How To Cure Your Hong Kong Visa Extension Headache & Make Sure It Gets Approved The Very First Time!

Posted by The Visa Geeza / in Employment Visas, Family Visas, Investment Visas, Long Stay & PR, Musing, Special Programmes / 23 responses

The Hong Kong Visa Extension Kit

Let’s face it, the regular traipse down to Immigration Tower (even if it’s now metaphorically also a traipse online) to get your visa extended is a right royal pain in the @ss.

Hong Kong Visa Extension – Uncertain Process?

The process is uncertain, you’re not sure what exactly you need to prepare and there’s always that nagging doubt that they might even say NO to your application!

Hong Kong Visa Extension – How Long Will It Be For?

Moreover, you’re never really sure how long they’ll extend your visa for, the number of trips to Wanchai you’ll need to make, nor how much sitting around you’re going to have to do in a soulless government office while the Hong Kong Immigration Department do ‘their thing’, seemingly, year after year…

Hong Kong Visa Extension – Is There A Decent Free Resource to Help?

Wouldn’t it be great if there was a professionally prepared resource you could rely on to take away the hassle of the Hong Kong visa extension process? A resource that contained all the things needed to help you get the visa renewal monkey off your back, and even though it was prepared by a Hong Kong visa and immigration specialist consultancy, was completely free of charge?

Well, now there is.

The problem ultimately lies in the fact that the HKID website simply doesn’t provide all the answers to the questions which flow naturally from the process of a Hong Kong visa renewal.

Essentially, all the instructions and details of the information required to extend your visa are contained within a ‘one-size-fits-all’ visa extension application form. This makes it very difficult to suss out what the actual process is really all about. For example:

• The form speaks of a ‘current employment letter’ – but doesn’t indicate what that letter should contain.
• In some cases they want a copy of your HKID card – and often times, they do not.
• The process calls for an employment contract for some lines of work – and for others, it’s simply not needed.

While the form clearly indicates that it should take about 2 weeks to finalise your case, it doesn’t say anything about applications made late in the day, just before your visa expires; it states nothing about what to do if you’re no longer working for your original employer; it makes no mention of how to manage the situation if you’ll be away on a long-planned holiday on the date that your current visa comes to an end.

This is because the role of the Hong Kong Immigration Department is to inform and decide, not to offer advice.  Figuring out what to do in a round-peg- square-hole situation is your problem, not theirs.

But there is a solution.

It’s called the Hong Kong Visa Extension Kit.

Choose Your Visa Type:

Employment VisaInvestment VisaDependant VisaDefacto Spouse VisaSame Sex Partner VisaCapital Investment Entrants SchemeQuality Migrant Admission SchemeNon-Local Graduates VisaMainland Talents Visa

Hong Kong Visa Extension – Everything You Need

This valuable resource 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.

The Hong Kong Visa Extension Kit is available only to members of our mailing list, so this is what you need to do:

1                     Sign up to our mailing list.

2                     Receive the link to the Hong Kong Visa Extension Kit special download page.

3                     Watch the short presentation.

4                     Download the templates, checklists, official forms and the visa-specific  How-to-Apply Guide.

5                     Prepare your extension application bundle.

6                     Submit your case.

7                     Get your approval!

Best of all, if you are uncertain about the specifics which apply in your own particular situation, as a member of our mailing list, you can ask me a question and I will give you a PodCast answer within 48 hours via the HongKongVisaGeeza blog.

So, why not sign up now and get the Hong Kong Visa Extension Kit sent to you today.

It’s 100% unique, 100% professional and 100% free!

And, as always, your email information is absolutely safe with us.

So, if you’re looking for a fuss-free Hong Kong visa extension application with all of your questions answered, sign up now for the Hong Kong Visa Extension Kit right now.

More Stuff You Might Find Interesting or Useful

Paying for Visa Help? The Who’s-Who of the Hong Kong Immigration Services Industry

100% Hong Kong Visa Application Success Rate? Take It All With a Pinch of Salt

The Visa Geeza on RTHK Radio Three

Sign Up for the 100% Free Hong Kong Visa Application Roadmap

Sign Up for the 100% Free Hong Kong Visa D-I-Y Kit

 

Check Out VisaGeeza.Ai

All Our Know-How : All Our Experience : Fully Interactive

100% FREE!

The Hong Kong Training Visa – All You Need To Know To Get Approved The First Time

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

Approval Criteria for a Hong Kong Training Visa

Foreign nationals and residents of mainland China who wish to acquire specialized skills and knowledge through training  may have their application for a Hong Kong training visa approved based on strict eligibility criteria. This post aims to provide an overview of the requirements for a training visa application in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Training Visa – Are You Eligible?

