1. Determine the type of visa you need: There are several types of visas for Hong Kong, including tourist visas, business visas, student visas, and work visas. You will need to determine which type of visa you need based on the purpose of your visit.
2. Check if you are eligible: Before applying for a Hong Kong visa, make sure you are eligible. The eligibility criteria vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for.
3. Gather the required documents: The documents you need to provide will depend on the type of visa you are applying for. Generally, you will need a passport that is valid for at least six months, a completed visa application form, a recent passport-sized photo, and supporting documents such as proof of accommodation, itinerary, and financial capability. You will need to get all the documents translated if they are not written in English or Traditional Chinese, and certified with a registered certified translation company in Hong Kong.
4. Submit your application: You can apply for a Hong Kong visa either online or in person at the nearest Hong Kong immigration office or consulate. Some nationalities may be required to apply through a travel agency or visa processing center.
5. Wait for the visa to be processed: The processing time for a Hong Kong visa can vary depending on the type of visa and your nationality. Generally, it takes around four to six weeks to process a visa.
6. Receive your visa: Once your visa is approved, you will receive it by mail or in person if you applied in person.

It is important to note that the visa requirements and procedures may change over time, so it’s best to check with the Hong Kong immigration department or consulate for the latest information.

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What is BNO Visa?

The scheme is a post-Brexit initiative to ensure people are welcomed into the UK. The BNO visa enables those from Hong Kong to relocate for work or education and is a popular option for many. Once the application is successful, those seeking to work in the country will be eligible for a UK work permit. In contrast, others may take advantage of world-class educational facilities at some top universities. The process takes an average of six weeks, and with around £12,000 of fees for a family of four, applications will need a financial cushion.

Why are People Leaving Hong Kong?

Many people are choosing to leave Hong Kong for a better life, but also because politics in Hong Kong have made domesticity very unappealing. Once accepted, those coming to the UK on a BNO visa application can apply for citizenship after just five years, which is significantly less time than somewhere like Canada. Applicants come from a wide range of backgrounds, with many bringing skills in management and other professional roles. So far, virtually all applications have come from working-age people looking for employment, and most of these had completed university education and worked in professional roles.

Why Choose the UK?

The regulations and criteria seem to be a driving force for Hong Kong nationals seeking a better life. Despite the UK experiencing a high cost of living rise, the political instability is still reason enough to leave. The financial impact of the visa application is also seen as very reasonable compared to others. It costs just £250 to apply, plus the mandatory NHS surcharge, which is set at £3,120 per adult and £2,350 per child. This works well for the UK as the government strives to appeal to International talent after its workforce was hit when EU workers were binned during Brexit.

What are the Positives of This Situation?

So, does this arrangement offer something for everyone? It seems so. The economy will benefit from new skilled workers who can bring something new to the roles they take up, and the government has said this is an essential facet of the scheme. For those moving into the country, the attraction is freedom. Many parents have said that their children can be free to play in the street, attend good schools, and not live in fear of tyranny. Indeed, of those already settling in the UK, 96% said that they have no reason to want to return to Hong Kong and will be looking to pay the £2,389 at the end of five years to get their indefinite leave to remain granted, with a further £1,206 in their sixth year to complete their British citizenship application.

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Processing Time

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

Application Form

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.

Supporting Documents

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

1. General Employment Policy Entrants
2. Forms/Documents Required
3. 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 HKSARPhotocopy of the applicant’s Hong Kong identity cardCompleted form ID 91Supporting 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
4. Admission Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Residents EntrantsForms/Documents RequiredOriginal 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 HKSARPhotocopy of the applicant’s Hong Kong identity cardCompleted form ID 91Completed 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*^For first time extension and subsequent extension with change of employer*For subsequent extension without change of employer
5. EntrepreneursForms/Documents RequiredOriginal 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 HKSARPhotocopy of the applicant’s Hong Kong identity cardCompleted form ID 91Supporting 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 CertificateLetter 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]
6. Non-Mainland StudentsForms/Documents RequiredOriginal 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 HKSARPhotocopy of the applicant’s Hong Kong identity cardCompleted form ID 91Current school letter addressed to the Immigration Department confirming that the student requires extension of stay to continue study
7. DependantsForms/Documents RequiredOriginal 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 HKSARPhotocopy of the applicant’s Hong Kong identity cardCompleted form ID 91Photocopy of the sponsor’s valid travel document (showing personal particulars and current permission of stay) or Hong Kong Permanent Identity CardCompleted form ID 481ACompleted 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.

