Hong Kong is a well-known global financial and business hub that attracts individuals looking to start and grow. For long-term benefits, many people aspire to obtain Hong Kong Permanent Residency because of its renowned low taxes, first-rate infrastructure, and exceptional quality of life. Permanent residency in Hong Kong, commonly referred to as the right of abode (ROA), offers distinct advantages for individuals intending to remain in the HKSAR for an extended period. Along with a few other considerations, your nationality and the length of time you have lived in Hong Kong will determine your eligibility for the right of abode.
Hong Kong PR provides individuals with the Right to Abode, enabling them to reside, work, or start a business without visa limitations. Those who obtain a Hong Kong PR visa will be able to travel freely within the region without any limitations and will have access to public services like healthcare and education.
Eligibility Criteria for Obtaining Permanent Residency in Hong Kong
Right of Abode is a provision established in the Hong Kong statute that states citizens do not need to possess any additional citizenship aside from the rights granted by this law.
- Citizenship
Residents of Hong Kong who hold Chinese nationality
2. Ongoing Ordinary Residence for Seven Years
- The applicant must have legally lived in Hong Kong for a minimum of 7 years prior to their application.
- Short visits or work-related temporary absences do not affect this count.
- Absences from Hong Kong that are prolonged or frequent, unless there are good reasons (like work obligations outside of Hong Kong), can interfere with the continuity of residency.
3. Verification of Ongoing Residency
- The candidate must demonstrate that Hong Kong is his primary residence rather than merely a place of employment or business.
- Examples of evidence include utility bills, tax obligations, lease agreements, and real estate titles.
Having financial independence
- An applicant must demonstrate his financial independence because relying on government assistance could make his application less strong.
- While business owners should provide company registrations and financial statements, salaried individuals may find salary slips, tax returns, and employment contracts relevant.
Clear Criminal Record: Having a clean criminal record is essential, as any previous illegal actions could lead to the application’s denial.
What Documents Are Needed for a Hong Kong PR Visa?
These papers are required to qualify for permanent residency in Hong Kong. The applicant must submit evidence of ongoing residence, financial self-sufficiency, and ties to Hong Kong to the Immigration Department.
- Personal Details
- Properly filled Application Form (ROP 145) – Official document for Right of Abode Application.
- Valid Passport – A complete photocopy of the necessary pages, encompassing the personal details page and visa stamps.
- Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID) – Evidence of lawful residency in Hong Kong.
2. Evidence of Seven Years of Ongoing Residence
- Evidence of seven years of uninterrupted and lawful residence in Hong Kong without any prolonged absences from the area. These consist of:
- Lease contracts or proof of property ownership (indicates extended residency)
- Utility expenses such as electricity, water, gas, and internet span multiple years.
- Bank statements documenting local transactions that verify physical presence in Hong Kong.
- Health record, insurance plan, or membership showing lasting connections.
3. Employment and Financial Documentation (For applicants who are employed)
- Employment contract terms and conditions related to the employer based in Hong Kong.
- Pay stubs and MPF (Mandatory Provident Fund) contributions as proof of financial self-sufficiency.
- Tax filings (IR56B form) from the Taxation Department.
- A letter of reference from the employer verifying his employment period and position
4. Business Ownership Papers (For self-employed individuals or entrepreneurial applicants)
- Certificate of business registration from the Companies Registry of Hong Kong.
- Corporate financial reports, income/expense summaries, and tax submissions.
- An agreement for office lease confirming that the business operates in Hong Kong.
- Bills, agreements, or transaction documents confirming ongoing business activities.
5. Documents for Family and Dependents (If applying with family members)
- Couples’ marriage license (for partners applying jointly).
- Certificates of birth (for children listed in the application).
- Dependent visa documentation (if relevant).
6. Statement of Purpose (For Applicants Outside China)
- Signed statement affirming the applicant’s intention for permanent residency in Hong Kong.
7. Supplementary Documentation (if needed)
- The Immigration Department would request all letters or documents during the assessment process.
- Demonstrate proof of community engagement through memberships in groups, volunteer activities, or professional organizations
How To Submit An Application For Hong Kong PR?
The subsequent steps in the application process that must be adhered to in order to obtain Hong Kong PR are –
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
- Filled out application form (Form ROP145).
- Legitimate travel document or passport.
- Evidence of uninterrupted seven-year residency in Hong Kong (e.g., lease agreements, utility statements).
- Recent images.
- Additional documents as outlined by the Immigration Department.
Step 2: Send the Application
- Applications may be sent either in person or through the mail to the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
- Ensure that all necessary documents are provided to prevent delays.
Step 3: Participate in an Interview (If Necessary):
- Certain candidates might be required to participate in an interview or submit more details.
Step 4: Pending Authorization:
- Processing durations differ: applicants will be informed of the result
Total Fees for Applying for Hong Kong Permanent Residency (PR)
The cost of applying for Permanent Residency in Hong Kong is relatively low. Consequently, the expenses related to the application involve:
| FEE TYPE | COST (HKD) |
| Application Processing Time | 215 |
| Hong Kong Identity Card (if required) | 460 |
| Replacement or Amendment of HKD | 370 |
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