The Immigration Department has launched an electronic visa from 12.28 to save time for citizens applying for foreign domestic helper visas and extending their stay

The Immigration Department will launch an electronic visa application service starting next Tuesday (28th). Applicants can apply for, pay and receive an electronic visa through the Immigration Department app in a "one-stop" process. The electronic visa will replace the paper visa at that time.

Many families in Hong Kong have hired foreign domestic helpers. Employers can apply for foreign domestic helpers' visa or extension of stay online. Employers can also use the Immigration Department app to scan the encrypted QR code on the electronic visa to verify and identify the information of foreign domestic helpers; After the application procedures are made electronically, applicants can also save mailing time, avoid going to the office in person, and reduce crowd contact.

The Immigration Department will launch the electronic visa service in phases. The first phase will be opened next Tuesday to cover all kinds of applications for extension of stay, as well as foreign domestic helpers, "Non-local graduates stay in Hong Kong/return to Hong Kong employment arrangements" and "Import to China" The “Second Generation Program for Hong Kong Permanent Residents” accounts for 80% of the annual visa applications of the Immigration Department. The remaining 20% ​​of the visa categories will be promoted in the second half of next year. Applicants can continue to apply in person or by post, but the Immigration Department will only Issuing an electronic visa.

It will be more convenient for citizens to apply for foreign domestic helper visas in the future. Under electronic application, citizens can fill in the application form online. The system will store the form data for 14 days for easy filling anytime and anywhere. After completing the application, the foreign domestic helper will get an electronic copy. The visa contains personal data and conditions of stay. Employers can scan the QR code on the electronic visa through the Immigration Department app to verify the information and verify the authenticity. The QR code is encrypted by the computer server of the Immigration Department and cannot be read by other mobile applications. Access; electronic application also covers the "Smart Helper Easy" function, which is convenient for employers to apply for extension of stay and other applications for foreign domestic helpers.

Assistant Chief Immigration Officer (Information System) Development Xu Yiling of the Immigration Department said that after the visa application is made electronically, applicants do not need to apply by post, which effectively saves time. In the epidemic situation, applicants are also free from going to the office, reducing contact with others, and protecting Public health.

Xu Yiling also pointed out that when non-permanent residents go through government formalities, they must verify the conditions and duration of stay. The Immigration Department has notified all government departments that they can verify their identity through the QR code on the e-visa. Immigration personnel can display their electronic visas and then go through immigration formalities after scanning the QR code.

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