HONG KONG VISAS

Investment as Entrepreneurs

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) allows eligible entrepreneurs to apply for entry or stay in Hong Kong under the General Employment Policy (GEP) to establish or join a business.

Key Eligibility Requirements

Applications are assessed on an individual basis. Applicants generally must:

• Have no security concerns or serious criminal record.
• Have a good educational background - normally a first degree in a relevant field. In suitable cases, relevant technical qualifications, professional experience, skills and achievements may also be accepted.
• Demonstrate that their business or proposed investment can make a substantial contribution to Hong Kong’s economy.

The Immigration Department considers a range of factors, including:

• Business plan: A detailed three-year plan covering the business model, market analysis, positioning, strategy and sales targets, supported by three-year financial forecasts.
• Business turnover: Existing businesses should provide financial records demonstrating turnover and profitability. New businesses should provide realistic turnover forecasts.
• Financial resources: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient personal and/or corporate funding to establish and sustainably operate the business.
• Investment amount: Evidence of the capital invested or to be invested in Hong Kong is required.
• Local employment: Applicants should explain the organisational structure and demonstrate the number and level of jobs created for local employees.
• New technology or skills: Where applicable, applicants should explain how the proposed technology or skills will contribute to innovation and Hong Kong’s development as a knowledge-based economy.

The Immigration Department may consult relevant government departments or professional bodies when assessing the viability and economic contribution of a proposed business.

Start-up Businesses

Entrepreneurs establishing or joining a start-up may also qualify where the start-up is supported by a government-backed programme with a rigorous selection process and the applicant is a proprietor, partner or key researcher.

Examples include programmes administered by InvestHK, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, Cyberport, the Innovation and Technology Commission and the Hong Kong Design Centre.

Local Sponsor

Applicants must nominate a local sponsor in Hong Kong. The sponsor may be a company or an individual.

Key Supporting Documents

Applicants may need to provide:

• Recent photograph and valid travel document.
• Hong Kong Identity Card, if applicable.
• Academic and professional qualifications and evidence of relevant experience.
• Personal and company financial records.
• A detailed three-year investment/business plan and financial forecasts.
• Evidence of existing business activities, contracts or prospective business.
• Company financial statements and audited accounts, where applicable.
• Company background and business information.
• Office, showroom or warehouse tenancy documentation.
• Evidence of local jobs created.
• Business Registration Certificate and Companies Registry documents, where applicable.
• Relevant business licences or regulatory approvals.
• Evidence of support from a qualifying government-backed start-up programme, where applicable.
• Additional residence or identity documents for applicants from Macao, Taiwan or overseas Chinese PRC passport holders, where applicable.

Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS)

Objective:

The scheme aims to attract highly skilled or talented individuals to settle in Hong Kong, enhancing its economic competitiveness. Applicants do not need a prior job offer. Successful applicants can bring their spouse, same-sex partner, or children under 18, provided they can support themselves financially.

Selection Process:

1. Prerequisites: Applicants must meet basic eligibility requirements, including age, financial stability, good character, and education.

2. Assessment Routes: 

• General Points Test: Applicants are assessed based on 12 criteria, including age, education, language skills, work experience, income, and business ownership. A passing threshold of 6 out of 12 is required to proceed.
• Achievement-based Points Test: For exceptional talent with outstanding achievements (e.g., Nobel Prize, Olympic medal). Meeting any one criterion qualifies for further assessment.

3. Selection Exercise: Qualified applicants are evaluated holistically, considering socio-economic needs, background, and credentials. Only those selected will be issued a visa to stay in Hong Kong.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Age 18 or above.
• Demonstrate the ability to support oneself and dependents financially.
• No criminal or adverse immigration record.
• Normally hold a recognized degree or demonstrate professional/technical qualifications and achievements.

Note:

The passing threshold and assessment criteria may change without notice. Applicants should assess their credentials carefully before applying.

New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (New CIES)

Overview:

The New CIES aims to attract high-net-worth individuals to Hong Kong by encouraging significant capital investment. This scheme supports the development of Hong Kong’s asset, wealth management, and financial services sectors.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Age 18 or above.
• Eligible applicants include:
  - Foreign nationals.
  - Chinese nationals with foreign permanent residence.
  - Macao residents.
  - Taiwanese residents.
• Demonstrate net assets or equity of at least $30 million HKD (or equivalent in foreign currency) over the past six months.
• Make an investment of at least $30 million HKD (or equivalent) in permissible assets.
• Have no adverse immigration or security record. Capable of supporting themselves and dependents without relying on public funds or returns from investments.

