Hong Kong Visa Services

Choosing the correct visa is the first and most important step in your journey to Hong Kong. The type of visa you need depends on the purpose of your stay, whether it’s for tourism, work, business, family reunification, or study. At Themis Partner, we offer expert visa services in Hong Kong to help you determine the right visa pathway and avoid costly errors.

Each visa category has specific eligibility criteria, documentation, and approval conditions. Submitting an application under the wrong category can result in processing delays or outright rejection.

Hong Kong offers visa-free entry to nationals from over 160 jurisdictions, making it one of the most accessible international destinations in Asia for short-term travel. Understanding Hong Kong visa exemption rules is essential if you’re planning a visit for tourism or business.

Citizens of the following countries can enter Hong Kong without a visa for tourism, business meetings, or transit, depending on their nationality:

To confirm your eligibility, consult the official Hong Kong Immigration Department visa-free list, which provides the most up-to-date information based on nationality.

Although visa-free entry to Hong Kong is convenient, it comes with strict limitations:

To work legally in Hong Kong, foreign nationals must apply for a work visa under the General Employment Policy (GEP). This visa scheme is intended for professionals with skills or experience not readily available in the local job market. The role offered must meet several key conditions to qualify:

The Hong Kong employment visa application process involves several essential steps:

Work visas in Hong Kong are usually issued for an initial duration of two years and can be renewed if the employment relationship continues. However, changing employers requires submitting a new visa application tied to the new sponsor. For complete guidance on the GEP and up-to-date policy changes, you can refer directly to the official Immigration Department website.

Understanding the Hong Kong visa processing time is essential for planning your travel, relocation, or employment start date. While processing durations may vary depending on the type of visa and the applicant’s profile, having a general timeline helps manage expectations and avoid delays. Typical processing times for Hong Kong visas are as follows:

It’s important to submit a complete and well-prepared application, as missing documents or unclear information can lead to significant delays. At Themis Partner, we specialize in building strong applications that meet all Hong Kong Immigration Department requirements. Several factors can influence how quickly your visa is processed:

To avoid unexpected delays, applicants are encouraged to work with a legal advisor and submit all documentation in the correct format. Our team ensures full compliance and follows up with immigration authorities when needed. For real-time updates or to check your Hong Kong visa application status, you can use the official Hong Kong Immigration portal, which provides tracking options for submitted applications.Once your visa is approved, operating legally in Hong Kong means staying on top of your financial and tax obligations. Download our Accounting and Tax compliance guide to manage your reporting duties with confidence from day one.

Yes, Hong Kong immigration law allows eligible foreign residents to bring their immediate family members through the dependent visa Hong Kong scheme. If you hold a valid employment visa, investment visa, student visa, or have permanent resident status, you are legally permitted to sponsor your spouse and unmarried children under the age of 18.

The Hong Kong dependent visa is designed to facilitate family reunification and offers several key benefits. Spouses of employment visa holders are allowed to work in Hong Kong without the need for an additional work permit. Children holding dependent visas can attend local or international schools, making it easier for families to settle in the city. The validity of the dependent visa is directly tied to the sponsor’s visa. If your visa is renewed or extended, your dependents’ visas can also be renewed accordingly.

To apply for a family visa in Hong Kong, you must provide proof of the relationship (such as marriage or birth certificates), evidence of sufficient financial means to support your dependents, and details of your residence in Hong Kong. The application is submitted to the Hong Kong Immigration Department along with your own visa or residence documentation.

Obtaining permanent residency in Hong Kong also known as the Right of Abode grants foreign nationals the ability to live and work in the city without further visa renewals. It is a highly sought-after immigration status that comes with long-term stability and access to public services. To qualify for Hong Kong permanent residency, you must meet the following key requirements:

Applicants must also submit substantial documentation to support their claim of continuous ordinary residence:

Once your application is approved, you will be issued a Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card (HKPIC), which grants you full rights of abode. This includes the ability to live and work freely, access public education and healthcare, and enter and exit Hong Kong without a visa. For a detailed explanation of eligibility and residence rules, refer to the official Right of Abode FAQ section by the Immigration Department.If you’re sponsoring long-term employees or preparing compliance reports, your company must meet local corporate governance standards. Download our Corporate Secretary checklist to stay compliant with Hong Kong’s residency and visa regulations.

Visa applications in Hong Kong are subject to strict review by the Immigration Department, and even small oversights can result in rejection. Among the most common reasons for visa refusal are incomplete or inconsistent documentation, which can raise doubts about the credibility of the applicant. A lack of relevant qualifications, particularly in employment or student visa applications, is also a frequent issue. Financial insufficiency when the applicant cannot demonstrate the means to support themselves during their stay is another key factor leading to denial. Additionally, if the purpose of the visit is vague, unsupported by documentation, or seems suspicious, the Immigration Department may consider the application non-compliant. Past immigration violations or a criminal record will almost certainly complicate the approval process.

To avoid these risks, it is crucial to submit a fully completed and well-organized application. Every document must be accurate, consistent, and, when required, properly certified or translated. Clearly articulating the purpose of your stay in Hong Kong and providing financial documents that reflect sufficient resources will strengthen your case significantly. Applicants with complex situations or prior issues are strongly advised to consult a legal expert who can help present their case transparently and in alignment with immigration requirements.

Navigating the visa application process in Hong Kong can be challenging, with multiple visa categories and strict immigration requirements depending on your nationality and the purpose of your stay. Whether you’re applying for a work visa, a dependent visa, or seeking long-term residency, submitting a complete and compliant application is essential to avoid delays, refusals, or legal complications.

At Themis Partner, our immigration lawyers provide visa solutions tailored to your personal or professional situation and fully aligned with Hong Kong immigration law. We offer expert support and legal documentation prepared with precision to ensure that your visa application is processed smoothly and efficiently. Start your Hong Kong visa application today with Themis Partner and move forward with legal certainty and confidence.