Hong Kong Top Talent Pass | RTHK Radio 3 | Backchat | What’s The Situation Today?

Posted by The Visa Geeza / in Feature Article, Musing, Special Programmes, VG Front Page / No responses

The Hong Kong Top Talent Pass & Other Visas

Hong Kong Top Talent Pass – a 40 minutes discussion on RTHK Radio 3 Backchat on 25th September 2023

I Recently Contributed To A RTHK Radio 3 Backchat Discussion on the Hong Kong Top Talent Pass Scheme And The Immigration State Of Play In Attracting Foreign Talents To The HKSAR

 

LISTEN HERE

 

Understanding the Hong Kong Top Talent Pass Scheme

The Hong Kong Top Talent Pass Scheme (“TTPS”) is meticulously designed to facilitate eligible individuals in acquiring employment in Hong Kong. To be considered for the Hong Kong Top Talent Pass, applicants must fulfil the criteria of one of the following categories:

1. Category A: High-Income Earners

• Eligibility: Individuals with an annual income of at least HK$2.5 million (or its equivalent in foreign currency) in the year preceding the application.
• Income Types: Includes taxable employment or business income such as salary, allowances, stock options, and profits from self-owned companies. Personal investment income is excluded.

2. Category B: Experienced Graduates

• Eligibility: Degree holders from one of the world’s top 100 universities with a minimum of three years of work experience in the past five years prior to applying.

3. Category C: Recent Graduates

• Eligibility: Recent degree graduates from one of the world’s top 100 universities with less than three years of work experience.
• Note: This category has limited availability and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. It does not apply to non-local students who obtained their undergraduate qualification in a full-time, locally-accredited program in Hong Kong.

How to Apply

To embark on the journey to secure a Hong Kong Top Talent Pass, applicants must complete an online application and submit the necessary supporting documents. The outcome is communicated via email, ensuring a seamless and efficient process.

Documentation

• Category A: Proof of income, such as a salary tax assessment notice, proof of stock options, or financial statements.
• Categories B & C: Academic qualifications equivalent to a recognized Hong Kong bachelor’s degree from the world’s top 100 universities.

Benefits and Conditions

Individuals admitted under the Hong Kong Top Talent Pass Scheme enjoy a plethora of benefits, including an initial 24-month stay with no additional conditions and the freedom to change jobs without notifying the Immigration Department. They can also bring their dependents, provided they can support them financially and offer suitable accommodation.

Dependents

• You are allowed to work or study in Hong Kong.
• Extensions are granted on a 3-3-year pattern, with the possibility of a six-year extension under the top-tier employment stream for eligible TTPS individuals.

Points to Remember

• TTPS applicants can only receive an “initial stay” once.
• Current residents can apply for TTPS status and, if approved, obtain an entry Hong Kong Top Talent Pass Scheme visa by leaving and re-entering Hong Kong.

Last Words …

The Hong Kong Top Talent Pass Scheme is a wholly new programme, opening doors to opportunities for top-tier professionals and graduates from around the globe. By understanding the intricacies of the application process and eligibility criteria, aspiring applicants can navigate their way to a promising future in Hong Kong, the greatest city in the world! (I’m biased!).

VisaGeeza.Ai – Making Hong Kong Immigration A Lot Easier

 

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All About The HKID Smartcard | Features Overview | Still A Three Month Waiting List For A Booking

Posted by The Visa Geeza / in Feature Article, Musing / No responses

All About the HKID Smartcard | A Comprehensive Guide | What’s Involved

Although getting an appointment to change your ID card is still a long-winded palaver …

All You Need To Know

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about the upgraded HKID Smartcard, from its features and benefits to the application process. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of this advanced identification document. Please note, however, that it’s still about a 3-month waiting period to get an appointment …

1. Understanding the HKID Smartcard:

   The new HKID Smartcard is an enhanced version of the traditional identity card, equipped with advanced features and technology. It addresses obsolescence issues, improves durability, and upgrades the chip technology of the previous card, ensuring a more secure and convenient identification experience.