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Revitalised Historic Buildings — In recent years, Hong Kong conducted several major revitalisation projects to promote heritage conservation, giving historic buildings around the city a new lease of life through transforming them into arts, cultural and shopping hotspots. Central Market, PMQ, Tai Kwun (Former Central Police Station Compound) and The Mills are some great examples, allowing visitors to explore Hong Kong’s local artisan culture as well as the neighbourhood’s history alongside the heritages.

Colonial Attractions — Beginning in 1841, Hong Kong lived under British governance. The colonial colour is reflected in Hong Kong’s culture as well as her many historical sites of interest. Tourists can learn more about Hong Kong’s past at places like 1881 Heritage, Clock Tower, Duddell Street Steps & Gas Lamps, Fringe Club, Government House, Lui Seng Chun, Murray House, Court of Final Appeal, Tai O Heritage Hotel (Old Tai O Police Station), Western Market and Yau Ma Tei Theatre.

Heritage Sites — Hundreds of years of history have left vestiges of Hong Kong’s colourful Chinese heritage everywhere in the city. Many popular sites welcome visitors to experience historic Hong Kong, such as Cheung Po Tsai Cave, Kat Hing Wai Walled Village, Kowloon Walled City Park, Lai Chi Wo, Lung Yuek Tau Heritage Trail, Ping Shan Heritage Trail, Tai Fu Tai Mansion and the Wishing Trees at Lam Tsuen.

Places of Worship — Hong Kong is a melting destination of different cultures and religions, and there are many places for worshiping across town for her many faiths. Attractions include Khalsa Diwan Sikh Temple, Happy Valley Hindu Temple, Jamia Mosque, St Andrew’s Church, St John’s Cathedral and Ohel Leah Synagogue. Of particular religious and historical importance to Hong Kong are Che Kung Temple, Chi Lin Nunnery, Man Mo Temple, Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple and Tin Hau Temples.

Museums — Hong Kong has a diverse selection of museums covering art, living culture and local heritage, history, science, and more. The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) runs 17 museums and four other cultural venues, such as the Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence, Dr Sun Yat-sen Museum, Hong Kong Museum of Art, Hong Kong Museum of History, Hong Kong Science Museum, Hong Kong Heritage Museum and Hong Kong Space Museum. Tourists can buy a Museum Pass for unlimited admission to LCSD member museums’ permanent and special exhibitions (unless otherwise specified).

Great Outdoors

Beaches — There are plenty of beautiful beaches offering locals and tourists the chance to swim, sunbathe and windsurf, such as Big Wave Bay Beach, Mui Wo, Pui O Beach, Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O.

Hikes — Hong Kong has an abundance of natural resources and is surrounded by lush greenery and mountains. Nature lovers can enjoy the scenic countryside along different hiking trails covering long and short distances across several areas in Hong Kong, such as Dragon’s Back and MacLehose Trail.

Outlying Islands — A short ferry ride takes tourists to one of Hong Kong’s laid-back outlying islands, such as Cheung Chau, Lamma Island, Lantau and Peng Chau. These islands embody the same contrasts that make this city such an appealing destination: tradition and innovation, and influences of East and West.

Parks — Travellers who enjoy wildlife and ecology can discover Hong Kong’s natural beauty at different parks and reserves in Hong Kong. At Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark, tourists will be amazed by the timeless beauty of the weird and wonderful landforms created by the earth’s movements.

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1. Hong Kong Disneyland — A world of fantasy that kids and families cannot miss! An unforgettable experience at Hong Kong Disneyland begins with a magical journey through seven themed lands – Main Street U.S.A., Fantasyland, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, Toy Story Land, Grizzly Gulch and Mystic Point. There are also exhilarating rides, amazing adventures and fantastic shows, including a complete Marvel-themed experience in the Iron Man Experience and Ant-Man and The Wasp: Nano Battle! 

(https://www.hongkongdisneyland.com/)

Located at Lantau Island. Visitors can take MTR and switch to the Disneyland Resort Line at Sunny Bay Station.