Permissible Assets:

• Equities - shares of companies that are listed on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong.
• Debt securities - debt securities listed on the SEHK.
• Certificates of deposits - certificates of deposits denominated in HKD or RMB issued by authorised institutions.
• Subordinated debt - subordinated debt denominated in HKD or RMB issued by authorised institutions.
• Eligible collective investment schemes - Securities and Futures Commission (“SFC”) authorised funds managed by corporations licensed by or institutions registered with the SFC.
• Ownership interest in limited partnership funds (“LPFs”) - registered under the Limited Partnership Fund Ordinance of Hong Kong).

Application Process:

1. 1. Verification of Net Assets: Applicants must first approach InvestHK for verification and obtain a Certifying Proof for Fulfillment of Net Asset Requirement.
2. 2. Application Submission: Submit an entry application to the Immigration Department (ImmD) within the validity period of the verification certificate.
3. 3. Investment Verification: After committing to the investment within the approved timeframe, applicants must verify fulfillment of investment requirements through InvestHK.
4. 4. Final Approval: Once verified, applicants receive a Certifying Proof for Fulfillment of Investment Requirements. ImmD will then assess the application, and upon approval, grant residence for up to 24 months, conditional on continued compliance.

Supporting Documents:

• Recent photograph
• Valid travel document
• Verification certificates from InvestHK.
• Hong Kong, Macao, or Taiwan identity documents (if applicable)
• Proof of foreign permanent residence.
• Police clearance certificate issued within the last 6 months.

Student Visa

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must be admitted to a registered private school or post-secondary institution in Hong Kong offering full-time, locally-accredited courses, including short-term or part-time postgraduate programmes.
• For exchange students, studies must be in full-time local programmes at sub-degree level (up to 6 months) or at undergraduate/above level (up to 1 year).
• For non-local courses, enrollment must be in a registered non-local higher education or professional course.

Age Limits:

• 5 years 8 months to 11 years for primary education.
• Under 20 years for secondary education.

Application Requirements:

• A school acceptance letter.
• Proof of financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses without work or public assistance.
• Valid travel documents and other supporting documents, including proof of accommodation and guardianship if under 18.

Exclusions:

• Chinese residents of Mainland China and Taiwan.
• Nationals of Afghanistan, Cuba, Laos, North Korea, Nepal, and Vietnam.

Processing Time:

Approximately six weeks after submitting all required documents.

Extension of Stay:

• Full-time students in locally-accredited programmes can stay for the programme’s duration, up to six years.
• Other students may stay for up to 12 months or the length of the Extensions are possible if applicants continue to meet eligibility criteria and apply within four weeks before the original stay expires.

Conditions of Stay:

• Must study at a specified institution and undertake the approved course.
• No employment, business activities, or unpaid work are allowed, except for internships related to their studies (up to one academic year or one-third of the course duration).

Training Visa

The Hong Kong Training Visa allows individuals to enter Hong Kong for up to 12 months to undertake specialised training that is not available in their country or territory of residence.

Key Eligibility Requirements

Applicants should:

• Have no security concerns or serious criminal record.
• Be a genuine applicant sponsored by a genuine, well-established company.
• Have a signed training contract with the sponsoring company.
• Undertake training at the sponsor’s premises for the agreed period.
• Have a training programme with a justified duration and clear content.
• Have the sponsor provide written guarantees for the applicant’s maintenance and return to their place of residence.

Main Supporting Documents

Applicant:

• Photograph and valid travel document.
• Academic qualifications and relevant work experience.
• Hong Kong ID and other residence/identity documents, where applicable.

Sponsoring company:

• Training contract.
• Business Registration Certificate.
• Evidence of financial standing and company background.
• Additional business plan for newly established companies, where required.

Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS)

The Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS) is a fast-track route for eligible Hong Kong companies to employ overseas technology professionals for research and development (R&D) work.

Key Requirements

Applicants generally must:

• Be employed full-time in Hong Kong by a company with an approved ITC quota.
• Undertake primarily R&D work in a technology field.
• Hold a relevant STEM degree from a qualifying top-ranked university.
• Have at least one year of relevant experience if holding only a bachelor’s degree; experience is generally not required for master’s or doctoral graduates.
• Receive a salary at or above the prevailing Hong Kong market level.
• Meet the conditions of the company’s quota and normal immigration requirements.

Candidates with exceptional technical skills or professional experience may be considered even if they do not meet the standard academic requirements.

