How to get a Hong Kong Youth Mobility Scheme visa (for all nationalities)

Visa applications are never fun, but if you know what steps to anticipate, it doesn’t have to be complicated.

In this chapter, we will walk through where to fill out the application form, what supporting documents to gather, and how to submit everything.

1. Check the quota

First, you may want to first confirm with the Hong Kong mission of your jurisdiction that the annual WHV quota for your nationality has not yet been reached. Here are the annual quotas for a few nationalities:

• Australia: 5,000
• Canada: 200
• Ireland: 200
• New Zealand: 400
• United Kingdom: 1,000
• Other nationalities

Annual quotas do not change significantly year to year, if at all.

If there are no more available spots left, unfortunately you will have to wait until the following program year to apply. For the best chances, apply early in the program year, as applications are processed on a first come first serve basis.

2. Start the online application form

You can start your application online on the GovHK website.

At some point in the application, you will be asked to provide “Particulars of Referee in Hong Kong”. This is optional. If you don’t have any contacts in Hong Kong, then skip this step.

3. Attach supporting documents

Once you complete the application form, you will need to gather and upload some supporting documents. These include:

• A recent photograph of at least 1200×1600 pixels. Make sure that the file is in JPEG format and not larger than 5 MB.
• Passport identity pages
• Your Hong Kong ID card (skip if you don’t have one)
• Proof of savings (must be in or translated to English)
• Your return/onward ticket OR extra savings sufficient for the purchase of one later on. If you choose the latter option, you can upload the same document as what you used for proof of savings.
• Proof of adequate travel medical insurance. Have questions? Read insurance FAQs.
• Other documents, if you need to attach anything else

Once you’ve fully reviewed everything, you can sign and submit your application.

4. Await approval

You will likely not receive any sort of immediate confirmation of your submission, but don’t worry. In general, an acknowledgement letter will be emailed to you within 7 working days. The letter will contain a QR code that you can use to track your application.

If you do not receive any notification from the Immigration Department within 1 month, you can call the Immigration Enquiry Hotline (852) 2824 6111 or email [email protected] for assistance.

If your application is approved, you will be invited to pay the visa fee via a web page link. After successful payment, you will be able to download or print the e-visa yourself (source). You should plan to enter Hong Kong within 3 months of receiving your WHV. It will be valid for 12 months from the day of your initial entry into Hong Kong. We wish you the best of luck!