New Fee Structure For Visa Applications Under Hong Kong’s Specified Schemes

[Editor2]

OverviewThe Hong Kong Immigration Department has introduced a new two-tiered fee structure for visa applications submitted under the Specified Schemes program. Effective immediately, applicants must pay both an application fee and a visa issuance fee, with costs varying based on the duration of the approved visa. These changes require applicants and employers to adjust their financial planning and application strategies accordingly.

Breakdown of the New Fee Structure​

Application Fee (Non-Refundable)​

• HKD 600 (applicable to all applicants under the Specified Schemes)

Visa Issuance Fee​

• For a visa valid for more than 180 days: HKD 1,300
• For a visa valid for 180 days or less: HKD 600

Both fees must be paid at the time of application submission.

Schemes Covered Under the New Fee Structure​

The updated fee structure applies to applicants under the following visa schemes:

• Top Talent Pass Scheme
• General Employment Policy
• Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals
• Quality Migrant Admission Scheme
• Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates
• Admission Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Residents
• New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme
• Capital Investment Entrant Scheme
• Technology Talent Admission Scheme
• Vocational Professionals Admission Scheme

Visa Duration and Fee Calculation​

The visa issuance fee depends on the approved duration of the visa. The period is calculated based on the following:

1. For visas with a fixed duration, the time period stated on the visa.
2. For visas without a fixed duration, the time between the visa issuance fee payment date and the last valid date of stay.
3. For visa extensions, the period between the previous visa’s expiration and the new expiry date.

Impact of the Fee Adjustment​

Applicants need to be financially prepared for the increased costs when applying for visas under the Specified Schemes. Employers who frequently sponsor foreign talent should reassess their budgets and refine their application strategies to accommodate these changes.

Background and Rationale​

The fee adjustment is part of the Hong Kong Immigration Department’s efforts to streamline the visa processing system and ensure the sustainable administration of work and investment-based visa programs. The two-tiered fee structure aims to enhance transparency and efficiency in processing applications.

Pros and Cons Summary​

Pros:​

• Improved transparency in visa application fees.
• More structured approach to visa processing.
• Potentially faster processing times due to a refined system.
• Employers can better anticipate costs associated with hiring foreign talent.

Cons:​

• Higher financial burden for applicants and sponsoring employers.
• Increased costs for short-term visa holders.
• Some applicants may find the new fee structure restrictive or prohibitive.

This new fee framework highlights the importance of strategic financial planning for both individuals and businesses seeking entry into Hong Kong under the Specified Schemes.