SFC Extends Crypto Professionals Visit Period by 50% to 45 Days

The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of China Hong Kong has announced a significant extension to the permissible activity period for visiting crypto professionals. Effective from July 15, 2025, the SFC has increased the duration from 30 to 45 days per calendar year. This move is aimed at providing greater flexibility and attracting overseas talent to the region. The extension allows licensed itinerant professionals to engage in virtual asset services for a longer period, facilitating a more dynamic and inclusive environment for crypto professionals.

This decision by the SFC is a strategic response to the growing demand for virtual asset services and the need to foster a competitive and innovative financial ecosystem. By extending the period, the SFC aims to enhance the region's appeal to international crypto professionals, who can now spend more time providing their expertise without the constraints of a shorter visit duration. This flexibility is expected to encourage more professionals to consider China Hong Kong as a hub for their activities, thereby enriching the local market with diverse skills and knowledge.

The extension also reflects the SFC's commitment to staying at the forefront of regulatory developments in the crypto space. By adapting its policies to accommodate the evolving needs of the industry, the SFC demonstrates its proactive approach to regulation, which is crucial for maintaining the region's status as a leading financial center. This move is likely to have a positive impact on the overall development of the virtual asset sector in China Hong Kong, as it creates a more conducive environment for innovation and growth.

The decision to extend the period for visiting crypto professionals is a clear indication of the SFC's efforts to create a more attractive and flexible regulatory framework. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to position China Hong Kong as a global leader in virtual asset services. By providing greater flexibility to visiting professionals, the SFC is not only enhancing the region's competitiveness but also fostering a more dynamic and inclusive financial ecosystem. This move is expected to attract more talent to the region, further strengthening its position as a hub for virtual asset services.