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Investment as Entrepreneurs

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Investment as Entrepreneurs

Expand All Collapse All Introduction

This webpage sets out the entry arrangement for persons who wish to enter/stay in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) for investment as entrepreneurs under the General Employment Policy (GEP), i.e. to establish or join in business in the HKSAR.

This entry arrangement does not apply to:

Chinese residents of the Mainland of China (the Mainland); and nationals of Afghanistan, Cuba and Korea (Democratic People's Republic of). Eligibility Criteria

An application for a visa/entry permit to enter the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) for investment as entrepreneur may be favourably considered if:

a. there is no security objection and no known record of serious crime in respect of the applicant; b. the applicant has a good education background, normally a first degree in the relevant field, but in special circumstances, good technical qualifications, proven professional abilities and/or relevant experience and achievements supported by documentary evidence may also be accepted; and c. (i) the applicant is in a position to make substantial contribution to the economy of the HKSAR, with consideration factors including, but not limited to, business plan, business turnover, financial resources, investment sum, number of jobs created locally and introduction of new technology or skills. Details of these consideration factors are as follows:
Business Plan
An applicant who wishes to establish or join in business in Hong Kong should submit a two-year business plan stating the nature of the business, market analysis, market positioning, business direction, sales targets, product marketing strategy, etc. in order to demonstrate that the business is suitable for and capable of developing in Hong Kong. The applicant should also submit a two-year forecast of the profit-and-loss account statement, cash flow statement and balance sheet to demonstrate the feasibility of the business in terms of operation, finances and development.

The Immigration Department will seek advice, if needed, from relevant government departments or professional bodies on the applicant’s business plan in order to assess whether the business supports Hong Kong’s overall economic development. For example, the Immigration Department may consider whether the applicant’s business belongs to or is able to complement industries that Hong Kong enjoys clear advantages, such as the four traditional pillar industries (i.e. trading and logistics, tourism, financial services, and professional and producer services) or the four clusters of sectors being explored for support measures by the Economic Development Commission (i.e. transportation, convention and exhibition industries and tourism, manufacturing industries, innovative technology and cultural and creative industries, and professional services), etc. Business Turnover
If the applicant is running relevant business overseas or has joined in a business in Hong Kong, he/she should submit the profit-and-loss account statement and balance sheet showing the business turnover and profit in the previous year. Those who intend to establish business in Hong Kong should submit a two-year forecast of profit-and-loss account statement and balance sheet as mentioned above, including the anticipated business turnover in order to demonstrate the feasibility of the business operation and development.

In assessing an application for entry for investment to establish business in Hong Kong, the Immigration Department will also consider whether the applicant has relevant investment or working experience in the business concerned. If needed, the Immigration Department will seek advice from relevant government departments or professional bodies in order to assess whether the business is suitable for and able to sustain a steady growth in Hong Kong, and can give impetus to the industry concerned. Financial Resources
The applicant should submit statements of his/her personal and company bank accounts in the previous year and proof of other sources of funding, as well as the company’s latest audited financial report (if any) to demonstrate that he/she has sufficient financial resources to run the relevant business in Hong Kong and also support the smooth operation and sustainable growth of the business. Investment Sum
The applicant should submit documentary proof showing the amount of capital investment in Hong Kong. The Immigration Department will consider whether the investment amount is able to support the operation of the business. Number of Jobs Created Locally
The applicant should set out the organisational structure of his/her business and the required number of staff and posts, based on the nature and scale of the business. He/She should indicate the number and level of actual jobs created locally (e.g. managers, administrators, professionals, clerical support staff, etc.). Introduction of New Technology or Skills (if applicable)
The applicant should explain how the new technology or skills to be introduced can inspire creativity in the high-value-added industries in Hong Kong, and whether he/she has taken out patent, contributing to the long-term development of Hong Kong as a knowledge-based economy. (ii) Start-up Businesses
An applicant who wishes to establish or join in a start-up business may also submit an application. The Immigration Department may consider the application favourably, if the start-up business concerned is supported by a government-backed programme with a rigorous vetting and selection process, and the applicant is the proprietor or partner of the start-up company or a key researcher of the relevant project. Examples of government-backed programmes include:
StartmeupHK Venture Programme administered by InvestHK; Incu-App, Incu-Bio and Incu-Tech programmes administered by the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation; Cyberport Incubation Programme; Enterprise Support Scheme administered by the Innovation and Technology Commission; and Design Incubation Programme administered by the Hong Kong Design Centre.

Overseas Chinese nationals holding People's Republic of China passports who are living overseas and meet the criteria stipulated above and normal immigration requirements may apply to enter the HKSAR for investment if:

the applicant has permanent residence overseas; or the applicant has been residing overseas for at least one year immediately before the submission of application ["overseas" means places outside the Mainland, the HKSAR, the Macao Special Administrative Region and Taiwan] and that the application is submitted from overseas.

