Hong Kong Immigration & Relocation

Hong Kong’s standing as a global financial center is built on its open policies for skilled professionals. The city welcomes entrepreneurs, investors, and talent worldwide, including those seeking incorporation in Hong Kong. However, navigating the Hong Kong immigration process can be challenging.
You need a Hong Kong work visa to take advantage of business opportunities, such as starting a new venture. You must meet both general and specific visa requirements.

Startupr simplifies Hong Kong relocation for businesses and entrepreneurs, allowing them to focus on core activities, including incorporation. We handle the complexities of immigration to Hong Kong, providing personalized attention to each visa application and conducting a thorough review of every case to deliver tailored guidance. We support expatriates and their families with all Hong Kong visa and permit needs. Our experience with the Immigration Department ensures a smooth transition.

Here’s a breakdown of our Hong Kong immigration services:

• General Employment Policy (GEP) visa applications
• Dependent visa applications (for those entering under the GEP)
• Visa extension applications (Hong Kong)
• Hong Kong Permanent Residence applications
  Let’s delve into the specifics of each of these Hong Kong visa services.

What is the General Employment Working Visa Policy in Hong Kong?

A general employment work visa is for skilled applicants willing to work in Hong Kong. It is also for those entrepreneurs who want to set up their business through a working visa in Hong Kong. Startupr helps Hong Kong business owners apply for work visas. Applicants must meet the following criteria to qualify under the General Employment Policy.

Employment Visa in Hong Kong: Criteria and Application Tips for Entrepreneurs

• The applicant should have a good education and a first-class degree in the relevant field. Sometimes, strong technical skills, relevant experience, and achievements can be supported by documents.
• The applicant should have a crime-free record.
• The total compensation package must be competitive with Hong Kong market rates.
• Applicants must have a valid job offer relevant to their qualifications and experience. More importantly, the offer should be genuine; the local workforce does not fill it.
• We handle visa applications for companies incorporated in Hong Kong. These companies must have at least one year of audited financial statements.

Need help with a work visa to start a GEP business? Startupr manages all procedures, providing expert advice and support from start to finish.

How do I apply for Dependant? Entry under GEP

Dependent visas are available under the GEP for those relocating to Hong Kong, a leading free economy. Dependent and employment visa applications can be processed concurrently. Applicants may apply for dependent visas before or after the primary applicant’s GEP visa is granted. Dependent visas are granted when the following criteria are met.

Who is classified as a dependent in Hong Kong?

A dependent is usually the applicant’s spouse and unmarried dependent children.

• Spouse: This refers to a legally married husband or wife of the primary applicant.
• Unmarried Dependent Children: This includes the primary applicant’s natural or legally adopted children who are:
  • Unmarried, and
  • Under the age of 18, or
  • Between the ages of 18 and 24 and are full-time students dependent on the primary applicant for financial support or
  • Over the age of 24 and are physically or mentally incapacitated and dependent on the primary applicant for financial support.

Criteria for Dependents

• Dependent applicants are required to provide proof of a genuine relationship between the primary applicant and the dependent before applying under GEP. This proof can be any document, such as a Marriage certificate or birth Certificate.
• The aim of immigrating shouldn’t reveal any harmful effects.
• The primary applicant must financially support the dependent and provide suitable accommodation.
• Startupr offers expert help preparing your visa documents.

Application for Extension of Stay in Hong Kong

People who are legally in Hong Kong and have a valid visa can apply to extend their stay. This usually includes work visa holders. However, they must meet specific eligibility criteria. These usually connect to current jobs, business activities, or factors linked to the original visa approval. It’s crucial to check the specific requirements related to your visa type.

Who Can Apply for an Extension of Stay?

Generally, individuals who have been lawfully admitted to Hong Kong and whose current visa is still valid can apply for an extension of stay. This typically includes work visa holders, but specific eligibility criteria, which often relate to continued employment, business operations, or other factors relevant to the original visa grant, must be met. It’s crucial to check the specific requirements related to your visa type.

Documents Required for a Hong Kong Extension of Stay Application

The required documents can vary, but generally include:

• A completed application form (ID(E)91)
• A copy of your current passport and visa
• Proof of ongoing work is needed. This can be a letter from your employer that confirms your job and salary. If you own a business, provide proof that it’s still operating.
• Financial proof demonstrating you can support yourself during your extended stay
• Any other documents specific to your visa category (e.g., proof of accommodation)

Contact the Immigration Department of Hong Kong or consult with an immigration specialist. They can provide the latest and most accurate document checklist for your situation.

How Do I Apply for a Hong Kong Visa Extension?

You can apply online at the Immigration Department’s website or in person at their office. It’s crucial to apply at least four weeks before your current visa expires, and applying early is strongly advised to avoid any potential issues.

