Hongkong Permanent Residency
Overview of Hong Kong Permanent Residents
Before delving into specifics, it’s essential to establish a clear understanding of permanent residents in Hong Kong.
A Permanent Resident is an individual who has been granted the right to reside and work in Hong Kong indefinitely, without the need for a visa or work permit.
This status is commonly referred to as “permanent residency” or “Right of Abode” and comes with various advantages, including:
Unrestricted entry and stay: Those holding this status can freely enter and reside in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) without any time limitations.
Immunity from deportation: Permanent residents can rest assured that they cannot be deported from Hong Kong.
Protection against forced removal: Individuals with permanent residency are shielded from involuntary removal from the region.
Eligibility for Hong Kong Permanent Residents
Becoming a permanent resident in Hong Kong hinges on various factors unique to each person, including their immigration track record, familial connections, and visa standing.
To qualify for permanent residency in Hong Kong, you must satisfy one of the following criteria:
1. Meet the requirements under specific PR categories, which we’ll delve into shortly.
2. Fulfill the transitional provisions specified in Paragraph 6 of Schedule 1 to the Immigration Ordinance.
Categories of eligibility
There are several categories for qualifying for permanent residency in Hong Kong:
- 1. Chinese citizens born in Hong Kong
- 2. Chinese citizens born outside Hong Kong but residing legally in the city for at least 7 years
- 3. Chinese citizens born outside Hong Kong to a parent (either father or mother) who was a Hong Kong permanent resident at the time of their birth.
- 4. Non-Chinese citizens who have legally resided in Hong Kong for a minimum of 7 years and declared it as their permanent place of residence.
- 5. Non-Chinese citizens under 21 born in Hong Kong to at least one parent holding permanent residency. Once they turn 21, they must establish their own permanent resident status under one of the mentioned categories; otherwise, their Hong Kong permanent residency will be forfeited.
Additionally, if you had the right of abode in Hong Kong before the transfer of sovereignty to China on July 1, 1997, you might be able to regain your right to permanent resident status through transitional arrangements.
Applying for Permanent Residency in Hong Kong: A Step-by-Step Guide
To simplify the application process, we’ve broken it down into clear steps, ensuring that you are well-prepared when submitting your application.
Step 1: Choose the Right Application Form Start by selecting the application form that aligns with your eligibility criteria:
- 1. Chinese applicants aged 18 and above: Form ROP 169
- 2. Chinese applicants below 18: Form ROP 170
- 3. Non-Chinese applicants: Form ROP 145
Step 2: Collect Supporting Documents Gather the necessary documents to validate your eligibility. The specific requirements depend on your circumstances:
- 1. Born in Hong Kong: Hong Kong birth certificate
- 2. Chinese national residing in Hong Kong for 7+ years:
- Proof of 7-year residency
- Valid travel document
And so on, depending on your unique situation.
Ensure you meet the following general requirements:
- 1. For minors (under 18): Include the ID of the parent or guardian and proof of their relationship.
- 2. If documents are in a foreign language, provide a certified translation from a recognized authority.
Step 3: Submit Your Application After collecting all required documents, choose one of the following submission options:
- 1. Send hard copies via postal mail
- 2. Drop off your application in person
- 3. Scan and upload through the online portal
Upon confirming eligibility for a permanent identity card, the following steps apply:
- 1. If 11 years or older: Apply for the identity card at the Registration Office
- 2. If under 11 with valid foreign documents: Obtain an endorsement confirming eligibility.
CoE Application Guide for Chinese Nationals Born Outside Hong Kong
Obtaining a Certificate of Entitlement (CoE) is a crucial step for Chinese nationals born abroad with direct ties to Hong Kong through their parentage. This document establishes their right to land and reside in Hong Kong. Below is a comprehensive guide outlining eligibility criteria, necessary documentation, and the application process.
Verify Eligibility:
To apply for a CoE, an individual must meet the following criteria:
- 1. The applicant must be of Chinese nationality.
- 2. The individual should have been born outside Hong Kong.
- 3. At the time of the applicant’s birth, one of the parents must meet either of the following conditions:
- * A Chinese citizen born in Hong Kong, pre or post the establishment of the HKSAR.
- * A Chinese citizen who resided in Hong Kong for at least seven uninterrupted years, irrespective of whether it occurred before or after the HKSAR’s establishment.
Prepare Required Documents:
Collect the following documents for the application:
- 1. Applicant’s birth certificate
- 2. Immigration status document
- 3. Valid travel documents of the applicant
- 4. Hong Kong permanent identity card of the applicant’s parents
- 5. Marriage certificate of the applicant’s parents (if applicable)
Submitting the application to relevant authorities:
1. For Mainland China Residents:
Submit your application at the Exit-Entry Administration based on your household registration.
2. For Overseas Applicants:
Attach a recent photograph of the applicant with the following specifications:
- 1. Full-faced, without hats or head coverings
- 2. Dimensions between 50mm x 40mm and 55mm x 45mm Submit applications in one of two ways:
- 3. Through the Chinese diplomatic mission in your respective country.
- 4. By post, directly to the Immigration Department in Hong Kong.
For Macau Applicants:
Follow the same procedure as overseas applicants and submit your application via post directly to the Immigration Department in Hong Kong.
Conclusion:-
Frequently Asked Questions
Embarking on the journey towards Permanent Residency demands patience. On average, the process takes around 6 to 12 months, varying based on individual circumstances.
To qualify for Hongkong Permanent Residency, a minimum investment of HKD 10 million is required, showcasing your commitment to contributing to the local economy.
Yes, family members can be included in the application. Spouses and dependent children under the age of 18 are eligible to join you on this exciting journey.
While there is no strict age limit, applicants under 18 or over 60 may face additional scrutiny. However, each case is assessed individually.
Proficiency in English or Chinese is crucial. Language proficiency tests may be required to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively.
Permanent Residency can be revoked if the resident leaves Hong Kong for an extended period without valid reasons or engages in illegal activities.
