Hong Kong’s E-Services for Visa Applications

Spotlight on APAC Series: Hong Kong

Electronic Services for Submission of Visa Applications

In our spotlight on APAC series, we round up the latest developments across the region. In this post, we look at the Hong Kong Immigration Department (ImmD) announcement on changes to submission processes and what that means for applications under various admission policies/schemes, to further promote electronic services for visa applications.

With effect from January 17, the ImmD will change the submission means of the following admission policies/schemes:

1. General Employment Policy (including both employment and investment as entrepreneurs);

2. Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals;

3. Capital Investment Entrant Scheme;

4. Training;

5. Working Holiday Scheme; and

6. Residence as Dependants.

The ImmD will no longer accept such applications submitted in person, or by post or drop-in-box. The eligibility and approval criteria for the relevant policies/schemes remain unchanged. After submission of the applications, applicants may also upload supplementary documents and/or inquire as to the status of applications online when necessary.

Electronic services for a visa application allow applicants to complete the entire process of an application submission, payment and collection of an “e-Visa” through the ImmD mobile application, the ImmD’s website (www.immd.gov.hk/eng/index.html) or the GovHK website (www.gov.hk/en/nonresidents/), without having to visit an Immigration Office in person.

This amendment is currently only applicable to new applications, renewals and notification processes remain unaffected.

For more information or any assistance you require for Hong Kong immigration or other global matters, please do not hesitate to contact [email protected] or [email protected].

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