Main Documents

Applicants generally provide their passport, photograph, academic and experience evidence. The employer provides the ITC quota approval, employment contract/appointment letter and, where required, Business Registration Certificate.

Processing Time

Applications normally take two weeks to process once all required documents and fees have been received. Approval is subject to the Immigration Department’s assessment.

Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP)

The ASMTP enables Mainland Chinese professionals with valuable skills, knowledge, or experience not readily available in Hong Kong to work as professionals in the HKSAR. It is quota-free and not sector-specific.

Eligibility Criteria:

1. 1. No security or serious crime record.
2. 2. Good education background, typically a first degree or relevant technical qualifications and experience.
3. 3. Confirmed job vacancy relevant to the applicant's qualifications or experience, not easily filled locally.
4. 4. Competitive remuneration package aligned with market standards.

Processing Time:

Approximately four weeks after receiving all required documents and fees.

Supporting Documents - Applicant:

• Recent photograph
• Valid travel document or PRC resident identity card (if no travel document)
• Hong Kong Identity Card (if any)
• Proof of academic qualifications and work experience
• Consent letter from current employer or Mainland authorities (for Mainland residents)

Supporting Documents - Employer:

• Employment contract or appointment letter
• Business Registration Certificate
• Proof of financial standing (financial reports, tax returns)
• Company background details and, if applicable, a detailed business plan (for new companies within 12 months)

Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents (Technical Professionals Stream)

This scheme allows skilled professionals from Mainland China to work in Hong Kong in specific trades listed on the “Technical Professional List” (TP List). It aims to address manpower shortages in key skilled trades by enabling young and experienced non-degree professionals to apply for entry.

Key Points:

• Applications are quota-based and limited to trades on the TP List.
• Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including no security concerns, age between 18-40, relevant qualifications, a confirmed job offer, and a remuneration package aligned with market standards.
• Applicants must have the necessary professional or technical skills, work experience, and relevant licenses or registration if required.

Eligibility:

• Mainland Chinese residents and overseas Chinese with PRC passports, who have either permanent residence abroad or have resided overseas for at least one year before applying, can apply.
• Applicants must meet normal immigration requirements, including valid travel documents and a clean criminal record.

APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC)

The ABTC enhances business travel within the APEC region by allowing multiple visits of 2-3 months without visas, streamlining entry to participating economies.

Key Features:

• Valid for 5 years.
• Enables use of special service lanes for faster immigration clearance at airports in participating economies, including Hong Kong, Canada, and the US (subject to conditions).
• Does not guarantee entry; travelers still must meet immigration requirements and hold valid passports and visas if needed.

Participating ABTC Economies:

Australia, Brunei, Chile, China, Hong Kong (China), Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, Thailand, Vietnam.

Eligibility:

• Hong Kong residents with a valid Hong Kong permanent identity card and passport.
• Must not have been denied entry to any participating economy or convicted of a crime.
• Must be a genuine business traveler engaged in trade, services, or investment activities (not entertainers or artists).
• Need to travel frequently within the region for business.

Application Process:

• Complete the application form (ID 900) with a recent photo, photocopies of HKID, passport, and a supporting letter from your employer.
• Optionally, nominate up to five priority economies for faster processing.
• Submit the application, then collect the ABTC in person or via a representative with original passport for verification.

Visa Consultants in Hong Kong

VisaConnect provides professional assistance with Hong Kong visa and immigration matters, including:

• Hong Kong visas and entry permits
• Visa renewals and extensions
• Dependant visas
• Hong Kong Permanent Residence applications
• HKID Card applications
• Citizenship and HKSAR Passport application or renewal

Our Services

We can assist throughout the application process, including:

• Initial free visa assessment
• Advice on eligibility and supporting documents
• Preparation of supporting documents and document templates
• Completion of application forms
• Submission of applications to the HKSAR Immigration Department
• Responding to requests for further information or documents
• Ongoing guidance and advice until a visa decision is made
• See our Hong Kong Visas Blog Page

Hong Kong Office

21st Floor, CMA Building
64 Connaught Road Central
Hong Kong

Telephone: (+852) 3840 9107

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the processing time for the Top Talent Pass Scheme?

Standard processing time for th eTop Talent pass Scheme (TTPS) is 4 weeks. See the Immigration Department of HKSAR website for confirmation:

What are the requirements for including a Dependant under the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (New CIES)?