• Hong Kong Wetland Park – Located near the internationally recognised Mai Po Marshes bird sanctuary, the 61-hectare Hong Kong Wetland Park demonstrates the diversity of Hong Kong’s wetland ecosystem. Outside the Visitor Centre, there are extensive wetlands and a number of bird hides and viewing pavilions. Visitors can get close to nature through integrated, themed education and recreation facilities, including audio-visual shows, wildlife models and wetland simulations.

(https://www.wetlandpark.gov.hk/en/)

Located in Tin Shui Wai. The Park is accessible via MTR, bus, car, coach or bicycle.

• LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Hong Kong — Dubbed the 30,000 square foot ultimate indoor playground, LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Hong Kong will provide a 2-3 hour interactive and educational experience for families with children. Built inside the attraction is the MINILAND® Hong Kong, a miniature LEGO® replica of the city, featuring many iconic local landmarks and street views of Hong Kong. The Centre also features other exciting LEGO® themed play areas including Kingdom Quest, LEGO® Friends, LEGO® Creative Workshop, DUPLO® Farm, Merlin’s Apprentice, LEGO® Racer: Build & Test, and a 4D studio. 

(https://www.legolanddiscoverycentre.com/hong-kong/en/)

Located at K11 MUSEA, Tsim Sha Tsui. Visitors can take MTR to East Tsim Sha Tsui Station.

• Madame Tussauds Hong Kong — With over 100 incredibly lifelike wax figures, Madame Tussauds Hong Kong delivers a fun and interactive celebrity experience in which everyone can pretend to be a star, or just compare themselves to the real thing. Visitors can find world-famous faces in 11 themed areas, such as Animated World, The Champions, Fashion Zone, K-wave Zone, Kung Fu Zone, Historical and National Heroes, Hong Kong Glamour, Music Icons, World Premiere and more. Notable stars include Bruce Lee, Iron Man, the British royal family, David Beckham, Jackson Wang and Korean celebrities. 

(https://www.madametussauds.com/hong-kong/en/)

Located at The Peak Tower. A Peak Tram ride takes visitors from Central to the exhibition.

• MONOPOLY DREAMS — MONOPOLY is the most popular board game in the world, MONOPOLY DREAMS utilises Hologram and 4DX to present all the major elements in the game, such as Ultimate Banking, Title Deed, Tokens, Waterworks, Chance, etc. Whether it is for family reunion or friends gathering, people of all ages can create unforgettable memories here and get surprises through different interactive experiences. 

(https://www.monopolydreams.com/hk/en/)

Located at The Peak Galleria. A Peak Tram ride takes visitors from Central to the attraction.

• Ngong Ping 360 — Visitors can start their Lantau Island journey with a 25-minute Ngong Ping 360 cable car ride from Tung Chung to the 1.5-hectare Ngong Ping Village, where a wide array of shopping and dining options can be found. The Crystal Cabin’s glass bottom offers an astonishing panoramic view along the ride. Adjacent to Ngong Ping Village are the renowned Po Lin Monastery, Ngong Ping Piazza and Wisdom Path, as well as the Big Buddha, one of the world’s tallest bronze outdoor sitting Buddha statues. A breathtaking sunset view makes the perfect conclusion to a day out in Lantau.

(http://www.np360.com.hk/en/)

Located at Lantau Island. The Tung Chung Cable Car Terminal is about a five-minute walk from MTR Tung Chung Station.

• Noah’s Ark Hong Kong — The world’s only full-size replica of Noah’s Ark is a popular place for both international and local visitors. The natural and comfortable environment makes it a great destination for families. Parents and children can also explore the unique history and culture of Ma Wan, learning the values of life, family and the earth through its various exhibitions, entertainment and educational activities. Other attractions include Solar Tower, Ark Garden, Noah’s Adventureland and Treasure House. The park also overlooks Tsing Ma Bridge. Visitors can stay at the Noah’s Resort hotel to get away from the busy city.

(http://www.noahsark.com.hk/eng/index.jsp)

Located at Ma Wan. Ferry services are available between Central pier and Park Island.

• Ocean Park Hong Kong — Opened in 1977, Ocean Park is a world-class marine theme park with diverse attractions and a long-standing commitment to promoting and supporting animal conservation. Covering more than 915,000 square metres, the park consists of the Waterfront and Summit areas, which are connected by the Cable Car and Ocean Express funicular train. Featuring numerous popular attractions like Aqua City, Old Hong Kong, Polar Adventure and Thrill Mountain, the park also organises various themed events, including Halloween bash and summer carnival.