In general, unless a person has the right of abode or right to land in the HKSAR, he/she requires a visa/entry permit for investment in the HKSAR. While each application is determined on its individual merits, an applicant should meet normal immigration requirements (such as holding a valid travel document with adequate returnability to his/her country of residence or citizenship; be of clear criminal record and raise no security or criminal concerns to the HKSAR; have no likelihood of becoming a burden on the HKSAR, etc.) as well as the relevant specific eligibility criteria detailed above before he/she may be considered for the grant of a visa/entry permit. It should be noted that the eligibility criteria may be subject to change from time to time without prior notice.

Entry of Dependants

Applicants admitted for investment may apply to bring in their spouse or the other party to a same-sex civil partnership, same-sex civil union, “same-sex marriage”, opposite-sex civil partnership or opposite-sex civil union entered into by him/her in accordance with the local law in force of the place of celebration and with such status being legally and officially recognised by the local authorities of the place of celebration Note and unmarried dependent children under the age of 18 to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) under the prevailing dependant policy. Persons admitted or applying for admission for investment will be the sponsors of their accompanying dependants to the HKSAR. An application for admission of a dependant may be favourably considered if normal immigration requirements and the following criteria are met:

there is reasonable proof of a genuine relationship between the dependant and the sponsor; there is no known record to the detriment of the dependant; and the sponsor is able to support the dependant's living at a standard well above the subsistence level and provide him/her with suitable accommodation in the HKSAR.

This entry arrangement does not apply to:

former Mainland Chinese residents residing in the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) who have obtained Macao identity cards for less than seven years, unless they have acquired residence in the Macao SAR through the One-way Permit Scheme; and nationals of Afghanistan and Korea (Democratic People's Republic of).

The length of stay of such dependants will normally be linked to that of their sponsors. Any subsequent applications for extension of stay will be considered only when the applicant continues to meet the eligibility criteria for entry for residence as dependant (including that there is no change in circumstances which would have otherwise resulted in loss of sponsorship for the applicant, e.g. change in marriage relationship between the dependent spouse and the sponsor, or death of sponsor) and the sponsor remains a bona fide Hong Kong resident living in the HKSAR. These dependants are not prohibited from taking up employment or studies in the HKSAR under the existing policy.

Note:

For the avoidance of doubt, the terms “civil partnership” and “civil union” above mean a legal institution of a nature which is akin to spousal relationship in a marriage. The same-sex civil partnership, same-sex civil union, “same-sex marriage”, opposite-sex civil partnership and opposite-sex civil union entered into in accordance with laws outside Hong Kong are limited to only relationships which are legally and officially recognised in the places of celebration. Such relationships normally have the following features: (a) the entering into and dissolution of the relationship are governed by legislation of the place where it is entered into; (b) the relationship requires registration by the competent authority specified by the legislation of the place where it is entered into; (c) the registration is evidenced in a written instrument issued by the competent authority; and (d) parties to the relationship have a mutual commitment to a shared life akin to spouses to the exclusion of others on a permanent basis. Such relationships do not include de facto spouse, partners in cohabitation, fiancé/fiancée, etc.

Processing Time

It normally takes four weeks to process a visa/entry permit application for investment upon receipt of all the required documents. The Immigration Department will not be able to start processing the application unless all the required documents and information have been received.

All applications are processed and determined by the Immigration Department. Approval of applications is entirely discretionary and is subject to changes in government policies. The Director of Immigration reserves absolute discretion to refuse any application even if the application meets all eligibility criteria.

Applying

Investment as Entrepreneurs

Expand All Collapse All Application Forms

Applicants should complete application form ID 999A . Sponsors should complete application form ID 999B . The application forms ( ID 999A and ID 999B ) can be obtained free of charge from the following offices:

Immigration Department Headquarters; Immigration Branch Offices; Overseas Chinese Diplomatic and Consular Missions; and HKSAR Government offices outside Hong Kong.

The forms can also be downloaded here .