2. Benefits and Functions of the HKID Smartcard:

   In addition to serving as a valid identification document, the Smart HKID Card offers numerous benefits and functions. It provides access to various public services, including public library services, leisure facility bookings, the online health record-sharing system, and subsidized e-health services. Moreover, the Smartcard streamlines immigration processes, both within Hong Kong and during international travel.

3. Application and Replacement Process:

   The application and replacement process for the Smart HKID Card followed a structured approach. The card replacement exercise commenced in the fourth quarter of 2018 and closed four years later. Individuals were called up for card replacement based on their year of birth, with priority given to specific groups like immigration staff, police officers, and government officials initially. Appointment booking, online application submission, and self-service registration and collection kiosks at designated centres ensured a smooth and efficient process for applicants UNTIL they shut it down earlier this year (just about the time 1 million COVID refugees who had missed their appointments by year of birth came back and started seeking to cover for their missed slots for processing).

4. Assisting the Elderly and Disabled:

   The Hong Kong Immigration Department recognizes the need for special assistance and support for the elderly and disabled individuals during the card replacement process. Immigration staff will residential care homes, providing on-site assistance to this group. Additionally, NGOs can organize group visits to designated centres to facilitate the process for those with limited mobility.

5. Tips for Photo Submission:

   When it’s time to have your photo taken for the HKID Smartcard, keep in mind that you can take multiple shots and select the best one for your document. Wearing eyeglasses is permitted, although it is recommended to wear non-reflective lenses. Rest well beforehand to appear fresh and lively in the photo.

6. The Technology Behind the Smartcard:

   The HKID Smartcard uses cutting-edge laser engraving technology to add the photo to a polycarbonate card. The decision to use black-and-white imaging instead of colour ensures better quality, security, and durability. This advanced technology guarantees the Smartcard’s longevity, designed to last up to 15 years.

Last Words …

The new HKID Smartcard brings numerous advancements, benefits, and convenience to residents of Hong Kong. It not only serves as a valid identification document but also provides access to a range of public services and simplifies immigration processes. Hopefully, the ID card appointment booking situation will get much better, sooner.

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Hong Kong Dependent Visa | My 91 Year Old Father | Can I Get One | What Do I Need To Do?

Posted by The Visa Geeza / in Family Visas, Feature Article, VG Front Page, Your Question Answered / 2 responses

Can I Get A Dependent Visa For My 91-Year-Old Father?

Why should age get in the way of family reunion?

QUESTION

Can I get a Hong Kong dependent visa in this instance? My 91-year-old father needs to come to live with me in Hong Kong because he has no one to look after him in the UK where he lives.

He has UK and Australian passports.

I have a flat I own in Hong Kong and considerable savings but very little income as I have retired from full-time work and just do freelance work these days.

I am a Hong Kong permanent resident and I can definitely provide for my father.

Will I be able to get him dependent status?

TEXT ANSWER

Hong Kong Dependent Visa

A Hong Kong dependent visa allows family members of Hong Kong residents or permanent residents to live and work in Hong Kong. This visa is typically granted to spouses or unmarried children under the age of 18, but may also be extended to elderly parents where the sponsor is a PR of Hong Kong.

Roof Over Head / Food On Table

To apply for a Hong Kong dependent visa, the sponsor (Hong Kong resident or permanent resident) must prove that they can support their family member(s) financially. This means that they must provide evidence of their income, such as payslips, employment contracts, or tax returns. If the sponsor is self-employed, they will need to provide documentation of their business and income.

Proof Of Relationship

The sponsor must also provide proof of their relationship with the family member(s) they are sponsoring. For spouses, this means providing a marriage certificate. For elderly parents and children, a birth certificate will be required.