(https://www.oceanpark.com.hk/en)

Launched in September 2021, Water World Ocean Park Hong Kong is Asia’s first all-weather, year-round water park. In addition to 27 thrilling attractions in five themed zones, the park also features outdoor terraced platforms for visitors to capture the panoramic views of its surroundings while immersing themselves in the excitement of the waves, rivers and slippery slides. 

Located at Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong Island. Visitors can take MTR to Ocean Park Station.

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Mass Transit Railways (MTR)

The MTR system extends from the heart of Central and Causeway Bay to the New Territories and Lantau Island, covering all major districts in Hong Kong. The MTR also operates Airport Express and light rail networks servicing Hong Kong International Airport and the northwest New Territories. Service hours are from around 6 a.m. to 1 a.m., and vary depending on the lines.

Airport Express: The fastest way to get downtown is by MTR’s high-speed Airport Express train. Running from early in the morning to midnight, it departs around every 15 minutes and stops at MTR Tsing Yi, Kowloon and Hong Kong stations. 

It takes about 24 minutes to reach MTR Hong Kong Station in Central district. Airport Express passengers can take a free shuttle bus from Kowloon Station or Hong Kong Station to major hotels. Both stations also provide free in-town check-in services for major airlines.

Buses

Buses in Hong Kong are plentiful and comfortable. Routes are extensive and include many scenic spots, tourist destinations, and the airport. Fares are inexpensive. Bus services in urban areas usually run at frequent intervals between 6 a.m. and midnight, with some even in 24-hour service.

Minibuses

Minibuses carry up to 19 passengers and are divided into two types. Red minibuses have fares that vary according to distance travelled and time of day. Green minibuses have fixed scheduled, routes and fares.

Ferries

Star Ferry: The historic Star Ferry shuttles across Victoria Harbour between Tsim Sha Tsui and Central, with another route running between Tsim Sha Tsui and Wan Chai. The service began in 1898, and the cross-harbour voyage still offers a million-dollar view for just a few Hong Kong dollars.

Outlying Island Ferries: Ferries operate from the Central ferry piers to the main outlying islands of Peng Chau, Cheung Chau, Lamma Island and Lantau Island, including Discovery Bay. They run from early in the morning to midnight depending on the routes.

Trams

Tram on Hong Kong Island: The city’s historic double-decker trams, in service since 1904, travel along Hong Kong Island’s northern shoreline with stops at a number of major attractions. It is an affordable and fun way to go around, which also provides passengers with a fascinating slow-moving view of Hong Kong’s urban bustle. It costs a flat fare regardless of the distance travelled. The trams run daily between 5 a.m. and midnight.

Peak Tram: One of Hong Kong’s major attractions, the Peak Tram provides spectacular harbour views as it climbs from Central to the Peak. Inaugurated in 1888, the system is now fully modernised with automated and computerised two-carriage trams. The service runs daily every 10-15 minutes between 7 a.m. and midnight.

Taxis

Visitors can find plenty of taxis running throughout the city and all are metered. There are three types of taxi in Hong Kong. Red taxis cover most of Hong Kong except parts of Lantau Island. Green taxis only serve the New Territories. Blue taxis operate on Lantau Island only.

Octopus Card

Travellers who intend to stay in Hong Kong for more than a few days should pick up an Octopus card. This is an extremely versatile stored-value electronic card that can be used for most public transport, as well as purchases in convenience stores, fast food shops, supermarkets, cake shops, vending machines, and more.

Visitors can either choose an On-Loan Octopus with a refundable deposit or a Tourist Octopus (Sold version). The On-Loan Octopus can be purchased at, and returned to, most MTR & Light Rail stations, First Ferry Customer and Octopus Service Centres, and KMB Lok Ma Chau Ticketing Office. The Tourist Octopus (Sold version) is available for sale at China Travel Service (HK) Limited and convenience stores such as 7-Eleven, Circle K and VanGO, as well as on the Ctrip website. 

Value can be added at thousands of locations including convenience stores, supermarkets and MTR stations. 

With a wide range of hours and a variety of transportation options throughout the city, visitors can easily explore the city day and night. For the latest information on schedules and fares, please visit DiscoverHongKong.com.