Sponsor in Hong Kong

To apply for entry for investment, the applicant must nominate a local sponsor, who can either sponsor the applicant as a company or an individual. If the sponsor is an individual, he/she should be:

of the age of 18 or above; a bona fide Hong Kong resident; and acquainted with the applicant. Supporting Documents Forms and documents to be submitted by the applicant for entry for investment

Forms/ Documents Required Application for Entry for Investment as Entrepreneurs in Hong Kong ( ID 999A ) The applicant's recent photograph (affixed on page 2 of the application form ID 999A ) Photocopy of the applicant's valid travel document containing personal particulars, date of issue, date of expiry and/or details of any re-entry visa held (if applicable). For an applicant who is currently staying in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), photocopy of his/her travel document page containing the latest arrival stamp/landing slip/extension of stay label in the HKSAR and the latest issued “e-Visa” (if applicable). Photocopy of the applicant's Hong Kong identity card (if any) Photocopy of proof of academic qualifications and relevant work experience Photocopy of proof of the applicant’s financial standing (e.g. bank statements) Photocopy of the company's employment contract with or letter of appointment to the applicant containing information about post, salary, other fringe benefits and employment periods (if applicable) Detailed 2-year investment plan which contains details of proposed business activities, amount of investment, creation of local job posts, setting up of an office/showroom/warehouse, etc. Proof of company’s business activities such as photocopy of contracts, invoices or proof of business deals under negotiation (if applicable) Photocopy of proof of the company’s financial standing (e.g. latest audited financial report, trading profit and loss account, or profits tax return) Documents with details of company background such as business activities, mode of operation, background/connection of company, product ranges, sources and markets, membership of chamber of commerce (if any) etc. (supported with catalogues, brochures, etc) [if the applicant has invested in the HKSAR] Photocopy of tenancy agreements/supporting documents on office set-up Proof of posts created for local employees such as photocopy of records of monthly contributions to Mandatory Provident Fund Scheme (if applicable) Photocopy of Business Registration Certificate and business registration particulars e.g. Inland Revenue Department Form 1(a)/Form 1(c) [if the applicant has invested in the HKSAR] Photocopy of documents filed with the Companies Registry such as Certificate of Incorporation/latest annual return/Incorporation Form (Company Limited by Shares)/Memorandum of Association/Articles of Association Photocopy of licences or certificates for the operation of the business (e.g. relevant licences for financial institutions issued by the Securities and Futures Commission) (if applicable) Letter indicating valid support by a government-backed programme* Photocopy of the applicant's Macao identity card [for Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) residents only] Photocopy of the applicant's household registration in Taiwan and Taiwan identity card [for Taiwan residents only] Photocopy of proof of the applicant's overseas residence, such as photocopy of official documents showing applicant's condition of stay and limit of stay endorsed by overseas authorities [for overseas Chinese holding People’s Republic of China passports only]

* For applicants who wish to establish or join in a start-up business supported by a government-backed programme. Examples of government-backed programmes can be found here .

Forms and documents to be submitted by the sponsor

i. For applications in which the sponsor is a Company:

Forms/ Documents Required Application for Entry for Investment as Entrepreneurs (Sponsor) in Hong Kong ( ID 999B ) Photocopy of Business Registration Certificate
ii. For applications in which the sponsor is an Individual:

Forms/ Documents Required Application for Entry for Investment as Entrepreneurs (Sponsor) in Hong Kong ( ID 999B )

Photocopy of the sponsor's Hong Kong permanent identity card/Hong Kong identity card or valid travel document (for non-permanent residents of the HKSAR only)

Forms and documents to be submitted by each accompanying dependant of an applicant for entry for investment

Forms/ Documents Required The applicant's application form, Application for Entry for Investment as Entrepreneurs in Hong Kong ( ID 999A ) with Part B duly completed by the dependant The dependant's recent photograph (affixed on page 2 of application form ID 999A ) Photocopy of the dependant's valid travel document containing personal particulars, its date of issue, date of expiry and/or details of any re-entry visa held (if applicable). For a dependant who is currently staying in the HKSAR, photocopy of his/her travel document page containing the latest arrival stamp/landing slip/extension of stay label in the HKSAR and the latest “e-Visa” (if applicable). A Chinese resident of the Mainland who has not been issued with a travel document may submit a photocopy of his/her People's Republic of China resident identity card. Photocopy of evidence of the applicant's relationship with the dependant, e.g. marriage certificate, birth certificate, family photographs, family letters (with envelopes), census record book and Privilege Card for Single Child (if applicable) Photocopy of the dependant's Macao identity card [for Macao SAR residents only] Photocopy of the dependant's household registration in Taiwan and Taiwan identity card [for Taiwan residents only] Forms and documents to be submitted by the applicant for extension of stay application

Forms/ Documents Required Application for Extension of Stay ( ID 91 ) Original and photocopy of the applicant’s valid travel document and, where applicable, his/her previous travel document page showing the latest visa/entry permit label/arrival stamp/landing slip/extension of stay label in the HKSAR Photocopy of the applicant’s Hong Kong identity card Supporting letter from the current company stating the applicant’s contribution to Hong Kong (including the amount of capital invested and to be invested in the coming three years, the number of posts created for local employees with post titles and those to be created in the coming three years, etc.) Photocopy of Business Registration Certificate Letter indicating valid support by a government-backed programme*

* For applicants who wish to establish or join, or has established or joined, in a start-up business supported by a government-backed programme. Examples of government-backed programmes can be found here .

