From April 8, the application for extension of stay for the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme can be done online, but the submission method has changed, and the required materials still need to be prepared.

First, it is important to clarify that the Hong Kong government's intention in implementing the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme is to attract talent to contribute to Hong Kong's development, rather than just selling you a status. Therefore, even if you cannot settle in Hong Kong, it is still necessary to visit regularly, and it is recommended to check in at least once every one or two months.

Although the first renewal of the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme is generally more lenient, usually granting at least one year, to obtain permanent residency later, the time spent outside Hong Kong should not exceed 183 days. Otherwise, a written explanation to the director is required, so it is very necessary to check in at least once every six months. If you live in Guangdong Province, you should also come to check in from time to time. If the number of days spent in Hong Kong is only a few, the director will definitely ask for the reason during the renewal process. When renewing, the written explanation for not residing in Hong Kong and the plan for staying in Hong Kong must also be emotionally appealing.

The two main points that the director focuses on during the renewal of the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme are: first, whether you have settled in Hong Kong; second, your contribution to Hong Kong.

When the director of the Immigration Department considers whether you are settled in Hong Kong, they do not only look at the duration of your stay in Hong Kong, but also comprehensively assess based on the applicant's habitual residence, work, family members, and other circumstances. Specific situations include:

1,The reasons, duration, and frequency of your absence from Hong Kong (even if you are not working in Hong Kong, remember to check in often!)
2,Whether you have a habitual residence in Hong Kong (for example, renting a place in Hong Kong while working in Shenzhen);
3,Whether you are employed by a company based in Hong Kong (it is also easier to explain if a Hong Kong company sends you to work in the mainland);
4,The location of your main family members (spouse and minor children). (For example, many applicants' children receive education in Hong Kong).

Generally speaking, the materials required for renewal include:
1,Renewal application form
2,Copies of the applicant's Hong Kong identity card and travel documents for Hong Kong and Macau
3,Proof of employment in Hong Kong (including income), MPF records, tax returns (if available, renewal is much easier)

Your contribution to Hong Kong is most simply and directly shown by working in Hong Kong, contributing to the MPF and paying taxes. If you are hardly in Hong Kong, you should also strengthen your ties with Hong Kong, such as starting a company and operating it or doing some part-time work.
If you have not resided in Hong Kong, you must also explain the reasons, and any other requirements from the director that you cannot provide must be explained one by one. Finally, you need to write a detailed plan for the next 12 months.

If you have not worked or resided in Hong Kong, you still need to prepare in advance for renewal. Do not wait until the last minute. You can consult experienced friends, and do not provide nothing during the renewal process, as the director may want to give you a way out but cannot.