Privacy Policy

Introduction

Meridian Gate is committed to protecting your privacy and personal data. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect information about our clients and website visitors, in accordance with Hong Kong's Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance and professional solicitor obligations. We recognize that immigration matters involve sensitive personal information, and we treat all data with appropriate care and confidentiality.

This policy applies to information we collect through our website, during consultations, and throughout our professional engagement. By using our services or website, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Privacy Policy.

Information We Collect

Personal Information

We collect personal information that you provide directly to us when you inquire about our services, engage us for immigration assistance, or use our website. This information may include your name, contact details (email address, phone number, postal address), nationality, passport information, employment history, educational qualifications, family relationships, and financial information relevant to visa applications.

Application Documents

When we assist with immigration applications, we collect and process various documents including identification documents, employment contracts, business plans, financial statements, relationship certificates, academic credentials, and other supporting materials required for your specific visa category.

Website Usage Data

Our website may collect technical information automatically, including IP addresses, browser type, device information, pages visited, time spent on pages, and referring websites. We use cookies and similar technologies to enhance user experience and analyze website usage. For detailed information about cookies, please see our Cookie Policy.

How We Use Your Information

We use collected information for the following purposes:

• Providing immigration law services and preparing visa applications
• Communicating with you about your matter and application progress
• Liaising with the Hong Kong Immigration Department on your behalf
• Maintaining records required by professional regulations
• Responding to your inquiries and providing customer support
• Improving our services and website functionality
• Complying with legal obligations and professional requirements
• Sending relevant information about immigration law updates (with your consent)

Legal Basis for Processing

We process your personal data based on the following legal grounds:

• Contractual Necessity: Processing required to provide immigration services you have engaged us for
• Legal Obligation: Compliance with professional regulations and legal requirements
• Legitimate Interests: Operating our business, improving services, and protecting our legal rights
• Consent: Where you have provided explicit consent for specific processing activities

Data Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell or rent your personal information to third parties. We may share your information only in the following circumstances:

• Immigration Department: Submitting applications and responding to queries as part of our services
• Professional Advisors: When necessary for providing comprehensive service (with your consent)
• Service Providers: Trusted third parties who assist us (such as secure document storage providers), under strict confidentiality agreements
• Legal Requirements: When required by law, court order, or regulatory authority
• Business Transfers: In the event of a merger or acquisition, with assurances of continued privacy protection

Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your personal information against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. These measures include:

• Secure encrypted storage for electronic documents
• Access controls limiting who can view client information
• Encrypted email communications for sensitive information
• Regular security assessments and updates
• Secure physical storage for paper documents
• Staff training on data protection and confidentiality

While we take reasonable precautions, no method of transmission or storage is completely secure. We cannot fully prevent unauthorized access by third parties, though we maintain commercially reasonable safeguards.

Data Retention

We retain your personal information for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this policy and to comply with our legal and professional obligations. Immigration application files are typically retained for seven years after conclusion of the matter, as required by professional regulations. Website usage data is retained for shorter periods, generally not exceeding two years. You may request earlier deletion of your data, subject to our legal obligations to retain certain records.

Your Rights

Under Hong Kong's Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance, you have the following rights regarding your personal information:

• Access: You can request access to the personal data we hold about you
• Correction: You can request correction of inaccurate or incomplete information
• Erasure: You can request deletion of your data, subject to legal retention requirements
• Data Portability: You can request your data in a structured, commonly used format
• Object to Processing: You can object to certain types of processing
• Withdraw Consent: Where processing is based on consent, you can withdraw it
• Lodge Complaint: You can file a complaint with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data

To exercise these rights, please contact us using the details provided below. We will respond to your request within one month.

Cookies and Tracking

Our website uses cookies and similar tracking technologies. Essential cookies are necessary for website functionality and cannot be disabled. Optional cookies help us analyze website usage and improve user experience. You can control cookie preferences through your browser settings or our cookie consent banner. For detailed information, please review our Cookie Policy.

Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these external sites. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of any third-party websites you visit.

Children's Privacy

Our services are not directed to individuals under 18 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If we become aware that we have collected information from a child without parental consent, we will take steps to delete such information.

International Data Transfers

Your personal information is primarily stored and processed in Hong Kong. If we transfer data outside Hong Kong, we ensure appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your information in accordance with Hong Kong privacy standards.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. When we make material changes, we will update the "Last Updated" date at the top of this page and notify existing clients by email where appropriate. We encourage you to review this policy periodically.

Contact Information

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or wish to exercise your data protection rights, please contact us:

For complaints about our handling of personal data, you may also contact the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data, Hong Kong.