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Are you Eligible for the Visa Options to Hong Kong Passport Holders?

Writer's picture: Charlene TanCharlene Tan

Visa Options for Hong Kong - Update


Two new pathways to permanent residency for eligible Hong Kong and BNO passport holders will open to applications from 5 March 2022, through two new visa streams:

  • Subclass 191 - Hong Kong (Regional) Stream - for primary visa holders who resided in Australia for a continuous period of at least three years immediately prior to applying and lived, worked, and studied exclusively in a regional area designated during the time while holding an eligible visa.

  • Subclass 189 - Hong Kong stream - is for primary visa holders who resided in Australia for a continuous period of at least four years immediately preceding the application and hold an eligible visa during that time.


The implementation of these permanent visa streams will follow the Australian Government's commitment in July 2020 to provide new opportunities for Hong Kong passport holders to stay in Australia, with a pathway to permanent residency. In August 2021, these provisions were extended to holders of British (Overseas) (BNO) passports.


Eligible Hong Kong and BNO passport holders will be able to apply for one of these permanent visas, depending on where they have lived and worked in Australia. The applicant must comply with the basic conditions of their eligible visa.


For individuals with an eligible visa that has been extended for an additional five years from 9 July 2020, the time spent in Australia on that visa before 9 July 2020 will count towards the time required necessary for permanent residence.


Details on how to apply for a permanent resident visa under these arrangements will be made available on the Department of Home Affairs website in due course.



Unsure? Feel free to book in a consultation for detailed advice and steps!


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