the point of my post (im replying you again, broke my rule) was about HK visa runs, it seems they are still doable. Therefore, what is the problem if an FT chooses to get his documents in order BEFORE coming ? Why does working legally irk you so much? Can you imagine the consequences of working illegally in ANY country? In the UK, it would mean deportation for certain.

The way I read it , San Mig, is that it's only achievable, if you have your foreign expert's certificate to show them from the previous year...but...

Working illegally? I'm annoyed about this one- it was Foxy Poster who first championed the advantages of that way of working- he dumped the idea for all to sniff over- I rush in to lend him my support and now he's just leaving me to it- Ask Foxy Poster please, it's his turn, hahaha.