Nationality and Hong Kong residency

HKSAR and BN(O) passports, German naturalisation and what a change of nationality means in Hong Kong.

Which passport counts for what

• HKSAR and BN(O) passports both allow visa-free short stays in the Schengen area (Consulate).
• Both can be used for the Working Holiday Scheme if you ordinarily live in Hong Kong (agreement).
• For a national visa the Consulate needs your Hong Kong identity card as proof of residence; see Visa and consulate.

German naturalisation

After 5 years of lawful residence, with B1 German and secure income, you can apply for naturalisation (§ 10 Nationality Act). The shortened 3-year route was abolished on 30 October 2025. Since 27 June 2024 Germany no longer requires you to give up your previous nationality.

The Hong Kong side

The Immigration Department (ImmD) explains that, under the Chinese Nationality Law as applied in Hong Kong, residents of Chinese descent born in Chinese territories are Chinese nationals even if they hold a foreign passport. To be treated as a foreign national in Hong Kong they must make a Declaration of Change of Nationality (fee HK$145) (ImmD).

• Once approved, you are no longer regarded as a Chinese national, must surrender your HKSAR passport, and your right of abode may be affected.
• Right of abode as a non-Chinese permanent resident can be lost after a continuous absence of 36 months or more once you are no longer ordinarily resident in Hong Kong (ImmD).

How German naturalisation affects your Chinese nationality and HKSAR passport if you do not make a declaration is not covered by German law. Ask ImmD (nationality FAQ) before you decide. This page is general information, not legal advice.