Entrepreneur Visa (Entry for Investment)
The Hong Kong Entrepreneur Visa is designed for foreign nationals wishing to establish and operate their own business in Hong Kong. Applicants must demonstrate that their business will make a significant contribution to the local economy.
Key Features
- No minimum investment requirement;
- Business plan and sufficient start-up funding required;
- Processing time: approximately 4–6 weeks;
- Initial visa validity: generally 2 years, renewable;
- Eligibility for Permanent Residence after 7 years of continuous residence.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Have a clean criminal record;
- Possess relevant qualifications, professional experience or technical expertise;
- Demonstrate economic benefits to Hong Kong through job creation, use of local service providers and contribution to the local market.
Family Members
Spouses and unmarried dependent children under 18 may obtain dependant visas, allowing them to live, work and study in Hong Kong.
Employment Visa (Employment for Professionals)
Hong Kong offers a work permit scheme for skilled foreign professionals whose expertise is not readily available in the local labour market.
Key Features
- No quota restrictions;
- Processing time: approximately 4–6 weeks;
- Initial visa validity: generally 1 year, renewable;
- Eligibility for Permanent Residence after 7 years of continuous residence.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Possess relevant academic qualifications and professional experience;
- Have a confirmed job offer from a Hong Kong employer;
- Fill a genuine position that cannot easily be filled locally;
- Receive remuneration in line with Hong Kong market standards.
For newly established companies, a detailed business plan may also be required.
Family Members
Dependants are permitted to live, work and study in Hong Kong. Hong Kong also recognises certain overseas civil partnerships and same-sex marriages for dependant visa purposes.
Permanent Residence
Holders of Entrepreneur Visas and Employment Visas may apply for Permanent Residence ("Right of Abode") after seven years of continuous lawful residence in Hong Kong.
Former Investment Visa Programme (CIES)
The Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES), which allowed residence through passive investment without operating a business, was suspended for new applications on 15 January 2015.
Today, Hong Kong's primary immigration routes for foreign nationals focus on entrepreneurship, skilled employment and active economic contribution.
With efficient immigration procedures, a business-friendly environment, a competitive tax regime and its status as a leading international financial centre, Hong Kong remains an attractive destination for entrepreneurs, investors and skilled professionals seeking opportunities in Asia.