Application Form ID997

As part of the application process, the sponsor will need to fill out various forms and provide supporting documents for their family member(s). The dependent visa application process can be complex and time-consuming, so it is essential to seek professional guidance throughout the process.

Permitted Activity

Once the dependent visa is approved, the family member(s) will be able to reside and work in Hong Kong without restriction. However, the visa holder must maintain their dependent status by ensuring that their sponsor remains a Hong Kong resident.

Last Words …

In conclusion, a Hong Kong dependent visa provides family members of Hong Kong residents or permanent residents the opportunity to live and work in Hong Kong. The application process can be complex, and it is crucial to seek professional guidance to ensure a successful outcome.

In the instant case, however, it appears unlikely the 91-year-old father will be looking to work!

 

 

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Hong Kong | Extension Of Visa Requirements | Advice & Assistance | D-I-Y Kit | 100% FREE!

Posted by The Visa Geeza / in Employment Visas, Family Visas, Investment Visas, Musing, Special Programmes / 3 responses

Extension Of Visa Requirements

Everything You Need To Extend Your Hong Kong Residence Visa With Our D-I-Y Visa Extension Kit 100% FREE!

Extension of Visa Requirements? The Hong Kong Visa Extension Kit is a professionally prepared resource you can rely on to take away the all-too-frequent hassle of the Hong Kong visa extension process. This valuable immigration service contains all of the information, guidance and templates you need to process any kind of residence visa extension for Hong Kong – completely free of charge.

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Extending Your Hong Kong Visa with the Hong Kong Visa Extension Kit

Timing

For the extension of visa requirements, start preparing your application paperwork 35-40 days before your Hong Kong visa is set to expire.

Forms Required

Use the specific forms outlined in the Hong Kong Visa Extension Kit. For the extension of visa requirements for employment visas and accompanying family, for example, the process calls for forms ID91, ID481A, and ID481B.

Submission

Follow the guidance in the Hong Kong Visa Extension Kit and aim to submit your application at least 30 days before your visa expires.

Application Method

1. Online: The Hong Kong Visa Extension Kit shows that you can start your application entirely online.
2. Walk-In: Alternatively, you can walk into the relevant floor of the Immigration Tower without an appointment, but be prepared for a wait or even a return visit if the daily quota is full. The floor you attend depends on the visa type you hold.

Steps

For the extension of visa requirements, follow the steps, templates, and flowcharts provided in the Hong Kong Visa Extension Kit for a streamlined process.

Special Cases

If there has been a change in your circumstances, we recommend submitting a question for personalized advice within 48 hours.

Last Words …

The Hong Kong Visa Extension Kit serves as a comprehensive guide for extending various types of Hong Kong visas. It offers a step-by-step approach, complete with templates and flowcharts, to help you navigate the administrative maze. By adhering to the timelines and using the correct forms as advised in the Kit, you increase your chances of an administratively smooth visa extension in Hong Kong.

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Short Term Work Visa For Hong Kong | Cancelled If the Holder Activates It | But Only Starts Work Just Before Expiry?

Posted by The Visa Geeza / in Employment Visas, Uncategorized, Your Question Answered / No responses

Will A Short Term Work Visa Be Cancelled Due To Non-Activation?

Short term work visa for Hong Kong – I originally answered this question 9 years ago but it is still relevant today …

 

QUESTION  OF  THE  WEEK

We have sponsored an Indian passport holder for a short term work visa for Hong Kong to work “legally” here in early September 2014.

However, due to personal matters, he went back to India in early October and is expecting to be back at the end of October.

And he told us that the immigration office had stamped “journey completed” on his work visa, so we are wondering IF his work visa is still valid to come back to work for us?

If his short term work visa for Hong Kong has expired, he will enter Hong Kong as a Visitor with 14 days visa free period to stay then we will need to apply for a work visa for him again?

PS. the short term work visa for Hong Kong we sponsored him is going to expire on 30 November. 

