As a global business, your company is likely interacting with customers in many different locations. But what about the citizens of Hong Kong—are they exempt from the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation?
If you are a company with customers in Europe, you may be wondering if those customers in Hong Kong are subject to the new EU data protection law, known as the Liechtenstein ETIAS. Here, we will explore the answer to this question and provide you with some tips on how to ensure citizenship exemption for your customers in Hong Kong.
Applying For Liechtenstein ETIAS From Hong Kong
If you are a citizen of Hong Kong and you want to apply for the Liechtenstein ETIAS, you will need to visit the Liechtenstein Embassy in Beijing. The application process will vary depending on your nationality, but generally you will need to provide some basic information such as your passport number, date of birth, and proof of residence in Liechtenstein for the past six months. You will also need to provide a letter of invitation from a Liechtenstein registered business or individual. After submitting all of your paperwork, you should expect to receive an email confirming your application has been received and is being processed. It can take up to six months for your application to be processed, so be sure to submit all of your documents well in advance. Once your application is processed, you will be issued with a visa that will allow you to enter Liechtenstein.
Reasons You Should Get An Liechtenstein ETIAS
If you are a citizen of Hong Kong, Liechtenstein has now created an ETIAS program that may allow you to travel to Liechtenstein visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180 day period. If you are traveling for business or tourism, you may be able to stay for an additional 90 days. The purpose of the ETIAS is to screen visitors for terrorist activity and to prevent illegal immigration and irregular migration. The program is administered by the Liechtenstein police.
To qualify for the ETIAS, you must provide information such as your full name, date of birth, passport number, country of birth, address, telephone number, and email address. You will also be required to submit a photograph upload and answer several questions regarding your travel plans and reasons for visiting Liechtenstein.
The Liechtenstein police will review your application and decide whether or not you qualify for the visa-free travel. If you are approved, you will be notified by email. If you have any questions about the application process or eligibility, please contact the Liechtenstein embassy in your country of residence or visit the website .
The ETIAS is currently only available to citizens of Hong Kong. If you do not have a citizen visa-free status with Liechtenstein, you will need to apply for a tourist visa at a German embassy or consulate before applying for the ETIAS.
Things To Consider Before Coming To Liechtenstein
Since Liechtenstein is not a member of the European Union, it has its own passporting system which allows Hong Kong citizens to visit Liechtenstein without obtaining a visa. Liechtenstein also participates in the Schengen Agreement, which allows passport-free travel for citizens of 26 European countries.
There are few things that you need to consider before traveling to Liechtenstein. VISA requirements will depend on your nationality and whether or not you are visiting for business or leisure. For those visiting for pleasure, there is no need for a visa if your trip does not exceed 90 days. You will need proof of onward travel (either a plane ticket or hotel reservation) and proof of financial stability (a bank statement).
Liechtenstein is a tax haven, meaning that it offers some preferential tax treatment to its residents. This includes a low rate of corporate tax (at 0.5% compared to Switzerland’s standard rate of 20%) and income tax at just 1%. Income from foreign sources is also exempt from tax.
Due to its location, Liechtenstein is well-placed for those interested in skiing and hiking in the Alps. There are also numerous cultural attractions, including the Schloss Vaduz Castle, home to the Crown Prince of Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein ETIAS For Citizens Of Hong Kong – FAQ
What is the Liechtenstein ETIAS?
The Liechtenstein ETIAS is a biometric passport system that allows citizens of Hong Kong to travel to and stay in Liechtenstein visa-free. The passport system was launched in March 2017 and is currently available to Chinese citizens only.
How can I apply for the Liechtenstein ETIAS?
Applicants must enrol in the online application system, which can be accessed through the website of the Liechtenstein diplomatic mission in Beijing. Citizens of Taiwan and Macau are not eligible to apply for the ETIAS passport.
The application process requires applicants to upload a copy of their valid passport, citizenship certificate or identification card, as well as two recent photographs. Applicants must also provide their full name, date of birth, nationality, place of residence (country), contact information (phone number, email address, etc.), and answer questions about their background and criminal history. Applicants who submit incomplete or false information will be refused entry into Liechtenstein and may be subject to legal action.
Once applications are complete, applicants will receive a notification indicating whether their application has been accepted or declined. If an application is declined, applicants can reapply using the same materials after they have been amended to meet the requirements of the application process. There is no fee associated with applying for the ETIAS passport.