Visa information

Visitors from most countries can enter Hong Kong without a visa for periods varying from 7 days to 6 months depending on their nationalities. If they wish to stay longer they must apply for a visa before traveling to Hong Kong. On arrival in Hong Kong, visitors have to satisfy immigration officers that they possess an onward or return ticket and that they have adequate funds for their stay in Hong Kong without work (eg. A confirmed hotel reservation and a valid international credit card) Visitors are not allowed to enter employment, study or join any business. Visitors are not allowed to change their status after arrival. While traveling to Hong Kong for study or work visas will be required.

Student visa :
Hong Kong Immigration department issues student visas to applicants enrolling in Full-Time courses. Students should not enter into Hong Kong with a tourist visa and convert that into a student visa later on. Documents required for visa application for education in Hong Kong are as follows :
- A sponsorship form (ID 428D). If an applicant has difficulty in nominating a sponsor the Universities can assist the applicant in finding a sponsor.
- A letter of acceptance from the school which the applicant wishes to enter
- If the applicant is under the age of 18, a letter of consent from one of the applicants parents
- Evidence of financial standing stating sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses in Hong Kong
- Undertaking from the sponsor that the applicant will be staying with home; or evidence that a place has been provided in a recognized boarding school

In addition to the above mentioned documents, other information/documents in support of the application may be required by the processing officer in individual cases. All non Hong Kong students who intend to stay for more than 6 months should obtain a Hong Kong Identity card after their arrival.

Work Visas :
To get a work visa in Hong Kong you will need —
- Sponsorship form (ID 428B)
Copy of sponsors certificate of incorporation and Articles of Association
- Financial standing of sponsors company
- Company staff list with salary offered and list of expatriate staff previously/currently recruited from overseas.
- Service contract with salary and benefits
- Description of applicants post
- Details and proof of academic qualifications and experience relevant to post
- Letter from sponsor stating why the post cannot be filled locally and why sponsor requires expatriate services.