(https://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/plan/traveller-info/getting-around.html)

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By Air

The award-winning Hong Kong International Airport on Lantau Island commenced operations in July 1998. The 24-hour airport is connected to about 220 destinations all over the world through about 1,100 daily flights serviced by more than 120 airlines. There is also a cross-boundary helicopter shuttle service travelling between Hong Kong and Macao. It’s just 15 minutes from Macau Maritime Terminal to the Heliport at Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal.

By Sea

The two world-class cruise infrastructures, Kai Tak Cruise Terminal and Ocean Terminal, receive international cruise ships at the spectacular Victoria Harbour. In addition, Hong Kong is also linked to a number of ports in Mainland China by high-speed ferries servicing Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and Hong Kong International Airport.

By Land

Mass Transit Railway (MTR) runs regular through-train intercity services between Hong Kong and Guangdong province, Beijing and Shanghai in Mainland China. The through-train terminus is MTR Hung Hom Station. A trip of just one hour and 50 minutes will take travellers from Hung Hom to Guangzhou East.

Hong Kong travellers coming to and from Shenzhen in Mainland China via the Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau checkpoints can take a local MTR train into town after passing through Hong Kong Immigration.

Cross-border coach services are also available between Hong Kong and key cities in southern China via five major road-based land crossings in Hong Kong: Shenzhen Bay Port, Lok Ma Chau, Man Kam To, Sha Tau Kok and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge.

Major infrastructure developments, including the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) and the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong High-Speed Rail (Hong Kong section), also connect Hong Kong with Macao and Mainland China. The High-Speed Rail runs from West Kowloon and connects passengers to the national high-speed rail network.

Travel Tips

Entry Regulations: In general, all visitors to Hong Kong must have a passport that is valid for at least one month after the period of their intended stay in Hong Kong. All potential visitors are strongly advised to check with their Chinese embassy and consulate, or the Hong Kong Immigration Department, for full details of passport and visa requirements.

Visas: Travellers from more than 160 countries can enjoy visa-free visits to Hong Kong for periods varying from seven to 180 days. Visitors are required to have adequate funds to cover their stay without working, and to hold an onward or return ticket (unless in transit to Mainland China or Macao).

144-hour Convenient Visa to Guangdong Province: Foreign nationals in Hong Kong can visit Guangdong province for a maximum of 144 hours (six days) via entry ports in Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Foshan, Dongguan, Zhongshan, Jiangmen, Zhaoqing, Huizhou and Shantou* using the 144-hour Convenient Visa.

To be eligible for the 144-hour Convenient Visa, visitors:

1. Must join a tour organised by a registered Hong Kong travel agent
2. Must travel in a group consisting of a minimum of two persons and a maximum of 40 persons
3. Can have a choice of ports of entry or exit in Guangdong province, except Shantou*
4. Must enter and leave the areas together in their group via the ports of entry stated above

*must enter and exit via the same port

At the ports of entry and exit in Guangdong Province, immigration officers will examine passports and the name list of the group. Group members will not be required to fill in any immigration cards for passport stamping.

The above policy is applicable to ordinary passport holders of nations with diplomatic relations with China.

Arrival/ Departure: Generally, visitors are required to complete an Arrival/Departure card for immigration examination. Frequent visitors to Hong Kong can enjoy the convenience of computerised self-service e-Channels, which provide quick and easy immigration clearance.

Duty-free Concessions for Incoming Passengers: The duty-free concessions granted to a passenger are as follows:

1. 1 litre of alcoholic liquor with an alcoholic strength above 30% by volume measured at a temperature of 20˚C; and
2. 19 cigarettes or 1 cigar (or 25 grams of cigars), or 25 grams of other manufactured tobacco

An incoming passenger aged 18 or above is allowed to bring into Hong Kong the above goods free of duty for his/her own use. If the passenger holds a Hong Kong Identity Card, he/she must have spent 24 hours or longer outside Hong Kong (applies to liquor only).

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• his/her 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; and

• his/her unmarried dependent children under the age of 18.

For a sponsor who is a Hong Kong permanent resident or a resident who is not subject to a limit of stay (i.e. a resident with the right to land or on unconditional stay), the following dependants may apply to join him/her for residence in the HKSAR:

• his/her 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; and
• his/her unmarried dependent children under the age of 18; and
• his/her parents aged 60 or above.

