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Hong Kong digital nomad visa: How to get it?
Discover the best alternatives to the Hong Kong digital nomad visa so you can travel, enjoy, and work remotely in this vibrant destination.
Are you a digital nomad and considering Hong Kong as a destination in the coming months? You’re probably wondering if there’s a specific visa that suits your lifestyle as an explorer and remote worker. Unfortunately, there isn’t, but don’t worry, there are alternative ways to live and work in Hong Kong without a digital nomad visa.
Surprised? Well, I’m here to tell you that yes, you could live in Hong Kong and work remotely, but it’s not an easy challenge. That’s why today, Holafly explains in detail the possible options you can apply for and guides you step by step through the requirements, procedures, and applications to live and work in this autonomous region of China and enjoy it for a considerable amount of time.
Is there a digital nomad visa for Hong Kong?
As of today, Hong Kong does not have a specific visa for digital nomads. The government declared in October 2024 that it has no recent plans to introduce such a visa in its talent admission system, despite this autonomous destination of the People’s Republic of China being a magnet for tourists and technology enthusiasts.
The Secretary for Labour and Welfare of Hong Kong, Chris Sun, stated that digital nomads are “mobile” like tourists and for the government, they do not qualify as a different category. He added that the current short stay alternatives suit their characteristics and affirmed that Hong Kong’s policies focus on attracting international talent aiming to make the region their permanent place of residence.
Which countries do not require a visa to enter Hong Kong?
Citizens of many countries can enter Hong Kong without a visa for stays ranging from seven to 180 days, depending on the nationality of the visitor. Check below if your country qualifies for this exemption and for how long:
- 90 days: Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, United States, Mexico, Peru, European Union.
- 30 days: Ecuador, Philippines, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand.
- 14 days: Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka.
The visa exemption allows short stays for tourism or business and does not authorise paid employment. Digital nomads planning to work from Hong Kong should consider applying for a suitable visa that allows work activities, such as the employment visa or the investment visa for entrepreneurs.
What alternatives are there to the digital nomad visa in Hong Kong?
Employment Visa
This visa is designed for individuals who have received a job offer from a company in Hong Kong. For digital nomads, this option is viable if a formal employment relationship is established with a local company.
| Duration | The visa is granted for an initial period of one to two years, with the possibility of renewal. |
| Cost | The application fee is approximately 230 Hong Kong dollars (around $30 (€28)). |
| Requirements | -Job offer from a company registered in Hong Kong.-Demonstration that the applicant has skills and experience not available in the local labour market.-Relevant academic qualifications and work experience.-Proof that the employer has attempted to hire locally without success. |
Documentation
- Completed application form.
- Copy of valid passport.
- Recent passport-sized photographs.
- Job offer letter.
- Submit all academic and professional certificates.
- Proof of work experience.
Application process
- Obtain a job offer from a company in Hong Kong.
- Complete and submit the application form along with the required documentation to the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
- Wait for approval, which typically takes around 4 to 6 weeks.
- Once approved, collect the visa and travel to Hong Kong.
Investment Visa for Entrepreneurs
This visa is for individuals who wish to establish or join a business in Hong Kong. It is suitable for digital nomads with an entrepreneurial spirit who want to start a local business.
| Duration | It is initially granted for 1 year, with the possibility of renewal. |
| Cost | 230 Hong Kong dollars (approximately $30 (€28)). |
| Requirements | -Detailed business plan for the next two years, demonstrating viability and economic benefits for Hong Kong.-Proof of sufficient financial resources to establish and operate the business.-Relevant experience and background in the business sector.-Expected contribution to local employment and the economy. |
Documentation
- Completed application form.
- Copy of valid passport.
- Recent passport-sized photographs.
- Detailed business plan.
- Proof of financial resources (bank statements, investments).
- Submit all academic and professional certificates.
- Business experience documentation.
Application Process
- Prepare a solid business plan and gather the required documentation.
- Complete and submit the application form to the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
- The Department will assess the viability of the business and its contribution to the local economy.
- Processing time usually takes 4 to 6 weeks.
- Once approved, collect the visa and establish the business in Hong Kong.
Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS)
This is a points-based programme that allows highly skilled professionals to settle in Hong Kong without the need for a prior job offer. It is a viable option for digital nomads with exceptional skills.
| Duration | It is granted for a period of 1 year, with the possibility of renewal. |
| Cost | 230 Hong Kong dollars (around $30 (€28)). |
| Requirements | -Be over 18 years old.-Achieve a minimum score in the points system, which evaluates factors such as age, academic qualifications, work experience, language skills, and adaptability.-Prove the ability to support oneself financially in Hong Kong without resorting to public assistance.-No criminal record. |
Points System
The QMAS uses a points system to evaluate applicants. There are two methods for earning points:
- General points system: Points are awarded based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and other aspects related to the applicant’s qualifications.
- Exceptional points system: This system assigns higher points for individuals with outstanding skills in specific fields such as technology, scientific research, among others.
To succeed in the application, an applicant must reach a minimum score in one of the two points systems. Applicants who do not achieve this score may be rejected.
