The Basic Law (BL) is the constitutional document of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). It enshrines within a legal document the important concepts of “One Country, Two Systems.” Under this principle, socialist policies of mainland China are not practiced in Hong Kong.

The Basic Law provides the guarantees to maintain Hong Kong’s existing way of life, including socioeconomic development, the rights and duties of Hong Kong people, the rule of law and other areas.

The Basic Law was put into effect July 1, 1997. 

Q1:  Has there been an influx of Mainland residents coming to live in Hong Kong?

A1: No. Entry into the HKSAR from other parts of China is subject to strict immigration controls in the same way it was before the reunification. Mainland residents wishing to settle in Hong Kong do so under the One-Way Permit Scheme, which has a daily quota for arrivals. (BL Article 22)

Q2: Is Chinese the only official language allowed under the Basic Law?

A2: No, in addition to Chinese, English is also an official language widely used by the executive authorities, the legislature and the judiciary, as well as the legal, professional and business sectors in Hong Kong. (BL Article 9)