Notwithstanding that the documents and information required have been furnished, applicant, accompanying dependant(s) and sponsor may still be required to submit further supporting documents and information in connection with the application(s) when necessary.

Where a document is not in Chinese or English, it must be accompanied by a Chinese or English translation certified as a true translation by a sworn translator, court translator, authorised public translator, certified translator, expert translator or official translator. Warning

It is an offence to make false statements or representations to an immigration officer. To verify the authenticity of the information and documents submitted with a visa application, field visits may be conducted. A person who knowingly and wilfully makes a statement or gives information which he/she knows to be false or does not believe to be true shall be guilty of an offence under the Laws of Hong Kong and any such visa/entry permit issued or permission to enter or remain in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region granted shall have no effect.

Submission of Application

Online Submission

Click here for online submission of application and uploading of supporting documents.

Other Means of Submission

Completed application forms, i.e. ID 999A and ID 999B , and all supporting documents may also be submitted by the applicant or the local sponsor in one of the following ways. All the forms must be duly completed and signed. Where there are accompanying dependants, each dependant must complete and sign Part B of application form ID 999A . For a dependant under the age of 16, it must be signed by the parent or legal guardian.

By post directly or through the local sponsor in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) to:
Receipt and Despatch Sub-Unit
Hong Kong Immigration Department
2/F, Immigration Tower
7 Gloucester Road
Wan Chai, Hong Kong Underpaid mail items will not be accepted by the Immigration Department. For proper delivery of your mail items, please ensure your mail items bear sufficient postage with return address before posting. ( Details ) Applicants residing in overseas countries or territories may submit their application forms together with the relevant supporting documents and their valid travel documents in person to the nearest Chinese diplomatic and consular mission in their place of domicile [Note] . Holders of foreign passports who are living in the Mainland of China may submit the application forms together with all supporting documents to the Immigration Division of the Office of the Government of the HKSAR in Beijing (Beijing Office) or the Immigration Division of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Shanghai (SHETO). Applicants are required to produce their valid travel documents to the Immigration Division of the Beijing Office or the Immigration Division of the SHETO so that a visa/entry permit could be issued if the application is approved. The addresses of the two Mainland offices are:
The Office of the Government of the HKSAR in Beijing
No. 71, Di'anmen Xidajie, Xicheng District
Beijing 100009
People's Republic of China

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Shanghai
21/F, The Headquarters Building, 168 Xizang Road (M), Huangpu District
Shanghai 200001
People's Republic of China

[Note]:
Some Chinese diplomatic and consular missions have implemented the arrangement that applications for visas for Hong Kong from persons holding foreign ordinary passports will be handled by the "Chinese Visa Application Service Center". Applicants may contact the nearest Chinese diplomatic and consular mission for details.

Processing Time

It normally takes four weeks to process a visa/entry permit application for investment upon receipt of all the required documents. The Immigration Department will not be able to start processing the application unless all the required documents and information have been received.

All applications are processed and determined by the Immigration Department. Approval of applications is entirely discretionary and is subject to changes in government policies. The Director of Immigration reserves absolute discretion to refuse any application even if the application meets all eligibility criteria.

Payment of Fees

If the application is submitted to the Immigration Department directly, upon approval of the applications, the notification of the application result issued by the Immigration Department will include a webpage link for payment. Payment of relevant fees could be made through the said webpage link or the GovHK website or the ImmD Mobile Application by credit cards, Payment by Phone Service (PPS) or Faster Payment System (FPS). After payment, applicants could instantly download or print the “e-Visa” by themselves.

If the applicant or his/her authorised representative attend the relevant Immigration office in person to pay, the relevant fee could be settled by cash, EPS, Octopus, FPS or cheque. The cheque should be crossed, made payable to ”The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region“, properly dated and signed. After payment, the applicant or his/her authorised representative will be issued with an “e-Visa” printed on a sheet of A4 white paper on the spot. The applicant can then download or print the “e-Visa” through the GovHK website or the ImmD Mobile Application.

If the application is submitted to an overseas Chinese diplomatic and consular mission or the Immigration Division of the Office of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in Beijing (Beijing Office) or the Immigration Division of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Shanghai (SHETO), the visa fee should be paid directly to the Chinese diplomatic and consular mission or the Immigration Division of the Beijing Office or the Immigration Division of the SHETO as appropriate.

Fee Table

After Applying

Investment as Entrepreneurs

Expand All Collapse All Online/24-hour Telephone Enquiry on Application Status Enquiry

Once the receipt of application has been acknowledged, applicants can enquire their application status here or through the 24-hour telephone enquiry system at (852) 3160 8663.

