Best Residence by Investment Lawyers in Tai Ping Shan
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List of the best lawyers in Tai Ping Shan, Hong Kong
1. About Residence by Investment Law in Tai Ping Shan, Hong Kong
Tai Ping Shan is a district in Hong Kong where many residents and businesses engage with the city’s immigration options as part of longer term residency plans. There is no separate local statute titled “Residence by Investment” that applies only to Tai Ping Shan. Hong Kong operates a centralized set of immigration rules that apply city-wide.
The closest historical model for “residence by investment” was the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES), which allowed eligible investors to live in Hong Kong if they met investment criteria. That scheme was suspended in 2010 and formally cancelled in 2015, and it is no longer available as a pathway to residency. For current options, applicants pursue other programs like Quality Migrant Admission Scheme or business- or work-based visas.
Capital Investment Entrant Scheme was suspended in 2010 and cancelled in 2015
Source: Immigration Department.
In practice, residence rights in Hong Kong are typically obtained through established routes such as the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme, entrepreneurship or employment visas under the General Employment Policy, or later through permanent residence after qualifying years of ordinary residence. These routes are governed by the Immigration Ordinance and related policies rather than district-specific rules. See official guidance for permanent residence and common entry routes: Permanent Residence, and Quality Migrant Admission Scheme.
Key laws establishing the framework include the Immigration Ordinance (Cap 115) and principal policy instruments administered by the Immigration Department. The Basic Law underpins Hong Kong’s constitutional framework for residency and immigration decisions. See official legal sources for precise text and amendments: Immigration Ordinance Cap 115 and Basic Law.
2. Why You May Need a Lawyer
- Your Tai Ping Shan business wants to hire non-local executives. A lawyer can assess your options under the General Employment Policy and help prepare the required sponsorship and documentation to maximize approval chances. This includes tailored business Justifications and evidence of economic contribution.
- You plan to pursue residence through the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme. An attorney can evaluate your eligibility, assemble the score-based evidence, and prepare a compelling submission that aligns with HK government criteria.
- Family members want to join you on a dependent visa while you work or study in Hong Kong. A lawyer can ensure accurate application forms, correct supporting documents, and timely responses to any requests from the Immigration Department.
- A previous investor program or entry path is no longer available, and you need alternatives. A legal counsel can map the latest options, such as QMAS or business-setup routes, and build a realistic timeline.
- Your application is refused or requires an internal review. An immigration solicitor can advise on grounds for appeal, re-submission strategies, and deadlines, with appropriate documentary changes.
- You are preparing for a PR application after seven years of residence. A lawyer helps you compile evidence, address common pitfalls, and present a robust case for permanent residence under HK rules.
3. Local Laws Overview
Immigration Ordinance (Cap 115) governs entry, stay, and conditions for residing in Hong Kong. It sets the framework for visa categories, right of abode, and permanent residency procedures. Practical guidance for applicants is published by the Immigration Department and supported by e-Legislation texts. See Immigration Ordinance Cap 115.
Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (historical context) previously allowed residency via capital investment but has been suspended since 2010 and cancelled in 2015. This scheme is no longer an option for investors seeking Hong Kong residence. Official references describe its status and historical background. See Capital Investment Entrant Scheme.
Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) is a points-based program designed to attract skilled migrants to settle in Hong Kong. It does not guarantee employment but offers a pathway to permanent residence for successful applicants. Official information is available from the Immigration Department. See QMAS.
Permanent Residency pathway typically requires seven years of continuous ordinary residence, after which applicants may apply for a permanent identity card. The Immigration Department provides guidance on eligibility and process. See Permanent Residence.
Recent developments to highlight include the suspension and cancellation of the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme and the ongoing emphasis on merit-based routes like QMAS and business/employment visas. These are reflected in official immigration policies and statutory text. See official notes on CIES and ongoing residence options above.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of Capital Investment Entrant Scheme in Hong Kong?
The Capital Investment Entrant Scheme is no longer in operation. It was suspended in 2010 and cancelled in 2015. Applicants should pursue other routes such as QMAS or work-based visas. See the Immigration Department's page on CIES for historical context.
