Hong Kong•AsiaID 999A — Investment as Entrepreneurs Visa
At a Glance
2–4 weeks
Varies by processing route
HKD $1,200–$1,900
Varies by filing options
3 years
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
Yes
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Renewable 36-month entry visa for entrepreneurs establishing or joining a business in Hong Kong, with work authorization restricted to approved business activities.
The Investment as Entrepreneurs Visa enables overseas entrepreneurs to establish or join a business in Hong Kong. You must hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent professional qualification, demonstrate no security concerns, and show substantial economic contribution. While there is no minimum investment amount, you must prove sufficient financial resources for startup and operational costs.
Initial 36-month visa, renewable in 3–2 year cycles. Processing: 4 weeks for entry, 2–3 weeks for extensions. Main costs: HKD 600 (application) and HKD 1,300 (visa issuance over 180 days). Dependents under 18 may accompany you with work rights. Work is limited to the approved business; changes need Director approval. Seven years residence may qualify you for permanent residency.
This visa is ideal for founders and entrepreneurs with a viable business plan in fintech, biotechnology, and creative industries seeking autonomy to establish their venture.
Cost Breakdown
Processing Time
| Track 1 | 4 weeks |
| Track 2 | 2–3 weeks |
Stay & Extensions
| Initial grant | 3 years |
Conversion Paths
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
Hong KongRight of Abode / Permanent Residence (居留權/永久性居民)
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
No security objection and no known record of serious crime.
Good education background (normally a first degree) or good technical qualifications/proven professional abilities.
Must make a substantial contribution to the economy of Hong Kong.
Must provide a detailed business plan (forecast turnover, profitability, job creation, etc.).
Must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support the business.
KEY CRITERIA
Education
bachelor or higher
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Valid passport
Educational background
Business experience
Character reference
Business plan (sponsor)
Company registration (sponsor)
Financial projections (sponsor)
Investment documentation (sponsor)
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Renewable pathway with 3-2 year extension pattern — long-term business continuity if business viability maintained
- Initial 36-month stay enables business establishment and market validation
- Fast processing: normally 4 weeks for entry visa approval
- Clear work authorization for approved business activities without job offer requirement
- Spouse has unrestricted work rights; dependents under 18 qualifying for visas
- Path to permanent residency after 7 years of ordinary residence
- No statutory minimum investment threshold — viable startups qualify despite capital constraints
Worth Knowing
- Work authorization tied to specific approved business only; Director approval required to expand activities
- Renewal contingent on business remaining operational and meeting original economic contribution criteria
- Application fee HKD 600; requires demonstrated financial resources to cover startup and operational costs
- Requires bachelor's degree or equivalent professional qualifications to qualify
- Business must remain viable and operational; cessation or non-compliance ends visa qualification
Application Process
Establish or secure business opportunity
Plan to establish new business or join existing one in Hong Kong
Prepare business plan
Detailed plan showing contribution to Hong Kong economy
Establish company if new
Register company in Hong Kong SAR
Complete visa application
Submit under General Employment Policy - Investment route
Gather documents
Business plan, company registration, financial projections
Submit application
Online with HKD 600 fee
Processing
Normally 4 weeks
Application Forms
Go to application portal| Application for Entry for Investment as Entrepreneurs (applicant) | Fill online |
| Application for Entry for Investment as Entrepreneurs (sponsor) | Fill online |
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