In this course · 2 of 6
Course 8
Foreign owners and banking
6 lessons · 7 min
- 1Can a foreigner set up a company in Hong Kong, and what is required?
- 2Does a Hong Kong Company Give You a Visa to Live and Work?
- 3TCSP Licence in Hong Kong: Who Needs One?
- 4How to Open a Corporate Bank Account in Hong Kong for a New Company
- 5How to Register an Overseas Company in Hong Kong (Form NN1)
- 6Registered Non-Hong Kong Company: Annual Return and Fees
The short answer
No. Setting up or owning shares in a Hong Kong company does not give any right to live or work in Hong Kong. A non-resident founder normally needs permission from the Immigration Department, for example under the Investment as Entrepreneurs route or a talent scheme, and must show a real business.
Key point Company law and immigration law are separate. The Companies Registry does not issue visas, and the Immigration Department decides on entry and stay.
Routes to know about (headline only)
- Investment as Entrepreneurs (General Employment Policy): for people who want to establish or join a business in Hong Kong. Applicants usually submit a three-year business plan and financial forecasts, and the Department weighs whether the business suits Hong Kong's economy. Start-ups backed by a government-supported programme may be looked at favourably.
- Talent and professional schemes: including the General Employment Policy for professionals, the Top Talent Pass Scheme, the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme, and schemes for mainland talents and technology talent.
- Capital Investment Entrant Scheme: a wealth-based route with a net worth requirement and an investment in a specified portfolio; thresholds are set by the Immigration Department and change, so confirm them on its website.
- Visa-free visits: many nationalities can enter for visits of 7 to 180 days, but visiting is not the same as working.
Family Some visa holders may bring a spouse and children under 18, subject to meeting financial and housing requirements.
Next steps Rules, quotas and thresholds change (schemes described as at November 2026). Confirm directly with the Immigration Department or take immigration advice before relying on any scheme.
Legal basis and sources
The law
- Immigration Ordinance (Cap. 115)
General information for business owners, not legal, tax or professional advice. Rules change, so check the sources or ask a licensed professional before you act.
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