Under the existing policy, while dependants, whose sponsors have been admitted into the HKSAR for study, may take up studies in the HKSAR, they are prohibited from taking up employment in the HKSAR unless they have obtained prior permission from the Director of Immigration.

An application for entry to take up residence as a dependant may be favourably considered if:

• there is reasonable proof of a genuine relationship between the applicant and the sponsor;
• there is no known record to the detriment of the applicant; 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:

• Chinese residents of the Mainland [except for those whose sponsors have been admitted to take up employment (as professionals, for investment to establish/join in business, or for training) or studies (in full-time undergraduate or post-graduate local programmes in local degree-awarding institutions), or whose sponsors have been admitted as entrants under the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme*, the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme or the Admission Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Residents];
• former Mainland Chinese residents residing in the Macao 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).

PRC passport holders living overseas, who have obtained permanent residence in an overseas country, may apply for entry as dependants. PRC passport holders who have been residing overseas for not less than one year may apply for entry as dependants to join sponsors who have resided overseas for not less than one year and been admitted to take up employment in the HKSAR**, or as entrants under the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme***. They will also have to satisfy the criteria stipulated in paragraph 1 and other normal immigration requirements.

*With effect from 15 January 2015, the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme has been suspended until further notice.

**

PRC passport holders living overseas, who meet the criteria stipulated in paragraph 4 or 5 and normal immigration requirements, may apply to enter the HKSAR for employment or investment under the General Employment Policy 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 countries or territories outside the Mainland, the HKSAR and the Macao SAR) and that the application is submitted from overseas.

***An overseas Chinese national holding a PRC passport who submits an application from overseas and who has been residing overseas for at least one year immediately before submission of the application (“overseas” means countries or territories outside the Mainland, the HKSAR and the Macao SAR) may apply to come to the HKSAR for residence under the Scheme on the strength of his/her valid PRC passport.

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• there is no security objection and no known record of serious crime in respect of the applicant;
• 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;
• there is a genuine job vacancy;
• the applicant has a confirmed offer of employment and is employed in a job relevant to his/her academic qualifications or work experience that cannot be readily taken up by the local work force; and
• the remuneration package, including income, accommodation, medical and other fringe benefits, is broadly commensurate with the prevailing market level for professionals in the HKSAR.

An application for a visa/entry permit to enter the HKSAR for investment may be favourably considered if:

• there is no security objection and no known record of serious crime in respect of the applicant;
• 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
  • 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.
  • 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;
    • Small Entrepreneur Research Assistance Programme and Enterprise Support Scheme administered by the Innovation and Technology Commission; and
    • Design Incubation Programme administered by the Hong Kong Design Centre.

These entry arrangements do not apply to:

• Chinese residents of the Mainland; and
• nationals of Afghanistan, Cuba, Laos, Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of), Nepal and Vietnam.

PRC passport holders living overseas, who meet the criteria stipulated in paragraph 4 or 5 and normal immigration requirements, may apply to enter the HKSAR for employment or investment under the General Employment Policy 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 countries or territories outside the Mainland, the HKSAR and the Macao SAR) and that the application is submitted from overseas.

Persons admitted under this arrangement may 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 1, and unmarried dependent children under the age of 18. 

Please see Residence as Dependant in Hong Kong for more information.

Note:

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.

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Quota

There will be an annual quota  for nationals of each participating country and qualified applications will be approved on a first-come first-served basis.

Eligibility Criteria

A national of the participating country meeting the following eligibility criteria may be granted a Working Holiday visa for participating in the Scheme:

1. he/she holds a valid national passport issued by the participating country and is ordinarily residing in that participating country (for applicant from the Netherlands, he/she should be habitually residing in the European part of the Netherlands);
2. his/her primary intention is to holiday in Hong Kong;
3. he/she is aged between 18 and 30;
4. he/she is able to produce financial proof of having an amount sufficient for his/her maintenance during his/her proposed stay in the HKSAR, e.g. bank statement, saving accounts passbooks, etc.;
5. he/she holds a return air ticket or financial proof of having sufficient funds to purchase a return air ticket; and
6. he/she agrees to hold medical, healthcare (including hospitalisation), repatriation and liability insurance to remain in force throughout his/her stay in the HKSAR.