ANSWER HERE

Your Essential Guide To Applying For A Short Term Work Visa For Hong Kong

Overview

Are you planning to embark on, say, a consulting engagement in Hong Kong for a short period of time? If so, it is essential to obtain a short term work visa to engage in such activities lawfully. In Hong Kong, the director of immigration has established specific guidelines for visitors engaging in consulting activities. This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide to obtaining a short term work visa for Hong Kong.

Process and Requirements

The law in Hong Kong is clear that even if you intend to engage in consulting activities for a short period of time, you will need the express consent of the director of immigration to do so. Proper documentation, sponsorship, and disclosure of business information are required to ensure compliance with immigration laws.

Short Term Consulting Activities

The Immigration Department in Hong Kong is responsible for approving visa applications, including those enabling visitors to perform consulting activities. The Department has specific criteria that need to be met by applicants, including disclosure of business information and the need for a proper sponsor in Hong Kong.

Special Dispensation

There is the possibility of special dispensation for 14 days if you can get the support of a government-accredited agency.

Application Process and Timelines

If you intend to apply for a short term work visa for Hong Kong, you will need to complete ID 990B sponsorship form and ID 990A employment visa application form. Providing an express statement or contract that specifies the consulting services you intend to offer is also essential. Once you have completed all these requirements and submitted your application, you can expect the process to take approximately four to six weeks.

Conclusion and Guidance

The importance of a short term work visa for Hong Kong cannot be overemphasized to visitors intending to engage in consulting activities. To ensure compliance with immigration laws in Hong Kong, proper documentation, sponsorship, and disclosure of business information are essential. Following the steps outlined in the Hong Kong visa handbook and meeting all requirements will increase the chances of success and lead to a hassle-free experience in Hong Kong.

Remember, if you plan to engage in consulting activities in Hong Kong for a short period of time, it is essential to obtain a short term work visa. Applying for a work visa can be a complicated process, but following the guidance laid out in this blog post will enable you to navigate it successfully.

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Hong Kong Work Visa | What Does It Mean | Suitable Credible Sponsor?

Posted by The Visa Geeza / in Employment Visas, Investment Visas, Musing / 4 responses

A Suitable Credible Sponsor For Your Hong Kong Work Visa Application?

Over the last 20 years or so I have coined a number of phrases in Hong Kong immigration parlance …

Suitable credible sponsor for a work visa? In this short piece, I discuss how the Hong Kong Immigration Department assess the bona fides of a Hong Kong company seeking to sponsor the employment visa permissions of a foreign national employee.

Condition Precedent

To ensure the approval of your Hong Kong employment visa application, it is crucial to have a suitable and credible sponsor. The Immigration Department carefully examines the suitability and credibility of the employer during the application process. Here is everything you need to know about how a Hong Kong company can be deemed suitable and credible:

Definition of a Suitable Credible Sponsor

* A suitable sponsor refers to an employer who meets the requirements set by the Immigration Department for sponsoring an employment visa.
* A credible sponsor is an employer who has a good track record and is considered trustworthy by the Immigration Department.

Factors Considered by the Immigration Department

1. Financial Stability: The Immigration Department assesses the financial stability of the employer to ensure they can fulfil their obligations towards the sponsored employee.
2. Business Track Record: The employer’s track record, including their business history, reputation, and compliance with laws and regulations, is evaluated.
3. Employer of Hong Kong Locals: The employer is presently employing Hong Kong locals in its business.
4. Industry Knowledge: The employer’s knowledge and experience in the relevant industry are considered to determine their suitability as a sponsor.
5. Properly Set Up Office: The employer has suitable business premises out of which it is presently operating.