Payment of Fees

If the application is submitted to the Immigration Department directly, upon approval of the applications, the notification of the application result issued by the Immigration Department will include a webpage link for payment. Payment of relevant fees could be made through the said webpage link or the GovHK website or the ImmD Mobile Application by credit cards, Payment by Phone Service (PPS) or Faster Payment System (FPS). After payment, applicants could instantly download or print the “e-Visa” by themselves.

If the applicant or his/her authorised representative attend the relevant Immigration office in person to pay, the relevant fee could be settled by cash, EPS, Octopus, FPS or cheque. The cheque should be crossed, made payable to “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region”, properly dated and signed. After payment, the applicant or his/her authorised representative will be issued with an “e-Visa” printed on a sheet of A4 white paper on the spot. The applicant can then download or print the “e-Visa” through the GovHK website or the ImmD Mobile Application.

If the application is submitted to an overseas Chinese diplomatic and consular mission or the Immigration Division of the Office of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in Beijing (Beijing Office) or the Immigration Division of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Shanghai (SHETO), the visa/entry permit fee should be paid directly to the Chinese diplomatic and consular mission or the Immigration Division of the Beijing Office or the Immigration Division of the SHETO as appropriate.

Fee Table

Travel Documentation Requirement

A visa/entry permit (in the form of “e-Visa” ) will be issued upon successful application. Upon immigration arrival clearance in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, an “e-Visa” holder should present his/her valid travel document and the “e-Visa” saved on a personal mobile device or printed on a sheet of A4 white paper, and scan the encrypted QR code on the “e-Visa” with the optical reader at an immigration counter.

For applications submitted to Chinese diplomatic and consular missions or the Immigration Division of the Office of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in Beijing (Beijing Office) or the Immigration Division of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Shanghai (SHETO), visas/entry permits will be issued through the relevant Chinese diplomatic and consular missions or the Immigration Division of the Beijing Office or the Immigration Division of the SHETO as appropriate. The visa/entry permit label should be affixed onto a blank visa page of the applicant's travel document for presentation to an immigration officer upon arrival in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

Extension of Stay

Persons admitted for investment as entrepreneurs (to establish or join in business) under the General Employment Policy will normally be granted an initial stay of 36 months on employment condition upon entry. They may apply for extension of stay in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region within four weeks before their limit of stay expires. Such applications will be considered only when the applicants continue to meet the eligibility criteria for entry for investment. Successful applicants will normally be granted an extension of stay following the 3-2 year pattern, on employment condition.

Conditions of Stay

Persons admitted to establish or join in business as approved by the Director of Immigration will be admitted on employment condition. Should they wish to establish or join in business other than that approved, they should seek prior approval from the Director of Immigration. Such applications may be favourably considered if they continue to fulfil the eligibility criteria for entry for investment under the General Employment Policy.

Re-entry into the HKSAR

Non-permanent residents of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), irrespective of their nationality and type of travel document held, do not require a re-entry visa/entry permit to enter the HKSAR provided that they return within the validity of their permitted limit of stay and that the circumstances upon which they have acquired their residential status remain unchanged.

Right of Abode

Persons admitted for investment who have ordinarily resided in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) for a continuous period of not less than seven years may apply for the right of abode in the HKSAR in accordance with the law.

Extension of Stay Apply Now Before Applying Applying After Applying Before Applying

General Employment Policy Entrants, Admission Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Residents Entrants, Entrepreneurs, Non-Mainland Students and their Dependants, and Dependants of Hong Kong permanent residents and Hong Kong residents not subject to a limit of stay

Expand All Collapse All Introduction

This webpage sets out information about extension of stay for non-permanent residents (other than foreign domestic helpers, imported workers, Mainland residents admitted as student, entrants admitted under the Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals, Capital Investment Entrant Scheme, Quality Migrant Admission Scheme and Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates, and their dependants).

Eligibility Criteria

In general, non-permanent residents (other than foreign domestic helpers, imported workers, Mainland residents admitted as student, entrants admitted under the Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals, Capital Investment Entrant Scheme, Quality Migrant Admission Scheme and Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates, and their dependants) may apply for extension of stay in the HKSAR within 4 weeks before their limit of stay expires. Such applications will be considered only where it is satisfied that the circumstances upon which the applicant acquired his/her current immigration status remain unchanged.

Processing Time

Routine applications will normally be finalised within two to three weeks upon receipt of all necessary documents.