How does Quality Migrant Admission Scheme work in Hong Kong?
QMAS uses a points-based system to select highly skilled applicants. It does not require a job offer, but successful applicants must meet program criteria and then seek employment or self-employment. Official guidance is available from the Immigration Department.
When did the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme get suspended and canceled?
The scheme was suspended in 2010 and formally cancelled in 2015. It is not a current pathway for residency. For current options, consult the Immigration Department’s QMAS and work visa guidance.
Where do I start if I want to immigrate to Hong Kong for business reasons?
Start with a clear plan outlining business viability and potential benefits to Hong Kong. A lawyer can assess eligibility for QMAS or entrepreneurship routes and help prepare the application materials. See official pages for QMAS and GEP guidance.
Why might a lawyer be essential for a Hong Kong entrepreneur visa application?
A lawyer can assess eligibility, craft a robust business plan, and ensure the application meets HK government expectations. They help align your plan with immigration criteria and gather compliant supporting documents.
Do I need to invest funds to qualify for any residence route in Hong Kong?
No single investment threshold applies to all routes today. Some paths focus on skills, business viability, or job offers. Historical investment-based routes are closed; current options rely on QMAS or credible business proposals.
How long does a Quality Migrant Admission Scheme application take?
Processing times vary by case and year, but typical timelines range from several months to over a year. Your lawyer can forecast a schedule based on current ImmD processing trends. The Immigration Department provides general timelines on request.
What documents are usually required for QMAS or entrepreneur visas?
Common documents include identity papers, proofs of education and work experience, financial statements, and a detailed business plan or evidence of skills. Your lawyer will compile and organize these to fit HK requirements.
Can dependants join the main applicant under HK immigration routes?
Yes, dependants such as spouses and unmarried children can apply to accompany the main applicant when pursuing certain visas. Each application requires complete documentation and clear connection to the primary applicant.
What is the difference between a work visa and permanent residency in Hong Kong?
A work visa authorizes temporary stay for employment under a specific employer. Permanent residency requires seven years of ordinary residence and grants long-term or indefinite rights to stay. See ImmD guidance for precise criteria.
Do I qualify for permanent residency after seven years in Hong Kong?
If you have seven years of continuous ordinary residence, you may apply for permanent residency. Approval depends on meeting all statutory requirements and the Immigration Department's assessment. Guidance is available from ImmD.
How long does it take to obtain permanent residency after meeting the residence requirements?
Processing times for PR applications vary by case but commonly range from several months to a year. A lawyer can help prepare a complete, well-documented submission to improve efficiency.
5. Additional Resources
- Immigration Department, The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region - Official information on visa categories, QMAS, and permanent residency processes. https://www.immd.gov.hk
- e-Legislation Hong Kong - Official source for Immigration Ordinance (Cap 115) text and amendments. https://www.elegislation.gov.hk
- Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region - Constitutional framework for residency and immigration. https://www.basiclaw.gov.hk
6. Next Steps
- Identify your target pathway (QMAS, entrepreneurship, or employment) based on your profile and goals in Tai Ping Shan. Timeframe: 1-2 weeks.
- Consult a Hong Kong immigration lawyer to assess eligibility and build a tailored plan. Request a written engagement estimate and scope of work. Timeframe: 1-2 weeks after initial inquiry.
- Gather required documents and draft your business plan or job- and skill-focused materials with your lawyer’s guidance. Timeline depends on your readiness, typically 2-6 weeks.
- Submit a complete application package to the Immigration Department and monitor requests for information. Prepare for possible follow-ups within 1-3 months after submission.
- If an adverse decision occurs, discuss options for reconsideration or appeal with your lawyer and plan next steps. Timeline varies by case and department response.
- Plan for post-approval steps, including preparing for permanent residency if eligible or mapping long-term residence objectives. Allocate 3-9 months for transition planning.
- Maintain ongoing compliance with HK immigration rules, especially if your Tai Ping Shan-based activities involve employment, investment, or family sponsorship. Regularly review changes in policy with your legal counsel.
Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Tai Ping Shan through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Residence by Investment, experience, and client feedback.
Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.
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Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
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