Documentation Required

6. Financial Documents: The employer must provide financial statements, bank statements, and other relevant financial documents to demonstrate their financial stability.
7. Business Registration: The employer’s business registration documents, including the Certificate of Incorporation and Business Registration Certificate, are required.
8. Employment Contracts: The employment contract between the employer and the sponsored employee should be comprehensive and comply with Hong Kong labour laws.
9. Business Plan: If the employer is a new business, a detailed business plan outlining the nature of the business, market analysis, financial projections, and staffing plan is necessary.

Importance of a Well-Established Employer

* A well-established employer with a proven track record is more likely to be considered suitable and credible by the Immigration Department.
** Established employers are expected to have the necessary resources, financial stability, and industry knowledge to support the sponsored employee.
*** New businesses may face additional scrutiny and need to provide a compelling business plan to establish their suitability and credibility.

Learn More …

To learn more about the suitability and credibility of an employer for a Hong Kong employment visa application, you can refer to the following sources:

Hong Kong Visa Centre – Establishing the Bona Fides of a Hong Kong Employer – This resource source explains what the Immigration Department looks for when establishing the bona fides of a Hong Kong employer as a suitable and credible sponsor in the context of an IANG application (the requirements are the same whether GEP or IANG).

Hong Kong Visa Centre – Establishing Financial Bona Fides for New Businesses – If the proposed employer is a new business, this source provides insights into how new businesses can establish their financial bona fides to be deemed suitable and credible sponsors.

It is essential to provide comprehensive and detailed information in your employment visa application to demonstrate the suitability and credibility of your proposed employer. By following the guidelines and providing the necessary documentation, you can increase the chances of a successful application.

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Unconditional Stay | Hong Kong | The Role It Plays Today | Do You Need It? | Can You Qualify?

Posted by The Visa Geeza / in Long Stay & PR, Musing / 1 response

The Ultimate Guide to Unconditional Stay in Hong Kong

The Second Cousin To The Right Of Abode

Introduction

Unconditional Stay? Since the enactment of the Basic Law and the implementation of the arrangements for the Right of Abode in the HKSAR, the role of Unconditional Stay status in the realm of Hong Kong immigration practice has very much taken a back seat although, as you can see from this presentation taken from the Hong Kong Visa Handbook above, there is a place for it today.

What is Unconditional Stay in Hong Kong?

Unconditional Stay status in Hong Kong is not the same as permanent residence or the right of abode. It serves as an administrative convenience, offering certain benefits to foreign nationals. This status allows you to live and work in Hong Kong without worrying about visa restrictions.

Eligibility Criteria for Unconditional Stay

To qualify for Unconditional Stay in Hong Kong, you must meet the following criteria:

– Seven years of continuous ordinary residence in Hong Kong
– Hold a qualifying visa throughout this period

**Note**: Foreign domestic helpers and those admitted under the Supplementary Labour Scheme are not eligible for this status.

Benefits of Unconditional Stay

The primary advantage of obtaining Unconditional Stay status is the increased flexibility it offers in terms of permitted activities (unlimited) and the duration of stay in Hong Kong (unlimited). It essentially frees you from the clutches of the Hong Kong Immigration Department.

How to Apply for Unconditional Stay

To apply for this status, you must submit an application form ID91 for each applicant to the Extension Section of Immigration HQ. The application process involves multiple steps, including providing various documents like:

– A copy of your resume
– Full copies of all passports held during the previous seven-year period
– Copies of salary tax returns for the last seven years
– And more…

For a complete checklist, you can refer to this Pre-Submission Checklist for Unconditional Stay.

Important Points to Remember

1. Physical Presence: You must be physically present in Hong Kong at least once in any given 12-month period to retain this status.
2. Continuous Residence: Any absence from Hong Kong exceeding six months must be justified when seeking it.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information, you can refer to these resources:

– Am I Compelled to Apply for Hong Kong Permanent Residency After 7 Years?
– Hong Kong Unconditional Stay Visa Information
– Unconditional Stay Application
– Crafting Your Application Plan
– Official Application Form
– How to Complete the Application Form
– How to Submit & Manage Your Application

 

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