HongKong

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Immigration Services

Sections

1. Overview of Immigration Services in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China with its own immigration policies and procedures. The Immigration Department of Hong Kong handles all matters related to visas, residency, and entry permits. Hong Kong offers a variety of visa types depending on the purpose of your visit, ranging from short-term visits to long-term residency.

2. Visa Types in Hong Kong

The type of visa you need depends on your purpose of travel. Below are the main categories:

A. Visit/Transit Visa

  • Purpose: For short-term visits (tourism, family visits, business meetings) or transit through Hong Kong.
  • Duration: Typically 7 to 180 days, depending on nationality.
  • Who Needs It: Nationals of certain countries (e.g., India, Russia) require a visa, while others (e.g., U.S., EU countries) enjoy visa-free entry for a specified period.

B. Employment Visa

  • Purpose: For individuals seeking to work in Hong Kong.
  • Subcategories:
    • General Employment Policy (GEP): For professionals with special skills, knowledge, or experience not readily available in Hong Kong.
    • Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP): For skilled workers from Mainland China.
    • Working Holiday Visa: For young people (18-30 years) from specific countries to work and holiday in Hong Kong for up to 12 months.

C. Investment Visa

  • Purpose: For entrepreneurs who wish to establish or join a business in Hong Kong.
  • Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate a viable business plan, sufficient financial resources, and potential economic benefits to Hong Kong.

D. Student Visa

  • Purpose: For individuals pursuing full-time studies in Hong Kong.
  • Eligibility: Must have an offer from a recognized educational institution.

E. Dependant Visa

  • Purpose: For family members (spouse, children, or parents) of Hong Kong residents or visa holders.
  • Eligibility: The sponsor must demonstrate the ability to support dependants financially.

F. Permanent Residency (Right of Abode)

  • Purpose: For individuals who have lived in Hong Kong for at least 7 continuous years.
  • Benefits: Permanent residents can live, work, and study in Hong Kong without restrictions.

G. Other Visa Types

  • Training Visa: For short-term training programs.
  • Domestic Helper Visa: For hiring foreign domestic workers.
  • Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS): For high-earning professionals or graduates from top global universities.

3. Application Procedures

The application process varies by visa type but generally involves the following steps:

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

  • Check the specific requirements for your visa type on the Hong Kong Immigration Department website.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

  • Gather all necessary documents (see Section 4 below).

Step 3: Submit Application

  • Applications can be submitted:
    • Online: Through the Hong Kong Immigration Departmentโ€™s e-Visa platform.
    • By Mail: Send the application to the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
    • In Person: Submit at the Immigration Department or Chinese diplomatic missions abroad.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

  • Fees vary by visa type (see Section 5 below).

Step 5: Wait for Processing

  • Processing times depend on the visa type (see Section 6 below).

Step 6: Receive Visa/Entry Permit

  • Approved applicants will receive a visa label or e-Visa, which must be affixed to their passport.

4. Required Documentation

The documents required depend on the visa type. Below is a general list:

A. Visit/Transit Visa

  • Completed application form (ID 1003A).
  • Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months).
  • Recent passport-sized photo.
  • Proof of travel (e.g., flight itinerary, hotel booking).
  • Financial proof (e.g., bank statements).

B. Employment Visa

  • Completed application form (ID 990A and ID 990B).
  • Passport copy.
  • Employment contract and job offer letter.
  • Proof of qualifications (e.g., degrees, certificates).
  • Employerโ€™s business registration certificate.

C. Investment Visa

  • Business plan.
  • Proof of financial resources.
  • Company registration documents.

D. Student Visa

  • Completed application form (ID 995A).
  • Admission letter from a recognized institution.
  • Proof of financial support.
  • Passport copy.

E. Dependant Visa

  • Completed application form (ID 997).
  • Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate).
  • Sponsorโ€™s financial proof and employment details.

5. Costs

Visa fees are subject to change, but as of October 2023, the following apply:

  • Visit/Transit Visa: HKD 230.
  • Employment Visa: HKD 230.
  • Investment Visa: HKD 230.
  • Student Visa: HKD 230.
  • Dependant Visa: HKD 230.
  • Working Holiday Visa: HKD 230.

Payment can be made online, by bank draft, or in person.

6. Processing Times

Processing times vary depending on the visa type:

  • Visit/Transit Visa: 4-6 weeks.
  • Employment Visa: 4-8 weeks.
  • Investment Visa: 4-8 weeks.
  • Student Visa: 6-8 weeks.
  • Dependant Visa: 6-8 weeks.
  • Permanent Residency: 6-12 months.

7. Local Considerations

  • Language: English and Chinese (Cantonese) are official languages. Most immigration forms and services are available in both languages.
  • Health Insurance: While not mandatory for most visas, it is advisable to have health insurance, as medical costs in Hong Kong can be high.
  • Housing: Hong Kong has a high cost of living, particularly for housing. Plan your budget accordingly.
  • Cultural Etiquette: Hong Kong is a blend of Eastern and Western cultures. Respect for local customs and traditions is important.
  • Public Transport: Hong Kong has an efficient public transport system, including the MTR (subway), buses, and ferries.

8. Useful Contacts

  • Hong Kong Immigration Department:
  • Chinese Diplomatic Missions: For visa applications outside Hong Kong, contact the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate.

This guide provides a detailed overview of immigration services in Hong Kong. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official Hong Kong Immigration Department website or consult with a legal expert if needed.