Hong Kong | Online submission for certain schemes now required

The Hong Kong government announced applicants under various admission schemes are now required to submit applications online.

Key Points:

• The Hong Kong Immigration Department (ImmD) adjusted the application submission procedures for the following admission schemes:
  • General Employment Policy (including both employment and investment as entrepreneurs)
  • Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals
  • Capital Investment Entrant Scheme
  • Training
  • Working Holiday Scheme
  • Residence as Dependent
• Effective Jan. 17, applicants under these admission schemes are required to complete their application process online through the electronic visa application service for entry permits or extensions of stay.
• Officials stated that applications submitted in person, by post or drop-in-box will no longer be accepted, and the eligibility and approval criteria for the schemes remain unchanged.

Additional Information: Applicants can complete the process of submission, payment and collection through the ImmD mobile application, the ImmD website or the GovHK website without having to visit an Immigration Office in person. Applicants can also upload additional supplementary documents as well as inquire on application status after submitting applications, all via the online system. The Immigration Department is further promoting electronic services for visa applications, and this update follows last year’s territory-wide identity card replacement as the government attempts to modernize its immigration system and digitize procedures for added convenience and efficiency.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group.

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