Asia Pacific: Processing Delays, Government Closures and Travel Delays May Occur Around Lunar New Year
February 8, 2024
At a Glance
- Millions of people are expected to travel throughout East and Southeast Asia during the Lunar New Year holiday season.
- Travelers should be aware that government offices in many observing countries will be closed during this time, which will cause travel-related delays and government and business interruptions.
- Visa and permit applicants should submit applications as early as possible as applications submitted nearer to closure dates may not be accepted or acted upon until government offices reopen.
The situation
Millions of people are expected to travel throughout East and Southeast Asia during the Lunar New Year holiday season. Travel-related delays and government and business interruptions will peak around February 10.
To meet travel demand, some airlines have increased flight options, while railways have added additional trains. However, possible poor weather may exacerbate delays.
A closer look
Government offices for the following countries will be closed on the following dates:
Brunei: February 10
China: February 10-17
Hong Kong SAR: February 10-13
India: Consular posts in the region will generally be open except for those in Mainland China (February 9, 12 and 13), Hong Kong SAR and Singapore (February 12), and South Korea and Vietnam (February 9). Processing times are expected to increase by 2-3 business days during this time.
Macau: February 9 (the Macau Immigration Department will close at 12:00 local time and the Macau Labour Affairs Bureau will close at 13:00 local time)-February 14
Malaysia: February 10-12
New Zealand: Consular posts are closed as follows: China (February 12-14); Hong Kong SAR (February 12-13); Malaysia (February 10-11); Vietnam February 8-10).
Singapore: February 10-12
Taiwan: February 8-14
Vietnam: February 8-14
South Korea: February 9-12
Impact
Due to government and business closures during the Lunar New Year, travelers should make their travel plans in advance and should expect travel delays and interruptions.
Visa and permit applicants should submit applications as early as possible and should contact their processing office to determine exact closure dates and the effect on individual applications. Applications submitted nearer to closure dates may not be accepted or acted upon until government offices reopen.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen.