Documentation
- Completed application form.
- Copy of valid passport.
- Recent passport-sized photographs.
- Submit all academic and professional certificates.
- Proof of work experience.
- Proof of sufficient financial resources.
- Criminal record certificate.
Application process
- Applicants must submit their application along with the necessary documents to the Hong Kong Immigration Department. The application is done online via the official Hong Kong government website, where you can also access forms and additional details.
- Application evaluation: Based on the points system and other relevant factors. This process can take several months.
- Interview (if necessary): In some cases, the applicant may be invited for an interview to discuss their application further. This is uncommon, but it’s an option the Immigration Department may require.
- Outcome and residence authorisation: If the application is approved, residence permits are granted to work and live in Hong Kong.
Electronic Short Stay Visa
Features of the e-Visa in Hong Kong
- Duration: Valid for 90 days for tourism and transit purposes.
- Digital format: Once the application is approved and payment is processed, a notification in PDF format is issued containing an encrypted QR code for authenticity verification.
- Elimination of physical tags: Since December 28, 2021, Hong Kong no longer issues physical adhesive visa labels, fully adopting the digital format.
- Cost: $30 (€28).
Required documentation
- Application form: Complete the corresponding online form for the type of visa.
- Valid passport: Provide a scanned copy of the passport data page.
- Recent photograph: Upload a digital photograph that meets the specified requirements.
- Additional documents: Depending on the type of visa, you may need to provide proof of funds, invitation letters, travel itineraries, and more.
Application process
- Access the system: Go to the official Hong Kong Immigration Department website or use the relevant mobile app.
- Complete the application: Fill in the online form with the required information and upload the necessary documents.
- Pay fees: Make the payment for the corresponding fees through available electronic payment methods.
- Receive the e-Visa: Once the application is approved and payment confirmed, download the e-Visa in PDF format.
- Verification: The e-Visa contains an encrypted QR code that can be verified using the Immigration Department’s mobile app.
What’s the best alternative to the digital nomad visa in Hong Kong?
For digital nomads looking to visit Hong Kong for a short period, the Electronic Visitor/Transit Visa is the most viable option. This visa allows stays of up to 90 days and is suitable for activities like tourism, business, or short studies. Although it’s not specifically designed for remote work, many digital nomads use this visa to work remotely during their stay, and the application process is simpler compared to longer-stay visas like the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS), which has stricter eligibility criteria.
The latter also offers flexibility for digital nomads who want to live in Hong Kong and work for employers outside the region. However, it’s crucial to comply with all local regulations and ensure that the work activities performed are allowed under the visa conditions.
Where can I get tailored advice?
Managing a visa for Hong Kong with those closed criteria and little specifics for digital nomads might discourage you from travelling, so it’s important to get well-informed before starting the application process. That said, we’ll recommend companies and institutions specialised in these procedures to guide and support you throughout the process.
1. Fragomen Worldwide
This is a global firm specialised in immigration services that offers personalised advice for individuals and companies in Hong Kong.
- Location: Hong Kong, China.
- Services: Immigration process advice, including visa acquisition, compliance with immigration regulations, and global mobility planning.
- Website: www.fragomen.com
- Communication channels: Email and phone.
- Languages: Services in English and Chinese.
2. Newland Chase
- Location: Hong Kong, China.
- Services: Immigration process advice, including visa acquisition, compliance with immigration regulations, and global mobility planning.
- Website: newlandchase.com
- Channels of communication: E-mail and telephone
- Languages: Services in English and Chinese.
3. Hong Kong Immigration Department
It’s the main authority responsible for managing immigration matters in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
- Location: Immigration Headquarters, 61 Po Yap Road, Tseung Kwan O, New Territories, Hong Kong.
- Communication Channels: Phone and email.(enquiry@immd.gov.hk)
- Website: www.immd.gov.hk/
4. Diplomatic representation of Hong Kong in your country of residence
These offices can provide detailed and up-to-date information about visa requirements and application processes.
Find out which Hong Kong office is closest to you. You can find a list of Hong Kong representations on the official website of the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
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Frequently asked questions about the digital nomad visa in Singapore
No, the tourist or short-stay visa doesn’t allow remote work for a company outside Hong Kong. Although some digital nomads might use this visa for unpaid remote work, make sure your activities don’t breach local laws.
With a short-stay visa or e-Visa, you can stay in Hong Kong for up to 90 days. This visa is valid for tourism or business purposes but doesn’t authorise paid work in Hong Kong.
Yes, you can apply for an entrepreneur investment visa if you submit a viable business plan showing how your venture will contribute to the local economy. You must have sufficient financial resources to establish and operate your business in Hong Kong.
The QMAS allows skilled professionals to live and work in Hong Kong without needing a prior job offer. In contrast, a work visa requires a confirmed job offer from a Hong Kong-based company.
Several companies specialise in immigration services and can offer tailored guidance for your Hong Kong visa application process, such as Fragomen Worldwide, Newland Chase, and the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
No, work visas in Hong Kong are designed for employees of local companies.
