Update April 30, 2026: Immigration authorities have reiterated that, except in exceptional cases approved by the Director of Immigration, individuals subject to a stay limit must depart before their authorized period expires. This obligation applies even where an extension application has been filed and is still under review. Failure to comply with stay conditions, including overstaying, is treated as a serious criminal violation and may lead to prosecution and removal. Applicants are encouraged to submit extension requests well in advance, ideally within three months before expiry and no later than six weeks prior. Processing generally takes two to three weeks once all required documents and fees are received, though timelines may vary based on case-specific factors and application volumes. As approvals are not guaranteed, individuals must plan to exit before their authorized stay ends, unless they have obtained special permission to stay.
February 26, 2026: Effective March 1, 2026, Hong Kong SAR authorities will allow individuals and their dependents admitted under the below talent and employment schemes to submit applications for extension of stay up to three months before the expiry of their current limit of stay:
- General Employment Policy;
- Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals;
- Science and Technology Talent Admission Scheme;
- Arrangement for Non-Local Graduates to Stay/Return to Hong Kong for Employment;
- Quality Migrant Admission Scheme; and
- Admission Scheme for Second Generation of Hong Kong Permanent Residents of Chinese Nationality.
The rule does not apply to standalone dependent visa renewals (sponsored by permanent residents) or training visa extension of stay applications. This arrangement has applied to the Top Talent Pass Scheme since November 1, 2024. This change provides eligible applicants with additional time to prepare and file extension applications, supporting continuity of status and further facilitating their ongoing stay and professional development in Hong Kong SAR.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen.
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