Best Permanent Residency Lawyers in Central

About Permanent Residency Law in Central, Hong Kong

Permanent Residency is the legal right to live and work indefinitely in Central, Hong Kong. Relative to local laws, permanent residents must have resided in Hong Kong for a continuous period of not less than seven years before they qualify for permanent residency. Such residents have the right to vote, aren't subject to immigration controls, and may access certain social benefits. Unlike temporary residents, they also have the right to stand for public office.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal assistance can be invaluable when dealing with complex residency laws. Common instances when you might need a lawyer include: when applying for permanent residency status initially, appealing against a decision to refuse permanent residency, navigating the process of bringing a spouse or other family members to reside in Hong Kong, or if you've been accused of violating immigration or residency laws.

Local Laws Overview

The key local law relating to Permanent Residency in Hong Kong is the Immigration Ordinance, in particular, Sections 2, 2A, and 2AA, which detail the principles of permanent residency. According to these laws, a person should have lived in Hong Kong for at least seven continuous years on a valid visa and have the intention to make Hong Kong their permanent residence. An applicant is required to provide the necessary documents such as proof of continuous residence in Hong Kong, tax payment records, and employment records.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for permanent residency in Central, Hong Kong?

Permanent Residency is open to locals and foreign nationals who have resided in Hong Kong for a minimum continuous period of seven years.

Can permanent residency be revoked?

Generally, permanent residency isn't revokable unless one is proven to have obtained it by fraudulent means or are away from Hong Kong for extended periods without maintaining significant connections domestically.

What benefits does a permanent resident of Central, Hong Kong have?

Permanent residents in Hong Kong have the right to vote in local elections and aren't subject to immigration controls. They may stand for public office, are eligible for certain social benefits and are protected by the local labor laws.

Can my application for permanent residency be refused?

Yes, the government could refuse your application for a myriad of reasons. This can include if you do not meet the 7 year residency criterion, have a criminal record, or are found to have provided fraudulent information in your application.

Can I hold another citizenship and still become a Hong Kong Permanent Resident?

Hong Kong law permits its permanent residents to carry dual citizenship. Therefore, you're eligible to apply for Hong Kong Permanent Residency regardless of your other citizenships.

Additional Resources

You might find these resources helpful: The official website of the Hong Kong Immigration Department has extensive information regarding immigration laws and processes. Your local library or community center can be a valuable source of information with resources to understanding permanent residency laws. Understand that while these resources can provide general guidance, for specific matters relating to your case, legal advice is indispensable.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance with Permanent Residency, it's advisable to first gather as much information about your situation as possible. This can include evidence of your stay in Hong Kong, work records, tax payment history, etc. Then, you should consult with a lawyer specializing in immigration and Residency Law. They will better understand your situation, be able to give you more succinct advice and guide you through the next steps.