Individuals may apply for a permit if they live, work, have relatives, or wish to travel in the Frontier Closed Area.

For the purposes of the permit, the Frontier Closed Area is divided into four zones: Lok Ma Chau, Ta Kwu Ling, Sha Tau Kok, and Chung Ying Street.

Media personnel must make particular arrangements, submit permits via the online portal, and follow separate processing timelines.

Processing times range from 3 to 12 working days, depending on the category and zone (Lok Ma Chau, Ta Kwu Ling, Sha Tau Kok, or Chung Ying Street) selected by the applicant.

Printed and electronic permits are both valid for inspections, but supporting documents, including the Hong Kong identity card or passport, must be presented physically.