Startupr’s Assistance with Your Hong Kong Visa Extension

Navigating the Hong Kong visa extension process can be complex. Startupr can provide expert guidance and support with:

• Determining your eligibility for an extension
• Preparing and compiling all necessary documents
• Submitting your application accurately and on time
• Communicating with the Immigration Department on your behalf

Contact Startupr today

Application for Hong Kong Permanent Residence

The next section is for people who wish to apply for permanent residence visas and stay in Hong Kong indefinitely.
If you’ve worked in Hong Kong for seven years with a professional work visa, you can apply for Permanent Residence or “Right of Abode“. Startupr will help you throughout this process. We help Hong Kong companies apply for Permanent Residence visas. To qualify, they need at least one year of audited financial statements.

What is the “continuous residence” requirement?

“Continuous residence” means you have lived in Hong Kong for at least seven years, with few breaks. Short trips for travel or business are often fine. However, long absences from Hong Kong could impact your eligibility. The Immigration Department looks at each case on its own. They think about why someone was absent and how long they were gone.

Documents required for the Permanent Residence in Hong Kong application

The required documents typically include:

• Completed application form (ID 481A)
• Copy of your passport and current visa
• Proof of continuous residence in Hong Kong for seven years (e.g., employment contracts, tax records, rental agreements)
• Proof of financial self-sufficiency
• Other supporting documents as required by the Immigration Department
• You can apply for Permanent Residence after you have fulfilled the seven-year requirement.

It’s best to talk to an immigration specialist or check the Immigration Department’s website. This way, you’ll get the most accurate and current document checklist.

Can my family members apply for Permanent Residence with me?

Your spouse and unmarried dependent children can apply for Permanent Residence with you or after you get it. They need to meet certain eligibility criteria. This includes having a valid relationship with you and showing financial dependence.

Do I need to give up my original nationality to obtain permanent Hong Kong residency?

No. Hong Kong allows dual nationality. You do not need to renounce your original nationality to become a Hong Kong Permanent Resident.

Startupr’s Support for Hong Kong Permanent Residence Applications

Startupr can provide expert guidance and support throughout your Permanent Residence application, including:

• Assessing your eligibility
• Preparing and reviewing your application documents
• Submitting your application to the Immigration Department
• Communicating with the Immigration Department on your behalf
• Providing ongoing support and answering your questions

Contact Startupr today for a consultation about your Hong Kong Permanent Residence application.

How long does the Hong Kong Immigration process take?

Once all required documents are received, visa and permit applications typically take 4-6 weeks to process. However, this timeframe may be extended if the Immigration Department requests additional information. Processing will not begin until all necessary documents and information have been submitted.

What are Startupr fees for the Hong Kong relocation and Immigration process?

• Base Fee: USD 1880 (Which includes 12 hours of admin support and handling mail from the immigration department. )
• For Visa Application, fees will be USD 30 (HKD 230 Government Fees)

Hong Kong company VISA for founders or employees

Note: If the time of your work exceeds 10 hours, an additional hourly fee will be charged from you.

For visa applications, we serve Hong Kong incorporated companies. These companies must have at least one year of audited financial statements. For further clarification, please contact our immigration support team.

Due to specific immigration regulations, we are unable to process applications from citizens of the following countries: Afghanistan, Cuba, Laos, Nepal, Vietnam, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Mali, North Korea, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Trinidad and Tobago, Vanuatu, Yemen, Bahamas, Botswana, Cambodia, Ghana, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Tunisia.

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FAQs

We know that maybe you may have more questions related to Hong Kong visa policy. That’s why we add more frequently asked questions and answers for them. If you are still looking for an excellent answer, please contact us.

What language should my supporting documents be in?

Documents must be in English and Chinese. Non-English or Chinese documents require a certified translation. The translation must be certified by a qualified translator.

What is the minimum salary for a Hong Kong work visa?

There is no official minimum salary. However, the compensation must be competitive and appropriate for the position and qualifications. This demonstrates the applicant’s valuable skills, knowledge, or experience.

Do EU citizens need a visa for Hong Kong?

Many EU citizens can visit Hong Kong visa-free for tourism or business. The length of stay allowed varies depending on nationality. However, a work visa is required for employment.

Can I convert my tourist visa to a work visa in Hong Kong?

Generally, no. It is typically impossible to convert a tourist visa to a work visa in Hong Kong. You must usually apply for a work visa from outside Hong Kong.

Can I use a Hong Kong employment working visa in China as well? Can I enter China with a Hong Kong visa?

No. A Hong Kong work visa is only valid for Hong Kong. You will need a separate visa for mainland China. A Hong Kong visa does not grant entry to mainland China.

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Disclaimer

The Hong Kong Immigration Department can decide if your application is successful. Startupr itself is neither responsible nor liable for any Immigration decision.

Most customers might get their working visa in 4 weeks. However, most clients usually take about 4 to 6 weeks. In some cases, if Immigration requires further information or a local holiday occurs, there can be several days’ delay.

If you hire Startupr services for your application, we focus on consulting and preparing for your case. Startupr may charge extra if Immigration needs more information later.

We are not responsible for any decisions made by Immigration. So, all fees paid to Startupr are non-refundable once the payment is made. Please remember that only Immigration makes all applications and decisions. Startupr are not responsible for their choices. In the event of any dispute, Startupr’s decision shall be final and conclusive.