technology (I&T) Talents: Research professionals, scientists, or executives from leading global technology companies who can contribute to the region’s innovation ecosystem.
3. Emerging Talent: High-achieving graduates or young professionals from prestigious universities worldwide who represent the next wave of global talent.

Applications are open to qualified candidates who meet the requirements. Selection will be based on a comprehensive assessment of academic background, work experience, research achievements, and other relevant factors. This ensures that the program attracts individuals whose expertise and potential align with the Greater Bay Area’s strategic development priorities.

(Source: Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone)

Why this program matters

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Talent is at the heart of global competition. While infrastructure, policy, and markets form the backbone of economic development, it is people—researchers, entrepreneurs, engineers, and creators—who ultimately drive progress. Recognizing this, Shenzhen and Hong Kong have joined hands to strengthen their global talent appeal.

The “72-Hour Experience Pass” is more than a short visit package. It’s a deliberate move to remove barriers that often deter international professionals from exploring new markets. By offering comprehensive logistical support—such as visa facilitation, guided services, and subsidies for accommodation and meals—the program reduces friction and creates an environment where professionals can focus on opportunities rather than hurdles.

Moreover, this initiative highlights a deeper goal: to build a globally competitive talent system. Shenzhen and Hong Kong have long complemented each other—Shenzhen with its vibrant tech and manufacturing base, Hong Kong with its global finance and service industry strengths. Together, they form a powerhouse that can rival other world-class metropolitan clusters.

(Source: Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone)

Implications for the Greater Bay Area

The 72-Hour Experience Pass is part of a larger vision. The GBA is not just a regional development project—it’s a bold experiment in cross-border integration. Qianhai, as one of its pivotal platforms, plays a central role in connecting resources, aligning policies, and creating seamless development opportunities.

In terms of “hard connectivity,” efforts have focused on transport, communication, and infrastructure linkages. High-speed trains, bridges, and efficient digital networks have already made cross-border movement easier.

In terms of “soft connectivity,” the focus has shifted toward institutional and regulatory alignment. Progress has been made in mutual recognition of professional qualifications, cross-border public services, and business registration processes. For professionals, this means fewer bureaucratic obstacles and a smoother path to career or entrepreneurial ventures.

Platforms like the Shenzhen Qianhai International Business e-Station further underscore this commitment. Acting as a “one-stop shop,” the platform provides integrated services for cross-border notarization, business setup, and talent introduction. For companies and individuals alike, it is a gateway to both mainland China and global markets.

Read also: 2025 GBA IIT Subsidy Application Kickstarted in Guangzhou

How to apply

Applying for the “72-Hour Experience Pass” has been made simple and inclusive. Interested professionals from around the world can:

1. Access the official application form via the program’s QR code.
2. Submit the completed form to the designated email address provided by either Qianhai or Hong Kong authorities.
3. Await confirmation, after which tailored itineraries and support services will be arranged.

The emphasis on customization is significant. Instead of a one-size-fits-all schedule, participants’ itineraries are designed based on their professional background and personal interests. Whether you are a fintech entrepreneur, biomedical researcher, or creative industry innovator, the experience will be curated to maximize relevance and impact.

Conclusion: A window to the future

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The “72-Hour Experience Pass” is more than an exchange program. It is a statement of intent from Shenzhen and Hong Kong: to open their doors wider, embrace international talent, and build a globally recognized innovation hub in the Greater Bay Area.

For global professionals, the opportunity is clear. Here lies not only access to one of the largest and fastest-growing markets in the world but also a supportive environment designed to enable success. With strong infrastructure, aligned policies, and a flourishing innovation ecosystem, Qianhai and the wider GBA are positioning themselves as destinations where ideas can take root and grow.

As global makers, entrepreneurs, and experts “vote with their feet,” the 72-hour experience may just be the beginning of lifelong partnerships, careers, and innovations in the heart of southern China.

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