There must be reasonable proof of a genuine relationship between the dependant and the sponsor, no known record to the detriment of the dependant and the sponsor can support the dependant’s living above the subsistence level and provide them with suitable accommodation in the HKSAR.

What is the processing time for Investment as Entrepreneurs in HKSAR?

Usually the Investment as Entrepreneurs applications are decided in 4 weeks.

What is the required Educational background for an Applicant applying for the General Employment Policy (GEP)?

Applicants must generally have a University degree qualification in a specific Area, but in certain circumstances, it may be acceptable to have Technical qualifications, professional skills, work experience and Achievements in an Area.

How can an Overseas Chinese National apply for GEP?

The Chinese National must have permanent residence overseas or the Applicant has been residing overseas for at least 1 year before applying for GEP.

Does an Applicant need to study STEM at a Top University to be eligible to apply for the Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS)?

Yes, Applicants must be degree-holders in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) from a well-recognised university, which is ranked in the top 100 universities for STEM-related subjects.

If an Applicant is applying for Investment as an Entrepreneur, with a Start-Up business, how can an Applicant get support in HKSAR?

Applicants need to prove that they have support and government-backing from one of the following reputable and recognised HKSAR Government-backed programmes:

1. 1. StartmeupHK Venture Programme - administered by InvestHK.
2. 2. Incu-App, Incu-Bio and Incu-Tech programmes - administered by the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation.
3. 3. Cyberport Incubation Programme.
4. 4. Enterprise Support Scheme - administered by the Innovation and Technology Commission.
5. 5. Design Incubation Programme - administered by the Hong Kong Design Centre.

I am applying for the GEP Visa, can I include my Dependants?

Yes, but you need to just prove that you have a genuine relationship, such as Marriage certificate and demonstrate that you can support your Dependants.

Once I have a Hong Kong Visa, do I need to apply for a Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID)?

Yes, all Hong Kong residents 11 years and over as well as anyone who has been admitted to stay in Hong Kong for longer than 180 days must apply for a HKID.

How soon after arriving in Hong Kong should I apply for a HKID?

You must register for a HK Identity card within 30 days of arrival in Hong Kong.

What is the Processing time and Fee for a HK Identity Card?

The processing time is 5 working days and there is No fee.

What are the Pre-requisite requirements for the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme?

Prerequisites are: Age 18 or over, meet the Financial requirement, Good Character and the APplicant must have Basic Academic qualifications, usually a first degree.

For the Achievement-based Points Test for the QMAS, what is considered an Award of Exceptional Achievement?

Awards, such as:  Olympic medal, Nobel prize, national/international awards.

For the General Points for the QMAS, an Applicant's Masters or Doctoral degree must be relevant to STEM. What is STEM?

STEM stands for Science, technology, engineering or mathematics.

What Assessable Income do you need for the General Points Test under QMAS to get an Extension of Stay?

An Assessable income for salaries tax of not less than $2 million HKD in the previous year of assessment.

To apply for the Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS), can my degree be from any University?

No, the Applicant must be a a degree-holder in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) from a well-recognised university, which is among the top 100 universities for STEM-related subjects. See Ranking tables, such as the 'Times Higher Education' ranking table.

What is the Investment amount foir the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (NEW CIES)?

The Applicant must make an investment of not less than $30 million HKD Net into acceptable investments assets.

Does InvestHK need to provide certification of your Net Assets and of your Investment in Permissible Hong Kong Assets for the New CIES?

Yes, for the New CIES, you must provide Certifying Proof for Fulfillment of Net Asset Requirement issued by InvestHK and Certifying Proof for Fulfillment of Investment Requirements issued by InvestHK.

What application forms must be completed for a Student Visa and what is the address where the Student visa application and supporting documents are submitted?

Completed and signed application forms,  ID 995A  and ID 995B sent to:

Receipt and Despatch Sub-Unit
Ground Floor, Administration Tower,
Immigration Headquarters,
61 Po Yap Road, Tseung Kwan O,
New Territories

What are the Conditions of Stay for a Student visa in Hong Kong?

To qualify as a student, an individual must be enrolled at a specific approved school, university, or educational institution and undertake an approved course of study. Students are not permitted to engage in any employment, whether paid or unpaid, or establish/join any business activities.

However, full-time students enrolled in locally-accredited programs at undergraduate level or above, with a study period of at least one academic year, may undertake internships under certain conditions:

• The internship must be related to their study or curriculum.
• It must be arranged or endorsed by their educational institution.
• The internship duration is limited to either one academic year or one-third of the full-time academic program’s normal duration, whichever is shorter.