Applying

General Employment Policy Entrants, Admission Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Residents Entrants, Entrepreneurs, Non-Mainland Students and their Dependants, and Dependants of Hong Kong permanent residents and Hong Kong residents not subject to a limit of stay

Expand All Collapse All Application Methods

a. General Employment Policy Entrants, Entrepreneurs, Non-Mainland Students and their Dependants, and Dependants of Hong Kong permanent residents and Hong Kong residents not subject to a limit of stay

Applicants must submit a completed and signed form ID 91 . If the applicant is under the age of 16, the form should be signed by the applicant’s parent or legal guardian. For applicants on dependant status, form ID 481A which is duly completed and signed by the sponsor should also be submitted. If the applicant is the spouse or the other party to a same-sex civil partnership, same-sex civil union, “same-sex marriage”, opposite-sex civil partnership or opposite-sex civil union entered into by him/her in accordance with the local law in force of the place of celebration and with such status being legally and officially recognised by the local authorities of the place of celebration Note of the sponsor, the applicant should complete and sign form ID 481B . All of these forms can be obtained free of charge from the Immigration Department Headquarters and the Immigration Branch Offices. The forms can also be downloaded here .

b. Admission Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Residents Entrants and their Dependants

Applicant should submit application online here . If the applicant is under the age of 16, the form should be signed by the applicant’s parent or legal guardian. For applicant on dependant status, form ID 481A which is duly completed by the sponsor should be uploaded. If the applicant is the spouse or the other party to a same-sex civil partnership, same-sex civil union, “same-sex marriage”, opposite-sex civil partnership or opposite-sex civil union entered into by him/her in accordance with the local law in force of the place of celebration and with such status being legally and officially recognised by the local authorities of the place of celebration Note of the sponsor, the applicant should upload form ID 481B .

Applicants who are not eligible for online application may submit applications to the Extension Section, 5/F, Immigration Tower, 7 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai.

Note:
For the avoidance of doubt, the terms “civil partnership” and “civil union” above mean a legal institution of a nature which is akin to spousal relationship in a marriage. The same-sex civil partnership, same-sex civil union, “same-sex marriage”, opposite-sex civil partnership and opposite-sex civil union entered into in accordance with laws outside Hong Kong are limited to only relationships which are legally and officially recognised in the places of celebration. Such relationships normally have the following features: (a) the entering into and dissolution of the relationship are governed by legislation of the place where it is entered into; (b) the relationship requires registration by the competent authority specified by the legislation of the place where it is entered into; (c) the registration is evidenced in a written instrument issued by the competent authority; and (d) parties to the relationship have a mutual commitment to a shared life akin to spouses to the exclusion of others on a permanent basis. Such relationships do not include de facto spouse, partners in cohabitation, fiancé/fiancée, etc.

Supporting Documents

Depending on the applicant’s current immigration status, the following forms and documents (original) are required upon submission of the application:

