A person who is not of Chinese nationality may become a Hong Kong permanent resident, with the right of abode, after entering Hong Kong with a valid travel document, having ordinarily resided in Hong Kong for a continuous period of not less than seven years, and having taken Hong Kong as their place of permanent residence. The application is for verification of eligibility, and approval is not automatic.
Long absences, gaps in permission to stay or periods in excluded categories can break continuity.
At a glance
- Core requirement
- 7 years' continuous ordinary residence
- Also required
- Taking Hong Kong as your place of permanent residence
- Excluded periods
- Some categories do not count, for example foreign domestic helpers
- Outcome
- Right of abode; no conditions of stay
Key requirements
| Requirement | In practice |
|---|---|
| Valid entry | Entered with a valid travel document |
| Seven years | Continuous ordinary residence for at least seven years |
| Ordinarily resident | Lawfully living in Hong Kong for settled purposes; certain categories excluded |
| Permanent residence | Taking Hong Kong as your place of permanent residence, with supporting evidence |
Evidence that helps
- Immigration records showing continuous permission to stay.
- Tax returns and assessments for the period.
- Employment or business records, and MPF statements.
- Home ownership or long-term tenancy, family in Hong Kong, children's schooling.
- Records of travel showing Hong Kong as your base.
Common pitfalls
- Long absences from Hong Kong that suggest your life is based elsewhere.
- A gap between the expiry of a visa and approval of an extension.
- Periods spent in a category that does not count towards ordinary residence.
- Insufficient evidence of taking Hong Kong as your permanent home.
Questions we are often asked
Does time on a student visa count?
Time spent studying in Hong Kong may count towards ordinary residence in some circumstances, but certain categories are excluded. Take advice on your specific history.
Will long trips abroad break my seven years?
Temporary absences do not necessarily break ordinary residence, but long or frequent absences can suggest your life is based elsewhere. Keep evidence of your ties to Hong Kong.
What happens to my visa conditions after permanent residence?
As a permanent resident with the right of abode, you can live and work in Hong Kong without conditions of stay.
Self-check: where do you stand?
| Question | What to do |
|---|---|
| Can you show seven years of continuous lawful residence? | Collect immigration records |
| Have you kept tax and employment records for the period? | If not, gather them now |
| Have you had long absences from Hong Kong? | If so, take advice before applying |
| Can you show that Hong Kong is your permanent home? | Assemble evidence of your life here |
- Reviewing your residence history before you apply.
- Preparing the application and supporting evidence.
- Advising on visa extensions throughout the seven years.
In summary
- Seven years' continuous ordinary residence is required.
- Show that Hong Kong is your permanent home.
- Keep records throughout.
Official references
- Basic Law, Article 24, and Immigration Ordinance (Cap. 115), Schedule 1
- Immigration Department: right of abode and verification of eligibility for permanent identity card, www.immd.gov.hk