Nationals of the Republic of Gambia would need a visa to enter Hong Kong, including those who remain on the airside in transit, from next Thursday, Hong Kong's Immigration Department said on Friday.

At present, Gambians may visit Hong Kong visa-free for a stay of up to 90 days.

"Hong Kong has all along adopted an open visa policy, under which nationals of about 170 countries and territories may visit Hong Kong visa-free for periods ranging from seven to 180 days," an Immigration Department spokesman said.

"With a view to ensuring a proper balance between the facilitation of genuine visitors and the need to safeguard the integrity of immigration control, the visa policy is subject to constant review and changes will be introduced if circumstances so warrant," the spokesman said.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) passport holders need a visa to visit Gambia.

The spokesman advised HKSAR passport holders to check with the Gambian authorities on the latest visa requirements before visiting the west African country.