Working Holiday Scheme Notes

• Note 1
  Countries that have bilateral Working Holiday Scheme agreement with the HKSAR (as at 5 July 2019)
  • Australia (annual quota = 5000)
  • Austria (annual quota = 100)
  • Canada (annual quota = 200)
  • France (annual quota = 750)
  • Germany (annual quota = 300)
  • Hungary (annual quota = 200)
  • Ireland (annual quota = 200)
  • Italy (annual quota = 500) (effective date of the scheme to be confirmed)
  • Japan (annual quota = 1500)
  • Korea (Republic of) (annual quota = 1000)
  • Netherlands (annual quota = 100)
  • New Zealand (annual quota = 400)
  • Sweden (annual quota = 500)
  • United Kingdom (annual quota = 1000)
• Note 2
  Temporary employment
  • Australian citizens – not allowed to work for the same employer for more than three months
  • Austrian citizens – not allowed to work for more than six months
  • British citizens – not allowed to work for more than 12 months
  • Canadian citizens – not allowed to work for the same employer for more than three months
  • Dutch citizens – not allowed to work for the same employer for more than six months
  • French citizens – not allowed to work for the same employer for more than six months
  • German citizens – not allowed to work for the same employer for more than three months
  • Hungarian citizens – not allowed to work for the same employer for more than six months
  • Irish citizens – not allowed to work for the same employer for more than three months
  • Italian citizens – not allowed to work for the same employer for more than three months and up to a total of six months (effective date of the scheme to be confirmed)
  • Japanese citizens – not allowed to work for the same employer for more than six months
  • Korean citizens – not allowed to work for the same employer for more than six months
  • New Zealand citizens – not allowed to work for the same employer for more than three months
  • Swedish citizens – not allowed to work for the same employer for more than six months
• Note 3
  Number of study or training courses allowed
  • Australian citizens – any number (course duration of not more than three months)
  • Austrian citizens – any number (cumulative duration of courses not more than six months)
  • British citizens – any number (cumulative duration of courses not more than 12 months)
  • Canadian citizens – any number (cumulative duration of courses not more than six months)
  • Dutch citizens – any number (cumulative duration of courses not more than six months)
  • French citizens – one only (course duration of not more than six months)
  • German citizens – one only (course duration of not more than six months)
  • Hungarian citizens – one only (course duration of not more than six months)
  • Irish citizens – not allowed
  • Italian citizens – any number (cumulative duration of courses not more than six months) (effective date of the scheme to be confirmed)
  • Japanese citizens – any number (cumulative duration of courses not more than six months)
  • Korean citizens – one only (course duration of not more than six months)
  • New Zealand citizens – one only (course duration of not more than three months)
  • Swedish citizens – any number (cumulative duration of courses not more than six months)
• Note 4
  Financial proof for maintenance in Hong Kong
  • Australian citizens – financial proof of having not less than HK$20,000
  • Austrian citizens – financial proof of having not less than HK$20,000
  • British citizens – financial proof of having not less than HK$22,000
  • Canadian citizens – financial proof of having not less than HK$15,000
  • Dutch citizens – financial proof of having not less than HK$20,000
  • French citizens – financial proof of having not less than HK$25,000
  • German citizens – financial proof of having not less than HK$20,000
  • Hungarian citizens – financial proof of having not less than HK$25,000
  • Irish citizens – financial proof of having not less than HK$20,000
  • Italian citizens – to be confirmed (effective date of the scheme to be confirmed)
  • Japanese citizens – financial proof of having not less than HK$20,000
  • Korean citizens – financial proof of having not less than HK$20,000
  • New Zealand citizens – financial proof of having not less than HK$14,000
  • Swedish citizens – financial proof of having not less than HK$20,000
• Note 5
  Medical, healthcare (including hospitalisation), repatriation and liability insurance
  • This item applies to participants from Canada, Hungary, Ireland, Italy (effective date of the scheme to be confirmed), the Republic of Korea, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Sweden and the United Kingdom.
    For participants from France, they should produce proof of comprehensive liability and medical insurance covering hospitalisation, pregnancy, disability and repatriation.
    For participants from Austria and Germany, they should have comprehensive liability and medical insurance covering hospitalisation and repatriation.
    For participants from Japan, they should have sufficient medical insurance.
• Note 6
  Addresses of overseas Chinese diplomatic and consular missions in the participating countries
