Hong Kong happens to be a warm and welcoming country that encourages foreign investment as well as overseas talents. It has devised an immigration policy that accommodates business entrepreneurs, investors and working professionals alike. Now, it is time to explore the various visa schemes available in the country to aid those who wish to find jobs and do business in the country.
The Employment Visa
This is ideally for people who want to get into any company in Hong Kong and are staying in the country. Interestingly, there are no restrictions placed on the number of Employment Visas to be issued by companies. However, an Employment Visa can only be sought by a person after he or she has got a job with a company in Hong Kong.
Eligibility
These below-mentioned candidates can apply under the Employment Visa scheme:
Foreigners graduating from an education institution in Hong Kong
Foreigners graduating overseas and having skillset, knowledge or experience that are not currently available in Hong Kong
Validity: The visa normally lasts for a year and can be renewed after its expiry, provided the applicant fulfils the eligibility criteria.
Quota System: Every application is assessed on merit, so there is a quota system involved.
Permanent Residence Eligibility: People with Employment visas can apply for permanent residence status after completing their stay in Hong Kong for a continuous period of at least seven years.
Investment Visa Scheme
This is typically useful for foreign entrepreneurs who want to come to Hong Kong to begin their business operations. As per the Investment Visa, foreign entrepreneurs are permitted to reside in Hong Kong as an employee of their company. And there are no minimum amount criteria prescribed by the authorities while seeking the Investment Visa.
Eligibility
The entrepreneurs based overseas who wish to be a part of or who want to set up a business in Hong Kong.
The individuals must have a good educational background or technical qualifications, relevant professional abilities, achievements and experience.
The applicant needs to demonstrate that his business will make a huge contribution to the economy of Hong Kong.
Validity: The Investment Visa is given for one year and can be renewable post expiry (only if the applicant fulfils the eligibility criteria).
Quota System: Each application is assessed on the basis of merit, so there is no quota system in place.
Permanent Residence Eligibility: Investment Visa holders can apply for permanent residence status only after staying in Hong Kong for a successive period of seven years at the least.
Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS)
The QMAS happens to be yet another entry scheme meant for foreigners who want to come to Hong Kong either to look for employment or business opportunities. Successful individuals have to take the necessary measures to settle in Hong Kong by either getting employed in any company in the country or setting up a business while the visa validity is on.
Eligibility
Foreigners who meet conditions such as a strong economic status with the ability to support themselves and their dependents
Must be fluent in Chinese or English
No criminal antecedents, past or present
Good educational qualifications,
Must be in the age group of 18-51 years and have cleared a point-based test.
Validity: The QMAS visas are normally valid for a one-year period (subject to the discretion of authorities) and can be renewed for one more year.
Quota System: Presently a quota of 1,000 entrants has been fixed.
Permanent Residence Eligibility: Individuals who have come to the country under the QMAS can apply for permanent residence status only after staying in Hong Kong for a continuous period of at least seven years.