An application for a Hong Kong training visa may be considered positively if the following criteria are met:

1. There should be no security objections against the applicant and no record of serious crime.
2. The bona fides of the applicant and the sponsoring company need to be satisfied.
3. The sponsoring company must be a well-established entity capable of providing the training.
4. There should be a written contract between the sponsoring company and the applicant.
5. The sponsoring company must guarantee in writing the maintenance and repatriation of the applicant.
6. The proposed duration and content of the training program must be justified, and the training not available in the applicant’s home country.

Hong Kong Training Visa Approvability Test

The approvability of a training visa application in Hong Kong is based on the following factors:

• The bona fides of the sponsoring entity providing the training.
• Whether the training can be provided in the applicant’s home country or not.
• The scope and length of the training are reasonable in all circumstances.

Training Plan – A Critical Element For a Hong Kong Training Visa

A detailed training plan that lists all activities included in the training program is a crucial requirement of a training visa application. The plan should include the following information:

1. Topics to be covered
2. Location of the training
3. Number of hours of training each day/week
4. Details of the trainer
5. The department involved

Submitting Your Hong Kong Training Visa Application

There are three ways to submit a training visa application:

1. Online
2. Via post from overseas or in person to the Receipt & Dispatch Unit of the Immigration HQ
3. As part of an application to Change Status or Visa Category if you are presently in Hong Kong as a resident or as a visitor
4. Via the nearest Chinese diplomatic mission in your country

The Hong Kong Training Visa Consideration Process

Once the application is submitted, the Immigration Department will start the process, which will be communicated through email/fax or post. The application process usually takes around 4-6 weeks. Once approved, the applicant will receive a notice of positive outcome and will be required to complete the approval formalities, including payment of a fee and obtaining a QR Code Approval Letter.

Hong Kong Training Visa Length of Stay Once Approved

The maximum period of stay for a training visa holder is 12 months, which is non-extendable. The actual period of stay is linked to the formal length of the training contract.

Resource Links

To further assist with your Hong Kong training visa application, here are some helpful links:

• Preparing Your Hong Kong Training Visa Application
• Hong Kong Training Visa Information
• Hong Kong Training Visa Templates
• Hong Kong Training Visa Checklist

Last Words …

The Hong Kong training visa program presents an opportunity for foreign nationals and residents of mainland China to acquire specialized skills and knowledge through training in Hong Kong. Eligibility criteria for the application include the bona fides of the applicant and the sponsoring company, the availability of the training program, and a reasonable scope and length of the training. It is vital to submit a detailed training plan with the application, as it increases the chances of approval. Training visa holders can bring their family members along, and their length of stay is linked to the sponsor’s.

More Stuff You May Find Useful or Interesting

Hong Kong Working Visas – Is It Possible To Build A New Business Here Relying Solely On Highly Specialist Foreign National Skills And Talent?

Can A Hong Kong Training Visa Be Used As A Stepping Stone To Any Sort Of  Full Employment Visa Subsequently?

Is 7 Weeks A Long Time For The Hong Kong Immigration Department To Finalize A Training Visa Application?

Is It Ever Possible To Extend A Hong Kong Training Visa?

What Are The Chances Of Swapping From A Training Visa To An Employment Visa For The Same Employer Once The Period Of Training Is Over?

 

Check Out VisaGeeza.Ai

All Our Know-How : All Our Experience : Fully Interactive

100% FREE!

The Impact of Brain Drain on Hong Kong and Resulting Immigration Policy Development

Posted by The Visa Geeza / in Employment Visas, Investment Visas, Musing, Special Programmes / 5 responses

The Impact of Brain Drain on Hong Kong

First Published On May 25, 2012, Updated (A Bit) August 4, 2023

The Impact of Brain Drain on Hong Kong: the term “brain drain” first appeared in 1957 in a novel called Atlas Shrugged and the term refers to the loss of skilled researchers, analysts, the accomplished and the talented – for political, industrial and social reasons.

The Impact of Brain Drain on Hong Kong – The Struggle Is Real

It’s currently frequently utilized as a dramatized synonym for loss and could be outlined as “the world transfer of resources in the shape of human capital” and “the loss of abilities or human capital to society or to the country from which migration takes place“.

Brain drain appeared in Hong Kong in 1987 when a major wave of emigration was seen experienced due to the uncertainties surrounding Hong Kong’s future in light of the 1997 hand back to China. The trend endured in the following decade thanks to the concerns of some HK residents, particularly those educated and professionally talented, about the political future under Mainland Chinese sovereignty and the enlarging immigration opportunities to be had in the more well-liked destination nations.