General Employment Policy Entrants Forms/Documents Required Original and photocopy of the applicant’s valid travel document and, where applicable, his/her previous travel document page showing the latest visa/entry permit label/arrival stamp/landing slip/extension of stay label in the HKSAR and the latest issued “e-Visa” (if applicable) Photocopy of the applicant’s Hong Kong identity card Completed form ID 91 Supporting letter from the current employer stating the applicant’s position, total monthly remuneration and period of employment @ Completed form ID 990B and supporting documents listed in Part VII(B) of the Guidebook for Entry for Employment as Professionals in Hong Kong [ ID(E) 991 ] ^ Documentary proof of the applicant having an assessable income for salaries tax of not less than HK$2 million in the previous year of tax assessment, e.g. notice of salaries tax assessment of the previous tax assessment year issued by the Inland Revenue Department or relevant tax documents* @ For extension of stay without change of employment ^ For extension of stay with change of employment * For extension of stay applications under the top-tier employment stream Admission Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Residents Entrants Forms/Documents Required Original and photocopy of the applicant’s valid travel document and, where applicable, his/her previous travel document page showing the latest visa/entry permit label/arrival stamp/landing slip/extension of stay label in the HKSAR and the latest issued “e-Visa” (if applicable) Photocopy of the applicant’s Hong Kong identity card Completed form ID 91 # Completed form ID 990B and supporting documents listed in Part VII(B) of the Guidebook for Entry for Employment as Professionals in Hong Kong [ ID(E) 991 ] ^ Supporting letter from the current employer stating the applicant’s position, total monthly remuneration and period of employment @ Documentary proof of the applicant having an assessable income for salaries tax of not less than HK$2 million in the previous year of tax assessment, e.g. notice of salaries tax assessment of the previous tax assessment year issued by the Inland Revenue Department or relevant tax documents* # For applicants who are not eligible for online application only ^ For first time extension and subsequent extension with change of employer @ For subsequent extension without change of employer * For extension of stay applications under the top-tier employment stream Entrepreneurs Forms/Documents Required Original and photocopy of the applicant’s valid travel document and, where applicable, his/her previous travel document page showing the latest visa/entry permit label/arrival stamp/landing slip/extension of stay label in the HKSAR and the latest issued “e-Visa” (if applicable) Photocopy of the applicant’s Hong Kong identity card Completed form ID 91 Supporting letter from the current company stating the applicant’s contribution to Hong Kong (including the amount of capital invested and to be invested in the coming three years, the number of posts created for local employees with post titles and those to be created in the coming three years, etc.) Photocopy of Business Registration Certificate Letter indicating valid support by a government-backed programme* * For applicants who wish to establish or join in, or has established or joined, in a start-up business supported by a government-backed programme. For examples of government-backed programmes, please refer to paragraph 3(c)(ii) of Part II of the Guidebook for Entry for Investment as Entrepreneurs in Hong Kong [ ID(E) 1000 ] Non-Mainland Students Forms/Documents Required Original and photocopy of the applicant’s valid travel document and, where applicable, his/her previous travel document page showing the latest visa/entry permit label/arrival stamp/landing slip/extension of stay label in the HKSAR and the latest issued “e-Visa” (if applicable) Photocopy of the applicant’s Hong Kong identity card Completed form ID 91 Current school letter addressed to the Immigration Department confirming that the student requires extension of stay to continue study Dependants Forms/Documents Required Original and photocopy of the applicant’s valid travel document and, where applicable, his/her previous travel document page showing the latest visa/entry permit label/arrival stamp/landing slip/extension of stay label in the HKSAR and the latest issued “e-Visa” (if applicable) Photocopy of the applicant’s Hong Kong identity card Completed form ID 91 Photocopy of the sponsor’s valid travel document (showing personal particulars and current permission of stay) or Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card Completed form ID 481A Completed form ID 481B (for dependent spouse or the other party to a same-sex civil partnership, same-sex civil union, “same-sex marriage”, opposite-sex civil partnership or opposite-sex civil union entered into by him/her in accordance with the local law in force of the place of celebration and with such status being legally and officially recognised by the local authorities of the place of celebration Note ) Applicant’s birth certificate (for children born in the HKSAR to non-permanent residents only) * Applicant’s Form ID 235B (for children born in the HKSAR to non-permanent residents only) * Parents’ marriage certificate (for children born in the HKSAR to non-permanent residents only) * * For first time application only

Notwithstanding that the documents and information required have been furnished, applicants may still be required to submit further supporting documents and information in connection with the application(s) when necessary.

Where a document is not in Chinese or English, it must be accompanied by a Chinese or English translation certified as a true translation by a sworn translator, court translator, authorised public translator, certified translator, expert translator or official translator.

Warning

It is an offence to make false statements or representations to an immigration officer. To verify the authenticity of the information and documents submitted with a visa application, field visits may be conducted. A person who knowingly and willfully makes a statement or gives information which he/she knows to be false or does not believe to be true shall be guilty of an offence under the Laws of Hong Kong and any such visa/entry permit issued or permission to enter or remain in the HKSAR granted shall have no effect.

Submission of Application

Applicants should be physically present in Hong Kong at the time of application. Applications may be submitted as follows:

Eligible applicants can submit their applications for extension of stay online here Applicants can submit the application for extension of stay in person or by an authorised representative at or by post/drop-in to the office below (Not applicable to Admission Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Residents Entrants):

Where to Apply

Extension Section of the Immigration Department

5/F, Immigration Tower

7 Gloucester Road

Wan Chai, Hong Kong

Working Hours

8:45 am-4:30 pm (Monday to Friday)

9:00 am-11:30 am (Saturday)

Closed on Sundays and public holidays

Applicants can also visit any of the following Immigration Branch Offices for relevant formalities.

Immigration – East Kowloon Office

Level 2, Sceneway Plaza

Sceneway Garden

1-17 Sceneway Road

Lam Tin, Kowloon

(MTR Lam Tin Station – Exit B)

Telephone: 2347 3492

Immigration – West Kowloon Office

Ground Floor, 28 Kimberley Street,

Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon

(MTR Tsim Sha Tsui Station – Exit B2)

Telephone: 2359 4426

Immigration – Sha Tin Office

3rd Floor, Sha Tin Government Offices

1 Sheung Wo Che Road

Sha Tin, New Territories

(MTR Sha Tin Station – Exit B)

Telephone: 2158 6419

Immigration and Registration of Persons – Fo Tan Office

Shops 405-407

4/F, Jubilee Square

2-18 Lok King Street

Fo Tan, New Territories

(MTR Fo Tan Station - Exit C)

Telephone: 2651 8644

Immigration – Tuen Mun Office

1/F & 2/F, Tuen Mun Siu Lun Government Complex

19 Siu Lun Street

Tuen Mun, New Territories

(Counter services are available on 2/F)