  • Australia
    • Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Australia
      • 15 Coronation Drive, Yarralumla, ACT 2600, Canberra, Australia
    • Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Australia
      • 39 Dunblane Street, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
      • 45 Brown Street, East Perth WA 6004, Australia
      • 75-77 Irving Road, Toorak, Melbourne, Victoria 3142, Melbourne, Australia
      • Level 9, 79 Adelaide Street, Brisbane QLD 4000, Australia
  • Austria
    • Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Austria
      • Metternichgasse 4, 1030 Vienna, Austria
  • Canada
    • Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Canada
      • 515 St. Patrick Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, K1N 5H3
    • Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Canada
      • 240 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5R 2P4
      • 3380 Granville Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, V6H 3K3
      • Suite 100, 1011-6th Ave., S.W., Calgary, Alberta, Canada, T2P 0W1
      • 2100 Ste-Catherine West, 8th floor Montreal, Quebec, Canada, H3H 2T3
  • France
    • Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in France
      • 11 Avenue George V, 75008 Paris, France
    • Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in France
      • 50 Rue Du General De Gaulle Saint-Denis, Ile De La Reunion, France
      • 26 Rue Louis Blanc, 69006 Lyon, France
      • 20 Boulevard Carmagnole, 13008 Marseille, France
      • 35 Rue Bautain, 67000 Strasbourg, France
  • Germany
    • Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Germany
      • Markisches Ufer 54, 10179 Berlin, Germany
    • Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Germany
      • Stresemannallee 19-23, 60596 Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
      • Elbchaussee 268, 22605 Hamburg, Germany
      • Romanstr. 107 80639 Muenchen, Germany
  • Hungary
    • Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Hungary
      • 1068 Budapest, Varosligeti fasor 20-22, Hungary
  • Ireland
    • Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Ireland
      • 40 Ailesbury Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4, Ireland
  • Italy (effective date of the scheme to be confirmed)
    • Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Italy
      • No. 56, Via Bruxelles, 00198 Rome, Italy
    • Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Italy
      • Via Dei Della Robbia, 89-91 Firenze, Italy
      • Via Benaco, 4 20139 Milano, Italia
  • Japan
    • Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Japan
      • 3-4-33 Moto-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-0046 Japan
    • Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Japan
      • 10-35 Hashiguchi Machi Nagasaki City, 852-8114 Japan
      • 3-9-2 Utsubohonmachi Nishiku Osaka, 550-0004 Japan
      • Fukuoka-Shi Chiuo-Ku Jigyohama 1-3-3, 810-0065 Japan
      • 2-8-37 Higashisakura, Higashi-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 461-0005 Japan
      • 5-1, Nishi 23-Chome, Minam 13-Jo, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, 064-0913 Japan
      • 5220-18, Nishiohata-cho, Chuo-ku, Niigata, 951-8104 Japan
  • Korea (Republic of)
    • Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of Korea
      • 54 Hyoja-Dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, the Republic of Korea
    • Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of Korea
      • 1418, U-2 Dong, Haeundae, Busan, the Republic of Korea
      • 919-6, Wolsan-dong, Nam-gu, Gwangju, the Republic of Korea
      • 568-1, Donam-dong, Jeju-si, Jeju-do, the Republic of Korea
  • Netherlands
    • Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Netherlands
      • Willem Lodewijklaan 10 2517 JT, the Hague, the Netherlands
  • New Zealand
    • Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in New Zealand
      • 2-6 Glenmore Street, Wellington, New Zealand
    • Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in New Zealand
      • 588 Great South Road, Greenlane, Auckland, New Zealand
      • 106 Hansons Lane, Upper Riccarton, Christchurch, New Zealand
  • Sweden
    • Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Sweden
      • Lidovagen 8, 11525 Stockholm, Sweden
    • Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Sweden
      • Grönsakstorget 3 Gothenburg, Sweden
  • United Kingdom
    • Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United Kingdom
      • 49-51 Portland Place London W1B 1JL, the United Kingdom
    • Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in the United Kingdom
      • 55 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, EH12 5QG Scotland, the United Kingdom
      • Denison House, 71 Denison Road, Rusholme, Manchester M14 5RX, the United Kingdom
• Note 7
  
• Special fee arrangement for Irish, Japanese and Korean citizens
  The working holiday visas issued to Irish, Japanese and Korean citizens are free of charge.

Note: You will need to translate your supporting documents, or get them certified by a translation company.

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