The Impact of Brain Drain on Hong Kong – They Leave, They Return

An annual average of 55,000 émigrés left Hong Kong between 1989 and 1995. This resulting outflow of talent impacted on the economy of Hong Kong in four discrete ways. More recent, 140,000 young (and not so young) professionals and talents decamped from Hong Kong die to the 2019 Protests and the draconian Covid19 rules in place in Hong Kong through the end of 2022.

Loss of Efficiency

In order to compensate for the lack of professionally trained employees due to their emigration, junior staff were promoted ‘beyond their station’ to take up their vacancies. As such junior staff had neither adequate coaching nor experience for these higher level positions, the standard of service and operational effectiveness were significantly negatively impacted.

Productivity of Subordinates

The exit of the very skilled influenced the output of their subordinates due to the lack of their supervision. The economy so suffered an indirect loss of output.

Loss of Human Capital

Émigrés were often highly educated, had received significant job related training and were well-experienced in their work having typically been engaged with their employers or within their professionals since the end of their formal education. Their exit represented a great loss of human capital to Hong Kong’s economy.

Outflow of Capital

In the exit prior to the 1997 Handback, most émigrés left Hong Kong with their wealth. Depending on their destination of choice, quite a number of them had to commit significant sums of capital in their new countries in order to qualify for immigration overseas.

The Impact of Brain Drain on Hong Kong – HKSAR Gov – Takes It Seriously

To address the issues caused by brain drain in the 1980s and 1990s, the government of Hong Kong took concrete measures in the development and implementation of immigration policy.

These initiatives including retention, return migration, replacement and retraining. Among those measures, replacement was a comparatively simple and acceptable way to fill the vacancies of the émigrés. Aside from the swift growth of tertiary educational opportunities, the HKSAR Government has relaxed its limitations on the importing of professionally trained employees, particularly those from the Mainland, to fill manpower openings.

Out of the phenomenon of Brain Drain emerged the Admission of Mainland Talents and Professionals Scheme, the Quality Migrants Admission Scheme, the Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates and the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme. In the meantime, the private sector has responded aggressively to the lack suitable talent caused by emigration by employing more expatriates under the General Employment Policy.

More recently, they set up the Talent Service Unit.

More Stuff You Might Find Interesting or Useful

If I Didn’t Graduate From University Will It Stop Me From Getting A Hong Kong Employment Visa?

Hitler’s HKSAR Passport Application Has Been Refused

How To Stop Worrying About Your Hong Kong Visa And Start Applying

Why Internet Forums Are A Cr@P Source Of Hong Kong Visa And Immigration Advice

What Are You Really Buying From A Hong Kong Immigration Consultant?

 

Check Out VisaGeeza.Ai

All Our Know-How : All Our Experience : Fully Interactive

100% FREE!

Getting Professional Help With Your Hong Kong Visa Application – On the Cheap!

Posted by The Visa Geeza / in Feature Article, Musing, VG Front Page / 1 response

Professional Help With Your Hong Kong Visa Application?

What I love about Hong Kong is our free market, bags of competition and loads of choices. Of course, this also applies to my profession too. I just love this picture and can’t resist sharing it here. Says it all really!

Navigating the complexities of immigration and visa applications can be a daunting task.

This is where professional help with your Hong Kong visa application becomes invaluable.

A professional immigration advisor can provide the necessary guidance and expertise to ensure a smooth and successful application process.

Hong Kong, known for its vibrant economy and strategic location, attracts thousands of individuals and businesses each year. However, the immigration process can be intricate, involving various documents, eligibility criteria, and application procedures.

This is where the role of a professional immigration advisor becomes crucial.

Professional immigration advisors are well-versed in the nuances of Hong Kong’s immigration policies. They understand the ins and outs of the application process, from the initial submission to the final approval. They can help applicants navigate the complexities of the immigration department’s requirements, ensuring that all necessary documents are correctly completed and submitted.

Moreover, professional advisors can provide invaluable assistance in dealing with unexpected issues that may arise during the application process. They have the experience and knowledge to handle any potential hurdles, from clarifying misunderstandings to addressing concerns raised by the immigration department.

The importance of professional help with your Hong Kong visa application extends beyond the application process itself.

Advisors can also provide guidance on the local business environment, employment opportunities, and residence arrangements, all of which are crucial for a successful stay in Hong Kong.

In addition, professional advisors can help applicants understand the financial implications of their move. They can provide advice on relevant financial considerations, such as the cost of living in Hong Kong, tax implications, and potential employment benefits.

