General Information on Chinese Nationality

The Nationality Law of the People's Republic of China (CNL) has been applied in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) since 1 July 1997 pursuant to Article 18 of and Annex III to the Basic Law, and interpreted in accordance with the “Explanations of Some Questions by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress concerning the implementation of the Nationality Law of the People’s Republic of China in the HKSAR”.

A “Chinese citizen” is a person of Chinese nationality under the CNL. Hong Kong residents who are of Chinese descent and were born in the Chinese territories (including Hong Kong), or persons who satisfy the criteria laid down in the CNL as having Chinese nationality, are Chinese nationals.

The CNL, as promulgated and explained by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, provides for the acquisition, loss and restoration of Chinese nationality.

Nationality Law of the People's Republic of China and the “Explanations”

Declaration of Change of Nationality

Hong Kong residents who are Chinese citizens holding foreign passports will have to make a declaration of change of nationality to the HKSAR Immigration Department if they want to be regarded as foreign nationals.

Naturalisation as a Chinese National

Foreign nationals or stateless persons can apply for naturalisation as a Chinese national provided that they are Hong Kong residents and meet the requirements under CNL.

Renunciation of Chinese Nationality

Chinese citizens can apply to renounce their Chinese nationality provided that they comply with certain requirements..

Restoration of Chinese Nationality

Foreign nationals who once held Chinese nationality can apply for restoration of Chinese nationality.

Statistics on Nationality-related Applications

Frequently Asked Questions about Chinese Nationality