Hong Kong Permanent Residency: Visa Updates & Guide

When applying for Permanent Residency in Hong Kong, you will generally need to provide a comprehensive set of documents to support your application. The following checklist covers the most common documents needed:

1. Identity Proof :
   • Hong Kong Identity Card
   • Valid travel document (e.g., passport)
2. Proof of Residence :
   • Utility bills, lease agreements, or bank statements showing your address in Hong Kong
   • Official correspondence from government or known institutions that confirm your residential status
3. Proof of Continuous Stay :
   • Entry/exit stamps in the passport
   • Official records or documents indicating continuous stay in Hong Kong for at least 7 years
4. Employment and Financial Status :
   • Employment contract and recent pay slips
   • Tax returns and proof of income
   • Bank statements to demonstrate financial stability
5. Proof of Language Proficiency (if applicable):
   • Certificates or documents that prove your ability to communicate in Chinese (Cantonese or Mandarin) or English, depending on the requirement
6. Birth Certificates and Family Status (if applicable):
   • Birth certificates of children born in Hong Kong
   • Marriage certificate, if your residency is linked to a spouse who is a permanent resident or citizen
7. Application Forms and Photographs :
   • Completed application forms for permanent residency
   • Recent passport-sized photographs
8. Supporting Documents (if applicable):
   • Educational certificates and qualifications
   • Letters from employers, community leaders, or others who can attest to your contribution and character
9. Other Legal Documents :
   • Any other documents that support your application, such as records of community service, awards, and recognitions in Hong Kong

Note: This checklist provides a general guide, but it is important to verify the specific requirements with the Hong Kong Immigration Department or a professional immigration advisor, as policies may change and additional documents may be required based on individual circumstances.

Note: For each pathway, it's crucial to provide accurate and complete documentation as required by the Hong Kong Immigration Department. Also, always verify the latest requirements as they may change over time.

Online Appliaction for Permanent Residence

Application Form

Note: You need to be in Hong Kong legally when you apply, whether by post, in person, or online. If you're not physically in Hong Kong when you apply, your application won't be processed

To obtain more application forms, click here

The process for applying for a Permanent Residence in Hong Kong typically involves the following steps:

Hong Kong permanent residency, also known as the Right of Abode (ROA), comes with various benefits like unrestricted work rights and access to social services. Here's a breakdown of how to obtain/apply for it:

1. Eligibility : You must fall into one of the following categories to be eligible to apply for permanent residency (also known as Right of Abode) in Hong Kong:
   • Chinese citizens born outside Hong Kong with at least one parent who is a Chinese citizen settled in Hong Kong.
   • Non-Chinese citizens who have lived in Hong Kong continuously for at least 7 years and have taken Hong Kong as their place of permanent residence.
   • Persons of Chinese nationality who have entered Hong Kong with valid travel documents and have lived there continuously for at least 7 years.
2. Required Documents : Depending on your specific situation, the documents required may vary. However, common documents include:
   • Passport and other identification documents.
   • Proof of continuous residence in Hong Kong (e.g., employment records, rental agreements, utility bills).
   • Marriage certificate or birth certificate (if applicable).
   • Any other documents specified by the Immigration Department of Hong Kong.
3. Application Process :
   • Obtain and complete the appropriate application form for permanent residency from the Hong Kong Immigration Department's website or their office.
   • Compile all necessary documents as per the checklist provided with the application form.
   • Submit the completed application form and supporting documents to the Immigration Department either in person or by mail.
   • Pay the required application fee.
4. Processing Time : Normally, the Immigration Department will take six weeks to process applications if all of the supporting documents provided are in order.  Further time may be required depending on the complexity of the application, and the number of applications received at the same time.
5. Approval and Collection : If your application is approved, you will be notified by the Immigration Department. You will then need to collect your Permanent Identity Card (PIC) in person.
6. Maintaining Permanent Residency : Once you obtain permanent residency, you must continue to fulfill the residency requirements and comply with Hong Kong's laws to maintain your status.

For more information, please visit the Hong Kong Immigration Department's official website by clicking here .

Important notes:

• If you want to apply for permanent residency in Hong Kong, you must be physically in Hong Kong when you submit your application. If you apply from outside Hong Kong, your application will not be processed.

Note: It's important to note that immigration laws and requirements can change, so it's advisable to check the official website of the Hong Kong Immigration Department or consult with an immigration lawyer for the most up-to-date and accurate information before proceeding with your application.