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If an employee is still working for the same employer who sponsored their visa, an extension of stay is quite a straightforward process. Usually a two-year visa will be granted with the first extension. The normal extension pattern is 2-2-3.

If, on the other hand, the sponsoring company is newly established in Hong Kong, applying for an extension of stay is more complicated, with extra documentation required by Immigration. The application will be subject to a business review, with business development and turnover as key issues. A one-year visa is granted on approval of application.

If an applicant has an investment-based employment visa and their company is only recently established in Hong Kong, the extension of stay will be subject to a business review. In such cases, business development and economic contribution to Hong Kong, i.e. local hiring, are key factors in securing an extension of stay. A one-year visa is granted on approval of application.

For a dependant visa extension, if the applicant’s family status remains unchanged, applying for an extension of stay is relatively straightforward. Upon approval, if the sponsor is a permanent resident, a two-year visa will be granted. Otherwise the new visa will expire on the same date as the sponsors.

If the applicant holds a visitor visa, proof of their reason for extension and proof of their financial status will be required by the Immigration Department.