Primary Taiwanese news agency Central News Agency (CNA) recently reported that India has suspended the issuance of tourist visas to holders of Chinese and Hong Kong SAR passports. In the past, Hong Kong passport holders could apply for an Indian e-Visa online or submit their application in person at the Indian Consulate General office in Hong Kong. Business visas are not affected, and British National (Overseas) (BNO) passport holders are still eligible to apply for visas.
This move may be related to the tense relations between China and India. Regarding visa eligibility of Hong Kong BNO passport holders, India is probably drawing a distinction between Hong Kong SAR passport holders (regarding them as Chinese citizens) and BNO passport holders, who are British nationals.
The Indian online visa platform shows a list of countries and regions whose residents can apply for Indian visas. Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau are excluded from the list, but Taiwan residents are included.
The Consulate General of India in Hong Kong did not respond to CNA’s inquiries on this matter.
Source: CNA, September 30, 2023
https://www.cna.com.tw/news/acn/202309300053.aspx