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The Hong Kong Immigration Department announced that starting from January 17, applicants for certain visa and entry permit schemes will need to submit their applications electronically.
This change is part of an effort to encourage the use of online services for visa applications.
The schemes such as General Employment Policy including for employment and investment as entrepreneurs, Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals,
Capital Investment Entrant Scheme, Working Holiday Scheme, and Residence as Dependants will now require electronic submission.
General Employment Policy (GEP) sets out the entry arrangement for persons who wish to enter the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region for employment as professionals.
Foreign workers who possess special skills, knowledge or experience of value to and not readily available in the HKSAR may apply to come to work under the GEP.
The objective of the Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP) is to attract qualified Mainland talents and professionals to work in the HKSAR in order to meet local manpower needs and enhance the HKSAR’s competitiveness in the globalised market.
The Mainland talents and professionals must possess special skills and knowledge or experience of value to and not readily available or in shortage locally
Under the Working Holiday Scheme foreigners aged between 18 and 30 may take up short-term employment and enrol in a short study or training course while they are on holiday in Hong Kong.
The New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES) opened for application on March 1, 2024. Hong Kong New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme requires a minimum investment of $HK 30 million in permissible investment assets such as assets such as stocks, funds, and bonds but excluding real estate.
The applicant has to demonstrate that he has $HK 30 million or equivalent foreign currency throughout the two years preceding the date of issuance of the Fulfillment document for application for Net Asset Assessment of the Scheme. Once approved, they can reside and pursue development in Hong Kong.
From 1 March 2025, enhancement measures on Net Asset requirement and investment requirements for New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme will come effect.
Applicants for these schemes must submit their applications online as the Hong Kong Immigration Department will no longer accept applications submitted in person, by mail, or through drop-in boxes.
The eligibility and approval requirements for these schemes remain the same. After applying, applicants can also upload additional documents and check the status of their application online.
By using electronic services, applicants can complete the entire application process, including submission, payment, and receiving their “e-Visa,” all through the ImmD mobile app, the ImmD website, or the GovHK website, without needing to visit the Immigration Office in person.
Source: https://www.financialexpress.com/business/investing-abroad-hong-kong-makes-it-compulsory-for-foreign-workers-investors-to-apply-online-for-immigrant-visas-3745792/