The role of a professional advisor is not just about ensuring a successful visa application.

It’s about providing comprehensive support that helps applicants transition smoothly into their new life in Hong Kong. From understanding the local culture to navigating the job market, professional advisors provide invaluable assistance every step of the way.

Last words …

Professional help with your Hong Kong visa application is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of Hong Kong’s immigration process. With their expertise and guidance, applicants can focus on preparing for their new life in Hong Kong, confident that their visa application is in good hands.

More Stuff You May Find Useful or Interesting

But Stephen, How Do You Make Any Money When You Give Away All Your Hong Kong Visa Expertise Away for Free?

10 Must Have Resources for a Trouble-Free Hong Kong Employment Visa Application

10 Must Have Resources for a Successful Hong Kong Permanent Residency Application

10 Must Have Resources for Any Hong Kong Investment Visa Application

The Hong Kong Visa D-I-Y Kit – Get Yours Today!

 

Check Out VisaGeeza.Ai

All Our Know-How : All Our Experience : Fully Interactive

100% FREE!

Can a Hong Kong Training Visa Be Used As a Stepping Stone to a Full Employment Visa?

Posted by The Visa Geeza / in Employment Visas, Your Question Answered / 5 responses

The Hong Kong Training Visa Is An Oft-Misunderstood Animal.

This question is an excellent opportunity to discuss the nature of the Hong Kong Training Visa – and what you can – and can’t – do if you possess one …

Updated August 2023

QUESTION

I’m currently working in under a Hong Kong training visa. I need to go on to an employment visa.

Can I do this?

I have 3 years experience in this type of work from my time in Australia and have a degree in Small Business Studies.

I came here to do the same line of work but took a Hong Kong training visa just to see if  I like it and could adapt well.

Now I find that I have and want to get an employment visa.

Do you think this is possible if my company changes my contract? All the staff except for me are local.

Alternatively should I just try to extend and get a  further 6 months under my Hong Kong training visa ?

I would be most grateful if you could shed some light on how this might all play out for me. It’s obviously very concerning that I have the sword of damocles hanging over my head like this – I really am not sure at all if it is possible to swap from a Hong Kong training visa to an employment visa as I hope.

Many thanks for your advice and input.

More Stuff You May Find Useful or Interesting

The Typical Experience Of A Foreign National Spouse In The Hong Kong Visa Application Process

Your Employer Must Help You Secure An Employment Visa For Hong Kong

The 7 Things To Tell Your Employer About Hong Kong Employment Visa Sponsorship

Shareholder In The Company Employing You – What Do The HKID Think?

Can I Employ Myself By Getting A Hong Kong Business Investment Visa?

 

Check Out VisaGeeza.Ai

All Our Know-How : All Our Experience : Fully Interactive

100% FREE!

PODCAST ANSWER

Podcast: Play in new window

Can 2 Applicants Apply for a Hong Kong Entrepreneur Visa?

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

Can 2 Hong Kong Entrepreneur Visa Seekers Apply to Immigration Department In A Single Application?

Are you and your partner interested in applying for a Hong Kong entrepreneur visa? If so, you may be wondering if it’s possible to make a single application for both applicants. In this post, I will set out whether two applicants can apply together for such a Hong Kong entrepreneur visa and the requirements set by the Immigration Department in this scenario.

Can 2 Applicants for a Hong Kong Entrepreneur Visa Make One Single Application?

If you and your partner are planning to apply for a business investment visa as entrepreneurs, it is necessary to submit two separate applications. While both applications should reference the same business and demonstrate the ability for both of you to make a substantial contribution to the Hong Kong economy, individual applications must meet the eligibility criteria for the entrepreneur visa. Each applicant must demonstrate the potential for a well-established business and an active involvement in the management and operation of the enterprise in Hong Kong.

Qualifications for a Business Investment Visa as an Entrepreneur

To qualify for a business investment visa as an entrepreneur, certain criteria must be met. An active investment of substantial value is required, which should also create employment opportunities for the local workforce. The business itself should be of a high standard and contribute to the overall economy of Hong Kong. In other words, you need to contribute substantially to the economy of Hong Kong.