(Light Rail Sam Shing Stop)

Telephone: 2797 0872

Immigration and Registration of Persons – Yuen Long Office

1/F, Yuen Long Government Offices

2 Kiu Lok Square

Yuen Long, New Territories

(MTR Long Ping Station – Exit E)

(Light Rail Hong Lok Road Station)

Telephone: 2475 4145

Working Hours

The working hours of the above Immigration Branch Offices are as follows:

9:00 am - 12:45 pm and 2:00 pm-4:30 pm (Monday to Friday)

9:00 am - 12:30 pm (Saturday)

Closed on Sundays and public holidays

Online /24-hour Telephone Appointment Booking

Eligible applicants may submit the application for extension of stay in person or through his/her authorised representative by making an appointment online here or at (852) 2598 0888 (Not applicable to Admission Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Residents Entrants and their Dependants).

Processing Time

Routine applications will normally be finalised within two to three weeks upon receipt of all necessary documents.

Payment of Fee

Upon approval of the applications, the notification of the application result issued by the Immigration Department will include a webpage link for payment. Payment of relevant fees could be made through the said webpage link or the GovHK website or the ImmD Mobile Application by credit cards, Payment by Phone Service (PPS) or Faster Payment System (FPS). After payment, applicants could instantly download or print the “e-Visa” by themselves.

If the applicant or his/her authorised representative attend the relevant Immigration office in person to pay, the relevant fee could be settled by cash, EPS, Octopus, FPS or cheque. The cheque should be crossed, made payable to “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region”, properly dated and signed. After payment, the applicant or his/her authorised representative will be issued with an “e-Visa” printed on a sheet of A4 white paper on the spot. The applicant can then download or print the “e-Visa” through the GovHK website or the ImmD Mobile Application.

The applicant must be physically present in Hong Kong at the time of payment and collection of “e-Visa”.

Fee table

After Applying

General Employment Policy Entrants, Admission Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Residents Entrants, Entrepreneurs, Non-Mainland Students and their Dependants, and Dependants of Hong Kong permanent residents and Hong Kong residents not subject to a limit of stay

Expand All Collapse All Online/24-hour Telephone Enquiry on Application Status

Once the receipt of the application has been acknowledged, applicants can enquire their application status here or through the 24-hour telephone enquiry system at (852) 3160 8663.

Processing Time

Routine applications will normally be finalised within two to three weeks upon receipt of all necessary documents.

Interim Extension of Stay

If the application for extension of stay has not been finalised and the applicant intends to leave Hong Kong after the expiry of the current limit of stay, the applicant needs to obtain an interim extension of stay in advance before his/her departure from Hong Kong.

Applications may be made in person or by an authorised person before the expiry of the limit of stay to the Extension Section on 5/F, Immigration Tower, 7 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong. Depending on the current status, the applicant is required to bring the following documents:

Original and photocopy of the applicant’s valid travel document and, where applicable, his/her previous travel document page showing the latest visa/entry permit label/arrival stamp/landing slip/extension of stay label in the HKSAR and the latest issued “e-Visa” (if applicable); Photocopy of the applicant’s Hong Kong identity card; Completed form ID 91 with a reason for request for an interim extension of stay (original); A letter (original) from the sponsor/employer/school supporting the application for interim extension of stay or an ID 481 issued by Extension Section (original) showing that the required supporting document from the sponsor/employer/school has been received on the date of submission of the application for extension of stay.

Applications for interim extension of stay will normally be finalised on the same day upon receipt of all necessary documents.

Payment of Fee

Upon approval of the applications, the notification of the application result issued by the Immigration Department will include a webpage link for payment. Payment of relevant fees could be made through the said webpage link or the GovHK website or the ImmD Mobile Application by credit cards, Payment by Phone Service (PPS) or Faster Payment System (FPS). After payment, applicants could instantly download or print the “e-Visa” by themselves.

If the applicant or his/her authorised representative attend the relevant Immigration office in person to pay, the relevant fee could be settled by cash, EPS, Octopus, FPS or cheque. The cheque should be crossed, made payable to ”The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region“, properly dated and signed. After payment, the applicant or his/her authorised representative will be issued with an “e-Visa” printed on a sheet of A4 white paper on the spot. The applicant can then download or print the “e-Visa” through the GovHK website or the ImmD Mobile Application.

The applicant must be physically present in Hong Kong at the time of payment and collection of “e-Visa”.

Fee table

Related topics Frequently Asked Questions on Hong Kong Visas Guidebook and application forms relating to entry for investment (to establish/join in business) Application forms relating to extension of stay Permissible activities for visitors 29-12-2023

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