Recommended Documentation for a Hong Kong Entrepreneur Visa Application

When submitting your entrepreneur visa application, it is highly recommended to provide comprehensive documentation to support your eligibility. The following documents should be included:

• Business plan: Include a detailed business plan that outlines the nature of your business, its objectives, and a thorough market analysis.
• Financial documents: Provide evidence of the availability of funds for the investment; namely, company and personal bank statements,
• Proof of business experience: Submit documentation that demonstrates your relevant business experience and expertise.
• Proof of business registration: Include evidence of the registration of your business in Hong Kong, such as the Certificate of Incorporation, Business Registration Certificate and other documents indicating shareholders and directors.
• Employment plan: Outline the number of local job opportunities that will be created by your business.
• Properly set up office: Show you have business accomodation arrangements organised, not being your spare bedroom or kitchen table at home.
• Supporting documents: Include any additional documents that can strengthen your application, such as contracts, agreements, or testimonials.

Assessment by the Hong Kong Immigration Department

It is important to note that each Hong Kong entrepreneur visa application will be assessed on its own merits. The Immigration Department will carefully review the provided information and documentation to determine eligibility for the visa. Therefore, it is crucial for both applicants to ensure that they provide comprehensive and accurate information to support their application.

For more detailed information on the application process and requirements, please refer to the following resources:

1. Hong Kong Visa Geeza – The 3 Legs of the Application Approvability Stool: Gain insights into the different aspects considered by the Hong Kong Immigration Department when reviewing an entrepreneur visa application.
2. Hong Kong Visa Handbook – How to Get a Hong Kong Entrepreneur Visa Approved: The Inside Scoop Introduction: Explore valuable information and tips on obtaining approval for your entrepreneur visa in Hong Kong.
3. Hong Kong Visa Handbook – How Important Is a Good Set of Financial Projections in a Hong Kong Business Investment Visa Application: Understand the significance of providing accurate and compelling financial projections in your entrepreneur visa application.
4. Hong Kong Visa Handbook – How to Successfully Apply for an Entrepreneur Visa in Hong Kong: Discover essential steps and strategies for a successful entrepreneur visa application in Hong Kong.

Remember, a well-prepared application with comprehensive documentation increases your chances of obtaining a Hong Kong entrepreneur visa.

More Stuff You May Find Useful or Interesting

How Important Is A Good Set Of Financial Projections In A Hong Kong Entrepreneur Visa Application?

Is There A Minimum Number Of Days You Need To Be In Hong Kong In Order To Maintain Your Entrepreneur Visa?

Is There Such An Animal As An Employment Visa For An Independant Contractor In Hong Kong?

Business Investment (Entrepreneur(Visas) – A Leg-Up For Start-Ups In Hong Kong

How To Apply For A Hong Kong Business Investment (Entrepreneur) Visa – Without Any Professional Help!

 

Check Out VisaGeeza.Ai

All Our Know-How : All Our Experience : Fully Interactive

100% FREE!

Training Visa Application? Is 7 Weeks A Long Time to Wait For The Hong Kong Immigration Department To Approve?

Posted by The Visa Geeza / in Employment Visas, Your Question Answered / 4 responses

How Long Does It Take To Finalise A Hong Kong Training Visa Application?

Hong Kong training visa application – foreign nationals can come to Hong Kong to receive training.  The question is – how long can you reasonably expect the visa consideration exercise to take?

Updated July 2023

QUESTION

I am making a Hong Kong training visa application as I recently signed a contract for a 12-month training with one of the biggest insurance companies in Hong Kong. 

My application for training visa has been submitted at the beginning of April, by the visa agency working with that company.

And now I am still waiting for the results.

As for my personal information, I am Chinese (PRC) and I have lived in Germany for the past six years to complete my undergraduate/graduate study.

I obtained my diploma in February this year. I hold a residence permit in Germany renewable each year.

The immigration office has asked supporting documents from the insurance company in the past weeks as well as my future plans in writing.

Now they are in completely silent.

I was told by the agency dealing with my visa application that the junior officers in the Immigration Department could not decide how to proceed with my application.

So the senior officers are looking at my documents. But seven weeks have been passed since the submission of my application until today.

I would like to know whether you have already seen someone spending this long to obtain a training visa and my chance to actually obtaining one from your point of view.

If you have some suggestions to accelerate this process, do not hesitate to give them to me as well! I really need them.

Many thanks for your help!

More Stuff You May Find Interesting or Useful

The Typical Experience Of A Foreign National Spouse In The Hong Kong Visa Application Process

Your Employer Must Help You Secure An Employment Visa For Hong Kong

The 7 Things To Tell Your Employer About Hong Kong Employment Visa Sponsorship

Shareholder In The Company Employing You – What Do The HKID Think?

Can I Employ Myself By Getting A Hong Kong Business Investment Visa?

 

Check Out VisaGeeza.Ai

All Our Know-How : All Our Experience : Fully Interactive

100% FREE!

 

PODCAST ANSWER

Podcast: Play in new window